More than twelve years ago, I was a slave to tobacco, and as I was conscientious and ashamed of the habit, it became a torment to me.
My sisters, brothers, and myself were musicians, and at that time did a great deal of public playing together. When away from home and stopping at hotels, they would rest in the parlors, and the most pleasant places, while I, because of my appetite for the weed, was compelled to remain in the smoking room with strangers. Thus I was shut out from good society, and away from friends, as well as the more pleasant surroundings. For this and other reasons, I was very desirous of overcoming the habit, but try as I would I could not succeed. I would cease using it at times, but could not get rid of my desire for it, and sooner or later would yield to its seeming power, indulging more than ever.
One day I made my usual vow, and an employee agreed with me that, after a-certain date, we would not again use tobacco.
