The members therefore of this
society are expected to wait in silence, not only in their places of
worship, but occasionally in their families, or in their private
chambers, in the intervals of their daily occupations, that, in
stillness of heart, and in freedom from the active contrivance of their
own wills, they may acquire both directions and strength for the
performance of the duties of life. The Quakers therefore are of opinion,
that, if instrumental music were admitted as a gratification in leisure
hours, it would take the place of many of these serious retirements, and
become very injurious to their interests and their character as
christians.
SECT. III
_Vocal music forbidden--singing in itself no more immoral than reading
--but as vocal music articulates ideas, it may convey poison to the mind
--some ideas in songs contrary to Quaker notions of morality--as
in hunting songs--or in baccanalian--or in martial--youth make no selection
--but learn off that fall in their way._
It is an observation of Lactantius, that the "pleasures we receive
through the organ of the ears, may be as injurious as those we receive,
through the organ of the eyes." He does not, however, consider the
effect of instrumental music as much to be regarded, "because sounds,
which proceed from air, are soon gone, and they give birth to no
sentiments that can be recorded.
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