On Labourers' Cottages. 



187 



But in adding to the number of cottages on our estates, there 

 should, of course, be a limit, or we may fall into evils of another 

 kind. That limit may easily be drawn, either by the proprietor 

 himself, or by an intelligent steward, and made to agree with the 

 reasonable wants of the districts or parishes in which his employer's 

 estates are situated. 



To improve the dwellings of the labouring class, and afford 

 them the means of greater cleanliness, health, and comfort, in 

 their own homes, to extend education, and thus raise the social 

 and moral habits of those most valuable members of the com- 

 munity, are among the first duties, and ought to be among the 

 truest pleasures, of every landlord. While he thus cares for 

 those whom Providence has committed to his charge, he will 

 teach them that reliance on the exertion of the faculties with 

 which they are endowed is the surest way to their own independ- 

 ence and the well-being of their families. 



I shall not dwell, as I might, on the undeniable advantages of 

 making the rural population contented with their condition, and 

 of promoting that mutual good-will between the landed pro- 

 prietor and the tenants and labourers on his estate, which sound 

 policy and the hig-her motives of humanity alike recommend. 



Having lately had the pleasure of visiting with you some of 

 the cottages on your estate in Sussex, knowing the interest you 

 take in the subject, and having witnessed your success in carry- 

 ing into effect the views we alike entertain upon it, it is gratifying 

 to me to be able to address this communication to you as President 

 of the Royal Agricultural Society for the present year. 



I remain, my dear Lord Chichester, with sincere regard and 

 esteem, faithfully yours, 



Bedford. 



Woburn Abbey, March, 1849o 



Plans, Sfc. 



