Moreover, the confirmed toper can read the pamphlet, not only without umbrage, but with interest ; for there is an intensity, a directness ol statement in its style w*hich hold the reader, even to this day, with t^he simple art of its literary merit. Besides, there appears running through its pages a quaint humor, which no doubt had much to do with gaining its popularity throughout the length and breadth of the land. A unique and ingenious feature of the essay is the author's

BIRTH AT MOREAU OF THE TEMPERANCE REFORMATION. Il9

'" Moral and Physical Thermometer," which forms its frontispiece. On the ascending scale, " Strong Beer " is placed in the lowest and '' Water " at the highest degree, with remarks indicating improving mental and physical conditions in the rising course. On the descending scale, " Punch " occupies the highest while " Rum day and night " is found at the lowest place, accompanied between points by a fearfully intensifying array of vices, diseases and penalties. In this connection might be quoted the author's interpretation of a familiar myth : " The fable of Prometheus, on whose liver a vulture was said to prey constantly, as a punishment for his stealing fire from heaven, was intended to illustrate the painful efifects of ardent spirits upon that organ of the body." Here is a curious anticipation of the modern gold cure, as it took form in the fertile intellect of Dr. Rush : " The association of the idea of ardent spirits, with a painful or disagreeable impression upon some part of the body, has sometimes cured the love of strong drink. * * * This appeal to that operation of the human mind, which obliges it to associate ideas, accidentally or otherwise combined, for the cure ol vice, is very ancient.