Probably there are no evils more destructive to the happiness and prosperity of nations than luxury, and effeminacy. Many sensible, and enlightened characters have censured in the highest degree the destructive principle of war. It is certainly extremely injurious to the public, and private happiness of mankind—it not only barbarously destroys thousands of our fellow creatures—it not only greatly exhausts the finances of a country—but it is highly incompatible with the mild, and genial principles of Christianity.—But I am inclined to think that in a political sense luxury, and effeminacy are quite as destructive as war to the prosperity of nations—When a country becomes effeminate she soon loses all love of liberty—her prince knows not the state of her affairs— her statesmen are actuated solely by self-interest, are continually guilty of innovations on her laws and constitution—and her people are wholly regardless of their lost rights, and liberties.—

One of the finest, and bravest armies the world ever witnessed commanded by Hannibal was corrupted, and destroyed by the luxury of Capua. So soon as that place was taken Carthage felt a shock which it never recovered; This noble army caught the infection, became effeminate, and fond of pleasure, and luxury which consequently rendered them an easy prey to their enemies.

May we not attribute the decline of the republic of Athens to the conduct of Pericles who debased, and debauched the people's minds with shews, and spectacles, and every species of luxury by which they were made slaves to dissipation, and pleasure, instead of being as many of their ancestors were patriotic friends to liberty—

The corruption of the manners, and finally the downfall of the Romans commonwealth may be dated from the victory over Antioch, and the conquest of Asia when luxury, and voluptuousness were introduced among Roman Citizens.