MANUTAHI.

Patea Mail, Volume III, Issue 248, 25 August 1877, Page 2

MANUTAHI.

[FROM A CORRESPONDENT.] August 23. At our Debating and Amusement Society last night, a warm debate on “Total Abstinence v. Moderate Drinking,” was opened by Mr Guthrie on the side of total abstinence. Mr J. Ginger opened on the other side. Most of the usual arguments were advanced pro and con. Messrs Dawson, Christie, Hamilton, Tregear, and Tulloch supported total abstainers.

Users, but not abusers, were represented by Messrs Henderson, D. Ginger, and Lee. t Nothing very new or startling 'was adduced on either side. ‘ ?: (

• Abstainers argued alcohol -lyjirt&l and unnecessary, except, in extreme’'cases. Army ' of-, drunks' -al waya ,; recruited-' from ranks of moderate drinkers.

Moderate drinkers could not see why innocent pleasure should be given up because a few could not control their taste.

One speaker caused considerable amuse - ment by saying—“ Why could we not as well abstain from every other evil ? Why .not be pure, and avoid every other excess ? It can’t be done, and I’m not going to try 1” ' ,

The abstainers had it, both in weight of argument and numbers, and total abstinence declared carried.

Some capital songs and recitations followed.

Next , subject will be “ Why manhood suffrage should not become law”—by,Mr J. Ginger.

Vote of thanks to Mr Foreman, who filled the chair, finished the evening.