The Reflections of a Good Man

• If I drink what is called moderately, I may easily be led, like many others, to drink to excess; but if I drink none at all there cannot be the least possible danger.

• If I take a little, others who follow my example, being weaker of not so careful as myself, may be led on to drunkenness; but if I entirely abstain, I set an example which is safe for everybody to follow.

• If I but drink a little, and keep a small stock for my friends in the way of hospitality, it will cost a considerable sum of money; but abstinence is a cheap system and tends to promote economy among all over whom it may exercise any influence.

• If I drink intoxicating liquor at all, I virtually praise the liquor; but if I abstain I raise a decided protest against it.

• If I am ever so moderate, I am identified with the drinking party and the drinking system; but if I abstain I connect myself with those who are working to save the country from its greatest foe.

• If I take my glass, I cannot heartily reprove the drunkard, nor recommend my own example to him with effect; but if I am a teetotaller, I can do so with confidence and a hope of success.

• If I take but a little, I am one remove from perfect sobriety; but if I take nothing stronger than water, milk, or tea, I shall always be perfectly sober.

• For these reasons I have made up my mind to be a teetotal abstainer.