But you must discuss 'em, if you wish us to change
our ways, and stop breeding.
PHILOSOPHER. Very well: perhaps you are right. But, again, I
should first have to establish a basis for my arguments, by
showing that the conception of marriage entertained by you all is
a low one. It is not simply a breeding matter. The beauty and
value of the relation lies in its educational effects--the
cultivation of mutual sentiments and refinements of great
importance to a community.
STONEMASON. Ay! Very beautiful and refining to Mr. and Mrs.
Philosopher, but I'd like to know where the country would have
been if our fathers had held to that view of matrimony? Why,
ain't it in natur' for all beings to pair, and have young? an'
you say we ain't to do it! I think a statesman ought to make
something out of what's nateral to human beings, and not try to
change their naturs. Besides, ain't there good of another kind
to be got out of the relation of parents and children? Did you
ever have a child yourself?
GINX (contemplating the Philosopher's physique). HE have a
youngster! He couldn't.
CHORUS. Ha! Ha! Ha!
STONEMASON. I don't believe in yer humbuggin' notions. They
lead to lust and crime;--I'm told they do in France.
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