XXviii ANALYSIS OF THE CONTENTS.

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CHAPTER V. Duelling.

Difficulty of treating this subject by argument, because the advocates of thispractice do not defend it in this way,.428

The paper left by Alexander Hamilton reprinted (in a note), and its reason-ings carefully analyzed,.".429

CHAPTER VI. Theatrical Amusements.

Sentiments of the Old Congress respecting these amusements,.432

The chief objections felt by the great body of serious Christians againsttheatres and theatrical amusements, stated, .433

CHAPTER VII. Immoral Influence of Skepticism.

The skeptical system subverts the foundation of morals,.438

Its influence on the formation of character is most disastrous,.443

Especially it nourishes vanity (egotism), ferocity, and sensuality, .... 444

CONCLUSION.

Review of the Means which may be relied upon to improve theMoral Condition of Mankind, and to advance Human Happiness.

The moral condition of mankind may be improved,

1. By the extension of Christianity in the earth,.453

2. By extending education and general intelligence,.457

3. By extending freedom and well-regulated free institutions,.462

4. By the effectual prohibition of gaming, the lottery system, &c., . . . 463

5. By correcting public opinion through the press, the pulpit, &c., . . . 464

Every thing promotive of good morals, is preeminently productive of hap-piness; but, to secure this last end, we must more particularly rely

1. On still further inventions in labor-saving machinery,.468

2. On the reformation of our criminal law, and the codification of our law

generally, so far as the nature of the case permits,.471

3. On the penitentiary system, contemplated as a means of meliorating the

condition of mankind,.480

4. On applying the principles of insurance more extensively than they have

been hitherto applied,.485

5. On the prevalence of the spirit and principles of peace.490