FoodNet

A practical cook and text book for general use

1896

Page 82

Presented as published in 1896. Historical recipes may not meet modern food-safety standards. Cook from the modern interpretation, not the original instructions.
from this harmful feasting, wine-bibbing and drinking, these deceptive halucinations would fade away in the bril- liant light of an awakened womanhood that would lead to a wiser use of time and talents ; and another feature not to be overlooked, mankind would turn their attention away from these alluring attractions that hold them with a grasp of iron. Social requirements are burdensome in every way, and worst of all, these exciting intoxicating dissipations pre- pare the way for the physical and moral imperfection of future generations. Progress into this life has been won- derfully developed during recent years. From the plate of cake and glass of wine, the elaborate meals for invited guests, to the grand receptions in honor of events and noted individuals that end in a sumptuous repast, each and all are prepared with special reference to gustatory and social pleasure. No thought about the possible effects that are certain to follow causes which are often manifested in an unexpected manner. Possibly in the sudden death of some prominent person at the table who after a hearty meal endeavored to use his brain by making an eloquent speech, while the blood was in the stomach and nervous energy concentrated in the process of diges- tion, until the sudden demand for it in the top of the ** house " caused the cessation of the busy wheels of life and " heart failure," apoplexy or paralysis are assigned as the cause of death. It seems a matter of surprise that when men and women who have been engaged in helpful labor for humanity suddenly pass away that no special enquiry is made with reference to ascertaining the causes that have led to premature departure. A long set of ** resolutions," the 2o6 THE FAT OF THE LAND. life work made public, letters and messages of condolence an expensive funeral and thus ends the responsibility of those remaining. Why not pause and consider the causes that may have led to the sudden transition of a valuable and useful life, that had not half performed its work on earth, instead of resolving that it has " pleased the Almighty to remove an active worker in the cause, " thus blaming the Creator for our sins. When women take note of such things and make a study of conditions and causes, subjects for social consideration, one great step toward a wiser more beneficent work for the race will have begun. When matters pertaining to the inner life and workings of the home ; the condition of its occupants and themes connected with domestic affairs ; the creation of genera- tions and how we can endow children with sufficient vitality to remain upon earth, instead of being transferred to heaven in a few months or years are discussed, then we may expect an improved order of men and women. When they discuss the causes that lead to drink, tobacco, opium and other unnecessary preparations, they will be engaged in promulgating thoughts and efforts for the redemption and purification of the world. When they organize meetings and discuss their own tables and begin to cast out the unwise and noxious supplies and substitute a higher order of food we may reasonably look forward to a more beautiful, temperate and solid foundation of youth maturing in the twentieth century. How to economize work, save time and make improve- ments generally in our homes and every thing pertaining to the health of the household are not beyond the com- prehension of most women, and in some places lines in SOCIAL REQUIREMENTS. 207 this direction have been thrown out. Art, music and kin- dred subjects would give added charm to visits, calls and entertainment. With these objects in view, an impetus would be given to the wheels of progress in new and desirable directions.