Richmond dispatch. [volume] (Richmond, Va.) 1884-1903, 1888-06-23

TO the Editor Of the Dispatch:

10 tNG JiUttOT " Hto DtoPUtCfe'
There is in every human heart re-
pository of secret thought and emotion
into which no relative, however dear, no
confident, however favored, is permitted
to look. 1t may be an unfulhlled aspira-
ton, q blighted hope, crime, or
thought of suicide.
Ii would be a curious revelation 10
know how many OF those who throng
the daily walks Of life have at some
period Of their existence looked upon
seIf-destruction as a possible ending OF
their earthly career, and then shut out
at once and forever the dreadful vision
from their view.
What strong evidence do these sad
cases of fatality afford Of the imperfec-
ton of our social system and faulty
methods Of education. The theory that
suicide is the result Of insanity is utterly
untenable. Thousands of persons have
met their death in this way in the full
possession Of their mental faculties, and
with a cslmness, q deliberstion OF pur-
pose, which forbids the s1ppositlon Of
madness.
II is also a noticeable fact that the
very poor and wretched and those SUI
fcring from painful and incurable dis
eases are not, as might be expected, the
most frequent victims. Nor do the vi
cious and deprayed outlaws and rob
bers often rid society OF their presence
by this method.
Those who commit suicide are often,
If not generally, persons of intelligence,
refinement, and good standing in society.
The most frequent cause Is failure in
business or disappointment OF some KIND.
The strain which is brought 10 bear
upon q sensitive man in good society
ana with limited means, anxious to edu-
cate bis children and to keep them IN
good social standing is tremendous, and
il is not surprising that one occasionally
gives way under 1t.
The remedy does not consist in the
oft-preached plan OF palmer living on
the part OF the wealthy. bat In recog-
milton Of true merit regardless OF its
surroundings, and in that broad and
kindly charity which elevates, reiines,
and inspires ali who come within its
reach. The millionaire is not going to
live in a cabin aud fare upon pork and
beans to teach bis poor nelgnDor frugal
ity. But il be is true man he will give
hin a kind and cordial greeting, he will
put outa hand TO help him climb the
ladder OF success, and he will endow
schools to educate his children, and give
them the capacity to work and make
their own way.
LISA far more difficult question as to
how our present system OF education
should be amended and improved 50 rs
to render suicide less frequent or impos-
sible. How are we to tram tho restrain
ing qualities Of conscience and self
control as we do reason and memory
qualities which, ii well developed, would
eFeetually prevent the act OF self-de-
suuction?
Inasmuch as trial and disappointment
fall to the lot OF all, even the most favor
ed. would it not be vel to introduce a
certain degree OF il, even artihcially if
necessary. in the training OF the young,
so as to render them better fitted to en-
dure hardshIps in after life.
The fact should be recognized and pro-
vided for that neither wealth, nor heri-
taee, nor exalted station can purchase
immunity from the Ills of life.
Into each life some rain must fall. >"
NJ. ID.