There are few sections of the population who deserve more
sym- pathy than the indigent aged. The young, at the worst, have physical vigour, and better days to look forward to. The old are only waiting patiently for the end. Let them at least wait in what little comfort can be provided. That is not a question only of money ; the aged need companionship and sometimes care. For that reason I am par- ticularly glad to hear of a venture launched—with characteristically practical philanthropy—by some members of the Society of Friends, who have formed the Swarthmore Housing Society to acquire suitable houses in different parts of the country where old people can be accommodated, given their meals and some domestic help and the use of a common-room and library: The estimated cost is 45s. a person, so that the old-age pension will need to be supplemented to some extent. The Society is raising its funds through Ordinary shares, 2-} per cent, loan stock and donations. If anyone feels the impulse to lend a hand I can supply particulars.
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