POPULAR ADMIRATION FOR GREAT THIEVES

Too Long; Didn't Read

Jack. Where shall we find such another set of practical philosophers who, to a man, are above the fear of death? Wat. Sound men and true! Robin. Of tried courage and indefatigable industry! Ned. Who is there here that would not die for his friend? Harry. Who is there here that would betray him for his interest? Mat. Show me a gang of courtiers that could say as much! Dialogue of thieves in the Beggars' Opera. Whether it be that the multitude, feeling the pangs of poverty, sympathise with the daring and ingenious depredators who take away the rich man's superfluity, or whether it be the interest that mankind in general feel for the records of perilous adventures, it is certain that the populace of all countries look with admiration upon great and successful thieves. Perhaps both these causes combine to invest their career with charms in the popular eye. Almost every country in Europe has its traditional thief, whose exploits are recorded with all the graces of poetry, and whose trespasses—