The Little World

In which a band of intrepids were surprised to discover the affection in which they were held.

And surprised in no cheerful manner – for the dispensers of space and goodness to which they had become accustomed showed that favour could be withdrawn as easily as offered. In short, they were given the elbow.

It was a nuisance, and a disappointment, and a great boon – for it taught a lesson in dependence that independence rarely does. If you beg at a gate, the gate can swing shut in a second.

When you depend upon a public institution for accommodation, you hold no lease save indulgence. If this is taken away, you have no recourse. But you do have a great lesson for next time: obtain a lease upon any premises you wish to occupy.