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1. Because it is wrong in principle — a waste of time ; 

 and loss of labor. The God of Nature has given us 

 limited control over our offspring; necessity givesralike 

 control, over the violators of its laws. But personal 

 liberty is born with every child of Adam ; and is unal- 

 icnable^ with the above exceptions. We hold our per- 

 sonal liberty, by the same tenure, we hold our lives ; 

 and. we have no better authority for surrendering the 

 one ; than taking tlie other. 



2. Because it is unproductive. In nine cases out of 

 ten, enough is not obtained, to pay for time lost^ and ex- 

 pense of commitment. 



3. Because it is impolitic. It drives from the State^ 

 a large portion of our intelligent and enterprising popu- 

 lation : and population is wealth. " These are my rich- 

 e5," said the Roman, showing his children. This is the 

 class most exposed to hazards and losses ; on sea and 

 on land. And to this class, the world owes every thing 

 good or great. To this class we owe this great and good 

 land, in which we dwell. To this class civilization owes 

 all the improvements, which adorn and enrich the earth. 

 While the money-lender is calculating his interest, se- 

 curely ; sucking the life-blood of the borrower ; the en- 

 terprising man is spreading his canvass to the uncertain 

 winds ; or, opening new mines of wealth, to his coun- 

 try ; dignifying the spirit, which inhabits mortality. 



4. Because it is opposed to the principles of religion. 

 The prophet wrought a miracle to save from imprison- 

 ment, by a creditor, the two sons of the poor widow. 

 Our Saviour came " to proclaim liberty to the captives ; 

 and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.'''' 

 And, by a parable, he rebuked, and severely punished 

 too, the servant, who had committed his fellow to prison, 

 for debt. 



