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Harris, W. S. (William Shuler), 1865-

"A twentieth century allegory"

"
Then the demons cheered to the echo, and I listened with a sad, heavy
heart.
The leader continued:
"We are also endeavoring to get the regular church-choirs to imitate
the popular theatrical stars. Of course, we do not oppose the use of
religious words, if we cannot induce them to sing our selections. We
are aiming to create a taste for the up-to-date novelties in music,
in contrast to the old dry singing in certain churches of the King's
Highway." (Prolonged applause.)
As this tall, wiry demon continued to unfold his deep-laid plans, I
well understood why Satan has selected the church-choir as an objective
point, and has delegated so large a number of imps to do work in that
special direction. I then cried within me: "Oh, that these churches
would not use their choir-corners as an advertising medium for the
Theatre! And that choirs, in their musical devotions, may be led by
the Spirit of God rather than by the imps of Hell!"
This committee retired with special encomiums.
The chairman rose and I heard four sonorous clangs which summoned the
"Ministerial" committee. At once its members, in their sedate and
portly attitudes, surged down the massive aisles.


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