Rensselaer Union, Volume 9, Number 11, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 30 November 1876 — Afraid to Swear Alone. [ARTICLE]

Afraid to Swear Alone.

The wicked practice of . swearing, which is so common as to oifend the ear in every hotel and almost in every street, is often mere bravado. Boys think it sounds manly te be profane, and men think it gives force and character to their sayings. Unlike most other vices, it is done openly, and is intended by the swearer for other people’s ears. It is a public sia against God, and a public insult to all good men. The boldest blasphemers are often the greatest cowards. “ I will give you ten dollars,” said a man to a profane swearer, “ if you will go into the village graveyard at twelve o’clock to-night, and swear the same oaths you have uttered when you are alone with God.” “ Agreed,” said the ’ man; an easy way to make ten dollars.” “ Well, come to-morrow, and say you have done it, and you shall have the money.” Midnight came. It was a night of great darkness. Ashe entered the cemetery not a sound was heard; all was still as death. Then came the gentleman’s words to his mind. “Alone with God!” rang in his ears. He did not dare to utter an oath, but fled from the place crying, “ Qod be merciful to me, a sinner!” Church Union.