The class of votaries of pleasure to whom we refer is accurately described by the inspired writer of the Book of Wisdom: "Come, say they, and let us enjoy the good things that are present, and let us speedily use the creatures as in youth: let us fill ourselves with costly wine and ointments, and let not the flower of the time pass by us: let us crown ourselves with flowers before they be withered: let no meadow escape our riot"--(_Wisdom_, ii. 6). The consequences of such a life of pleasure are very fatal; those who engage in it think of nothing but self, forget the rights and interests of others, and become cruel and hard-hearted. When the Romans abandoned their ancient simplicity, and became disciples of the effeminate Epicurus, we learn from history that they were accustomed to have gladiatorial combats at their banquets, so that whilst indulging in the pleasures of the table, they might glut their eyes with the sight of unfortunate men murdering one another. It is also related that in the times of the greatest pagan refinement in Rome, masters sometimes put their slaves to death, in order that the muraenas and other fishes which they kept in artificial lakes, might be made more delicate and grateful to their taste by feeding on human flesh. It was also, we are not to forget, in a ball-room, in the midst of pleasures, that a dancing-girl, the daughter of Herodias, petitioned Herod to grant her the head of St. John the Baptist in a dish. This tendency of those who abandon themselves to earthly pleasures is confirmed by the testimony of the same inspired writer whom we have just quoted. According to him, they say within themselves, "Let none of us go without his part in luxury; let us everywhere leave tokens of joy; for this is our portion and this our lot. Let us oppress the poor just man, and not spare the widow, nor honour the ancient gray hairs of the aged. But let _our strength be the law of justice, for that which is feeble is found to be little worth_"--(_Wisdom_, ii. 9). How often are these words illustrated in our own days! Men who throw away thousands on horse-racing, gambling, the theatre, and fashion, frequently persecute the poor, deprive them of their just rights, and envy them not only the smallest enjoyment, but even the necessaries of life. Many political economists go still farther, and endeavour to exterminate the poor altogether, lest their rags and their suffering should offend the eye of the wealthy. Indeed in the present day and among ourselves, "_strength is the law of justice_", and the artizan and labourer are looked on as mere instruments to promote the wealth and pleasures of others; "for that _which is feeble is found to be little worth_".