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of it, in so far as the old habitues of vice and
filth are concerned; but it would have its influence
on the young, and would gradually
accustom them to better habits of life, to a higher
standard of sociality, and to the advantages as well
as refinements of proper house accommodation.
All this, too, might be accomplished without
trespassing on the bounds of charity, or making it
other than a common business transaction; for
there is hardly any property out of the main
thoroughfares of this City which pays better than
the miserable houses inhabited by the poor. The
substantial aid of the philanthropist may, it is true,
do something for such a purpose; and we may rest
our faith upon the probable results of so noble
a gift as that of Mr. Peabody's; but to be a certain
or even possible good, the results must flow not
from a charitable exercise of the gift, but from
a truly commercial management of it. It must be
made, like the capital and influence of the merchant,
to grow in its dimensions and importance,
and not to dwindle into the mere nothingness of
an abstract philanthropy. It should become the
medium of education and social improvement, as
well as the means of providing for the immediate
wants of the destitute. All this must be accomplished
without a show of charity, and without
offence to the self respect and independence of the
poor; for it is my experience, that whatsoever is