There is nothing, perhaps, more pernicious, or more destructive to the
health of man, than the present practice of _segar smoaking_. It is of
all others the most disagreeable, as well as the most obnoxious thing in
use. It may, no doubt, be thought by our _bucks_ who are its votaries,
a mark of gentility, or an accomplishment. Admitting then for a moment,
the truth of this remark; yet which of these _champions_ of folly will
declare, when seriously reflecting, that he would rather sacrifice his
health and happiness, _than_ the gratification (if I may be permitted to
use the expression) of _drawing_ to such a _filthy_ twist? There are
none, however strenuous advocates they may appear for the fashions,
still their own comfort will be consulted before that _mad passion_
which will finally _contaminate_ their blood beyond a purification. Let
them further consider, that _nothing_, however fashionable, can receive
the approbation of their companions, if offensive, and that _segar
smoaking_, when practiced in company (as is often the case) is an
unpardonable insult. The smell conveyed from one of those _infected_
things, is sufficient very often to poison persons within the limits of
a room.
It is somewhat astonishing to see so many who pretend to be men of
sense, give their sanction to a thing that must finally terminate to
their disadvantage; were they to consider the effects which flow from
its indulgence, they would find it to be an irretrievable injury both to
their persons and constitutions: and however sanctioned by custom is not
the less detestable. Although slow in its operations, still it will
prove to be a sure poison, such as will _baffle_ medicine, and _torture_
the skill of the most eminent physicians.
Such, O! ye votaries of segar smoaking, will be your reward, if you
continue to follow this fashionable, though injurious custom.