202 THE MODERN HISTORY OF SILK. 



in the treatment of the animal, and other circum- 

 stances ; for we consider the climate as much better 

 adapted, than that of the sister island, for the breed- 

 ing of this animal. We have no doubt, but if still 

 persevered in, it might ultimately prove of great and 

 extensive benefit to the peasantry of that country. 

 As we have before hinted, it is our firm belief, that 

 in time the insect might become naturalized to this 

 latitude, under the guidance and fostering care of 

 man. For we have seen in the higher animals, that 

 they have been brought by degrees to breed and 

 thrive in our island, although the temperature is widely 

 different from their own. 



Lord Kingston, with the most patriotic zeal, used 

 every effort to propagate the worm, and benefit his 

 native land ; but in his efforts he has not been 

 assisted. In the year 1827, that nobleman had 

 upwards of thirty thousand mulberry trees growing 

 upon his estates in Ireland, and these in the most 

 flourishing and healthy condition. He had sent to 

 market in 1830 a considerable quantity of raw silk, 

 of the best quality. But, we fear, the restless genius 

 of the peasantry is ill adapted for an employment, 

 where assiduity and careful attention are required. 

 In this opinion, we think we are borne out by the 

 fate which has attended the manufactories of cotton 

 lace. The low price of labour induced a belief that 

 these might be successfully cultivated ; but a com- 

 bination of circumstances has blighted the hopes of 

 (be public spirited individuals who introduced them. 



