Incalculable Loss by Grand Jury of Philadelphia

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · May 13, 1886

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 12, No. 18.

Incalculable Loss.

By Grand Jury of Philadelphia

IN the performance of our duty, we have been deeply impressed with the fact that four-fifths, if not nine-tenths, of the six thousand paupers and criminals that fill our public institutions are in their present sad and deplorable condition through the influence of intoxicating liquors. If we look beyond these institutions to determine the cost of the liquor traffic in this city; if we estimate the increase of the police force necessary to meet its requirements, the degradation emanating from the infamous pest-houses which it sustains, the idleness which it fosters, the wealth which it squanders and destroys, the poverty and disgrace which it entails, the burdens and expenses which it lays upon our courts of justice; and if we add to these the perpetual support of so large a number of paupers and criminals—the loss we suffer is incalculable.—Grand Jury of Philadelphia.