ABSTRACT
In a review of the book Charities of London, by Sampson Low, an anonymous writer sees charity as a bane to society. There is much in the aspect and the tendencies of age and country that is encouraging and gratifying. To relieve distress, whether arising from accident or want, is not only the impulse of benevolent and cultured feelings, but a healthy natural instinct—an instinct which, in a rude and simple state of society, might probably be indulged with safety. The goad of necessity, or some equally urgent stimulus, is needed to arouse men in general to that steady industry under which alone individuals can flourish, and civilization can advance. The popular idea which lies at the root of, and sustains, present system of parochial relief is, that indigence—however brought about—is entitled to prey upon property; that the idle and improvident have a right to share the earnings of the frugal and industrious.
