the security of the public against the commission
of acts, which are too frequently to be deplored as the effect of
insanity. Of all the houses of mourning, that to which poor unhappy
mortals are sent under mental derangement is decidedly the most gloomy.
The idea strikes the imagination with horror, which is considerably
increased by a reflection on the numerous human victims that are
incarcerated within their walls, the discipline they are subjected
to, and the usual pecuniary success which attends the keepers of such
establishments,--where the continuance of the patient is the chief
source of interest, rather than the recovery. That they are useful
in some cases cannot be denied, but there are many instances too well
authenticated to be doubted, where persons desirous of getting rid of
aged and infirm relatives, particularly if they manifested any little
aberration of mind (as is common in advanced age), have consigned them
to these receptacles, from which, through the supposed kindness of
their friends, and the management of the proprietors, they have never
returned. If the parties ail nothing, they are soon driven to insanity
by ill usage, association with unfortunates confined like themselves,
vexation at the treatment, and absolute despair of escape; or if
partially or slightly afflicted, the lucid intervals are prevented,
and the disorder by these means is increased and confirmed by coercion,
irritation of mind, and despair."

~~369~~~ "This is a deplorable picture of the state of things, indeed,"
said Tallyho.

"But it is unvarnished," was the reply; "the picture requires no
imaginary embellishment, since it has its foundation in truth. Then
again, contrast the situation of the confined with the confinera. The
relatives have an interest in the care of the person, and a control over
the property, which in cases of death frequently becomes their own.
The keepers of these receptacles have also an interest in keeping the
relatives in a disposition to forward all their views of retaining the
patient, who, under the representation of being seriously deranged, is
not believed; consequently all is delusion, but the advantages which
ultimately fall to the tender-hearted relative, or the more artful
proprietor of the mad-house; and it is wonderful what immense fortunes
are made by the latter; nay not only by the proprietors, but even
the menials in their employ, many of whom have been known to retire
independent, a ci