276 New Character assumed by Beggars. 



The general description given of Lough Erne 

 induces a supposition that it possesses more of 

 the characteristics of beauty than any of the 

 other lakes in Ireland. We had now great 

 reason to regret that our original arrangements 

 for this tour had not been better made ; hav- 

 ing started too late in the season for such a 

 journey as we had undertaken. At Beelick 

 are the remains of an unfinished canal. The 

 completion of this work would have been at- 

 tended with many advantages to the country. 



We were yesterday somewhat surprised with 

 the new character assumed by the mendicants, 

 who travel here en famille. The heads of each 

 party are furnished with sacks, cans, and some- 

 times tea-kettles. Few refuse to supply them 

 either with potatoes or butter-milk. So ex- 

 tended are the rights of hospitality in this 

 country, that any stranger entering a house at 

 meal times may, without ceremony, sit down 

 and partake with the family. Distress never 

 fails to moisten the eye, and wants no advocate 

 to reach the heart of an Irishman. 



There is a vivacity in the common people 

 that both interests and amuses great fertility 

 in expedients, and consummate good humour 

 in . tolerating grievances. John Bull would be 



