The Yakima herald. [volume] (North Yakima, W.T. [Wash.]) 1889-1914, 1893-09-07
Official Paper Of North Yakima
THE SUNDAY PROBLEM.

Every problem Of intrinsic merit upon
the proper solution OF which respectable
classes in the community are seriously
divided is worthy Of careful. candid and
sincere consideration. Without the priv
ilece of free speech and the aid of free
press in such matters, the disposition
made Of such questions is just as likely
to be in accord with the vulgar whim OF
the barbarian as in consonahce with the
conscientious desire Of the representatives
Of good morals and a just law. Such
agencies are always practically useful in
the adjustment of community differences,
but they should be employed with can.
dor, prudence and well-defned honesty
Of purpose.
The peopleof North Yakima are to day
divided upon a question OF more thar
passing mportance-divided not 30 much
on the justice and wisdom OF the moral
and civil law clearly applicable in the
case as upon the expediency of applying
it strictly at this time.
A sincere desire to be just and honor
able and willingness to be directed by a
reverential esteem for things sacred gov
ern one element in the present contest,
while probably purely mercensry mo
tive prompts the opposing class to action
1t is the question as to whether or not tn,
law which directs that business shall bt
absolutely suspended on Sunday shall b.
respected in this community.
On the first page of this issue appear
three or four Communications from men
whom the Peep of this city esteem as
ministers Of the gospel-devout, kind
hearted, well-meaning, able gentlemen
They have spoken clearly, plainly and
without passion. They offer offense to No
one. Their positions are in happy ac.
cord with both the civil and the moral
law. With candid sincerity they urge
the maintenance OF one day Of rest in
seven, Of respect for the holy character
OF the day we call Sunday. They ha We
petitioned the municipal legislature tc
decree that the state law shall be obeyed
but that body will probably continue /,
ignore their prayer.
Political obligation, in this day of IN
holy public service, too frequently over
shadows an appropriate sense Of mora
responsibility, and in solution OF tn,
problem suggested by this fact will thu
advocates OF righteous business and socia
conduct find the key that win ADM
them to the inner sanctum OF those VIII,
are answerable for the present necessit,
for their appeal.
Members Of the city council are ser
wants of the public and 10 the rank the,
enjoy above the lowly sovefeigns Of th,
city there is scarcely sufficient glory t,
ease the pain inflicted by their ofiieia
coronet Of thorns. But their constituent,
have right 10 know their position, in
dividually, on matter OF such gray,
concern to many, and in their Withhold
ing that expression the people are beref
Of privilege they ought to be permitted
to enjoy. The ultimate disposition of tn,
matter is, therefore, as remote as it wal
at the time the action was begun.
This is not and should not be made .
personal matter, but members OF the city
council, by absolutely ignoring the petit
ton of the people, appear to challenge
discussion of that phase of the question
Our columns are open to al who wish
to discuss this matter.