15 DECEMBER 1917, Page 13

THE CONSCRIPTION OF CAPITAL.

Pro Tar Emma or um grecuroa."1

Sra,—Is not the essential point in connexion with this proposal contained in the fable of "The Prudent Tiger " told by the writer who styled himself "George Washington Aesop " 2-- " A prudent tiger, having observed a procession bearing the remains of a sainted Brahmin to the tomb, communicated the in- telligence to his wife, who said: 'My dear, we are almost out of meat, and though the deceased from the austerities of his pious life was in poor condition, I make no doubt that among his sur- viving friends we may find others more succulent." Miserable tigress,' exclaimed her lord, 'cannot you see that if we permit the deceased to be canonised, pilgrimages will be instituted to his tomb, and the producer and consumer will be brought together in accordance with the true principles of political economy? Rather let us then offer a chromo for each new pilgrim.' This prudent advice being followed, the tiger enjoyed a free breakfast-table to the end of his days.

Moral: Beware of breaking the egg that batches the golden goose."