the most distinguished men in Australia, Europe, and America, and also dwelt upon the noble efforts of many of my countrymen to alleviate distress, and improve institutions and systems. He listened attentively throughout the whole, and when I had resumed my seat, remarked,—
“I have not the least doubt but you have a very large number of able and philanthropic men among you. Indeed, I had already arrived at that conclusion before you began speaking, from what you had previously said in a casual manner. However, from what little I understand of your affairs, I am inclined to believe that it is not systems so much as individuals that require, reforming. Of course, at the same time, it is obvious that bad systems will corrupt individuals, but it by no means follows that good systems will produce just individuals. Something more is required. And, again, it is a much easier matter to sketch out and organize systems than to improve individuals. Further, I am of the opinion that the great error your reformers and statesmen make, is in endeavouring to make a beginning at the top rather than at the bottom of the scale, where they should endeavour to end rather than begin.”
I now, however, began to feel dozy,—I always do
