The matter contained in the following pages having
been left at our disposal, we feel impelled by a strong
sense of Christian duty and love of humanity, to bring it
before the public in its present form. We believe that too
much importance cannot be attached to this subject, and
that no false delicacy should prevent thorough inquiry and
investigation upon a question in which the present and future
welfare of multitudes is involved. As a people, who profess
to be looking for the coming of the Lord, and preparing for
translation into his holy presence, perhaps we have too long
kept silent on this great source of physical, mental and moral
pollution, and a high duty and responsibility remains to be
discharged in this matter.
We would therefore earnestly appeal to parents and
guardians to give this work a thorough and judicious
circulation. The flood-gates of corruption are being opened
upon the world; and in no way, perhaps, is Satan more
speedily accomplishing the utter ruin of a fallen and fast
degenerating race than through the channel of unchastity and
licentiousness. In the following pages the evil is fully pointed
out: and to many, we doubt not, they will also appear as a
friendly hand pointing out the remedy and the way of escape.
Again we say, therefore, let the work be faithfully circulated.
It would perhaps be well for every
