Fraternally yours,
JOSEPH AYER, Jr.
Notice by Dr. Alcott, Editor of the Library of Health.
"A disquisition on the evils of using Tobacco. By Orin Fowler, A. M. Second Edition. This pamphlet finds favor, * * * *. While we have the kindliest feelings towards those who chew this disgusting substance, we hold its use, in every form, in the most unqualified contempt. We care not to whom the remark may apply, whether he be farmer, mechanic, lawyer, doctor, minister, judge or president; but if in the light which Mr. Fowler has shed on the subject, any man should continue to smoke or chew tobacco, or take snuff, public opinion ought to frown him out of the pale of all civilized society. He that will contribute in any way to a tax upon this nation of $25,000,000 a year for such stuff, may well be set down as a bad citizen, unless he does it in ignorance."
DISQUISITION.
In this age of benevolent action, when much is being done to drive away the darkness and delusions of many generations, and to diffuse light and truth through the earth; it excites the liveliest joy in every philanthropic bosom to witness the triumphant results already achieved. Recent efforts to banish the use of intoxicating drinks, have brought well nigh half the civilized world to a solemn pause: and the work of reformation in this matter of spirit-drinking has gone so far, and is yet making such sure progress, that many are rejoicing in the lively hope that the day is nigh, even at the doors, when drunkenness, with her burning legion of evils, will cease from the earth; and the gospel of the grace of God will have free course and be glorified, and the whole family of man become temperate, holy and happy. The God of our salvation hasten that day apace; that our eyes may see it, and rejoice and be glad in it, before we go to the grave.
But ere that day shall fully come, there is much land to be possessed. Many a battle must yet be fought,—many a victory must yet be won. Much light must yet be poured forth,—much darkness must yet be driven away. The world is not yet half reformed. The majority in the best portions of the earth—in this country even—are on the side of free indulgence in every thing that pleases the appetite.