What is prostitution, but a promiscuous intercourse; and what but promiscuous intercourse of the sexes does Mr. Shelley recommend? Man is to seek whatever is lovely—to remain no longer attached to one object than while he finds it convenient; and to change as often as his judgment or his caprice sets before him a "lovelier object." His theory is, that enjoyment alone should be aimed at; and that every man is at perfect liberty to pursue every variety of enjoyment. He says, indeed, towards the close of his note, "I by no means assert that the intercourse would be promiscuous;" but it is quite evident, whatever Mr. Shelley may choose to assert, that to this "it must come at last." The reasons against promiscuous intercourse he is able to perceive. The "relation of parent to child," which should render the sexual union of "long duration, and marked above all others with generosity and self-devotion," is the justification of the marriage laws; for the history of man sufficiently proves that, without an obligation, the great majority of fathers might abandon their children, as readily as they cast from their bosoms the deluded, trusting females, who have been the instruments of their pleasures. Look at the world! Does any gentle-
