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GOOD LIFE, LONG LIFE.
forth as the offspring of the press; but its real value is seldom carefully estimated. In our declaration of human rights, one of the most important clauses is freedom of the press. This was a grand and noble declaration, which permitted all, of whatever rank or creed, to place before the public their opinions. As the outgrowth of this freedom, both the right and wrong of every issue have been discussed. The fallacies of the old and the inconsistencies of the new are alike advanced and supported. Literature of the poorest kind is as widely spread as the best. Worthless fiction has found ready recognition, where the works of great minds have never reached.
But a small portion of the literature of the present time has an ennobling influence, and an elevating nature. The worst of all this is seen in the lower class of journals. It is evident that this department of the press has degenerated from its primeval worth and is becoming distrusted by intellectual people. At the present day much of its former dignity is spent in vain attempts after personal renown. Much of
the matter in the journals is inferior, and has little tendency to better the public. The paramount object of the modern journal is financial profit. Its individuality is sacrificed for some political aspirant. It lays aside the principles of right and uses its power on some worthless motive. Trivial things are painted in glowing colors and recommended as the thought of a reflective mind. The chief object in times of political excitement is to extol one man and slander another. Many of the journals are owned and controlled by politicians as a means of promoting their own interests. When such is the case nothing need be expected but imprudent distinction. In this regard journalism is in a purer state in England than in America. When reforms are taking place, certainly a change in the press is requisite and demanded. Society would be made better, politics purified, legislation honored. It would enhance our high civilization and erect a crowning glory to the freedom established by our ancestors. G.
G.
GOOD LIFE, LONG LIFE.
It is not growing like a tree In bulk, doth make man better be; Or standing long an oak, three hundred year, To fall a log at last, dry, bald and sear.
A lily of a day
Is fairer far in May.
Although it fall and die that night,
It was the plant and flower of light.
In small proportions we first beauties see;
And in short measure life may perfect be.
BEN JOHNSON,