THAMES TOTAL ABSTINENCE SOCIETY.

Thames Guardian and Mining Record, Volume I, Issue 27, 7 November 1871, Page 2

THAMES TOTAL ABSTINENCE SOCIETY.

The usual fortnightly meeting of the Thames Total Abstinence Society was held last evening at St. George’s Hall, Captain Ninnis in the chair. The proceedings commenced with the singing of the Temperance Hymn (No. 16,) “ Let Temperance and her sons rejoice.” Mr. Veai.e then addressed the meeting on the cause of temperance, and stating his belief that the movement was spreading at the Thames, and would j'et bear good fruit. The speaker related several anecdotes illustrative of the evils of drunkenness amongst them one, of the mate of a ship once in a good position, who came to poverty, degredation, and misery, and sold the only coat ho possessed for a glass of spirits, and another of a young man who was burned to death in a public bouse, whilst sleeping the heavy sleep of partial intoxication. Mr. Henry Shepherd was next called upon to speak, but begged to bo excused on the ground that ho had a bad cold, and was also unaccustomed to public speaking. Mr. J. Jones then addressed those present saying that he also was suffering from a bad cold, but nevertheless felt it his duty to say something in support of the great cause of temperance. Mr. Jones went on to point out in a forcible manner the sad effects so frequently brought about by indulgence in strong liquors. Mr. Bagnall, senior, followed, and advocated the establishment of the Main Liquor Law, or Permissive Bill, and if possible to do. away with the liquor traffic altogether. Sir. Noddkr spoke next to the same purport, and added that lie bad not signed the pledge because he was afraid of being a drunkard, but as an example to bis fellow men,and if through his example and influence one single individual should be reclaimed, lie should be amply rewarded. The meeting, which was well attended’' and very quiet and orderly throughout its proceedings, then terminated.