The central Presbyterian. [volume] (Richmond, Va.) 1856-1908, 1869-04-14

should exclude the discussion of this subject, as
one not proper for our columns? Let us see
While "F. j." does not think the principle
upon which Life Assurance institutions are based,
is necessarily or even generally dishonest
while he does not think the vice Of gambling"
is involved, yet he alleges that "a great many of
the most pious and best informed people in the
land believe it to be-" sc. So our correspondent
from the House Hountain" also regards it.
The answer to this is so obvious that we wonder
the quick intelligence of our friend did not per-
eeive its force. If gambling and dishonesty are
at the bottom of this thing, involved in its very
principle, surely these are vices which ought to be
discussed, and where more appropriately than In
the religious newspaper? As well demonstrate
against our allowing the discussion of any one or
all of the ten commandments. If these thousands
of intelligent Christian people are really implicated
in gambling, if the matter is dishonest-if Satan
is at the bottom of tit will be one of the great
est of mercies that they should have their eyes
speedily opened, that peradventure g they may re-
cover themselves out of the snare of the devil. .
1t must tie taken for granted that they are SHINING
ignoranty, if SHINING at all; but evensin of gno-
rance often plunge men into crime. And if it is
with many ga matter of conscience and duty to
oppose this whole thing" there are few places
where they can do it more effectually than in the
religious newspaper, Let them show up this In
iuuity, if it be so, from foundation to turret. 1t
will be great public benefit.
But, if on the other hand, the principle Of Life
Assurance berigbt, and the operation, when
properly conducted, is benefcent, our friends who
oppose it would be benefited by receiving light
As the question now stands in their minds, the
view they must necessarily take of large portion
of their fellow -christians- few of their own
ministers-;s any thing but comfortable. Certainly
it is not pleasant to think Of anv such gamblers
and engaged in a dishonest business, however un-
intentionally Is it not possible that they them
selves may have failed to look at the subject dis
passiouately? Are they quite sure they have
explored it to its foundations? Might not calm
and full discussion impart valuable information,
and relieve the minds of many from painful mis-
apprehension?
So then, in whatever direction we turn, which
ever side has the right why not investigate the sub
eet in religious newspaper? IF many good peo-
pie think it sinful, as "F. j.. represents, then it
is plain from his own statement that it has "a re-
Hgious aspect, and therefore his plea falls to the
ground. If, on the other hand the views of those
who think such institutions right and beneGcient
and that some plan of the sort might be applied
to the eectua relief of the families of our minis
tiers, there is another religious aspect" making
the subject eminently suitable for religious news
paper, and so the plea for exclusion fails again.
Added to all this is the fact that, to our certain
knowledge, many excellent people very much de-
sire its discussion. Many have been perplexed-
the question has not been reyoved fully-they
hear objections-they are in some dOubt-they
ask for light Under these circumstances our
course as the conductor of a religious journal is
clear. We would treat the feelings Of all men
with due respect-and even their prejudices are
not to be needlessly disregarded. But we think
our friends will see that, in view of the facts and
considerations presented above it is unreasonable
to ask an exclusion of such subject from our col
umns. Newspapers are not established to be the
mere medium for discussing matters about which
all men are agreed This is not trivial, but most
important matter, in whatever light we view it.; it
is one about which an almost unexampled interest
is felt in the public mind-it is one of strong bear
ings-economical, moral and even religious. We
are sorry if any are dissatisfied about its introduce
ton into our columns; We have endeavored to
show that in this they are unreasonable. We
hope the number is not large; but be this as it
may, our own convictions of duty were never
palmer, and by them we firmly abide.
We are at some loss as to the precise meaning of
our correspondent when he demonstrates against
the publication of articles Ike those recently lorit
ten, ;" ''by DR.. Baird The italics are ours,l
We can hardly imagine the point of the objection
is against anything supposed to be censurable in
the manner in which DR.. Baird has conducted his
discussion. We have heard but one opinion as to
this from those with whom we have conversed.
The articles are written by gentleman well known
for his habits of close investigation and accurate
statement; they display marked ability and full
acquaintance with his subject, are carefully pre-
pared, are presented in style and spirit every way
commendable, are respectful to every body and
every thing entitled to respect. 1t cannot be ex.
pected that upon such subject the opinions
adopted should satisfy all but we are sure the
author will receive the thanks of very many for a
more thorough discussion he is giving to subject
which exceedingly needed it, than is to be found
any where among the periodicals of the day, If
any think the principle he advocates Though one