nd suffering were so much
more faithfully and kindly cared for, that there was a constant overflow
of poverty from the other districts of the city into this. Public charity,
when thoroughly systematized, is liable to the still stronger objection,
that those who are able to give relief, in ceasing to feel the necessity,
lose the will and the capacity of benevolent effort. Yet, were there no
public provision for the poor, there would be cases of destitution,
disease, disability, and mental imbecility, which would elude private
charity, however diligent and generous. It must be remembered, too, that
the same causes may at once enhance the demand for beneficent aid, and
cripple its resources. Thus, in a conflagration, a flood, a dearth, or a
commercial panic, while the stress of need among the poor is greatly
intensified, the persons on whose charity, under ordinary circumstances,
they could place the most confident reliance, may be among the chief
sufferers. Thus, also, during the prevalence of infectious disease, a
large proportion of those who are wont to perform the offices of humanity
for the suffering, are withdrawn by their own fears, or those of their
friends, from their wonted field of service. Then, too, there are various
forms of disease and infirmity, which demand special treatment or a
permanent asylum; and while institutions designed to meet these wants are
more wisely and economically administered under private than under public
auspices, the state should never suffer them to fail or languish for lack
of subsidy from private sources. The most desirable condition of things
undoubtedly is that--more nearly realized in France than in any other
country in Christendom--in which the relief of the poor and suffering in
ordinary cases, and the charge of charitable institutions to a large
degree, are left to individuals, voluntary organizations, and religious
fraternities and sisterhoods, while government supplements and subsidizes
private charity where it is found inadequate to the need.

The demands upon beneficence are by no means exhausted, when material
relief and aid have been bestowed. Indeed, alms are often given as a
purchase of quitclaim for personal service. But the manifestation and
expression of sympathy may make the gift of immeasurably more worth and
efficacy. Considerate courtesy, delicacy, and gentleness are essential
parts of beneficence. There are very few so abject that they do not feel
insulted and