disposition he says exists in a large number
of persons, and is as well defined pathologically, and as certain to
become active, under favoring causes, as any other disease. Alcoholic
stimulants are its exciting causes. Let, said the doctor, a man so
predisposed indulge in the use of intoxicating liquors, and he will
surely become a drunkard. There is no more immunity for him, he added,
than for the man who with tubercles in his lungs exposes himself to
cold, bad air and enervating bodily conditions. Now, is not this a very
serious view to take of the matter?"

"Certainly it is," replied Mr. Elliott. "Intemperance is a sad thing,
and a most fearful curse."

He did not look comfortable. It was to him an untimely intrusion of an
unpleasant theme. "But what in the world set the doctor off on this
subject?" he asked, trying to make a diversion.

"Occasions are apt to suggest subjects for conversation," answered the
gentleman. "One cannot be present at a large social entertainment like
this without seeing some things that awaken doubts and questionings. If
it be true, as Dr. Angier says, that the disease of intemperance is as
surely transmitted, potentially, as the disease of consumption, and
will become active under favoring circumstances, then a drinking
festival cannot be given without fearful risk to some of the invited
guests."

"There is always danger of exciting disease where a predisposition
exists," replied Mr. Elliott. "A man can hardly be expected to make
himself acquainted with the pathology of his guests before inviting
them to a feast. If that is to be the rule, the delicate young lady
with the seeds of consumption in her system must be left at home for
fear she may come with bare arms and a low-necked dress, and expose
herself after being heated with dancing to the draught of an open
window. The bilious and dyspeptic must be omitted also, lest by
imprudent eating and drinking they make themselves sick. We cannot
regulate these things. The best we can do is to warn and admonish.
Every individual is responsible for his own moral character, habits and
life. Because some may become the slaves of appetite, shall restraint
and limitation be placed on those who make no abuse of liberty? We must
teach men self-control and self-mastery, if we would truly help and
save them. There is some exaggeration, in my opinion, about this
disease-theory of intemperance. The deductions of one-idea men are not
always to be trus