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209 [1904
years old, as compared respectively with averages for eight years of 3,699,
2,382 and 1,317.
Indoor Paupers.—Inclusive of children these averaged 3,622 per week,
as against an eight years' average of 3.347, or an increase of 275. In 1896
the weekly average was 710 fewer than this return. Here, again, we are given
a very significant indication as to the state of trade.
Vagrants Relieved.—Even a still more significant item in these returns
is the large increase in the number of vagrants relieved. From 1896 to 1903
tiiey averaged only 17 per week, while in 1904 this number rose to 65. In
other words, whereas in the eight years the number of vagrants relieved per
annum wa= 884, in 1904 it was 3,380, or an increase of 2,496.
Children Boarded Out.-The number of children boarded out
averaged 122 throughout the year, as compared with 119 in the preceding
eight years. It is satisfactory to note that the Guardians have not relaxed in
their dispensation of this description of »jlief. As there can be no doubt it is
the best form in which to grant it to children, it is to be regretted that
more children are not sent out.

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