PREFACE. SINCE the first sheet of this publication was sent to the press, Friendly Societies and Savings Banks have excited increased interest; and some of the learned Judges have, in their circuits, called the attention of the public to them as the means whereby pauperism may be prevented, and the peasantry and workmen restored to that state of comparative independence which is essential to their well being, and necessary to the peace and happiness of society. The labourer by becoming a member of a Friendly Society, constituted upon a correct principle, may avoid the degradation of receiving parochial relief, and it therefore behoves the landed proprietors, merchants, and manufacturers to give their attention to the rules and calculations, and see that they are approved of by competent persons, that the confidence of the members may not be abused. With regard to Savings Banks, they form an auxiliary to Friendly Societies, in enabling the labourer to preserve and accumulate any money he may have beyond what is required for his support and periodical contributions to the latter; and, to persons of small capital, they present a safe and profitable investment. The Author will be happy if this attempt to digest the statutes and decisions on these subjects shall be favourably appreciated by the public. CONTENTS. PART I.-FRIENDLY SOCIETIES.. 67 |