TEMPERANCE.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2332, 19 March 1892, Page 2

TEMPERANCE.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —I see in your paper of yesterday (I.sth) an advertisement and a local about a Band of Hope meeting in the Presbyterian Church. As one strongly on the side of Prohibition, would you allow me space for a word or two. I have had some experience of such bands, and think them one of the surest means of firm victory over that sorest social evil that has ever affected society. Every Christian congregation should have such band of hope in good vigor as a branch of Christian operation among the community. It would be one way of taking a good hold on the whole juvenile generation of a place. Such bands, taken up with intelligence, tact, and perseverance, their success is sure. The overthrow of the liquor traffic depends on a political vote, and such bands of hope, well conducted, will greatly Influence that vote in any immediate contest, and in a few years make victory secure. They are one line of Christian training, and no mean one. To take part in them is what some boys and girls much need as an educating influence. Parents and those wishing well to a community ought to give them their encouragement. Their presence would add prestige to the meetings, and they well deserve the small pecuniary support your advertisement asks. I know well, from experience, how much such enterprises are hampered and hindered through want of a little monetary aid. Such things cannot be carried on in a spirited way without a few shillings now and again, and often one's own pocket is too light to afford it.—l am, etc., Prohibitionist. Temuka, March 16,1892.