and Present" sets the stage for an exploration of England's dire conditions, where despite abundant resources and a capable workforce, many workers languish in poverty without meaningful employment. Carlyle describes this societal malaise through vivid imagery and poignant examples, such as the suffering of the unemployed workers in workhouses. He introduces the metaphor of Midas, likening the enchantment of wealth that brings no happiness or fulfillment to the plight of the English populace. By posing urgent philosophical queries about justice, labor, and the human condition, Carlyle urges a recognition of inner truth and moral integrity that he believes are essential for societal redemption. The opening serves to engage readers with the pressing issues of his time, calling for reflection and action in the face of injustice and despair. (This is an automatically generated summary.)