it, and it can be easily conceived that many a landlord, speaking neither the language, nor
The effects of subdivision are very bad; first, the land is cut into such small patches, that a plough and horses, in many cases, will hardly turn in the field; and a large quantity of ground is lost in fences; habits of slovenliness and idleness is increased; and, as I have already stated, the most subdivided leases are the worst paid, although cheap, and the places are in the worst condition. I oppose subdivision all I can, but there is no duty connected with the management of property more difficult to be performed. . . . The sons have been brought up ignorant of any other occupation . . . . What are they to do? . . . . Subletting also prevails to a very large extent. The high prices that weavers will give for houses and small gardens offer great temptations to the farmer."—Dig. Dev. p. 425.
Evidence of J. V. Stuart, Esq. Land Proprietor, and Magistrate.
"In answer to that question I should state a practice which exists only in this country, and in a very remote part of it, and it is this, that they have gone on subdividing so far that instead of its being called a 'cow's grass' it is gone down to the "cow's foot, which is one-fourth of a cow's grass—nay, they have gone so low as a "cow's toe,' which is one-eighth of a cow's grass."To what extent is the subletting or subdividing of farms carried out, and is it permitted by the landlords?—Subletting or subdividing existed formerly to a great extent, and it is still universal where the landlord or agent is not most vigilant; it is generally to provide for tenants' children, but often to exact income from cottiers. Its effects are certain, and generally proximate pauperism; generally it is against the landlord's consent, and is prevented by limiting the quantity of fuel. Ejectment is an example, and watchfulness on the part of the bailiff when it can be secured."What are the effects of subletting on the accumulation and introduction of capital, and also on population?—It puts an absolute stop to the accumulation of capital, in the same proportion that consolidation assists its accumulation; and, if carried to any extent, the ground ultimately produces little
