Texas in 1850. By Melinda Rankin. Page: 26 of 196

TEXAS IN 1850.

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An independence, more decisive of noble purpose
and future good, than was ever achieved upon the battle
plain, is that which places a people beyond the reach
of the most formidable enemy that ever yet invaded
the human family. Despotism may enslave the body,
and the mind still retain its freedom; but intemperance
subjects its votaries to the entire dominion of body and
soul -debases man to a brute, and most effectually
destroys the best works of creation. A view of the
destructive consequences of intemperance upon a large
scale, must necessarily strike every philanthropic soul
with horror, and stimulate him in the use of the most
efficient measures for the prevention of an evil so deleterious
to the best interests of a country.
The temperance cause, as now instituted, seems better
adapted to effect its object, than any system which
has been hitherto adopted. The order has been objected
to by some, on the ground of its being a secret association,
but, as its object and effects are so apparent,
the most scrupulous objector cannot regard it to be
treasonable or subversive of public good. Secret societies
are dangerous only when their design is not understood.
As the cause of humanity, as the cause of everything
to which pertains human happiness, is that which
would drive from a country that piratical invaderintemperance.
To succeed effectually, it will be necessary
to imbue public sentiment with the impressive stamp,
which shall render the use of ardent spirit so entirely
unpopular as to discontinue its use among those who
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