If we are not yet strong enough to drive out the enemy, we may limit his power, and do THE WORK OF HEALING AND SAVING.
What, then, is being done in this work of healing and saving?
Is there, in fact, any cure for the dreadful malady of drunkenness?
Are men ever really saved from its curse?
and, if so, how is it done, and what are the agencies employed?
Among the first of these to which we shall refer, is the pledge.

As a means of reform and restriction, it has been used by temperance workers from the beginning, and still holds a prominent place.

Seeing that only in a complete abstinence from intoxicating drinks was there any hope of rescue for the drunkard, or any security for the moderate drinker, it was felt that under a solemn pledge to wholly abstain from their use, large numbers of men would, from a sense of honor, self-respect or conscience, hold themselves free from touch or taste.

In the case of moderate drinkers, with whom appetite is yet under control, the pledge has been of great value; but almost useless after appetite has gained the mastery.
In a simple pledge there is no element of self-control.

If honor, self-respect or conscience, rallying to its support in the hour of temptation, be not stronger than appetite, it will be of no avail.