If they possess the gift of language, either as writers or talkers--have wit, brilliancy and sarcasm--they make disciples of the less gifted, and influence larger or smaller circles of men and women.

Flattered by this homage to their talents, they grow more ardent in the cause which they have espoused, and see, or affect to see, little else of any importance in the world.

They do some good and much harm.

Good, in drawing general attention to social evils that need reforming--evil, in causing weak people to forget common duties in their ambition to set the world right.
There is always danger in breaking suddenly away from the regular progression of things and taking the lead in some new and antagonistic movement.

Such things must and will be; but they who set up for social reformers must be men and women of pure hearts, clear minds and the broadest human sympathies.