The Ipswich series of temperance tracts

In this inquiry we would treat of malt liquors-of wine —and of ardent spirits. Each of these is known to differ from the others, but each possessing alcohol, which is identical in all as to its effect on the human body. We know of four purposes for which some of these are supposed to be beneficially employed, namely--as

NOURISHMENT-as

TONICS-as ASSISTANTS TO DIGESTION-aud as STIMULANTS. We know of no other, unless under a separate head we class the alcoholic beverages given to NURSING

MOTHERS.

AS TO NOURISHMENT.-Let us inquire what amount there is in these beverages. We suppose it to be an admitted principle that no liquid contains any nourishment which does not contain a solid-that no liquid which does not contain a solid can make flesh and bone. Water is only a diluent. It may be asked, how comes it with this doctrine that milk is nourishing? The milk, when it reaches the stomach, is by the gastric juice divided into curds and whey the former possessing the nutriment. This then does not affect the rule. Now taking this rule for granted, we will examine the various beverages. First, Ardent Spirits, including Brandy, Rum, and Gin; these contain no solids, and are quite innutritious. Wine contains a portion of solid, which portion is so small as in two glasses of sherry wine not to exceed that of a kernel of wheat. Malt Liquor, honestly made, has water, hop, and malt. The latter is the only ingredient which contains any nourishment. Take a gallon of ale, for instance, which shall be sold at two shillings-put it over the fire-at 175 degrees of heat the alcohol will fly up the chimney-at 212 degrees the water will evaporate-continue the boiling and

Books

The Ipswich series of temperance tracts, Volume 1