86

frequented part of the Country until such time as they think themselves in less danger, either from the attractions of their women or the Mouldering incidents of time. This injurious and inhuman treatment, must operate considerably against an Increase of population and proves likewise to be a check upon Industry. Exiled in a manner from their Country & relatives, (generally when under Manhood) they often seek an asylum in barren recesses, where the want of necessaries, combined with other causes, expose them to much hardship and sometimes, I am afraid, to inevitable destruction. From the unprincipled conduct of their Neighbours, it may not be incongruous to think that they have caught a slight tincture of the infection from example. It is certain at least that they act upon

[86]