Once again, we see Mompellion argue that suffering is a good thing. It's like a daily vitamin. While he might not be entirely incorrect, this passage becomes increasingly ironic as the novel goes on. Check out "Quote #10" in this section for more insight into this issue.

We can imagine that would be bizarre. Mompellion was not necessarily trying to make some grand political statement by suggesting that the villagers remain in town, but it's such a powerful gesture that it resonates throughout England.