RANDOM THOUGHTS ON HUNTING. 279 



that amusements that employ the senses, are need- 

 ful to restore their worn bodies, and revive their 

 wasted spirits that they are happier and better for 

 the relaxation that follows the day of labor. It is 

 with the same persons, and from the same mistaken 

 views, that w r e find the severities of the Jewish 

 sabbath ingrafted, without warrant from the Scrip- 

 tures, on the Christian polity. 



Instead of proceeding on these false assump- 

 tions : 1st, that society can dispense with amuse 

 ments; 2d, that all amusements are a sin, how 

 much wiser, how much worthier of those whose 

 lives are exemplary, that they should encourage 

 by their countenance such amusements as are 

 innocent and elegant dancing, for example and 

 by this countenance, preserve it as it should be, the 

 handmaid of modesty and grace. 



Instead of purchasing up theatres, to convert 

 them into churches (which only causes new theatres 

 to be built), it would be wiser, it seems to me 

 (since every civilized Christian community has 

 indulged, and will doubtless continue to indulge, 

 in theatrical representations), to reform these exhibi- 

 tions, until they should present nothing to the 

 public, but what the most scrupulous delicacy 

 would approve ! How far this may be done, will 

 be evident to those who will be at the trouble of 



