Note p — Chapter IX · [a]
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I am inclined to acquiesce in this general opinion; yet an account of expenses at Bolton Abbey, about the reign of Edward II., published in Whitaker's History of Craven, p. 51, makes a very scanty show of almsgiving in this opulent monastery. Much, however, was no doubt given in victuals. But it is a strange error to conceive that English monasteries before the dissolution fed the indigent part of the nation, and gave that general relief which the poor-laws are intended to afford.
Piers Plowman is indeed a satirist; but he plainly charges the monks with want of charity.
Little had lordes to do to give landes from their heires To religious that have no ruthe though it raine on their aultres; In many places there the parsons be themself at ease, Of the poor they have no pitie and that is their poor charitie.