XLVIII. The enemy in places of Amusement
" Gather the roses while you may,
Too soon, alas I they fade away."
1.Thus sings the poet, addressing the young. Gladly and heartily do I concur in the sentiment thus prettily expressed, as long at least, as the tender flower of innocence - the lily of purity - remains intact.
It is, and always has been, a pleasure to me to give pleasure to young people - to be instrumental in procuring for them innocent amusements. My heart rejoices when I see young folk merry and engaged in harmless play.
Bear this in mind, I pray you, when I utter a word of warning with regard to the danger of certain worldly amusements.
2. Very frequently does the enemy of innocence make his appearance in that favorite resort of young people - the ballroom or dance-hall.
That dancing is, as a rule, fraught with grave perils in regard to chastity, no sensible man will think of denying. I do not mean to say that dancing is in itself, and under all circumstances, a dangerous thing. On the
