THE most extensively used intoxicant in Russia is called vodka. Some years ago the minister of finance conceived the idea of having the government take over and manage the manufacture and sale of intoxicants in the Russian Empire. The income was so great that it was considered a big financial stroke. Since the government was in the business, it was only natural that drinking should have been encouraged; for the more liquor was used, the greater the revenue. But it soon became very apparent that the degeneracy of the Russian people was threatening not only a general decay but also irretrievable ruin. The attention of the czar was called to the matter some months ago, and prohibitory orders were issued. Travelers who have visited sections of Russia when vodka was freely used and dispensed, and who are now passing through the same regions, say that "the towns have become more orderly, and the people save fifty-five per cent of their earnings which formerly were spent for drink. They have also increased their earning capacity through sobriety. There is such a change in that region that the country is hardly recognizable." There is absolutely no ground for continuing the use of strong drink, but there is much to be said against it. If it were not for the influence of the big liquor trusts, and the money they spend in blinding the public to the evils of strong drink, one of the great props would be taken away from this, the greatest of all sources of debauchery and ruin. And if men could be taught, through the power of the gospel, to get rid of their depraved appetites for such unnatural things as alcoholic drinks, the foundation would be completely removed.