ulation. It
was of the utmost importance, as well for the peace and good order of
the colony, as in accordance with the principles of self-denial and
virtuous living on which it was founded, that every disorder should be
checked in the bud. Considering the variety of adventurers, of all
shades of character, from the religious enthusiast, seeking in unknown
regions, invested with strange charms by a heated imagination, the
kingdom of saints upon earth, which he had vainly hoped to erect in
the old world, down to the reckless freebooter, whose life had been
passed in wild indulgence, unrestrained by law, human or divine, whom
chance or design had thrown upon their coast, it is obvious that a
vigilant eye and strong hand were necessary to note and repress every
incipient sign of irregularity or turbulence.

Yet did the host sigh as he dropped into a seat at the departure of
the company. With one eye fixed upon a heavenly and the other on an
earthly treasure, he was counting up in his mind the crowns he had
lost by the intrusion of Master Prout, and at the same time lamenting
the depravity of men who could bear no more than a bottle of wine
apiece.

"Master Arundel," he said at length, "I do admire the wisdom--ahem--of
the worshipful magistrates in the care they take of the citizens and
visitors of our godly town. By the appointment of Master Prout to the
office which he doth sometimes exercise with somewhat of rigor, they
do, too, in a manner avouch the value of my calling, and their desire
to countenance it, and that in agreement with Scripture, for is it not
written that He hath given wine to gladden man's heart? Nevertheless,
methinks, being one of the congregation, a modicum might be left to
mine own judgment in regard to the capacity of my guests. Not that I
care about the two or three pieces whereof his interference hath
deprived me--ahem--but the feelings of godly men who know best what is
good for them, are hurt needlessly oftentimes. The wine is good, as
can be proved by our own virtuous citizens, who have not injured
themselves by early rioting, and are able, as a reward of their
youthful temperance, to drink twice as much as this Captain Sparhawk,
who hath probably, in a measure, injured his constitution by
indulgence in bad liquors. Man is truly a fallen creature," concluded
goodman Nettles, heaving a deep sigh,--"ahem--or such wine could never
affect him."

Arundel felt no inclination to discuss the subjec