"That's better than the other case," said Mrs. Wishart.
"But what could be done, Mr. Dillwyn?" said Lois from her corner. "It seems as if something was wrong. But how could it be mended?"
"I want Mrs. Wishart to consider of that."
"I can't consider it!" said the lady. "I suppose it is intended that there should be poor people always, to give us something to do."
"Then let us do it."
"How?"
"I am not certain; but I make a suggestion. Suppose all the ladies of this city devoted their diamonds to this purpose. Then any number of dwelling-houses could be put up; separate, but so arranged as to be warmed by steam from a general centre, at a merely nominal cost for each one; well ventilated and comfortable; so putting an end to the enormity of tenement houses. Then a commission might be established to look after the rights of the poor; to see that they got proper wages, were not cheated, and that all should have work who wanted it. So much might be done."
"With no end of money."
"I proposed to take the diamonds of the city, you know."
"And why just the diamonds?" inquired Mrs. Wishart. "Why don't you speak of some of the indulgences of the men? Take the horses—or the wines—"