First Memoir on Pauperism, First Part, Post 1

On the progressive development of pauperism in modern countries and the means employed to combat it.

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When one travels through the different countries of Europe, one is struck by an extraordinary and seemingly inexplicable spectacle.

Countries that appear to be the poorest are those that, in reality, count the fewest indigents, whilst among the peoples whose opulence you admire, a part of the population, in order to live, is obliged to resort to contributions from others.

Travel through the English countryside and you will believe yourself transported to the Eden of modern civilization.  Magnificently maintained roads, clean new homes, fat herds loitering in rich meadows, farmers full of strength and health, more dazzling wealth than in any other country in the world, simple ease, more luxurious, and better provided for than anywhere else; everywhere the look of care, well-being, and leisure; an air of universal prosperity that one seems to breathe in from the atmosphere itself and that makes the heart quiver at each step: this is how England looks to the traveler at first glance.

Now, enter into the interior of the communities; examine the parish registers and you will discover with inexpressible astonishment that a sixth of the residents of this thriving kingdom lives on public charity.