"We have no such national institution for the breeding of beggars in
Scotland," said Moodie, from behind.

"Is it because Scotland is too poor to maintain paupers?" inquired
Mrs. Shortridge.

"It is because it is not natural for a Scotchman to be a beggar,"
replied Moodie, with patriotic pride.

"We cannot carry the system much further in England," said L'Isle;
"the resources of the country, and the sturdy character of the people,
are breaking down under it."

"Could our British population be brought down to as low a condition as
these people?" Lady Mabel asked.

"Assuredly not," said Mrs. Shortridge.

"Have you ever been in Ireland?" asked L'Isle.

No, neither of the ladies had been there.

"Or in an English poor-house?"

That, too, was _terra incognita_, especially to Lady Mabel.

"Either of them might assist you in finding an answer to a very
difficult question. Still, like Moodie, I have great faith in race,
and in the fitness of climates to races. There is something enervating
to a northern race in these subtropical climates. While the powers of