LOOKING AFTER THE MORALS OF THE PEOPLE.
[I SEND the following article from the Owen County Journal, not so much for its practical bearing on the subject, as to show how the minds of the people are drifting, and how the way is being prepared for the mark of the beast to be enforced. D. H. OBERHOLTZER.] This community has been considerably agitated for several days over the promulgation of an order by the Board of Trustees, closing all places of business on the Sabbath day [Sunday]. The order closes drug stores, meat shops, bakeries, livery stables, and, in fact, all places which have been accustomed to opening on Sunday for profit or the accommodation of customers. There appears to be a division of sentiment as to the necessity for such an order at this time, or even of its propriety. Without undertaking to discuss the merits of the order we will say that, while we consider it the duty of every citizen to properly observe the Sabbath, there are circumstances surrounding many individuals which render a strict observance of the day a little inconvenient. Take, for instance, the day laborer who is engaged in secular employment the entire week. When he returns to his home on Saturday night, tired and worked down, he feels more like resting than he does like going to the store or grocery. But this order compels him to go or do without what may be necessary articles. We don't see where a little indulgence in this direction would desecrate the Sabbath or hurt the individual in the least. We are in favor of unlimited freedom of the conscience, and decidedly opposed to any legislation after the spirit of the Connecticut Blue Laws. It is a little strange that our town Board should be so impressed that it is their duty to look after the morals of the people, when at the same time they can overlook many other necessary things which they might do, and which would be conducive to the health and comfort of the citizens. What has become of the fire ladder furore, that stock ordinance, that cleaning up ordinance, etc., which were enacted, paid for, and now remain as dead as a door nail? Such laws as these would be of practical benefit, and if the Board desires to earn its pay, here is the proper field to work in.