Some accidental circumstances have also had their
influence. More and better English alliances have
been formed in Guernsey, than in Jersey. The
greater attractions of Guernsey society, and the less
temptation which the higher "prices of Guernsey have
held out to residents, have brought to that island a
somewhat superior class of strangers; and I would add,
that the residence of Lord De Saumarez on his patrimonial
ground, has also had its influence in raising the
tone of society.
If I am asked, where are the proofs of superior
civilization,—I may answer, that none are required;
since it is impossible, that the different circumstances
in which Guernsey and Jersey are placed, could fail to
produce a difference in their respective states of society.
But this superiority is seen in a thousand things, it
is observable, in more varied topics of conversation ;
in more extended, and more liberal views; in more
amenity of m anner; in greater respect for talent and
acquirements; above all, in a more perfect understanding
of the English language, which not only
facilitates an acquaintance with those models which
cannot be studied without corresponding effects; but
excludes the use of a dialect which is as unsuited
to civilized life, as are the habits of the people among
whom it was employed two centuries ago.
The state of Guernsey society, and the nature of
social intercourse, are nearly the same as these are
found in any other place where there is an equal
portion of wealth and civilization. Much has been
said, and many jibes have been indulged, on the subject
of Guernsey exclusiveness; and the strictness of
the line which separates classes, has been both complained
of and ridiculed. The exclusses have been
called “ sixties,”—the second class, “ forties,”—and it
has been even said, that the number of candles carried
in a lantern, indicates the class to which the individual
profiting by it, belongs. That there is an aristocracy
in Guernsey, is true ; and that there is a strict line of
demarcation between trade, and those who live, and
have always lived without it, is most true: but I do
not know, that the distinction which obtains in Guernsey,
is at all different from that which is observed in
any town where there is a resident gentry. If the
exclusive privileges of an aristocracy, were limited to
the comparatively harmless pride of forming a society
among themselves, it would be well. The people
would nowhere grudge this. At the same time, I am
no advocate for an exclusiveness, which prefers a coat
of arms, to a cultivated mind, and gentlemanly manners
: and in these days, I do not think society requires
a code of laws to keep it in order. Society
naturally falls into different levels ; and I think, should
be left to find them. I question whether artificial
props are wise inventions.
There is no reason to doubt, that the natural course
of events, will correct whatever is amiss ; and that the
progress of intelligence, the growth and more equal
distribution of wealth, and the other causes which are
silently effecting changes throughout the world—and
especially in England, will break down those barriers
which were reared by the superior intelligence, the
superior refinement, and the more ample means of
gratifying taste, once possessed by the aristocracy;
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