312 TRANSACTIONS OF THE PLYMOUTH INSTITUTION. 
Causes of Roman pessimism. Second class of evidence. Scandals 
true in main, though exaggerated. Mainly confined to the Claudian 
Caesars. Third class of evidence most valuable. The Roman 
writers probably fair samples of the general public. Their tone 
low on some subjects, high on others. Their views on gluttony 
and the treatment of slaves. Peculiar importance of Pliny's 
letters. Contrast between Pliny's description of his female 
acquaintance and Juvenal's picture of women. General conclusion. 
The first century, though bad in one respect, not totally depraved. 
Rather very dissatisfied with itself. This dissatisfaction had 
results both bad and good. In some cases it led to reckless 
luxury and voluptuousness, in others to pessimism. But it also 
led to a seeking after something better, and greatly helped the 
spread of Christianity. 
CHARITY AND CHARITIES. 
SYLLABUS OF LECTURE BY MR. R. N. WORTH, F.G.S. 
(Read 30th January, 1890.) 
Definitions. Charity not the singular form of the plural 
charities. Mediaeval charities. Modern joint-stock charities. 
Fashionable subscriptions. Conscience money. The professional 
philanthropist. Sectarian and political charities. Pauperising 
doles. Injury done by modern charities to children. Poverty 
no crime. Wealth no virtue. A modern idea of the good 
Samaritan. Be just before you are ostentatious. The great need 
of the poorer classes of this country not charities, not even 
charity, but justice. Our charities not a source of pride but 
of shame — the terrible monuments of our social shortcomings. 
Hints at remedies. 
THE OYSTER. 
LECTURE BY MR. G. C. BOURNE, M.A., F.L.S. 
(Read 6th February, 1890.) 
