have enriched themselves by those practices which have deprived
the frame-workers of employment. For instance;--by the adoption of
a certain kind of frame, one man performs the work of seven--six
are thus thrown out of business. But it is to be observed that the
work thus done is far inferior in quality, hardly marketable at
home, and hurried over with a view to exportation. Surely, my Lord,
however we may rejoice in any improvement in the arts which may be
beneficial to mankind, we must not allow mankind to be sacrificed
to improvements in mechanism. The maintenance and well-doing of the
industrious poor is an object of greater consequence to the
community than the enrichment of a few monopolists by any
improvement in the implements of trade, which deprives the workman
of his bread, and renders the, labourer "unworthy of his hire." My
own motive for opposing the bill is founded on its palpable
injustice, and its certain inefficacy. I have seen the state of
these miserable men, and it is a disgrace to a civilised country.
Their excesses may be condemned, but cannot be subject of wonder.
The effect of the present bill would be to drive them into actual
rebellion. The few words I shall venture to offer on Thursday will
be founded upon these opinions formed from my own observations on
the spot. By previous enquiry, I am convinced these men would have
been restored to employment, and the county to tranquillity. It is,
perhaps, not yet too late, and is surely worth the trial. It can
never be too late to employ force in such circumstances. I believe
your Lordship does not coincide with me entirely on this subject,
and most cheerfully and sincerely shall I submit to your superior
judgment and experience, and take some other line of argument
against the bill, or be silent altogether, should you deem it more
advisable. Condemning, as every one must condemn, the conduct of
these wretches, I believe in the existence of grievances which call
rather for pity than punishment. I have the honour to be, with
great respect, my Lord, your Lordship's

"Most obedient and obliged servant,

"BYRON.

"P.S. I am a little apprehensive that your Lordship will think me
too lenient towards these men, and half a _framebreaker myself_."

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