The Baptists in Sweden. By Mrs. M.F. Anderson ...

54 THE BAPTISTS IN SWEDEN.
The self-expatriation of those who prefer freedom
of conscience abroad to persecution at home, is
also exerting its influence. In an economical view,
the continuance of such laws as offer a premium for
emigration will be found to be unwise.
In Skania, the agriculturists begin to see the effects
of this. Mr. Brace conversed with a wealthy bonder in that part of Sweden, one who was no friend
to the Readers.
"Does Herr Socken Skrifvaren* know of much
emigration to America from these parts?" said my
companion.
" Many hundreds from my village," he answered.
"Fools they could do much better at home.
Sweden wants every one now. But it is this cursed
Laseri i"
He alluded to the Readers and their doctrine.
"Why, how is that? What have Lisarne to do
with it?"
" They turn every one upside down," he answered.
"They make disturbances and break the law, and
then Herr Resande (Mr. Traveler) knows they
must be punished; and so they go to carry on their
accursed doings in America."t
This is the testimony of one who was no doubt
beginning to feel the economical evil of such large
* That is, Mr. Secretary of the Parish Meeting. Everybody
expects his title in Sieden.
t Norse Folk, p. 406.