trttri to tt flan.
ALMONERS FOR THE POOR.
_London, 26th March 1855. Sin—If my reply to your correspondent, "A Loudon Clergyman," has given him the impression that I am perfectly satisfied with "things as they are," either he has very much mistaken or I have very badly expressed my meaning. I quite agree with him that mere donations of money as com- pared with active and energetic deeds of benevolence are not to be spoken of; but I do not agree with hina•in therefore refusing such donations if I can get nothing better. I still believe there are many who are unable to give anything but money; and for those who being able are unwilling to sacrifice a little time and trouble, I have no greater admiration than he has. As to the social and sanitary reforms that are going on, I would refer him to the very successful exertions of Mr. John Simon in the City, and to the various associations for improving the dwellings of the working classes ; and if he will take the trouble to glance over the lists of directors of these societies, I think he will allow that some at least of the rich and influential are in the habit of giving more than their money to the poor. My only object in writing was, that those who cannot be made to see it is their duty to give up time and labour towards ameliorating the condition of their less fortunate fellow creatures, should at any Tate not be permitted the excuse, which I feared your correspondent's letter was calculated to afford them, of withholding their contributions in money. I am not conscious of having expressed, I certainly never felt, any desire to be made acquainted with the name of" A London Clergyman." I simply suggested his declaring it as a means of avoiding for the future the annoy- ance of receiving donations from strangers. In conclusion, I can only say that if I have given your correspondent the slightest offence by anything I have written. I am exceedingly sorry for it ; as he belongs to a class of men for whom I entertain the highest respect, and whose work is perhaps harder, certainly less appreciated, than thatof any body of men of the REMO standing in the country. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, A.I.dawan.
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