Much has frequently been said of the monopoly of coal-owners; "but,"
observes Mr. Macculloch, "we are satisfied, after a pretty careful
investigation of the circumstances, that no such monopoly has ever
existed; and that the high price of coal in the metropolis is to be
ascribed wholly to the various duties and charges that have been laid
upon it, from the time that it has passed from the hands of the owner,
to the time that it is lodged in the cellar of the consumer."--_Dict.
Commerce, &c._ 1832.
* * * * *