Goody Two-Shoes - A Facsimile Reproduction of the Edition of 1766 by Anonymous
page 15 of 86 (17%)
page 15 of 86 (17%)
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called _Graspall_, he was effectually ruined.
The Case was thus. The Parish of _Mouldwell_ where they lived, had for many Ages been let by the Lord of the Manor into twelve different Farms, in which the Tenants lived comfortably, brought up large Families, and carefully supported the poor People who laboured for them; until the Estate by Marriage and by Death came into the Hands of Sir _Timothy_. This Gentleman, who loved himself better than all his Neighbours, thought it less Trouble to write one Receipt for his Rent than twelve, and Farmer _Graspall_ offering to take all the Farms as the Leases expired, Sir _Timothy_ agreed with him, and in Process of Time he was possessed of every Farm, but that occupied by little _Margery's_ Father; which he also wanted; for as Mr. _Meanwell_ was a charitable good Man, he stood up for the Poor at the Parish Meetings, and was unwilling to have them oppressed by Sir _Timothy_, and this avaricious Farmer.--Judge, oh kind, humane and courteous Reader, what a terrible Situation the Poor must be in, when this covetous Man was perpetual Overseer, and every Thing for their Maintenance was drawn from his hard Heart and cruel Hand. But he was not only perpetual Overseer, but perpetual Church-warden; and judge, oh ye Christians, what State the Church must be in, when supported by a Man without Religion or Virtue. He was also perpetual Surveyor of the Highways, and what Sort of Roads he kept up for the Convenience of Travellers, those best know who have had the Misfortune to be obliged to pass thro' that Parish.--Complaints indeed were made, but to what Purpose are Complaints, when brought against a Man, who can hunt, drink, and smoak with the Lord of the Manor, who is also the Justice of Peace? |
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