Page:Wrong and Right Methods of Dealing with Social Evil - Elizabeth Blackwell (1883).djvu/31

Rh system is presented by Mr. Snagge. The weighty character of his evidence is shown by the peculiar nature of his appointment as the special agent of the British Government. Mr. Snagge is an able London barrister, committed to no party or prejudice. This gentleman was chosen and specially appointed by Lord Granville to examine conflicting statements. He was directed to investigate impartially the system in Brussels, and to ascertain the truth or falsehood of the allegations respecting the trade in English girls as connected with that system. Valuable personal evidence is also furnished by members of the Society of Friends, viz.: Mr. Gillet, the esteemed banker, and Mr. Dyer, gentlemen whose names are widely and honorably known.

The chief remarkable difference between the structure of English and of foreign society is the powerful legal organization of female vice which has grown up on the continent.

Mr. Snagge thus describes the manner of life laid down for the girls in licensed brothels by the Brussels municipal authorities. It must be observed that this system, as it grows stronger, always tends to drive women into brothels, on account of the greater ease and efficiency of their management by the police.

"The women in these houses are subjected to obligations without number. They are forced to yield