6
ing results still remain with the labourer—more
power and superior skill (which is aptitude for
performing again the same work more easily
and successfully) remain with the members of
the body which have been exercised ; keener
intellect from the exercise of the mental facul
ties ; superior morality with the striving soul.
Labour, under whatever name known, is the
only means of human improvement.
Idleness or sloth, the attempt—and it can
be no more than an attempt—to evade the
universal law of labour, is only a short pause,
during which all that is good in humanity is
rotting, and evil powers are germinating which
will soon spring up and urge to fearful activity ;
just as the same water which, when flowing
along in its river coursp/an emblem of the beau
tiful and joyously free, cherishes the noble vege
tation of trees and flowers, confers upon its
country health and wealth, and bears the gallant
ships that pass thereby ; when stagnating in the
level marsh .seems at first quiescent, then fosters
every dank and putrid thing, and spreads un
wholesome malarious vapours over earth s sur
face. Sloth is a part of that sinister bent which
pervades the whole character of fallen man,