XV / 154
PREFACE.
vii
with the objectionable part of adulteration, expe–
rience
has
fully demonetrated.
Some may contend that there ie no necessity for
the adulteration of liquors. True, the neceesity does
not exist, more than exists the necessity for its con–
sumption : each is coexistent with the other, and
will
thus continue so long as the depravity of human
nature induces man to indulge in that which grati–
fies but
his
inordinate passions. So long, therefore,
as he will, at any cost, gratify his depraved appetite,
let us at least place before him that which will do
the least harm ; that which is the most wholesome,
if
indeed there is anything wholesome in the use of
intoxicating drinks.
Were all liquors imported pure, and sold in the
same state, the quantity sold would be a mere item
compared with the amount now drank in this country.
Indeed, France and the continental countries of
Europe do not produce a sufficient quantity, if the
entire products of their vineyards
Wt»'e
emported,
to
811pJ>ly
tlw
nat;u;raJ,
trade
of
New Y 0rk Oil;y
~.
So great is the demand for exportation beyond the
supply, that the French are compelled to resort to
imitations to supply the deficiency; and to such per–
fection has the system been brought, that by no test,
chemical or otherwise, can these imitations be de–
tected. The question is often asked, what becomes
of the large quantities of whiskey that are shipped
every month to France
t
It is well known in the
latter country that a
good
American corn.
apirit
may
be so amalgamated with the juice of the grape, after
01gi1ized
by