THE SOCIAL EVIL.

Press, Volume XII, Issue 11575, 23 November 1867, Page 2

THE SOCIAL EVIL.

TO THE EDITOB OP THB PBES3. Sib,—The desirability of taking immedmto steps for the suppression of this evil must be manifest to most of the residents of Christchurch. As regards the reformation of the unfortunate women, the ti»9k may prove difficult - and the.responsibility of the endeavour rests particularly with those commissioned and appointed to the sacred work of seeking and saving the lost characters which should ever command their special watchfulness and oare. But public feeling and decency is not to be outraged even by these, and while they aro entitled to our sympathy, and we recog« nize them ns a portion of the same fallen family 11a ourselves, we are called upon by every act of ours to discountenance their practices, and enact laws for the punishment of vices which are not only injurious to themselves but the community at large. To effect this restraint tho strong arm of the law must be solicited, and the question arises as to what way it can be applied. To such an extent did this evil exist in the neighbouring colonies that the most rigid regulations were given to the police respecting offenders of this chvs. Those offending by making solicitation of any kind in the streets were liable to three months'imprisonment with hard labour. Disorderly conduct in the streets subjected them to similar consequence* ; and unless they could give a satisfactory account as to their.mode of obtaining v living they were liable to commitment under tho Vagrant Act. Parties keeping Houses for the accommodation of women of this class were also liable to a similar penalty. I am.ignorant of the law respecting such offenders here, but under existing circumstances it will doubtless receive the consideration of the Grown Prosecutor, who I observed was present at tho meeting of yesterday, no doubt with a view to protect the interest of society generally under the circumatancos.

Example is, doubtless, before precept, and every man interesting himself in these pro« ceedings should have clean hands for the work, or how truly may these unfortunates address such a ono in tho language of Holy * writ. Thou sayest " Thou shall not commit adultery ;" dost thou commit adultery ? " I remain, sir, your obedient servant, H. EIiETOHEB.