Page:Letters to Squire Pedant in the East.pdf/61

54

SPEECH FOR BOYS. Of which your observation, gives daily demonstration;

Who see the ruination, distress and desolation,

The open violation of moral obligation,

The wretched habitation without accommodation,

Or any regulation for common sustentation,

A scene of deprivation unequalled in creation;

A frequent desecration of Sabbath ordination

The crime and depredation, defying legislation

The awful profanation of common conversation

The mental aberration and dire infatuation,

With every sad gradation, to maniac desperation.

Ye who, with consternation, behold this devastation,

And utter condemnation on all inebriation,

Why sanction its duration? or show disapprobation

Of any combination for its extermination?

We deem a declaration that offers no temptation,

By any palliation of this abomination,

The only sure foundation for its utter extirpation;

And under this persuasion hold no communication

With noxious emanation of brewer's fermentation,

Or poisonous preparation of spirit's distillation,

Nor any vain libation producing stimulation.

To this determination, we call consideration,

And without hesitation, invite co-operation;

Not doubting imitation, will raise your estimation,

And, by continuation afford you consolation;

For, in participation with this association,

You may, by mediation, insure the preservation

Of future generations, from all contamination."

And may each indication of such regeneration,

Be the theme of exultation, till its final consummation.