MR. REANEY'S POLITICAL ECONOMY.
[To THE EDITOR OP THE "SPECTATOR."]
Sra,—The same day I read your article and Mr. Reaney's letter, I came across the following passage from Lord Shaftesbury's journals (" Life," II., p. 166) :—" May 29/h.—Dined with The courtesies of life and ancient friendship demanded it. A splendid display of luxury and grandeur, yet unsatisfactory. The contrast so great to the places where I have passed so many hours lately, that I felt almost uneasy. The few pounds, too, that I want and shall obtain for the establishment of Ragged Schools, seemed wasted in every dish. All this is very well, according to their wealth and station, now and then ; but the crumbs which fall from their table are in scanty proportion to the number and abundance of their feasts. A greater simplicity, however, even in permitted things, would be more beneficial to the poor, to society, and to themselves." "June 8th.— Oh ! if some Dives would give me £200 or 2300, the price of a picture or a horse, I could set up schools to educate 600 wretched children." "1853. May 28th.—Sent to St. Giles' for two more pictures to be sold. The house is falling and must be repaired ; will not do it from any fund or revenue by which moneys devoted to religion, charity, or cottage-building would be diverted."—I am, Sir, dm,
Fleet House, Weymouth, November 30th. HENRY PETo.
[That is precisely our own argument. Lord Shaftesbury's act was right and noble ; but it would have been neither if done under popular dictation.—En. Spectator.]
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