The strength that saves must be something more than the external bond of a promise; it must come from within, and be grounded in a new and changed life, internally as well as externally.

If the reformed man, after he takes his pledge, does not endeavor to lead a better moral life--does not keep himself away from old debasing associations--does not try, earnestly and persistently, to become, in all things, A TRUER, PURER, NOBLER MAN, then his pledge is only as a hoop, that any overstrain may break, and not an internal bond, holding in integrity all things from the centre to the circumference of his life.
So well is this now understood, that little reliance is had on the pledge in itself, though its use is still general.

It is regarded as a first and most important step in the right direction.

As the beginning of a true and earnest effort on the part of some unhappy soul to break the bonds of a fearful slavery.

But few would think of leaving such a soul to the saving power of the pledge alone.