INTRODUCTION. WHATEVER uncertainty may yet exist, as to the proper classification of man in animated nature; there can be little doubt that he is, and from the earliest ages has been, a drinking animal. Allusions to his bibulous propensities appear in the most sacred, the most ancient books; and the histories of all lands afford examples. Unfortunately the precept, "avoid wine, wherein there is excess," has been repeatedly forgotten. The most polished nations of antiquity, revelling in the choicest liquors, have erred in this, as much as the rudest savages on the first introduction to them of "fire-water." It will be necessary, however, to confine our observations to the drinking habits of our own country, and of these, even to give but a sketch-a sample, and not a full draught. The Celtic nations appear to have been generally addicted to drinking; and the ancient b X Britons, as well of this as of other origin, formed no exception to the rule,-ale and mead being the principal drinks; for wine, probably, was scarcely known until after the establishment of the Romans in the island. Their feasts sometimes lasted for several days; our worthy slightly-clad predecessors continuing their amusement as long as provisions and liquors lasted. The Anglo Saxons not only emulated, but exceeded them in their drinking propensities; and drank largely in honour of their gods, at their religious festivals. However, this is not remarkable, when we recollect that after a well-spent life here, according to their notions,―i. e., fighting, drinking, and committing breaches of several of the commandments, that would have made them objects of wonder in any modern police courts,-they were to be rewarded in the Valhalla, with the privilege of fighting all the live-long day, and feasting every night on Scrymer, a great boar, drinking mead and beer at discretion, out of the skulls of their slain enemies;-a constancy of entertainment, more to be wondered at than followed in the present excitement-seeking age. After the introduction of Christianity, they merely varied their habits of intemperance; drinking large draughts at their religious festivals in honour of our Saviour, the Virgin Mary, the Apostles, and other Saints. |