Note and Comment

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Aug 10, 1911

A Destroyer of Girlhood

THIS is the charge which Judge K. M. Landis, of Chicago, brings against theaters. In addition he says:—

Much has been said and written of the ways of these five-cent theaters, and of their dangers and demoralizing influences. But the wildest stuff that ever has been written or said has not got beyond the merest fringe of the real facts.

It is to be deplored that so many who pass as Christian people are found among the patrons of these playhouses. The theater, the ballroom, the card-party, the circus, and many other popular amusements contribute their full share of evil influence in lessening moral integrity and lowering the moral standard. Some of these amusements may occupy a different place in the scale than others, but together they form a connected series, a chain, the influence of which is to lead men to plunge into the mad whirl of sensuous pleasure and forget God. We may perhaps expect little else of the world. Surely to those who profess the joy of Christian life and service, these pleasures should make no appeal.