Eu. It is a hard Matter for me to answer to all these Points exactly: First of all, there should be an Inclination to be helpful to all, and after that, the Proportion must be according to my Ability, as Opportunity should offer; and especially to those whom I know to be poor and honest; and when my own Purse fail'd me, I would exhort others to Charity.
Ti. But will you give us Leave now to discourse freely in your Dominions?
Eu. As freely as if you were at Home at your own Houses.
Ti. You don't love vast Expences upon Churches, you say, and this House might have been built for less than it was.
Eu. Indeed, I think this House of mine to be within the Compass of cleanly and convenient, far from Luxury, or I am mistaken. Some that live by begging, have built with more State; and yet, these Gardens of Mine, such as they are, pay a Tribute to the Poor; and I daily lessen my Expence, and am the more frugal in Expence upon myself and Family, that I may contribute the more plentifully to them.
Ti. If all Men were of your Mind, it would be better than it is with a good many People who deserve better, that are now in extreme Want; and on the other Hand, many of those pamper'd Carcases would be brought down, who deserve to be taught Sobriety and Modesty by Penury.
Eu. It may be so: but shall I mend your mean Entertainment now, with the best Bit at last?
Ti. We have had more than enough of Delicacies already.
Eu. That which I am now about to give you, let your Bellies be never so full, won't over-charge your Stomachs.
Ti. What is it?