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The Italians are very
good to the poor, but the tradesman out of work must become a beggar
before charity can help him.
We, who are poor enough to be wise, consult foolishly together concerning
the Mouse. It blesses him that gives, and him that takes--this business of
charity. And then, there is something irresistibly relishing and splendid
in the consciousness of being the instrument of a special providence! Have
I all my life admired those beneficent characters in novels and comedies
who rescue innocence, succor distress, and go about pressing gold into the
palm of poverty, and telling it to take it and be happy; and now shall I
reject an occasion, made to my hand, for emulating them in real life?
"I think I will give the Mouse five francs," I say.
"Yes, certainly."
"But I will be prudent," I continue. "I will not give him this money. I
will tell him it is a loan which he may pay me back again whenever he can.
In this way I shall relieve him now, and furnish him an incentive to
economy.


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