There was no need for any Royal Commission on Divorce to explain to any reasonably educated citizen what ought to be done, but I agree that the labours of many good men and women have given chapter and verse for the want and the remedy in a convenient form. Too much time was wasted over the moot points of the theologians, for most citizens are agreed that ecclesiastical opinions on the contract of matrimony as it affects the State are of the same value and no more as ecclesiastical opinions would be on such contracts as a bill of sale or a hire-purchase agreement, which may equally from time to time affect adversely or otherwise the moral conduct of human beings. "Marriage is nothing but a civil contract. 'Tis true 'tis an ordinance of God: so is every other contract: God commands me to keep it when I have made it." Worthy John Selden did not mean by that that it was to be kept for ever and in all circumstances, but that it was to be kept until such time as the law released the parties from it in the same way as every other civil contract. Nothing is more true and necessary to be repeated in these days than the citizens' view of marriage law. Whatever codes different religious men and women wish to observe they are free to follow. But the marriage law is a question of citizenship for citizens to settle for themselves. It is therefore satisfactory to read in the Majority Report that English laymen seem generally to base their views, not upon ecclesiastical tradition or sentiment, but upon general Christian principles coupled with common-sense and experience of the needs of human life. It is the conclusion of these men and women--not the anathemas of priests--that want parliamentary attention. They have told us "that there is necessity for reform in this country, both in procedure and in law, if the serious grievances which at present exist are to be removed, and if opportunities of obtaining justice are to be within the reach of the poorer classes. So far from such reforms as we recommend tending to lower the standard of morality and regard for the sanctity of the marriage tie, we consider that reform is necessary in the interest of morality, as well as in the interest of justice; and in the general interests of society and the State." When shall we find time to ease these heavy burdens of the poor and let the oppressed go free? CHAPTER VIII FLAT-TRAPS AND THEIR VICTIMS Will you walk into my parlour Said the Spider to the Fly 'Tis the prettiest little parlour You ever did espy. The way into my parlour Is up a winding stair, And I have many curious things To show you when you're there. Will you? Won't you? Will you? Won't you? Walk in pretty Fly. _Nursery Rhyme._