Amelia heard this conversation as they slowly advanced, halting every moment for the crowd to give way, who were apparently unconscious of her identity with the speaker they had turned out to hear. She looked very much like other people, and they expected to see—an elephant. There was no little dissatisfaction and disappointment among curiosity seekers when she took her seat.
Deacon Brewster rose and addressed them briefly. "My friends," said he, "I congratulate you upon the privilege that awaits you to-night in listening to one who has herself experienced the evils flowing from the curse of intemperance, which no pen is adequate to describe, and of which no lips can m any measure set before you the reality of its fearful ravages. Yet she has suffered no more than thousands of others, no more than some of you; but as none can suffer who have not in some form fallen victims to this terrible scourge. Look around you, ask for the greatest cause that has peopled your jails, your asylums, your almshouses, and your penitentiaries; the answer will come back in thunder tones—Intemperance!
"Ask what has desolated so many homes, turned so many innocent children beggars into the street, plundered and dishonored so many defenceless women in the bloom of youth and beauty; we hear the dismal echo—Rum!
"Seek the causes that most disgrace society anywhere and you will find them in the bloated forms and blighted manhood of those who have sacrificed talent, honor, and the noble aspirations God gave
