arranged for the villagers. It is common to see in the papers
appeals made on behalf of the poor children of crowded districts in
London, for funds to give them a day in the country. It is stated
that they never see anything but stone pavements; never breathe
anything but smoky air. The appeal is a proper and good one, and
should be generously responded to. Now, the position of the villager
is the exact antithesis. He, or she, sees nothing but green fields
or bare fields all the year round. They hear nothing but a constant
iteration of talk about cattle, crops, and weather--important
matters, but apt to grow monotonous. It may be, that for thirty
years they never for one day lose sight of the hills overhanging the
village. Their subjects of conversation are consequently extremely
narrow. They want a change quite as much as the dwellers in cities;
but it is a change of another character--a change to bustle and
excitement. Factories and large tradesmen arrange trips for their
work-people once or twice a year. Why should not the agricultural
labourers have a trip? A trip of the simplest kind would satisfy
them, and afford matter of conversation for months. All railway
lines now issue tickets at reduced rates for parties above a certain
number. For instance, to the population of an inland village, what
would be more delightful than a few hours on the sea-beach? Where
the sea is not within easy reach, take them to a great town--if
possible, London--but if not London, any large town will be a
change. There is no great difficulty in the plan. Perhaps twenty or
thirty would be the largest number who would wish to go. Let these
assemble at a stated hour and place, and take them down to the
railway-station with two or three waggons and teams, which should
also meet them on their return. The expense would not be great, and
might be partly borne by the excursionists themselves. All that is
wanted is some amount of leadership, a little organization. Such
enterprises as these would go far to create a genuine mutual
understanding and pleasant feeling between employer and employed.
There may be outlying places where such an excursion would be very
difficult. Then harness the horses to the waggons, and take them to
a picnic ten miles off on a noted hill or heath, or by the side of a
river--somewhere for a change.

To return to more serious matters. Perhaps it would be as well if
the first endeavour of such a local authority were addr