y
cannot rid themselves of their responsibility. By abstaining they may
do almost as much to further the views they disapprove of as by taking
an active part in promoting them. If there are evils in connection
with government, the best way to get rid of them is for good men to
take a part in public life, and try to bring about a better state of
things. In a free country no man can shake off his obligations by
refraining from taking part in public affairs. The talent that is
entrusted to us we are bound to use for the glory of God and the good
of man. Our political power, however small, is such a talent, and we
are responsible for its proper employment.

4. It is a duty of citizenship to take direct part in all that we
believe is for the good of the state. We say a direct part, as
distinguished from the indirect part we take in government through
representatives. A man's duty as citizen does not end with the
ballot-box, or with the election of members either to the national or
local council. A great part of the business of the nation is carried
on by the voluntary efforts of its members. There are men and women
that have no part in representative government, who yet can discharge
nobly the duties of citizenship. (_a_) All can take a part in forming
a healthy public opinion. This is done in all free countries in
various ways: through the press, through public meetings, and by means
of the speech and communications of everyday life. If our views are
those of a minority, we may help, by our influence, our example, the
fearless expression of our convictions, to turn the minority into a
majority; and in a democratic country the views of the majority will
ultimately prevail. (_b_) We can also take direct part in promoting
objects that tend to the well-being of society. Much is left by the
state to voluntary effort by its members. The state undertakes the
defence of the country by the army and navy, the relief of the poor,
and the elementary education of the people; but beyond these and other
instances of direct state action there is much left to be done by the
people themselves, and for themselves. The Volunteer movement, in
which men take part of their own free will, and which has been of so
much benefit to the country; the erection and support of hospitals,
libraries, art galleries, colleges and universities; the furnishing of
the people with amusement and recreation--are illustrations of what may
be done b