
Introduction.
CHAPTER I. - RECREATION A GOOD THING.
CHAPTER II. - TRUE RECREATION.
CHAPTER III. - THE THEATER.
CHAPTER IV. - HORSE-RACING.
CHAPTER V. - BASE BALL.
CHAPTER VI. - DANCING AND BALLS.
CHAPTER VII. - CARDS, CHESS, AND BILLIARDS.
CHAPTER VIII. - NOVELS AND NOVEL-READING.
CHAPTER IX. - SOCIAL GATHERINGS.
This concise work explores the long‑standing tension between everyday entertainments and a life devoted to Christian faith, focusing especially on the Methodist Episcopal tradition. Drawing on biblical passages and the outspoken warnings of figures such as Charles Wesley, it shows how seemingly harmless diversions have been linked to spiritual complacency. The author also traces how popular pastimes evolve, yet the underlying moral questions remain constant.
The writer adopts a measured yet firm tone, arguing that even the “lesser” pleasures can open the door to greater moral compromise. By laying out Scripture‑based criteria and practical advice, the book equips readers to evaluate current amusements against the standards of piety and discipline cherished by the church. It is a useful guide for anyone seeking a thoughtful, faith‑centered perspective on leisure in today’s world.
Language
en
Duration
~3 hours (175K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Chris Curnow, Ron Stephens and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)
Release date
May 18, 2014
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1819–1880
A 19th-century Methodist minister and reform-minded writer, he brought the same moral energy to his books that he did to the pulpit. His work captures a world of abolitionist conviction, temperance advocacy, and lively debate over everyday pleasures.
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