| Citation |
BG.757.008
14 Feb 1757:21-22 (98)
Boston, February 14. When we consider the distressing
circumstances of this town, by means of heavy taxes and a
decay of trade--When we call to mind the frowns of heaven
upon our military attempts---When we think of those seas of
blood which have been inhumanly spilt in this and the
southern governments, and the numbers of our countrymen
ingloriously taken captive:--One would think it a very
impertinent question to ask, Is this a time for balls and
assemblies ?
However incredible it may seem to wise and sensible people
abroad--however affecting a story to be told to our friends
in captivity, and others in our frontier towns, whose lives
are in continual jeopardy; it must be confessed to the shame
of a few, and the offence of many, that balls and assemblies
increase in this metropolis.
While the brave Rogers is acquiring glory to himself in
the field, and in some degree recovering the sunken
reputation of his country:-- while those who have the honour
of our sovereign and the happiness of his subjects at heart,
are in deep consultation how to stop the progress of our
haughty and barbarous enemies; (will posterity believe it!)
at this very time, there are those among us, whose highest
ambition seems to be, to make a pretty appearance at these
gay diversions; and who thirst for no other glory than may
be won in a belle assemble.
The character of the people ought not however to be drawn
from hence; for it is yet an undoubted truth, that balls and
assemblies are offensive to the generality among us--they
are supported by one particular sett only, but condemned by
the serious and most respectable part of the community: And
they are so highly displeasing to the government, that it is
said, upon a motion made at the council board, a committee
is rais'd to prepare a bill to restrain them.
In what light our superiours view these assemblies, we
pretend not to know; whether as political or moral evils, or
both:---That they largely partake of the former is without
doubt; and when we consider the pride, extravagance and
idleness, which may arise out of them, it will be a very
difficult thing to clear them altogether from the latter.
|