CONVERSATION VII.
Uncle Philip talks to the Children about Animals that throw Dirt with a Spade; and about an Animal with a Hook; and about one that is a Wire-drawer.
"Boys, I have some men at work digging a small ditch for me, and I wish to see them; will you go with me?"
"Oh, yes—very gladly, Uncle Philip; for you will be sure to tell us of something curious before we come home."
"Come on, then: yonder are the men at work; they have been very industrious, I see."
"But, Uncle Philip, look! There is one of the men putting a bottle to his mouth. Is that right?"
"Yes, boys, right enough; for the bottle has nothing but molasses and water in it; and the man is thirsty, I suppose. I would not employ him if he brought a bottle of spirits out with him, for two reasons. In the first place, I think that I ought not to encourage a man who gets drunk, by employing him; for I would rather give my money to a sober man who will not spend it for rum and brandy, but will take care of his family: and, in the second place, a drunkard would not work faithfully without being watched all the time. I never knew a drunkard who was really and honestly an industrious man."
"See, Uncle Philip, how strong that man is; what a large spadeful of dirt he throws out!"