SAVING POWER OF THE WORKING CLASS.
[TO THE EDTTOR 07 TEl "SPECTATOR."]
SIR,—In the Spectator of April 15th you say in footnote to "R.N.B.'s " letter : " It is invidious and disagreeable in a high degree for the well-to-do to write as we are writing now," &o. (that is with regard to the saving powers of the poor). Would you be so kind as to give me a lesson on thrift P I have a family of five children, the three eldest of whom are at school.
They, of course, benefit from Free Education, still, books have to be supplied and paid for. My wage per week for fifty weeks in the year is 30s. As you would expect me to live in a respectable neighbourhood, I pay 3s. 10d. per week for rent ; for municipal and poor rates, Is. per week. You will also expect me, my wife, and children to attend a place of worship. An allowance of ls. 3d. per week must be made for seat rent and collections. Further Is. 9d. per week is paid for society and sick benefit assurance. Divide the remainder for food, clothing, light, and fuel. In the matter of clothing you will base your estimate on good wearing qualities. Allow some- thing for incidental expenses, then tell me what I might save and how. These are the circumstances of hundreds e working men in this locality.—I am, Sir, &o., JOHN WILSON. [On his own showing Mr. Wilson is saving Is. 9d. a week.— En. Spectator.]
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