J. Ewing (James Ewing) Ritchie
The New Sunday Liquor Law Vindicated
"The New Sunday Liquor Law Vindicated" by J. Ewing Ritchie is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book discusses the implications of the New Beer Bill, which mandated closures of public houses on Sundays except during limited hours. It examines the social and legal ramifications of the law as well as the various public responses, particularly from publicans, who feel threatened by the changes to their trade. Ritchie seeks to defend the legislation by arguing that it benefits society by reducing drunkenness and its associated issues. In the text, Ritchie presents evidence supporting the law's effectiveness in decreasing crime and public drunkenness since its implementation. He challenges the narrative propagated by the publicans and their supporters, arguing that the complaints about the lack of Sunday access to alcohol primarily serve the interests of the alcohol trade rather than the welfare of the working class. Ritchie highlights testimonies from working men and respectable publicans who favor the new restrictions, demonstrating a broad societal approval for the law aimed at improving public morality and social conditions. Ultimately, he calls for support of the law, suggesting that the outcry from publicans is self-serving and detrimental to societal welfare.