“Of course,” answered the can. “You see, if food is very plentiful it does not cost so much because there is enough for everybody; but when it is scarce it costs more because there is only enough for those who can afford to pay a high price.”
“Oh, so people who buy food and waste it make it scarcer, and prevent the poorer people from getting it at a lower price,” said Robert.
“Good! I see you understand!” cried the garbage can. “Not only is what you say true, but the fact is that the poor people who waste food are often kept poor because they throw away what they could save. A slice of bread a day amounts to about a dollar and fifty cents a year! Better to watch the garbage can!”
The can stopped suddenly as the rumble of a wagon sounded in the street.
“It is the garbage collector!” he exclaimed delightedly. “If it were not for him, I am sure I don’t know what I should do!”
“Good-by,” said Robert, who did not care to have the collector see him talking with a garbage can. “I thank you for the lesson, Mr. Can.”
“Good-by,” muttered the garbage can; and then his face melted away and Robert woke up.
QUESTIONS
Why would doctors have to work many times as hard as they do if there were no garbage collectors?
How do the garbage collectors help in keeping people well?