They are poor, and
therefore the more easily wrought up to outrage; they are poor, and
think that any change must be for the better; they are not only poor,
but imaginative, and the fittest recipients for those vague speculations
by which they are deluded. Let their condition be improved, and the most
fertile source of popular tumult and crime is closed. Let them be taught
how to labor: let them not be bowed to the earth by rents so far above
the real value of their lands. The pernicious maxims which float among
them must be refuted--not by theory, but by practical lessons performed
before their eyes for their own advantage. Let them be taught how to
discriminate between their real interests and their prejudices; and none
can teach them all this so effectually as their landlords, if they could
be roused from their apathy, and induced to undertake the task. Who ever
saw a poor nation without great crimes?"
"Very true, O'Brien; quite true. I am resolved to inspect personally
the condition of those who reside on my other estates. But now about our
protege? How is he doing?"
"Extremely well. I have had a letter from him a few days ago, in which
he alludes to the interest you have taken in himself and his family,
with a depth of feeling truly affecting."
"When you write to him, let him know that I have placed his father in
his old farm; and that Carson is out. Say I am sure he will conduct
himself properly, in which case I charge myself with his expenses until
he shall have accomplished his purpose.
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