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The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 40

What the Present "Secular System" Will Lead To. — To the Editor of the "Southland Times."

page 66

What the Present "Secular System" Will Lead To.

To the Editor of the "Southland Times."

Sir,—I was very much interested in reading a report which appeared lately in your paper to the effect that a child brought up before the R.M. Court, Christchurch, said that she did no know the nature of an oath, did not know that there was a Bible, and did not know what would become of her if she told lies. I doubt whether the Bench would have been ready with the only rational answer to the question—what would become of them if they told a lie? which is that they would be liable to be brought into Court to be tried for perjury. The Chief Ministers of the State ought to understand the Government system about secular education. They should have enquired of the constables about Schoolmasters and not about Clergyman. If such ignorance is disgraceful amongst children, why do not the Magistrates report the matter to the proper authorities—the Inspectors of Schools—and require that the children should be properly instructed about the duty of telling the truth, and the consequence of telling lies, according to the present State system? I have heard the term "a mockery and a snare" and I think it could be judiciously applied to any sentiments that are expressed by the servants of the State concerning higher religion, while they are ignorant about the secular system, in which ministers and people in the larger towns seem so quietly acquiescing. The old world which recognizes and establishes religion is consistent, but these young countries are not because they only want it when they can get it for nothing without labour or pains. I would suggest some such catechism as this :—

Question.—What is an oath?

Answer.—A formal promise to the State to tell actual facts.

Question.—What will become of you if you tell a lie?

Answer.—I shall be liable to be tried for perjury.

Question.—Can you be considered guilty if not convicted?

Answer.—No : I could prosecute for libel any one who called me a liar.—I am, &c.,

Consistency.

Invercargill,