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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, Solaris Farm, by Milan C. Edson
+
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+
+
+
+Title: Solaris Farm
+       A Story of the Twentieth Century
+
+
+Author: Milan C. Edson
+
+
+
+Release Date: February 23, 2010  [eBook #31373]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SOLARIS FARM***
+
+
+E-text prepared by David Clarke, Martin Pettit, and the Project Gutenberg
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page
+images generously made available by Internet Archive/American Libraries
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+Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this
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+
+
+      Images of the original pages are available through
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+
+
+
+
+
+SOLARIS FARM;
+
+A Story of the Twentieth Century.
+
+by
+
+MILAN C. EDSON.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+Published by the Author
+at
+1728 New Jersey Ave., N. W., Washington, D. C.
+In the Year 1900.
+
+Press Work by Byron S. Adams.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: CAPTAIN MILAN C. EDSON.]
+
+
+Copyright, 1900
+by Milan C. Edson.
+All Rights Reserved.
+
+
+
+
+DEDICATION.
+
+
+This book, is dedicated to the sons and daughters of the farms of the
+Republic as an expression of the author's realization, that Agricultural
+people constitute a large majority of its working units: That as such,
+its destiny is in the hands of their boys and girls, as its future
+guardians, fathers and mothers: That for the reasons stated, they should
+become its dominant thinkers and leaders: That Agriculture is the true
+basis of industrial and commercial success; hence, it should be made the
+most noble and pleasing of all occupations: That the alarming
+encroachments of land monopoly, and the inability of the small farm to
+meet the expense of using the latest and best machinery, threatens the
+total extinction of all land-owning farmers, and of their consequent
+reduction to the dependent caste of farm laborers: That the isolated
+life and the severe toil of the small farm, has a dangerously depressing
+effect on the minds of its people: That all of these things, seem to
+demand the changes suggested by the contents of this book.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+Strong in my convictions that all civilizations are false, which do not
+civilize the lowest units of any social order, I have written Solaris
+Farm as my contribution towards the improvement of agriculturists as a
+class, of the race as a whole; towards the establishment of a truer
+civilization, organized for the purpose of securing the same degree of
+progress for the lowest orders of humanity, which have been or can be
+attained by the highest. In any social or political fabric, wide
+differences of wealth, of education, of refinement in its sub-divisions
+are dangerous, they swiftly lead to the introduction of caste. Caste is
+the dry rot, which, when once established, will surely destroy all
+progress, all vitality, by slowly eating away the social, industrial and
+political life of the nation.
+
+In preparing this book for the press, I wish to acknowledge my
+obligations to the following authors, for much valuable information and
+inspiration: To Elmer Gates, the discoverer of new domains in
+Psychology, the inventor and discoverer of the art of Mentation, the
+founder of the Elmer Gates Laboratory, at Chevy Chase, Maryland: To
+Henry George, the author of "Progress and Poverty:" To Edward Bellamy,
+the author of "Equality," and "Looking Backward:" And lastly to that
+greatest of living Frenchmen, M. Godin, the author of "Social
+Solutions," and the founder of the "Familistere," with its famous
+industrial enterprise, located at the city of Guise, France; the
+grandest co-operative success of the age!
+
+A last word to my readers: Do you wish to join forces with the
+humanitarians? If so, always strive so to educate the people, that they
+may fully understand the true object and purpose of human life; and the
+necessity for the upbuilding of social, industrial and political
+institutions, in harmony with the demands of that purpose. This will
+require unselfish, persistent, co-operative effort and thought. In no
+other way, can you so greatly aid the cause of progress.
+
+MILAN C. EDSON.
+
+No. 1728 N. J. Ave., N. W.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., SEPT. 1ST, 1900.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+CHAPTER                                                    PAGE
+
+ 1. A FARMER'S SON WITH PROGRESSIVE TENDENCIES                1
+
+ 2. THE OUTLINES OF A GREAT PROBLEM                           4
+
+ 3. AN ADVERTISEMENT INTRODUCES THE HEROINE                   9
+
+ 4. THE STORY OF A STONE AND WHAT CAME AFTER                 10
+
+ 5. FAIRY FERN COTTAGE                                       27
+
+ 6. FENNIMORE FENWICK                                        34
+
+ 7. AN ALASKA KINDERGARTEN                                   37
+
+ 8. AN INTERVIEW WITH THE "FAIRIES."                         41
+
+ 9. THE PROBLEM VS. A GOOD MAN WHO IS AS RICH AS
+        HE IS NOBLE                                          49
+
+10. THE REAPING OF THE DEATH ANGEL                           53
+
+11. THE MARTINA MINE                                         58
+
+12. SPIRIT AND MORTAL--FATHER AND DAUGHTER                   61
+
+13. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS                                    63
+
+14. THE ETHICS OF PLANETARY EVOLUTION                        71
+
+15. THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN SOCIAL EVOLUTION    75
+
+16. FILLMORE AND FERN                                        87
+
+17. SOLARIS FARM                                             93
+
+18. CLUB LIFE AT SOLARIS                                    112
+
+19. FENWICK HALL                                            121
+
+20. THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA                              133
+
+21. HIS WOOING PROSPERS WHILE OUR HERO ENJOYS HIS
+        FIRST VACATION                                      141
+
+22. A SURPRISE PARTY AND RECEPTION COMBINED                 150
+
+23. FORMATION OF POPULAR SCIENCE CLUBS                      160
+
+24. A TWENTIETH CENTURY LOVE LETTER                         162
+
+25. THE REPLY                                               171
+
+26. FERN FENWICK ARRIVES AT SOLARIS                         179
+
+27. THE FESTIVAL                                            185
+
+28. THE ORATION                                             187
+
+29. THE STORY OF GILBERT GERRISH; OR, THE STRENGTH OF
+        THE WEAKEST UNIT                                    216
+
+30. OUR HERO AND HEROINE DISCUSS AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS    227
+
+31. THE DISCUSSION GROWS MORE INTERESTING                   248
+
+32. SOCIAL SOLUTIONS                                        256
+
+33. SOLARIS SCRIP                                           270
+
+34. THE INSURANCE OFFERED BY CO-OPERATIVE FARMING           273
+
+35. THE MOTHERS' CLUB                                       287
+
+36. THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN THE CAPITAL
+        AND LABOR PROBLEM                                   299
+
+37. THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM TRIUMPHANT                        313
+
+38. THE KINDERGARTEN AT SOLARIS                             327
+
+39. AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR                                   346
+
+40. THE COMING ERA OF GOOD ROADS                            362
+
+41. CO-OPERATIVE ETHICS                                     371
+
+42. RURAL LIFE UNDER THE REIGN OF CO-OPERATION              387
+
+43. A TWENTIETH CENTURY HONEYMOON                           416
+
+44. THE NEW CRUSADE                                         423
+
+
+
+
+SOLARIS FARM.
+
+A STORY OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+A FARMER'S SON WITH PROGRESSIVE TENDENCIES.
+
+
+One bright summer afternoon, near the close of the month of August,
+1905, two young college chums, Fillmore Flagg and George Gaylord, just
+met after a long separation, were seated on a rustic bench near a
+well-appointed mountain hotel. The superb view before them was well
+worthy of their half-hour's silent admiration. Full one thousand feet
+above the sea stands "Hotel Mount Meenahga" in the heart of the
+"Shawangunks," a mountain range in the state of New York, famed for its
+scenic beauty, cool dry air, pure water and commanding elevation.
+Looking northward a most charming landscape presents itself, a wonderful
+group of mountain ranges, stretching for seventy-five miles from near
+the Delaware Water-gap eastward to and including the Alpine peaks of the
+famous Catskills. Within this lovely semicircle lie the highlands of
+Ulster, Sullivan and Orange, lifted like seats in some vast
+amphitheater, tier above tier, while nearer a beautiful mingling of
+villages and hamlets, broad fields, green woods and silvery
+water-courses, constitutes a picture of enchanting beauty--a picture
+constantly changed, shaded and intensified by broad patches of moving
+shadow and sunlight from a great fleet of fleecy clouds sailing so
+swiftly, so silently and so majestically across the summer sky.
+
+"How exquisitely beautiful!" murmured Fillmore Flagg, "I wish I had my
+camera that I might make it captive, carry it hence and keep it, a rare
+token of beauty, a source of joy forever."
+
+At this point, a brief description of the young men will serve by way of
+a further introduction.
+
+Fillmore Flagg was fully six feet in height, though his compact,
+well-rounded figure made him seem less tall; his straight, muscular
+limbs were in harmony with his deep chest and symmetrical shoulders. His
+rather large but beautifully turned neck and throat rose straight from
+the spinal column, firmly supporting a noble head, everywhere evenly and
+smoothly developed. His thick, soft brown hair, worn rather short, was
+inclined to curl, giving to the outlines of the head a still more heroic
+size. His forehead was large, full, dome shaped and remarkably smooth;
+the brows, finely penciled and well arched, were matched in color and
+slenderness by a short moustache which seemed a shade or two darker than
+the hair. His eyes were large, very expressive, of a soft dark brown,
+bright and flashing with emotion, full of pensive light when partially
+shaded by their thick silken lashes; his smiling glance possessed a
+curiously fascinating magnetic charm. The attractiveness of the entire
+face and neck was intensified by the wonderful marble-like smoothness of
+skin which accompanies that rare, pale olive tint of complexion. A soft
+Alpine hat and a neat business suit of dark clothing completes this
+picture of the personal appearance of Fillmore Flagg. Later on we shall
+learn to know him better by his genial temperament, mental and moral
+characteristics.
+
+George Gaylord was above medium height, slender and pale, slightly
+inclined to stoop; wore glasses, and a thick black moustache which
+entirely concealed his thin lips. His heavy growth of long, coal black
+hair was naturally bent on falling over his high white forehead. His
+large black eyes were deeply set under heavy dark brows, more square
+than arched. His straight nose and smoothly shaven chin were set in line
+with his high square forehead. While both face and figure suggested the
+student, a tall silk hat and a square cut, closely buttoned black frock
+coat, stamped him at once as a clerical student.
+
+"Tell me, George," said Fillmore Flagg, "how have you fared since we
+parted, and what are your ambitions and plans for the future?"
+
+"There is not much to tell you, Fillmore. As you know, when I left
+college, my mother was a widow with a very limited income, which made it
+difficult to meet my college expenses. Mother had set her heart on my
+entering the ministry. Her only brother, a childless widower, and a man
+of some wealth and great influence in the church affairs of his
+prosperous New England town, promised his assistance. Behold the result!
+I have just graduated with fair honors from a prominent theological
+institute. I am to take charge, this coming November, of a large church
+and congregation in the manufacturing city where my uncle resides. Uncle
+George, for whom I was named, is now with my mother visiting friends in
+New York. They have kindly selected as my future wife, my uncle's
+favorite niece and prospective heiress to his wealth. When last we met,
+four years ago, Martha Merritt was a sweet little miss in short
+dresses; but gave promise, even then, of unfolding into a lovely woman.
+To tell you the truth, under the circumstances, I am more than half
+prepared to fall in love with her when we meet again. However ambitious
+my day dreams in the past may have been, a not unkindly fate has woven
+the web of destiny for me and fixed my future life work without much
+effort on my part; and yet I am quite content to have it so. Two weeks
+ago I left the heat and bustle of the great city for a month's rest in
+this quiet place. I little dreamed of meeting you here; I need not say I
+am delighted: I am, thoroughly so. I find you looking your best, yet I
+can easily perceive you have been hard at work as usual. I do not
+believe you could possibly keep still and rest, even for one short week,
+let the inducement to do so be ever so great. And now, my dear Fillmore,
+since I have, so to speak, brought myself up to date for your benefit,
+may I ask for a similar service on your part?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+THE OUTLINES OF A GREAT PROBLEM.
+
+
+Fillmore Flagg, seemingly self absorbed, remained silent for some
+moments, softly stroking his chin with his strong, shapely hand, his
+dreamy eyes with far-off vision intent, apparently noting details in the
+hazy borders of the distant landscape. At last, turning to his friend
+with a hearty hand clasp he said: "George Gaylord, I congratulate you;
+your future is bright; you deserve it, your mother deserves it. The
+fates have been very generous with you. I am glad you are content to
+accept the good things of life which they bring to you.
+
+"As for myself, my lines of life are cast in swift waters. My
+environments, in their reaction upon me from within, seem to develop a
+determined will to wrench from the rocks of destiny by ceaseless and
+persistent effort, whatever gifts I am to possess or enjoy. Work I must.
+Obstacles seem only to stimulate my ambition to overcome them. Yet I am
+passionately fond of the beautiful; poetry, music and art in all the
+loveliness of its varied forms; they affect me profoundly. This poetic
+side of my nature I inherit from my dear, devoted mother--my highest
+ideal of all that is good, lovely and angelic in woman. Sadly and often
+have I missed her loving tenderness, her watchful care, her beautiful
+smile. The shadowy Angel of Death claimed her and bore her from my sight
+when I was but four years old. Young as I was at that time, this
+beautiful world has never seemed quite so bright to me since.
+
+"My father, Fayette Flagg, was a noble man of sterling worth. He
+belonged to a class of thrifty, hard-working, pioneer farmers, on the
+broad, fertile prairies of the state of Nebraska. Until the death of my
+mother he was happy and prosperous, hopeful, helpful and brave. After
+that great blow came to him, he recovered slowly, as from a long, severe
+illness and never again was quite so courageous and strong, or as
+hopeful as before.
+
+"With the advent of the last decade of the nineteenth century a feeling
+of foreboding unrest seemed to brood over the western farmer: blight and
+drouth destroyed his best crops just when they seemed to promise most;
+farm stock had to be reduced. The good years were few, the bad years
+were many. The great strain of carrying a large outfit of expensive
+agricultural machinery which on a small farm could be used with profit
+only from ten to forty days in the year, began to be felt. The debts,
+incurred by the purchase of the machinery, were growing steadily larger.
+With each renewal of the mortgage on the farm, came the demand for a
+bonus and a higher rate of interest. Meanwhile the price of land and of
+all farm products kept on falling, falling steadily year after year.
+Only taxes and freight rates from farm to market kept up. High rates of
+interest and of freight swallowed up everything and seemed to accelerate
+the terrible shrinkage of values. My father found, to his amazement,
+that his farm was now mortgaged for more than it would sell for under
+the hammer. He gave up the struggle in despair. The savings of a
+lifetime, his health, strength and courage all exhausted; his homestead
+and farm sold from under him; he lost all hope and in a few short weeks
+died, a broken-hearted man. I went to him a few months before the end: I
+tried all in my power to save him, but alas! I could do nothing but bury
+his body beside that of my mother and come away, filled with the
+determination of solving the most difficult problem of a lifetime--a
+problem that lies at the very foundation of the permanency of this
+republic. 'How to keep the farm lands of America in the hands of the
+native farmers of this and the coming generations? How to help them to
+help themselves?' The decree has gone forth. The small farm and farmer
+must go. They are doomed. A great wave of land monopoly, rolled up by a
+large class of very shrewd, far-seeing capitalists, is even now sweeping
+across the continent. Seventy-five years hence only a pauperized
+peasantry of ignorant farm laborers, bound to the soil as hopelessly as
+the slave to the master, will coin their lives of ceaseless, unrequited
+toil to swell the rent roll of the non-resident landowner, who, as lord
+of the domain, through his heartless agent, will exact his tribute to
+the uttermost farthing. Must the sons and daughters of the farms of this
+republic come to the bitter heritage of such a life? Surely! We have
+already seen the beginning of the end! The sad case of my father can be
+duplicated a hundred times or more in almost every county of our western
+states. States that are incalculably rich in their magnificent domain of
+broad acres of the most fertile land the sun ever shone upon; capable,
+when permanently placed in the hands of a properly equipped,
+scientifically educated class of people, of producing the food supply of
+the world: but under the blight of the monopoly system, history will
+repeat itself. Our agricultural interests will languish and wither;
+dependent manufactures, and all branches of exchange and commerce, must,
+in time, follow. What then will happen to society? To government of both
+state and nation? In the face of this appalling situation, how
+stupendous the problem! By what effort can a great counter tidal-wave be
+set in motion upon whose crest the salt and salvation of the republic,
+the sons and daughters of American farms, may be carried safely to the
+permanent heritage of the soil they till? As in the past, so in the
+future must we look to them for our true reformers, leaders, thinkers
+and statesmen. They are endowed by birth, by constant association in
+youth with soil and sunlight, fields and grass, green meadows and mossy
+brooks and, best of all, doubly endowed by the inbreathing of ozone
+laden breezes from mountain and forest, with that rare combination of
+nerve, moral, mental and physical stamina, courage and patriotism which
+is necessary to preserve this republic and to keep it, ever and always,
+a model of progressive excellence for all the nations of the earth. This
+means the embodiment by them of more and better mind, that they may do
+better, wiser and more dominant thinking; be able to comprehend the sum
+of human knowledge to such an extent that they may add to it; to so
+understand their lives, and their relations to the Universe around them,
+that they may become masters of themselves and their environments--a law
+unto themselves--fitting them for a perfect citizenship of a perfected
+republic. This most desirable of all accomplishments, requires better
+surroundings, more leisure and opportunity for self-improvement, more
+money, shorter hours of more remunerative labor--labor transformed from
+a hated drudgery to a desirable occupation. Behold, friend Gaylord, you
+have before you the outlines of the problem. Can you suggest anything
+towards its solution?"
+
+"I can suggest nothing," said George Gaylord; "You have stated the case
+with the clearness and eloquence of a Henry George. If what you say is
+true, the problem is a very serious one. But are you quite sure the
+facts will fully warrant your conclusions? If so, what are your plans
+and what have you been doing towards working out this puzzling
+question?"
+
+"Oh yes!" said Fillmore Flagg, "I am very sure of my position. The more
+I study the question, the firmer my conviction that I have understated
+the case instead of overstating it. I am studying the agricultural
+question from every possible standpoint and I propose to make it a life
+work. Every branch of science may aid me; I must master at least a
+portion of each. Since we left college I have become fairly proficient
+in surveying and civil engineering; have devoted considerable time to
+photography; I am classed as a skilled electrician; I have thoroughly
+mastered agricultural chemistry and several of the more important
+branches of that interesting and most wonderful science. As you know, I
+am very fond of mechanics and of all kinds of machinery. I could not
+rest until I had gained a practical knowledge of all kinds of tools and
+learned how to repair or construct most kinds of machinery. Two months
+ago I completed a general course of study at the Philadelphia School of
+Industrial Art, which, for the especial work I have in view, I consider
+by far the most beneficial and practicable of all my acquirements. I am
+now resting, cogitating and waiting for the golden opportunity which,
+sooner or later, must come, to enable me to commence my work."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+AN ADVERTISEMENT INTRODUCES THE HEROINE.
+
+
+"By the way, I have something to show you. I clipped this advertisement
+from a leading New York daily paper this morning, and have read it
+carefully many times. Somehow, I have an abiding conviction that it will
+lead me to the high road, on the way towards the successful solution of
+my problem. I am going to apply in person."
+
+Full of curiosity, George Gaylord took the clipping and slowly read
+aloud:
+
+
+     "WANTED: A skilled mechanic, qualified to act in the capacity of
+     landscape gardener and agricultural chemist. Applicant must be a
+     strong, healthy young man, of good habits, pleasing address; with a
+     general knowledge of business methods, and an excellent moral
+     character. Qualifications must be well attested by recommendations
+     from reliable parties. A graduate of the Philadelphia School of
+     Industrial Art is preferred. Salary liberal. Apply in person at the
+     office of
+                 BITTERWOOD & BARNARD, Atty's.,
+                   Atlantic Building, Washington, D. C."
+
+
+"This is curious! It seems to point directly to you, Fillmore. I do
+wonder in what peculiar capacity you are to act, and who your real
+employer is to be? I shall be full of unsatisfied curiosity until I know
+the sequel."
+
+At this moment George Gaylord was suddenly interrupted by an
+unlooked-for gust of wind whirling around the shoulders of the big rock
+standing above and behind them. The fluttering paper slipped from his
+fingers and went sailing away over the tree tops, down the mountain
+side, with that erratic up and down, eddying motion peculiar to run
+away, fly away papers. In an instant both young men were upon their
+feet, intently watching the uncertain flight of the clipping. A few
+moments later it fell to the ground, just at the feet of two ladies who,
+with heads protected from the sun by large parasols, were slowly walking
+around the bend of the broad, well kept road, winding down the mountain
+side. The younger of the two ladies picked up the advertisement,
+hurriedly scanned it, and then raised her eyes to discover the two young
+men as probable owners of the truant paper.
+
+"Ah!" said George Gaylord, "I recognize those people. It is Miss
+Fenwick and her travelling companion. Come along Fillmore, let us join
+them at once and claim your lost clipping. The opportunity for an
+introduction to two very interesting ladies, who are among the most
+noted guests of the hotel, is too good to be lost."
+
+Accordingly they hurried down the steep path that joined the road near
+where the ladies were still waiting, at a point full three hundred feet
+below.
+
+Approaching, with hats in hand, George Gaylord said: "Allow me, Miss
+Fenwick, to introduce to you my friend and college chum, Fillmore Flagg:
+for a peculiar purpose of his own he wishes to regain possession of that
+flighty paper which, fortunately for him, the prank playing wind carried
+to your feet but a moment ago."
+
+With a slight inclination of her queenly head, she turned with a
+dazzling smile to meet the inquiring glance of Fillmore Flagg. In a
+clear musical voice, full of thrilling cadence and power, she said: "Mr.
+Flagg, if you are particularly interested in this paper, I am very sure
+I am quite happy to meet you, and take pleasure in returning it to you
+now; I trust that we may have the opportunity of becoming better
+acquainted before you leave these lovely mountains." Turning to her
+companion she continued: "Permit me, gentlemen, to introduce my friend
+and companion, Mrs. Bainbridge; Mr. George Gaylord, who is just entering
+the ministry, and his college friend, Mr. Fillmore Flagg."
+
+Mrs. Bainbridge responded with a pleasant smile. She was a tall, well
+formed, well preserved woman of forty; full of a quiet dignity, with an
+air of refinement that fitted her like a garment. Her heavy dark hair,
+coiled high on her shapely head, was just slightly silvered with gray
+and seemed to be a fitting foil to her large melancholy black eyes--eyes
+that from their slumbering depths seemed to impress the beholder with
+suggestions of some mysterious power, gleaming messages, like beacon
+flashes, from her inner life. With her becoming dress of rich, dark
+cloth, gloves and parasol to match, she looked the cultured lady to
+perfection.
+
+Turning her steps up the mountain, Fern Fenwick said: "Gentlemen, as it
+is near the hour for supper, we had best return to the hotel at once. I
+think too, by this time the mail from the station must have arrived."
+Fillmore Flagg was at her side in an instant, choosing the side opposite
+the parasol, which gave him a clear view of her charming profile. George
+Gaylord and Mrs. Bainbridge followed a little more slowly. The
+conversation soon became animated.
+
+While they are thus occupied let us try to get a more complete picture
+of Miss Fern Fenwick. Her round, exquisitely proportioned figure was of
+medium height, straight as an arrow, full of grace with every movement.
+Her quick, firm, elastic step was Youth personified: a charming maiden,
+she, of twenty summers. The artistic outlines of her plump arms and
+shoulders, beautifully modelled bust, throat and neck, so admirably
+proportioned, would have satisfied the most carping critic; poet or
+painter, he would have pronounced them a dream of perfect symmetry. Her
+queenly shaped head, so gracefully poised, like a clear cut cameo, was a
+poem of intellectual development on lines of rarest beauty. Her thick,
+glossy hair of dark chestnut brown, fine as spun silk and inclined to a
+wavy crimp, was artistically coiled in a most becoming style; small ears
+of perfect shape, and transparently pink, were set close to the head.
+The curve of the brow, in perfect line with the pleasing oval of both
+cheek and chin; a Grecian nose and cherub mouth completed the perfect
+contour of a face and head of marvellous beauty--a beauty made more
+brilliant by large, lustrous eyes of blended sapphire and amethyst,
+flashing jewels of deep violet blue, so clearly expressing the varying
+emotions by their ever changing tints of sparkling light. Her dress, a
+close fitting gown of rich, soft, silver gray material, was stylishly
+made, with a narrow line of lovely lace at the throat; perfect fitting
+gloves of the same shade of gray, with a parasol to match, completed a
+costume that seemed to bring out and intensify a most charming
+complexion of pale pink and white, faultlessly smooth and transparently
+pure: at once indicative and prophetic of a strong vital temperament,
+perfect mental and physical health; pure, highly cultured mind and a
+wealth of personal magnetism--that silent charm of mysterious
+potency--pervading and surrounding her like the perfume of sweet
+flowers, winning the unsought admiration, friendship and fidelity of all
+who came within the radiance of her powerful magnetic aura. All this,
+and more, Fillmore Flagg perceived and felt. He walked and talked as one
+in a dream. Never before had he met so fair a vision of female
+loveliness, with grace so winning, gestures so perfect and voice so
+musical. His heart, overflowing with a new ecstatic emotion, paid silent
+homage to this queenly creature. He was lost in admiration. Swallowed up
+and absorbed by the first incoming wave of a great love. He was lifted
+out of himself, above and beyond all gross things of earth, into a
+heaven of pure delight. His better nature was thrilled and profoundly
+moved. He felt that in the presence of this pure, angelic woman he
+could never again do an unworthy act. A life work, up to the standard of
+his highest ideal, was a tribute of devotion he would willingly lay at
+her feet.
+
+All too soon for Fillmore Flagg the moments flew by. Almost before he
+was aware of it they were ascending the steps of the hotel. Pausing on
+the broad veranda for a moment before separating, Fern Fenwick said:
+"Gentlemen, Mrs. Bainbridge and myself have planned for a carriage drive
+to-morrow to Sam's Point. We have two seats in our conveyance at your
+disposal and would be delighted to have you accompany us. May we hope
+that you both can come with us?"
+
+Fillmore Flagg and George Gaylord both eagerly accepted the invitation,
+the ladies passed on to their rooms, while the young men turned their
+steps once more to the rustic bench to enjoy the magnificent sunset view
+of the landscape they had so much admired earlier in the day.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+THE STORY OF A STONE AND WHAT CAME AFTER.
+
+
+Sam's Point, the crowning backbone of the highest mountain in the
+Shawangunk range, bends away from the general course of its fellows
+apparently for the especial purpose of giving the mountain climber, by
+its isolation, a commanding view in almost every direction except to the
+north-east. For miles in extent the flat, rocky top of this crown forms
+a promenade of magnificent proportions up amid the clouds. In shape it
+is a long, slender triangle, about three miles from its base westward to
+the point where its highest altitude is reached, two thousand three
+hundred and forty feet above tide-water. Cradled in its rocky bosom,
+near the base of the triangle, lies a crystal lake--one hundred and
+fifty acres of sparkling water. At this point the promenade is fully
+three-fourths of a mile wide, gradually narrowing to a width of less
+than one hundred feet at the extreme point. The long battlemented sides
+of this lofty triangle, like some mighty fortress, grim and frowning,
+are protected and supported by perpendicular cliffs of black rock,
+rising like some bastioned wall of terrifying proportions, two hundred
+feet above the shoulder of the mountain. In a sheltered nook, near the
+point, about five hundred feet below the base of the cliffs, stands the
+Sam's Point Hotel, scarcely more than a cottage in size. Here Fern
+Fenwick's party left the carriage. Taking the narrow, zig-zag pathway
+that led to the cliffs and often pausing to admire the immensity and
+grandeur of the black rock palisades towering so far above them, they
+soon found themselves under the nose of the point of rocks. Entering the
+crevice in the cliffs known as "The Chimney Stairway," they commenced
+the steep and toilsome climb to the summit; Fillmore Flagg taking the
+lead and assisting Miss Fenwick, George Gaylord performing the same
+service for Mrs. Bainbridge; fifteen minutes later they stood, almost
+breathless, upon the summit, the blue sky all about them, a precipice on
+either hand where shimmering, giddy space seemed to yawn so frightfully
+near. Meanwhile a strong, buffeting wind tugged at ribbons and capes,
+hats and bonnets, so furiously that walking was hazardous; it gave one
+such an uneasy sensation of giddiness and unstable equilibrium
+generally, that the temptation to fly over the edge of the cliff was
+hard to resist. A huge egg-shaped boulder, twenty-five feet in height
+and as large as a house, poised rather unsteadily on its rounded base,
+was quite near and gave promise of protection from the violence of the
+wind. With one accord our party scrambled towards it, the ladies
+clinging tightly to their escorts with one hand, a firm grip on hat or
+bonnet with the other. Thus sheltered, and more at ease, they slowly
+drank in the glorious vision which greeted the eye on every hand.
+Looking down as from a balloon, at the foot of the mountain, on the
+north side, the eye was charmed by the length and beauty of the Rondout
+Valley, through which ran the Delaware and Hudson Canal, and the Rondout
+River. For miles on either side of canal and river the valley was made
+more lovely by its checkered farms and gleaming white villages. Directly
+at the foot of the mountain on the south side, the broader valley of the
+Wallkill presented an equally beautiful and diversified picture of farm,
+hamlet and village. Beyond these, in every direction save to the
+north-east, vast stretches of country lay spread out like a map; the
+mountains far and near, so dwarfed as to give to the surface the
+appearance of billowy plains, almost level where they approached the
+edge of the horizon. The wonderful extent and scope of the view was
+bounded by the line of the horizon, at least one hundred miles distant.
+Three-fourths of this sweeping circle responded to the unaided vision,
+disclosing the blue hills and hazy mountain peaks located in five
+states: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut and
+Massachusetts, altogether presenting in its immensity a landscape as
+variegated and charming as it was wondrously beautiful and attractive--a
+marvellous picture of indescribable loveliness never to be forgotten.
+
+"How inspiringly magnificent!" said Fillmore Flagg: "All the sublimity
+of my nature is satisfied."
+
+"And I," said Fern Fenwick, "am too profoundly impressed to talk. I
+would that I could spend hours here in silent admiration."
+
+"I think," said Mrs. Bainbridge, "that we would better move further back
+on the rocky summit where doubtless, sheltered seats may be found, then
+we can all enjoy this most wonderful of views at our leisure and with
+some degree of comfort."
+
+"Yes," said George Gaylord, "that will be ever so much nicer."
+
+"Stop a moment," said Fern Fenwick, who for some moments had been
+examining the huge boulder which sheltered them, "Have you noticed the
+curious formation of this immense stone? How many hundreds of tons it
+may weigh, I hardly dare guess. Geologically speaking, it is a 'stranger
+rock,' not in any way related to the rocks of this mountain, nor of the
+mountains near here. It is a mammoth conglomerate of such an
+interestingly curious compound and of such flinty hardness. At the time
+of its formation enormous pressure, coupled with the most intense heat,
+must have molded this strange mass together. Coarse and fine gravel,
+smooth, round pebbles, from the size of a pigeon's egg to that of a
+two-hundred-pound boulder, are all jumbled together in great confusion,
+and so firmly cemented in this immense globular mass of that peculiar,
+tenacious clay of greenish gray color, which forms so large a part of
+the drift formation, and which is so widely distributed over the face
+of our globe--that strange, unaccountable, isolated and unrelated
+formation, which still remains an unsolved puzzle by our best
+geologists. I wish you to observe the long sides of this strange rock,
+especially where the exposed sides of the pebbles have been worn down
+smooth and even with the clay--how they are marked and striated by
+shallow grooves, all running in one direction as straight as though
+graven by rule. Is it possible that any freak or flood of the glacial
+period could have floated this huge rock to its resting place on the
+very summit of this high mountain, almost two thousand five hundred feet
+above the level of the sea? Oh! tell me, ye listening mortals, or ye
+winged winds that blow and pull my ribbons so! whence came this stranger
+rock? how formed? and how were its smooth, worn sides so systematically
+engraved?"
+
+Fern Fenwick closed her series of queries with a gradually rising pitch
+and inflection in the ringing tones of her clear, musical voice. With
+figure erect, eyes flashing, cheeks glowing and hands uplifted, she
+seemed the personification of some priestess of science. Fillmore Flagg
+and George Gaylord gazed at her with the admiration of amazement. Mrs.
+Bainbridge exclaimed:
+
+"Why Fern Fenwick! How you do go on with such nonsense, to be sure. No
+doubt these gentlemen, from this time forward, will look at you as some
+scientific freak or geological professor of the female persuasion, but
+recently escaped from the walls of some famous college!"
+
+"Mrs. Bainbridge," said Fillmore Flagg, "of course we understand that
+you were joking in what you said just now: that you really admire the
+terse, clear, and wonderfully complete description of this strange rock
+by Miss Fenwick, quite as much as we do." Turning to Fern Fenwick, he
+continued: "I believe, Miss Fenwick, that I can throw some light on the
+puzzling questions you have so poetically propounded."
+
+"Pray do tell us, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick; "I can't remember when
+I was so excited with interest on any subject before."
+
+"Very well," said Fillmore Flagg: "That curiously able and intellectual
+man, Mr. Ignatius Donnelly, in his very interesting book called
+'Ragnarok,' or 'The Age of Fire and Gravel,' puts forth a most
+remarkable theory regarding the drift formation, to the truth of which
+this huge rock seems to bear witness. The theory, briefly stated, is as
+follows: A great many ages ago, when this globe of ours was still in the
+period of cataclysms, rolling through space around the sun, it came in
+contact with a portion of the end of the tail of some enormous comet,
+sweeping through the universe on its erratic course. This great boulder
+is a sample of the component parts of that fiery tail, which smote the
+exposed face of the earth so terribly with the drift deposit at that
+time of dire disaster. The age of fire and gravel, surely! This curious
+clay, now of such flinty hardness, was at one time the exceedingly fine
+dust of the comet, cohering, collecting and embedding its mixture of
+pebbles and gravel by the heat and pressure of the friction caused by
+its incalculably swift passage through space for periods of uncounted
+ages. Remember that the heat of all drift material in the tail of the
+comet was greatly intensified by the explosion of accompanying gases as
+they came in contact with the atmosphere of our earth. All inflammable
+material on the face of the globe, which was exposed at the time of its
+passage through the tail of the comet, was burned up: both earth and sky
+were on fire! Fortunately our flying globe made a quick passage, thus it
+happened that large portions of its unexposed surface wholly escaped
+this terrible downpour of fire and gravel, and the absence of all drift
+deposit on these places is logically accounted for. The atmosphere, so
+heated during that awful period, drank up the waters of the earth--then
+came the floods, as the waters fell again. Then followed the reaction
+period of extreme cold, snow and ice--the glacial period. This
+particular rock, while following in the train of its parent comet,
+though lagging many thousands of miles behind, still, being so very
+large, moved with accelerated speed towards the comet's head, passing on
+its way countless millions of smaller particles, whose cutting edges
+scored these grooves. On entering the earth's atmosphere, on account of
+its great size, this boulder, through the law of attraction, quickly
+moved to the outermost fringe of the comet's tail nearest the earth,
+therefore was the first to alight on the top of this mountain, far away
+from all smaller drift material.
+
+"I hope, Miss Fenwick, that my brief and rather speculative answers to
+your questions, reasoning as I did, from Mr. Donnelly's point of view,
+may prove at least in a measure satisfactory."
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick, "your answers to my questions
+have all been very ingenious: equally interesting and satisfactory,
+especially as to how this mammoth conglomerate came by its grooved lines
+and, later how it managed to find a resting place on this mountain top,
+so far from its kind. Mr. Donnelly's theory of accounting for the
+widely scattered deposits of the drift formation is the most reasonable
+and logical of anything I have ever read or heard. Doubtless, in course
+of time, it may be proven the only true one. I see Mr. Gaylord and Mrs.
+Bainbridge are becoming weary of all this talk about rocks: let us move
+further back from the point in search of more sheltered and comfortable
+seats."
+
+Accordingly they chose the central path and were soon seated, enjoying
+the changed landscape from a new point of view. However, Mr. Gaylord was
+not yet satisfied and soon proposed a walk to the lake. Mrs. Bainbridge
+was willing but Miss Fenwick had walked enough for one day. A quiet
+enjoyment of her lofty outlook was what she now most desired.
+
+"Very well, Fern," said Mrs. Bainbridge, "Mr. Gaylord will accompany me
+to the lake and we will bring back for lunch some of those very large,
+delicious blueberries, which Mr. Gaylord assures me are growing so
+abundantly around the shores of the lake. You and Mr. Flagg shall remain
+here with the lunch baskets."
+
+This plan was agreed to, and very soon Mrs. Bainbridge and her escort
+had disappeared on their way to the lake. To Fillmore Flagg it seemed a
+long time that Fern Fenwick had been sitting so quietly, apparently
+absorbed in admiring the billowy miles of landscape unrolled so far to
+the southward. In reality, each was thinking of the other.
+
+"Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick slowly, "will you pardon me for asking
+you some very abrupt questions, or what may seem such when considering
+our brief acquaintance?"
+
+"Certainly," said Fillmore Flagg, "I hope my replies this time may prove
+as satisfactory as those I gave in regard to the rock. The pardon you
+crave is granted in advance. Pray proceed."
+
+"Tell me, Mr. Flagg, why are you so much interested in that
+advertisement which came to me so unceremoniously yesterday? And again,
+tell me why you are so moved and determined to better the conditions of
+farm life? I suppose you know that I have wealth and leisure at my
+disposal; it may prove that I can be of great assistance to you. This is
+my excuse for asking you for more details in regard to your personal
+plans."
+
+With a heart filled with hope, Fillmore Flagg began the recital of the
+story he had given to George Gaylord on the terrace bench. With frequent
+glances of encouragement from Fern Fenwick, his inspiration and
+eloquence grew upon him. He gave a masterly statement of the work, his
+preparation, hopes and plans. Delighted beyond measure with the
+undisguised appreciation and approval of this charming woman, whose very
+destiny in the vista of a coming future, seemed to him to be linked in
+some mysterious manner with the success of his most cherished ambitions,
+he cleverly enlarged and perfected the original statement. As he
+concluded, Fern Fenwick rose to her feet with hands extended, her face
+glowing with interested enthusiasm, saying:
+
+"Mr. Flagg, I most heartily congratulate you on the noble life-work you
+have planned and chosen, I thank you again and again for the valuable
+facts you have placed so confidingly in my possession, in regard to
+yourself and your work. Rest assured my interest and assistance
+henceforth are at your command. You will understand this more clearly
+when I tell you that Bitterwood & Barnard are my attorneys, and the
+advertisement which played such an important part in bringing us
+together here in these mountains, was drawn up by them for my purposes.
+That it should bring to me a person of your wonderful ability,
+integrity, skill and knowledge, is an almost unhoped for piece of good
+fortune. You are the one, of all others, most eminently fitted to help
+me to a successful solution of my problem, which you have so admirably
+stated. Hereafter I am your debtor. I hope to prove a not unworthy
+employer, or, to put it more pleasantly, an interested co-worker. Will
+you do me the favor of considering yourself as pledged from this moment
+to take up my work? Go at once to my attorneys in Washington, ask them
+for a letter of introduction to me, that you may get more complete
+details of my plans and work, saying not a word of our present
+acquaintance. I will furnish you with a check on my Washington bankers,
+with which to defray your expenses. To-morrow, in company with Mrs.
+Bainbridge, I go to my summer home on the Hudson near Newburgh, where
+letters will reach me. This is the twenty-eighth of August; on the fifth
+of September, at noon meet me in the station at Newburgh. Come prepared
+to devote a week at the least in discussing the scope and plan of our
+work, devising ways and means etc. I very much desire that you have an
+interview with my father, I know he will be pleased with you. Do these
+arrangements suit your convenience? Do they meet your entire approval?"
+
+"I am greatly elated," said Fillmore Flagg, "at this my golden
+opportunity of commencing what you have so kindly named as 'our' work,
+under such auspicious circumstances. I thank you, Miss Fenwick, more
+than words can tell, for your confidence in my integrity and ability, I
+will do my best to retain that confidence. I am ready to start for
+Washington to-morrow. I will follow your instructions, and will report
+to you by letter from that city, and then meet you at Newburgh at the
+appointed time."
+
+As he finished his reply Fern Fenwick said: "Mr. Flagg, I am very much
+pleased with your prompt decision in favor of my arrangements. I see our
+friends returning from the lake, will you help me to spread the lunch?"
+
+With keen appetites they enjoyed the lunch especially the delicious
+blueberries which George Gaylord and Mrs. Bainbridge had brought from
+the lake. The hours passed quickly; the drive back to the hotel was
+without mishap or incident: the entire party, on separating, voted it a
+day of perfect pleasure, Fillmore Flagg and George Gaylord expressing
+their thanks to the ladies for their kind invitation which had given
+them such a delightful excursion.
+
+Later, George Gaylord called at the room of his chum for a few moments
+chat. "Come in," said Fillmore Flagg, "I was just thinking of you. I
+have made up my mind to go to Washington to-morrow for the purpose of
+answering that advertisement. How much longer do you propose to remain
+here?"
+
+"Not more than two weeks," replied George Gaylord. "I understand Miss
+Fenwick and Mrs. Bainbridge are going away to-morrow. I am likely to
+have a very quiet time, all by my lone self: I think I must take to
+bowling for an hour or two each day just to keep up my exercise and kill
+time. I hope you may be entirely successful in your interview with
+Bitterwood & Barnard. Remember how much I am interested in this matter,
+and your promise to let me know the result. By the way, what a perfectly
+delightful day we have had, thanks to that lucky gust of wind which
+tore your clipping from my fingers and landed it at Miss Fenwick's
+dainty feet. What a talented young lady she is, and so handsome too. Her
+lecture on the mountain top about that stone would have been a credit to
+any one. I never saw her look such a picture of perfect beauty before.
+She seemed wonderfully interested in you, Fillmore, especially after
+your brilliant reply to her series of apparently unanswerable questions.
+I declare, the profoundness, the ingeniousness, and the boldness of your
+successful answers filled me with amazement! You fairly surpassed
+yourself; all the time looking your best, just like a hero. Yet when you
+looked at Miss Fenwick you seemed just at the point of falling down to
+worship her. I can't blame you. What a glorious couple you two would
+make! If it were not for her immense wealth I believe you could win her;
+any one can see that you have made a very favorable impression. Perhaps
+you can win her as it is--I wish you all success, you certainly deserve
+it. Mrs. Bainbridge tells me that at the death of Miss Fenwick's father,
+some years ago, she became sole heir to his vast fortune; most of it in
+very rich Alaska gold mines."
+
+"Are you quite sure," said Fillmore Flagg, "that her father is dead?"
+
+"Yes Fillmore, I am quite sure; although it is just possible that I may
+have misunderstood Mrs. Bainbridge. In my hotel acquaintance with that
+lady I discover that she is a very intelligent and accomplished person
+of rare good sense. Splendid company; we seem to get on famously
+together, I shall miss her very much I am sure. As usual, I am doing all
+the talking: it is now your turn to say something."
+
+"I think I could," said Fillmore Flagg, "if my chatterbox friend,
+George Gaylord, would only give me a chance. Miss Fenwick I regard as
+the most beautiful and cultured woman I have ever met. I do admire her
+very much, but the possibility of ever winning her for a wife is, at
+this time, too remote for me to consider for a moment. I must now pack
+my trunk and then see the hotel clerk about getting it to the railway
+station. So good night, George, I will see you again in the morning."
+
+That night Fillmore Flagg could not sleep. The beautiful image of Fern
+Fenwick was before him the moment he closed his eyes. The events of the
+past two days, with their crowding memories, kept racing through his
+mind: he could not think calmly or connectedly. He was in a fever of
+expectancy regarding the meeting at Newburgh, and the prospect of
+spending a whole week at Miss Fenwick's cottage on the Hudson. Then and
+there, no doubt, she would tell him all about herself, her father, her
+particular work, when and why she became interested in it etc. But what
+about the father? How could he have an interview with her father, if
+Mrs. Bainbridge was correct in saying that Mr. Fenwick had been dead for
+several years? It was a mystery he could not solve. He did not doubt
+Fern Fenwick for a moment and felt sure she would, at the proper time,
+make everything plain. How gracious and winning she had been to him; she
+seemed to bid him to have courage. In spite of her great wealth, and a
+hundred other obstacles that might exist, he was more and more in love
+every hour. If proving himself worthy of her confidence in every way
+would win her love, surely then, he would win it. With this
+determination fixed in his mind he fell asleep.
+
+In her room that night, as Fern Fenwick brushed her hair and prepared
+herself for rest, she often paused to ponder over her strange meeting
+with Fillmore Flagg; thinking what a fine, manly looking fellow he was,
+and how well he could talk; how thoroughly equipped he was to take up
+the question of improving farm life, the lives of farmers and their
+families--the question of all questions for her. Surely, Mr. Flagg bore
+the stamp of destiny! He was the man of all men to make her work a
+complete success. How fortunate she was to secure his valuable services.
+How strange, that after a brief acquaintance of only two days, she
+should have such perfect confidence in a comparative stranger. Yet, she
+did not doubt his integrity; she knew he was loyalty itself; she
+intuitively felt that she could trust him implicitly--he would never
+betray her interests under any circumstances. She knew from his every
+look, tone and gesture that he admired her intensely, devotedly. Her own
+feelings, she did not care to analyze. With a sigh, more of pleasure
+than weariness, she composed herself for the night and was soon lost in
+sleep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+FAIRY FERN COTTAGE.
+
+
+One week has passed since the events narrated in the previous chapter.
+At Cornwall on the Hudson, on a West Shore train speeding north, we find
+Fillmore Flagg; his mission at Washington successfully accomplished, the
+letter of introduction from Bitterwood & Barnard secured. In another
+short hour he will be at Newburgh. Will the lovely face of Fern Fenwick
+be the first to greet him? As the moments fly by, his heart beats
+faster. He feels the surging tide of his all-absorbing love for this
+beautiful woman, thrilling and permeating his entire being. He tries to
+be calm, to think what he ought to say that would be fitting and
+appropriate; he knows his eyes are blazing and his cheeks glowing with
+an unwonted fire, still his thoughts refuse to flow into the satisfying
+forms of speech he most desires to use at the coming meeting, which
+seems to him to be the marking of a great crisis in his life. Ah! There
+is the whistle sounding! The speed of the train is checked as it
+approaches the station. He steps on to the platform while the train is
+still moving. He beholds many upturned faces in the surging crowd
+between him and the doorway of the ladies' waiting room, but Miss
+Fenwick he cannot see. Will he ever reach that room? Has anything
+happened to her? A great fear contracts his heart, he fancies he fairly
+staggers as he enters the door. In an instant he is suffused with a
+great joy. By the window, awaiting his approach, stands Fern Fenwick,
+the perfect picture of cool, contented loveliness. She extends her hand
+and greets him with a firm clasp of hearty welcome, and a second edition
+of that dazzling smile, so becoming to her, so bewitching to him.
+
+"How do you do, Mr. Flagg? I believe your train must be late. How well
+you are looking, in spite of the heat and the dust! We will have your
+baggage secured as soon as possible and placed in the carriage, then we
+will drive to the cottage in time for lunch."
+
+"Thank you Miss Fenwick, I am delighted to see you looking so well. My
+journey from Washington has been a very pleasant one; I have enjoyed it
+and have not suffered from the heat."
+
+The carriage now came up, they stepped in and commenced the beautiful
+drive of one and one-half miles to "Fairy Fern Cottage," which was
+charmingly located on the summit of these famously terraced hills. Hills
+that have been historic since the revolutionary days of General
+Washington, when their slopes were white with the tents of his soldiers.
+As they approached the cottage, the artistic eye of Fillmore Flagg noted
+with pleasure the broad expanse of spacious lawn, gently sloping down to
+the road. Half-moon-shaped, it presented for his admiration five acres
+of smoothly shaven, velvety green. For one-eighth of a mile, the entire
+width of the lawn and cottage grounds, a low wall of ornamental cut
+stone separated the lawn from the road and formed the straight line of
+the half-moon. From the gates at either end of the wall a broad,
+beautifully kept driveway swept around the semicircle of the lawn,
+passing just in front of the cottage at the center of the deep bay of
+the half-moon. On each side of the driveway the greensward was
+beautified by alternating star and diamond-shaped plots of geraniums,
+roses, gladioluses, canna and nasturtions. Sitting close to the outer
+edge of the drive, about ten feet apart, commencing at the corners of
+the porch on either side, were rows of potted palms extending around the
+curve, one hundred and fifty feet each way--the palms gradually growing
+smaller as the distance from the cottage became greater. The effect was
+beautifully unique and suggestively semi-tropical. The cottage and lawn
+was embayed by a crowning crescent of choice foliage and shade trees;
+the thin horns of the crescent terminated at the gateways in low gray
+stone towers. From these points the horns gradually grew broader and the
+shrubbery rose higher. First the rhododendrons mixed with clumps of
+hollyhocks, next flowering almonds, roses, spireas and syringas; then
+came the drooping long leaf sugar pines, with an artistic mingling of
+slender limbed graceful silver birches: farther back were the taller
+firs and spruces, interspersed with thick clumps of small copper
+beeches, extending to and joining at the back of the cottage, the dense
+forest of tall, straight bodied elms, oaks and maples which partly hid
+and shaded the stables and the kitchen portion of the cottage.
+
+The cottage itself was built of gray stone; with thick walls and large,
+low, deep seated windows. It was two stories in height, with three
+square towers rising twenty feet higher. The central tower was larger,
+and gave space within its walls for one grand room of magnificent
+proportions, thirty feet square and with a fifteen foot ceiling. The
+general effect of the cottage, lawn, and crescent background of foliage
+and forest, was as novel as it was beautiful. As the carriage entered
+the farther gateway, Fillmore Flagg was surprised and delighted:
+
+"How perfectly exquisite!" he exclaimed: "A real gem! A romantic scene
+from fairyland! Rightly named 'Fairy Fern Cottage!' It is a fitting home
+for Fern Fenwick."
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick as they stepped from the
+carriage to the porch: "I appreciate your praise of my cottage home. I
+love it, I am proud of it, I give you a hearty welcome to its halls. May
+your memories of it prove always pleasant. Let us enter. During your
+stay you are to occupy the front room on the second floor, the one
+under the right hand tower. I think you will find the view from the
+windows very pleasing and attractive. The luncheon bell will sound in
+just half an hour."
+
+In the dining room Fillmore Flagg found Mrs. Bainbridge who greeted him
+very cordially. She sat at the left of Fern Fenwick, who was at the head
+of the table. The table itself was oval shaped, very large, seemingly of
+rich, solid mahogany; the china and silver were elegant and artistic.
+The center piece was a large silver tray filled with a wonderful
+collection of rare ferns. Around it a ring of cut glass bouquet holders,
+filled with spikes of flaming gladioluses, formed a most effective
+border.
+
+"You are to sit here at my right, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick.
+
+As Fillmore Flagg took the proffered seat, he thought her a most
+charming hostess, admirably fitted to preside over this exquisitely
+decorated table. He looked in vain for her father; finally concluding
+that Mr. Fenwick must be a confirmed invalid, confined to his room.
+Luncheon over, Fern Fenwick invited Fillmore Flagg to her study to
+consider the business of the work before them. Her study proved to be
+the large square room in the central tower, which was so generously
+lighted by its eight large windows. The furniture was of carved oak; the
+carpet and hangings, rich and heavy, were of a pale lilac tint, which
+gave an air of peaceful quiet and harmony to the room. From the front
+window, looking eastward, a long stretch of the beautiful Hudson could
+be seen at one sweeping glance. In the south east corner of the room
+stood Fern Fenwick's desk, a large one with a roll top. At the right of
+the desk, on an easel against the wall, was a very fine, life size
+crayon portrait of a noble looking man of sixty winters or more. The
+massive forehead was both broad and high and very smooth. The eyes were
+wide apart, large and expressive, the full beard, thick and fine; the
+hair, abundant and wavy. Both hair and beard were evenly tinged with
+gray. The body was large, erect and well proportioned--it fittingly
+matched the noble head. The portrait impressed one as being life-like
+and full of character. Close beside the easel was a large arm chair,
+upholstered with stuffed leather, a grayish brown. Lying across the arms
+of the chair was a large, peculiarly shaped trumpet of aluminum,
+ornamented with a heavy cord and tassel of gray silk.
+
+"Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick, "this is my private workroom; here I am
+undisturbed and not at home to callers. This is my desk. Here you see my
+father's portrait: this is his favorite chair. Will you be seated in the
+smaller chair near it? I will sit in the chair at my desk."
+
+"Pardon me, Miss Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "Up to this time I had
+thought of you as living here with your father: I now perceive, from the
+way you speak of his portrait and of his favorite chair, that he must be
+dead. Please correct me if I am wrong in my conclusions."
+
+"I will explain the situation in a very few words," said Fern Fenwick.
+
+"In the eyes of the world I am an orphan, my father and mother having
+both passed from this to the land of spirit. The world, in its blind
+ignorance, calls them dead. To me, thanks to my mediumship, and to the
+mighty truth of spirit communion, they are still conscious, living,
+loving parents. Every day, here in this room, they come to me and
+through the trumpet there, speak to me as naturally, as fluently and as
+lovingly as ever. I feel and realize their constant watchfulness and
+loving care. In times of need their advice never fails, always proving
+as wise as it is unerring. They never for a moment allow me to realize
+that I am an orphan in any sense of the word. The word Death has no
+terrors for me: I realize that for them it means simply a happy
+transition to a higher life, filled with broader and brighter
+possibilities; and, blessed truth! that they are permitted to come to me
+when I need them. I sometimes shudder when I think what might have
+happened to me if I had not been born and bred a spiritualist and a
+medium. However, we will speak of these things more at length later on.
+At this time, under my father's guidance and with your assistance, I am
+to carry out and complete his plans for the improvement of farm life on
+lines quite in harmony with your ideas. I know he approves of you and of
+your work, and has confidence in your integrity and ability. At the
+proper time he will speak to you personally through the trumpet. Let us
+now consider another matter pertinent at this time.
+
+"In order that you may thoroughly understand the situation that
+surrounds and affects our work, it will be necessary for me to tell you
+the story of my life, and with it the story of the life of my father."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+FENNIMORE FENWICK.
+
+
+"On a pioneer farm in northwestern Iowa, with a broad expanse of
+beautiful prairie on every side, far from town or village, lived my
+grandfather, George Fenwick. On this farm in October, 1840, my father,
+Fennimore Fenwick, was born. Of a family of nine children, five boys and
+four girls, he was the fifth, two of the brothers and two of the sisters
+being older. Closely associated as a healthy, harmonious family of
+children, they grew up surrounded by the conditions of an isolated farm
+life, so general in the widely scattered settlements of those early
+days, with only now and then rare chances for a little schooling of the
+most primitive character. However, they shared with each other their
+joys and sorrows, their plays and privations; always forbearing and
+patient, kind and affectionate, light-hearted, sympathetic and helpful,
+they did much to develop that broad, loving, genial nature which made my
+father kin to all mankind. So just and true! So nobly unselfish! A
+signal illustration of the great blessing which Nature's beneficent law
+of compensation brings to large families.
+
+"Passing on to September, 1865, at the close of the war of the
+rebellion, we find the large family, so long and harmoniously united,
+now separated and widely scattered. Grandfather and grandmother Fenwick
+both died during the closing year of the war. With the exception of my
+father, the brothers and sisters were all married and settled on farms
+of their own: some in Iowa, one in Missouri, two in Kansas, and two in
+Minnesota. The homestead was divided between the two younger brothers.
+All of the brothers served as soldiers, good and true, during the war;
+the two younger only one year each. My father, more fortunate than the
+others, by his bravery and soldierly excellence won a commission, and
+came home the captain of his company.
+
+"From this point forward we will follow my father's career as he makes a
+pathway in life for himself.
+
+"From 1865 to 1871 he devoted his time and his savings to hard study in
+the best of schools, finishing a master of his profession--a mining
+engineer and expert in assaying and metallurgy. From 1871 to 1882 he was
+general manager of a wealthy mining company in Colorado at a large
+salary, making a name for himself as one of the most skillful and
+successful men in the profession. While in Colorado my father was
+haunted by an intuitive feeling that the gold-bearing quartz region of
+Alaska held a rich find in store for him. In October, 1882, a very
+strong corporation was organized in San Francisco, 'The Alaska Mining
+Co.,' to open and operate their extensive mines in Alaska. The directors
+of the company chose my father manager. They offered him an increased
+salary to go to Alaska to take entire charge of the work. This position
+he accepted and retained for five years. During that time he discovered
+a very rich mine on a small, rocky island near the coast. In partnership
+with his old friend, Mr. Dunbar, one of the San Francisco directors of
+the Alaska Mining Co., my father, at the end of five years service for
+the company, had developed the mine on the island into one of the best
+paying and most extensive of that famously rich gold bearing quartz
+region. This was the foundation and support of his vast fortune, which
+thereafter required his entire attention. At the death of Mr. Dunbar,
+which occurred in 1890, his one-third interest in the mine passed to his
+son, Dewitt C. Dunbar, a young man of great energy and integrity, with
+an excellent business education. He impressed my father as one in every
+way trustworthy and capable. At my father's request, Dewitt C. Dunbar,
+accompanied by his young wife, at once removed to Alaska. Under my
+father's tuition he began to prepare himself to take the active
+management of the mine, which had been christened 'The Martina.'
+
+"In 1882, while on his first visit to San Francisco, my father met and
+loved Martina Morrison, my mother--my beautiful mother. She was
+twenty-seven, my father forty-two. They were perfectly adapted to each
+other, and both equally charmed and devoted. She possessed a fine mind,
+well cultured; a handsome physique, charmingly graceful in every
+movement; and, her crowning glory, an exceedingly amiable disposition.
+Martina Morrison, by those who knew her longest and best, was declared
+to be the soul of honor. She was an excellent medium, an enthusiastic
+and devoted Spiritualist--one of its purest and most eloquent exponents,
+highly esteemed by all as an able and earnest worker in the service of
+the two worlds. Fennimore Fenwick, my father, soon became much
+interested in her wonderful mediumship, and later became convinced of
+the absolute verity of the mighty truths of Spiritualism. He at once
+declared himself its willing and outspoken advocate: in his enthusiasm
+of delight he even hailed it as the coming religion of the world.
+
+"Martina Morrison had such confidence in my father's future mining
+success, that she readily yielded to his urgent request for a speedy
+marriage, that she might accompany him on his first trip to Alaska. And
+thus it was they sailed away on their bridal tour, their destination
+that far off land of flashing glacier and unexplored forest, almost, if
+not quite, beyond the borders of civilization. This long voyage to an
+unknown country had no terrors for them. They were all the world to each
+other. A bright halo of hope and happiness spread a soft glow of
+enchantment over ship and sail, sea and sky, so vivid, so far reaching,
+that it even touched and tinted the distant shores of that far off, rock
+bound coast of Alaska. Smooth seas, lovely weather and favoring winds
+speeded the voyagers: those halcyon days flew swiftly by. Almost before
+they dreamed it possible the vessel came to anchor in the port that
+marked the end of the voyage. Safely landed, my father reported at once
+at the office of The Alaska Mining Company, only a few miles distant.
+There he commenced his five years of management for the Company, of
+which I have already spoken. There my mother remained until December,
+1884, when she returned to San Francisco, to visit her friends. My
+father followed her five months later."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+AN ALASKA KINDERGARTEN.
+
+
+"In June, 1885, I was born, and soon became a very active member of the
+Fenwick family. I was pronounced by all who saw me an offspring in every
+way worthy of my noble father and my beautiful mother. When I was two
+months old, my parents returned to Alaska, taking me with them. There I
+remained until I was seven years old--seven years in that forbidding
+clime, so near the Arctic Circle. Isolated from other children, yet how
+happy and contented I was. Those years recall a troop of joyous
+memories, with not a bitter one to mar the group. My beloved parents
+were my only companions, playmates, teachers and confidants. I was
+papa's own girl. He was very proud of me and wished me to be with him as
+much as possible. He never wearied in the endless task of answering my
+questions, always so skillfully directing them by suggestions, that in
+my receptive mind there was soon unfolded a clear conception of the
+outlines of the different branches of all useful knowledge. When I was
+four years of age I knew the alphabet perfectly and could spell and
+construct a great number of words with my lettered blocks, and then copy
+them on my slate. When I was five years old, thanks to my mother's
+patient teaching, I could read fairly well. My father's ingenious
+methods soon made me familiar with the key-words of geology, chemistry,
+(including the names of minerals, metals and gases) botany, history,
+geography, physics and astronomy. I was unconsciously taught to
+associate these words or names with the groups, or families, to which
+they belong. I would spend hours with my father in the most delightful
+game of separating and classifying a miscellaneous heap of different
+colored blocks, bearing the names of minerals, metals and gases and the
+key-words of the studies I have just mentioned. To illustrate: The
+astronomy blocks were blue with the names in white letters; the geology
+blocks were a deep reddish brown, with names in gray; chemistry, red,
+lettered in black; botany, green, lettered in yellow; geography, gray,
+lettered in blue; history, black, lettered in red; physics, a deep
+orange yellow, lettered in white; mathematics was represented in a small
+way by the cipher and nine digits, lettered in black upon ten plain
+unpainted blocks, giving in their forms that number of the principal
+geometrical figures, to which was added a shallow box with a broad lid,
+perforated by ten holes, corresponding to the blocks in number, size and
+shape, but large enough for the blocks to easily pass through into the
+box.
+
+"In these groupings my childish interest and delight was intensified by
+my father's personification of the different families, such as: 'Mr.
+Astronomy Blue,' 'Mrs. Geology Brown,' 'Mr. Chemistry Red,' etc. For
+instance, the wonderful stories he told to me of the minerals, metals
+and gases--the sons and daughters of Mr. Chemistry Red, as he termed
+them--describing their loves and hates, the great variety of pranks they
+played, the queer combinations they entered into, the good and the bad
+work they performed, etc. These to me were fairy stories of the most
+charming kind, while at the same time they gave me a correct idea of the
+powers and properties of these unfamiliar things and served to identify
+them more closely as members of the chemistry family. My mother was a
+natural teacher, very proficient in botany, and in history, with its
+flower and fruitage of classic prose and inspiring poetry. She entered
+into my father's 'block-signal-system' of education with an enthusiasm
+as zealous and childish as my own, therefore her contributions to the
+rapidly increasing store of blocks were large and exceedingly
+interesting. Her stories regarding the numerous members of the botany
+and history families proved equally profitable and charming; those about
+plants and trees especially so. These stories and plays of science
+grouping, always associated with such pleasant emotions of my childish
+heart, became permanently fixed and dominant in my mental growth,
+forming separate brain structures around which the details of the
+accumulated knowledge of future years could easily and naturally
+classify and crystallize.
+
+"Thus swiftly passed those happy years of my early girlhood. So
+constantly was I associated with my dear father and mother that schools
+I did not need. In my seventh year, under their supervision, I commenced
+a systematic course of scientific reading which I kept up until after I
+graduated from college. I commenced with the Science Primer Series,
+reading aloud to my parents one half hour each morning and evening,
+conversing and commenting on the different topics as we went along. This
+proved to be a continuation of the game of blocks: just as interesting,
+equally entertaining; all about the same familiar families. I enjoyed it
+so much and never once dreamed I was accomplishing a great deal of good
+hard study. To me it was play; play that gave me more pleasure than any
+of my childish sports. I soon began to ask for an extension of the half
+hour lessons to an hour each; when my request was granted my cup of
+pleasure was full, my joy complete. With each succeeding week my
+interest in all my studies continued to grow. Yet my health remained
+perfect: my physical kept an even pace with my mental growth, largely
+owing, no doubt, to the much enjoyed hours of good romping exercise and
+the dancing and singing which followed my reading lessons.
+
+"You must pardon me, Mr. Flagg, if I should tire you with such a
+detailed account of my child life; my excuse must be, the valuable hints
+it may offer when we come to consider a school system for the children
+of our model co-operative farm."
+
+"I am profoundly interested," said Fillmore Flagg. "The very wonderful
+result flowing from the wise methods conceived by your parents and
+carried out by them so devotedly, fills my mind with admiration and
+offers a flood of suggestions as to the possibilities of what may be
+accomplished by a properly conducted, well equipped school on a
+co-operative farm. But you must not allow me to interrupt--please
+proceed with your very interesting story."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+AN INTERVIEW WITH THE "FAIRIES."
+
+
+Fern Fenwick rose from her seat saying: "As it is near sunset, Mr.
+Flagg, I have something to show you in the way of a surprise, which I
+wish you to see before it becomes too dark: after having seen it you
+will better understand why this house was named 'Fairy Fern Cottage.'
+Therefore I propose that we now adjourn to the cool shade of the grounds
+at the rear of the cottage, postponing the recital of the remainder of
+my story until this evening."
+
+"I shall be delighted to follow you," said Fillmore Flagg. "You have
+excited my curiosity; I am just in the mood to learn all I can about
+this lovely cottage and its beautiful surroundings."
+
+As they reached the shady lawn, so cool and sweet from its recent
+sprinkling, Fillmore Flagg observed that a wide, straight avenue, shaded
+by towering oaks and widely branching elms, led from the rear porch of
+the cottage to the broad front of the roomy stone stables, some two
+hundred and fifty feet distant. In the center of this avenue, with a
+finely graveled carriage drive on either side, rose a long line of huge
+stone arches, ten in number. These imposing structures of solid masonry
+were full thirty feet high, spreading to a width of thirty feet at the
+base. The two center arches were each twenty feet thick; the others, ten
+feet each. The open space between the arches was uniformly ten feet; the
+open circle under each arch was twenty feet in diameter. The vista
+formed by the spaces and arches together, was over two hundred feet in
+length. From the farther arch to the front of the stables lay thirty
+feet of smooth, clean gravel which covered, at this point, the full
+width of the avenue, seventy-five feet, forming the open court, around
+which was built the stables and the two tastefully designed stone
+buildings on either side--one, beautifully fitted up for the residence
+of the superintendent, the other containing the heating and pumping
+apparatus and the electric generator. The two wide center arches
+supported the huge metal tank which held the ample water supply of both
+cottage and outbuildings. Evidently, they were admirably adapted to that
+particular purpose. The rough stone work of the outside of all the
+arches was artistically covered and beautified by a luxuriant growth of
+intermingled ivy and cinnamon vine, which gave a still deeper shade to
+the interior. To the beholder, the exterior effect of the vines on the
+long line of arches was as beautifully romantic as if it really were one
+of those old Abbeys in picturesque ruin, so charmingly described by Sir
+Walter Scott. Deep grooves in the stone work, with light iron frames
+fastened near the outer edges of the arches, gave support during the
+cold weather to a roof of double glass, which covered all the open
+spaces between the arches, converting the whole into one vast
+greenhouse, through which passed the system of heating pipes from the
+furnace room to the cottage, thus providing a roomy winter home for an
+army of tropical plants and shrubs and at the same time protecting the
+water supply from the ill effects of all frost. A screen of interlacing
+vines, in place of the glass roof, now served to make the shade of the
+archway almost complete.
+
+Having sufficiently examined the exterior and becoming to some extent
+familiar with the general plan and purpose of these unique arches,
+Fillmore Flagg and Fern Fenwick returned to the covered entrance from
+the kitchen porch. Here, as they were standing a few feet above the
+ground, they had an unobstructed view of the interior of the archway.
+Through the center, where the lower disc of the open circles touched the
+ground, ran a deep bed of coarse gravel, covered with a thick layer of
+smooth round pebbles, forming a perfectly drained pathway about three
+feet in width which extended uniformly from one end of the archway to
+the other. Conforming to the contour of the arches, rising and receding
+in unison, this pathway was bordered on either side by what appeared to
+be a continuous terrace of three stone benches, each one foot high and
+of the same width. These benches really were very heavy square terra
+cotta pipes, ingeniously cemented together with telescopic joints, and
+having thick, grooved covers which formed the protecting conduits for
+the wires of the lighting system and the pipes of the irrigating and
+heating apparatus.
+
+Artistically arranged on these benches, in pots that were beautifully
+modeled, colored and glazed, was a wonderful collection of choice ferns,
+embracing all of the known varieties in prodigal profusion. The pots
+were so arranged that the smaller varieties occupied the lower benches,
+with the larger ones in gradually increasing sizes on the higher benches
+farther back. Viewed from either end of the archway they formed two
+matchless banks of the rarest verdure and the loveliest foliage
+the world ever saw. Everywhere the eye was delighted by great
+masses of drooping fronds of delicate green, like rare lace in
+fineness--outrivaling in beauty the plumes of the famous birds of
+paradise.
+
+"This is simply superb!" exclaimed Fillmore Flagg. "I never saw anything
+one half so lovely! Shall we walk through now?"
+
+"Wait a moment, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick. "The twilight shadows are
+so deep you have, as yet, caught only a glimpse of the rare beauty of my
+lovely ferns." Stepping quickly to the right side of the first arch, she
+pressed a button and lo! those wonderful banks of ferns, and all the
+space of the archway, was flooded with a glory of soft, clear light. A
+thousand tiny bulbs, in a lovely variety of flower and fern leaf
+patterns, gleamed and glowed from beneath the ferny banks or hung
+pendant, rainbow like, from the roof of this rock ribbed archway.
+
+Held spellbound for some moments by his surprise, admiration and
+delight, Fillmore Flagg murmured softly, almost in a whisper: "Can
+anything surpass this vision of perfect beauty?"
+
+"Yes," said Fern Fenwick, radiant and smiling, "I think it can be
+surpassed, but we must allow the enchantress to use her magic once more,
+by giving my darling ferns their bath of beauty. Then you shall see them
+in their diamond robes."
+
+Saying this, she pressed another button. A thousand tiny pipes,
+concealed in the ribs of the stone roof, gave forth a shower of fine
+spray, filling the long fernery with a hazy mist of cobweb fineness.
+Very soon millions of globules of moisture gathered on leaf, stock,
+frond, plume and tiny tip of every leaflet, reflecting each ray of light
+with diamond-like brilliancy. Pressing another button to shut off the
+spray, Fern Fenwick said:
+
+"Now, Mr. Flagg, my ferns have donned their royal robes and are ready
+for your tour of admiring inspection. I assure you they are worthy of
+it. As a choice collection of ferns in such perfect condition, its equal
+cannot be found in all the wide world! As a collector I am an
+enthusiast; for many months I have travelled far and wide in my efforts
+to add new specimens of rare beauty to the original collection. You may
+guess how much I prize it when I tell you that money could not buy it."
+
+"You are surely a most wonderful enchantress," replied Fillmore Flagg.
+"I feel that under the potent spell of your magical wand, I have entered
+the inner mysteries of some glorious temple of ferns, in a world of
+enchantment! I am so fascinated and dazzled by this marvellous display
+of brilliancy and beauty, that I am moved to pay homage to you, Miss
+Fenwick, as a fitting tribute of loyal devotion to Fern, the Fairy Queen
+of this fair temple."
+
+As he finished his gallant speech, the deep tones of emotion vibrating
+in the full rich voice of Fillmore Flagg, and the look of intense
+admiration which shone so eloquently from his eyes, brought a flush of
+color to the fair face of Fern Fenwick and warned her that it was time
+to be moving. Skillfully keeping up the personification, she quickly
+said:
+
+"Mr. Flagg, I am delighted on behalf of the fairies to express thanks
+for the glowing tribute to their Queen which you have so beautifully
+voiced. Let us now walk through to the end of the fernery and return. As
+we pass along I will point out my favorite plants."
+
+Only a few steps had been taken when Fillmore Flagg paused, listening
+and looking about him in all directions, with a very puzzled expression.
+A delightfully cool breeze was fanning their faces: this breeze was
+laden with some strangely sweet perfume both soothing and stimulating to
+the senses. The air all about them seemed to vibrate with the distant
+melody of some angelic music, now sinking, now swelling in perfect
+harmony; so soft, so clear, so bright, so inspiring in its wealth of
+tone and joyous movement.
+
+"Ah! Miss Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "my senses are all entranced!
+Your wonderful fairies in this grotto of magic are at this moment
+thrilling my being with sensations of the most intense delight! How can
+the Fairy Queen explain? What has she been doing with her magical wand
+to produce such delicious perfume; such entrancing music?"
+
+Fern's merry laugh rang out musically clear, and her eyes sparkled
+roguishly as she replied: "I assure you Mr. Flagg, that in this instance
+the fairies are not responsible. The explanation is quite simple but
+rather long. Therefore let us move forward while I give you the details:
+As we were stepping down on this graveled walk, I turned the switch and
+started the ventilating fans, at the same time connecting the electric
+current with a series of melophones located near the top of the arches.
+Along the ventilating tubes, in a series of small compartments, are
+sponges saturated with different kinds of perfume. These sponges can be
+exposed to the air current or withdrawn at will, yielding a single
+perfume or a blending of as many kinds as one may wish. The wonderful
+variety of these choice blendings, which can be so easily produced,
+affords a constant succession of sweet surprises. The melophones which
+you hear, represent the highest achievement of art in the production of
+automatic musical instruments. This set is the most complete and the
+most expensive one in existence. In construction and final completion
+they cost the inventor and maker three years of constant thought and
+labor. The result is truly marvellous. The perfection of harmony and
+purity of tone are convincing testimonials of their excellence. In
+operation these instruments are placed in a very large double tube made
+from a peculiar kind of metallic alloy recently discovered, which
+affords the most perfect conditions for the conservation and
+conductivity of all musical vibrations. They are capable of producing an
+almost endless variety of choice music. The selection which we hear at
+this time, is one which I have re-named 'The Carol of the Ferns.' Pardon
+me, Mr. Flagg, if in my enthusiasm over the beauties of what you have so
+poetically termed my 'magical temple of ferns,' some of my statements
+should sound like boasting; I assure you they are not so intended. I
+trust that now I have cleared up the mystery to your perfect
+satisfaction."
+
+"Charmingly," said Fillmore Flagg, "Nevertheless my fairyland illusions
+still abide with me; I confess I am still under the spell of the great
+happiness they have given to me--I shall never forget it. The truth in
+this case proves even stranger than fiction; I quite agree with you that
+in all the wide world there is nothing like this! It seems to me that
+those extraordinary melophones yield the finest music I have ever heard.
+In sweetness and purity of tone, softness and wealth of harmony, which
+is pervaded by some electric quality of inspiration, so stirring, so
+thrilling that every nerve and every cell in the body responds. They
+stand unrivaled as the very acme of musical art. I now understand why
+your lovely home here should be named 'Fairy Fern Cottage.' I fully
+appreciate the significance of the title. This royal temple of ferns
+makes the name most fittingly appropriate, and easily ranks this cottage
+as the eighth wonder of the world! The fame of its rare beauty should be
+known in every land. You ought to be very proud of it. I assure you,
+Miss Fenwick, that you are abundantly justified in praising it
+enthusiastically at all times, without fear of being considered
+egotistical. But tell me, if I may be permitted to ask, who was the
+wonderful genius who first conceived and planned the building of this
+imposing line of arches? So useful, so ornamental, so unique, yet so
+perfectly adapted as a summer and a winter home for your ferns and
+flowers and, withal, offering such a perfect title to your unrivaled
+cottage home."
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Flagg, for that question. In my reply I am eager to pay
+a deserved tribute to the dearest and noblest of men--my father.
+Inspired by his love for me, his brilliant mind conceived the entire
+plan and purpose of this curiously novel structure. He succeeded in
+completing it and also in filling it with the original collection of
+ferns, without my knowledge. On the morning of my fifteenth birthday,
+he brought me here to bestow upon me this priceless gift. The surprise
+was a perfect one. When he made me understand that he gave with it a
+deed to the cottage and grounds, the surprise became so intense that it
+fairly took my breath away. I was so overjoyed that by turns I laughed,
+and cried, and hugged papa, until I came very near to having a genuine
+fit of hysteria! At that time we changed the name of the house to Fairy
+Fern Cottage. This is why I am so proud and so fond of my cottage home.
+This is why I appreciate your praise of it so much--why I am so thankful
+for it. I feel sure that you will now appreciate my sincerity when I
+repeat that money could not buy it!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+THE PROBLEM VS. A GOOD MAN WHO IS AS RICH AS HE IS NOBLE.
+
+
+After supper Fern Fenwick and Fillmore Flagg returned to the tower room
+for the continuation of the story. She began by saying:
+
+"Let us return to my father's mining operations in Alaska. In 1892,
+Dewitt C. Dunbar assumed the active management of the Martina mine. A
+large proportion of my father's surplus capital from the mine had been
+invested, through trusty agents, in the cities of San Francisco, Saint
+Paul, Chicago, Washington and New York. We at once planned a tour of
+travel that would give him the opportunity to personally inspect these
+investments, and at the same time give me a chance to see the world,
+and to mingle in society, or so much of it as a continuous hotel life
+might offer.
+
+"For my mother and myself this delightful tour was one long holiday. We
+enjoyed it so much. To me especially, it proved exceedingly profitable;
+geographically speaking, my ideas of the largeness of the world, and the
+vast number of its people, were wonderfully expanded. In December, 1893,
+father completed his investments by the purchase of a winter home in the
+city of Washington, and this summer home here. This cottage was built in
+the year 1900.
+
+"During the summer of 1894 we visited the brothers and sisters of my
+father, who were at that time living with their families on farms in
+Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri. As was generally the
+rule, with a large class of farmers in those states at that time, we
+found them, with but few exceptions, poor, in debt, and very much
+discouraged by the menacing outlook for the future. Farm interests
+everywhere were in a desperate condition. A succession of twenty years
+of falling prices for all farm products, accompanied by frequent
+calamities, such as hail storms, hurricanes, hot, blighting winds,
+drouth and armies of grasshoppers, had so multiplied and magnified the
+farm debts, and so reduced the value of farm, stock, and product, that
+even the interest on the indebtedness could no longer be kept up; ruin
+and beggary threatened the entire community of farmers. Under the severe
+pressure of these conditions, great numbers of the more unfortunate
+abandoned their farms in despair and sought employment elsewhere, mostly
+in manufacturing centres and the large eastern cities. Much of the money
+and wealth of the land had flown to those points, thither logically,
+they followed, to enter the ranks of that vast army of competitors for
+the crumbs that might fall from the table of an already glutted labor
+mart; to learn by bitter experience how cruelly the system of
+competition in all kinds of business can grind the helpless poor; to
+learn, through years of suffering, the real meaning of competition, that
+so long as it rules over commercial and industrial systems, the rich
+must grow richer and fewer in number, while the poor must grow poorer,
+and more and more numerous; to apprehend, slowly and painfully, that by
+coming from farm to city they had still farther congested the already
+overstocked labor market, thereby adding fierceness to the competition,
+insuring an increase in the purchasing power of the dollars of those who
+held the labor market, while they correspondingly decreased the
+possibilities for earning the dollars they must have in order to live;
+to perceive dimly in their desperation, that congestion of the labor
+market speedily affected all markets; that an overstocked labor market
+always meant a decrease of wages, which in turn, caused a corresponding
+shrinkage in the number of purchasers for all salable goods in the
+general market, followed by increased panic and stringency in the money
+market; which speedily rolled up another disaster, sweeping in turn,
+additional thousands into the ranks of the unemployed; demonstrating,
+finally, that a repetition of these evils is inevitable; that
+competition in its last analysis, means the complete destruction of all
+business.
+
+"As my father came to understand the full significance of this
+deplorable situation, involving and distressing his own brothers and
+sisters, his noble nature was grieved and shocked. He made haste to
+place his people in a condition of financial independence. How happy and
+grateful they were! And my father rejoiced with us that he was able to
+offer such timely assistance. He then announced to us his determination
+to devote the remainder of his life, and so much of his fortune as might
+be necessary, to the solution of the problem of how best to overcome the
+blighting evils of the competitive system. After much thought, long
+research and hard study, he decided to commence with the land as the
+necessary basis of all progress; with the farm as the rational
+progressive unit; with improved farm methods on co-operative lines, as
+the lever by which to restore the control of the land to the farmers,
+and to lift them and their sons and daughters from the class of ignorant
+dependents, to a class of cultured independents, which should be well
+worthy of serving as a model in the race of progress, for all the other
+classes. In his efforts to modify, correct, and reform social and
+business methods, he proposed to use the strong and kindly arms of
+Co-operation in fighting the evils of Competition, or its
+representative, the pitiless competitive system. He reasoned that all
+forms of government are but the result of co-operative effort. Both
+experience and observation had taught him that the measure of excellence
+of any government is the measure of its perfection in co-operation.
+Therefore it logically follows, that the more perfect the co-operation
+achieved by the administration of any form of government, the greater
+the degree of justice and equality attained in the distribution of
+benefits to all of the governed."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+THE REAPING OF THE DEATH ANGEL.
+
+
+"Towards the close of the summer of 1895, my father placed me in the
+preparatory department of Vassar College, where I made rapid progress. I
+began to appreciate the superior wisdom of the methods of teaching which
+my parents had so systematically carried out for my improvement. Thanks
+to their efforts, I held the key to all of the sciences, history and
+literature, prose and poetry! All of their principal words or terms with
+their definitions, were familiar friends to me; while all new facts
+regarding their various subdivisions, auxiliaries, etc., and the
+relations existing between them as such, were matters of absorbing
+interest to me; so much so, that I soon became master of the subject I
+was studying, very often proving a puzzling surprise to my teachers. At
+the age of twelve I entered the regular course and graduated from
+college just as I was entering my eighteenth year, being by four years
+the youngest member of a graduating class of one hundred girls.
+
+"Some months after my fourteenth birthday, my darling mother was taken
+from me in the mortal form, very suddenly and most unexpectedly. My
+father was away from home on a long trip to Alaska. I was at Vassar. My
+mother was with a congenial party of friends at a favorite seaside
+resort. One day while bathing, one lady of the party swam too far out,
+was taken with a cramp and shrieked for help. My mother, who was
+nearest, being an excellent swimmer, courageously went to her
+assistance. Unfortunately, the tide was running full and strong and was
+against my mother in her heroic struggle to save her friend. Alas!
+before aid could reach them both sank beneath the waves and were lost.
+My noble mother had generously sacrificed her earthly existence in her
+brave effort to save the life of another! This was my first experience
+of the grief and desolation that follows the reaping of the Death Angel.
+In my youth, my half-dazed condition, I could neither realize nor
+understand what later became so plain to me; that to die is to live
+again. That death, so-called, is but the change from one form of life to
+another, which is still higher in the scale of progress. Nor could I
+then realize, that for the purpose of bringing to me a consciousness of
+the possibilities of my spiritual being; under the ministrations of the
+angel of compensation, out of the very depths of the gulf of bereavement
+and sadness through which I was passing, there was coming to me the
+precious gift of a priceless mediumship, the marvelous key! the
+all-potent 'open sesame' with which to unlock the gates between the two
+worlds and reunite the separated loved ones on either side.
+
+"At that time Mrs. Bainbridge, then but recently widowed, was in charge
+of the old home here. She was an excellent medium who had often proved
+herself worthy of my mother's entire confidence. Acting under the
+guidance of my arisen mother, she at once, without hesitation, took
+charge of all business arrangements, especially those of preparing for
+the cremation of my mother's body, in accordance with her often
+expressed wish. She telegraphed the sad news to my father in Alaska,
+asking for instructions. He replied at once that the body must be
+cremated, as my mother had directed in her will. He would return as soon
+as possible, but at the best he could not hope to arrive in less than
+two months. In the meantime, Mrs. Bainbridge was authorized to take
+entire charge of 'Fern,' and of his business affairs that needed
+attention, until he came.
+
+"I came home from college, sorely grieved and shocked at the awful
+suddenness of my mother's transition, but through the mediumship of Mrs.
+Bainbridge, my mother, having her in a deep trance, was soon able to
+comfort me; to make me realize that she was not dead, but still near me
+with all a mother's love and tender care. From time to time she directed
+Mrs. Bainbridge how to manage the pressing business that came up. She
+told me that she had long known that I was endowed with wonderful
+mediumistic power, which must now be fully developed for her sake, as a
+necessary and natural channel of communication so desirable to her,
+which she should prize very highly. Also as a source of comfort for
+myself and my father, especially as a joyful surprise for him when he
+came home. Therefore it was decided between us that I was to sit one
+hour each day with Mrs. Bainbridge for development. My mother seemed to
+feel sure that I would make an excellent trumpet medium, and encouraged
+me by predicting my speedy development as such. Strangely enough, so it
+proved. My progress was rapid. In two weeks time my mother could speak
+to me through the trumpet without difficulty and much to my delight. I
+began to appreciate the great value of my wonderful gift and to
+understand what it meant. Our dear family circle, which in my despair I
+had thought broken forever, was now reunited. Father, mother, daughter!
+just us three as of yore. And--the wonder of it--I, the youngest, the
+weakest and the least wise of the trio, was the instrument! When I
+thought of the possibilities, of the joy and consolation it would bring
+to my father and mother, my heart swelled with gratitude and
+thankfulness that this mighty power had come to me. The power to destroy
+the dread of death; to demonstrate the continuity of life; to prove that
+the binding love of family ties, kindred, and cherished friends still
+shone with untarnished lustre beyond the shadows of the silent grave.
+How beautiful, how wonderful, how glorious it was! And with this power
+came the solemn charge that I was to cherish it with care and keep it
+pure and holy. Yes, I resolved that I would do this conscientiously. It
+should be my highest ambition to ever use my mediumship with my best and
+most unselfish aspirations, to keep it apart from the grosser things of
+life, to dedicate it to good and to good alone. And thus it was that my
+mediumship continued to develop and grow in perfection. My mother could
+talk with me as often as she wished and as long at each sitting as she
+desired. I was no longer alone or despondent, my darling mother still
+could be, and was really, my mentor, friend, parent, teacher and
+spiritual guide. I forgot to mourn or to feel lonely, though I longed
+for my father's homecoming that we might share this new found joy. So
+interested was I and so occupied, that the two months quickly passed and
+my dear father reached his home in safety. I had arranged for a quiet
+evening with him alone. When my mother, through the trumpet, joined in
+the conversation and welcomed him with loving words of endearment, so
+familiar in the greetings of other days, he was almost overcome by the
+flood of ecstatic emotions that moved and thrilled him as he began to
+appreciate the significance of such a miraculous surprise. His heart was
+glowing and his entire being permeated with this great wave of
+happiness. His face was radiant with joy and beamed with fatherly
+affection and pride as he pressed me to his heart again and again,
+thanking me for my thoughtful spiritual work in the development of my
+wonderful gift, which, for his consolation, I had striven so
+unselfishly, so ardently and so earnestly to attain, while facing alone
+the one great crisis of my young life. Still holding me in his arms, he
+looked into my eyes long and fondly, almost adoringly, as he said: 'With
+such a daughter, whose loving heart and purity of soul has won for her
+the marvellous power to reunite our broken family circle, I am indeed
+the most fortunate of all men.' Then in a moment I perceived that I was
+no longer a child, I was a woman; that henceforth my father would think
+of me as a woman--still his loving daughter--but also his equal, his
+confidant, his trusted friend, his adviser in times of need, his oracle,
+his medium of communication with the loved ones who dwelt in the world
+of spirit. How good and beautiful was life in the light of this new
+vista of possibilities and responsibilities for me! For the moment I
+seemed to be transported to some grand spiritual height, where as a
+responsive spiritual unit, I felt the throbbing of the limitless sea of
+environmental life surrounding me like a golden mist, on every hand.
+Every pulsation proclaimed my immortality as a part of that boundless
+sea; boundless, fathomless, unthinkably shoreless! of life,
+all-producing, all-containing! My soul no longer questioned. It was
+filled with a peace and joy that passeth the power of words to describe.
+
+"Thus inspired and encouraged for the future, I was ready and eager to
+take up again the active duties of life. In resuming my collegiate
+studies, it was agreed between my father and mother and myself, that I
+should come home from Vassar every Friday evening, returning by the
+early train Monday morning, the intervening time to be sacredly devoted
+to our trumpet family circles. Oh, Mr. Flagg! How happy we were then!
+For the next three years nothing was allowed to interfere with these
+delightful reunions, whose memories are associated with so many
+incidents that bound us three so closely with the silver cords of pure
+affection.
+
+"After leaving college, I accompanied my father in all of his
+journeyings after new data in economics and agriculture. For this
+purpose we spent the winter of 1902-3, travelling in France, Italy,
+Germany and England, returning to America in April, 1903."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+THE MARTINA MINE.
+
+
+"Early in June of the same year, Dewitt C. Dunbar discovered a new lead
+in the Martina mine which proved to be of such marvelous size and
+richness, that my father's personal inspection was demanded at the
+earliest possible moment, to decide on the best methods of pushing
+forward the new work, and also to determine what part of the old work
+should be continued. The numerous letters and telegrams from Mr. Dunbar,
+all urging the utmost haste on my father's part, gave him but little
+time to consider the results of such a long journey, or to make the
+proper preparations for it. It was evident that Mr. Dunbar must be in a
+state of intense excitement. In order to catch the next steamer from San
+Francisco, father left a number of important items of business for me to
+transact. I wished very much to go with him but all the circumstances
+seemed to conspire against me. Father promised to return at the earliest
+possible moment, meanwhile he was to send me a dispatch announcing his
+safe arrival in Alaska. By the end of July, messages, and later, letters
+began to reach me announcing the wonderful output of gold from the new
+lead. So rich was the ore that for a time it was thought best to abandon
+all work in the old mine. I could see very plainly from his letters that
+the fever of Mr. Dunbar's excitement and enthusiasm had also claimed my
+father as a victim. I then foresaw that his stay in Alaska would be
+prolonged far beyond my expectations or his own. I began to feel very
+uneasy and to wish most fervently that I had insisted on going with him.
+I resolved in future to keep him company wherever he journeyed.
+Meanwhile the yield of gold from the new lead continued to increase. The
+value of the Martina rose like magic; offers to purchase at fabulous
+prices came pouring in. Mr. Dunbar would not accept, and decided, then
+and there, to remain another ten years as manager and resident
+superintendent of the mine. That settled the question. After that, my
+father announced that the mine was not for sale at any price. In writing
+to me concerning the matter, he says:
+
+
+     "'My Dear Fern: * * * I at that time decided that my interest in
+     the mine which I had named for your mother, and which had proven
+     the luckiest and richest in Alaska, should pass to you as it came
+     to me, entirely unencumbered. So rest assured, my daughter, so
+     long as Dewitt C. Dunbar is able and willing to manage the mine,
+     both my interests and yours are in safe hands; in skill, honesty
+     and ability he is one of the grandest men I have ever known; he is
+     a treasure. You can trust him implicitly!'
+
+
+"As I had anticipated, it was December before my father could leave
+Alaska. In a letter dated Dec. 5, to which I shall again refer, he says:
+
+
+     "'I have planned to leave here on a steamer that sails on the tenth
+     of this month. I fear the voyage may prove a rough one. I have a
+     foolish dread of it, which is quite unusual for me. I am oppressed
+     by an uneasy feeling which I strive in vain to shake off. However,
+     I have taken good care to make such arrangements with Mr. Dunbar as
+     will cover all possible contingencies. This is to be my last trip.'
+
+
+"On the twelfth of December I received a message from Mr. Dunbar,
+stating that Fennimore Fenwick had sailed on the tenth as he had
+planned; that he was well and strong, and would wire me as soon as he
+reached San Francisco. This cheering message gave me new courage, I
+began to count the days and to look forward more hopefully. I decided,
+although it was so late in the season, to wait here in the cottage until
+my father came. When Mrs. Bainbridge left to open our house in
+Washington, I had intended to follow her a few days before Christmas,
+but for some unexplained reason, I could not make up my mind to leave
+the cottage. After the message came the question was settled--I was to
+remain here."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+SPIRIT AND MORTAL.--FATHER AND DAUGHTER.
+
+
+"At this point, Mr. Flagg, I wish you to carefully note the significance
+of the strange event which soon followed. Christmas Eve, 1903, found me
+here alone, seated at my desk, alternately reading, musing and writing.
+All day a terrific snow storm had been raging, at nightfall it continued
+with increased severity. I could hear the fierce gale shriek as it
+lashed the tree tops furiously. I shuddered when I thought what danger
+such a gale might mean to the good steamer, bearing my father homeward
+bound across the rough, icy waters of that far off wintry sea; that
+yawning, terrible, treacherous sea!
+
+"During the afternoon I had been nervous and lonely. As a solace, I had
+a long talk from my mother through the trumpet, which cheered and
+comforted me greatly, especially her confident promise that I should
+hear from papa even sooner than I had hoped. Over this I was musing when
+a strange thing happened. I was startled by the low tones of a familiar
+voice from the trumpet. Almost frozen with fear, I heard: 'Do not be
+frightened, my darling; I am your father, Fennimore Fenwick, who loves
+you, if possible, more than ever. A frightful storm wrecked the steamer
+and released me from my body. Nearly all of the passengers and crew
+perished with me. A few still survive; they are in a single open boat,
+tossing helplessly in the awful surge of that wild waste of water,
+possibly they may yet be saved. My dear wife, Martina, your own
+beautiful mother, was watching and waiting for me at the scene of the
+wreck. Hers the beautiful arms that welcomed me as I was born into the
+new life of the spirit. How glorious it was that she, so dear to me,
+could be there. In the radiance and splendor of all her spiritual
+loveliness, I was charmed almost to the point of forgetfulness. I seemed
+to be floating on the bosom of a sea of golden mist, my spirit filled
+with a measureless contentment. Presently I awoke to a vivid
+consciousness of my new life. In the light of the loving eyes of my
+peerless Martina, I was soon made to realize that I had just passed
+painlessly from life mortal to life spiritual. I perceived that time and
+space no longer barred the flight of my freed spirit. Hand in hand we
+came; almost before I knew it we were here. Thanks to your mediumship,
+and to this trumpet, I could come and speak to you so soon. Yes, my dear
+child, we three, a loving trio, are still united just as of yore. I
+shall be permitted to help you, from this side of life, to carry out and
+complete my plans and purposes regarding improved modes of farm life. I
+wrote you from Alaska on the fifth of this month, announcing my
+intention of sailing on the tenth; that letter came by a Victoria
+steamer and will soon reach you. At that time I was weighed down by a
+premonition of some impending disaster. So seriously was I impressed,
+that I at once made arrangements with Dewitt C. Dunbar, in case of my
+death, to continue to operate the mine in partnership with you on the
+terms now in force, and this he was perfectly willing to do. By the
+terms of my will, now in the hands of my attorneys at Washington, you
+are at this moment, sole heir to my large fortune. As you know, I long
+ago placed my brothers and sisters beyond the reach of want. Well do I
+know, my dear girl, that I can trust you perfectly, to carry forward my
+work.'
+
+"As his voice ceased to vibrate in the trumpet, I sprang to my feet
+with outstretched and imploring hands: 'Father!' I cried, 'How can I do
+this work alone? I am yet but a child, with a very limited business
+experience to fit me for this great responsibility.' He at once replied:
+'Fear not, my child. Faithful, capable, and trustworthy help shall be
+brought to you. At all times I shall be near, to advise, and to guard
+you and your interests. Go forward bravely in the conscious power of
+your own potential spirit, dominant and dauntless. Armed with the
+majesty and mystery of your mediumship, all obstacles shall yield, and
+naught shall prevail over you!' This prophetic command, so thrilling, so
+imperative, touched and stirred my inner self; my soul responded to the
+appeal. In one brief moment I regained my self control; was calm, could
+think clearly and reason logically.
+
+"At intervals throughout the night I continued to consult with my
+parents. My father advised me to write at once, announcing his death,
+and requesting Mr. Dunbar to fix a time at which he could meet me in San
+Francisco, for a conference. This I did at the earliest practicable
+moment."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.
+
+
+At this point in her story, Fern Fenwick said: "Mr. Flagg, I now realize
+the wonderful prescience of my father's promise of abundant and timely
+help, especially when I consider your life work, and the masterly way
+you have equipped yourself for it, and finally, by the mysterious manner
+in which we were brought together. Is it not almost like a miracle?"
+
+"Really, Miss Fenwick, I am lost in amazement! It seems to me that I
+must be dreaming! The situation is so entirely outside of my experience,
+so unthinkably strange to me, that I doubt my ability to discuss it
+intelligently. Your story is the most marvelous of anything I have ever
+heard. I feel quite sure that it must be strictly true, yet I can
+scarcely comprehend it. A host of questions arise in my mind, which I
+wish to ask, if I may be permitted. When you heard the voice from the
+trumpet, how could you feel so sure it was your father speaking? That he
+had been swallowed up by the sea? That the shipwreck had really
+occurred?"
+
+"I do not wonder at your questions, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick, "I
+will gladly answer as best I can. Without considering or discussing the
+fact that the crucial test of identity was disclosed by almost every
+word which my father uttered, yet I could not for a moment doubt his
+presence. I knew he was there. I recognized every intonation of the
+voice. I felt the identity of his spiritual personality, radiant with
+the silent force of his love for me, quite as plainly as though at that
+moment his physical personality had entered the room. My experience
+after my mother's transition, the development of my mediumship, and my
+increased sensitiveness to the presence of spiritual entities, no doubt
+aided me greatly. At that time I perceived and recognized without
+question, that life in the physical is but the expression of the spirit,
+or Ego; that after the passing of the physical, the Ego inherits and
+possesses immortality as a conscious individual entity, clothed with a
+spiritual body, perfectly fitted for its continued existence in the
+realms of the world of spirit; that, through the action of a natural
+law, the law of mediumship, such spirits can and do, come to and
+communicate with their friends and loved ones in earth life. All these
+things, I knew my father understood clearly, therefore I was prepared to
+accept the verity of his spiritual presence as readily as I would any
+other phenomenon of nature. In conclusion, I may as well tell you at
+this point, that the letter referred to by father as having been written
+by him in Alaska on December fifth, together with my conference in San
+Francisco, some months later, with Dewitt C. Dunbar; the arrival in port
+at that time of a China steamer, bringing the mate and four sailors as
+sole survivors from the wreck of the ill-fated steamer, and my interview
+with them, all confirmed, in every particular, the truth of the
+statements concerning the matter, which were made by my spirit father,
+just after his passage through the gateway of death from life mortal to
+life spiritual. Can I add anything more convincing?"
+
+"Pardon me, Miss Fenwick! I believe what you have told me is absolutely
+true. I can perceive and appreciate its wonderful significance only in
+part. I understand now clearly why it was necessary for me to know so
+much of the story of your life and that of your noble father. I have
+listened to your story with almost breathless interest, with all I am
+profoundly impressed. A new world is opening to me. My mental and
+spiritual horizon has been extended beyond the power of words to
+express. Life has a thousand new meanings: In them I read the importance
+and responsibility of the great work we are about to undertake. I wait
+with increased interest for my personal interview with your father. Now
+that I have heard so much of him, I bow with added reverence to his
+great and noble love for humanity which prompted, and his wonderful
+genius which conceived and planned the work so generously. I am proud
+and thankful that I have been chosen as an instrument deemed capable and
+worthy of helping to carry it forward.
+
+"As to things spiritual, pertaining to a life beyond the grave, I am
+intensely interested and eager to know more. May I hope, Miss Fenwick,
+that you will kindly consent to become my teacher in this new school of
+wonderful phenomena and spiritual law? I too, am alone in the world; my
+father and mother have both passed the bitter flood of the dark river of
+death. They too, like your parents, must now be living in the world of
+spirit as conscious, loving father and mother, with hearts filled with a
+living, glowing affection that can and will respond to my own. Can it be
+possible that I am to feel and know this by direct communication with
+them?"
+
+"I shall be delighted, Mr. Flagg, to help you in this matter in any way
+that I can. Your desire for a direct communication from your parents is
+perfectly natural and right and, I doubt not, will be fully gratified in
+a few days.
+
+"In this connection, let me ask: Have you ever had a seance with a
+medium? Do you know anything about the laws that control and govern
+mediumship? Have you been interested to any extent in reading the
+all-comprehensive philosophy which mediumship demonstrates?"
+
+"I am very glad, Miss Fenwick, that you have put those questions. I
+desire to state briefly and frankly my attitude, up to this time,
+towards mediumship and the philosophy and phenomena of spiritual
+manifestations generally: I believe I was a born agnostic. All my life I
+have been skeptical as to the verity of a life beyond the grave. In this
+I have differed widely from my people, a large majority of whom have
+been zealous Presbyterians for at least five generations, while I have
+followed Voltaire and Ingersoll. In the ranks of their following I have
+been content to cry: 'I don't know! I can wait! One world at a time is
+enough for me!' As to mediumship, or any manifestations of it, I know
+almost nothing. The few mediums I have met accidentally, have
+unfortunately failed to impress me favorably. All that I have heard or
+read of them has had a strong tendency to prejudice me against them and
+the philosophy they taught. Therefore, until my visit to this cottage, I
+have never been at all interested in the matter. I now perceive that in
+studying the great problem of life, and how best to learn most about it,
+I have utterly ignored one of the most important sources of both
+information and inspiration. My prejudice and indifference have
+vanished. I wonder at myself, at my readiness to accept your point of
+view regarding your most marvelous mediumship and its wonderful
+manifestations; at my feverish interest and anxiety to learn all I can
+about things spiritual at the earliest possible moment; at my intense
+longing for the complete verification of all the beautiful propositions
+relating to spiritual life which you have stated so eloquently and so
+convincingly; but most of all do I wonder and am amazed that these
+things are not miracles; that they occur through the action of natural
+law, which, if true, makes it possible--nay probable--that mediumship
+and its manifestations are as old as life itself. This, Miss Fenwick,
+defines my position as clearly as I can state it. Do you think I am
+likely to prove a pupil worthy of his teacher?"
+
+"I most assuredly do, Mr. Flagg," said Fern. "I think you are now
+prepared for the promised interview with my father. However, before he
+joins us, I wish to say by way of explanation, that when I am here
+alone, he can use the trumpet with ease at any moment and in any kind of
+light, but in the presence of strangers, different conditions are
+required. We shall at first be obliged to use another kind of light. By
+the aid of this light you can plainly see the trumpet, supported
+horizontally in the air just over his chair, but you will be unable to
+discern even the faintest outline of the spiritual form holding it; as
+in using the trumpet, the vital force of both the manifesting spirit and
+the medium is concentrated in the trumpet in the effort of speaking. Sit
+perfectly quiet for a moment; I will close the windows and prepare the
+room."
+
+A few touches on the small keyboard in her desk, and lo the heavy double
+curtains swiftly and silently unrolled and covered the windows. At the
+same moment, the beautifully ornamented, dome shaped center of the lofty
+ceiling began to glow with a constellation of soft, phosphorescent
+lights, filling the room with a radiance as mild and silvery as
+moonlight, and yet even more soothing to the nerves. Presently the air
+was vibrant with the low, sweet strains of distant music, soft and slow
+and of such exquisite harmony that it seemed a rare combination of all
+that was inspiring, charming and beautiful in the variations of time,
+sound and rythm. The combined effect of the light and the music on
+Fillmore Flagg was electrical. Every nerve was thrilled with rapture.
+He was completely absorbed. As the music ceased he turned with a start
+to look for the trumpet. As he looked, it slowly rose from the chair and
+there came from it the clear tones of a manly voice, full of sweetness
+and power. He heard these words: "Fern, my daughter, will you tell this
+gentleman who I am?"
+
+"My dear father," said Fern, "How glad I am that you have joined us! Mr.
+Flagg, this is my father, Fennimore Fenwick, of whom I have told you so
+much. Father, this is Mr. Fillmore Flagg, who, as you already know, has
+promised to devote himself to our work."
+
+As the trumpet slowly moved nearer, Mr. Fenwick said: "Mr. Flagg, as the
+father of Fern Fenwick, I extend to you a cordial greeting and a most
+hearty welcome to Fairy Fern Cottage. I trust this is but the
+commencement of a long and uninterrupted acquaintance, which may soon
+ripen into a true friendship, that shall bring much pleasure and profit
+to both. I am exceedingly well pleased with your advanced ideas on the
+subject of co-operative farming as the proper cure for the evils that
+now make farm life so miserable and so unsatisfactory. I wish
+particularly to congratulate you on the thoroughly systematic and
+successful methods you have adopted to it yourself so well for this
+peculiar work.
+
+"Now my young friend, one moment to another matter which is likely to
+prove of great interest to you. I find your parents in spirit life. I
+met them since you came to the cottage. They approve of your chosen life
+work. They are very proud of you, their beloved son and only child. They
+bid me give you a message of love with the assurance that they will
+speak to you through this trumpet very soon."
+
+"Mr. Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "I thank you for the encouragement
+of your kindly greeting and for the many pleasant things you have said
+of me and my work. In the future I shall strive conscientiously to merit
+your praise, and hope to earn your lasting friendship. As to the glad
+tidings from my parents in spirit life, I am rejoiced. In my heart the
+torch of hope is lighted; its pure flame is fast burning away the
+barriers of the belief I have so long entertained, that 'Death ends
+all,' also of the equally depressing creed of my Presbyterian people,
+who have so long taught and thought that 'The dead know not anything;'
+that my parents, with that vast army of souls, having passed the portals
+of the tomb, are now lost in the oblivion of that long unconscious,
+dreamless slumber, which stretches from the new made grave to The Day of
+Judgment. Hence, the message of love from my parents, with the assurance
+that they will speak to me so soon, has made me very happy. I am content
+to wait patiently for such further messages as opportunity may bring to
+me. I am ready and eager, Mr. Fenwick, to hear your plans. Please
+proceed."
+
+"Very well," said Fennimore Fenwick. "Fern, my daughter, you are to
+remain at your desk with pencil and note book, prepared to take down
+what I have to say."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+THE ETHICS OF PLANETARY EVOLUTION.
+
+
+"In order to plan this work wisely, and to discuss it understandingly,
+it will be necessary at the beginning to go back to first principles, to
+try to discover the real object and purpose of human life on this
+planet. In searching along the pathway of countless ages in our planet's
+history, we discover a continuous upward movement in the progression of
+the manifestations of life; from the mineral to the vegetable; from the
+vegetable to the animal; from the animal to man. Man representing the
+apex of progress in the constantly ascending spiral of the evolution of
+life from the birth of the planet to the present time. Therefore, both
+spirit and mortal, we are all children of the planet, chained to its
+destiny, all alike working factors in the achievement of its purpose so
+mighty. Through the planet, its solar system, and the system of systems
+in a long line of an infinite series, far beyond the power of
+computation, we are also the children of the Great Oversoul, the Source
+and Center of all life!
+
+"Human life, then, is the flower and fruit of the planet--the highest
+combined expression of its life--each life a planetary seed, a
+concentrated possibility of all expressions of planet life. Perhaps the
+most convincing and beautiful illustration of the truth of this vital
+and all important proposition is, that the reproductive cells of man in
+his highest state of development, multiply by fission, or self-division
+into halves, as did the primal sperm of protoplasm at the very beginning
+of vegetable and animal life. This great philogenetic vine with its
+myriads of branching arms, reaches in an unbroken line from the lowest
+to the highest forms of life; all alike are fruit of this vine. This
+offers indisputable evidence of the common brotherhood of humanity! the
+motherhood of the planet! the fatherhood of the Great Oversoul!
+
+"From these premises we may safely conclude that the object and purpose
+of this planet is the evolution of human beings, their continued growth
+and development, until the state of perfection for the entire race is
+reached. With this comes the complete achievement of the purpose of the
+existence of the planet. Hence, we perceive that human life is the most
+precious production of the planet. Henceforth its energies are to flow
+towards the perfecting of the human race.
+
+"In the great, white light of a higher understanding of these basic and
+vital truths, let us strive to make conditions for the protection of ALL
+human life. The task becomes less difficult as we more readily
+comprehend and appreciate the magnitude of the thought, that through the
+planet, this sacred life is the immortal and enduring expression of the
+Eternal Spirit. Viewed in this light, we apprehend clearly that all
+acts, by society or individuals, which tend to protect, promote and
+purify this life, are good, right and holy, and in their doing, become
+the highest and best expression of a sacred religious duty. On the
+contrary, all acts of society or individuals, which tend to destroy,
+injure, poison or sully this sacred life, or to bar its ordained
+progress are, in themselves, unholy, wrong, criminal and cruel, and in
+commission, become the greatest and most unpardonable of all sins.
+
+"All this becomes more apparent, when we consider that the sum of the
+pleasant sensations of the individual, and the happifying emotions which
+flow from them, constitutes the sum of human happiness. All conditions
+of life which promote right living, ethical culture and moral growth,
+nourish and call forth emotions of truth and honesty, pure pleasure,
+adoration, worship, hope, affection, love and all the higher and nobler
+characteristics, build up life and increase its capacity for happiness.
+Through the action of an equally inexorable and unswerving law, the
+misery and crime which poverty breeds, with its bitterness of hate,
+grief and despair, and all the train of other evil emotions engendered
+thereby, are poisonous in their nature; they tear down and destroy life.
+Therefore that social and industrial system which affords most
+abundantly, and for all of the people, conditions that are
+life-promoting and poverty-banishing, is logically the nearest just and
+right, because it is the nearest in harmony with natural law, and the
+object and purpose of human life.
+
+"Society as a whole, like a chain with defective links, is no stronger
+socially, morally, industrially, or politically, than its weakest unit.
+Hence it becomes the self interest of every individual member to
+endeavor unselfishly to build up and strengthen the weaker units in
+every possible way.
+
+"These propositions furnish the only sound basis for a perfect system of
+political economy--a system which shall afford the greatest amount of
+good or happiness to all the people. In considering the clearness and
+startling significance of these truths, we discover the cruel, criminal
+wrong of any system of competition, based on the old barbaric law of the
+survival of the fittest, which in its application means the pleasure and
+happiness of the few at the expense of the toil, pain and misery of the
+many. In this connection we note that man, in his evolutionary progress,
+has reached a point where, being mentally and spiritually awakened to a
+knowledge of the higher purposes of life, he perceives the true effect
+of environmental conditions, with their good and evil tendencies. He
+also perceives the cause and the cure. Armed with the talisman of this
+knowledge, he boldly enters the field of causation and thenceforward
+becomes a self-directing factor in his own evolution. At this important
+stage, he clearly comprehends, that the injury of one is the concern of
+all; that the perfection of all becomes the highest interest of each;
+that the unprogressive law of the survival of the fittest, is nullified
+and replaced by the higher law of unselfishness of the individual for
+the advancement of the race; that the dual nature of man, physical and
+spiritual, must be considered as inseparable, when dealing with the
+practical questions of life; that physical life, as the primary school
+of existence, is ephemeral, while the spiritual is the permanent and
+enduring; that, consequently, the path of progress for the human soul,
+lies almost entirely in the realms of the spiritual; that a life on the
+physical plane, devoted solely to selfishness, dwarfs and chokes the
+spiritual nature, and becomes a serious bar to unfoldment and progress
+on the spiritual plane of existence: Finally, that, like the pent up
+energies of some mighty volcano, the irresistible upward thrust of
+nature's unfoldment, ever producing and disclosing higher expressions of
+life, is to find its present outlet through these channels, by the wise
+use of methods in harmony with the principles stated."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN SOCIAL EVOLUTION.
+
+
+"From the thorough understanding and appreciation of these principles,
+by the workers on your model co-operative farm, must come the necessary
+zeal, the cementing enthusiasm of a mighty purpose which, with ever
+increasing volume, shall urge them forward to the goal of complete
+success. As one of the means to insure this success, we must strive to
+introduce a new era for agriculture, in which co-operative working shall
+be supplemented and reinforced by co-operative thinking. As applied to
+farm work, this is a new and untried field which promises grand results.
+
+"In all kinds of productive labor, muscular effort is a mental
+demonstration! The keener the mentality controlling the muscles, the
+more satisfactory the work accomplished. The more interested and the
+healthier and happier the laborer is in his work, the easier it becomes
+for him to produce superior results. For centuries, farm work has been
+considered the natural avocation of the ignorant and the illiterate!
+Strange as it may appear, it seems to have been generally conceded that
+the typical clodhopper was the ordained farmer! That this perverted idea
+regarding the requirements of a tiller of the soil, should have
+maintained its existence for so many ages, is a matter of profound
+astonishment to every intelligent thinker!"
+
+"Pardon me, Mr. Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "if at this time I quote
+a case in point from my own state. As late as the year 1897, a Bishop
+Withington, of Nebraska, speaking of farmers' sons who were struggling
+for an education, says of them:
+
+"'The farmers' sons--a great many of them--who have absolutely no
+ability to rise, get a taste of education and follow it up. They will
+never amount to anything--that is, many of them--and they become
+dissatisfied to follow in the walk of life that God intended they
+should, and drift into cities. It is the over-education of those who are
+not qualified to receive it that fills our cities, while the farms lie
+idle.'
+
+"This, Mr. Fenwick, is but a sample of many like expressions from the
+lips of public men, showing the stigma and low estimate which is placed
+on farmers as a class, by clerical, professional and commercial people.
+When we consider that farming people form a large majority of the
+citizens of our republic, a republic whose constitution guarantees equal
+rights for all; whose chief corner stone from the beginning, has been
+its admirable system of free education in its public schools; the
+manifest endeavor of the Bishop and his class, to consign the tillers of
+the soil to a caste of low order, and to argue that education is for the
+few and not for the farmer, indicates something radically wrong in our
+social system that augurs ill for the future of our republic. That the
+dissatisfaction is widespread and serious, is manifest to all thinkers
+and observers. To discover the cause and cure, and to speedily apply the
+remedy for this growing discontent, becomes an imperative duty for all
+patriotic people. In my experience, the following are some of the most
+prolific causes:
+
+"The isolation and loneliness of the small farm.
+
+"The long hours of tedious, monotonous toil for both man and woman.
+
+"The constantly increasing competition of large farms, armed with
+capital and expensive machinery, which tends to reduce the price of farm
+products.
+
+"The want of proper society, healthful amusements, books, and many other
+necessary educational facilities.
+
+"The discouraging meagerness of the financial returns for a year of such
+constant toil.
+
+"These things all tend to destroy the farmer's love for, and pride in,
+his occupation, until farm work becomes a repulsive drudgery, and he
+flies to the city for a more congenial employment. Is it then, under the
+circumstances, any wonder that the farmers' sons should become
+dissatisfied with the occupation of their birth? That in company with
+their sisters and sweethearts they should be determined, at all hazards,
+to escape from the evils of what Bishop Withington terms a
+'God-ordained' class of hewers of wood, drawers of water, and tillers of
+the soil, a class which dooms them and their children to a future of
+hopeless toil?
+
+"Agriculture forms the basis and support of our national, industrial and
+commercial success. Therefore it is imperative that agricultural
+pursuits be made to become the most noble and pleasing of all
+occupations. How can this be accomplished?
+
+"Surely, co-operative farming, with its improved conditions and methods,
+is the remedy indicated!"
+
+"Yes, Mr. Flagg," said Fennimore Fenwick, "Co-operative farming is the
+partial remedy which shall start the healing process, and lead to the
+discovery of a perfect cure. You have ably stated the evils which make
+living on small farms so unsatisfactory. You have also made an excellent
+argument for our work from the text Bishop Withington has so blindly
+and unthinkingly furnished. It is quite evident that neither he nor his
+class, have the least conception of the true cause of the discontent
+they so deeply deplore. It is also equally clear that with all the
+advantages of superior conditions, with the observation and education of
+a lifetime, they have so far, utterly failed to understand or appreciate
+the real object and purpose of human life. They are sorely in need of an
+object lesson which we must furnish.
+
+"In efforts to slake a natural thirst for knowledge, the brightest
+minds, the most profound thinkers of the past ten centuries, at the end
+of lives devoted to study, have declared that the vast domain of
+knowledge still remained practically an unexplored field. This domain is
+for coming generations to conquer and possess. It invites the efforts of
+millions of co-operative thinkers, born and trained for the task. Hence,
+to me, it is as clear as the noonday sun that the embodiment of more
+mind by our agricultural people, is a matter of imperative necessity.
+They should have the leisure and the opportunity to become familiar with
+all the varied phenomena of nature, through the recorded observations
+that comprise the different sciences, which describe and explain all
+phases of surrounding life. Thus equipped, they will be able to discover
+that they are a living, working, part of nature, which defined, means
+the combined life of the planet; that they act upon all things about
+them and are in turn acted upon. A comprehension of these things can
+come only to the cultivated mind, and the richer its store of facts, the
+more perfect its grasp and control of surrounding conditions. Therefore
+mind, as the expression of the soul and body of the dual individual on
+the physical plane of existence, is EVERYTHING! It controls and molds
+structure; the body; the people around. All history is but a detailed
+description of the action of mind.
+
+"The great minds are the dominant thinkers; they sway the multitude,
+mold public opinion, effect legislation and shape the nation. These
+dominant minds should come from the people of the soil, as best equipped
+to discover and proclaim the law of the planet's unfoldment, also best
+able to conceive and formulate the wise laws which should guide and
+govern its people. Hence the necessity for our farmers to become
+thinkers--dominant thinkers.
+
+"What are the best conditions for mind unfoldment?
+
+"As Professor Elmer Gates so wisely says, 'The human body is composed of
+myriads of living organisms--a co-operative colony of more or less
+intelligent cells--which respond to the control of the individual Ego
+through the action of the mind, and to the electrical conditions which
+flow from the emotions.' Hence the body is an important part of the
+thinking machine and, therefore, a perfect mind must absolutely be the
+highest expression of a perfect body. The perfect body needs to be well
+born. To be well born, is to demand conditions for a perfect motherhood,
+and the perfect unfoldment of both mother and child together.
+
+"Where can these conditions be found?
+
+"We find them best and most abundant in the rural districts, far from
+the turmoil and strife, the smoke and poisonous gases of the great city.
+Surrounded by fields and forests, in the pure air of a broad expanse of
+country, domed with the blue sky, and flooded with golden sunlight, on
+the soil of the farm, close to the fostering bosom of our planet
+mother, Earth. Therefore it must be the distinctive and well defined
+purpose of our co-operative farm to furnish and perfect these
+conditions, thus uniting in perfect harmony stirpiculture with
+agriculture, a union as poetical as it is practical. From these
+conditions must come a race of dominant thinkers, the exponents and
+champions of the real objects and purposes of human life.
+
+"With the coming of such a race, comes the beginning of the era of
+unselfishness, and the end of the present era of selfishness, the age of
+gold worship, where greed for gold blights and withers public and
+private conscience, dominates and corrupts all forms of society, and
+makes conditions which breed monopolies, caste, tramps, paupers, armies
+of idle men, strikes, discontent, starvation and revolution!
+
+"Verily, a perfect catalogue of the ways and means by which 'Man's
+inhumanity to man, makes countless millions mourn!' With the dawn of the
+unselfish era, comes the demonstration of how man's humanity to man can
+and will make countless millions rejoice!
+
+"In selecting the people who are to be the active, working members of
+our co-operative farm, it is a matter of the utmost importance that they
+should be chosen from a class of persons who are capable of thinking in
+harmony on religious and political questions, who are already in
+sympathy with progressive ideas and co-operative work, intelligently
+alive to its importance and to its advantages, capable of understanding
+and appreciating that it is not the sole purpose of the organization to
+make money but also to accomplish a multitude of things besides:
+
+"First and foremost, to ennoble the occupation of their birthright.
+
+"To make farming the most charming and healthful and most desirable of
+all vocations.
+
+"To make it so remunerative that a reserve fund can be accumulated,
+sufficiently large to enable its members to purchase the necessary land
+for an ever increasing series of co-operative farms, for their children
+and their children's children for generations yet to come.
+
+"To unite stirpiculture so closely with agriculture that a race of
+perfect children shall be the crowning glory of all the productions of
+the farm.
+
+"To afford ideal conditions for motherhood and childhood, that all
+children may be proudly welcomed to a world of loving hearts; that they
+may be well born, wisely and beautifully unfolded mentally, morally,
+spiritually and physically; that they may be skillfully taught how to
+work, to think, to reason, and to comprehend and appreciate the true
+purposes of life, consequently their duties as true men and
+women--self-poised and noble, a law unto themselves--capable and fully
+prepared to enter the walks of life as worthy and honored citizens of an
+ideal republic.
+
+"That it is to be the province of the farm, by the co-operative thinking
+of its workers, to develop and increase the fertility and productiveness
+of the valleys and plains to such an extent that the hills and mountains
+may be reclothed with beautiful forests of choice trees, of varieties
+most valued for lumber and timber; also great orchards of the choicest
+varieties of fruit and nut bearing trees, as a source of future pleasure
+and profit, at the same time preparing the way for a more complete
+control of climatic conditions. By the process of shading and protecting
+the slopes of both hill and mountain by these valuable forests, a
+magical change for the better is effected. Everywhere a soft, spongy
+carpet of fallen leaves, ever increasing in thickness, is spread out,
+moistening and enriching the soil and conserving the waters of the
+increased rainfall. A thousand living springs of pure, sparkling water
+make glad the plains and valleys. The evils of flood, erosion and drouth
+are checked; the climate made more congenial; the value of both hill and
+mountain, as a source of wealth, increased a thousand fold.
+
+"Aided by the organization of our co-operative association, which makes
+it possible to treat large tracts of land as a single farm, this great
+work can be easily and surely accomplished by the earnest and united
+efforts of a people who, surrounded by conditions of comfort and plenty,
+are in a suitable mood to plant what their children and coming
+generations may enjoy.
+
+"As an evidence of man's awakening consciousness of his power, by means
+of intelligent co-operation, to make conditions that shall protect him
+and his loved ones from the many calamities which have hitherto beset
+and overwhelmed human lives, we note the extraordinary work accomplished
+by the different classes of insurance companies, during the past fifty
+years. These companies are in fact large bodies of people, incorporated
+and working co-operatively and systematically together to protect
+themselves. The success which has followed their efforts in this
+direction has, for the thinker, a marked significance, pregnant with
+suggestions for the future. In the co-operative farm, organized and
+carried forward on lines in harmony with the principles and purposes
+before stated, this system of insurance, in its simplest, least
+expensive and most practical form, is to be carried to its fullest
+extent into all the departments of life. By its wise provisions for the
+care and protection of the weaker units, it insures its members against
+loss of employment or wages; against sickness, injury or accident;
+against poverty, hunger and crime. It insures to all, for themselves and
+their children, the perpetual right to occupy and till the soil, and
+thus to secure by short hours of pleasant, attractive labor, the
+generous return which can be obtained only by the most perfect system of
+scientific, co-operative farming, armed with abundant capital. In
+addition, it insures to them all the advantages of birth, health,
+education, society and amusement which money can buy for the wealthy:
+more leisure, more opportunities for mental, social, ethical and
+scientific self-culture. It also insures to the world at large an object
+lesson which shall demonstrate that the way is open for the poorest farm
+laborer to secure the same results by joining these progressive
+co-operative bodies.
+
+"In looking forward to the effect upon society which these combined
+farms may have, we must consider the numbers and strength of the
+opposing force which, on every hand, will rise up as a bar to progress.
+For years, gold, that concentrated essence of selfishness, has been
+recognized by its worshipers as the crowned king of society, whose
+crimson banners have borne these suggestive mottoes: 'I am not my
+brother's keeper! His injuries concern me not!' 'Every man for himself!'
+'It is well and good and right that the happiness of the few should be
+secured at the expense of the misery of the many, for is it not written,
+"The poor ye have always."?'
+
+"Fortunately, the law of compensation limits and finally crushes the
+reign of selfishness, causing it to perish by its own efforts to live,
+which in time destroy the substance upon which it feeds. Hence we may
+look hopefully to the future. With prophetic eyes we may behold the
+victorious march of these farm units by companies, battalions,
+regiments, brigades and divisions, like a vast army of peace, silently
+spreading, absorbing and conquering the old selfish system, grandly
+demonstrating the solidarity of human life, and the irresistible force
+of the combined efforts of thousands of bravely unselfish souls, working
+and thinking in unison, filled with enthusiasm kindled and inspired by
+the magnitude and grandeur of the true purposes of life.
+
+"Having thus broadly outlined the scope of the work, with its underlying
+principles, we may now give attention to the details of the plan for the
+initial farm. In this I would advise that the enterprise be made to
+adapt itself, so far as possible, to the present commercial and
+industrial conditions. That it be an incorporated stock company,
+limited. That its corporate life be for the longest possible term of
+years, with the right to renew. That it shall secure and control at
+least five thousand acres of land, to more readily enable it to dominate
+the township, as the lowest political unit of the republic; and also to
+give room for the planting of suitable forests. That its capital stock
+be limited to one thousand shares, to be divided equally among five
+hundred co-operators, composed of two hundred and fifty couples or
+families. That at the end of five years the stock be issued to the
+subscribers as paid up stock, by cash from the sinking fund, paid in for
+that purpose. That the stock of a retiring member can be sold only to
+the treasury of the company, the same to be re-issued to the succeeding
+member. That in order to avoid friction with the outside commercial
+world, the stockholders collectively shall sell to themselves
+individually, at ruling market prices, whatever they may need, the
+profits to go as a contribution from all to the insurance fund for the
+aged. That the care of the sick and the injured, and the education of
+the children, be classed and paid as a legitimate expense of the farm.
+That the co-operators collectively, pay to themselves individually, a
+wage sufficiently generous to enable them to purchase what they may
+desire in the way of furniture, food and clothing; allowing for a
+liberal percentage to be devoted to the sinking fund, to pay for the
+farm, the stock, and also for the additional land that may be secured as
+future farms for the children. That all other details necessary for the
+successful carrying out of these plans, be left for a satisfactory
+solution, to the practical working and co-operative thinking of the
+members of the farm.
+
+"I wish you, Mr. Flagg, as soon as may be convenient, to make a tour of
+inspection for the purpose of selecting and purchasing ten of the most
+available sites for such farms that you can find. From the ten you shall
+choose the one best adapted to the conditions required for the initial
+farm.
+
+"After occupation, at the end of five years, these lands are to be sold
+to the co-operators, at the purchase price, which, in any event, must
+not exceed the sum of ten dollars per acre. Until the deeds are made to
+the co-operators, these lands are to be in your custody as sole agent
+and director.
+
+"In these matters my daughter, Fern, will aid you in every possible way.
+Many times you will find her advice valuable, therefore when needed,
+command it without hesitation. I have an abiding faith that her
+inspiration will benefit you in many ways in achieving success for the
+model farm; a matter in which I am greatly interested and to which, as
+both mortal and spirit, I have for a number of years given close
+attention and much earnest thought. I now leave the matter to you and to
+Fern for such thought and discussion as the occasion may demand. I shall
+be glad at any time to answer questions concerning any particular point.
+Good night, Mr. Flagg; Good night my daughter."
+
+As Fennimore Fenwick bade them good night, both Fillmore and Fern
+returned the salutation, and Fern rose from her chair, saying:
+
+"I think, Mr. Flagg, that until now I have never quite understood the
+broad principles of real unselfishness. In the light of my father's
+comprehensive statement of the true purpose of human life, they stand
+forth in bold relief, clear and strong. What a grand incentive they
+offer, to stir the zeal and enthusiasm of our co-operative workers! All
+life is affected by them and discloses new meanings. All life seems more
+precious, more sacred. Yet the task assigned to you, Mr. Flagg, is not
+an easy one: I foresee many difficulties, but you will overcome all of
+them. The plan is so thoroughly in harmony with right and justice, so
+fraught with happiness for the masses, that it must succeed! I trust
+that you feel encouraged to go forward hopefully with the work?"
+
+"Thanks to Fennimore Fenwick," replied Fillmore Flagg, "I am armed
+against all obstacles by a new philosophy of life. Its possibilities, as
+applied I to practical work, are beyond computation! His masterly
+statement of the true theory and purpose of human life, embodies the
+crystallized wisdom of centuries. I am profoundly impressed with it.
+Applied to my chosen life work, it demands my best thought, my entire
+devotion: to co-operative work as exemplified by our proposed model
+farm, it means unqualified success!
+
+"Pardon me, Miss Fenwick, you have been hard at work, writing rapidly
+for a long time. You need rest. Let us then postpone further discussion
+until tomorrow."
+
+"Yes, I think that will be best," replied Fern, "so good night, Mr.
+Flagg."
+
+"Good night, Miss Fenwick."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+FILLMORE AND FERN.
+
+
+For Fillmore Flagg, a never-to-be-forgotten week has passed since the
+interview with Fennimore Fenwick, noted in our previous chapter. He is
+still at Fairy Fern Cottage, busy with preparatory work for his coming
+tour. Momentous events, which have radically changed his life, have
+followed each other in quick succession. Hours have passed as moments
+fly, in absorbing interviews with his spirit father and mother. His
+store of questions in relation to their experiences in spirit life, have
+all been answered: these answers have in turn suggested many more, until
+now he is satisfied. For him, the two worlds have been united--the
+continuity of life beyond the grave has been established as a verity
+past contradiction. As conscious individuals and loving parents
+in the realms of spirit life, his father and mother are as real
+to him as mortals. With each succeeding interview this conviction
+has grown, until, fully conscious of their loving sympathy and
+support, he begins to comprehend the connection between life and
+immortality; the stupendous meaning of immortal life--of never-ending
+progression--overshadows and dominates all other thoughts. In profound
+reverence he repeats to himself:
+
+"How noble, how sacred, how wonderful is life! A few years, comparably
+brief as moments, on the mortal plane of existence, to be followed by an
+endless Eternity, spent in gleaning wisdom and happiness from the rich
+fields of infinite progression. By the measure of immortality, who shall
+attempt to describe or limit the destiny of a human soul? As the epitome
+of the planet, the universe, and the universal cosmos, it must follow
+that the human soul is the repository of infinite possibilities. This,
+then, is the spiritual heritage of all. Sin and suffering, selfishness
+and greed, crime and vice in the transitory stage of the mortal, might
+stain and retard his spiritual growth, but they could never destroy the
+glorious possibilities of the final unfoldment."
+
+This broad conception of the possibilities of human life, here and
+hereafter, came to Fillmore Flagg as a revelation of the most sacred and
+marvelous character: in the light of such a revelation, the hideousness
+of selfishness stood revealed like a grim and warning monster. Now he
+saw the path of duty plain before him. On the higher, broader plane of
+unselfishness, he must strive to develop new powers and new aspirations
+to aid him in making better conditions for a more perfect protection and
+unfoldment of human life. To satisfy his highest ideal, he must devote
+himself to this work. The inspiration of the two worlds was upon him!
+His love for Fern Fenwick, the personification of all that was noble
+and beautiful, urged him forward; intensified and developed his highest
+aspirations for good; permeated, glorified and dominated his entire
+being. Love and life!--the former, the mystery and the crowning glory of
+the latter.
+
+Hours of self communion, alone in his room, had for Fillmore Flagg a
+hitherto unknown charm. The crowding memories of the happiest and by far
+the the most important week of his life, with a tenacity like fever-born
+visions, passed through and occupied his mind again and yet again. The
+bright image of Fern Fenwick was the central figure of each event, her
+grace and beauty was its chief point of interest.
+
+At her unrivaled cottage home he had been the honored guest to whom she
+had paid her undivided attention. Thanks to her wonderful mediumship, he
+no longer felt himself an orphan--the gateway of death was also the
+gateway of life. His father and mother had been restored to him, joined
+again to his life--his heritage of immortality assured! The truth had
+been made plain to him that the people of the two worlds were joined by
+everlasting ties of love and sympathy into the one great flood of
+humanity, all human beings, all immortal spirits, incarnate, excarnate.
+
+Again, to Fern's mediumship he owed his acquaintance with Fennimore
+Fenwick, whom he had learned to know, to admire, to love and respect as
+the highest type of a wise, great and noble man. How fortunate he was in
+having so many opportunities for learning from such a great master! He
+prophesied then and there, that the gratitude of coming generations was
+to bear witness to the power, wisdom and eloquence of Fennimore
+Fenwick's teachings.
+
+How the memory of all these things swelled the tide of love for Fern
+Fenwick, in the heart of Fillmore Flagg. How bright and amiable, how
+gloriously beautiful she was. How kind and gracious she was to him, and
+what a delightful deference she paid to his opinions! Would he ever
+again experience another week so full of unalloyed happiness? He had but
+to close his eyes--a radiant vision of Fern Fenwick was before him,
+thrilling his heart with hope, urging him forward to the goal of duty.
+With a sigh he thought of the coming journey. For one blissful week, in
+the light of her angelic eyes, in the radiance of her loveliness, in the
+subtle charm of her magnetic presence, he had basked as in the sunshine
+of paradise: now the hour of parting was approaching, he must not allow
+himself to be despondent, that would be unmanly; he must hope, wait, and
+work. Surely his star of destiny augured well for his future. Doubt he
+could not; doubt he would not! Yes, he would banish all thought of
+parting. He would think of the work, of its demands, of how Fern had
+helped him to prepare for it. Oh how proud he was of the peerless girl
+that had grown so dear to him! As he recalled the many hours they had
+spent together in discussing the plans of Fennimore Fenwick; as applied
+to the several stages of development of the model farm, how he had
+admired and appreciated Fern's brilliant ideas, her pertinent
+suggestions, her wonderful power to foresee administrative difficulties
+and to provide most efficiently against them. How well these
+accomplishments attested the high order of her intellectual training;
+how perfectly they demonstrated the astuteness of her power of thought,
+when applied to practical subjects. With such mental and spiritual
+attributes, supplemented and intensified by the deep inspiration and the
+awe inspiring majesty of her mediumship, how immeasurably superior she
+appeared when compared with other women. What problem in life so knotty
+that she could not solve? With the aid of such a matchless woman, how
+could he fail in the work before him?
+
+Together Fern and Fillmore had examined many maps for the purpose of
+deciding on the particular states to be inspected during the coming
+tour. The great south-west seemed to offer the best field for choosing.
+The Indian lands, just coming into market, were not to be ignored. They
+were located in a climate that would promote the growth of a large
+variety of crops, therefore were especially desirable. Much time was
+spent by them in going over these important questions very carefully.
+Fennimore Fenwick, from time to time, had given his opinion on many
+doubtful points. Now everything was settled. Tomorrow Fillmore Flagg was
+to start for the rich lands of the great west and south-west, with
+careful instructions to keep Fern Fenwick informed, by frequent letters,
+of his progress and whereabouts. Whenever a particular plot of ground
+was selected, Fern was to send him a certified check for its purchase.
+This plan was to be followed until all of the desired plots had been
+secured. The preparatory work on the model farm was then to be
+commenced.
+
+On the eve of his departure, Fillmore Flagg in reviewing these
+arrangements, began to perceive that many days must pass before he could
+hope to see Fern Fenwick again. The intensity of his love for her urged
+an immediate declaration, that he might know his fate before commencing
+his long journey; on the other hand, prudence counselled a more patient
+waiting and wooing as the only safe and honorable course for him to
+pursue, as to declare his love at this time would be, under all the
+circumstances which had made him a guest at the cottage, taking an
+unfair advantage of the confidence and hospitality of his charming
+hostess, who had become so inexpressibly dear to him. Yes, he would take
+up the burden of his work, full of confidence in the wisdom and
+watchfulness of his guiding star. Hope whispered in his heart: "Fern's
+destiny is so closely interwoven with thine own, that no fear of the
+future need disturb thee; in peace and contentment await thou the
+fulfillment of thy brightest hopes."
+
+Meanwhile, in the heart of Fern Fenwick, the impression left by the
+events of the week, were marked and apparent even to herself. A change
+in her regard for Fillmore Flagg was manifest. He was so capable, so
+loyal to her, and to her interests; and withal so intensely in love with
+her, that in turn her admiration for him grew apace--in fact she did not
+attempt to hold it in check. She adored an honest frankness as much as
+she despised smooth deceit. She knew that Fillmore Flagg was the soul of
+honor and that she could trust him under all circumstances, else her
+father would not have chosen him to be her worthy and trusted assistant
+in the work. In manly beauty he was very near to her ideal; in nobleness
+of heart, intellectual development and training, he was her equal:
+therefore it was but natural for her to bestow glances of encouragement
+on a lover so attractive, so cultured, so unselfish and so ardent.
+Perhaps she had met her fate! However, before dismissing the subject,
+she decided at the first opportunity to call the attention of her father
+and mother to the matter and ask their advice, which would govern her
+course in the future. She felt that whatever the advice might be, in any
+event, it would not mar or blight her true happiness.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+SOLARIS FARM.
+
+
+One year from the time Fillmore Flagg left Fairy Fern Cottage on his
+trip to the west, we find him at "Solaris Farm," the title chosen for
+the model or experimental co-operative farm. The location was nearly
+midway, on one of the through lines of railway which connect St. Louis,
+the great central city of the Mississippi valley, with the gulf and
+inland cities of the mammoth state of Texas.
+
+The land was beautifully located, the soil was rich and easy to
+cultivate. The entire tract was well watered by a fine, clear, swift
+flowing stream. In extent, the farm comprised ten sections, laying
+compactly together, and making in all, 6,400 acres of choice land. Nine
+of the sections formed a perfect square, each of the four sides being
+three miles in length. The tenth section joined the west line of the
+south-west section in the square, which made the south line of the farm
+four miles in length. The railroad passed through the farm near the
+north line of the southern tier of sections, touching on the way an
+ideal site for the farm village. About four thousand acres of the land
+was broad, rolling prairie, combined with a large proportion of
+unusually rich river bottom, both well adapted to the growth of a great
+variety of crops. The remainder of the farm presented a rough, broken
+surface, with a soil not so rich, sometimes quite poor and gravelly, but
+being protected by a great bend in the river, was well covered by a
+valuable growth of timber. The surface of the roughest ground covered
+large deposits of lead, zinc, mica and several varieties of choice clay.
+Numerous bold bluffs contained fine quarries of excellent stone for
+building purposes, also for an abundant supply of lime and cement. A
+number of the ridges offered unlimited quantities of gravel and sand.
+Here and there several rich veins of a very good quality of bituminous
+coal cropped out.
+
+In making his preliminary examination, the quick eye of Fillmore Flagg
+soon discovered that this eighteen-hundred-acre tract, of what the
+owners considered their poorest lands, marred and disfigured by a tangle
+of undergrowth, a confusion of unsightly rocks, gullies and bluffs; was
+in reality a treasure, a vast store of choice material for coming needs.
+When the ten sections, including this broken tract, were offered for the
+lump sum of thirty two thousand dollars, Fillmore Flagg quickly closed
+the bargain. He was confident that at last, after many weeks of patient
+searching, a most desirable site for the initial farm had been secured,
+at the low average price of five dollars per acre. No wonder he was
+elated and proud of his achievement! The remaining lands of the township
+were sparsely settled by about fifty families, generally occupying large
+ranches.
+
+Acting on Fern Fenwick's advice, as soon as the site of the model farm
+was chosen, Fillmore Flagg prepared an advertisement for publication in
+three of the leading spiritual papers, setting forth the purposes of
+the organization, together with the requirements necessary for
+membership. The applications which soon followed were so numerous that
+at the end of the first three months he had been able to complete a very
+choice selection for the colony. Before the end of the next three
+months, he had placed them on the farm, prepared for active work.
+
+In the accomplishment of this remarkable feat in so short a time, he had
+the able assistance of his trusted friends, George and Gertrude Gerrish,
+who were, from the beginning, most thoroughly in sympathy with him and
+eager to join him in the work. Fillmore Flagg had known them from
+childhood and had learned to appreciate them as progressive people of
+the most pronounced type, who were honest, courageous, and gifted to a
+high degree with the power to win the love and confidence of all who
+knew them.
+
+George and Gertrude Gerrish were born and reared on Nebraska farms, near
+the home of Fillmore Flagg. George was thirty-five; Gertrude, younger by
+three years. They had been married fifteen years and were noted as a
+handsome couple, being large, tall, straight and finely formed, with
+strong, even temperaments. Their only son, Gilbert, was a delicate lad,
+in his fourteenth year, handsome, spirituelle and intellectual to a
+remarkable degree. He was a real genius, passionately fond of books, art
+and music; already an accomplished player on both the piano and violin.
+Yet withal, he was very reticent, sensitive and shy, on account of his
+small size and deformed body, the result of spinal trouble caused by a
+fall while an infant.
+
+The Gerrish family, for the eight years previous, had resided in St.
+Louis, where George and Gertrude were employed as teachers. When
+Fillmore Flagg made them a visit while on his way west from Newburgh, he
+was both surprised and delighted to find them spiritualists.
+
+They at once became interested in his mission, and his plans for the
+establishment of a model co-operative farm. At his urgent request, they
+promised to move at once to the farm, whenever located, in order to be
+prepared to receive the colonists properly as soon as they should
+commence to assemble. This promise Fillmore Flagg considered a most
+extraordinary piece of good fortune, and so it proved.
+
+As a result of this wisely planned co-operative work, at the end of the
+first six months, a carefully selected, most efficient colony, of five
+hundred adults and one hundred and fifty children, had been assembled
+and organized; the business of the incorporation completed; the stock
+all taken; the officers chosen and a general plan of the work prepared.
+
+George Gerrish was chosen as President of the Solaris Farm Company,
+Fillmore Flagg was made trustee and general manager. The members of the
+company were young and strong, accustomed to farm labor, full of
+enthusiasm for pushing forward the work. They were all wide awake and
+progressive, quick to perceive and appreciate the importance and
+advantage of applying co-operative thought and co-operative work to
+systematic farming on a large scale. They were thoroughly in earnest and
+equally determined to make the model farm a complete success. With such
+an army of vigorous, intelligent workers, it was easy to accomplish
+before the close of the first year, the magical changes which had been
+effected at the farm.
+
+The land had all been surveyed, examined and tested; the farm carefully
+subdivided and platted, with a view to keeping a complete record, which
+should include a debit and credit account with each subdivision. The
+size and boundaries of these tracts were determined with reference to
+the capacity of the soil to best produce certain kinds or crops of
+grains, grasses, vegetables, vines, berries, fruits or trees. The crests
+of ridges, and all rough, gravelly lands, were set apart for timber,
+fruit and vineyard culture; the separate areas to be devoted to these
+three classes were carefully calculated, described and marked on the
+plat. The number of roads required to connect the various fields and
+subdivisions with the village, were laid out and made passable by
+building the necessary bridges.
+
+The site selected for the village was quite near to the railroad, and
+large enough to give abundant space for future factories, shops, lawns
+and ornamental pleasure grounds. The whole was graded, well drained and
+artistically laid out around the four sides of a spacious central
+square. A large, well constructed freight and passenger station, of
+Solaris brick, was built and established at the most convenient point on
+the railroad. In this building were the post office, express office and
+telegraph office, all in excellent business form and perfect working
+order.
+
+The manufacture of brick had been one of the first industries developed
+at the farm. An inexhaustable supply of most excellent clay had been
+discovered just at the edge of the village site, and speedily connected
+with it by a short tramway. From this clay the product of Solaris brick
+proved in every way desirable. In form, color, size and design, they
+were much superior to ordinary brick. With them, the builder could, in
+one half the time, with less cement, construct walls that were thick,
+solid and durable, yet presenting beautiful surfaces both inside and
+outside. These walls would remain for many years in perfect sanitary
+condition, kept free from dampness by the dry air circulation, due to
+the constructive design of the brick. The very fine appearance of the
+new railroad station, so advertised the beauty and excellence of Solaris
+brick, that orders from abroad soon came pouring in. To fill these
+orders without delaying the work on the village buildings, it became
+necessary to double the size of the brick-making plant; also to increase
+the number of workers. The unexpected development of such a large and
+profitable allied industry, at almost the first stage of the preparatory
+work at the farm, so encouraged Fillmore Flagg and his co-workers, so
+stimulated and quickened the spirit of inventive genius, that thereafter
+the efficiency and capacity of the machinery kept pace with the steadily
+increasing demand for brick, that too without further adding to the
+working force or to the size of the plant.
+
+A deeper excavation of the clay beds brought to light a much finer class
+of clays, which proved so excellent for the purposes of manufacturing
+general pottery, terra cotta ware, drain tiles and sewer pipe, that in
+connection with the brick works, a factory for making that kind of
+material was at once put in operation. The tramway was extended a half
+mile further from the village to reach the newly-opened stone quarries
+and coal mines, passing on the way large deposits of sand and gravel. By
+means of the tramway, an abundant supply of all kinds of the necessary
+materials could be placed on the building site very quickly. The best of
+stone for the foundations, quantities of brick, lime, sand and cement
+were at hand, waiting for the builder. All this made possible the swift
+construction of superior buildings, equipped with all of the modern
+improvements, including artistic ornamentation.
+
+As a result, before the expiration of the first six months after the
+arrival of the co-operators, the following buildings had been completed
+and were ready for use: On the south side of the public square, fronting
+north; one large mill for grinding flour and feed; one extensive
+building, large enough to be occupied as a saw mill and planing mill,
+machine, carpenter, repair and blacksmith shop all combined. On the
+north side of the square, fronting south; one large three story and
+basement block of apartment houses, sufficiently capacious to
+accommodate eight hundred people. The three upper stories were high
+enough to afford twelve-foot ceilings between the floors. The rooms were
+large, well lighted, well ventilated, and so arranged on each floor as
+to offer to every family a parlor, sitting room, dining room, two bed
+rooms, one bath room, and a kitchen. The basement of the entire block
+was furnished and fitted to be used as a restaurant, with the necessary
+dining rooms, kitchens, furnace rooms, store rooms and cellars. The
+light frame dwellings, located on one of the rear streets, which had
+given a temporary shelter to the people until the completion of the
+apartment house, were now utilized as work rooms, seed rooms, assorting
+rooms, store rooms, and for dairy and apiary purposes. On the west side
+of the square, fronting east, just across the corner from the apartment
+house, the well-appointed hall of Education and Amusement was erected.
+It was three stories high, seventy five feet wide, and one hundred and
+fifty feet long. The upper story was entirely devoted to the library,
+assembly and amusement hall, with its large stage, numerous offices and
+ante rooms. The lower rooms were arranged to be used for the business
+offices of the farm, the spacious school rooms for its one hundred and
+fifty children, the printing office and editorial rooms of the press
+club, and the eleven additional club rooms reserved for the use of the
+adults. On the same side of the square, fronting eastward and separated
+from the hall of amusement and education by one hundred feet of space,
+was the Solaris company store; four stories high, two hundred feet wide,
+two hundred feet long, built around three sides of a beautifully
+arranged rose and flower garden. The two lower stories were used to
+display a large stock of general merchandise, while the upper stories
+were occupied by the force engaged in the manufacture of general
+clothing, underwear, and in tailoring and dress making. All of these
+fine structures were built of Solaris brick, with cut stone foundations;
+the ornamental brick used in the fronts were especially designed for the
+purpose and proved wonderfully effective. In every particular the
+buildings were a credit to the company, being beautifully planned,
+skillfully constructed, and located with due regard for architectural
+effect. From the preparation of the stone, the making of the brick, lime
+and mortar, to the final completion of the buildings, including the
+making and laying of the sewer pipes, nineteen-twentieths of the total
+cost was represented by the labor of the co-operators. Of course they
+were led and taught by a few skilled workmen, directed by Fillmore
+Flagg, who had prepared the plans. The remarkable success achieved,
+proved a good lesson in the economics of co-operation, of the utmost
+significance and value; a lesson which filled the hearts of the members
+of the company with pride and joy, riveted and clinched their devotion
+to the model farm and opened their eyes to the possibilities of the
+future.
+
+Having finished this first series of buildings for immediate use,
+attention was given to the matter of improving the appearance of the
+public square. In the center of the broad, smooth green, stood the tall,
+straight flag-pole; from its top floated the stars and stripes. Eastward
+from the foot of the flag-staff, and slightly raised above the grassy
+surface of the smoothly shaven lawn, was spread a living flag in true
+colors, red, white and blue. This flag was of magnificent proportions,
+twenty-five feet in width by fifty feet in length, and presented such an
+effective appearance that it soon became the pride and delight of the
+farm children, an object of never failing interest, a beautiful living
+motto which expressed their appreciation of patriotism.
+
+While the building operations were being pushed forward, a carefully
+selected force of workers had been equally busy in making numerous
+agricultural improvements. Two thousand acres of virgin soil had been
+broken up and prepared for planting. One hundred acres of the best of
+this newly upturned soil, so clean and free from weeds, had been planted
+with a well selected series of vegetables, capable of producing a
+remunerative crop of assorted garden seeds. The series included all of
+the best known varieties with the addition of several new ones. As a
+result of skillful culture and favorable conditions, a great many tons
+of choice seeds had been grown, gathered and prepared for market. Large
+propagating gardens had been fitted and seeded with reference to the
+future demands of fruit and forestry culture. An abundant supply of all
+kinds of vegetables for farm use had been grown and stored. Goodly crops
+of corn, oats and potatoes, grown and harvested. Plenty of hay cut,
+cured and housed. Pastures, roomy enough to accommodate large herds of
+horses and cattle, securely enclosed, supplied with water and the proper
+shelter. Small herds of fine cattle and horses secured and well provided
+for. These herds were selected chiefly for breeding purposes, while a
+sufficient number of mules were purchased for the needs of the farm
+work. The bees in the well stocked apiary had already gathered a fine
+supply of honey from the wild flowers of the surrounding prairies. The
+extensive yards and buildings prepared for poultry farming on an
+unusually large scale, were so well stocked and in such fine condition
+as to promise large profits at an early day.
+
+In reviewing the work at the close of the first year, which included
+many important items not yet enumerated, the general results were so
+satisfactory that the officers and members of the Solaris Farm Company
+were very much encouraged. Owing to sales of seeds and brick in such
+considerable quantities, together with the manufacture at the farm of
+almost every kind of building material, the sum advanced by Fern
+Fenwick, the patroness, for farm buildings and equipment was less than
+one-half the amount named in Fillmore Flagg's estimate. The amount
+required for the coming year would be very much less.
+
+The general plan provided for and embraced the supplementing of
+agricultural work by a series of allied manufactures, such as naturally
+grew out of the needs of the farm: carpentering, blacksmithing, machine
+work and repairing, furniture making, turning, polishing, painting,
+staining and general wood working and finishing, pattern making, broom
+and brush making, a factory for spinning rope and cordage, basket and
+all kinds of osier weaving, brick making, pottery and all kinds of clay
+or porcelain work; together with many other things that would suggest
+themselves as time passed and the capacity of the farm was increased by
+the invention of better machinery and superior methods.
+
+The application of inventive genius on the part of the co-operators to
+operations at the brick works and pottery, had already proved equal to
+the demands of any emergency which might arise. The great variety of
+these added employments would afford a pleasant change from the monotony
+and routine of ordinary farm work. They could be pursued sometimes for
+weeks together, when legitimate farm work would be out of season, in
+this way so greatly increasing the products and profits of the farm,
+that the bonanza farm of the capitalist, which depended on wheat growing
+alone for profits, could no longer successfully compete.
+
+After much discussion by the board of management and the officers of the
+company, it was decided with the unanimous consent of the membership,
+that eight hours should be considered a day's work--six hours for the
+farm work, with two hours additional to be devoted to such of the
+manufacturing works as the member might choose. This course proved
+entirely satisfactory; it soon gave to the farm an able corps of skilled
+workmen, at the same time augmenting the collective power of the
+membership to do more effective co-operative thinking for the
+advancement of the best interests and general welfare of all.
+
+In the matter of wages, a uniform price of three dollars per day was
+fixed for each member of the company; this amount was diminished by
+deducting ten per cent for the sinking fund, five per cent for the
+general service fund, and five cents daily from each member for the
+special fund. The special fund was for the purposes of education and
+amusement. After subtracting these deductions, two dollars and fifty
+cents were left as the net per diem pay of each one. The assessments
+provided the goodly sum of $54,000 00 annually for the sinking fund,
+$27,000 00 for the general service fund, and $9,000 00 for the special
+fund.
+
+The Solaris Farm company was incorporated for ninety-nine years, with a
+provision for re-incorporation at the expiration of that period. This
+provision practically made the company a perpetual institution. The
+stock of the company was capitalized at $250,000 00, and divided into
+one thousand shares, with a par value of $250 00 each. The number of
+share holders or subscribers was limited to five hundred adults, about
+two hundred and fifty couples or families; at the end of five years, two
+shares of stock were issued to each subscriber, male or female, married
+or single. This stock, however, could not be issued until $45,000 00 had
+been paid into the sinking fund. With the issue of the stock, the
+purchase price of the farm should be paid from the sinking fund to
+Fillmore Flagg, the trustee, who would then deed the farm to the
+corporation. Thereafter the company was to maintain a sinking fund amply
+sufficient to provide such additional farms as the children of its
+members might need.
+
+In accordance with his instructions from Fennimore Fenwick, the money
+received in this way by Fillmore Flagg, was to be held by him as a
+trust for the purchase of other farms. It was further provided that the
+Solaris Farm company retained the sole right to purchase all stock which
+might be offered for sale.
+
+The general service fund was to be used in defraying the expense of
+stocking, equipping and improving the farm.
+
+It was also determined that settlements made with members, who from any
+cause might wish to leave the company, should be made on a basis of two
+dollars and fifty cents per day for the time they had been co-operators,
+with the return of whatever capital they might have invested plus
+interest at three per cent per annum; all stock subscribed for to return
+to the company's treasury.
+
+The general plan further provided for the erection of separate cottages,
+with small gardens adjoining, for the use and occupancy of such families
+as might desire them. The apartment house, now completed, had many of
+its suites of rooms arranged for independent housekeeping, but so far,
+the members of the company preferred to take their meals at the company
+restaurant, paying for them the ordinary prices. They also preferred to
+patronize the laundry, general clothing, tailoring and dress-making
+departments which were connected with the company store. To prevent any
+conflict with the commercial interests of the outside world, the
+restaurant and the company store sold food and goods at the ruling
+market prices for first-class articles, realizing that it was plainly
+the policy of the company to keep only the best of everything for
+sale--the generous profits from all sales to go as a general
+contribution from the entire membership to the insurance fund for the
+helpless and the aged. As liberal wages afforded ample means, large
+purchases were encouraged, and all tendency toward a miserly hoarding
+was discouraged. It was marked that all the members were quick to
+appreciate the fact that the more liberal their purchases, the more
+generously they swelled the fund that was set apart to provide for the
+needs and happiness of declining years. With each passing month it was
+observed that this particular feature of insurance continued to grow in
+popular favor.
+
+To enable the company to dispense with a great deal of expensive
+bookkeeping, to do business with a small amount of actual cash, and at
+the same time add another check against the disposition to hoard money;
+the payment of wages to the members of the company was made in Solaris
+scrip, good at its face value for all purchases made from the company.
+Whenever cash was needed by any of the members, an order on the
+treasurer drawn by the president and approved by the general manager,
+could easily be obtained for reasonable amounts. On presentation of the
+order, U. S. legal tenders to the amount specified, would be exchanged
+for the scrip, dollar for dollar; the treasurer cancelling this scrip by
+stamping across its face the date of the exchange and the name of the
+member, retaining the cancelled scrip as his voucher for the
+disbursement of the money. When scrip was exchanged at the store for
+goods, it was cancelled in the same way by the manager of the store. The
+plan seemed to work without friction and gave general satisfaction.
+
+At the beginning of each month an executive committee, composed of three
+men and three women, was chosen by the members of the company. This
+committee, with the general manager as chairman, made an order of work
+for each day and assigned the members to the different kinds of work
+named in the order. These assignments were always accepted cheerfully.
+The co-operators without exception and without murmur worked steadily
+and with zeal for one common result. They were keenly alive to both the
+importance and the advantages of this new kind of co-operative work,
+which gave them so many hours of leisure for rest and recreation. With
+the experience of each passing month, they realized more than ever
+before that sixteen hours out of the twenty-four so devoted, soon
+stimulated and reinforced the vital energies to such an extent that
+active labor seemed really desirable. As a matter of fact, each day they
+began to look forward eagerly to the six hours of farm work and the two
+hours additional of skilled labor, as opportunities which gave them
+refreshing and delightful exercise. Exercise that was necessary to
+promote health and happiness--exercise which left them with an added
+relish and brighter mental conditions for the enjoyment of the hours of
+study and amusement that were to follow. Here again, the wisdom of
+nature's law of compensation was demonstrated. A grave question of the
+utmost importance to the progress of mankind was for them forever
+settled. The discovery had dawned on the minds of these people that
+labor, no longer a curse, was in reality nature's richest blessing!
+
+Among the more important improvements on the farm which Fillmore Flagg
+had carefully planned, was the necessary preparatory work on the large
+propagating gardens, located near the river, not far from the village.
+In connection with the construction of the village water works, at the
+time of the grading and sewering of the village grounds, these gardens
+were furnished with a complete system of irrigating pipes. These,
+together with the thousands of pots required at a later period, were
+made in the pottery at the brick works--another product of farm labor.
+With such a complete control of the necessary moisture, the sprouting
+process in the long seed beds proved unusually successful. These beds,
+which covered several acres of very rich soil, were thickly planted with
+all kinds of fruit and tree-bearing seeds; together with grape cuttings,
+mulberries for the silkworm culture, quinces, currants, tea plants, a
+great variety of berries, a fine selection of ornamental shrubbery,
+dwarf fruit trees, roses, and many other plants besides. The young
+plants soon reached a stage of growth where potting became necessary in
+order to make them strong, well grown, independent young shoots, ready
+at any time to be transplanted without injury into nursery rows, the
+vineyard or the berry plots.
+
+To pot the contents of these beds required the labor of many hands,
+consequently the task furnished a pleasant, congenial employment for a
+major part of the female co-operators. A large, well floored, wide
+roofed shed was constructed just at the edge of the gardens nearest the
+village. It was wide enough to accommodate two rows of roomy tables, and
+of a length sufficient for fifty tables in each row. Adjoining the end
+of the potting shed towards the village, was the storehouse, containing
+quantities of prepared soil and a large supply of assorted pots. A
+double track system of narrow tramways passed between the rows of
+tables, on its way from the storehouse to the different seed beds in all
+parts of the garden. On this tramway the little cars came from the
+storehouse to the tables, laden with supplies of pots and prepared
+soil; these they exchanged for trays of potted plants to be returned to
+the seed beds. In returning from the gardens on the other track, they
+brought cargoes of shallow trays filled with little plantlets just
+lifted from the seed beds. This cargo-bearing process, on the part of
+the tram cars, continued throughout the day as often as required, making
+light work for all concerned. To witness the work under the shed as it
+goes bravely on is a pleasing sight. Let us pause a moment to enjoy it.
+
+At each table are two operators, who may sit or stand while they work.
+Protected by strong gloves, the deft fingers swiftly fly--the long,
+double lines of maidens and matrons are as merry as crickets! The buzz
+of musical chatter, song and story, inspires the work, fitting time with
+swift pinions and transforming such toil into six hours of fun and
+frolic!
+
+This class of work proved so charming that a majority of the women
+preferred it to employment in the apiary, dairy, nursery, school,
+office, restaurant, or any department of the company store.
+
+With this glimpse of the general development of Solaris Farm, its
+improvements and its people, during the first year, we discover that
+Fillmore Flagg has been a very busy man; that his skill, inventive
+genius, and executive ability have been tried severely; that he has been
+able to respond to the demands of every occasion. However, such was his
+confidence in the wisdom of Fern Fenwick, that when he found himself
+puzzled or in doubt, he relied largely on her advice to suggest some
+proper solution for each vexing question. He had, from the beginning,
+furnished her with a complete history of every stage of the development
+of the farm, along with his weekly reports. At the close of each one he
+gave a list of topics on which her opinions were solicited; the
+suggestions in her replies led to such a speedy unraveling of the
+tangled situations and troublesome questions, that Fillmore Flagg was
+impressed more than ever, with her excellent judgment and the brilliancy
+of her genius. His admiration grew; his love grew faster! In his
+personal letters, transmitting the weekly reports, the expression of
+these sentiments of admiration and adoration continued to grow in force
+and fervor until he finally gained courage to request permission to
+address her as a lover: a lover whose happiness would be largely
+increased by every effort he might make to put in words the thoughts
+born of his devotion to her--the one adorable woman in the world, for
+him.
+
+In her reply, Fern Fenwick frankly stated that she was inclined to
+consider his request with some degree of favor. That she had sought
+advice from her parents. That in response her father, Fennimore Fenwick,
+had expressed himself as convinced of the integrity, honesty, and purity
+of Fillmore's love for her; but he could not consent to an engagement
+binding his daughter to marriage, until the unqualified success of the
+model farm, at the end of the first five years, had demonstrated the
+worthiness of Fillmore Flagg. After that event, if both continued to
+desire a marriage engagement, his consent might be considered as
+assured. Her mother, she said, had repeated and emphasized her father's
+advice: this advice she felt in duty bound to heed and respect.
+Therefore, on the conditions named, she was willing to accept him as a
+lover, with the distinct understanding however, that he must not claim
+her hand in marriage until after the achievement of the complete
+success of Solaris Farm.
+
+In the postscript at the close of her letter, Fern adroitly, though
+perhaps innocently, lighted the torch of hope in the heart of Fillmore
+Flagg by archly expressing herself as follows: "Henceforth my personal
+interest in the progress and final success of the model farm will, no
+doubt, fully equal your own."
+
+This little postscript was a never failing source of comfort and
+encouragement to Fillmore Flagg. He read it and re-read it again and
+again: in his ecstacy he caught himself kissing it a dozen times the
+first week after it reached him. With each reading his hitherto dormant
+love nature gathered force and intensity. In the throbbing tide of
+joyful emotions, he was suffused with a strange new happiness. He
+blushed like a girl as the certainty came home to his heart that at last
+his love for this beautiful woman was returned. It may be marked as
+noteworthy that this important letter came to Fillmore Flagg just eight
+months after his parting with Fern Fenwick at her cottage home on the
+Hudson. While meditating and luxuriating under the spell of the happy
+significance of this event, as affecting his future life, he thanked his
+angel friends for so successfully speeding his wooing. With this
+assurance he was confident that at last his star of destiny was dominant
+in the sky of love. Calmly serene, he could now await the approach of
+whatever trials in life the future might have in store for him. Nothing
+could shake him from this fortress of love! Nothing could intervene to
+separate his life from the life of his beloved Fern! With a sigh of
+contentment, he prepared to devote himself more ambitiously and more
+industriously than ever before, to the development of Solaris Farm. He
+wooed every inventive thought; he planned night and day to overcome all
+obstacles that presented themselves. In his letters to Fern Fenwick,
+rejoicing in a freedom to express himself without restraint on the
+limitless theme of his great love for her, he filled page after page
+with eloquent adoration of his heart's chosen one--his highest ideal of
+the glorious perfection of womanhood. The effect on Fillmore Flagg of
+this fervent, all-absorbing love, was most excellent; it broadened and
+purified his life, eliminating from it all the dross of selfishness. He
+took a new interest in the lives of every married couple and every pair
+of lovers on the farm. By persevering effort, tact and skill, he
+completely won their confidence. He shared their hopes, plans, joys,
+sorrows, loves and crosses. In all this he never once failed to increase
+their love for him and their devotion to the farm.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+CLUB LIFE AT SOLARIS.
+
+
+In the work of building up in the minds of the co-operators, an abiding
+faith in Solaris Farm and its future success, Fillmore Flagg had the
+able support of George and Gertrude Gerrish. They had proved themselves
+the right people in the right place! In the schools and nursery Gertrude
+had become invaluable. Her genial temperament, her fondness for
+children, the kindly influence of her great mother-heart, with its never
+failing store of sympathy, patience, tact and skill, all attested that
+she was a natural teacher whose presence among the children was a
+perpetual benefaction, while the wonderful store of her personal
+magnetism brought her the love, respect and obedience of both the old
+and the young. They instinctively felt her power to make them wiser,
+better and happier. This was a well merited tribute of praise, worth a
+king's ransom in gold!
+
+George Gerrish soon became very popular on account of the extraordinary
+ability he displayed in organizing the members of the farm company into
+the numerous clubs devised to promote the interests of education,
+science and amusement. The description which follows will serve to
+illustrate his skill as an organizer in carrying out the general plan
+prepared by Fillmore Flagg. In addition they will give a clear idea of
+the scope and variety of the talent developed, together with a proper
+conception of the splendid equipment of the farm for the social,
+educational, ethical and scientific development of its people.
+
+First in order came the Press Club. To it was assigned the duty of
+editing and publishing the "SOLARIS SENTINEL," a weekly paper devoted to
+the interests of the farm. It was filled with topics of general interest
+to the community; themes, essays, poems, personals and social notices
+contributed by the club members, suggestions and ideas leading to better
+methods for the care and culture of the farm stock and crops, also as to
+preparing, the same for market. The range of topics included hints
+regarding any of the allied manufacturing industries which were carried
+forward by the farm company. In addition the paper gave full weekly
+reports from the officers of the different clubs. The literary budget
+for each week was completed by selections from the general contribution
+box, a very large one, which was fastened to the outer door of the rooms
+of the club. Into this box every man, woman and child was invited to
+drop such written scraps, signed or unsigned, brief or lengthy, as they
+might be moved to offer for publication. The selections from this box
+were eagerly read. They often proved surprisingly brilliant, novel or
+suggestive, frequently disclosing rare literary merit,--altogether
+constituting the most popular department of the paper. The editorials
+were carefully prepared and well written. They were usually along lines
+of co-operative work; its desirability as an encouragement to
+unselfishness, and also to show how the work might best improve social,
+industrial and political conditions. The volume and excellence of the
+reading matter thus produced, was marked by general comment as a matter
+of astonishment. The unstinted praise which it elicited reflected much
+credit on the club: therefore to be chosen a member was a coveted honor
+which was reserved for the meritorious few.
+
+The Dancing Club, in point of popularity, was the most successful of
+all, and deservedly so. Its membership embraced the entire colony, both
+old and young who, one and all, seemed to enter into the spirit of the
+movement with a zealous abandon, a united joyousness, most delightful to
+behold. The social ties which bound them together, grew and strengthened
+with the recurrence of each meeting. On two afternoons of each week, the
+club teachers gave two-hour lessons or drills to all who might desire
+them. On three evenings of each week, in the large hall of education and
+amusement, two and one-half hours were devoted to dancing, in which all
+the members took part. These evening dances proved so fascinating that
+as a rule very few members were ever noted as being absent. An attack of
+illness which prevented the attendance of a member, must be desperate
+indeed. In the matter of general improvement the results were most
+excellent. To bestow perfect deportment, dignified control of the body
+and limbs, with an easy, graceful movement on all occasions, there is
+nothing like dancing. To eliminate the depressing effects of grief,
+mental or business cares, harassing trials of temper, physical
+exhaustion, or disturbed spiritual equilibrium, dancing is a remedy of
+marvelous potency. For the key to the reason why this is true, we are
+indebted to the wonderful discoveries in psychology and psychurgy made
+by that able scientist, renowned thinker and brilliant writer, Professor
+Elmer Gates. The following is a very brief statement of his reasons as
+to how and why the emotions of the individual affect the vital forces of
+life:
+
+
+     "The human body is a collection of co-operative cells, more or less
+     intelligent and responsive, therefore an important part of the
+     thinking machine which is acted upon by the superior mind of the
+     brain. The superior mind is in turn reacted upon by the automatic
+     metabolism set up in the cells. Automatic metabolism of the cell,
+     is its ability to carry on within itself the various processes of
+     life that may be necessary to best fit it for the performance of
+     special functions, as a particular part of the co-operative body.
+     Violent emotions of anger, hate, despair and grief, are katabolic,
+     poisonous and harmful; they tear down and destroy life. The
+     poisonous deposits left in the cells by these emotions are called
+     'katastates.' Laughter and merriment, with all the emotions of
+     pleasure, adoration, worship, love, affection, hope, beauty, etc.,
+     are 'anabolic,' or life-preserving. The vital, health-giving
+     deposits left in the cells by these emotions are called
+     'anastates.' Nature accomplishes her perfect work by beautiful
+     methods. The cells are fed and sustained by the circulation of the
+     blood; they are reached from the smaller branching arteries by a
+     network of minute, thread-like channels, sometimes called
+     'arterioles.' These arterioles are accompanied by the equally fine
+     wires of the nervous system, closely connected with the brain
+     centers. These wires are electrified by the emotions; they expand
+     the arterioles, and the cells are flooded with an unusual supply of
+     blood; thus they are correspondingly vitalized or poisoned,
+     according to the kind of the dominant emotion, its duration and its
+     intensity."
+
+
+From the foregoing we readily perceive that the joyful emotions stirred
+by that poetical trinity, the melody, the rythm and motion of dancing,
+arouses the circulation so potently that every cell in the body tingles
+with its superabundance of vitality; both the heart and the brain
+respond to the invigorating tide, while its precious freight of
+anastates is vivifying and thrilling every cell. These happifying
+emotions soon become permanently dominant, the depressing emotions grow
+weaker, fade away and disappear. The individual is vitalized and
+rejuvenated! We begin to understand that when properly indulged in,
+dancing is the most fascinating, healthful and helpful of all the
+amusements. The Solaris Farm people were both fascinated and benefited
+by the dancing exercises so generously provided by the club; the growing
+interest and enthusiasm aroused was a matter of astonishment even to
+themselves. With the continuation of the club dances, the intensity of
+the enjoyment and the capacity for it, seemed to increase; this,
+together with the pleasing memories of bygone dances, seemed to bind
+them yet more closely to the destinies of Solaris Farm. Strong,
+straight, lithe figures, happy faces, and eyes shining with the fires
+of perfect health, gave testimony to the efficacy of music and motion as
+applied to physical development. With grateful hearts, these happy
+people realized that this pure font of happiness came to them as the
+result of unselfish, harmonious co-operation.
+
+The effect on Gilbert Gerrish of this universal spirit of gaiety, was as
+marked as it was beneficial. On the raised platform at the head of the
+dancing hall, violin in hand, and surrounded by a chosen few of his
+friends in the musical club, he seemed to grow in stature as he breathed
+in the pervading merriment; living a new life, in which his deformity no
+longer marred his pleasure. Through the association of many months he
+had grown accustomed to the personal magnetism of the farm people. They
+were very proud of him and of his many brilliant accomplishments. This
+all-pervading sentiment of loving pride came to him as a benediction,
+which his refined, sensitive nature graciously absorbed. His shyness and
+reticence disappeared; his face glowed with the flush of happiness; his
+beautiful eyes shone with the fires of a new inspiration. With the hand
+of a master he swept the strings with a bow of magic; new strains of
+sweet, thrilling music stirred the dancers and moved them as one mass to
+the throbbing rythm of the intoxicating melody: a melody so charming
+that none could resist. Filled with the power of a new grace and dignity
+at such moments, Gilbert Gerrish felt a keen triumph in his ability to
+stir the emotional natures of these people whom he loved; to inspire
+them to better deeds and to nobler lives. They, in turn, recognized and
+paid willing homage to a noble soul, a great genius, whose power to sway
+and control them was not in the least deflected or dimmed by a thought
+of his deformed body. Under the mystic spell of divine music, which
+appeals to the highest aspirations of the human heart; which calls forth
+the hidden forces of the soul: they came in such perfect rapport with
+him in his inner life, that they sensed with soulful eyes the strong,
+radiant, symmetrical spirit shining through the defects and barriers of
+a fleshly prison. Thus transfigured, they saw him, not as he appeared to
+ordinary mortals, but as he really was. To these people of Solaris, this
+transfiguration was lasting. Very soon they came to regard him as a
+talisman of good fortune--the mascot of the farm.
+
+The Photographic Club, organized by George Gerrish soon after the press
+club with the intention of making it the nucleus of a future art club,
+proved a surprising success at an early stage of its existence. Very
+soon after active work began, fifty members had been enrolled. In
+discussing with the executive committee a general plan of formation,
+Fillmore Flagg remarked that he felt very sure the club would soon prove
+a valuable aid to the farm in the direction of furnishing attractive
+illustrations of the farm itself, its products, stock, fruits and
+flowers, to be used as advertisements. With this in view, he made
+arrangements to provide suitable rooms, large, well lighted and fitted
+for the work, in connection with the construction of an isolated
+building, made as nearly fire-proof as possible which, when finished,
+was to be devoted mainly to the needs of farm experiments in the
+department of agricultural chemistry. The completed rooms, with a large
+lot of cameras of various sizes, together with an abundant supply of
+photographic material, were placed at the disposal of the working
+members of the club. These things were rightly considered a necessary
+part of an educational outfit. Fillmore Flagg and George Gerrish both
+were skillful photographers: with the wise guidance of two such able
+teachers, the class soon began to produce creditable work. After the
+expiration of a fixed period, in compliance with an imperative club
+rule, each member was obliged to complete all work from start to finish
+without assistance. This would give scope and opportunity for
+expressions of spontaneity and inventive genius in the individual
+treatment of the work, which might tend to the evolution of superior
+methods. It was clearly an advantage for the members to be able to say
+truthfully that photographs produced under such requirements were
+actually the results of their own individual handiwork; from focusing
+the object, timing the exposure of the plate, on through the various
+stages of developing, toning, printing and mounting, up to the final
+process of polishing the finished picture. At the end of each month the
+members individually were required to submit twelve finished photographs
+to the inspection of a committee of five. This committee was composed of
+two ladies and two gentlemen in addition to Fillmore Flagg, who was the
+chairman. From this collection of twelve lot pictures, representing the
+finest work of the club, the committee selected four photographs from
+each lot, which were chosen to become a part of the farm exhibit to be
+displayed on the walls of the library, hall of education and the
+school-rooms. This monthly award for meritorious work acted as a
+wonderful stimulus to all the club members, so increasing their
+ambition, industry and artistic invention, that an ever increasing
+number of delightful surprises followed each monthly examination. In
+considering the selections as a class, the extent and variety of the
+subjects treated covered a wide range. Among them we may name the
+general and special views of the farm, its buildings, fields of grain,
+corn, cotton and broom corn; bits of forest, meadow or brookside
+landscapes; specimens of the different vegetables and garden products;
+interior views of the different buildings; photographs of groups and of
+individual members of the company; pictures of manufactured articles,
+tableware, ornamental brick and tile work, and general pottery; a great
+variety of cabinet work, furniture and willow ware; splendid photographs
+of horses, mules, cattle, sheep, hogs and poultry, also wild animals and
+birds, singly and in groups; views of trees, streams, roads, bridges and
+railroad trains; enlarged photographs of the insect enemies of farm
+products; others of the birds which prey upon such insects; artistic
+views of seed beds, nursery rows, potting sheds, brick and pottery
+works--in fact, pictures of every possible aspect of the agricultural
+and manufacturing industries on the farm. Taken together, this
+collection presented a most interesting series for the school rooms,
+which proved an object lesson of great value to both pupil and teacher.
+The landscapes were especially excellent in giving correct ideas of
+distance values in perspective drawing.
+
+As time passed, the inventive genius of the club members began to crop
+out in the repair shop, where they not infrequently, and sometimes much
+to their surprise, found themselves able to construct better and cheaper
+instruments, lenses and attachments than they were able to buy. With
+these improvements they soon achieved success in color photography.
+Later this led to making magnificently colored slides for stereopticon,
+kinetescope and biograph exhibits, which soon attracted wide attention
+and were in such demand that a large trade resulted. In this way another
+exceedingly profitable allied industry was added to the now famous
+Solaris Farm.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+FENWICK HALL.
+
+
+In the infancy of this Republic, when its government was looking about
+for a permanent home, Gen. Washington was moved to found and lay out the
+City of Washington as its Capitol. With a marvelous prescience he
+foresaw the coming needs and future greatness of the newly-united
+states. Impressed with visions of the glorious destiny awaiting his
+beloved people, his cherished republic, he wisely concluded to provide
+generously for the growth of a magnificent city which, a century later,
+should reflect credit as the capital of a mighty nation. Careless of the
+gibes and sneers of many of his most intimate friends, Washington, the
+far-seeing statesman, the invincible soldier, deliberately planned,
+platted and surveyed through the wilderness of forest at that time
+covering the great triangular basin lying between the Heights of
+Columbia and the waters of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers; such a
+bewildering array of broad streets, wide avenues, and roomy public
+parks, as would be ample and suitable for a brilliant city like Paris,
+(whose system of streets he had taken as a model,) at least sufficient
+for the wants of a population of a half million. The dawn of the
+twentieth century saw a complete realization of General Washington's
+brightest hopes, a verification of his prophetic visions. The wand of
+progress had transformed the straggling village of "magnificent
+distances," into the most royally beautiful city on the continent. A
+city which had become the pride and delight of one hundred millions of
+free people, who individually felt a personal interest in the vastness,
+the beauty and the imposing grandeur of its magnificent public
+buildings, which represented the crowning loveliness of architectural
+design, the highest artistic expression of American genius; altogether
+most perfectly and fittingly adorning the unrivaled capitol city of the
+most progressive, powerful, and meritoriously dominant republic on the
+face of the planet! To this Mecca of republics, as the social and
+political center of the western hemisphere, came the great thinkers,
+scientists, artists, orators and statesmen of the world.
+
+Commandingly situated on Columbia Heights, overlooking this surpassingly
+beautiful city, was Fenwick Hall, the home of Fern Fenwick. The Hall was
+a large quadrangular structure of imposing appearance, erected in the
+center of spacious grounds, most charmingly laid out, with a rare
+combination of lawn, flowers and shrubbery. The material used in its
+construction was Seneca sandstone, in color a rich dark red, and was
+trimmed with a pale mottled green stone, quite as beautiful as
+serpentine. The effect of the combination was as harmonious as it was
+ornamental. The main building was four full stories in height above the
+deep basement. It was made more conspicuous and more picturesque by the
+four octagonal towers, one-half of which projected from each corner of
+the building. These beautiful towers of a uniform size, rose thirty
+feet above the roof of the building itself. The basement and towers were
+of rough green stone; the caps and sills of the long, deep windows,
+together with the arcade, were of green stone, beautifully carved and
+polished. The arcade, which served both as a covered way, and a portico
+over the main entrance, was at once artistic and unique. It was formed
+by a picturesque combination of four Moorish arches. These arches were
+uniformly twenty-five feet in height and twenty-five feet in width: the
+openings of the double arch were placed in front with the single
+openings at either side. By this arrangement the beauty of the entire
+structure was greatly enhanced, while a very appropriate entrance to
+Fenwick Hall was the result.
+
+At the rear of the grounds, on a line with the center of the mansion,
+were the roomy stables. They were built of rough Seneca sandstone. Like
+Swiss cottages, they were made more beautiful by a profusion of richly
+colored slates which covered the broad, steep roof and the wide eaves.
+Between the mansion and the stables, on the same line, twenty-five feet
+distant from the former, was the pretty two story building, of the same
+material, devoted to the kitchen, the heating and the lighting plants.
+Both buildings were connected with each other and with the main building
+by a long colonnade of harmonious proportions; its heavy cornice,
+narrow, steep roof, and long double line of slender supporting pillars,
+were all of the same red stone. The color effects offered by the lovely
+contrast between the velvety green of the broad, smoothly shaven lawns
+and the rich reds of the Seneca stone, were simply delightful!
+Architecturally considered, the combined effect of the group of
+buildings, arcade and colonnade, was as artistic as it was excellent.
+Under the arcade, just inside the double arch, a broad flight of stone
+steps led up to the heavy oak doors opening into the wide hall on the
+main floor. This hall was remarkable for its unusual size; it was thirty
+feet wide and of a proportionate height, fifteen feet from floor to
+ceiling. In connection with a cross hall twenty feet in width, it served
+to divide the entire space on this floor--one hundred and sixty feet by
+ninety--into four very large rooms; the two parlors, the library, and
+the dining room: each one thirty feet in width by seventy feet in
+length, with fifteen foot ceilings.
+
+The grand proportions of these magnificent rooms and stately halls,
+excited universal admiration; they impressed the beholder with a
+dominant idea of the spacious luxury which marked the interior
+appointments of Fenwick Hall. In the center of the main hall, thirty
+feet from the front entrance, began the flight of the grand stairway.
+The general design of this stairway was boldly unique. It was in harmony
+with the scale of magnificence which characterized the halls and
+parlors. In three long flights of twenty-five steps each, it rose to the
+fourth floor. Counting the fifteen-foot landings on the second and third
+floors, it was practically one structure with a generous breadth of
+fifteen feet. It was built of the same material--American mahogany--with
+casings, cornices, banisters and newels of the same pattern and finish,
+all highly polished and rich with ornamental carving. The beautiful
+color effects of the polished mahogany, were brought out more vividly by
+the pale neutral tint of the heavy velvet carpet, which covered the
+stairs and landings. As an illustration of the great space occupied by
+this grand stairway of such ideal proportions, each one of its
+seventy-five broad steps would afford a comfortable seat for eight
+persons--a goodly company of six hundred, all told. This royal trinity
+of stairways ranked as the distinguishing feature of the mansion. They
+gave it an air of stately elegance, tempered with the glow and warmth of
+a generous hospitality.
+
+The halls on the second and third floors were counterparts of the main
+hall in size and style. The hall on the fourth floor was fifty feet wide
+by one hundred and sixty feet long. It was arranged to be used as a ball
+room, or for concerts, lectures, operas and theatricals. For such
+events, it would comfortably seat an audience of one thousand people.
+The roomy stage was furnished with the latest and most approved
+appliances; it was also equipped with a remarkable series of twelve drop
+curtains for the lectures. Number one of the series, was a twelve by
+twenty-four foot map of the United States, including Alaska, Hawaii,
+Porto Rico and other territorial possessions. This map was accurately
+drawn to a large scale, it was artistically colored and marked in such a
+way as to show at a glance the boundaries of original territory; the
+ceded territory, the date of cession, and from whom acquired; the
+dividing lines between states and between counties; the location of all
+cities and towns having a population of one thousand or over; the
+principal state and county roads, all railroads, lakes, rivers,
+mountains, public parks, valuable forests, arid lands, irrigable lands,
+mineral deposits; all noted mines of coal, iron, gold, silver, copper,
+etc., together with a great variety of important items: all of which
+proved exceedingly valuable as an added means by which to illustrate in
+an interesting and comprehensive way, lectures on geographical,
+geological and historical subjects, together with lectures on the
+natural wealth and resources of our country; its manufacturing, mining,
+commercial and agricultural interests, with a great number of kindred
+topics as well. The second curtain was uniform in size with the first
+and with the entire series. On the same large scale, it gave a
+magnificent illustration of the solar system. The background was a pale
+bluish gray. The sun appeared as the central figure, surrounded by the
+planets in their orbits, carefully drawn as to comparative size and
+position. The whole map was colored with exquisite taste in perfect
+harmony with the beautiful sky effects of the background. The skillful
+work of the map maker proved especially strong in furnishing a lesson of
+wholesome humility for the over-proud denizens of the little planet
+Earth who, puffed up with much vanity, have for ages proclaimed the
+Earth as the pivotal center of all creation. The third curtain was
+simply a heavy, plain white one, perfectly fitted for the display of
+stereopticon views, and more especially for the moving panoramic views
+of the kinetescope, the vitascope and the biograph, which have proved
+such attractive and entertaining aids to the general lecturer, dealing
+with any special subject capable of such profuse illustration. The
+remaining nine curtains were devoted to outline maps of the world, and
+to illustrated object-lessons in the most important and interesting
+departments of nature.
+
+The side walls of this remarkable hall were wainscoted in polished hard
+wood, for a distance of five feet above the floor: the remaining wall
+space was divided into large ornamental panels, with beautifully
+scrolled historical borders. In these panels were painted, one in each,
+large maps of the States and Territories, which were drawn to uniform
+scale, minutely accurate, with every post office, post road, wagon road
+or cycle path plainly marked. In addition, at least twice the number of
+details usual to large maps showing counties and townships, were
+carefully noted. The effect of this unique educational system of
+ornamentation was as interesting as it was fascinating. In harmony with
+this idea, the entire length of the broad ceiling overhead was painted a
+pale blue; it was divided into two large panels with ornate borders;
+each panel was dotted with stars and planets in such a methodical way as
+to form a complete astronomical map of the visible heavens, both
+northern and southern hemispheres. This, with several of the large drop
+curtains, served as adjuncts to the well equipped observatory which was
+located in one of the large towers at the rear of the mansion.
+
+On the main floor, on each side of the front hall, were the two grand
+parlors, whose exact dimensions have been stated heretofore. They were
+carpeted and furnished with all the art and luxury that skill could
+devise, or wealth could procure. Two wide archways of Moorish style and
+majestic proportions, opened from each parlor into the main hall. The
+chief adornments which marked these fine parlors as unapproachably
+superb, were two immense mirrors, alike in every way, mounted in heavy
+frames, rich with leaf gold. They occupied the entire wall space at the
+rear end of these enchanting saloons of artistic luxury. When
+distinguished groups of brave men and beautiful women were assembled
+here, the magical effect of these mirrors in reproducing the brilliant
+company as one magnificently framed panoramic picture, was ever the
+source of perpetual admiration and delight. On such occasions the
+thirty feet of the main hall in front of the stairway, served as the
+third or reception parlor. The grand stairway shone resplendent as one
+magnificent centerpiece of loveliness. Up the long flight on either
+side, it was banked by a wealth of potted flowers, ferns and palms,
+festooned with wreaths of lovely smilax. Just in front of this unrivaled
+background of beauty, standing alone upon the movable reception
+platform, which was merely a small circular extension of the first step
+of the grand stairway, the charming young hostess of Fenwick Hall, with
+the grace and courtesy of a born princess, gave a greeting of welcome to
+her delighted guests, or dismissed them with a gracious smile as they
+entered or retired.
+
+The library, in the rear of the parlor at the left of the main hall and
+separated from it by the cross hall, was an exceedingly imposing and
+attractive room. With its quiet array of costly appointments, it seemed
+to possess some hidden charm. Its mahogany shelves were laden with a
+rare collection of choice books, elegantly bound, skillfully arranged
+and classified. The assortment of scientific books was a remarkably
+large one. Marble statues, and exquisitely painted portraits of a host
+of famous authors and artists, whose works had enriched the literature
+of the world, fittingly adorned this ideal realm of drowsy quiet, where
+both lore and luxury reigned supreme.
+
+The dining room was uniform in size with the parlors and the library.
+Its walls and ceiling were frescoed with groups of graceful figures,
+which represented the merry sprites of pleasure in carnivals of
+feasting, song and dancing. Each figure was a carefully studied type of
+beauty; each group a perfect expression of grace and gaiety. Studied
+singly or as parts of the entire composition, they were exquisite as
+works of art, charming the attention of the beholder with a bewildering
+fascination. The floor was one vast mosaic of superbly colored tiles.
+The heavy mahogany tables and sideboards were glittering with their
+costly equipments of shining silver, sparkling cut glass, and rare,
+translucent china. Large oval mirrors in heavy carved frames, duplicated
+the lovely adornments of this brilliant room from a dozen points of
+vantage. The dazzling effect of this home of the feast, was intensified
+by cascades of light from the two unrivaled chandeliers. They supported
+a great number of slender bulbs containing the electric lights, which
+were arranged in the form of a mass of drooping fern leaves, rising like
+a pyramid of soft radiance, into the perfect shape of two superb
+fountains. Tiny streams of short prisms, clear, flashing, crystal,
+pendant and vibrating, formed the tip of each fern leaf. This skillful
+combination seemed to complete the startling illusion of this rare
+vision of loveliness, until one could almost hear the musical tinkle of
+falling water.
+
+The three halls on the main, second and third floors, were really
+galleries of art "par excellence," they were so profusely adorned with
+choice collections of photographs, etchings, water colors, paintings and
+statuary. On entering the main hall, two very large paintings of
+extraordinary significance and rare merit claimed instant admiration.
+Companion pictures, each with a canopy and background of crossed
+American flags, from whose voluminous folds shone the blazing glory of
+color in the matchless beauty of the stars and stripes. In each picture
+under these flags, the dominant spirit of the republic breathed in the
+noble figures so exquisitely painted; typifying in the one on the right,
+the Goddess of Liberty watching over the destiny of the republic. In the
+one on the left, Liberty with her torch lighting the world. So perfectly
+did the painter's art portray the "Spirit of '76," that a new tide of
+patriotic devotion to the republic and its glorious flag, swelled the
+hearts of all who saw these justly famous pictures.
+
+The well lighted, well ventilated rooms in the basement were used as
+store rooms, a suitable number being set apart for the servants, as
+dressing rooms, dining room and sitting room. In a large bay window
+extension at the rear of the main hall, a sumptuously furnished elevator
+connected the basement with all of the halls, the roof and the towers.
+The rooms on the second and third floors were arranged in suites of
+three: reception, sleeping and bath. In size, fittings and furnishings,
+they were models of comfort and luxury.
+
+The four octagonal tower rooms were uniformly twenty-five feet in
+diameter, with lofty dome ceilings. The right front tower was occupied
+by Fern Fenwick as her private study and work room. It was fitted and
+furnished much the same as the library. The left front tower was
+arranged as a seance room for spiritual manifestations, and more
+especially for the different phases of mediumship possessed by Mrs.
+Bainbridge, including materialization. As before stated, the right hand
+tower at the rear was perfectly equipped as an observatory, while the
+rooms under it were devoted to the demonstration of kindred sciences.
+The left tower at the rear was furnished and arranged as a laboratory.
+The rooms under it were set apart for experiment and demonstrations in
+chemistry, metallurgy, photography and several other sciences of like
+nature.
+
+An able corps of carefully trained servants, under the direction of Mrs.
+Bainbridge, the housekeeper, made it easy to keep this remarkable
+establishment in perfect order. One and all, these model servants were
+devoted to their lovely young mistress, and this devotion was based on
+their keen appreciation of her noble ideas in regard to the true purpose
+of human life, to her high estimation of its sacredness. They were eager
+to serve her faithfully and well for less than ordinary wages, contented
+and confident in the knowledge that, in accordance with her clear sense
+of justice, they were sure of being retired on half pay after having
+reached the age of fifty-five. This brief description of the exterior
+and interior of Fenwick Hall, its equipment, its lovely mistress and its
+people, will but faintly suggest its extraordinary possibilities as a
+potent factor in the upper circles of Washington life. Almost three
+years have passed since the transition of Fennimore Fenwick, which left
+his only daughter, Fern Fenwick, as the sole heir to his vast wealth.
+With the exception of three months each summer, spent at Fairy Fern
+Cottage, or some mountain resort near it, she had remained quietly at
+Fenwick Hall, busily engaged in rebuilding and refitting it. Meanwhile
+under the instruction of able teachers, she had been hard at work in
+efforts to supplement her excellent collegiate education with a better
+knowledge of history and by a more complete mastery of the subtle
+secrets of the higher sciences, as exponents of the powers, properties
+and purposes of the inherent forces belonging to the various
+departments of Nature's vast domain.
+
+After much deliberation she had undertaken this work to enable her to
+wisely prepare and plan for a life work in harmony with her lofty ideas
+on the subject--ideas which had been slowly ripening in her mind for
+many months. Having passed the ordeal of this severe post graduate
+course of general study, she felt herself prepared to commence the work
+contemplated by her general plan, which embraced a skillful use of the
+great educational and social advantages of Fenwick Hall, in her
+endeavors to bring to the leading minds of the political and social
+circles of Washington a clear conception of the importance and
+significance of the real purpose of human life; with a view to reforming
+ethical, social, industrial and political organizations on the true
+basis of the unselfishness of the individual for the advancement of the
+race; thus bringing these organizations into exact and co-operative
+harmony with the object and purpose of the existence of the planet.
+Systems so organized, would then be in line with a true conception of
+the functions of an ideal republic--a government for the people, of the
+people and by the people; conducted for the benefit, protection and
+development of all the people. With the world organized into families of
+such republics, the advent of the millennium could be predicted, and the
+advancement of the race to the point of perfection would be insured.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA.
+
+
+From a careful review of her historical studies, Fern Fenwick came to
+the conclusion that the competitive system was responsible for a
+majority of the evils which had so retarded the world's progress. She
+discovered that this same system was the father of a conscienceless
+commercial spirit which had existed for many centuries as the basis of
+all social organization. That as such, it was a constant menace to all
+good society; the embodiment of a cruel selfishness of a savage type,
+which insisted that might makes right--that the strong should thrive by
+preying upon the weak. In this position it boldly denied the immortality
+of the soul, so far as the weaker workers were concerned. Therefore the
+cheap lives of these poor people had no claim to be considered as
+sacred, because they represented so many human souls. In the absence of
+any practical or effective protest from the religions of the world, this
+monstrous system of selfishness had in all these years, grown unchecked
+and unmolested in its methods of cruel greed. From the shadows and gloom
+of these threatening conditions, existing so manifestly in direct
+violation of all progressive law, came a demand that the negative belief
+in the immortality of the soul, be speedily replaced by a positive
+knowledge of it. A knowledge sustained and supported by practical
+demonstrations, through the action of natural law, whose manifestations
+and demonstrations should be so direct and indisputable as to appeal
+convincingly to the hard headed thinkers, who as a class, seemed to
+represent a materialistic element that threatened to overthrow all
+belief in immortality.
+
+In answer to this demand, about the beginning of the last half of the
+nineteenth century, there happened an event of the utmost importance,
+potent with promise for the mighty spiritual unfoldment and general
+advancement of the people of the twentieth century.
+
+In the humble home of the Fox family, at the little village of
+Hydesville, near Rochester, New York, by the co-operative efforts of
+mortals and spirits, there was constructed and established a line of
+communication between the two worlds--the mortal and the spiritual. Two
+little children, the Fox girls, were the mediums, a combination of
+operator and electric battery--or, in other words the necessary
+instruments for successful spiritual telegraphy. In this obscure home of
+the poor and lowly, in a quiet way, unheralded and unannounced, there
+came to the world a knowledge of the existence of one of nature's
+grandest laws, the law of mediumship; thereafter the way was open, on
+the physical plane of existence, for an unlimited series of practical
+demonstrations of the immortality of the human soul: the continuity of
+conscious life was substantiated by an endless variety of proofs of the
+most convincing character.
+
+With this solution, of the destiny of the human soul as an immortal and
+imperishable entity, came the solid ground on which to build a permanent
+foundation for a social and industrial organization, on a basis of
+unselfish, harmonious co-operation in perfect accord with planetary
+evolution, and the real object and purpose of human life.
+
+This strong combination of the working factors of the problem,
+suggested to the mind of Fern Fenwick the importance of first attempting
+to interest the minds of the people she wished to control, in the
+question of immortality as a natural fact that followed the dual nature
+of all human life, as a result of planetary evolution. Once interested,
+she could then convince them of the immortality of the soul, as a
+conscious, imperishable entity, by practical demonstrations through the
+law of mediumship.
+
+These demonstrations would make it clear to them that life on the
+physical plane of existence is transitory and ephemeral; somewhat in the
+nature of a very brief period of primary experiences; that life on the
+spiritual plane of existence is permanent and enduring; that therefore
+the pathway of progress for the human soul must be almost entirely
+within the realms of the world of spirit; that this great truth should
+have careful consideration when dealing with questions affecting human
+lives; that the dominant immortal spirit of the dual individual
+possesses a corporeal body, or mortal form, as a crude outward
+expression of the indwelling spirit in its earthly existence; that this
+mortal form enfolds all the possibilities of a life of eternal
+progression for the Ego or spirit as a conscious identity on the
+spiritual plane of existence; that the change called death is a natural
+one, to be approached calmly without a fear; that it is really a new
+birth, which does not disturb the continuity of life.
+
+Once convinced of the verity of these great truths, all lovers of
+humanity, all progressive people, all earnest thinkers, would readily
+understand and appreciate the sacredness of human life, as the flower
+and fruit of the planet--its highest expression; they would then be
+prepared to co-operate with any progressive movement for the
+advancement of the race.
+
+To make the necessary conditions for the accomplishment of this great
+work was the grand purpose of Fern Fenwick's Washington life. With this
+purpose in view, Fenwick Hall had been especially fitted and equipped.
+For this she had cultivated a large circle of acquaintances among the
+fashionable leaders of the best society of the Capital City. Caring but
+little for the ceaseless round of soul-wearying social functions which
+so completely absorbed these people; yet filled with a determination to
+win them to a higher life, she bore herself bravely through the season
+which proved one long procession of social triumphs. Inspired by the
+intensity of a grand purpose; endowed with a clear, musical voice,
+perfect health, youth and beauty, combined with a charmingly
+irresistible personal magnetism; armed with the quiet dignity of
+perfect self-control, and the genius of her brilliant mind, so broadly
+cultured; an adept in psychic lore; an entertaining and eloquent
+conversationalist, our heroine created a profound sensation in the most
+select circles of the social world. Everywhere she was the center of
+attraction, surrounded by admiring throngs of cultured people,
+representing wealth and leisure, who hastened to pay homage to her as a
+Twentieth Century society goddess, whose wand of magic controlled
+millions of money. In the homes of the exclusive few, she was hailed as
+a thrice welcome guest; celebrities, ranking high as statesmen,
+soldiers, poets, artists, authors, representative professional men and
+leading men of business, were completely charmed and curiously
+fascinated by this new queen of the social realm, and vied with each
+other in eager efforts to win her favor and perhaps her friendship, in
+the hope of gaining admittance to the very limited circle of fortunate
+people who were the recipients of invitations to the famous dinners,
+receptions and entertainments at Fenwick Hall. These people
+instinctively felt the attractive power of some silent, mysterious
+force, some high motive, which, combined with dazzling beauty and
+brilliant genius, drew them to her side, without the wish or power to
+resist.
+
+This phenomenal wave of popularity continued to increase until a choice
+of the best people in every branch of the social world, was at the
+command of this new leader of the exclusive set; they were ready to
+assist in carrying forward any progressive movement she might choose, by
+her championship to make the fashion. However, this universal
+willingness to follow her leadership, seemed based on a firm conviction
+in some way unconsciously established in the minds of her devotees, that
+all of Fern Fenwick's plans and purposes were for the good of humanity,
+wisely guided by a skill and judgment most remarkably rare--apparently
+far beyond her years! The whole situation was a complex problem they
+could not analyze: they did not even try!
+
+With the advent of modern spiritualism in 1848, came the first
+opportunity to bring woman forward as a teacher and leader in the great
+work of elevating and spiritualizing the masses. As a heritage from her
+sister oracles, who spake in the mystic temples of the ancient past, the
+modern woman was endowed with the divinity of a rarely sensitive and
+highly refined spiritual organization. By virtue of this endowment, she
+speedily demonstrated her peculiar fitness for this new mission. Her
+eloquence and inspiration charmed the multitude from a thousand
+rostrums. Her work in this new field was so startlingly brilliant,
+important and successful as to attract the attention of the whole
+civilized world; affording a remarkable object lesson which demonstrated
+her possession, as the mouth-piece of inspiration, of a wonderful
+magnetic power to sway the people; to enthuse, interest and educate them
+up to higher mental, moral and spiritual conditions; by making them
+aware of the vast import of the true purpose of human life; by helping
+them to realize to a limited degree, the significance of immortality,
+their individual responsibility in relation to the universe, as
+important factors in the evolutionary advancement of the race toward the
+millennium of its final destiny.
+
+These inspired teachings touched a responsive chord in the hearts of all
+womankind as they began, dimly at first, to perceive the all-pervading
+force and rythm of the dominant key-note to the evolution of the race,
+which in thunder tones ever proclaims the mighty truth, that all
+progress of the race depends entirely upon the elevation, education and
+refinement achieved by woman. They also began to understand something of
+the glorious possibilities of a perfected womanhood, as a regenerator of
+mankind. A magnificent array of future victories for woman's work loomed
+up before them as a command to awake; to prepare for the coming dawn of
+the twentieth century--the beginning of a new cycle in the life of the
+planet; the commencement of woman's golden era! To woman the command was
+imperative that she must strive for more wisdom, for more light on her
+holy mission as the evangel of evolving life; that she might reach a
+higher consciousness of her individual responsibility as the keeper and
+guardian of the sacred temple of human life--a temple in which is ever
+repeated the evolution, ontogeny, and phylogeny of the race; where, by
+this most mysteriously beautiful of all processes, there is constantly
+being welded together the planetary growth, physical, mental and
+psychical experiences of ages upon ages in the past; with the higher,
+purer, better and more spiritual possibilities of the race in its
+planetary progress for uncounted ages yet to come.
+
+From this general awakening there followed--for the purpose of securing
+that practical education of training, which actual contact and
+individual experience alone can confer--a vigorous effort on the part of
+the brightest and most progressive women of the Nineteenth Century, to
+enter, singly and as organizations, into all the activities of life.
+Hampered by the blinding prejudice of a long line of centuries; many of
+these earlier organizations, as might have been foreseen, were
+unsparingly criticised as exhibitions of ill-directed foolishness,
+altogether crude, unprogressive and unsatisfactory. Nevertheless, the
+dominant spirit of courageous and persistent effort, combined with high
+purpose and pure motive, soon won the approval of the better classes and
+accomplished a marked improvement in both work and method. This rapid
+improvement pointed unerringly to future achievement of that success
+shown in the conditions which prevailed at the close of the century,
+whereby woman was very generally recognized as a necessary and
+successful co-worker in all the suitable employments of life.
+
+Fern Fenwick, in full sympathy with the movement, was alive to the
+demands of the situation. With the purpose of concentrating the efforts
+of all the women's organizations which held their annual conventions in
+Washington, into one channel, leading to perfect motherhood, as the
+result of woman's social and financial independence; she identified
+herself with them as a generous contributor. Soon she became the friend
+and trusted adviser of all of the leaders. She placed Fenwick Hall at
+their disposal, for use as a general headquarters. In this way, a wise
+direction of the combined women's movement into a united work along
+lines in harmony with planetary evolution for the perfection of the
+race, became an integral part of Fern Fenwick's broad plan for a life
+work.
+
+By the end of Fillmore Flagg's first year at Solaris Farm, Fern Fenwick
+had matured her plans for her own peculiar work. Much to her
+satisfaction, the necessary conditions had been created, the whole
+movement organized and well in hand. Fillmore's work for the education
+and elevation of the agricultural classes, had given her energy and
+inspiration to accomplish a similar and co-operative work among people
+of wealth and leisure, who, ignorant of the true object and purpose of
+life, were unwittingly wasting precious years in leading indolent and
+aimless lives, by lending themselves body and soul to the care and
+canker of the fashionable game of killing time. One year's experience
+had taught her that the task was a difficult one, to accomplish which
+required time, patience and perseverance, reinforced by courage, skill
+and tact.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+HIS WOOING PROSPERS WHILE OUR HERO ENJOYS HIS FIRST VACATION.
+
+
+Fern Fenwick's interest in the experimental farm was intense. She read
+with eagerness the weekly reports from Fillmore Flagg, which were
+accompanied by such charmingly ardent love letters. She was very proud
+of the success he had achieved in two short years. She blushed as she
+thought how dear to her he had become in those busy months which swiftly
+passed. How much she should miss him and his fascinating love letters,
+if by evil chance anything should happen to take him away from her! She
+could not contemplate such a possibility without a shudder. Now that her
+studies were finished and her plans perfected, why not send for him to
+come to Fenwick Hall for a week's vacation? He had certainly earned the
+privilege which he would prize so much. The opportunity to personally
+compare notes and exchange suggestions would no doubt prove helpful to
+the farm work and to her own. She longed for the confidential
+companionship of some one who was in perfect sympathy with her, who
+could understand her work, and appreciate her motives in carrying it
+forward; some one who would be able to advise her wisely and
+unselfishly; one in whom she had implicit confidence. Who so capable and
+so desirable as Fillmore Flagg? Acting on the impulse of the moment, she
+wrote the letter directing him to come at once.
+
+To Fillmore Flagg, the summons to Washington proved as welcome as it
+was unexpected. He came at the earliest possible moment. The hope of
+again meeting the noblest, sweetest, and dearest woman in the world for
+him, his heart's idol; of again being permitted to look long and
+lovingly into her gloriously beautiful eyes, stirred his emotional
+nature intensely, and fired his throbbing pulse with the fever of
+impatient expectancy. The beautiful words of the poet Dennison, in his
+"Night Ride of a Lover," were ever in his mind and on his lips. Over and
+over again he murmured:
+
+
+     "Though fleet as an arrow he flies,
+     Though sundering space swiftly dies,
+       My heart cries 'Oh haste!
+       All time is a waste
+     'Till I drink of her soul at her eyes!'"
+
+
+The speediest express train seemed a laggard, left far behind in the
+race of the journey by his swift desire, which kept pace with the
+telegram announcing his departure from Solaris and the probable time of
+his arrival in Washington. At length his heart was made glad by a
+distant glimpse of the dome of the Capitol, which seemed to give him a
+welcome greeting as it marked his approach to the great city. He found
+Fern Fenwick's carriage, with Mrs. Bainbridge waiting for him at the
+depot. Half an hour later he was shown into the library at Fenwick Hall,
+where in radiant beauty his blushing sweetheart gave him a royal
+welcome.
+
+As he approached her, with shining eyes and face aglow, soul and body
+radiant with the grace and adoration of his all-absorbing love, the
+heroic order of his manly beauty thrilled the heart of Fern Fenwick with
+its irresistible charm. The kisses claimed by a lover's privilege, she
+was powerless to deny. Nay! she did not try to hide the shining light
+of a great happiness from the adoring eyes of such a noble lover, whose
+magnetic presence stilled the tumult of her fluttering heart with the
+ecstatic calm of a measureless content; that unmistakable signature of
+sanction, that crowning seal of nature's approval which greets the
+meeting of kindred souls, who, mated in the warp and woof of the web of
+destiny, in the flashing flight of Cupid's dart, become the harmoniously
+united halves of a perfect whole.
+
+Ah, thrice happy, thrice blessed, thrice crowned lovers! How swiftly
+passed those golden hours, as hand in hand, they sat entranced, with
+soulful eyes in silent communion, dreaming and drifting in the
+cloud-land of love's harvest-moon, in whose silvery mist they lost all
+consciousness of the existence in this world of aught else beside
+themselves!
+
+The next morning after his arrival at Fenwick Hall, Fillmore Flagg
+having breakfasted with Fern Fenwick and Mrs. Bainbridge, accompanied
+the former to her work room in the tower. Here, as had been arranged on
+the previous evening, she gave him a complete account of her work in
+Washington, since the transition of her father. She also gave the
+details of her general plan for enlarging the scope of the work to
+include the women's movement and of directing the combined work in such
+a way as to become an aid to the work of the model farm.
+
+"My dear Fillmore," said Fern, "How are you impressed by my scheme for
+carrying out the chosen plans? Can you suggest anything that may be of
+assistance to me?"
+
+"Your scheme," replied Fillmore Flagg, "is a glorious one which promises
+to start a revolution in the aristocratic circles of society. It
+impresses me profoundly, as a deep laid plot, cunning and strong, which
+must accomplish a vast amount of good for the interests of humanity. So
+deep, so broad and so vast are its possibilities, that a week devoted to
+study and reflection would but poorly prepare me to understand its
+significance or perfection as a whole, much less to pronounce judgment
+upon it. But at this moment, of one thing I feel sure--that the noble
+purpose which has inspired your skill and genius in the construction of
+this remarkable plan, which deals so effectively and practically with
+human life as the result of planetary evolution, will prove a sure guide
+to success. The plan itself, in all of its details, is already so
+perfect, in my estimation, as to leave nothing for me to suggest by way
+of improvement. It is characteristic of you and of your capacity for
+brilliant work! I am, more than ever before, amazed at this exhibition
+of your intellectual greatness, which demonstrates your power to think
+so deeply and plan so wisely. I am very proud of you! I am especially
+grateful for this opportunity to burn incense as a worshipper at the
+shrine of your genius! You ask to what extent will the work affect the
+destiny of woman? I answer, its possibilities in that direction are
+limitless! They are beyond the power of any living mortal to comprehend!
+With woman surrounded by such conditions of financial independence, and
+such harmonious environments as will permit her to devote the best
+energies of her soul to the perfection of the highest type of
+motherhood, there will come a solution of the problem of how best to
+accomplish the perfection of the race. Surely, generations far in the
+future shall rise up to call you blessed! Dearest, best and noblest of
+women! Go forward bravely without a fear for the result. Undoubtedly
+your plan possesses all the elements of success. With the talisman of
+your goodness and beauty as the moving force, you cannot fail. Whatever
+I am capable of doing to assist you, I shall do gladly, with all my
+heart and strength."
+
+"Thank you, my dear Fillmore," said Fern, "your words of assurance and
+approval, so beautifully expressed, have appealed potently to all that
+is good and spiritual in my nature. They have inspired me to better and
+nobler deeds. They are very grateful to me and I prize them highly.
+
+"Now that you are so much interested, I feel sure you will be able to
+help me in thinking out some problems which puzzle me. For instance:
+From among the people I have interested, I wish to select and
+concentrate the dominant thinkers and workers of both sexes and from all
+classes, into some kind of a club organization, for the purpose of still
+further perfecting the efficiency of organized co-operative effort.
+Question: Shall this society take the form of a club? If so, what name
+shall I choose for it? In its formation what method shall I use? Can you
+evolve anything from your inner consciousness in answer to these
+questions?"
+
+Absorbed in the intensity and earnestness of her questioning spirit,
+Fern Fenwick left her chair and as her interrogatories came to an end,
+she stood by the side of Fillmore Flagg, looking straight into his eyes
+with such a penetrating, magnetic glance, that for some moments he was
+unable to reply. With his beautiful curl-crowned head thrown back to
+meet and return her entrancing gaze, he breathed but slowly and for the
+moment seemed rigid as a man of marble; a far-off, dreamy look shone
+from his half closed eyes. Presently, with a long sigh, speaking very
+slowly and softly, he said: "Ah! Miss Fenwick, I think I see what you
+are reaching out for. Your idea is coming to me now quite clearly." Then
+with returning animation he continued: "Yes, I grasp the idea; it is
+capital! I believe I can help you. I would suggest the use of the club
+formation without using the word 'club' in its title. I would call it
+'The Twentieth Century Cosmos.' I would choose for its badge of
+membership a small silver fern leaf, crossed by a large gold key. I
+would advise that you alone, as the founder and sole director of the
+club, should have the power to select the members, and to decorate them
+with the badge of membership. To be in harmony with the century idea,
+the number of members should be limited to one hundred. All meetings of
+the club should be held in suitable rooms at Fenwick Hall; these rooms
+should be known as Cosmos Court. Admittance to each meeting should be
+gained by the presentation at the door, of an invitation, printed on
+club paper, bearing the name of the member, giving the date and stating
+the object of the meeting, all duly attested by your written signature
+as director.
+
+"The object and purpose of the existence of the club may be stated as
+follows: That its membership may secure, by the harmonious association
+of properly qualified minds,--which shall represent the dominant
+thinkers in all departments of knowledge--a higher, broader conception
+of the possibilities and purposes of life; as the necessary basis which
+shall make it possible to acquire a larger store of cosmic wisdom, by
+the use of systematic methods of co-operative research, study and
+thought.
+
+"This system of formation for a club would certainly be unique. I
+believe it will prove to be especially well fitted for the
+accomplishment of your peculiar work. Does the plan proposed meet your
+approval by offering satisfactory answers to your questions?"
+
+"Oh! my dear Fillmore," said Fern, "what a darling, clever boy you are,
+to be sure! Now it is my turn to praise your wisdom and your genius. I
+think your plan is an excellent one, which will suit the exigencies of
+my purpose most admirably. Before you return to Solaris we will consider
+the details more at length. Now let us change the subject.
+
+"In keeping you so long at my work, how selfish and thoughtless I have
+been! I shall try to make amends! I have planned to make your brief
+visit as pleasant as possible. To-day I must show you over the house and
+grounds. In the afternoon we shall take a long drive which will give you
+a glimpse of the beautiful streets, buildings, parks and monuments of
+our lovely city. Each afternoon these drives are to be repeated, until
+you are familiar with the great possibilities of this city of destiny,
+this priceless gift--the perpetual home of the government of the
+nation--from General George Washington, who is forever enshrined in the
+hearts of the people as the founder of the republic, the father of his
+country! When you return to our farm people, I wish you to be able to
+impress them with the matchless beauty, vastness and importance of the
+City of Washington, the political center of this unrivaled republic. It
+is my great desire to have them always think of it and speak of it with
+love and pride, with feelings of individual proprietary interest, as
+they realize that they are important factors, as voters and working
+units of the government, in the great work of shaping its destiny.
+
+"As you are the guest of honor at Fenwick Hall, I am going to do my
+best to make you, for one week, the happiest man in town! The evenings
+are to be devoted to the theatre, the opera, and to various society
+events at Fenwick Hall, arranged for your especial benefit and
+edification."
+
+"My dear Fern," said Fillmore, "How good and kind you are! To be near
+you, to hear your voice, to look into your beautiful eyes; is paradise
+for me! A week so full of happiness, I shall cherish as the one week of
+a lifetime! As to these society events of which you speak, I shall be
+jealous of each moment so devoted which shall take you from my side.
+Pray then, my good angel, do make such moments as short as possible!"
+
+"Rest assured, my knight of the farm, you shall have no cause to
+complain," said Fern, with a saucy smile as she laid her hand
+caressingly on his arm. "You are to come with me, prepared to look and
+listen, while I show you the beauties of my Washington home!"
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+As the "Saint Louis Express" left the Washington station, westward
+bound, Fillmore Flagg caught a final glimpse of Fern Fenwick, as with
+characteristic grace and enthusiasm she continued to wave a parting
+salute with her dainty lace handkerchief, until the train had vanished
+around the curve. With a sigh he returned to his seat to muse over the
+events of the week which had passed so sweetly yet so very swiftly for
+him.
+
+Yes, Fern had kept her pledge up to the last moment. As the guest of
+honor at Fenwick Hall, she as hostess, in all the graciousness of her
+bewitching beauty, marked by such charming tenderness, had made him
+conscious each day that he was indeed the happiest man in town. He now
+returned to Solaris with renewed courage and enthusiasm, to prepare for
+the celebration at the farm of the coming arbor-day festival, which Fern
+had promised to attend. As this celebration was to mark her first visit
+to Solaris Farm, he wished most ardently to have it prove a great
+success.
+
+The events of the past week had been a revelation to Fillmore Flagg: a
+host of new attributes to the noble character of Fern Fenwick had shone
+forth and dazzled him by their unexpected brilliancy. He began to
+realize what a wonderful woman she was in this new role, as the queen of
+the select set in the aristocratic circles of Washington society.
+
+Her strange power to mold the minds of these people; to make them strive
+for the accomplishment of social and industrial reforms, which meant the
+redemption of the masses, impressed him most profoundly. By what
+remarkable process had she, in so short a time, achieved such commanding
+heights of intellectual and spiritual greatness? Heights, where by
+operating from the vantage ground of the social and political center of
+the republic, like some chief marshal on the broad field of human
+events, she could, by the unseen and irresistible power of hypnotic
+suggestion, inspire, guide and control the causative and law-making
+forces which so powerfully affect all social and industrial conditions.
+Was it possible that spiritual unfoldment alone, could confer such
+marvelous power? Apparently in response to the intensity of his
+question, came the reply:
+
+"When a person representing combined physical, intellectual and
+spiritual unfoldment, is inspired by a noble, unselfish desire to
+accomplish a great good for all human life, by the use of methods that
+are in conjunctive harmony with the evolutionary progress of the planet:
+then such a desire acquires an irresistible force. Naught can prevail
+against it! In compliance with the demands of a wise cosmic law, it has
+received the omnistic seal of nature's approval."
+
+The clearness and wisdom of this unexpected reply, appealed strongly to
+the reason of Fillmore Flagg. Profoundly moved, yet outwardly calm, he
+perceived at once that the truth of the statement was absolute! In the
+new light of this remarkable revelation, he wished to carefully examine
+the claim of the model co-operative farm to the seal of nature's
+approval. Were the desires, the ideas and the methods in conjunctive
+harmony with planetary evolution? Apparently they were! That the success
+of the model farm meant the elevation and future happiness of humanity,
+was true beyond question. Equally so was the intensity and unselfishness
+of the desire which had inspired his action and the acts of Fennimore
+Fenwick and his daughter, Fern. Surely then, the project bore the
+unmistakable stamp of approval which foretold success! It could not
+fail! It must succeed! It was irresistible and invincible!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+A SURPRISE PARTY AND RECEPTION COMBINED.
+
+
+As the train approached the station at Solaris, Fillmore, in blissful
+ignorance of coming events, began to prepare himself to leave the coach.
+In response to a letter from George Gerrish, he had wired from St.
+Louis the time of his arrival. As he was stepping from the train to the
+long platform, his hand baggage was seized by trusty hands and quickly
+disappeared. He noted with amazement the gaily decorated station and the
+throng of waiting people. Before he had recovered from his surprise,
+Gertrude Gerrish, evidently striving to assume a very dignified
+deportment, advanced to meet him. As she gave him a hearty welcome, she
+said:
+
+"As the leader of the reception committee, representing the membership
+and children of the Solaris Farm Company, who are gathered here in
+holiday attire, unanimous in a desire to do honor to you; I greet you! I
+welcome you back to Solaris Farm!"
+
+Turning quickly, with a wave of her hand, she said: "People of Solaris,
+three cheers for our General Manager!" At this time, the train having
+departed, the farm people almost covered the platform with two deep
+lines, facing a narrow lane in the center, with heads uncovered,
+prepared and waiting for the signal. The response came instantly in a
+ringing cheer from six hundred well-trained throats: "Hurrah! Hurrah!
+Hurrah for Fillmore Flagg! Welcome! Welcome! Welcome back to Solaris
+Farm!"
+
+Almost before Fillmore was aware of what had really happened, Gertrude
+Gerrish had taken his arm, as with a mysterious smile she said: "I am
+now to escort you to the carriage prepared for your reception. We are
+then to be escorted by the procession to the public square, in front of
+the hall of education and amusement, where the final ceremonies are to
+take place. Of course you are surprised! We have planned for that very
+purpose! So come along now without one word of protest! At the proper
+moment you are to have as much time as you may desire in which to
+relieve your mind. For the present you are to keep quiet and obey me--a
+despotic master of ceremonies whose will is imperative and whose dignity
+is not to be questioned, even for a moment!"
+
+Fillmore Flagg, now obediently dumb, entered into the spirit of the
+occasion. He was very much surprised--nay, well-nigh dazed--yet withal
+delighted, as the happy significance of this unexpected welcome came
+slowly into his mind. With hat in hand, bowing and smiling, arm in arm
+with Gertrude Gerrish, he slowly passed between the long lines of happy
+faces, keeping step with the throbbing measure of the soft sweet music
+discoursed by the band. At regular intervals, groups of gaily dressed
+children waved their pretty flags or playfully pelted him with roses. As
+the twain reached the end of the lines, a novel chariot was waiting: a
+ladder-wagon of the Solaris fire company, drawn by twenty brawny fire
+laddies, was equipped with a broad platform, beautifully draped, bearing
+at each corner a choice selection of fine large potted palms. In the
+center of this platform was a smaller one, raised still higher; on this
+was placed the seat of honor, which was covered by a lovely canopy of
+artistically interwoven ferns and flowers. A broad flight of rough board
+steps, carpeted and decorated, led up to the lofty seat on this unique
+chariot. While our hero and the "Master of Ceremonies" were climbing to
+reach it, the procession quickly formed about the chariot into an
+elongated hollow square, eight ranks deep; the children with their flags
+marching in alternating lines of boys and girls, formed the front of the
+square, while the adults arranged in the same order, formed the sides
+and the rear. Gilbert Gerrish, with the band of musicians, selected by
+him from the ranks of the musical club, was placed in front of the
+square. He was very proud and happy as he flourished his baton and gave
+the signal for the procession to move forward. In this order they
+marched gaily along the broad, tree lined avenue which led from the
+railroad station to the village square. The chariot came to a halt just
+in front of the hall of education and amusement, with the seat of honor
+facing eastward toward the center of the public square. The procession
+quickly reformed into three sides of a square, with the eight ranks
+facing inward.
+
+For a brief period silence reigned. Then at a signal from Gertrude
+Gerrish, as Fillmore Flagg arose with uncovered head and stood by her
+side, the cheers and greetings of welcome were repeated by the ranks
+with redoubled animation and intensity.
+
+At this juncture, George Gerrish came forward to the front of the raised
+platform, while Gertrude, turning to Fillmore, said; "The president of
+the Solaris Farm Company has been chosen by its people to present to you
+a gift which they have selected, as a tribute of their affection and
+also of their devotion to you and to Solaris Farm."
+
+"My esteemed friend and co-worker, Fillmore Flagg," said George Gerrish:
+"As the mouth piece of our people, I am happy to be permitted to join in
+the active work of this reception. The people of Solaris Farm, moved by
+one impulse, inspired by sentiments of sincere friendship and
+enthusiastic loyalty, desire to present for your acceptance, this
+Solaris album, as a testimonial of their loving admiration; as a token
+of their absolute confidence in the wisdom of your leadership. This
+album contains photographs of all the members of the company. Each
+picture is endorsed with the signature and with the place and date of
+birth of the individual. They are arranged and indexed in alphabetical
+order. Our people were guided to a choice of this gift because they were
+so profoundly impressed with the importance of the experiment
+represented by this farm. Because they felt so confident that its
+assured success would sound the key-note of a general movement for the
+emancipation and elevation of humanity by the gradual introduction of
+wiser and better social and industrial methods, which would eventually
+result in the banishment of poverty and crime.
+
+"Taking this view of the future, we may be pardoned for prophesying that
+fifty years hence, this album of the pioneers of the movement, will
+possess a greatly enhanced historical value. We trust, therefore, that
+this possibility may make our gift more acceptable. I now ask you to
+receive it in the spirit of love which inspired its donation. In
+conclusion allow me to assure you that under all circumstances, you can
+count on the life-long friendship and loyalty of the people whose
+pictures will greet you, as the years come and go, whenever you may feel
+inclined to look through the picture laden pages of Solaris Album."
+
+As George Gerrish concluded his speech, a swelling storm of cheers for
+Fillmore Flagg burst from the ranks of the square. Again and again came
+the repeated roar of cheers, accompanied by the roll of the drums, and a
+circling cloud of waving handkerchiefs, hats and flags. Fillmore Flagg,
+inspired by the enthusiasm and excitement of his cherished people,
+looked very handsome and heroic as he stood with his manly figure erect,
+his noble head thrown back, his eyes shining with emotion, the album
+held firmly in his right hand. Bowing and smiling, he turned gracefully
+to face the greetings from the ranks of familiar faces, which were
+swaying with joy and shouting so wildly. Waiting for a few moments, he
+then raised his left hand, with the open palm outward, as a signal for
+silence. The tumult was stilled as if by magic.
+
+"People of Solaris!" he said; his clear, strong voice vibrating with
+emotion: "To you, through your worthy president and your able committee,
+with a grateful heart, I return my thanks for this most unexpected and
+charming reception; for this beautiful and appropriate gift, which I
+prize much more than words can tell. Believe me when I say that I most
+thoroughly appreciate the noble sentiments which inspired its selection.
+I am delighted with the happy significance of this demonstration, as a
+prophecy of the complete success of this experimental farm. This
+exhibition of your loyalty to me and to Solaris Farm, fills my heart
+with emotions of grateful joy. You have made me very proud and very
+happy! I shall never forget the encouragement of your enthusiastic
+support, which has given me renewed vigor and strength to carry forward
+the work. I now pledge to you my sacred word of honor that the golden
+memories of this glorious occasion, and the possession of this precious
+album, shall henceforth inspire me to still greater efforts for the
+success of our cherished enterprise, which means so much for us, so much
+more for humanity.
+
+"I am willing to acknowledge without a moment's hesitation, that your
+surprise for me was skillfully planned; that its execution was
+charmingly successful! I wish to return the compliment. I have a
+surprise in store for you! The present moment is propitious; I will
+disclose it! I am the bearer of a gift for you--a gift wisely chosen,
+which is in every way worthy of your admiration and appreciation. A gift
+of such exceeding value, that I cannot speak of it without becoming
+eloquent. Gold and silver cannot measure its worth to you! Securely
+packed in strong cases, which are now lodged in our express office, is a
+rare collection of books. This collection contains ten complete sets of
+the best text books for each one of the classified sciences, together
+with the vocabularies, dictionaries, charts and drawings belonging
+thereto. Accompanying each set is a miscellaneous collection of the best
+works written descriptively on that particular science. These books are
+intensely interesting and very valuable, although they are not classed
+as text books. Altogether the five hundred volumes form the finest and
+most comprehensive collection of scientific works I have ever seen. They
+are the most useful and expensive books published that can be found in
+the whole range of scientific literature. They contain the knowledge we
+most need in our enterprise, to enable us as an associated body of
+people to do better, wiser and more effective co-operative thinking and
+working.
+
+"To meet and satisfy our needs in this direction, these books were
+chosen as a gift to our library, by Miss Fern Fenwick, the beautiful and
+generous patroness of Solaris Farm. She desires me to emphasize her wish
+that you abstain from any public expression of thanks. In lieu thereof,
+she prefers to accept the measure of your diligence and enthusiasm in
+acquiring the stores of knowledge thus offered, as the most appropriate
+and satisfactory measure of your gratitude to her for the gift.
+
+"To master the contents of these books, is to master the sum of human
+knowledge in the various departments of science. With this mastery there
+will come to us the largest understanding, and the clearest obtainable
+conception of our relations toward each other, and to the universe
+around us. Thus enlightened, we may discover that ignorance is a sin;
+that as responsible entities in the great pulsing sea of cosmic life,
+with more or less power to help or hinder the purpose and perfect
+unfoldment of all life--we cannot afford to be selfish, sinful or cruel
+in our actions toward each other, or toward any other form of cosmic
+life. Having once acquired these convictions, with this most important
+fund of information, we possess the key which will unlock the mystery of
+the action and reaction of the potent and unseen forces of nature, which
+affect us as individuals, as they do the earth, air and water, the
+elements so necessary to our existence. The restless, never-satisfied,
+questioning spirit, born with every human soul, is the expression of a
+divine purpose! To gratify this insatiable desire for more knowledge, is
+to comply with the demands of a wise cosmic law. By so doing, we enter
+into the enjoyment of a never-failing source of perpetual delight. We
+are crowned with a happiness of the purest type!
+
+"In viewing this vast field of knowledge, spread so invitingly before
+us; in anticipating the joy we may glean therefrom; we catch a glimpse
+of the exceeding richness of the boon of immortality, which, as a
+spiritual heritage, is waiting for us. We begin slowly to understand
+ourselves as the repositories of infinite possibilities!--as cosmic
+units of the larger Cosmos--as a perfect microcosm of the macrocosm!
+With feelings of awe-inspiring adoration, we reflect that we may know
+ourselves as individuals, only as the extent of our knowledge of the
+universe around us is increased. Responding to the law of action and
+reaction, the more we reflect, the greater becomes our desire to know
+more of ourselves. Always more! Ever more! Never quite satisfied!
+Fortunately, the immortality of the wisdom loving human soul embraces
+all time, and all eternity! Therefore, through the law of eternal
+progression, we may naturally and rightfully aspire to the acquirement
+of all possible knowledge. In cultivating these aspirations, we may rest
+assured that we shall constantly gain new conceptions and new meanings
+for the word 'Heaven.'
+
+"In conclusion, my friends and co-workers, my brothers and sisters, let
+us congratulate ourselves as the fortunate recipients of this priceless
+gift: let us endeavor to show our appreciation by a speedy mastery of
+the contents of these valuable books. Let us approach the work, full of
+joyful anticipation and enthusiasm, with the proud consciousness that we
+are invited guests to a great feast of learning. Let us strive in every
+way to make study thoroughly enjoyable. Let us make it one long holiday
+in honor of the Goddess of Wisdom! One grand harvest-home of our
+gathering of the golden fruit from the tree of knowledge. Let us be as
+earnest as we are enthusiastic--let us be thorough, and withal
+methodical and systematic.
+
+"The ten sets of text-books, suggest the formation of the membership of
+the company into that number of scientific clubs; which I recommend.
+This division would give fifty adults as the average membership of each
+club. We have at least ten available rooms large enough to accommodate
+clubs of that size. Each club should begin with the primary text-book,
+which should be read, discussed, analyzed and re-read until clearly
+understood by the entire class. The club to proceed in the same order
+with the next of the series, until all are thoroughly mastered. I will
+volunteer to join the club to which is assigned that scientific study
+which may prove the most difficult, least inviting and most unpopular.
+By the force of a united purpose, working co-operatively together, we
+shall soon develop a capacity for severe mental labor, which will make
+the mastery of the remainder of the course a constant source of
+pleasure. What we need in the way of equipment, chemicals, instruments,
+etc., can be easily and quickly secured.
+
+"George and Gertrude Gerrish will have an advisory superintendence over
+the work of all the clubs. Years of experience in teaching have prepared
+them to quickly untangle the mixed quantities or conditions that may
+confront us, and thus skillfully turn our difficulties into delights.
+
+"With this general plan for conducting our literary festival, I will
+leave the subject with you for consideration at the proper time.
+
+"I feel conscious that under the circumstances, I owe you an apology for
+having so trespassed upon your patience and good nature, by the length
+of my remarks. Therefore I desire to acknowledge my thrice doubled
+appreciation of your manifest interest, attention and sympathy, which
+have both flattered and encouraged me greatly.
+
+"I will now close by thanking you, through your worthy officers, for
+this cordial and beautiful reception; also for the opportunity to
+address you on a subject in which I am so deeply interested."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+FORMATION OF POPULAR SCIENCE CLUBS.
+
+
+As the days passed after the reception, the new books were unpacked by
+Fillmore Flagg, assisted by George Gerrish. As soon as possible they
+were arranged and placed on appropriate shelves in each one of the ten
+rooms prepared for them. Large steel engravings in plain oak frames, of
+all the authors, together with the maps and charts, all neatly glazed
+and mounted, adorned the walls of the particular room to which they
+belonged, adding greatly to the attractiveness of the general
+collection. As the work progressed, the keen interest displayed by all
+members of the farm company seemed to increase. They could talk of
+nothing else; they were eagerly and almost impatiently waiting for the
+announcement of the formation of the clubs. Accordingly therefore, as
+soon as the rooms were ready, a complete schedule of the books in each
+series was made; these schedules being numbered from one to ten, to
+indicate the series to which they belonged. They were printed and
+distributed among the members of the company, with a request that one
+week later, each member should return two of the numbered schedules
+marked as first and second choice of the studies they desired to take
+up. By this method of voluntary selection, the clubs were quickly and
+easily formed, without friction or embarassment. Well stimulated by an
+ever increasing fund of interest and enthusiastic ambition, the club
+members, impressed with the wisdom of Fillmore Flagg's advice, promptly
+took up the class work of the study chosen, eager to secure a generous
+share of the educational benefits to be dispensed at the board of this
+great literary feast, to which they had been so kindly invited as
+especially selected guests. With some misgivings as to the final result,
+Fillmore Flagg carefully watched the preliminary club work while yet in
+its organic stage. He had been somewhat doubtful of the ability of the
+average club member, who was not a trained student, to acquire a
+sufficient interest in such abstract subjects, with which to develop the
+mental force so necessary in order to digest and finally master them.
+However, much to his surprise and delight, at the very threshold of the
+work, the display of energy, ability and mental acuteness on the part of
+the entire club membership, dispelled the last remaining doubt from his
+mind; he was convinced of the practicability and final success of the
+course.
+
+In carefully analyzing the subject, he perceived that they were
+quickened by the momentum of a united co-operative effort; also that
+they were--perhaps subconsciously--pushed forward by a great number of
+new ideas concerning the desirability of at once acquiring a larger
+store of scientific lore, as a necessary and more complete equipment for
+the practical duties of the battle of life. Dominant and central among
+these ideas, was the one which so temptingly promised an increased
+knowledge of themselves as individuals, by the mastery of the broad and
+hitherto unexplored field of explanatory science; which might lead to a
+better solution of the mystery of environmental conditions. Finally,
+they were no doubt inspired strongly by a firm conviction that, once
+armed with a thorough scientific education, they would possess an
+additional power to aid in making Solaris Farm a speedier and more
+pronounced success.
+
+Fillmore Flagg accepted this demonstration of the combined ability of
+the farm people to conquer the most difficult problems of science,
+without the advantage of previous training, as an added proof that the
+ideas and methods of the model farm were most assuredly in conjunctive
+harmony with planetary evolution; therefore with the great force of
+combined co-operative mental effort to push it forward, still more
+surprising results might reasonably be expected, when these efforts were
+more wisely and skillfully directed along lines indicated by nature as
+lines of the least possible resistance. A realization of these
+expectations would seem to suggest that the key to future success in all
+educational work lies in discovering systems, methods, associations and
+surroundings for the students, which are nearest in conjunctive harmony
+with natural evolution, consequently along a pathway presenting the
+fewest possible obstacles.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+A TWENTIETH CENTURY LOVE LETTER.
+
+
+"All the world loves a lover!" is a trite but beautiful saying, which
+touches a responsive chord in the great heart of humanity! We cannot
+remain indifferent to the magnetic effect of the strong tide of his
+eloquent and impetuous wooing. Nor can we withhold a sympathetic desire
+to aid him in reaching the goal of success--to win the precious prize.
+Quite as naturally, we are intensely and delightfully interested in the
+birth, the unfoldment, and the blossoming of every individual entity in
+the great ocean of cosmic life. Instinctively we recognize that love is
+life. One could not exist without the other. Old and young alike
+understand the potency of the spell which binds the lover; which holds
+him for unconscious periods of time, absorbed in dreamy contemplation of
+his ecstatic devotion to the heroic virtues, graces, accomplishments and
+attributes of the charming woman, whom his heart has chosen to represent
+all things in the universe which have meaning and worth for him. Through
+this adorable woman, the crowned and glorified object of his
+all-absorbing love, he can best respond to the rythmic throbbing of all
+cosmic life. In this superior state of beautiful transfiguration, he
+forgets self, and lives for long happy months in the rare upper strata
+of real unselfishness. Under the powerful influence of pure love, the
+highest and holiest emotion which stirs, controls and makes better the
+life of every mortal; lost in the blissful alembic of this great
+chemical change, the lover recognizes himself in every demonstration of
+universal life around him. He also becomes aware, from some inner
+consciousness, of the extent to which the emotional nature controls and
+molds the individual; that among the anabolic emotions, love is the
+queen of the emotional empire; that the touch of her magical scepter is
+so potent and penetrating as to render the individual receptive and
+responsive to all of the ennobling, purifying, progressive and exalting
+elements of the universe: but, on the other hand, what is still more
+marvelous: that the same touch renders the individual negative to the
+inflowing currents from all of the baser elements. With this awareness
+comes the conviction that the Empire of Love is boundless and limitless;
+that it permeates and glorifies the vast ocean of infinity! On the
+strong, swift tide of this shoreless ocean, the lover floats, secure,
+serene and confident, on his voyage toward destiny's most distant port.
+
+The following letter from Fillmore Flagg to Fern Fenwick, will serve in
+some measure to illustrate the power of love to change, expand, energize
+and spiritualize the entire character of the lover: to purify and
+strengthen the moral disposition of our hero, to eliminate from it all
+tendency to selfishness; to endow him with a broader wisdom, with higher
+and nobler aspirations of life; to fit him more perfectly to carry
+forward his great work for humanity at Solaris Farm.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"My Darling Fern: Noblest, purest and most beautiful of women! Like the
+rose to the sunlight, like the needle to the pole, my heart turns in
+adoration to you. My own true love! My peerless one! My guiding star in
+love's azure sky! My soul swells and sings with its full tide of joy, as
+willing fingers attempt to put in words the thoughts born of my great
+love for you. What miracle have you wrought for me, my precious one,
+that I am so happy? The earth, the sky, the verdant woods, the grand
+mountains, the green meadows, the shady nooks, the babbling brooks;--all
+thrill my innermost being with a thousand new charms! The bees, the
+birds, the flowers and trees as they bend or sigh to the passing breeze;
+the solemn stillness of majestic night; the deep blue sea, overarched by
+nature's matchless crown of diamonds, a countless multitude of brilliant
+stars, in the silvery moonlight of love--how eloquent their song! All
+things in nature speak to me; they bless you for loving me! In the halo
+of that blessing, as I think of you, I am transfigured by a newly-born
+ecstacy! To breathe, to exist, is to realize the superlative degree of
+my exquisite happiness! Hidden away from the clouds and storms of life,
+by the golden mist which veils the measureless sea of love, infinite
+love, I sail serene and confident upon its heaving tide. Gently rocked
+by the lapping lullaby of the rythmical waves of paradise, I fearlessly
+float. I care not for time nor tide, nor distant port of a future
+destiny! Entranced by the music of love's beautiful sea, I dream love's
+dream alone with myself, the outer world shut away--swallowed up by the
+overwhelming tide of my sweet and blissful contentment.
+
+"From such hours of exaltation, I am sometimes rudely awakened by a
+monster reflex wave of self-examination. Ah, dear heart! It is then that
+I ask of my soul: What am I? What have I done? What sweet guardian
+spirit guides my life, that I should be made so exceedingly happy by the
+priceless love of such a beautiful woman? Am I worthy of such a
+blessing? Can I properly appreciate the great good fortune of being
+fondly and truly loved by such a peerless woman, who is so dear to me,
+so noble, so good, so true; so pure, so bright, so beautiful; so truly
+wise, so eloquent; in every way so well fitted by birth, wealth, and
+education to reign as queen in the most brilliant and most exclusive
+circles of the social world; even in the grandly beautiful city of
+Washington, where the princes and potentates of the earth, lords of
+other lands, of wealth and fashion of high degree, vie with each other
+and with the republic's most honored statesmen, for one smile, one look
+of recognition from this marvelous woman, who is everywhere recognized
+as the dominant center of attraction? Oh, the wonder of it! This is she
+who holds the key to my heart!
+
+"Ah, my adored one! As this picture of your life fills my mind, I wonder
+what would happen to me under such circumstances, with any other woman
+in your place. I know I should be both furiously jealous and foolishly
+despondent: but with you, the very apotheosis of truth and
+honesty!--Impossible! It could not be: so base a thought would perish
+with the thinking! I know you are as true as steel. The pure soul which
+shines from your eyes has spoken to mine. I am content; I fear not; I
+know that the compass of your love is constancy.
+
+"Oh! my darling! Chosen one of my soul! How great is the mystery of
+love! How priceless the blessing it brings to the lover! How brilliant
+the constellation, how spiritualizing the multitude of new thoughts to
+which it gives birth! How I pity those who have not been touched and
+quickened by the life-giving power of love! How sad and desolate is the
+pathway of the soul so unfortunate as to be shut away from the sunshine
+of love! Better, far better, to die of love! To die of love is to live
+by it! It is to have discovered the great deeps of the infinite: for
+love itself is a revelation of the infinite! The aspiration of love is
+the inspiration of paradise. Who can understand the significance, or the
+great mystery of immortality, or the fulness of the promise of eternal
+happiness to be gained by a life of endless progression, without first
+having lived a life of love? The smile of love is the rainbow of life!
+Every tender emotion of love is a prayer, pure and potent, for a higher
+life.
+
+"The truth of these things, my sweet heart, I realize more fully each
+day. I feel and know that every link in the chain of eternal existence,
+is a link of love! My love for you has been for me a spiritual blessing
+indeed! It has opened the eyes of my soul, so that I may perceive the
+significance of the miracle of love, which must precede the miracle of
+birth, as the necessary beginning of the unfoldment of the individual up
+to his highest estate--the repository of infinite possibilities. Love,
+then, my dear one, is the highest and holiest attribute of the human
+soul: that inspiring, controlling force, which wings the soul to such
+sublime spiritual heights, as are far above and beyond the storms of
+common passions, and the evil influences of the baser emotions.
+
+"Ah! sweetheart of mine! How much do I owe to the uplifting power of
+love! I question and wonder! When its divine radiance shines upon me,
+through the glory of your beautiful eyes, I am led up the steep
+acclivities of the mountain of wisdom by a new pathway. I perceive that
+as the oracle of life, love is the potency which crowns woman with that
+entrancing aura of soft, sweet, melting force, which for ages has
+proclaimed her the greatest and most fascinating mystery of the
+universe! I also perceive that, responding to the stimulant of this
+potential aura, I am thrilled, spiritualized, energized, encouraged and
+more perfectly fitted to perform whatever difficult or heroic work the
+needs of our farm people may demand. Fortunate for me was the day when
+Fennimore Fenwick left you heir to his plans for redeeming the lives of
+these people! Fortunate indeed, was the time when I was chosen by you to
+discover, select and institute Solaris Farm, with the broad humanitarian
+work which its success represents. Each memory of this farm; of my every
+thought, plan or deed for its improvement: of its people; of their
+lives, health, and happiness; of their sublime confidence in me, of the
+prompt obedience they so cheerfully render to my slightest command; of
+the peculiar pride expressed by the appreciation of their importance as
+working units of the farm, all united, harmoniously blended, in one
+perfected co-operative mass;--is a memory made more delightfully
+permanent by the wonderful light of your love!
+
+"Never before have I been so busy or so blessed! Every emotion of pride,
+enthusiasm, ambition, joy or love, which stirs the hearts and quickens
+the pulse of these people, who are working with me for one object so
+faithfully, so earnestly; through the magnetic halo of your love, is
+reflected upon me with redoubled intensity. In the strong current of
+this electrical stream of power, I am quickened, strengthened and
+prepared to do better thinking and more effective work for the perfect
+development of the farm.
+
+"At this point, dear Fern, I must mention an item of farm news, in which
+I am sure you will be greatly interested. We have arranged to have our
+arbor-day celebration, or tree planting festival, on the 10th day of the
+month of March in each year, as the season, in this climate most
+suitable for the work. For some months past, for the purpose of exciting
+in the minds of our people a keener interest, I have been giving a
+course of lectures on the general subject of forestry. These lectures
+have proved so attractive, that as a result, they have been
+exceptionally well attended by both old and young. The amount of
+interest displayed by my hearers, is a continual source of surprise and
+delight to me. Early in the course, this extraordinary interest
+culminated in such a perfect shower of questions in regard to the
+details of the subject, that I was obliged to refer my questioners to
+the various books written on the subject, as most completely and
+satisfactorily answering the multitude of their queries. As a
+consequence, the botany club has had a great boom. While every book in
+the library on forestry, or the care and culture of plants and trees,
+including those in a full series of annual reports from the Department
+of Agriculture, is in constant use. You would be delighted, my dearest,
+could you note the readiness of even the children to grasp the idea, to
+understand the immensity of the benefits which may be conferred on
+future generations by our systematically directed efforts in tree
+planting here on this farm. Both young and old alike, are quick to
+appreciate the important fact that while we are enjoying a holiday, to
+which we may look forward each year with increasing delight; we are at
+the same time furnishing the world with an object lesson as to the
+practicability and great value of the good work which may be
+accomplished by all classes of agricultural people, in the general
+observance of such a festival.
+
+"The announcement of the good news that you are to visit the farm in
+time to attend our first arbor day celebration, on the tenth of next
+month, has made our people very happy. They are simply wild with delight
+at the prospect of seeing you so soon: of having an opportunity to thank
+you in person for the many favors you have so generously bestowed upon
+them. Hitherto they have admired and adored the beautiful and generous
+young patroness of Solaris Farm, through the medium of a life-size
+crayon portrait, made some months ago, from one of your recent
+photographs. Since then, this lovely shadow of the idol of my heart,
+adorned by a suitable frame, has occupied the post of honor, as the
+only picture on the walls of the library. The advent of such a charming
+picture, at once converted the library into the throne room of the
+village, where gathered daily, admiring throngs of our people to feast
+their eyes in silent worship at the shrine of this life-like shadow of
+your lovely face. In thus exposing this picture, so dear, so sacred to
+me, to the earnest and respectful admiration of our people without your
+knowledge or consent; I trust, Dear Heart, that I may not have outraged
+your sense of propriety in the slightest degree. It occurred to me that
+it would be just and right, also most fitting and proper that, as the
+patroness of the farm, your portrait should appear in the place it now
+occupies; that it would be the most appropriate method of linking your
+individuality, in the minds of our people, with the peculiar work and
+destiny of the farm. If you consider my action from this point of view,
+I am sure you will approve. Like some good fairy, the silent charm of
+your portrait has each day, each hour, wrought its perfect work in my
+life and in the lives of our people. It has proved a constant source of
+delight! An added talisman to insure the final success of our
+enterprise!
+
+"Ah, my good angel! my Princess Charming! At last comes the crowning
+thought which completes my wreath of happiness! It comes to me daily,
+again and again! It is this, Dear Heart; that every step toward the
+final and complete success of Solaris Farm, is an added link in the
+chain of a shining destiny which shall bind our lives more firmly
+together, until at last this beautiful chain of love shall have become
+proof against the dissolving power of the passing ages of an Eternity!
+
+"In conclusion, sweetheart, may a bright band of faithful guardian
+spirits, ever watchful, ever near, guide and guard you, the crowning
+treasure of my life, is the earnest prayer of
+
+            "Your devoted, loving and loyal,
+
+                        "FILLMORE FLAGG."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+THE REPLY.
+
+
+"MY DARLING FILLMORE: Words fail to express the happy effect of the
+pleasing emotions that arise as I muse and dream, build castles in the
+air and indulge myself, again and again, in the luxury of reading line
+by line, the glowing tributes of love in your marvelous letter. I am
+electrified by its wonderful logic, rythm and melody. Ah, my chosen one!
+So manly; so noble; so true! The witchery of your eloquence is a
+conquering force, that Cupid with his bow might well be proud of! My
+heart rejoices under the influence of its magical spell! I am so happy
+and so proud of you! The great deeps of my emotional nature have
+responded to the poetical sublimity of your charmingly expressed
+sentiments. They thrill my soul like the dawn of some glorious summer
+day; like the exquisite perfume of a sweet flower; like that sublimely
+sweet surprise which steals over the senses, while a fleecy veil of
+silvery mist, responding to the power of the advancing king of day,
+slowly rises and discloses the shoreless grandeur of that tidal mystery,
+the majestic, restless, billowy bosom of Old Ocean; like some grand
+symphony of masterful music, penetrating and resonant, with that
+mysterious potency which awakens every echo of the soul's musical
+possibilities! Yet, sweetheart, every word is charged with your personal
+magnetism; is stamped with your individuality; freighted with the wealth
+of your spiritual and intellectual development. In every line, sentence
+and paragraph, I recognize you as my ideal of a lover, the dearest and
+most noble of men!
+
+"In my retrospective moods, the cloud of memories, born of the incidents
+which have marked our past acquaintance, form a telescopic vista.
+Through this vista, examined in the crucible of much correspondence, the
+intimate association and the mutual friendship of many months duration,
+I perceive that I have discovered and have learned to appreciate the
+sterling worth of your character. Through this avenue I become conscious
+that you represent to me the superior nobility of true American genius;
+the highest and grandest type of manhood! Idealized as my hero, I place
+you in the front rank of America's dominant thinkers; a peer among
+peers, both potential and progressive--yet withal so modest, so free
+from dogmatism.
+
+"I seem to feel intuitively that you are standing at the very beginning
+of a new cycle in the history of our planet: a cycle in which symmetry
+of mind and power of brain, fix the standard by which nature selects the
+leaders she deems most worthy of ruling the destinies of her people. I
+feel that you have been measured by such a standard, and chosen as the
+instrument for the accomplishment of a special work of the utmost
+importance!
+
+"This bit of hero-worship on my part is due, no doubt, to the intensity
+of my devotion to our Republic; to the earnestness of my convictions in
+regard to its manifest destiny as a saving power--an uplifting
+force--among the nations of the earth. These growing convictions are
+emphasized by the keener perceptions of my spiritual nature, which
+declare that this almost resistless force which dominates our Republic,
+that may be likened to the world's storage battery, is due to the
+progressive power gained by the universal enlightenment of the American
+people as a mass. This important thought seems to emphasize the wisdom
+and the importance of universal education.
+
+"I must now refer to a matter mentioned in your letter, in which I am
+particularly interested. In declining to become jealous of the bevy of
+titled lords, who pay fawning court to my wealth and social position,
+here in Washington, you do yourself justice; while at the same time, you
+pay me the compliment of a lifetime! When compared with you, how puny
+and feeble are the princes and titled lords, made by kings and courts,
+in lands where selfishness reigns supreme at the expense of millions of
+unfortunate subjects! An impecunious host of these fortune-hunting lords
+swarm in the society of our large cities. With faded titles of doubtful
+value, as their only stock in trade, they fittingly represent the
+decaying nobility of passing monarchies. They are looking for victims!
+They become the highly honored guests of selfish, title-crazy,
+match-making mothers! Oh the pity of it! Oh the shame of it! How
+American girls, who are born to wealth, with all of the advantages which
+wealth may command, including the best education possible in this land
+of progressive liberty; who should love devotedly the vital principles
+of our democracy;--can be so dazzled by the false glitter of a title,
+that they deliberately choose to mate themselves (and their riches,)
+with such sorry specimens of lordliness; such brainless, nerveless
+bundles of selfishness, is something too monstrous for my comprehension!
+
+"Are these girls really Americans at heart? Do they represent the women
+of our land? Can they understand or appreciate the privilege as a
+birthright, of proudly taking an honored part in the coming motherhood
+of this great and progressive land of republican liberty; a republic
+which to day stands as the hope of the world? Is it possible that they
+can knowingly wish to become mothers of a feeble race of puny
+children--children who are cruelly bereft of moral, physical and
+intellectual vigor by the tainted heritage which, like some avenging
+nemesis, through the action of an inexorable law, surely follows the
+unfortunate offspring of lordling fathers, who are born as the very
+dregs from twenty generations of the vice and depravity of kingly
+courts?
+
+"My dear Fillmore, to these interrogatories I answer, No! A thousand
+times No! Ignorance! A shameful ignorance of the true object and purpose
+of human life, on the part of these misguided girls, is their only sin.
+They are well-nigh hopelessly ignorant of the significance, or even the
+existence, of the great basic truths of evolutionary life. They know not
+that each age in the series of evolution grows out of the preceding one;
+that each in its order is the parent of the next; that the same is true
+of each generation of people. In the midnight darkness of their
+ignorance, they are incapable of knowing that virtue inherently
+possesses the germ of perpetuity. They can neither understand nor heed
+the warning cry of history, which proves that crime and depravity have
+in themselves the seeds of natural death. They have never read
+history's tragic story of the total extinction of the royal houses of
+Capet, Valois, Tudor, Stuart and Bourbon;--a story which demonstrates so
+conclusively the avenging results that follow the crimes of royal
+fathers.
+
+"To redeem these girls from such dense ignorance; to rescue them from
+the thralldom of such a fashionable sin, which threatens to become a
+fad; to open their eyes to the horrible consequences which follow such
+misalliances, is a work so important as to demand the immediate
+attention and united effort of a host of America's patriot mothers.
+
+"Pardon me, dear Fillmore, for devoting so much space in my letter to
+this particular topic. I feel sure you will kindly excuse any excess of
+fervor which may have marked the expression of my indignation. Because
+you so well understand the intensity of my devotion to the broadly
+progressive principles of our matchless republic, you may, consequently,
+guess the full measure of my scorn for this foolish, title-hunting class
+of creatures who, like silly moths, blindly sacrifice themselves in
+folly's funereal flame. The bare idea of marriage to gain a foreign
+title has always been exceedingly repugnant to me. With passing years, I
+am each day more thankful that since my early childhood there has been
+buried deep in my heart, a determination that when the time came for me
+to select a husband, the only title of the one chosen should be the
+stamp of honor which marked him as a true type of an American citizen--a
+real American genius; a truly noble soul, perfectly and beautifully
+expressed by a harmonious combination of physical and intellectual
+development!
+
+"Fortunate the day for me when that lucky advertisement brought you to
+my side, as a trusty, capable co-worker, whom I have learned to
+respect, to admire and to love. My dreams have been realized. I have
+found my ideal. You may fearlessly trust in the absolute truth of your
+assertion that 'the compass of my love is constancy!'
+
+"Now my hero! My ideal of a gallant Knight of Most Excellent
+Agriculture, whose nodding plumes, of tassels of corn, artistically
+interwoven with splendid pompons of waving wheat, barley, oats and rye
+have so dazzled my eyes and charmed my heart; having chanted my song of
+love, I hasten to assure you that your last report concerning the
+administration of the affairs of the farm, has pleased me greatly. I
+think the progress achieved in so short a time, is truly marvelous! Only
+my Fillmore could have accomplished so much! I am full of curiosity
+about the details. When I come, you must be prepared to answer a host of
+questions; to go with me on many excursions of discovery before I shall
+have completed my tour of agricultural investigation.
+
+"I approve of the disposition you have made of my portrait. Of course my
+personal pride is gratified by the sincere admiration and praise it has
+excited. I am happy in the knowledge that it has proved so efficacious
+as a talisman of good fortune for the farm. I think I understand your
+reasons for the feeling that my individuality should be in some way
+directly interwoven with the destiny of the farm.
+
+"Reasoning from the peculiar environments which so affect our lives, I
+realize more fully each day that my personal interest in every step
+toward its final success, must necessarily be quite equal to your own.
+
+"I am delighted with the idea of being present at your first Arbor day
+celebration. I hope there is to be in the order of exercises an oration
+which you are to deliver. If so, I know you will not disappoint me! I
+am prepared to prophesy that you will do yourself justice, do credit to
+Solaris and at the same time you will cover the subject with a halo of
+glory. Such a result seems assured when I consider the extraordinary
+interest which was aroused by your lectures on forestry. This signal
+conquest of your eloquence has gratified my pride very much. I am
+strongly impressed with the vast importance of this tree-planting
+school, which you are about to institute at Solaris. The success which
+you have won in the preliminary work is so promising, that I am sure you
+have undertaken a task which is worthy of your genius. In my judgment,
+you have already demonstrated your ability to accomplish many wonderful
+things. Great opportunities are before you. By the force of your logic,
+by the earnestness of your eloquence, you will be able to instill and to
+permanently fix in the minds of our people--both parents and
+children--the true progressive principles of American citizenship. You
+will thus enable them to perceive the serious import of the
+responsibilities which, like a mantle of power, descends upon them, as
+the representative working units of this great republic. You can so
+inspire them that they will be eager and proud to take up with honor the
+burden of these responsibilities. You can so change and elevate the
+lives of these people and a multitude of others, that first they shall
+become masters of themselves; later, masters of the republic; through
+the controlling force, the imperial dominancy of scientifically
+developed, symmetrical minds; whose intellectual, ethical,
+inspirational, logical and constructive power, combined as an elevating
+agency, shall raise the republic of the future to still more commanding
+heights. To accomplish these things, is the glorious beginning of a
+great career! In visions of your life work, it comes to me that this
+preparatory work on the farm is but the introduction to a more important
+mission, in the vastly wider field of a near future. In this coming work
+we shall stand side by side. Hand in hand, with hearts united by the
+bonds of a supreme love, we shall go forth armed with the power to
+overcome and to conquer the great hosts of ignorance and selfishness
+which so hinder the world's progress.
+
+"Really, my true love, although this letter is so long, I cannot close
+it without again expressing my appreciation of your soul-satisfying
+letter; so laden with the fragrance, the benediction of your love; so
+potent with the charm of happiness for me. To its benign influence my
+heart responds by the awakening of the highest and best emotions of my
+spiritual nature. Written in clear, plain English, it appeals to me as a
+letter of such sterling intelligence as only my ideal of a lover could
+write. How different it is from the soft, sweet nonsense of fashionable
+fops; the effusive gush of poetical dudes.
+
+"Now, I must say to you Good bye, my sweetheart! Remember that waking or
+dreaming, I love you truly. Only you, so dear to me--you, so generous,
+so noble, so good. Bright are the links of love's golden chain which
+time cannot sever. Constancy, our love shall bless, now and forever. May
+the sweet guardian spirits who guide your footsteps, keep you safely
+until we meet again, is the ever-present thought which is inspired by
+love's whisper in the heart of your devoted,
+
+"FERN FENWICK."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+FERN FENWICK ARRIVES AT SOLARIS.
+
+
+Fern Fenwick, accompanied by Mrs. Bainbridge, arrived at Solaris on the
+afternoon of the third day previous to the tree-planting festival. When
+the train reached the station, they were met by Fillmore Flagg
+accompanied by George and Gertrude Gerrish, the committee representing
+the farm company. With this escort to the village, they were soon
+installed in a handsome suite of rooms, beautifully decorated and
+furnished for their reception.
+
+After a late luncheon, Fern Fenwick gave a private interview to Fillmore
+Flagg. During this interview, which lasted more than two hours, matters
+both of business and of love were discussed: love, however, claimed the
+lion's share of the time. Very soon, by mutual consent, the major part
+of the business was postponed until after the tour of the farm, planned
+for the following day, had been completed. Then with a sigh of relief,
+they resigned themselves to the sway of that potent charm of blending
+magnetic and spiritual auras, which so swiftly transports reunited
+lovers to a paradise of their own.
+
+In accordance with previous plans, the next day was spent by the
+visitors in driving about the farm. The first motor carriage was
+occupied by Mrs. Bainbridge accompanied by George and Gertrude Gerrish,
+Fillmore Flagg and Fern Fenwick following in another. Pursuing a
+carefully arranged program, all points of interest were visited; the
+barns and stables, herds and flocks, the meadows, the cotton and grain
+fields, poultry yards, dairy, apiary, gardens, mills, store-houses,
+packing-houses, factory buildings, the brick works and pottery, the
+clay-beds, stone-quarries, coal and other mines.
+
+This tour of inspection, which occupied nearly the whole day, proved
+very interesting to Fern Fenwick. With her note-book in hand, and her
+keen eyes on the alert to catch every salient point, she kept our hero
+busy answering a host of questions. It was a long, happy day for him! To
+sit so near her, to look into her smiling eyes, to listen to the musical
+tones of her voice, to answer her swiftly spoken questions, to respond
+to the pressure of her gloved hand upon his arm as she directed his
+attention to some particular object; all seemed to him such a delicious
+bit of experience, that he almost wished it might go on forever!
+
+In the evening the reception given in honor of the Patroness of the
+farm, was held in the large hall of education and amusement. In this
+hall, which was handsomely decorated for the event, the people of
+Solaris were assembled. They were a unit in eagerness to give expression
+to demonstrations of delight when, for the first time, they were
+permitted to greet the one they wished to honor: a woman whose name they
+reverenced as the title of the noblest guest they could ever hope to
+entertain. George and Gertrude Gerrish, with Mrs. Bainbridge, were
+already seated on the stage, when Fillmore Flagg appeared, escorting
+Fern Fenwick from the waiting room. Moved by one dominant impulse, the
+entire audience arose to receive her. The repeated cheers of welcome
+were intensified by the accompaniment of a fleecy cloud of waving
+handkerchiefs.
+
+Our heroine was well worthy the ovation: richly and artistically gowned,
+she was a perfect picture of loveliness! Her cheeks flushed with the
+excitement of such an unexpected demonstration, her beautiful eyes
+flashing with the inspiration of her wonderful enthusiasm, her perfect
+figure proudly erect with the grace and dignity of an all-conquering
+magnetic presence, she captured the hearts of the people even before she
+had opened her lovely lips to address them.
+
+Warned by a gesture from Fillmore, the cheering ceased and the audience
+became seated. He then introduced Fern Fenwick by a neat little speech
+which provoked another storm of applause more demonstrative than the
+first.
+
+When order was again restored, at a signal from George Gerrish the
+double quartet of mixed voices, which had been selected from the singers
+of the musical club, came forward and, in a style which reflected much
+credit on the club, gave a song of welcome composed for this particular
+reception, and entitled; "She comes, she comes, she comes to us; our
+wise and lovely patroness." This song, which created a real sensation,
+was followed by an eloquent address of welcome delivered by George
+Gerrish in his official capacity, as president of the company. His
+remarks were seconded and emphasized most vigorously by long continued
+demonstrations of approval from the assembled members.
+
+In response, Fern Fenwick replied at some length in her most charming
+manner. Turning to George Gerrish, she said:
+
+"To you, the president, and through you, to the officers, members and
+children of the company here assembled, I offer my sincere thanks for
+the honor conferred, and for the pleasure given to me by this delightful
+reception. The sentiments of kindly greeting, of keen appreciation, of
+admiring approval, so beautifully expressed in your address of welcome,
+have touched me deeply. I am so profoundly moved, that my heart
+overflows with grateful emotions! Equally charming, and even more
+gracious to me were the words and music of the song which your sweet
+singers have rendered so artistically. These testimonials have so
+wonderfully impressed me that I can not forget them! As the years come
+and go, I shall cherish the bright memories of this eventful evening, as
+added jewels with which to mark and adorn the shining links, interwoven
+with the chain of my experience in life. These memories shall also serve
+to strengthen my already intense interest in this most extraordinary
+farm. A farm with such a wide range of improvements; with such an
+imposing collection of large well constructed buildings; with so many
+profitable allied industries in the full tide of successful operation;
+with a general equipment so magnificent, that at every turn I am
+astonished and delighted. I now understand why and how you have
+succeeded in transforming the hated drudgery of farm labor into such a
+pleasant, desirable occupation.
+
+"Since the beginning of the enterprise, my interest in the work has been
+constantly stimulated by the detailed accounts contained in the full
+weekly reports furnished by your general manager. These reports from
+time to time, I have studied carefully. Therefore I came here expecting
+much. However, after my tour of inspection, I hasten to assure you, that
+I was not all prepared to find such an ideal farm, already in successful
+operation! A farm with proportions so generous, an equipment so
+complete, and a future so promising; that when I pause to contemplate
+the magical changes wrought upon it in the brief space of thirty
+months, I am filled with admiration for its wonder-working, epoch-making
+people! I consider it a coveted honor to be known as the patroness of
+such a grand institution. People of Solaris, I am happy to be thus
+identified with you. I am proud of you and your work! A work which shall
+yet cause millions to rejoice! You cannot guess; no one can even
+estimate, the exceeding value of this work as a shining example of what
+properly organized labor can accomplish. You have succeeded far beyond
+my expectations! Do not waver or turn aside for one moment! Go forward
+bravely; be strong and steadfast; be encouraged with the assurance that
+all times, I am ready and willing to assist you in every possible way!
+Success with her golden crown waits to reward you! All the world is
+watching and waiting for the victory, which you have already won.
+Therefore, in the name of humanity, I am justified here and now, in
+thanking you for this superb lesson in unselfish co-operation. This
+lesson in self evolution, which you have given to the world, is a result
+on your part as individuals, of a wise exercise of mutual trust and
+confidence in each other; reinforced by the combined industry, zeal,
+persistence and skill displayed in your noble efforts. By such efforts
+you have made the name of Solaris justly famous throughout the length
+and breadth of this Republic!
+
+"In conclusion, Mr. Chairman, and friends, allow me to again express my
+thanks for your greetings of welcome, and for every demonstration of
+loving appreciation which you have so generously showered upon me."
+
+While the hall still rang with the plaudits of a delighted people;
+before Fern Fenwick could move towards her seat, George and Gertrude
+Gerrish and Fillmore Flagg all hastened to her side, to offer
+congratulations on the eloquence and excellence of her impromptu
+address. To the observer, it was plainly evident that the effect of such
+a stirring speech on the assembled co-operators was unusually
+impressive. They seemed to be inspired with a deeper reverence and a
+more perfect loyalty of devotion for this remarkable woman, who had so
+charmed them by the power of her eloquence. Swayed by the intensity of
+this deep feeling which could not well express itself in noisy cheering;
+they eagerly pressed forward in a quiet orderly way toward the stage,
+where George Gerrish was waiting to introduce them individually to our
+heroine, the patroness of the farm. Smiling graciously as they
+approached and were presented, she took each one by the hand in such an
+earnest cordial manner, that all feelings of shyness or embarassment
+were quickly banished. After the exchange of a few words of pleasant
+greeting, they quietly returned to their seats. As the reception
+progressed, many of the members improved the brief moments in expressing
+their grateful appreciation, for the words of praise which she had so
+enthusiastically bestowed upon them, in a speech they could never
+forget.
+
+When all were again seated, George Gerrish announced that the program
+for the evening would close with three short selections, to be given by
+volunteer members from the ranks of the musical and dramatic clubs. With
+this part of the entertainment finished, before the people could be
+dismissed, Fern Fenwick arose to bid them good night, and to thank them
+for such a charming reception, which she pronounced "simply delightful!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+THE FESTIVAL.
+
+
+Fortunately for the tree-planters, the day of the celebration at
+Solaris, proved exceptionally fine! No one could resist the exhilarating
+tonic of such a perfect day! A day made more glorious by a cloudless
+expanse of blue sky, a flood of golden sunlight, and breezes, soft as
+the balmy breath of gentle spring could make them!
+
+The tools and the potted trees, each labeled with the name of the
+planter, were hauled in wagons from the nursery to the site of the
+future forest, where the ground had already been prepared to receive
+them.
+
+At nine o'clock in the morning the band in the public square began to
+play, as the signal for the people to assemble. At ten the procession
+was formed, ready to march to the planting grounds. First: the band
+under the leadership of Gilbert Gerrish. Second: the children in
+alternating fours of boys and girls. Third: the adults in the same
+order; followed by the carriages with the President, the Patroness, Mrs.
+Bainbridge, Fillmore Flagg and Gertrude Gerrish.
+
+Having reached the grounds, the procession was massed into a square of
+close columns. The ranks were divided into planting classes of twenty,
+with an instructor for each class. After the classification, the double
+quartet of mixed voices, sang a hymn to the forest; the assembly joining
+in the chorus. As the square broke up, the members of each class,
+carrying tools and plants, followed the teacher to the particular
+planting grounds prepared for them. At a given signal, three blasts from
+the bugle, the work began, and went merrily forward, with much vigor and
+a vast deal of lively chatter. In just twenty minutes, the planting was
+finished and the square reformed. The children altogether as a chorus,
+then gave "An Ode to Growing Trees," which they rendered so sweetly and
+so effectively, that they earned a great deal of well deserved praise.
+The order for the return march was sounded--the procession quickly
+re-formed and returned to the village in the same order in which it
+came.
+
+A twenty-minute band-concert, given in the large dancing pavillion in
+the center of the public square, came next, and closed the order of
+exercises for the forenoon.
+
+An intermission until one o'clock was declared.
+
+Promptly at one o'clock the people were again assembled in the great
+hall of education and amusement, to hear the oration. The hall itself
+was handsomely decorated for the occasion, with a profusion of flags and
+ribbons. The roomy platform was transformed into a garden of verdure, by
+a brilliant array of ferns, flowers, palms, potted plants and young
+trees. Seated near the center of the platform were Fern Fenwick, Mrs.
+Bainbridge, Gertrude Gerrish, Fillmore Flagg and George Gerrish. The
+latter, as the president of the farm company, in a few well chosen
+words, introduced General Manager Flagg, as the orator of the day.
+
+Inspired by the cheers which greeted him, happy in the presence of his
+beloved Fern; yet with all alert, and confident of his complete mastery
+of the subject; our hero never before seemed quite so handsome as when
+he began to speak.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+THE ORATION.
+
+
+"People of Solaris, I thank you for the honor of having been chosen as
+the orator, for this our first Arbor-day Celebration! I assure you, that
+I am both proud and happy to serve you in that capacity!
+
+"In the beginning, let us consider the art of tree-planting, from the
+stand-point of an acorn, as being a typical nut or tree-bearing seed,
+such as I now hold in my hand.
+
+"This tiny nut, with such a smooth hard shell of polished brown,
+contains a kernel with magical possibilities. Within this kernel,
+closely packed and safely cradled, lies the embryo oak. So small and so
+insignificant is this nut, that one may travel for months over land and
+sea, with the possible ancestor of a half-dozen future oak-forests
+snugly tucked away in some inside pocket. This, too, without ever once
+receiving a demand from the lynx-eyed custom officials, for the payment
+of either import or export duties upon it. Half way round the globe,
+from the spot occupied by its parent tree, this highly-polished,
+much-traveled nut, if given the proper conditions, will at once commence
+the mysterious transformation process, which marks the beginning of the
+life and growth of another oak tree. This growth, under favorable
+circumstances, may continue for the historical period of ten centuries.
+Ministering meanwhile, to the needs of forty passing generations of
+people. Reproducing itself, perhaps a million times in the aggregate, by
+the enormous annual crops of acorns it may have borne. What a history of
+marvels, is the history of such a growth! As it is with the oak, so it
+is in a large measure, with all other trees which are produced from
+seeds.
+
+"This fascinatingly mysterious process of passing from seed to
+plant,--from passive to active life, we have watched with keen interest
+and growing pleasure, as from week to week, in the seed beds and nursery
+rows of our tree-garden, it has steadily progressed, under the varying
+conditions of sunshine and storm. Having reached a suitable size for
+transplanting, we have this morning commenced the actual work of tree
+planting, by carefully placing the young trees in the proper soil and
+location, where they may complete the sturdy growth they have so well
+begun. The preparatory work, we began some months ago, when as
+individuals, we selected the three trees, of some one chosen variety,
+which we especially desired to plant in forest formation, on the
+occasion of this festival.
+
+"By the months of thoughtful care and attention which we have given to
+these trees, we have gained a personal interest in them which we cannot
+lose. In this initiative work, I am convinced that we have wisely
+established such a broad foundation of general interest in forestry and
+kindred topics, that sooner or later, it will lead us to a complete
+mastery of the whole subject. The individual interest thus established,
+will continue to expand until it embraces the entire tree-family of the
+world. By constantly adding to our stores of knowledge in this
+direction, we shall be surprised to find how much we have extended our
+field of pleasure. In the same ratio, there will come to us a
+corresponding increase of affection and appreciation for our
+benefactors, the trees; a solace in the sojourn of life, so generously
+supplied by Mother Nature.
+
+"The location of Solaris as an experimental tree-planting farm, is
+particularly fortunate. It possesses a soil and climate which will
+promote the perfect growth of more than one hundred different varieties
+of trees. Among these, we find a majority of the valuable timber and
+nut-bearing trees of the world. Consequently, a very wide field of
+experimentation awaits our efforts. Let us improve our splendid
+opportunities so industriously, that a wide spread interest in forestry,
+may follow and become firmly established in the minds of the people of
+our Republic.
+
+"By way of an introduction to the general subject, of the importance of
+trees, as an adjunct to the progress, welfare and civilization of
+mankind. I wish to relate to you the story of my first great lesson in
+the seductive lore of forestry.
+
+"Near the beginning of the last decade of the Nineteenth Century, in the
+year of 1893, it was my good fortune to visit the World's Columbian
+Exposition at Chicago. I was then a lad of fifteen years, full of boyish
+enthusiasm, in the enjoyment of my first vacation from the preparatory
+school, where I was being fitted for my collegiate course.
+
+"I was born and reared on my father's farm, on the broad rolling
+prairies of Nebraska; up to that time I had never been far from home; as
+a consequence my knowledge of growing trees was limited to the following
+fast-growing varieties, which were planted and cultivated by prairie
+farmers for fuel, fencing and storm-protection. I will name these
+varieties in the order of their value for fuel and timber. White ash,
+soft maple, cottonwood and white willow. At a later period I learned
+that perhaps with the exception of white ash, the timber furnished by
+these trees, is considered valueless, in the markets of the world.
+
+"Under such circumstances you may imagine my astonishment when I first
+beheld that wonderfully unique, Forestry Building; with its bristling
+array of tree-trunk flag poles. Try first to picture in your mind's eye,
+a building in the form of a parallelogram, large enough to afford two
+acres of floor-space; with the first story surrounded on every side by a
+wide, open veranda: with a full length second story one hundred feet
+wide, rising gracefully from the central roof of the first; altogether,
+completing a design of exterior so boldly rustic in its general effect,
+as to suggest the idea of trees and forests at every point; then, you
+may get the delightfully novel effect, which the architect conveyed to
+my mind as I approached this curiously fascinating structure. A closer
+inspection increased the rustic effect of the general design. The main
+outside walls, were composed of thousands of wide, bark-coated slabs,
+cut from the choice typical trees of our American forests.
+
+"The wide roof, was in itself an ideal creation; it was thickly covered
+with curving tiles of rough bark, in alternating layers of the varying
+kinds, which formed a picturesque combination redolent with the spicy
+resinous odors of birch, basswood, hemlock and fir.
+
+"Completely encircling the building, with feet firmly planted on its
+solid stone foundation, rising to the roof through the floor of the
+veranda at its outer edge, were the thickly planted supporting pillars.
+These pillars like a long line of watchful sentinels, were placed in
+trios. The two outside pillars of each trio, were only separated from
+the middle one by a few inches of space, and were as nearly as possible,
+ten inches in diameter. The one in the center was much larger and held
+the post of honor as the flag bearer of its triumvirate. By pushing its
+way through the roof it became a huge flag pole, fifty feet from base to
+tip, with a beautiful banner proudly waving from its ball crowned
+summit. These pillars, both large and small, were bark-coated below the
+roof. Each one had been carefully selected for its symmetrical
+straightness, as a representative tree from the different forests of the
+world. Altogether, they formed a most interesting collection, to which
+might well be devoted, many hours of admiring inspection, by every lover
+of trees.
+
+"A wide lattice work of bark-laden tree limbs, of a uniform size
+completed the charmingly rustic cornice, which, like some endless
+curtain seemed to hang suspended from the caves of this bark-thatched
+roof.
+
+"Having sufficiently studied the exterior beauties of this remarkable
+building, of such arborescent magnificence; let us mount the steps to
+the broad, breezy veranda. Pausing a moment to inhale the refreshing
+coolness of the crisp air; and to admire the wave curving sparkle of the
+blue waters of Lake Michigan, we then pass to the shining portal of
+richly colored, highly polished woods, which form the main entrance.
+Here, covering the entire available floor-space, piled high in splendid
+profusion; we behold the garnered riches from the forests of the world.
+
+"I shall not attempt to describe my varying emotions of wonder and
+delight, as I wandered for hours through a bewildering maze of the
+wonderful exhibits, which formed this unrivalled collection of choice
+woods. As I advanced, my admiration for its variety and extent continued
+to grow. I began to perceive that, spread out before me, was the
+opportunity of a life time, which, if properly utilized would prove for
+me the permanent foundation of an education on the subject of timber,
+trees and forestry products. With this realization came the resolve,
+that I would devote time enough to each exhibit, to permit me to examine
+it in detail, leisurely and carefully.
+
+"The separate exhibits from the States of the Union and from other
+nations, were skillfully classified and so artistically arranged, as to
+show in the most effective manner the lovely grain, color and finished
+beauty, of the different woods.
+
+"All the valuable timbers were represented by three specimens. The first
+and second, were polished planks displaying the grain-finish, of both
+radial and transverse sections. The third, a cross section or disc,
+showing the heart, body-wood, sap-wood and bark; the full size of the
+tree represented. These discs proved by far the most interesting part of
+the exhibit. To me they were a revelation! They at once introduced me to
+the individuality of the tree. I could read the history of its life as I
+scanned the ever-widening circle of annual rings, which, from center to
+circumference, marked the slow growth of ages, as the tree advanced from
+infancy to maturity.
+
+"By means of these polished discs, I could touch and become personally
+acquainted with the precious, the famous, and the historical trees of
+the world. The mighty teak and deodar from India. The giant mahogany
+from Central America. The olive of Palestine. The cedars of Lebanon. The
+ancient oaks of Dodona. The magnificent dye-wood and rosewood of
+Brazil. The majestic live-oak of Florida. The druidical-oaks of England.
+The smooth, elastic bamboo, which by its size and strength becomes so
+useful in house-building, in both China and Japan. The towering spruces
+and sugar pines of our Pacific Coast. The great elms of New England. The
+justly famous, white pines of Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. The
+wonderful spice-woods of Java and Ceylon. The curious soap and rubber
+trees of Brazil. The tall sugar maples and smooth, symmetrical beeches
+of New York. The great hemlocks of Pennsylvania. The stately cypress,
+the royal tulip tree, and the beautiful evergreen white holly, of our
+southern forests. The highly prized black-walnut of Tennessee and North
+Carolina. The fruitful, free-growing chestnut, so common all over the
+United States. Finally, that towering king of all trees, the matchless
+mammoth redwood of California.
+
+"These redwoods are such veritable giants in size, that the half disc
+displayed in the California Section, with its thick ring of bark on the
+rounding side uppermost, stood sixteen feet high. From the huge trunk of
+this tree came the accompanying plank of such extraordinary dimensions,
+that a placard proclaimed it the largest plank the world ever saw. This
+plank was five inches thick, twenty-five feet long and sixteen feet nine
+inches wide; containing about two thousand feet of lumber, board
+measure.
+
+"In the Brazilian Section I found a large disc, accompanied by a
+specimen branch, with the leaves, flowers and fruit of a most remarkable
+tree. To this tree, the world owes a debt of gratitude for its generous
+unfailing supply of a rich wholesome food. Almost every child through
+the sense of sight, touch and taste, is familiar with that peculiar,
+triangular-shaped, sharp-edged, black-coated nut of commerce, with such
+a delicious kernel, known as the brazil nut. Very few however, know
+anything of the tree which bears them, or how they are attached to the
+branches from which they are suspended. As it is a matter of such
+general interest to both old and young, I shall take the liberty of
+devoting a few moments to a brief description of this gigantic tree,
+which the botanist has named 'The Bertholletia Excelsa.'
+
+"These wonderful trees grow most abundantly in the valleys of the
+Amazons, and generally throughout tropical America. In size and beauty,
+they rank as monarchs of their native forests. They attain an average
+height of one hundred and thirty feet, having smooth cylindrical,
+beautifully proportioned bodies; which often have the astonishing
+diameter of fourteen feet, when measured fifty feet above the ground.
+Like columns in some vast cathedral, these majestic representatives of
+the vegetable kingdom, raise their massive trunks one hundred feet
+toward heaven, before they commence to branch out, and to form a medium
+sized, symmetrical top. At this height grow the flowers and fruits.
+
+"The fruits are globular, with a diameter of five or six inches. Each
+fruit contains within its black, woody, shell, from eighteen to
+twenty-five closely packed seeds or brazil-nuts. These fruits, as they
+ripen, fall from their lofty position. At the proper season they are
+collected, broken open and marketed by the Indians, who roam through
+these dark, gloomy, miasmatic forests. The extraordinary abundance of
+the crop may be measured by the fact, that one port alone on the Amazon
+River, exports annually more than fifty millions of these excellent
+nuts.
+
+"Brazil-nuts are largely eaten as a nutritious and palatable food, by a
+multitude of people in many lands. They yield a generous supply of fine
+bland oil, which is highly prized for use in cookery, and also for
+lubricating all kinds of delicate machinery.
+
+"The timber furnished by these fruitful and beautiful trees, is light
+and durable, easily worked, well adapted to the purpose of
+boat-building; especially canoes of the largest size. Indeed! I may add
+as a final tribute to these noble trees, that they are the peculiar
+product of the American Continent, of which it may well be proud! They
+have bodies so tall, so straight, so large, so symmetrical, so free from
+knots, and so easily dug out, that the largest ship used by the hardy
+and fearless old Vikings of the Eleventh Century, could easily have been
+fashioned from a single one!
+
+"In connection with the main exhibit in the Forestry Building itself, I
+visited and examined the magnificent and astonishing timber displays
+shown in the State buildings of California, Oregon, and Washington.
+These exhibits were in every way worthy of those three great states of
+the Pacific Coast; they also served to largely increase the
+preponderance of the exhibit from the United States as a whole, over
+that of all other nations combined. The demonstrated extent, variety and
+wealth of our timber supply, was a matter of profound astonishment to
+visitors from other lands; while at the same time these things were
+equally a source of surprise and pride to every citizen of the Republic
+who saw them.
+
+"After a most delightfully well spent week, devoted almost entirely to
+forestry productions, I was prepared to sum up my impressions of the
+significance and value of the knowledge I had gained in my first
+lesson. It was plain to me that the magnitude and importance of the
+subject, was but little understood or appreciated, by the average
+American citizen. I saw that our people were very much in need of some
+great object lesson like the forestry exhibit of the Columbian
+Exposition, to make them properly realize the immensity of our debt of
+gratitude to Mother Nature for her munificent gift of trees to mankind.
+
+"I shall now conclude my story of the Forestry Exposition, by naming
+from the exhibit the following, as a few of the many things of use and
+value, which we owe to our benefactors, the trees; things which are so
+necessary to our comfort and happiness, which in so many ways, affect
+the progress, welfare and civilization of the world's people.
+
+"Among the more important gifts from the trees I shall place lumber and
+shingles, used in the construction of houses, barns and all kinds of
+habitable or industrial buildings; bridges, boats, ships and sailing
+vessels of all kinds; furniture, fencing and a great variety of farming
+utensils. Under the head of fuel, I may mention fire-wood and charcoal.
+In the class of vehicles we have wagons and all kinds of carriages from
+the stage coach to the pullman palace car. Some kind of lumber or timber
+enters very largely into the construction of almost every kind of
+machinery. In the miscellaneous group we find wood-alcohol, dye-wood,
+medicinal barks, roots and galls; precious gums, resins and all of the
+spices; the various kinds of excelsior used for packing, bedding and
+upholstery; wood-pulp and paper, inlaid work, vegetable ivory, and
+cocoanut shells; the entire series of willow ware, and wooden, or
+hollow ware. In food products, we are confronted by a most astonishing
+array of edible sprouts, berries, delicious fruits and nutritious nuts,
+forming altogether a multitude of things which, in civilized life, we
+could not possibly do without.
+
+"In considering the impressions conveyed to our minds by growing trees,
+which inherently possess a sturdy vitality, that can resist the
+vicissitudes of passing ages; we instinctively recognize them as
+nature's noblest gift to man. As majestic monarchs, in the empire of
+plant life, they appeal to us as companions, which become dearer with
+the associations of each passing year, until love for them becomes a
+feeling almost akin to worship.
+
+"This worshipful feeling, no doubt, comes to us as a heritage from a
+remote ancestry. In the days of ancient story, groves of noble trees
+offered primitive man, nature's grandest and most appropriate
+cathedrals, for the celebration of his worshipful rites. Is it a matter
+of wonder, that he unhesitatingly accorded to them, the distinction of
+being sacred? The emotional nature of this primitive man was a mystery
+which he could neither understand nor control. Often, he suffered untold
+tortures from the agonizing perturbations to which it easily became a
+prey. Hidden in the deep shade of his sacred grove, in his happier
+moments, the sighing of each passing breeze through his leafy canopy,
+become to his untrained ear, the whispered blessing of nature's placated
+God! When the dark pall of the Storm King shrouded all things with a
+terrifying gloom, the restless moaning of such a mass of writhing
+boughs, lashed by the fury of the blast, became the angry shriek of the
+Demons of Destruction, which left him prostrate and trembling in the
+throes of a paroxysm of worshipful fear. Analyzed, these actions show
+the result of man's environment.
+
+"By the way of a contrast, and as a testimonial to the planetary growth
+of man's emotional nature, gained from the ages of progress; let us
+question modern man as he leans confidingly, in a contemplative mood,
+against the broad trunk of some giant of the forest. With uncovered
+head, he muses in silence; he senses a vague feeling of awe for this
+magnificent specimen of matured life in the vegetable world. With every
+sense attuned to the overtones and undertones, produced by the
+vibrations of nature's harp; he catches the rythmic song of the sappy
+currents, as they swiftly fly to feed the swelling cells, where the
+building energy of their tiny hearts of protoplasm, ceaselessly changes
+the elements of soil and sunlight, into the woody fibre of this mighty
+tree. How beautiful! How like the complicated mechanism of the human
+body! Wonderingly he questions! Can it be possible, that the pulsing
+energy of the protoplasmic life of the tree, is identical with that of
+man, and all other forms of cosmic life? Does each great throb of the
+planetary heart, re-energize and move in unison, the protoplasmic
+centers of all forms of life? Who shall say?
+
+"In discussing the peculiar fitness of our present organization, to deal
+effectually with the question of tree planting, we discover, that in the
+co-operative association of so many people, we possess a marked
+advantage over the small farmer, which enables us to treat large tracts
+of land as a single farm; by devoting all of the rough, stony ground,
+steep hill sides, unsightly gullies and areas of poor, gravelly soils,
+to the purposes of timber and fruit culture.
+
+"Harmoniously united, we are financially and intellectually stronger;
+less influenced or retarded by motives of selfishness and greed;
+surrounded by conditions of easy comfort; armed with skill by study and
+experience; and withal inspired by a knowledge of the great necessity
+for replacing our forests; we are exceptionally well prepared to carry
+forward this great work, so successfully and to such an extent, that a
+few decades hence our hill sides and mountains, shall be re-clothed with
+beautiful forests of much finer trees--all choice timber--vastly more
+valuable than the original stock.
+
+"By more systematic methods of terracing the steep hills; by close
+planting of the young trees, with varieties selected by reason of their
+value for lumber, timber, nuts and fruit; by a judicious thinning out of
+these young trees so soon as they have grown to a useful size; a
+profitable crop of timber may be secured each year, with a positive
+benefit to the remaining trees. This operation may be repeated many
+times, before a partial replanting becomes necessary. By an extended use
+of these methods, the excellence of the timber supply may be doubled,
+while the aggregate yield will be trebled. The landscape will be
+beautified and permanently changed. Barren, unprofitable hills, and
+rough unsightly mountain tracts, rejoicing in a new growth of beautiful
+verdure-clad trees, will become objects of general admiration; while at
+the same time, the value of these lands, as a source of wealth, will be
+increased a thousand fold.
+
+"As these forests continue to grow, the shade deepens, the store of
+retained moisture increases, perceptible changes in the climate are
+effected; the evils of flood, erosion and drought are checked; the soil
+made deeper and richer; the rainfall largely increased; the climatic
+conditions become more genial, and the cooling, drouth-dispelling rains
+become more frequent.
+
+"The interesting and beautiful process, by which these changes are
+accomplished, may be briefly stated as follows: With the growth of each
+year, the area of the leafy surfaces of these forest trees is enormously
+extended. Measured by the same increasing ratio, many additional
+thousands of tons of moisture are pumped up and given to the winds in
+the form of a fine vapor, by the tireless industry of these lovely
+leaves. This vapor is taken up by the clouds--nature's aerial
+reservoirs. Soon this treasure of waters thus accumulated, is restored
+to the thirsty earth by a largely increased rainfall. Autumnal frosts
+ripen and loosen each crop of leaves; they fall silently to the ground,
+where they quickly form a thick, soft carpet of ever increasing
+thickness. Through the action of shade and moisture, the under surface
+of this carpet becomes a layer of fine leaf mold, which in turn offers
+rich food for the sustenance of millions of tiny feeding rootlets from
+the trees of the forest. The closely interwoven fibre of these rootlets,
+everywhere forms a strong web for the carpet, which firmly holds in
+place the soft, porous, underlying soil, safely protecting it from the
+destructive erosion which, especially on the steeper slopes, swiftly
+follows the dashing violence of heavy rain storms. Gradually this leafy
+carpet grows in strength and thickness; like some great sponge it sucks
+up and retains the waters of the snows of winter, with those of the
+increased rain-fall of summer.
+
+"Thousands of mountain torrents, the beginnings of destructive floods,
+are thus checked, absorbed and shorn of their disintegrating energies.
+The garnered waters from this wonderful leafy sponge, slowly percolate
+through the soil, to reappear in a multitude of living springs of pure
+sparkling water. From these springs gently flow the tiny rivulets, which
+in turn become the full streams that gladden the plains and valleys
+throughout the long scorching months of summer.
+
+"By a close analysis of the beneficial results which follow the annual
+recurrence of these beautiful processes, we may form a correct estimate
+of the vast importance of this tree-planting labor, to which this day,
+we gladly offer our best energies and our best thought. We begin to
+perceive the magnitude of the blessing which may be conferred on
+mankind, in general and on the agriculturist in particular, by the
+continued work of covering our hills and mountains with valuable
+forests.
+
+"We have discovered from nature the secret of a power that shall enable
+us to control many of our environmental conditions. We hold the key to
+the solution of a great problem, which for the past quarter of a
+century, has puzzled the brightest minds and best thinkers among our
+statesmen. The problem of how best to control the devastating floods,
+which each year, with increasing power and violence, continue to destroy
+hundreds of lives and millions of dollars worth of property, on the
+farms and in the towns and cities throughout the river valleys of our
+broad land. For this growing terror, we hold the cure! With the
+completion of this system of forestry, the floods will disappear. The
+interests of our coastwise and inland commerce, will be greatly extended
+and benefited. Many rivers, with beds choked and obstructed by the
+unsightly rocks and debris deposited by the annual floods, and for the
+same reason, dry for many months in each year, will again become
+navigable. Perennial streams, fed by permanent mountain springs, will
+serve to keep these rivers with full channels throughout the year.
+
+"The clear water will be free from the lighter silt which now finds its
+way to the sea; slowly filling up the river-mouth harbor, and finally
+destroying the commerce of the city which depends upon it. In this way,
+every individual, child or adult, who plants a tree, aids directly in
+the restoring some distant seaport to its former commercial importance;
+and has proudly earned the right to be placed as an important working
+member, on the peoples' great 'Committee for Improvement of Rivers and
+Harbors.'
+
+"Tree-planting, persistent tree-planting, by all classes of agricultural
+people, offers the only means or hope of checking the wide-spread,
+calamity-producing floods and erosions, which commenced with the
+destruction of our mountain forests. The destructive process is
+accelerated with each passing year. Unchecked, it threatens, a few
+centuries hence, to rob us of all fertile soil; to reduce our hills and
+mountains to a dreary waste of bare, sun-scorched rocks: our plains and
+valleys, to uninhabitable deserts. United action is therefore
+imperative!
+
+"Other incentives, worthy of our attention, urge us to commence the
+work. By yielding even one-half of the area of our tillable lands to the
+needs of forestry, we have all the richest lands left in the remaining
+half. The productiveness and fertility of these lands is sure to be
+speedily doubled. The amount of labor required to produce the same crops
+from the diminished areas, will be reduced one-half. A most important
+consideration!
+
+"The third generation of people, after the planting of these forests,
+will gather from them, such an abundant harvest of nuts, fruits, and
+valuable timbers, as will more than repay the entire cost of the land
+and labor required to produce them; leaving a handsome surplus to be
+devoted to carrying forward the work on a still larger scale; in regions
+less promising and more remote, even within the borders of the arid
+lands. With this lesson before us, how can we hesitate or falter in our
+efforts to successfully carry forward this important work?
+
+"I wish now, to call your attention to the following facts regarding the
+farms and farmers of our Republic, which altogether offer additional
+incentives for the speedy adoption of co-operative farming on a scale
+large enough to admit of timber culture, as the only available source of
+relief. The significance of these facts has scarcely been considered, by
+those most deeply interested. The farming lands now owned or controlled
+by our agricultural people, represent the accumulated capital or savings
+of a life time; frequently of several generations of the same family.
+
+"A steady decline in the market values of all farm products during the
+past twenty-five years, has in the same ratio, affected the selling
+value of the farm to such an extent, that from forty to fifty per cent
+of its value at the commencement of the decline, has been swept away and
+lost to the farmer, from the credit side of his available resources.
+This alarming shrinkage, has in the aggregate, amounted to many
+millions, yes, billions of dollars! The financial distress which has
+followed, has correspondingly affected many other industries. It has
+been the real cause of the forced sale of many fine farms at such
+ruinously low prices, as to sacrifice at one blow, the savings of a
+life-time. Each sale of this character serves to depress the market
+value of all lands in that particular locality. In this way the disaster
+spreads and gathers additional force.
+
+"A very large number of farmers, who have not as yet been forced to sell
+their farms, have found themselves so financially cramped, as to be
+unable to secure the additional lands they had hoped and planned to
+purchase for their children. What is the result? A most abundant harvest
+of blasted hopes for the sons and daughters of our American farms!
+
+"Capital in the hands of shrewd people, is always on the alert, waiting
+for such opportunities for investment. These investors through capital
+wish to live without effort, upon the proceeds of the labor of others.
+They seem to understand clearly, that to own land, is to own the
+services of the people who must have access to the land in order to
+live. This is why a land monopoly is more to be feared than other kind.
+For this reason we may well be alarmed, as we note from time to time,
+the large tracts of land which are being purchased by wealthy
+individuals, foreign syndicates, home corporations and land monopolists
+generally, who are quietly operating, while prices are so abnormally
+low, to obtain such complete control of our valuable agricultural lands,
+as will enable them in the near future, by a concert of action, to raise
+prices to such a pitch, that practically they would then be beyond the
+reach of the ordinary farmer.
+
+"These shrewd, far-seeing monopolists, having obtained control of the
+lands in question, can dictate such rents to all applicants, as will
+barely enable them to live. As a matter of fact, it is quite probable
+that they would much prefer not to rent their lands, because they could
+save for their own pockets, the wages of a great many workers, for at
+least five months in each year, by placing five-thousand-acre-farms in
+charge of a superintendent; who with two assistants, could live on the
+farm, taking proper care of the stock, tools and machinery, throughout
+the year. During the seven busy months, beginning about the first of
+April, transient labor, of the homeless tramp order, could easily be
+procured to work by the day, week or month, as the needs of the farm
+might demand.
+
+"The growing competition for even this kind of uncertain employment,
+would tend constantly to reduce the wages. The danger from this source
+has been fully demonstrated during the past twenty-five years, by the
+adoption of this disposition of their holdings, on the part of a great
+number of large land owners. The success of the bonanza farm, has proved
+perniciously infectious. Our small farmers, already in financial
+distress, cannot hope to compete with such large farms, so recklessly
+cropped by the monopolist for the largest possible cash returns, without
+regard for the future condition of the soil. To double the capital
+invested in five years' time, is the only concern of the investor.
+Whatever the land will sell for thereafter, is only so much additional
+profit.
+
+"We cannot close our eyes to these warning facts. They foretell the
+coming whirlwind of disaster. We may be sure that, if these things are
+allowed to continue without opposition, long before the close of the
+twentieth century, our agricultural people will be reduced individually
+to the abject serfdom of a houseless, homeless day-laborer. At this
+time it is almost impossible for a majority of the sons and daughters of
+the farms of our Republic to obtain possession of enough land to enable
+them to follow in the footsteps of their parents, by devoting their
+lives to agricultural pursuits. Many of them have already entered the
+downward path of the unfortunate tenant. Many others have been forced to
+find employment in other pursuits.
+
+"You ask how can this coming disaster be averted? How can our people be
+saved from such a hopeless future?
+
+"I answer, by the farmers, united with those who wish to become farmers,
+coming together everywhere in force; by pooling their issues; by helping
+themselves; by organizing co-operative farms like this, armed with
+schools in which skilled workmen may be taught to successfully carry on
+profitable allied manufacturing industries. Monopolistic farms cannot
+then successfully compete. With demonstrations, such as we are making
+here to-day, springing up by hundreds and thousands in each county and
+state, during the next thirty years, what may we expect? The last
+remaining serf will have been emancipated. The hopeless tenant and the
+landless farmer can no longer be found. No one can be induced to toil,
+for owners of the monopolistic farm. The owners will not and cannot work
+themselves. The experience of a few unprofitable years will urge them to
+sell their lands to the co-operators at such prices as they may be
+inclined to offer. The victory will be ours. A glorious victory truly!
+But, we must not expect to gain this victory without a severe struggle.
+In the earlier stages of the movement, the monopolist will soon
+recognize the co-operative farm as an enemy which must be fought to the
+bitter end, must be stamped out. To this end they will strive in every
+way to prevent us from obtaining possession of desirable lands.
+
+"This determined opposition we must expect and be prepared to meet.
+Forestry will help us to another solution of the problem. As the
+tree-planting farms continue to multiply, the increased rainfall will
+cause the area of tillable lands, to gradually extend beyond the borders
+of the arid lands. Therefore in case of necessity, we may turn to these
+arid lands for relief. In such an event, the question of forestry
+becomes an important factor.
+
+"By referring to the tenth annual report of the director of the U. S.
+Geological Survey, we learn that the arid regions of the United States,
+comprise the astonishing area of one million, three hundred thousand
+square miles. This immense region contains more than one-third of all
+our lands; a territory much larger than that of the thirteen original
+states combined. North and south, it stretches for hundreds of miles on
+either side of the Rocky Mountain Range, that great backbone and
+water-shed of our Continent. On the west, it covers nearly all of the
+surface of that vast, broken and irregular basin, lying between the
+Rocky and Sierra Nevada Mountains. On the east, it occupies that
+extended and peculiar domain of high plateaus, treeless plains and
+alkali barrens, known as the Great American Desert.
+
+"From this broad expanse of arid lands, in accordance with the
+statements of the survey officials, we may choose an area of one hundred
+and fifty thousand square miles of irrigable lands; that is lands which
+may be restored to productive fertility, by means of irrigating ditches
+along the valleys, and by building great catch basins, near the head
+waters of a multitude of mountain streams, in which may be conserved,
+the wasting waters of melting snows and those of the heavy mountain
+rainfalls combined. At this point we may mention incidentally, that this
+area of irrigable lands could be largely increased, by covering the
+available slopes of the Rocky Mountains with dense forests of fine
+timber. With this accomplished, the annual rainfall would be doubled,
+while the necessary conditions would be established, which, a few
+decades hence might yield an annual crop of valuable timber, that would
+soon repay the entire cost of planting and culture.
+
+"In addition to the last named increase, we may add an area of lands
+equal in size to the state of Illinois, which are beyond the reach of
+irrigating streams. We find these lands along the eastern foothills of
+the Rocky Mountains, and around the borders of the Great American
+desert. They may easily be restored to fertility, by the skillfully
+applied labor of a legion of co-operative farms. At varying depths
+beneath these lands, flow perennial streams of artesian water. By the
+spouting, life-giving waters of a vast number of artesian wells, a large
+proportion of these desert lands can be transformed to an agricultural
+paradise. The cost of these wells, would be but little more than the
+expense of the labor required to bore them.
+
+"But, says the objector, are not these mostly alkali lands? Of course
+they are! And for that reason offer greater possibilities of value! Can
+they be made to grow wheat, and thus increase the bread supply? Is a
+question that comes from the mouths of the world's great army of bread
+eaters, six hundred million strong. Just think of it!
+
+"For reasons which I shall state presently, I hope to be able to show
+why these alkali lands when properly irrigated, can be made to produce
+abundant crops of wheat.
+
+"For the past twenty years, leading men of science, who, alive to the
+importance of increasing the world's supply of wheat; have given close
+attention to statistics which seemed to indicate that the yield per
+acre, of the wheat fields in all countries, is steadily decreasing.
+Decreasing to such an extent as to make it probable, that in the near
+future, the yield on a large proportion of these lands, will become too
+meagre to pay the cost of cultivation. A long series of carefully
+conducted experiments demonstrated the truth of these alarming
+statistics.
+
+"This discovery led to a general search for some cheap, available,
+chemical, compound, which might restore these worn out wheat lands to
+their former productiveness.
+
+"In an address, delivered at Bristol, England, near the close of the
+nineteenth century, by Professor William Crookes, president of the
+British Association for the advancement of science; he says; 'Wheat
+pre-eminently demands as a dominant manure, nitrogen fixed in the form
+of ammonia or nitric acid. Many years of experimentation with nitrate of
+soda, or Chili salt-petre, have proved it to be the most concentrated
+form of nitrogenous food demanded by growing wheat. This substance
+occurs native, over a narrow band of the plain of Tamarugal, in the
+northern province of Chili, between the Andes and the coast hills. In
+this rainless district for countless ages, the continuous fixation of
+atmospheric nitrogen by the soil, its conversion into nitrate by the
+slow transfiguration of billions of nitrifying organizations, its
+combination with soda, and the crystallization of the nitrate have been
+steadily proceeding, until the nitrate fields of Chili have become of
+vast importance, and promise to be of inestimably greater value in the
+future. The growing exports of nitrate from Chili at present, amount to
+about 1,200,000 tons annually.'
+
+"In carefully analyzing this lesson from the lips of Professor Crookes,
+we discover that the same peculiar climatic conditions which made a
+Chilian desert so valuable, have been continuously at work in our great
+American desert for a great many thousands of years.
+
+"For this reason, our uncounted acres of alkali lands, are so rich with
+stores of this valuable nitrogenous compound, that by proper treatment
+they may become the most valuable wheat-producing lands in the world.
+The desert shall become the source of abundance! Under the transforming
+influence of a generous water supply, forests shall spring up, and
+fields of waving grain shall flourish around the village homes of a
+happy, prosperous people! Altogether, we have an empire of these
+irrigable lands now worthless, awaiting the transforming labor of the
+homeless and landless, to restore them to productive fertility.
+
+"When thus restored, these lands, at the lowest estimate, will be worth
+the enormous sum of two billion, eight hundred and eighty million
+dollars, which in due time may be transferred to the credit side of the
+wealth account of the nation! Long before this available domain of such
+vast possibilities has been conquered and reclaimed, the longing desires
+of all who wish for land, and for agricultural lives, for themselves and
+their children, will have been most abundantly satisfied.
+
+"In looking over this broad field of possibilities spread so temptingly
+before us, we are able to discover the importance of the work of
+tree-planting, which now demands our attention. Strengthened by
+concerted action, encouraged by new ideas and better methods we become
+firm in our convictions, that it is an imperative duty for us to
+continue the good work. We must increase the number of our co-operative
+farms with their tree-planting schools, until, educated and moved by the
+force of so many demonstrations, a great majority of the people of this
+Republic shall demand, that the entire area of the range of the Rocky
+Mountains within our geographical limits, shall become a permanent,
+public park; with such a wealth of territory and variety of climate,
+such beauty of scenic grandeur and magnitude of picturesque proportions,
+as the world never saw before. This matchless reservation is to be
+devoted to the needs and uses of forestry, mining, the preservation of
+its great variety of natural curiosities, and of American Game.
+
+"In addition to this Pride-of-the-World-Park, the people shall also
+demand, that all of the most available portions of the mountains of the
+Pacific Coast Range, the Sierra Nevadas, the Alleghenies, the
+Adirondacks and the White Mountains, shall be reserved by the
+government, and set apart for the same uses and purposes.
+
+"With the passing of this magnificent domain of mountain territory to
+the permanent control of the government, would come the beginning of the
+great public forests; which would clothe with new beauty, cover and
+protect in the most useful manner, the principal water-sheds of our
+broad continental possessions. Thus increasing to a degree approaching
+perfection, the purity and abundance of the crystal flood, that shall
+flow from a countless multitude of new springs of living water. The
+volume of water from these springs, shall furnish a supply sufficient to
+maintain with full channels, a perpetual flow in that net-work of lakes
+and rivers, that arterial system of fertility and commerce, which
+variegates and adorns the bright face of our fair land.
+
+"Altogether, in considering the broad scope of this stupendous plan as a
+whole, we have before us a most important work, which must be
+accomplished! A work which affects the welfare and happiness of every
+citizen of our Republic! A work which is in every way worthy of our most
+earnest and persistent effort!
+
+"This day, we have made a propitious beginning, which augurs well for
+success. Let us on all occasions encourage tree-planting as a sacred
+duty which we owe to future generations! A duty which must not be
+neglected! From this time forward, let us strive in every way to
+organize a broader, wiser, more powerful movement! Carried forward by
+the resistless force of an enthusiasm born of a mighty purpose; with
+strong hands and willing hearts, let us undertake the speedy
+accomplishment of our chosen task! Let us remember our responsibilities
+as immortal beings! Let us be mindful that life on this plane of
+existence is very brief; that an eternity of countless ages lies beyond!
+Therefore we cannot afford to be selfish! Let us heed the warning of
+nature's just law of compensation, which declares that in the higher
+life, selfishness becomes a torment in comparison with which a crown of
+thorns would seem a coveted blessing!
+
+"In our devotion to this noble work, let us ignore all unworthy
+thoughts of self interest! Possibly we may not as mortals, live long
+enough in the material form to reap many of the benefits that are to
+follow. But, being immortal; and having passed to a higher realm, where
+we are endowed with a keener, broader, mental, and spiritual vision;
+lost to the sense of time or physical pain, we may then behold the
+results of our work, in the increased enjoyment of our children and our
+children's children; while the centuries, like moments, glide swiftly by
+and are lost in the endless procession of passing ages!
+
+"Finally, as an additional source of encouragement to continue a work
+which we may not live to see mature; let us consider carefully the
+significance of the fact, that he who causes two blades of grass to grow
+where only one grew before, is counted a public benefactor. Judged by
+the same standard, he who causes two trees to grow where only one grew
+before, is a benefactor of mankind, whose good works shall earn for him
+the blessings of a hundred generations! By the same logic, it surely
+follows, that the people, who cause a forest of trees to spring from the
+arid bosom of desert earth, become the distinguished benefactors of the
+human race, who offer shade, shelter, fuel, fertility and sustenance, to
+a thousand future generations! They shall be thrice blessed! Having
+arisen to the demands of a higher life of unselfishness, where the
+solidarity of all life is recognized as a self-evident truth; they have
+gathered a sufficient store of love and wisdom to admit them to the
+domain of causation. Classed as worthy workers in that domain, they are
+entrusted by nature, with the magical key which unlocks the climatic
+gate, to her pent up floods of fertility.
+
+"In conclusion, people of Solaris, I leave this presentation of the
+subject for your earnest consideration until the recurrence of our next
+annual festival. During the interval, I feel confident that you will all
+join me in a closer study, of a topic which has already proved one of
+such absorbing interest,--of such vast importance.
+
+"Thanking you for your close attention, and for the frequent applause,
+which has demonstrated your approval, I recommend that we do now
+adjourn, to enjoy the waiting banquet which is to follow as the next
+order of the day."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+Great applause greeted Fillmore Flagg at the close of his oration.
+George Gerrish arose and paid a glowing tribute to the wisdom and
+eloquence of the orator; after which, grasping him by both hands, he
+said, "Fillmore, I am proud of you! Solaris is more than proud of the
+masterful way in which you have treated the entire subject! Your
+presentation of the theme, seemed to me to be so perfect, so exhaustive
+and eloquent, that in the future I may not expect to again hear its
+equal."
+
+The next moment Fern Fenwick came forward, radiant in her loveliness,
+her beautiful eyes shining with emotions of love and gratified pride. In
+a voice, whose clear, well modulated tones, thrilled him as no music
+could, she said, "Nobly done, Mr. Flagg! I knew you would not disappoint
+me! Your speech was the most lovely poem in prose that I have ever
+heard! So perfectly charming, that I find it far beyond my best words of
+praise! In return for such an eloquent tribute, the trees should join in
+a grateful anthem! You have sounded the key-note; it is the evident
+destiny of co-operative farming in the twentieth century, to restore
+these noble trees to their rightful domain."
+
+The banquet, which followed the oration proved a great success. It was
+really one long, interwoven garland of witty speech and inspiring music,
+together with the merry jingle and melodious crash of silver and china.
+The enjoyable zest of the entertainment, was spiced and flavored with
+the appetizing aroma of an abundance of delicious, well-cooked food.
+Placed at the head of the first table, our hero and heroine were at all
+times the center of attraction; the observed of all observers. "A
+handsome couple, evidently heaven-ordained for each other," was the
+universal comment.
+
+The dance in the evening, was fittingly chosen as the closing function
+of this famous festival. In arranging the program, Fern and Fillmore
+were selected by the floor managers as the leading couple. Inspired by
+the music of an excellent band under the leadership of Gilbert Gerrish,
+the assembled guests with the vigor and enthusiasm of youth caught the
+prevailing spirit of merriment, and gave themselves up to the
+fascinating movement of musical measures. Lost in the charm of the mazy
+dance, the merrymakers noted not the flight of time. The last number on
+the program came all too soon for them.
+
+Dismissed by George Gerrish, the people of Solaris left the hall in a
+joyful mood. They declared with one accord, that the day of the
+tree-planting festival, had proved the happiest one on the farm.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+THE STORY OF GILBERT GERRISH; OR, THE STRENGTH OF THE WEAKEST UNIT.
+
+
+To Gilbert Gerrish the day of the festival was one long to be
+remembered: a day so laden with enjoyment for him, that all
+consciousness of his affliction was blotted out. His musical genius was
+free and unfettered. In such a mood, the music he drew from his violin
+was more wonderful and entertaining than ever before. Fern Fenwick was
+astonished and delighted. She soon became so much interested, that at
+intervals between the dancing, she came upon the platform to engage him
+in conversation. Grateful for such marked attention from the
+distinguished patroness of the farm, the natural shyness and reticence
+of the young musician, was quickly dispelled. To Fern, it was remarkable
+how eloquently and interestingly he could talk upon almost every topic
+she chose to introduce. On the subject of ethical, social, inventive and
+educational work, as exemplified by the different phases of club life at
+the farm; Gilbert was at his best. He spoke with such enthusiasm and
+perfect knowledge of details that Fern Fenwick was profoundly impressed.
+She then and there determined, at the first convenient opportunity, to
+have Fillmore Flagg relate to her more in detail, the many incidents
+connected with his farm life, and how this interesting boy had managed
+in so short a time, to make himself such a universal favorite with the
+farm people, both old and young.
+
+That night before retiring, Gilbert told his mother in confidence, that
+Miss Fenwick was the brightest, most beautiful and most lovable woman he
+had ever met. "Tell me truly, Mamma! Do you think she is really in love
+with Mr. Flagg? I hope it may be true! For I know he deserves to win the
+love of the best and most charming woman that ever was born!"
+
+While this confidential interview between mother and son was in
+progress, Fern and Fillmore were speaking of Gilbert in such a way, that
+if overheard by Gertrude Gerrish it would have stirred the pride in her
+mother heart.
+
+"I declare, Fillmore!" said Fern, "to my mind that clever lad, Gilbert
+Gerrish, is one of the most astonishing products of Solaris Farm! You
+have promised to tell me the story of his life here on the farm. I am
+now ready to hear it. At the festival dance I had an opportunity to
+engage him in conversation, and the good fortune to so win his
+confidence, that he could talk to me without embarassment. It was then
+that I discovered what a brilliant intellectual prodigy, eloquent
+talker, skilled musician, and cultured artist he really was. There is
+something mysterious about his strong, intellectual, spiritual nature,
+which has aroused my interest in him, and my sympathy for him, to a
+degree that is very unusual for me. The more I know of him the more I
+wish to win his friendship.
+
+"What a terrible misfortune, that he is so afflicted by the deformity of
+that spinal trouble! I cannot help picturing him as possessed of a
+physique in harmony with his glorious intellectual and spiritual
+unfoldment. How naturally then, he could win the love of some equally
+gifted, noble woman. How happy they could make each other through the
+passing changes of a long and useful life. Aside from my speculative
+fancies, I do wonder what the future has in store for him? How bravely
+he bears himself! He does not seem inclined to be gloomy or
+misanthropical under the burden of his misfortune!"
+
+"I think, my dear Fern, that my story will unravel the mystery. I am
+delighted to find that you have already become interested in Gilbert,
+and have discovered so many of his good qualities! I can assure you that
+he is worthy of your sympathy and friendship! He is a noble fellow!
+Richly endowed, with a remarkable, intuitive, spiritual nature! His
+enthusiasm, persevering efforts and ingenious devices, have contributed
+much towards the success of this co-operative farm. The value and
+variety of his especial work in the department of experimental farming,
+has proved his extraordinary ability, and justly earned for him the
+title of the 'wonder worker of the farm!'
+
+"On account of Gilbert's frail form and sensitive nature, it was deemed
+wise by his ever watchful parents, to give him the protection of an
+isolated home life. For this purpose, a cozy cottage was built in the
+center of its own grounds, some distance away from all other buildings.
+This cottage was charmingly fitted and furnished in such style and taste
+as would satisfy the artistic ideas of this domestic trio, and at the
+same time, afford quiet, retired, spacious rooms, for Gilbert's musical
+and other studies. Rooms where violin and piano practice, at any hour
+that might suit his fancy, could disturb no one.
+
+"Referring to that haunting desire which impresses you to picture
+Gilbert as possessing a magnificent physique, in harmony with his
+brilliant, mental and spiritual unfoldment; I accept it as another proof
+of the growth of his spiritual body to the beautiful proportions you
+seem to see. All psychics who come within the radius of his powerful,
+spiritual aura, sense or see this strong symmetrical body. His
+affectionate and emotional nature is beautifully developed. No one can
+appreciate the graces and charms of a refined, beautiful woman more
+keenly than Gilbert Gerrish! Yet, I know, that in this life, he does not
+for one moment, even dream of a possible marriage with any woman. He is
+loyally devoted to his spiritual ideal!
+
+"For many months, I have been to Gilbert a trusted friend and
+confidential companion. In this capacity, I have learned his story of
+the hidden romance of his young life. This story I will repeat to you as
+an illustration of the high order of his boyish character. It cannot
+fail to increase both your admiration and your respect, for this
+youthful devotee at the shrine of love.
+
+"When Gilbert was ten years old, while attending school at St. Louis, he
+became acquainted with Rita Estelle Ringwood. She was in many ways a
+remarkable girl; only two months younger than Gilbert. Tall and
+straight, with a well rounded figure, already as large as a maid of
+fourteen, Rita gave promise of an early development into a lovely woman.
+With a large, finely formed head, crowned by a luxuriant growth of soft,
+thick, wavy, chestnut hair; a smooth, creamy complexion, pleasing
+features, firm mouth and well rounded chin; large, full, soft, brown
+eyes, unusually expressive; a strong, well turned white throat and neck,
+symmetrical shoulders, perfectly formed hands and feet; and a well
+poised, graceful carriage, she appeared to Gilbert as some divine
+creature. From the first moment of meeting, a strong bond of mutual
+attraction drew them together. If kept long apart, both became nervous
+and restless. When again united, they were quickly at peace with
+themselves and all the world. By a strange coincidence, as it
+transpired; Rita's parents lived in a house just across the street,
+almost in the front of the one occupied by the Gerrish family. Through
+the children, the parents soon became intimate friends. As Gilbert had
+never cared to play with boys of his own age, either on the streets or
+at school, it was natural under the circumstances, that he should devote
+himself entirely to Rita, as the only congenial playmate he had ever
+known. Very soon, as a consequence, the twain were almost always
+together, either in one home or the other. They read or studied from the
+same book, often pausing to discuss some question of more than usual
+interest. In music, they had the same tastes, the same predominating
+passion for it. Gilbert soon taught Rita to use the violin; while Rita
+in turn taught Gilbert to play the piano. Each could then alternate, in
+playing violin accompaniments to piano music. Much practice soon enabled
+these artistic children, to render such duets with thrilling effect. In
+so delightful an occupation, hours passed swiftly by. A series of
+selections were chosen for evening concerts. The parents were called in
+to enjoy them. In the eyes of the parents, both children were manifestly
+helpful to each other. Rita never seemed to notice Gilbert's misshapen
+body. She evidently responded, only to impressions emanating from his
+more perfect and dominant, spiritual body. Gilbert was conscious of this
+fact, and always seemed at ease in her presence. As the months flew
+swiftly by; these strange children grew more devotedly fond of each
+other. Three summers had witnessed the growing together of these two
+harmoniously attuned souls.
+
+"The day following Gilbert's thirteenth birthday, he was depressed by
+some overshadowing cloud of sadness. He could not explain it, nor, could
+he throw it off. The sequel came the following week, when a great wave
+of pestilence, in the form of malignant typhoid fever, swept over the
+city. It claimed Rita as one of its first victims.
+
+"Heart broken! Rita's parents hastily returned to New York, where,
+surrounded by early associations, they vainly and hopelessly struggled
+to forget their terrible bereavement.
+
+"To Gilbert, the shock was frightful! His parents, George and Gertrude
+Gerrish were alarmed. They feared for his life! He wandered about with
+dry, staring eyes, like one in a trance. He could not weep! For days, he
+could neither eat nor drink! At last, came the crisis! Reason seemed
+about to leave her throne! Then it happened, that Gilbert grew strangely
+calm and hopeful.
+
+"In a few short days the improvement was magical. His beautiful eyes
+shone with the fires of new inspiration! Questioned by his parents, he
+assured them that Rita still lived. He knew that she was not dead!
+Clairvoyantly, he had seen her, more beautiful than ever.
+Clairaudiently, he had heard, over and over again, the sweet familiar
+tones of her voice. All this through his own mediumship and more
+besides. Controlling his hand and arm, in her own identical
+hand-writing, she had written to him long messages filled with loving
+consolation, bidding him look hopefully forward to a happy reunion in
+the land of the spirit, the home of the soul! Almost nightly in dreams,
+she came to him, when for happy hours they were again united in the
+enjoyment of the old familiar companionship, so dear to his waking
+memories.
+
+"Through Gilbert's mediumship, his parents became spiritualists. This
+happened some months before I visited them in St. Louis, on my first
+trip west, from Newburgh. Some months later, the family came to Solaris.
+
+"In a recent conversation, speaking to me of his life work, his hopes
+and his ambitions, Gilbert said: 'Fillmore, I know that my life here
+will be short. I know that I have a work to do here on this farm, for
+the future benefit of my brothers and sisters in earth life. I know that
+in spirit life, Rita waits for me to join her, when that work is
+finished. I now realize that swiftly passing days, weeks, months and
+years, are precious portions of time which I must improve to the utmost.
+I know that this primary school of life has many useful lessons, which I
+must master as quickly as possible. I know that the sooner they are
+mastered, the sooner I shall be prepared to enter a higher class in
+spirit life. I know that as a spirit, in that land of golden sunlight,
+freed from the burden of this unsightly prison of flesh, I shall be
+clothed in a spiritual body as symmetrically perfect as my highest ideal
+can picture. I know that thus clothed, and crowned with the perpetual
+youth of the spirit; I shall again be united with my darling Rita, never
+more to part. Together, in obedience to the law of an infinite love, we
+shall go hand in hand, up the paths of wisdom which lead to the summits
+of the hills of everlasting progress. I know that during my sojourn
+here, when I am weary and most need the healing balm of her presence, my
+Rita can come to cheer and help me. Knowing all this, life is full of
+promise! I have no time to be sad or lonely! The world is bright! I am
+ambitious to make its people my friends, by creating for them, better
+and brighter conditions for the enjoyment of life.'
+
+"This, my dear Fern! is the romance, which like some secret charm,
+Gilbert wears in his heart. His armor against all evil! The bright star
+of his ambition! The beacon light of his hope!"
+
+"The romance is indeed a most extraordinary one! The story is
+exquisitely beautiful! Its pathos fills my heart with both joy and
+sadness! In the development of his mediumship, following his
+bereavement, how like my own, has been his experience! This explains my
+sympathetic desire for his friendship. What a noble fellow he is! I
+shall be proud to claim him as my friend! Now Fillmore, you must tell me
+of his work for the farm. I am anxious to know more of the peculiar
+methods of this inspired genius."
+
+"Very well! In the center of the large garden at the rear of the Gerrish
+cottage, is a roomy workshop, built for Gilbert's sole use and
+occupancy. Alone in this shop, he has mapped out for himself such a
+course of study, experimental work, and industrial amusement, as might
+suit the fancy of his swiftly changing moods; or conform to the passing
+whims of his busy brain. To the combined interests of Solaris farm, he
+is intensely devoted. To keep a realistic picture of the farm always in
+his mind, he has drawn an immense map, large enough to completely cover
+the wall space on one side of the shop. He subdivided, colored and named
+the subdivisions on the map, after a bold, brilliant scheme of his own.
+The result is a matter of astonishment to all beholders. The map seems
+to possess some charm of attraction, which no one can explain. On each
+subdivision from time to time, Gilbert has tacked cards filled with
+finely written notes, setting forth from his own standpoint, a history
+of the subdivision, its peculiarities, and capabilities of the different
+soils; character of crops and fertilizers, together with such
+suggestions for perfection or improvement, as his thorough knowledge of
+chemistry might determine; or his keen, analytical, observation of the
+crops produced, might indicate.
+
+"This map of itself, is a most valuable work; involving an immense
+amount of intelligent, skillful labor; also much study of chemistry, and
+of horticultural and agricultural authorities. As an indication of our
+appreciation of its value, this map has been taken as a suggestive model
+for the completion of those made and kept by the clerical force employed
+in the farm office.
+
+"On the south side of his shop, two large doors open into a roomy,
+glass-roofed hot house, containing a very unique collection of potted
+plants, which, under the skillful hands of this young enthusiast, are
+undergoing the different stages of experimental treatment, such as he
+may deem necessary, to prove or disprove his many pet theories or
+fancies, in regard to care, growth, insect enemies, and to application
+of electric light, sun light, heat, moisture and fertilizers. Each plant
+bears a fruitful crop of cards, giving a summary of results and
+conclusions. Each one of these cards may contain, in skeleton form, the
+subject matter of a brief essay, brimful of valuable suggestions and
+interesting statements. Sooner or later, these essays, signed
+'Experimenter,' are liable to find their way into the contribution box
+at the door of the Press Club.
+
+"Gilbert's collection of birds and insects, forms another interesting
+feature of his industrial museum. These collections were made, arranged
+and classified, in order to afford opportunities for making a careful
+study of the insect enemies of his plants, and also to discover what
+birds were most destructive to the different insects. The birds he kept
+in cages; the insects in glass-covered boxes.
+
+"The care of these things, and the time and labor necessary to collect,
+classify and arrange them, would to most people, prove a grievous
+burden. To Gilbert, it was simply another mode of recreation and
+amusement. On the live insects, he tried the effects of such chemicals
+as might destroy them without injury to the growing plants. To his caged
+birds, Gilbert fed his bugs, worms and moths, carefully noting the kinds
+they most eagerly swallowed. His conclusions were always briefly written
+out. They proved a perfect mine of valuable information, to be used in
+perfecting better methods for farm culture.
+
+"Aside from this kind of work; in the departments of his shop devoted to
+experiments with clays, mica, soils, minerals and the various powers,
+attractions and affinities of electricity, his constructive ideation and
+inspired mentality, always gave him an excellent crop of good results.
+Altogether, such superior work, carried forward in his own unique way,
+has added many hundreds of dollars to the annual income of the farm. In
+the department of experimental farming, as I have before stated, his
+work has proved most brilliant and helpful; generally leading to the
+adoption of many improved methods for successfully selecting, planting
+and growing these new crops.
+
+"Considered as a whole, such a variety of valuable contributions have
+convinced our people, that physically speaking, one of the farm's
+weakest units, under the fostering development of co-operative
+organization, is capable of becoming one of its most valued productive
+workers. The wonder of it all, is, that Gilbert is able to accomplish
+such important results, while following a scheme he has devised as a
+source of personal diversion!
+
+"Turning to Gilbert's intellectual, artistic and esthetic life, we
+discover that this gifted boy finds the same source of comfort and
+amusement in his devotion to the art of music. In this branch of
+accomplishments, you, my dear Fern! have had occasion to observe how
+important a factor he has become, in organized social life at Solaris.
+He is such a general favorite, that without an effort, he has been able
+to so impress the strong individuality of his noble character upon the
+minds of our farm people, that the effect for good has been truly
+wonderful!"
+
+"This is exceedingly interesting, Fillmore! How charmed I am with your
+completed story of this marvelously gifted boy! All that you have told
+me about Gilbert, only seems to confirm my previous convictions, that he
+is really one of the most astonishing products of Solaris farm! No
+wonder he is such a general favorite! He has nobly earned the title!
+With such intelligence and genius, possessed, embodied and expressed by
+its weaker units; is it any cause for wonder, that the success of
+Solaris as a co-operative colony, is so pronounced?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+OUR HERO AND HEROINE DISCUSS AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS.
+
+
+On the day following the festival, we find Fillmore Flagg in the office
+of the farm, going over the books of the company with Fern Fenwick. To
+most women, such a task would soon prove unbearably monotonous and
+tiresome. However, she neither grew restless or inattentive. At all
+times on the alert to note each new point of interest; her questions on
+every subject indicated a remarkably intelligent conception of the
+general plan of the work. Finally, having satisfied herself that she
+understood the status of the farm well enough to enable her to propound
+her list of queries in the proper order, and in such a manner, as would
+most successfully bring to her the information she wished to obtain:
+with note-book in hand, she commenced by saying: "Now Fillmore, I am
+ready to take up my series of questions about Solaris, which you have
+kindly consented to answer. I promise in advance to be good; to try to
+refrain from untimely interruptions, by asking a host of irrelevant
+questions at inopportune moments!
+
+"First, I wish you would tell me just what is represented by the one
+thousand shares of capital stock, of the Solaris Farm Company?"
+
+"The corporation, as you know, is so limited," said Fillmore, "that the
+land cannot be sold, and the stock can only be sold to the Company;
+nevertheless, the original cost of the land is covered by the stock. The
+entire capitalization of $250,000, which I think will fairly represent
+the financial status of the farm at the end of the first five years, is
+divided as follows:
+
+
+     Purchase price of land                $ 32,000
+
+     Improvements                            68,000
+
+     Buildings                              100,000
+
+     Live stock, equipment and machinery     50,000
+                                           --------
+                                           $250,000
+
+
+Of the last named item, about $25,000 is estimated for machinery.
+However, this amount does not fully represent its real value. In many
+instances, it only gives the actual cost of the raw material used in
+construction. This capitalization does not seem so large, when we
+consider the small individual holdings. Having a par value of $250 a
+share, we have only $500, in the two shares, for each one of the five
+hundred co-operators. I think it has been wisely determined by a
+majority vote, that as the resources of the farm continue to develop and
+mature, the increase of profits shall come to the individual stockholder
+in the shape of larger wages, instead of by dividends on stock. Although
+this is not a money-making institution, and was not so intended from the
+beginning; a fact properly emphasized by the foregoing. Yet, by the way
+of arriving at some estimate of its future value, I feel safe in
+predicting, that, if the stock should be offered in the markets of the
+world, and dividends declared in the usual way, twenty years hence,
+these certificates of stock would be worth $1,500 per share. In other
+words, would have doubled in value six times during that period."
+
+"Judging by what I already know of the farm and its resources," said
+Fern, "I quite agree with you in this view of the matter.
+
+"In considering the future needs of such a large number of
+co-operators, which in ten years may be increased by pensioners and
+children, to one thousand people; do you think this farm is large enough
+to meet the demand?"
+
+"For the purpose in view it is ample," said Fillmore. "Operated in
+connection with so many allied industries, I think a farm of 5,000 acres
+would be sufficient. That would be ten acres for each one. Here in
+Solaris, we have 12-8/10 acres of land for every adult member of the
+company. By carrying the process of intensive farming to a very high
+state of perfection; Prof. Grandeau, at Capelle, France, has actually
+demonstrated, that it is possible to grow 8½ bushels of wheat--one
+man's bread food for the year--on one-twentieth part of an acre of land.
+Armed with so many advantages, with better conditions, superior methods,
+and more intelligent workers; I feel sure we can easily accomplish here,
+all that Grandeau has done in France, and more. Besides, you must
+remember, that we shall have the additional support of quite a large
+number of profitable industries, to help us in meeting the demands of an
+increased number of consumers."
+
+"That sounds logical and reasonable," said Fern. "I now remember, that
+while traveling in Europe with my father, gathering agricultural
+statistics: the Capelle experiments were brought to our attention at
+that time, as worthy of careful consideration. I am greatly pleased to
+know that you are already familiar with them. To continue the subject, I
+wish to say that I am much impressed with the outlook for intensive
+farming at Solaris. Aided by the wonderful power of applied co-operative
+thinking, combined with your careful and comprehensive system of
+book-keeping, which embraces every field and department of the farm! I
+believe that ten years hence, you will be able to give to the world,
+some very valuable statistics on the whole subject of farming, both
+intensive and diversified.
+
+"I have noticed with an unusual degree of interest, the apparently
+lavish use of electric power in operating the factory works and farm
+machinery. I am really quite curious to know just how it is generated."
+
+"That is a very large question!" said Fillmore. "At different times
+since the commencement of our work, we have used three methods for
+generating electricity. First, the old fashioned steam dynamo. Second,
+the direct conversion of coal into electricity. Third, the gathering of
+great quantities of this subtle force from the atmosphere, through a
+certain vibratory action, set up by intense concentration of the sun's
+rays. As a result of a vast deal of co-operative thinking and careful
+experimentation; the last named process, has been so perfected and
+cheapened, as to entirely supersede the first two. The powerful
+batteries of Solaris concentrators, which you see around the
+power-house, and at various points on the farm, are important factors in
+this work. I confess, that I am rather proud of the remarkable success,
+which we have achieved in this line of invention. When I gave a title to
+the farm, I had a premonition, that solar heat and force would be so
+successfully harnessed to both industrial and agricultural work, that
+the suggestive name of Solaris, would soon become as famous, as it was
+fitting and well earned.
+
+"In applying this power to all kinds of farm and factory work, we have
+succeeded far beyond my most sanguine expectations. With a plant almost
+entirely built by our own co-operative labor, we are able to generate an
+abundance of cheap power, which can be easily and safely conducted to
+the most distant portions of the farm. This power is readily available
+at any desired point, and for all kinds of work; becoming the magic
+motor by which we operate trains of trolley cars, for handling grain,
+hay, corn and all heavy crops; great gang-plows, rollers, harrows,
+cultivators, planters, drills, reapers, threshers and motor wagons; all
+so perfectly constructed and so easily controlled; that with them a
+woman, fittingly dressed and gloved, protected from the heat of the sun
+by a canopy, comfortably seated on cushions and springs, may accomplish
+the roughest and heaviest kind of farm work, without fatigue or
+discomfort. In fact, our women soon find it the most delightfully,
+fascinating work on the farm.
+
+"In connection with such a powerful motor, a single person, operating
+one of these improved agricultural machines, can do an amount of work in
+six hours, which under the old system would require ten hours of severe
+toil by six men and twelve horses. Of course, such machinery can only be
+produced and operated by large co-operative farms like this; with a
+carefully chosen force of co-operators, who are thinkers as well as
+workers; who are intellectually, physically and socially prepared to
+invent and construct machines that are perfectly fitted to do this
+particular kind of work."
+
+"Really!" said Fern, "this is as interesting as it is remarkable! This
+sun-generated force, this magic motor, so perfectly adjusted to
+agricultural work, under the test of practical use; which has proved so
+easily controlled; together with the tireless host of wonder-working
+machines, which this force has called into being; is truly a marvel
+worthy of the twentieth century!
+
+"Tell me, Fillmore! Why is it that these things have not been done
+before?"
+
+"There are many reasons. I think I can give you the principal one. From
+a remote period of time, a large majority of the people of this planet
+have gained a living by following agricultural pursuits. Bowed down
+under the weight of severe toil, hopeless under the pressure of a
+belief, that labor was a curse which they might not seek to escape;
+confined by ignorance to a narrow sphere of action, which kept them from
+looking upward and outward; it is not strange, that so many passing
+generations of these people, should never once dream of adopting a
+series of progressive changes for the betterment of their condition.
+
+"Such people were incapable of understanding, that, in order to secure
+the best and most successful results from agricultural work, it requires
+a systematic application of the highest order of brain work: that this
+brain work, must inspire a harmonious collection of trained, muscular
+workers, operating under the most favorable conditions. By the way of a
+contrast, how helpless were the lives of these farmers! As a rule they
+worked under the most discouraging conditions, distrustful and envious,
+uneducated and narrow minded; how could they be prepared to comprehend
+that basic law of progress, which is embodied in the idea of unselfish
+co-operation?
+
+"For these reasons, co-operative thinking and co-operative farming, have
+not heretofore been successfully combined. Here and now, in the first
+decade of the twentieth century, a few unselfish souls, the advance
+guard of the coming army, responding to the pressure of progressive
+evolution, have risen to such intellectual heights as has enabled them
+to discover, that by the aid of a harmonious union of thought and labor,
+a collection of people, working the soil unselfishly together, can
+easily attain results which, the most brilliant individual effort, armed
+with the wealth of a millionaire, could never hope to accomplish.
+Inspired with this idea, the people of Solaris, as pioneers in the work,
+are striving earnestly to demonstrate the absolute success of
+co-operative farming."
+
+"What I have seen with my own eyes, I know as a verity!" said Fern,
+enthusiastically. "Therefore I feel like shouting in the ears of our
+people: Well done, good and faithful servants in the cause of progress!
+The victory is already won! It is yours!
+
+"Your explanation of the cause of the late coming of practical
+co-operation in agriculture, appeals to my mind, as a very clear one.
+That the ignorance and selfishness of the individual, has from the
+beginning, proved the real obstacle, is now quite plain to me.
+
+"However, returning to my list of questions. How is it, that the fields
+and cultivated grounds at Solaris, are so free from weeds?"
+
+"Ah!" said Fillmore. "The answer to that question, is another argument
+in favor of co-operative farming. Weeds have always been counted by
+farmers, as among the worst of the pests which they have been obliged to
+contend with. Under the most adverse conditions, weeds will grow,
+flourish, and ripen an appalling quantity of seed; where all useful
+plants will languish and finally perish. To keep them down, is a task
+which requires a great deal of hard work. To destroy them, root and
+branch, is a problem which has occupied the minds of our people for the
+past thirty months. After much thoughtful work, we have reached a
+solution.
+
+"During the period of frost, from the first of December to the first of
+March, the weedy ground is thoroughly stirred several times. After each
+stirring, the ground is swept by a broad stream of concentrated
+heat-rays--both light and dark. These rays are generated by a number of
+batteries of Solaris mirrors, or great sun glasses. This operation soon
+warms the ground and causes the weeds to put forth a tender growth.
+After such a growth, a week of frosty weather kills it down. This
+process is repeated until the weeds are all gone. When the necessary
+frosts do not appear, or when the work is carried on during warmer
+weather, a scorching from the sun glasses, kills the weeds even more
+effectively than frost. In this way the cultivated ground on the farm,
+has been entirely freed from weeds. As a result, the yield of crops has
+been largely increased, while the labor of cultivation has been
+correspondingly reduced. That back-aching work of hoeing, has been
+almost entirely dispensed with. Machine culture does the work.
+
+"The great advantage gained by cropping soil free from weeds, is most
+apparent in case of wheat culture. In such soils, the wheat can be
+deeply sown by the drill, beyond the reach of predatory birds. This
+develops a strong root-growth in the young plant, which as a consequence
+requires more space. To meet this demand, care is taken to have the
+drill-rows made one foot apart--running north and south. These wide rows
+allow free access of air and sunlight to the soil, which may then be
+cultivated. Under the old system this space would be full of weeds;
+therefore impracticable. This gives the young wheat a chance to spread
+out, to send up from twenty to forty stout stems from the root-system of
+a single grain of seed. The growing stems become more sturdy, bear
+larger heads, heads with more and larger kernels, of heavier, brighter
+wheat. With this culture, the yield is increased one-third--many times
+one-half--and the quality wonderfully improved. Fully one-half of the
+usual quantity of seed is saved.
+
+"By repeating this method for a few years, carefully choosing the seed
+for each planting from the best kernels borne by the largest heads, the
+ordinary wheat-crop, without extra fertilization, may easily be doubled
+two and one-half times; while the quality of the entire crop is raised
+to the grade of extra fine, which will readily sell at fancy prices for
+seed wheat. The net gain, is a large cash balance in favor of
+cultivating a weedless soil. What is true of wheat culture in such
+soils, is true in a large measure with most other crops; more especially
+with corn, cotton and all kinds of garden crops."
+
+"Stop a moment, Fillmore!
+
+"Did I understand you to say that these immense discs, these mammoth,
+weed-scorching mirrors, were made here at Solaris? How can such
+expensive things be made, for a price that would allow so many to be
+used?"
+
+"Yes, these concentrating mirrors and burning glasses combined, are the
+product of the inventive genius and skillful work of our people. A
+combination of brain and muscular work so successful, that these discs,
+although they are of such great size and weight, are quickly and
+cheaply made from thick plates of flat glass, which we manufacture from
+our abundant supply of excellent sand! The quality of the glass in these
+plates is of the best; clear, soft, and tough, just the kind that will
+most readily take the proper concave and convex surfaces, when treated
+by the evenly applied heat of swiftly revolving electric brushes. With
+plenty of strong machinery to handle these heavy plates, a few skilled
+workers, can with ease, soon transform them into perfect, lense-shaped
+discs. Similar discs, made by the slow, tedious process of nineteenth
+century methods, would cost many thousands of dollars for each one."
+
+"You have answered my question both briefly and perfectly! I recognize
+in these great mirrors, a swift, wonder-working agency, that shall make
+possible a new system of farming; which means, in the improved
+conditions for mankind that must follow, a revolution in social methods,
+calculated to bring them quickly into harmony with a rate of progress
+demanded by the twentieth century.
+
+"I will take up another question. It is in connection with the large
+amount of cultivated ground devoted to vegetables. How do you manage to
+make it profitable to grow such a quantity of perishable things?"
+
+"That is another important question, which will require an answer so
+lengthy, that perhaps you may grow weary before I have finished.
+However, I will try to be brief. During the past year, we have taken
+from the ground devoted to vegetable growing, more than 100,000 bushels
+of cabbage, cauliflower, onions, beets, mangel-wurzel, carrots,
+parsnips, salsify, potatoes, sweet-potatoes, cassava, turnips, kohlrabi
+and artichokes. The best part of the story is, that this heavy crop has
+proved profitable, to a degree far beyond our expectations! As a rule,
+this class of vegetables, so heavy and so perishable, cannot be
+profitably grown in large quantities, except in locations near a large
+market town. This advantage, Solaris does not possess. To overcome this
+difficulty, was an additional task, which must be conquered, by the
+allied forces of co-operative thinking and co-operative working. In the
+solution of this puzzling question which was finally reached, the great
+mirrors and burning glasses of the Solaris concentrators, were again
+called upon to play an important part.
+
+"The first necessity, was to reduce the weight of the vegetables, and at
+the same time, to arrest all tendency to decay. The second was to
+protect them from the attack of insects, by placing them in neat,
+strong, insect-proof packages.
+
+"A large curing establishment was built and equipped with machinery;
+most of which was made at Solaris, from especially devised patterns.
+Convenient trolley lines, connected the curing-house with the fields.
+The vegetables, crisp and fresh from the ground, were quickly brought to
+the washing machines, on trains of cars laden with shallow trays, which
+permitted them to be swiftly handled without bruising. In these
+machines, they were thoroughly cleansed, scraped, and freed from tops,
+rootlets and imperfections. This process complete, they were placed in
+trays on traveling carriers, which delivered them to the dicing
+machines. In the dicing machines, they were soon reduced to inch-cubes.
+
+"In passing from these machines, the cubes fell on traveling screens of
+fine wire, which formed the first of a long series of drying rollers.
+The drying rollers, on the way to the packing rooms in the large
+store-house, passed through a long system of sheet-iron conduits, which
+were well heated by the concentrated rays of the sun from the mirrors
+and sunglasses. So well did the drying rollers do their work, that by
+the time the cubes had reached the store-house, and were delivered by
+the elevators into the storing-bins in the packing house, they were
+reduced to a dry, hard kernel. They had lost three-fourths in bulk, and
+about the same proportion in weight.
+
+"The funnel-shaped bottoms to the storing-bins were so arranged as to be
+above the long rows of packing tables. A series of graduated spouts,
+delivered the cured vegetables to the packers, who, standing or sitting
+as they might prefer, could, with but little effort and much speed, fill
+the prepared boxes with the little cubes.
+
+"These boxes, of a uniform size and shape, were made from thick layers
+of heavy straw-paper, made stiff and firm under high pressure. The farm
+in manufacturing them, was able to utilize large quantities of surplus
+straw from the grain fields, which could not be used as forage. In the
+corners of the boxes, between layers of paper, while they were being
+molded into shape, were inserted small, triangular pieces of wood. These
+bevel-shaped strips were cut six inches in length, just the depth of the
+boxes, in which they served as upright cornerposts. The shallow covers
+fitted each box with a telescope joint.
+
+"In the process of box-making, the layers of paper were saturated with a
+chemical, germicide solution, which made the boxes insect-proof; yet,
+which would not odorize, nor in any way injure the contents. In the
+process of packing, each box and cover was lined with thin sheets of
+parafine paper, as an additional guard against moisture. When the boxes
+were filled and sealed, they were strongly coopered, by adding four thin
+laths of strong wood. These laths, one-eighth of an inch thick, two
+inches wide, and just the length of the box; two at the bottom, and two
+at the top, were securely nailed to the cornerposts; thus completing a
+package which was cheap, strong, light, durable, rodent and
+insect-proof. With a capacity of a half-bushel, it weighed only five
+pounds. Filled with cubes, the gross weight was but thirty-five pounds.
+An ideal package, which could be piled high in transportation or
+store-house without injury; the upright cornerposts taking all the
+pressure.
+
+"The half-bushel or thirty pounds of dried cubes in each box, represent
+two bushels of fresh vegetables. Cured and packed in this way, they
+reach distant markets, sound, sweet, clean and nutritious. No waste, no
+worms, no musty smell, no decay! Frost cannot hurt them, heat preserves
+them! For long voyages, army and navy use, mining, lumbering, and
+hunting outfits, they are simply invaluable! For all classes of
+consumers, they are cheaper, cleaner and more wholesome than the
+ordinary stale and wilted vegetables, for sale in the city markets! We
+have named these cubes, 'Solaris Vegetable Concentrates,' a title which
+we have copyrighted. The packages readily wholesale at 75 cents, to be
+retailed at one dollar. At these prices, they yield a handsome profit to
+the farm.
+
+"Last year we placed hundreds of sample packages on the general market,
+which soon proved the excellence of the goods, and later brought heavy
+orders for this year; even more than we can fill, for many of the
+varieties. A valuable hint to us, that we must devote more ground to
+growing those particular kinds.
+
+"Our 'Solaris Mixture Concentrates' are almost equally popular. We also
+have a growing demand for our 'Solaris Stock Food,' which we put in
+cheaper packages, to wholesale and retail at 50 and 75 cents. This
+mixture is made up of equal proportions of dried cubes of potatoes,
+carrots, cassava, and mangel-wurzel. It has proved the acme of a
+healthful, fattening stock-food; especially beneficial in counteracting
+the evil effects of heavy grain-feeding; or in cases of emergency, to
+take the place of forage or cut-straw food.
+
+"In a weedless soil, much of the heavy labor of growing vegetables is
+eliminated. In curing and preparing them for market in this way, a great
+amount of light, pleasant work, is available for our women co-operators.
+Considered as a whole, this vegetable scheme is one of the notable
+achievements of Solaris farm, of which the members of the company are
+justly proud."
+
+"This is surely a most excellent work! It is a clear demonstration of
+what important results may be attained, by the application of thinking
+to agricultural work. In this instance, the lesson of your brilliant
+success, impresses my mind as a most convincing argument in favor of
+co-operative farming. I feel sure that it will appeal to the multitude
+with the same force. It is but another illustration of the old saying,
+'Nothing succeeds like success!' A few such examples will serve to
+overthrow the prejudices of a thousand years! They will win for you a
+host of followers in the cause of co-operative farming.
+
+"Now Fillmore, let us consider another matter. At the time we made our
+tour of inspection, my attention was attracted to groups of oddly
+constructed barns, scattered here and there about the farm. What are
+these buildings, and for what purpose are they used?"
+
+"Those are curing-barns. They mark another wide departure from the usual
+methods of ordinary farming. For many years it has been a ruinously,
+wasteful custom with farmers, to allow their crops of corn, grain and
+hay, to stand in the fields while curing. All, subject meanwhile to the
+destructive effects of storms, dews and all kinds of adverse weather,
+which as a rule, destroyed much of the crop, and reduced the remainder
+to the condition of an inferior grade.
+
+"By the use of these barns, we are able to inaugurate an entirely
+different system, which succeeds admirably. These barns, located near
+the grain fields, are constructed with strong frames. They are both tall
+and wide, and so anchored to their foundations as not to be overthrown
+by high winds. Each roof is supplied with a series of latticed
+ventilators. In building the side walls, every alternate ten feet, was
+left open from ground to roof. These open spaces were fitted with roller
+screens of jointed, wooden slats, operated by weights and springs, which
+allowed the interior to be well lighted and thoroughly ventilated. These
+screens could all be raised or lowered at pleasure. While the barns were
+being filled, they were all open.
+
+"As the fields of grain commenced to ripen, while the straw was still
+green and full of sap, and the swollen kernels were just passing out of
+the dough stage of maturing; with the aid of a large force of workers,
+operating improved machinery, entire fields of standing grain at just
+precisely the proper stage of maturity, could be transferred to the
+shelter of these barns in a single day. As the heavy green bundles of
+grain were delivered from the fields, to the adjustable elevators
+working through the open spaces of the barns, from either side, these
+bundles were carried to the hands of the rick-builders, who piled them
+into narrow ricks five feet in width, across the barn and up to the
+roof. As the ricks grew in height, strong wire screens were hooked to
+the dividing posts which marked the boundaries of the ricks. These
+screens kept the bundles in place, and the ricks securely upright. When
+the barns were filled in this way, the ricks were separated by four feet
+of open space, with a ventilator in the roof for each pair of ricks and
+spaces.
+
+"When the grain crops were thus housed without waste from shelling, the
+curing process went forward swiftly and securely. The advantages gained,
+were many. The wheat straw, full of sap when harvested, in curing
+slowly, kept the plump kernels of grain from shrinking, while it left
+them with clear, smooth, thin skins, and a quality, which produced less
+bran and more gluten, in the flour they would yield when ground. The
+kernels were all more uniform in size, larger, firmer and fairer; would
+all grade as number one. No sprouted wheat! No must! No blight! No rust!
+
+"This was also true of oats and barley. The straw came from the improved
+threshers, in straight, compact bundles, thoroughly freed from grain,
+fragrant and bright, almost as nutritious for forage as hay. In fact,
+this straw, in such excellent shape for cutting, feeding, storing, or
+transportation, possessed more than twice the selling value of the best
+of ordinary straw. The oat straw, being softer and more pliable, was
+still more valuable as forage. The barley straw, less desirable for
+stock food, was sent to the paper mill for the use of the box factory.
+By this method of harvesting and curing grain, the increase in quality
+and selling value, was largely augmented. The general result was a
+marked saving of grain, time, labor and money.
+
+"In cutting and curing the hay crops, the same kind of barns were used.
+The loosely packed hay in the tall, thin ricks, was soon dry enough to
+bale, and then be transferred to the storing barns; leaving room for the
+corn crop which was to follow. Hay cured in this way is superior to
+anything on the market, and always brings tip-top prices!
+
+"In curing corn, more time and wider ricks are necessary. The corn could
+be cut earlier, thus leaving the ground free to be prepared for the
+succeeding crop of fall wheat or late vegetables. During stormy weather,
+after this slower curing process was complete, a jolly army of huskers
+invaded the barns. The ripe corn, free from husk, was carefully assorted
+and stored in the ventilated bins prepared for it. The selected husks
+were packed and baled, ready for market. The stalks were stripped and
+topped by a clever machine. The excellent forage thus accumulated, was
+baled and stored. The pith in the large part of the stalk, was then
+extracted by another machine. These piths were then treated to a
+water-proofing process, sent to a shop on the farm, and made up into
+life preservers. Both life preservers and life rafts, made from pith
+treated in this way, proved lighter, cheaper, and more buoyant than
+those made from cork. This, you will observe is another profitable
+industry, added to the financial resources of Solaris. It is also an
+addition to the fitting employments for women.
+
+"A still more desirable employment for our women co-operators, was found
+at the grain mill, where wheat, oats, and barley were transformed into
+popular brands of 'Solaris Breakfast Food.' Thus prepared, the market
+value of a bushel of grain was increased four fold.
+
+"A new food preparation, from a mixture of pop-corn with equal parts of
+thoroughly ground, roasted sweet corn, is really an excellent article of
+diet. In small, neat packages, this healthy and attractive food can be
+sold at a large profit.
+
+"All of these sources of profit, naturally grow out of the new methods
+of harvesting and housing grain, which is made possible by the curing
+barns. While in appearance, these barns may not prove attractive, yet, I
+think you will readily acknowledge that they are very useful buildings;
+buildings which Solaris could not well do without."
+
+"Really! Fillmore, I think these buildings are very fine! More than
+that, they are wonderfully well adapted to the purpose for which they
+were constructed! In this respect they certainly excel in usefulness,
+all other classes of barns. In your description of them, and of the new
+methods in harvesting; I have been as much interested and entertained as
+though you were relating some fascinating romance. Indeed, I have been
+so absorbed, that I fear my poor note-book has been sadly neglected!
+
+"How much land do you devote to cotton growing? How has co-operative
+methods, affected its culture as a paying crop?"
+
+"Last year, we planted twelve hundred acres in cotton. By the use of
+choice seed, a weedless soil, improved methods in the destruction of
+insect enemies, a better selection of fibre-producing fertilizers, a
+less wasteful plan of planting, and a more careful culture, we have
+increased the yield per acre from 300 to 500, and in a few instances to
+550 pounds. When the crop was picked and ginned, we had twelve hundred
+bales of fine cotton. The quality of the fibre in the whole lot, was so
+excellent and so uniformly well ripened, that we were offered two cents
+per pound above the ruling price of ordinary cotton. As a result, this
+one crop gave the farm a cash income of $65,000. $60,000 for the fibre,
+and $5,000 for the seed, oil and oil cake. Choice seed for planting, was
+a large item in the last named amount.
+
+"Heretofore, the great difficulty experienced by single farmers in
+growing large crops of cotton, has arisen from the want of sufficient
+help during the picking season. At Solaris, we always have an abundance
+of help. If the needs of the work seem to demand it, we can put two
+six-hour reliefs of pickers into the field each day, with 200 pickers in
+each relief. By working such a force, a large crop can soon be gathered
+without waste or damage. The pickers, all receiving the same daily
+wages, have a pocket interest in saving the cotton, therefore clean,
+careful picking, with a view of preserving a high grade of fibre, soon
+becomes the rule. This is an important matter, as green, immature fibre
+is worthless for the purpose of making a strong, durable thread or
+fabric; therefore pickers must be sufficiently intelligent, to
+understand why they should select only the thoroughly ripened cotton.
+
+"Care is taken to make the pickers as comfortable as possible. For this
+purpose, broad, movable awnings, are provided to protect them from sun
+and showers. Under such circumstances, the picking season becomes one of
+fun and frolic, to which our co-operators, look forward with rejoicing.
+Six hours in each day spent in such light, pleasant work, is hardly
+regarded as toil. Yet, the amount of cotton picked by each individual,
+measured by the number of hours employed, is fully up to the standard
+set by good pickers, under the old system of long hours. The
+nimble-fingered women easily bear off the palm, as the expert pickers.
+If they were paid by the pound, their earnings would be greater than
+those of the men. Judged by such practical work, women cannot much
+longer be classed with the weaker units of an agricultural colony!"
+
+"I consider that, as a very important point, well stated! But pardon me
+Fillmore, for the question! You spoke of better methods for the
+destruction of insect enemies. What are those insects, and how did you
+manage to destroy them?"
+
+"Those that proved the most troublesome, were the cut-worm and
+boll-worm. Both were hatched from the eggs laid by certain kinds of
+moths. During the nights of the egg-laying season, for these moths, they
+were easily trapped and destroyed. By the use of a large number of
+electric light traps, suspended from convenient wires, thousands of
+these insects were lured to destruction before they could deposit their
+eggs. We are encouraged to believe, that a few years of such wholesale
+extermination, will soon rid us of these pests altogether.
+
+"With a view of securing a continuous improvement in the quality of the
+cotton, we propose during the next five years, to carefully select the
+seed for each successive planting, from the largest, most prolific
+stalks, that produce the finest fibre. Reasoning from past experience, I
+think it will not be difficult to obtain a yield at least one-third
+greater than that of last year; which, on account of extra-superior
+quality, will readily sell for a still higher price. A careful reading
+of the annual reports, made by our consuls, who are stationed at the
+principal commercial ports of the world, has taught us, that to sell
+well, American cotton must be baled to meet the requirements of foreign
+markets. These markets demand that we must use a finer, better quality
+of baling burlaps, that will enable us to make closer, stronger,
+smoother packages, such as will at once impress the prospective buyer
+with the fact that they are really fine, because in appearance they are
+so tight, tidy, and attractive. To secure this, a small additional
+expense for baling material, is money well spent.
+
+"Considering cotton as a cash crop, our experience so far, proves it to
+be especially adapted to the needs and methods of co-operative farming.
+A single crop has put money enough into our treasury, to pay more than
+double the purchase price of this farm."
+
+"From your very clear and comprehensive answers to my questions, it
+appears that a co-operative farm, by reason of the number and
+organization of its workers, is equipped to carry on the culture of
+cotton with more than ordinary profit. This I accept as being absolutely
+true! Therefore I hail your success as a revelation of new
+possibilities, which must surely follow in the near future!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+THE DISCUSSION GROWS MORE INTERESTING.
+
+
+"Now Fillmore," said Fern, "I wish to ask, what have you been doing in
+the department of experimental farming?"
+
+"Much of the work in that department is still in such a preliminary
+stage, that definite results cannot yet be declared. However, among the
+experiments worthy of mention, are the fields containing the various
+kinds of true sugar cane, and of sorghum or Chinese sugar cane.
+
+"By hybridizing and other methods, we are striving to increase the
+hardiness of the former and the crystallizing-sugar product of the
+latter. By the results already obtained we are encouraged to believe,
+that five years hence, we shall have produced a sugar-cane equal to the
+best, that may be grown with much profit, as far north as St. Louis.
+
+"Small plots of ground have also been devoted to growing tea, peppers,
+sage, hops, ginseng and other medicinal plants, with such excellent
+results, that no doubt they will soon develop into profitable ventures.
+
+"The ten acres planted to broom-corn, have produced the necessary
+material with which to keep the workers in the broom and brush factory
+profitably employed.
+
+"In the line of fibre plants, other than the cotton crop before
+mentioned; we have grown enough hemp and flax, to supply the needs of
+our rope and twine works. In 'bromelia fibrista,' a new fibre plant, we
+find a product that bids fair to rival silk in producing a fabric of
+fine, smooth, beautiful texture.
+
+"In addition to the foregoing, several swampy plots have been planted to
+willow, and as a consequence, a growing basket-weaving industry has been
+developed.
+
+"At the very beginning of our work here, while I was preparing to stock
+the seed beds in the nursery, one of our co-operators, a very
+intelligent and observing young man, who had been railroading in Mexico
+for two years previous to his joining our colony, called my attention to
+the Mexican quince. So strongly did he assert his belief that the fruit
+would thrive at Solaris, that I soon became a convert to his enthusiasm.
+With the young man for a guide, two weeks later we were on the way to
+Mexico; returning shortly, with enough three-year-old nursery stock, to
+plant one hundred acres. In addition, we secured the seed for 500,000
+young plants. Since that time, our plantation of quince bushes has grown
+finely.
+
+"Last year we gathered the first crop. Not a large one--perhaps, from
+fifteen to twenty-five quinces from each clump of bushes. As the fruit
+was large and the bushes thickly planted, the yield was about one
+hundred crates to the acre. An aggregate of ten thousand crates for the
+entire crop. We have every reason to believe, that the crop this year
+will be double that amount.
+
+"Owing to the fact that this quince thrives best on the elevated table
+lands of Mexico, where it is subject to periods of cold and frost of
+considerable length; it has readily adjusted itself to this location and
+climate. We are now able to pronounce it, a complete success! It is a
+magnificent fruit! Much superior in size, color, flavor and fragrance,
+to our own domestic quince. In keeping qualities and a firmness of flesh
+that will bear long distance transportation without injury, it is fully
+equal to the northern quince. In a deep-toned richness of color,
+perfection of shape and smoothness of skin, these peerless quinces are
+veritable apples of gold! They are pictures of beauty which sell at
+sight! The flavor is so fine, that Mexicans eat them with as much relish
+as the people of New York eat apples. Dried, these quinces are
+delicious!
+
+"In Mexico, large quantities are annually reduced to a soft mass of
+pulp, spread out in thin layers, and dried into sheets of what is termed
+quince-leather. Armed with a generous roll of this excellent
+preparation, the traveler in the desert countries of hot, dry climates,
+may bid defiance to thirst. With such a wealth of recommendations, we
+were able to sell our first crop of quinces at a net price of two
+dollars per crate; or $20,000 in cash. Hereafter we shall save the
+commissions, as we have already received advance orders for our next
+crop, at $2.25 per crate, delivered on board the cars here at Solaris.
+Next year, we propose to enlarge our quince orchard by adding another
+hundred acres. Taking all these items into consideration, I think we
+have good reason to be proud of our first attempt at experimental
+farming in the line of quince culture!
+
+"I have two additional experiments to describe. They are the last on my
+list.
+
+"While in Mexico securing the quince plants, I found what to me was a
+new variety of table grapes. They were marked by the following
+characteristics. Large clusters, berry large oblong, thin skin, few
+seeds, fine sweet pulp, delicious bouquet, color when ripe, a pale
+amber green; ripens about the first of July. As we found these grapes
+growing on the high table lands, I determined to try them at Solaris. By
+the dint of hard work, I procured enough young vines to set fifty acres.
+From those vines, we have rooted enough cuttings in the nursery, to give
+us 100,000 young vines, which have now reached the proper size for
+setting in the vineyard. This fine grape we have named 'Solaris Early.'
+
+"Last July we gathered our first crop--5000 ten-pound baskets, which we
+readily sold at the fancy wholesale price of one dollar per basket. In
+packing them for the market we carefully reject small, poor bunches. The
+bunches selected are freed from all bruised berries. The stems of the
+bunches are then dipped in melted wax. After this treatment they are
+packed in layers of finely cut, soft chaff, made from clean, bright,
+fragrant oat straw. The chaff serves to keep the berries and clusters
+well apart, and also to keep out the air, which otherwise would soon
+wilt the fruit. Packed in this way the grapes reach distant markets in
+perfect condition. In fact, they are the only good table grapes on the
+market at that season; therefore in choice lots they will always command
+fancy prices. The experiment with them has proved so successful that
+next season, we shall increase the size of the vineyard to two hundred
+acres.
+
+"By way of a commencement in small fruit culture, we have fifty acres of
+ground, devoted to growing a great variety of berries. They require the
+work of a large number of hands during the picking season. Owing to the
+perishable nature of such small fruits, we do not attempt to market them
+fresh, but make them into jellies, jams, marmalades, and preserves.
+These we pack in glass jars, of the various sizes demanded by the
+wholesale and retail trade. In preparing and packing these goods, we use
+only the best of everything. This is in line with our purpose to
+establish a reputation of a high degree of excellence, for each article
+put on the market under a Solaris label. By a rigid observance of this
+rule, we manage to sell the products of our berry crops at a good
+profit.
+
+"When the farm books are balanced at the end of the year, we are
+encouraged to find that the fifty acres of berries, has a larger credit
+than any other fifty acres on the farm.
+
+"In the line of an extension of this kind of farming, we are now
+preparing for next year, with the purpose of starting a factory for
+canning our output of sweet corn, green peas, beans, asparagus,
+tomatoes, peaches, plums and pears. This completes my list of items
+under the head of experimental farming, which Solaris now has to offer.
+What do you think of it so far?"
+
+"I think very well of it indeed! I am especially impressed with the
+Mexican quinces, early grapes, and the berries. They seem to promise the
+greatest success, and the largest financial returns. Taken altogether, I
+think the outlook for experimental farming at Solaris, is very bright!
+
+"Now, by the way of recapitulation, can you give to me, a brief
+statement of the crops grown last year; with an approximate one, of the
+cash derived therefrom?"
+
+"That will not be difficult. I will endeavor to make my statement as
+brief as possible.
+
+"By looking at this map, you will observe that during the season just
+past, we have cultivated about 4,000 acres of land. The crops planted,
+were nearly as follows: 1,200 acres to cotton; 1,000 acres to wheat;
+1,100 acres divided between corn, oats, barley and hay; 150 acres to
+vegetables, and 550 acres to a miscellaneous variety of crops, such as
+the nursery, the quince orchard, the vineyard, the berries, the gardens,
+and all ground devoted to experimental culture.
+
+"The aggregate cash income derived from these crops, which found a
+market in the outside world, in addition to those sold to our own
+people, amounted in round numbers to $193,000. Of this amount, $95,000
+came from sales of cotton and wheat. Next year we have good reason to
+expect a cash income of $250,000 from our farm products alone. Last year
+we realized $57,000 from the sale of our manufactured products; such as
+brick, terracotta, drain pipes, tiles, earthen ware, furniture, brooms,
+willow ware, and the output of several other minor industries. This
+brought the total income of the farm for the year, up to $250,000.
+
+"You ask what disposition has been made of this money? $50,000 has been
+expended in additional improvements, machinery, buildings, and live
+stock for the farm. $25,000 more, has been added to the stock in our
+store, which now has a supply of goods, sufficient to meet the demands
+of adjacent settlers who wish to trade with us. $25,000 is held in our
+treasury, for use in any emergency which may arise. The remaining
+$150,000, has been placed in the sinking-fund.
+
+"Our farm-store, has proved a very important institution. The clothing,
+tailoring, dressmaking and millinery departments, have proved
+surprisingly successful; with a constantly increasing demand for the
+goods turned out. This opens a wide field of remunerative labor, for our
+women co-operators.
+
+"The 2,400 acres of untilled lands, are now utilized as follows: 500
+acres are covered by a fairly good native forest; 500 more, by the
+scattered timber around the stone quarries, gravel beds, sand pits, clay
+deposits and the various other mines. 400 acres are used for pasture,
+100 acres belong to the village site. 200 acres are planted to apple
+trees; 25 acres to pear; 25 acres to peach; and 200 acres to nut-bearing
+trees. 100 acres are now being prepared for the addition to the quince
+orchard. Another 100 acres for the vineyard. The remaining 250 acres,
+for other desirable varieties of fruit.
+
+"Of the 100 acres set apart for the village site, only forty, are at
+present occupied by the streets in use, the buildings, and the public
+square. The remaining sixty acres, are laid out with walks, drives,
+lawns, oval, circular, and star-shaped plots. The latter, are filled
+with choice roses and flowers. The ovals and circles, are thickly
+planted with fruit trees and ornamental shrubbery. The fruits, such as
+cherries, plums, peaches, pears and figs, have all been the result of
+experimental potting and planting by the school children. The same is
+true in a large measure, of the rose gardens and the shrubbery.
+
+"The effect of this amusing work on the children, is most excellent. A
+taste for the beautiful becomes permanent, while they acquire a fund of
+useful knowledge about the care and culture of trees, and also how to
+enjoy themselves in the conscious zeal of pushing forward some useful
+employment; which will make them stronger, healthier and happier. With
+the advent of spring, comes a wealth of bloom to reward their toil--a
+paradise of beauty and fragrance; everywhere, clouds of pink sprays and
+snowy petals charm the sight.
+
+"This last item, like a long, ornamental flourish, must conclude my
+summing up of the distribution of crops, the division of forest, pasture
+and fruit lands, over the whole farm; with its complete chain of
+financial resources, and its outlook for the coming season. I hope I
+have not made my recapitulation too lengthy! Also, that I have succeeded
+in answering your questions satisfactorily."
+
+"Your summing up has shown surprising results! The magnitude of the cash
+income, is really a crown of triumph for co-operative farming! I
+congratulate you, and the people of Solaris, most heartily! In justice
+to the able answers to my questions, I must say that many times you have
+answered, even before I could frame them into words. With each
+succeeding reply, my wonder and delight has increased. I have discovered
+many new possibilities, in pleasant, productive and profitable methods
+for farm work, of which I have never before dreamed. Now that you have
+made them plain to me in such a charming manner; I am beginning to
+understand how it is, that Solaris can produce such quantities of
+marketable goods, that can so easily be turned into cash. I have yet a
+number of important questions remaining unanswered, but they do not
+pertain to growing crops."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+SOCIAL SOLUTIONS.
+
+
+"I now wish," said Fern, "to consider the social and domestic interests
+of the colony. How do you manage to keep up the necessary degree of
+cleanliness, demanded by perfect sanitation in the living rooms of the
+co-operators, without seriously disturbing the privacy of the family."
+
+"That is a delicate matter, which by choice of the co-operators
+themselves, easily adjusts itself to the requirements of the committee
+members, who are chosen to take charge of the tri-weekly scrubbing and
+sweeping. The detail for this work for each week, is made by the
+assignment committee.
+
+"They select from a class of workers, known as both skillful and
+trustworthy. All rooms which the occupants desire to have cleaned, are
+left open. All rooms that are found locked, are reported to the chairman
+of the committee, whose duty it is to inspect them at a later period,
+while the occupants are present. It is a matter which is well understood
+by the members of the company, that rooms not accessible to the regular
+cleaning force, must be kept sweet and tidy by the occupants themselves,
+during hours which might be otherwise devoted to rest, amusement or
+study.
+
+"Under the pressure of such conditions, even the most exclusive, soon
+voluntarily open all their rooms to the authorized force. Causes for
+complaint against any member of the sanitary, inspection or assignment
+committee, are corrected by the voters at monthly elections, held for
+the purpose of selecting new committees. This system so appeals to that
+innate sense of justice and harmony reigning in the hearts of our
+people, that after a few months of experience, they are ready to
+co-operate heartily in any sort of discipline which may be necessary to
+secure the welfare of the entire colony.
+
+"The peculiar charm of colony-life appeals to them so strongly, that to
+be voted out of the organization on account of violation of rules, or of
+any improper conduct, is universally considered as a most dreadful
+calamity. The possibility of such a fate, like some hidden spectre, acts
+as a restraining influence, which holds in check the most lawless,
+stubborn, or self-opinionated. It soon makes them zealous, peace-loving
+and obedient. Having once tasted the sweets of the co-operative system,
+they have a wholesome dread of being obliged to return to the cruel
+bitterness of the old competitive system!
+
+"Among the most potent charms which have proved so attractive to Solaris
+workers, is the condition of health, comfort and beauty, which surrounds
+the laborer in every department of the farm.
+
+"In store, work-shop, seed-room, dairy, mill, factory or packing-house,
+the rooms are large, the light is abundant, ventilation perfect,
+ceilings high; while both walls and ceilings are so beautifully and
+artistically decorated, that love for the beautiful in the esthetic
+nature, swells and grows to be a dominant passion. This passion soon
+takes hold of both heart and brain, becoming the foundation of a
+character-building-work of high order. Thus happily environed, our
+people feast their eyes and merrily sing away the hours, which are
+devoted to tasks they have learned to love. The tendency of these
+things, is ever toward the good, the right, the pure and true! Under
+such conditions, the demon of discontent, evil thinking and evil doing,
+cannot thrive! His power wanes, he flies to the more congenial
+surroundings which mark the dingy, ill smelling, overcrowded work-shops
+of the competitive system!
+
+"No wonder, when away from Solaris, our people are so anxious to return!
+They come back convinced, that they have fortunately escaped from the
+thralldom of a debasing, cruel system. A system which--utterly ignoring
+the sacredness of human life--in a frenzy of selfish greed, has, so far
+as the toilers of the world are concerned, turned the triumphs of modern
+civilization into the mockery of a bitter curse! As affecting
+themselves, our people perceive that, under the protecting mantle of
+financial conditions which prevail here at Solaris, they, as members of
+the company, are sure to secure every benefit, profit or advantage, that
+may flow from the use of the best and most expensive kinds of
+labor-saving machinery. Once aware of all the facts, thereafter, they
+cannot under any circumstances, be induced to return to employment under
+the old system.
+
+"The advantage in favor of co-operative work is so great, that among our
+women co-operators, there is a general desire to have it utilized to the
+utmost; especially in all kinds of housework. The introduction of such a
+wholesale system of house-cleaning, soon demands a better class of
+sweepers, to take the place of the housewife's broom and dust pan.
+
+"Large suction sweepers, worked by a powerful inhaling bellows, which
+swiftly and silently suck up, from carpet, furniture, and curtains, all
+particles of accumulated dust, are the perfected instruments chosen;
+unlike the ordinary dust-raising machines, which must be followed by an
+army of dusting cloths, these suction machines do perfect work, leaving
+the air of the renovated room pure, wholesome and fairly free from
+floating dust, with its accompanying cloud of disease-laden germs. Many
+similar accomplishments in other departments of housework, soon convince
+all opponents, that personal prejudice must not be allowed to interfere
+with the working of the system."
+
+"Pardon me Fillmore! If at this point I interrupt you, with a question
+which I wish to preface with this remark! In the estimation of most
+women, well-kept hands, are considered as a rule, to indicate the
+measure of the owners refinement. According to my judgment, there is
+nothing which so quickly destroys the contour and suppleness of the
+hands, and that much prized, white, velvety smoothness of skin, as
+dishwashing. As a matter of fact, the woman's self-respect is involved
+in the loss. For this reason, I believe women dislike that disagreeable
+part of housework more than any other. Premising that my theory is true,
+how can you manage this matter at Solaris, in order to avoid trouble?"
+
+"I accept your question as a welcome interruption! It gives me a chance
+to tell you more about our kitchen work, which I feel sure will interest
+you greatly!
+
+"For reasons which I shall state presently, our women workers do not
+desire to avoid frequent six-hour details as dishwashers at the
+restaurant. By our new methods, the task is easily and quickly
+accomplished.
+
+"The washers are not required to put their hands into hot or cold water
+during the process. Traveling carriers on either side of the dining
+rooms, run to and from the kitchen. In one, the food comes to the
+tables, in response to phone orders from the waiter. In the other, the
+dishes are returned to the kitchen. There, the washers scrape the bones
+and rejected food into the waiting barrels. These barrels when filled,
+go to the feeding yards of the pigs and poultry.
+
+"The dishes, after being scraped, are then placed in the washing
+machine. This machine, run by electric power, is a wide, deep,
+round-bottomed trough, built in a circle twenty feet in diameter. Along
+the bottom of this trough, is a moving track, which travels slowly
+around the circle with its train of metal carriers. On these carriers
+are placed the dishes as they come from the hands of the scrapers. When
+the carrier thus laden commences its circular journey, the
+dishes--placed well apart--are subjected to dashing jets of warm, soapy
+water, and then to more torrential jets of hot, and very hot pure water.
+
+"Comfortably seated, at convenient points around the machine, the
+washers control the force and quantity of the water jets, and whenever
+necessary, assist the cleansing process with their long-handled swabs.
+When this process is finished, the dishes arrive at the drying boards,
+so hot that by the time the wipers with their thick towels have placed
+them in the racks where they belong, all are perfectly clean and dry.
+
+"Our pots, sauce pans, stew pans and kettles, are all designed for
+electric cooking, and are made in shapes best adapted for easy cleaning.
+For these, an additional washing-sink is provided. Over this sink,
+connected with the electric wires, we have rigged three hanging
+spindles, of as many different sizes. These spindles can be raised or
+lowered by the operator, while they are in motion. Each spindle is
+armed on every side with loose wings of alternating wire scrapers and
+dish-cloths. The vessel to be cleansed is placed on the movable carrier
+at the bottom of the sink. Passing under a spindle of the proper size,
+the spindle is lowered, and at once begins to revolve with a strong,
+rotary pressure. This searching, chafing pressure, in connection with
+the hot-water jets, soon cleans and polishes the most obstinate among
+the kettles.
+
+"The kitchen and dish pantry combined, is a very large, well-lighted,
+well-ventilated room. This room is constantly kept sweet and comfortable
+by electric fans. The work is light, and never monotonous. Only two, of
+the six hours devoted to kitchen duty, are spent in the active work of
+dish washing. During the remaining hours, the washers take lessons in
+cookery, from the chief and the two assistants. These three important
+officials, are chosen from the ranks of competent volunteers. They are
+responsible for the kitchen work. They plan all the meals, and direct
+the work of the under cooks. The system soon comes to work like a charm!
+I can truthfully say, that it gives general satisfaction.
+
+"The success attending this extension of co-operative methods, to
+embrace the entire list of worry-producing details which belong to
+general house work, is hailed with delight by our matrons and maidens.
+They keenly appreciate the great blessing of this movement, which has
+rescued them from the harassing, health-destroying drudgery, of a house
+wife on a small farm. They well know the sad story, which comes from
+thousands of such farms, where isolated lives, overburden of cares and
+long hours of irritating, never-ending toil, have produced such fearful,
+mental depression, that as a result, we find six hundred farmers' wives,
+among the inmates of asylums for the insane, in each one of the States
+of Michigan and Kansas. The proportion for other agricultural States, is
+doubtless much the same. What a horrible array of statistics, this is to
+contemplate! What an indictment against existing agricultural
+conditions! What a sad fate, to overtake the mothers of so many sons and
+daughters of the farms of this Republic! Who can measure the intensity
+of the agony and suffering, these children may thus inherit! What
+possible argument, can speak more eloquently, or call more loudly, for
+the immediate adoption of co-operative farming by our agricultural
+people?
+
+"In the matter of frequent bathing to maintain personal cleanliness; the
+popularity, with both old and young, of our fine hot and cold, plunge,
+swimming and shower baths, free to all, which are kept open in
+connection with the laundry; proves conclusively, that the habit of
+cleanliness, like all other habits, is the result of environment; or in
+other words, of opportunity and the strong impulse of social example.
+
+"In treating your question as though it contained several sub-divisions,
+I may perhaps have made my answer too lengthy. Do you find it so?"
+
+"Oh no! On the contrary it is clear, brief, interesting and to the
+point! You have told me just what I most desired to know! I perceive
+that the practical working of a co-operative colony, answers a great
+many puzzling questions, which hitherto, we have passed by as hopeless
+problems. From the commencement of this work, I have been concerned,
+lest the discipline necessary to maintain a proper working harmony in
+such a large colony, should prove a fruitful source of discontent. I am
+rejoiced to find that my fears were groundless!
+
+"This brings me to my second question. Do you find homesickness among
+the colonists, a frequent cause of discontent?"
+
+"On the contrary, the number of such cases has been surprisingly small.
+Owing, doubtless, to the marked change from isolated conditions of small
+farm life, to the superior advantages for education, amusement, social
+enjoyment, and the all-pervading enthusiasm of congenial, co-operative
+work; which here at Solaris, leaves no time for such fits of brooding
+over the past, as usually result in that severe mental depression, which
+we call homesickness. Perhaps one individual in fifty, is so constituted
+that homesickness becomes a serious illness. In such cases, the
+executive committee is authorized to grant the necessary leave of
+absence. Always providing of course, that the applicant is willing to
+comply with a rule of the organization, which assigns the pay of the
+absentee to the general service fund, for the number of days such
+absence may continue. A strict observance of this rule, leaves no cause
+for complaint by those who remain.
+
+"In considering the question from another standpoint, we find the
+general tone and disposition of our people, has been raised to a much
+higher, happier pitch, by the evolution of the musical spirit,
+introduced and inspired by the work of the dancing and musical clubs.
+Stimulated by the prizes offered by the general manager, a great number
+of beautiful farm songs have been completed, and adapted to a large
+variety of farm work. These songs have been taken up by a goodly number
+of glee clubs, organized for the purpose from among those members of the
+musical club, who had the good fortune to possess a fine quality of
+voice.
+
+"Careful training and steady practice, soon enabled these lesser vocal
+organizations, to render the entire list of songs, with a mellow
+smoothness, an inspiring swing of rythm, and a well rounded tone of
+perfection, which was really quite surprising. These vocalists,
+scattered through the fifties and hundreds of farm workers in the hay,
+harvest, corn and cotton fields; the nursery, gardens, orchards and
+vineyards; the dairy, mills, factories and packing-houses; the brick
+works, mines and quarries; the workshops of the store, and the assembly
+meetings of the co-operators; became competent teachers, who, by their
+leadership and example, soon made it possible for every member of the
+colony, to master both words and music of all the songs. This course of
+vocal training proved so fascinating, that our people literally absorbed
+it! The children, even more quickly than the adults!
+
+"Thoroughly tested in the practical work of every department of the
+farm; the beneficial effect has proved a marvel, which has far exceeded
+the expectations of our musical enthusiasts. Many fine voices have been
+discovered, developed and trained. The benign influence of this musical
+wave, has shown a constant tendency to extend its sway in all
+directions. This blending of voices, has added a hitherto unknown zest
+to the work; and a stronger tie to every association connected with it.
+Best of all, as directly affecting the question under discussion! It has
+proved a most potent factor in driving away the spirit of ill-humor,
+inharmony, and discontent; also in breaking the charm of old
+associations, home ties, and retrospective, social memories, so
+conducive to attacks of homesickness. The exhilarating, helpful rythm,
+of these inspiring songs, has given an added force to the working power
+of the farm. It has largely reduced the fatigue, and increased the
+amount of work that can be performed in a given time. Further, we find
+the general mental, physical and spiritual health of our people,
+correspondingly improved.
+
+"A curious fact, is disclosed by these vocal experiments. It is this,
+that the vibration of musical tones, in the blending voices of a mixed
+multitude, produces a moral, mental and spiritual harmony, such as
+cannot be achieved in any other way. In point of fact, we get a
+composite expression of the highest soul element of the mass--a new
+phase of the exceeding fruitfulness of co-operative effort! It may be
+stated in conclusion, that there comes to the minds of our people, an
+added power, flowing from the general hypnotic effect, of harmonious
+co-operation. This power brings with it a right conception of human
+life, in which a certain amount of necessary, productive labor, becomes
+the keynote, which completes a perfect anthem, and more symmetrically
+rounds out the full measure, melody and grandeur, of an individual
+existence. What think you of these results?"
+
+"They are very wonderful indeed! They reflect much credit on the
+excellent work inspired by the dancing and musical clubs; also on the
+genius and culture of the vocalists, and the marvelous efficiency of a
+well-directed co-operative effort. This triumph in a new field, which so
+increases the possibilities of soul expression, suggests the use of
+music as a prime factor in all future systems for ethical culture.
+
+"Now Fillmore, please tell me. How has the example of Solaris farm,
+affected the industrial, social, and political situation in this town
+and county?"
+
+"The effect has been favorable in every way! The attractiveness of our
+social organization! the financial success which has crowned our farming
+and manufacturing operations; the opportunities offered for young men to
+learn so much of the industrial arts; the short hours of light labor;
+the long hours of leisure for rest, study and amusement; the
+educational, health-giving character, of the amusements; the
+fascination, of the club-system of education for adults; the
+irresistible charm, of the dancing and vocal entertainments; the
+generous wages paid to the co-operators, which affords for them such an
+abundant supply of food, clothing and books; the fine quality and
+perfect reliability of the large assortment of goods in the farm-store;
+the advantages of a rational scheme of insurance, which stands as an
+absolute safe-guard against accidents, sickness and old-age; the
+improved conditions for women, which largely relieves them from the
+irritating, nerve-destroying worry, of a constant burden of household
+cares; the fostering care for children, which insures for them ideal
+opportunities for birth, unfoldment and education; the manifest
+advantage of farming on a scale large enough to allow the use of the
+latest and best labor-saving machinery; the astonishing array of huge,
+modern barns, storing, curing and packing houses; the wonderful
+cheapness and utility of the electric power; the long list of farm
+implements, many of them especially invented, which followed the
+introduction of this magic-working power; the wide publicity given to
+these things through the columns of the Solaris Sentinel, our weekly
+farm paper, sent free to friends of the colonists, and to all who ask
+for it; considered altogether as a comprehensive whole, is a startling
+combination, which has arrested the attention, aroused the interest and
+provoked the astonishment of surrounding communities, far and near. As a
+consequence, our office has been overwhelmed with a flood of
+correspondence from interested enquirers, followed by an ever-increasing
+stream of visitors to Solaris, to see for themselves, the verity of this
+twentieth century model of farm innovation. In order to answer the great
+bulk of queries, emanating from these two sources, a series of articles
+describing the object and purpose, and explaining the details of the
+enterprise, has been prepared for the columns of the Sentinel. With an
+extra large edition of this newspaper, we are prepared to supply as many
+interested people as may apply.
+
+"The applications to join the company, made by progressive young farmers
+in this and adjacent counties, have become so frequent and persistent,
+that finally we have consented to prepare the leaders for another
+co-operative colony, which we propose to locate on a certain one, of the
+nine remaining Fenwick-farm-sites, which happens to be in this county,
+only ten miles distant from Solaris. This preparatory class, is limited
+to fifty people; one-half females, married couples ranging from eighteen
+to twenty-five years of age, preferred. The course for this class,
+contemplates one year of practical work, embracing all departments of
+the farm.
+
+"The membership of this class, was filled six months ago. Six months
+hence, the graduates will be prepared to organize the new colony. I am
+greatly interested in the scheme, and have promised to aid in every
+possible way.
+
+"To this body of pupils, is referred all applications from prospective
+co-operators. Judging from the mass of applications already accumulated,
+when the time of organization for the new colony arrives, the list of
+eligible applicants will probably contain a thousand names. The outlook
+for the new farm company, seems unusually bright!
+
+"Both board and tuition for these pupils, are donated by Solaris Farm.
+At the end of the year, $100 in Solaris scrip, will be paid to each one,
+as some sort of compensation for the year's work. This arrangement is
+accepted by the pupils, as fair and perfectly satisfactory.
+
+"Referring to the relations existing between the Solaris Farm Company,
+and the township and county officials. It is noteworthy, that no serious
+friction has arisen. One year ago, a large proportion of town officers,
+including the assessor, town clerk, magistrate and chairman of the Board
+of Supervisors, were chosen from Solaris. Owing to the small,
+much-scattered, population of this county, the present county sheriff,
+auditor and treasurer, are also Solaris co-operators. The manifest
+integrity of this institution, seems to be accepted by the voters of the
+county, as a guarantee of the honesty and ability of its members. The
+significance of this approval, so early in the history of the movement,
+augurs well for the future dominancy of our social and industrial
+system, as a political factor in both town and county.
+
+"The Solaris Company has erected a roomy, substantial building, for the
+use of the town officials, for which a moderate rent is paid from the
+town-treasury. The county officers have secured one hundred acres of
+land two miles from Solaris, just outside the farm limits. On this, they
+propose to erect a suitable brick building for the county offices. The
+farm company, now has the contract to furnish the brick and erect the
+building. Pending its completion, the county officials occupy rented
+quarters in Solaris, which is by far the largest business center in the
+county. From this statement of the situation, you will observe that our
+co-operative vote already holds a balance of power, which controls the
+policy of both town and county. With the advent of Colony number 2, the
+interests of co-operation in this county, are secure for all time.
+Meanwhile, we are encouraged to hope that before the close of the
+twentieth century, what co-operation has already achieved at Solaris,
+may be accomplished in every town, county and state in the Republic!
+
+"You ask, what disposition is made of the salaries of such co-operators
+as are elected to fill town and county offices?
+
+"They are paid in scrip. The salaries or fees which they receive from
+town or county, are turned into the company treasury. As these
+co-operators, in holding such offices, are in a position to materially
+aid the co-operative movement. They are justly excused from farm-work,
+whenever their official duties require attention."
+
+"Splendid! my dear Fillmore! Your report is very interesting, and even
+more encouraging! It seems the beginning of a fulfillment of my father's
+hopes, dreams and prophecies! I am anxious for the time to come, when he
+can tell you how much he is pleased with your work!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+SOLARIS SCRIP.
+
+
+"Returning again, Fillmore, to the financial operations of the farm;
+with such a volume of business to transact, how do you manage to get
+along without having recourse to some local bank?"
+
+"To a large extent, we do our own banking business. Our treasurer, has
+his office in the cash room of the store. In this room we have a large
+vault, containing a fire-proof safe of the latest type. The books,
+records and funds of the company, are all kept in this safe. For our
+commercial business, we have selected one of the principal banks of St.
+Louis as our bank of deposit. A large percentage of purchases for the
+store and farm are made in that city, which is also a market for the
+bulk of our farm produce.
+
+"The farm company has an office near the bank, where some member of the
+executive committee, or other representative of the company, may be
+found every business day of the year. It is the duty of this agent to
+attend to purchases, consignments and sales; also to have charge of all
+business transacted through the bank of deposit. Taking care, to keep
+the amount of available funds up to the ten thousand dollar mark. To do
+this, it sometimes becomes necessary for the company to issue drafts on
+the bank of deposit for thirty, sixty and ninety days. These drafts are
+accepted by dealers, for purchases made in Chicago, Cincinnati,
+Philadelphia or New York, the same as cash.
+
+"As borrowers, our only dealings have been with you. In these dealings,
+at times when much in need of more capital, we have not been required to
+pay interest. Now, having returned our borrowed capital, and being free
+from debt, we have grown more independent and self-sustaining; therefore
+more averse to the idea of paying interest to any one. We are convinced
+by past experience, that all necessity for incurring interest-bearing
+obligations can be avoided. The use of Solaris Scrip in all
+intercolonial transactions, has proved a most potent factor in helping
+us to arrive at such a fortunate conclusion. By its use, ninety per cent
+of our business can be transacted on a cash basis, without using one
+cent of actual cash. In addition, we can use it as a basis on which to
+borrow. To illustrate! Suppose we need ten thousand dollars to replenish
+the stock of goods in the store, pending the sale of products on hand.
+We borrow that amount from the insurance fund, the sum being part of the
+accumulated profits on sales at the store and restaurant. We then
+replace this sum by scrip of the same face value. This scrip, to the
+pensioner or beneficiaries, is the same as cash. When they have drawn
+and spent it, the debt is cancelled. No interest is paid. The store and
+restaurant become the clearing house, through which these drafts against
+the resources of the farm are liquidated. In the same way, temporary
+loans can be made from other funds, whenever it is for the benefit of
+the united interests of the co-operators to do so.
+
+"How is it possible, you ask, to keep perfect control of such a large
+issue of scrip, with a certainty that all in use is genuine?
+
+"That is a matter which is easily regulated by our simple system of
+issue. In the first place, we print the scrip here at Solaris, from
+plates which, when not in use, are kept in the safe, in the custody of
+the treasurer. The five denominations issued, are as follows: five, two,
+and one dollar bills; which, together with the fifty and
+twenty-five-cent, fractional-currency scrip, make up the list. Every
+denomination has a numbered series, of ten thousand. Each series, with
+the stubs attached to the bills, is bound in book form. When issued,
+each stub remaining in the book, will show the date of issue, serial
+number, and amount of the issued bill. When cancelled, the bills are
+returned to the book, and again attached to the stub to which they
+belong. At any time, an examination of the books of issued and unissued
+scrip in the hands of the treasurer, will give the amount outstanding.
+The co-operators are requested to keep a record of the serial numbers of
+the scrip they hold or handle, and to report the loss or destruction of
+such as may happen. A history of the loss is attached to the stub, and
+the amount of the bill carried to the profit and loss account of the
+company.
+
+"If the genuineness of any piece of scrip should be questioned, a
+comparison with the stub should show the same date, number, amount and
+serrated edges, made by the peculiar pattern of the perforator belonging
+to that series. If so, the bill must be genuine. As time passes, we are
+more than ever convinced of the wonderful advantage gained by the use of
+this scrip. Our people find it much lighter and more desirable to carry
+and use, than the same amount of gold or silver coin; therefore they
+frequently request to be allowed to exchange coin for scrip. In summing
+up my replies to your questions: it seems probable, from the constantly
+increasing volume of business, that the company will soon be obliged to
+take a charter that will authorize it to do a complete banking
+business."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+THE INSURANCE OFFERED BY CO-OPERATIVE FARMING.
+
+
+"I notice, Fillmore, that you mention the borrowing of ten thousand
+dollars from the insurance fund; the same being a part of the
+accumulated profits on the business of the store and restaurant. Tell
+me; how is it possible for so large a sum to be saved in such a short
+time?"
+
+"A complete answer to your question, will bring up the whole subject of
+insurance; which presents some interesting problems. I will first try to
+give you the basis for such an amount of savings. The net per-diem pay
+of $2.50 for each adult member of the company, will give an annual
+income of a little more than $900. If we include an added pro rata for
+the children, each one will spend annually at least $450 with the store
+for goods; and $350 with the restaurant for food. Our statistics show
+much larger sums; but these will do for an estimate. Taking these
+figures for a basis, we find that the annual sales made to our own
+people by the store and restaurant combined, reach the startling sum of
+$400,000. A net profit of five per cent on this amount, gives $20,000
+each year to the insurance fund. At this rate, the profits for thirty
+months, reach the goodly sum of $50,000. To which we may add $2,500
+more, as profits on sales to the amount of $50,000, made during that
+period by the store and restaurant, to people from surrounding
+communities. Altogether, we have a grand up-to-date total for the
+insurance fund of $52,500. These profits will continue to increase with
+larger sales to outside people; also with the increased wages or incomes
+of the co-operators, as the products and profits of the farm continue to
+grow.
+
+"Such favorable statistics are very encouraging. They demonstrate that
+only a five per cent profit will be needed, to meet all future demands
+against the insurance fund, even when the colony has its maximum number
+of children and superannuated co-operators. The remaining profits, which
+in some departments of the store are large, may wisely be devoted to
+educational and missionary work.
+
+"From another point of view, this eloquent array of figures, has an
+additional value. They show conclusively, that the restaurant alone
+furnishes a home market annually for $175,000 worth of farm produce:
+beef, mutton, pork, lard, honey, syrup, milk, butter, cheese, eggs,
+poultry, vegetables, fruits and grains.
+
+"If we consider the sales made by the store, we find after deducting the
+cost of raw material, that at least fifty per cent of the goods
+purchased by our people, are really the products of the skilled labor of
+the farm: such as crockery, furniture, willow ware, picture frames,
+brushes, clothing, underwear, bed furnishings, and goods from the
+tailoring, dress-making and millinery departments. From this showing it
+will appear, that the store becomes a home market each year, for farm
+products to the amount of $112,500. To this, let us add the sums of
+sales through the restaurant, and those made through the markets of the
+outside world. Altogether, we have a grand total of $787,500 for the
+market value of farm products last year.
+
+"Does this exhibit appeal to you as a reasonable basis for the
+accumulated savings named in your questions?"
+
+"I am sure the exhibit has astonished me greatly! Your figures and
+statements are both fascinating and convincing. They are all, most
+excellent arguments in favor of co-operative methods. I now perceive
+that even on the basis of present conditions, a five per cent profit
+turned into the insurance fund, at the end of the first ten years, will
+amount to the extraordinary sum of $200,000. With this magnificent fund,
+you can afford to extend the scope of your original plan! How will you
+dispose of it? At what age do you propose to retire the active workers?"
+
+"Yes, our original plans have been changed, and very much enlarged. The
+insurance fund has grown so rapidly, that it was deemed wise to expend a
+portion of it, in building a hospital for the accommodation of our farm
+people, and perhaps a few outside patients. Last year, a two-story and
+basement brick building, was erected just in the heart of our finest
+shrubbery dotted lawn, some distance from the public square. It is large
+enough for about one hundred patients. Viewed from any point, it
+presents a charming appearance. It is conceded by all to be the
+handsomest structure on the farm. Inside, with its polished floors,
+magnificent windows, large rooms, high, beautifully frescoed walls and
+ceilings, dainty couches, cozy chairs, and wide, breezy halls, with
+picture-laden walls; every condition is present to satisfy the highest
+ideal of sick-room comfort. Brighter, sunnier, more health-inspiring
+rooms never soothed, charmed or healed a nerve shattered patient!
+
+"Under the supervision of the sanitary committee, the hospital at
+present, is in charge of a young surgeon employed by the company. His
+services are utilized in teaching and preparing a class of trained
+nurses. He also teaches the members of the chemistry and physiology
+clubs, in their new study rooms at the hospital. At a later period this
+surgeon will be superseded by two of our own people. A young woman and a
+young man, both with some previous knowledge of pharmacy, who have been
+in charge of the drug department at the store; have recently developed a
+strong desire to take a thorough course of medicine and surgery at some
+leading school. Upon the recommendation of the general manager, approved
+by a unanimous vote of the co-operators, the expense of this schooling
+is to be taken from the insurance fund, with the understanding however,
+that after graduating, they are to relieve the company of the expense of
+a hired surgeon, by taking permanent charge of the hospital, or as our
+people have christened it, the 'Temple of health.'
+
+"Relative to the question of retiring members of the company; much
+thought and discussion on the part of our officers and co-operators, has
+been required, to properly and wisely fix the age at which such
+retirement shall take place.
+
+"Many important questions have been considered. Our present colony, as
+you know, is composed of young people, as a rule not yet thirty years of
+age. Individually they possess strong, disease-resisting, vital
+organizations, which have been reinforced by harmonious, mental and
+physical development. This immunity from disease to such a large extent,
+has been still further strengthened and fortified, by the beneficial
+effects of our organized sanitary, social and industrial methods. These
+methods have lifted the weary burden of toil from our people, and
+substituted therefor, a light exhilarating labor, simply healthful
+exercise. Under such favorable conditions, our workers ought to reach
+the age of fifty, with health and vigor still unimpaired. For the
+reasons named, very few of our co-operators, outside the ranks of the
+mother's club, are at present entitled on account of either illness or
+accident, to draw their wages from the insurance fund. Fortunately, so
+far, not one has become permanently disabled! All things considered, it
+was not unexpected, when a final vote on the question was taken, that a
+majority was found to be in favor of fixing the age of retirement at
+fifty years.
+
+"This decision will give the farm company, twenty years in which to
+prepare for the event. In the light of our past experience, no one
+doubts our ability to accumulate an adequate fund, with which to meet
+the additional drain upon it. This drain will prove a heavy one, as the
+retired pay of the co-operators, who have reached the age of fifty, has
+been fixed at two-thirds of their present pay, that is, fifty dollars
+per month or $600 per annum. Premising that the maximum number on the
+retired list at any one time will not exceed fifty; the total annual
+retired pay will then amount to $30,000.
+
+"The following plan has been devised to meet this additional
+expenditure. It has been demonstrated conclusively, that five years
+hence, the income of the farm, will warrant the increase of the wages of
+each member of the company, to $1,500 per year. At least $1,200 of this
+amount, will be spent at the store or restaurant. We shall then have a
+new basis for calculating the five per cent profit for the insurance
+fund; that is, $600,000 annually, which will give $30,000 each year for
+the fund. Allowing that savings at the present rate, $20,000 per annum,
+for seven and one-half years, aggregating $150,000; will prove ample for
+incidental needs, until the time for the retirement of the first
+co-operator! We calculate that fifteen years of savings on the new
+basis, will give us twenty years hence, a fund of $450,000 to commence
+with.
+
+"If practical experience should prove that larger savings are necessary;
+an additional two and one-half per cent profit, may be set aside for
+this fund, without seriously curtailing the sums devoted to educational
+and missionary purposes. This will surely cover all possible
+contingencies. More especially, as seven and one-half per cent of all
+retired pay, will come back to the fund as profits on purchases--active
+workers having taken the place of the retired members. Considering the
+generous annuity provided by this insurance, together with the fact that
+the wants of the pensioners will become fewer as age increases;
+doubtless, at the end of each year, many of them will turn back into the
+fund, considerable sums of unused pay.
+
+"As another important factor, connected with the question of this kind
+of insurance, it should be well understood, that after reaching the age
+of retirement, our members do not cease to be valuable productive
+workers, either for the financial gain of the colony, or for the general
+welfare of the movement, which the colony represents. On the contrary,
+in many cases, their services are liable to become more valuable than
+ever before. Between the ages of fifty and sixty, they remain subject
+to assignments to serve on committees, to act as traveling agents for
+the company, to represent the company as lecturers and organizers, for
+the spread of the movement; to act as aids to the teachers in the
+schools and the numerous clubs. They are also eligible to election as
+town, county, state or United States officials. In committee work,
+connected with the store and the various factories, their riper
+judgment, based on many years of experience, would prove especially
+valuable: often by timely advice, they would be able to save for the
+company in one transaction, an amount in money more than equal to their
+entire wages for the year.
+
+"In another way their services would prove equally advantageous. With
+such an increase of leisure, there would come to these retired
+co-operators, a desire, and the opportunity, to enter more actively into
+the practical work of the scientific clubs. If inclined, they could take
+up all kinds of scientific research; making themselves especially useful
+in the practical, productive and profitable work of the educational,
+microscopical, chemical and photographic clubs. Those who had a talent
+for invention, could then devote as much time, energy and thought to it,
+as they chose. To aid them, they would have the advantage of an acquired
+skill in the use of tools, and of all kinds of complicated machinery,
+which would be a part of the outfit belonging to the thoroughly equipped
+machine shop at their disposal. In the laboratory, they could find the
+books, maps, and drawings, necessary to bring them up to date in any
+line of invention which they might choose to enter.
+
+"Taking these important factors into consideration, we discover that
+our co-operative inventor, would be armed to conquer his subject by a
+magnificent equipment, such as an ordinary inventor could not hope to
+command.
+
+"So ably reinforced by the advantages enumerated, our corps of
+inventors, of both sexes, would be inspired by a labor of love. Unbiased
+by any selfish motives, they would be working for the farm and for
+humanity. With no cause to distrust their fellows, they could openly
+discuss their discoveries, without fear of having them stolen;
+consequently, they could have the willing assistance of all the
+inventive minds in the colony, in developing and perfecting their
+original inventions. This would be an experience utterly unheard of, in
+the annals of an industry based on the competitive system. It would be
+the beginning of co-operative invention as an art. It would mark another
+great step in harmonious, practical and profitable co-operative
+thinking, that would lead to discoveries of vast importance to the
+world; discoveries that could not be made in any other way. It is
+difficult for even the most enthusiastic optimist to imagine, what a
+revolution in the inventive world, will follow the introduction of such
+superior co-operative methods; or what wonders will be wrought by them,
+before the close of the first half of the twentieth century!
+
+"Let us consider what they might do for our superannuated farmers.
+Quickened by such an added potency of perfect, co-operative, mental,
+conditions, our inventors would naturally aspire to still higher
+achievements. Each year they would be able to produce many valuable
+inventions, which could not be used by the farm, but which could be sold
+by the company after being patented, for good round sums in cash! In
+this way it becomes evident, that our old members might prove the most
+prolific cash producers on the farm. It is even possible, and quite
+probable, that the sale of one invention, might bring to the company, a
+sum of money, more than equal to the combined pensions of the retired
+co-operators for one year. From this particular source, would flow an
+additional fund for educational work in pushing the movement before the
+public.
+
+"Viewed in this light, to be retired on two-thirds pay at the age of
+fifty, is simply a matter of justice! When justice is done, the mission
+of charity is finished!
+
+"In considering the growing interest in the insurance question among
+people of the outside world, we find great numbers of laboring people,
+and of small farmers everywhere, who are beginning to understand that it
+is a question of vital importance, an open gateway through which they
+may gain access to the broad fields of abundance. Every day, both by
+observation and experience, they are taught that without the aid of some
+special insurance, nine out of ten who start in business fail. Also,
+that nine farmers out of ten, who start with a meagre capital, after
+twenty years of constant toil, find themselves the slaves of some money
+lender who holds a mortgage on the farm. These mortgages are largely the
+result of a hopeful struggle on the farmer's part, in a last vain effort
+to compete with the expensive methods of syndicate and bonanza farms.
+
+"No wonder the average worker is anxious to discover some method of
+insurance, that will safe-guard him against the disasters which have
+overwhelmed so many of his predecessors! No wonder these workers come to
+believe it possible, that out of a given number of say one thousand
+men, who start in life without capital, except such as they possess in
+ordinary health and strength; at least fifty per cent are liable to die
+in the poor-house, or in some way become helpless dependents on charity!
+Against such an alarming proposition, the average optimist or plutocrat,
+cries out, impossible! No, No! In this Republic, such things could never
+happen! Besides, how preposterous! Don't you know, that the general
+prosperity of the country was never greater than now! Why the wealth of
+the nation is growing at a marvelous rate! Never before, were fortunes
+made so easily! The way is open for every industrious man; no matter how
+poor he may be at the start. If people come to want in the midst of such
+golden opportunities, they have only themselves to blame.
+
+"By way of an answer to these optimistic assertions, let us apply the
+figures collected by Prof. A. G. Warner, published in his 'American
+Charities.' In this book he has tabulated the results of fifteen
+investigations, both in this country and abroad, into the actual causes
+of poverty. These investigations embrace over one hundred thousand
+individual cases, found in the cities of Baltimore, New York, Boston,
+Cincinnati, London, England, and seventy-six cities in Germany. In the
+causes of poverty stated, eleven per cent are due to intemperance, ten
+and three-tenths per cent to other kinds of misconduct; while
+seventy-four and four-tenths per cent are due to misfortune, such as
+poorly-paid work, lack of work, sickness, etc. Here, we have actual
+proof that seventy-five thousand in the ranks of this vast army of
+poverty-stricken people, were reduced to such straits, by causes which
+they could not control. How dreadful the significance of these terrible
+figures! What a blot they become, on the fair page of progress achieved
+by the nineteenth century! What a warning to the people of the
+twentieth! What an indictment against existing, social, and industrial
+conditions! What argument could be more convincing, or demand more
+imperatively, the immediate adoption of co-operative methods, which
+offer absolute insurance against the recurrence of such calamities?
+
+"As relating to the insurance question, and by the way of a contrast
+between competitive and co-operative methods, let us consider the
+following statement.
+
+"We learn from statistics, that for the family of a skilled workman of
+the better class--a family of five persons--the average annual cost of
+living is $420. This includes food, shelter, raiment, fuel, laundry,
+light, water, medical attendance, medicine, education and recreation.
+
+"Under the competitive system, to earn this sum required, on the part of
+the adults and such of the children as were able to work, the continuous
+toil of three hundred days, twelve hours long--counting the possible
+workers of the family as three, and the labor day as twelve hours
+long--we have in the aggregate, say eleven thousand weary hours of this
+nerve depressing labor. A labor often performed in the midst of the most
+repulsive and unsanitary conditions; to which the toilers were
+constantly goaded by the cruel spur of necessity. This is a picture of
+the living expenses and daily working life of a family of the superior
+class, far above the average among the workers under the competitive
+system.
+
+"To illustrate what the co-operative system can do, let us transfer the
+account of this family, to a co-operative agricultural colony like this.
+On the basis of three hundred days of labor annually, we should have
+daily for the two adults--the children being in school--six hours of
+productive labor and two hours of educative labor, an aggregate of four
+thousand, eight hundred hours, of work for the year. This work would be
+separated by such generous periods of rest and recreation, and performed
+amidst such pleasant surroundings, that the worker could truthfully
+count them as so many hours spent in necessary healthful exercise.
+
+"As a result of this labor, we could place the annual income of the
+family at $1,800. All available, for providing the very best of food,
+shelter, clothing, heat, light, laundry, hospital service, medical
+attendance, medicine, education and amusement. Also superior social
+surroundings, with increased facilities for being well born; with
+educative advantages, embracing a higher order of intellectual
+amusements, art-culture, musical training, and industrial skill.
+
+"In addition, the family would enjoy a savings account of generous
+proportions, represented by the constantly increasing value of the farm,
+its stock, crops, buildings, store and goods, material, machinery,
+industrial plants, orchards, vineyards and forests.
+
+"Still better! They would have savings in the sinking fund, providing
+land, and homes for their children and grand-children in a long line of
+future generations.
+
+"Best of all! This family would have savings in the insurance fund,
+providing for an old age of ease and comfort, free from care, sweetened
+and brightened by leisure, travel and the refinements of study, art and
+music!
+
+"In striking a balance between these two accounts, we discover a
+difference in favor of the co-operative system, with its magical
+insurance, which is wider, deeper and more startling than the difference
+between the illustrations of Dante's Inferno, and the descriptions of
+Milton's paradise!
+
+"A careful study of this insurance question, has taught our people many
+valuable lessons. They have learned to consider from a new standpoint,
+the object and purpose of life, and the amount of work necessary to
+support that life.
+
+"They have learned that poverty is a needless crime against progress,
+which can and must be abolished!
+
+"They have learned, that in these days of general prosperity, marked by
+a wealth of labor-saving machinery, never before dreamed possible,
+co-operation has demonstrated, that an average of but six hours each
+day, devoted to farm work, will abundantly supply the means which will
+yield them, the highest advantages of birth, education, amusement, and
+everything necessary to a healthful enjoyment of life.
+
+"They have learned that the true purpose of work, is not to make and
+hoard money; but to secure these advantages for themselves and their
+children.
+
+"They have learned that money is not a necessity; that it is only the
+means to an end. They have learned that confidence in each other, among
+members of a co-operative colony, working unselfishly together, largely
+takes the place of money.
+
+"They have learned that practical education equips them with a
+knowledge, of how to deal justly with each other, in all the social
+relations of life.
+
+"They have learned that the pathway which leads to success, in winning
+the largest measure of all these advantages, is reached by adopting
+unselfish methods, which will insure the welfare of all. They have
+learned that this condition may be attained by building up co-operative
+systems that furnish remunerative self employment, and at the same time
+enables them to enjoy free access to the natural sources of life.
+
+"They have learned that this free access cannot be secured, without
+first obtaining permanent control of the necessary tracts of land, not
+less than ten acres per capita. They have learned that these tracts
+should contain at least five thousand acres, in order to properly
+support an industrial co-operative colony of one thousand people.
+
+"They have learned that the social, ethical and intellectual advantages
+offered to the individual, by this co-operative colony life, are even
+greater than those relating to the question of finance.
+
+"They have learned, that when selfish distrust of each other is once
+banished from the minds of the workers by the force of repeated examples
+of co-operative success; then, it will be practical and easy to organize
+the farms and farm laborers of this Republic, with its army of the poor
+and the unemployed of every class, into systems of co-operative farm
+villages, or similar industrial associations.
+
+"In this knowledge our people rejoice! They are filled with an unselfish
+desire to spread the good news broadcast! Can you, my dear Fern! imagine
+for them, a purpose in life more noble or more worthy?"
+
+"No, my dear Fillmore! I cannot! So eloquently have you stated the
+case, that the outlook for the future is glorious! How graphically you
+have pictured the growing importance of this question of insurance! I am
+amazed, and more deeply interested than ever! I never before dreamed it
+possible, that the co-operative farm could offer so much defense against
+the calamities of life, which grow out of the pinching pressure of
+poverty!
+
+"The scheme for providing for the members of the Mother's Club, and for
+retiring co-operators at the age of fifty, meets my enthusiastic
+approval! I am sure it will commend itself to the workers and thinkers
+of the world! To me, it seems admirable, from every point of view!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+THE MOTHER'S CLUB.
+
+
+"Mark it well, Fillmore! I have now reached a very important question.
+What have you to tell me about stirpiculture, as a part of the
+co-operative farm movement?"
+
+"As a basis for the preliminary work, we have been following carefully,
+the suggestions of your father, Fennimore Fenwick. You will remember, my
+dear Fern, that they were to the effect, that the children of the farm,
+should be the crowning glory of all its products; that it should be the
+province of the corporation to provide for the children of the
+co-operators, every advantage of favorable pre-natal conditions, birth,
+unfoldment and education, that money could procure for the wealthy.
+Therefore, that ideal environments for mothers and motherhood, must be
+created and maintained.
+
+"In order to carry out these epoch-making ideas, such of our matrons as
+are willing to assume the conditions, responsibilities, and cares of
+motherhood, are relieved from all farm work, at any time they may chose.
+However, much of the work is so enjoyable, and affords so much pleasant
+exercise, that many of them become volunteers. Meanwhile, they are paid
+regular wages from our insurance fund. With this abundant leisure and
+freedom from care, they are prepared to become zealous workers in the
+Mother's Club.
+
+"Our Mother's Club at Solaris, was organized by Gertrude Gerrish, as the
+fulfillment of a long cherished dream. She has reason to be proud of her
+work! Like that other Gertrude, made so famous by Pestalozzi's charming
+story, Gertrude Gerrish is a born teacher, an ideal mother, one of
+nature's noble women. Much of the success attained by the club, is due
+to her wonderful power as a leader. Her enthusiasm is infectious. It has
+carried all obstacles before it. To this self appointed task, she has
+given her best energies, a rich harvest of ripe experience, with its
+fruitage of earnest thought, radiant and glowing with the genial
+influence of her sunny temperament, and withal, rendered more potent, by
+an overflowing love from the deep fountain of her great mother heart. Is
+it a matter of wonder, that she is such a general favorite with club
+members! Her word they accept as law. Her suggestions as commands.
+
+"To Gertrude Gerrish, motherhood was a holy and sacred office, which
+demanded from its devotees, a season of careful preparation, and a
+thorough knowledge of the physiological and psychological laws, which
+govern that life-evolving function, that crowning glory of womanhood.
+She seemed to be inspired with the idea, that progress has ordained,
+that unwilling, ignorant and accidental mothers, must be replaced by
+those who are predetermined, properly educated and fully prepared. These
+ideas, she has endeavored to impress most forcibly, upon the minds of
+all club members. She has also taught them the importance of maintaining
+joyous, healthful, mental conditions; consequently, of carefully
+avoiding all emotions of selfishness, cruelty, anger, envy, or
+melancholy. In this connection, for the purpose of creating in the minds
+of our club mothers, as many good and pleasurable emotions as possible,
+and of repeating these anabolic emotions so often, that they may become
+dominant during the entire gestative period; Gertrude Gerrish has wisely
+planned for them, a great deal of open air exercise, study and
+amusement.
+
+"The study of botany, and botanizing parties, have become very popular.
+These prospective mothers, have quickly learned how to amuse themselves,
+by combining study with pleasure. When organized into congenial outing
+parties, almost every fine day they may be found, seated in the
+luxuriously appointed motor carriages which belong to the club, ready
+for a lively spin away to the woods. This gives them an opportunity to
+enjoy the pure air and bright sunshine, the wide, undulating landscape,
+tinted by the exquisite coloring of every flowering plant, shrub and
+tree. How delightful to them, is the restful green of dewy meadows; the
+sweet music of birds, the charming chatter and playful antics, of the
+swift-footed squirrels! How grateful, the leafy coolness and bracing
+ozone of the forest; the dancing shadows of its deep glens, with their
+garnered treasures of mosses and ferns! How inspiring, the merry tinkle
+of the clear streamlet, swiftly flowing over its rocky bed; or the
+louder roar of the rushing waterfall, where drooping boughs glisten and
+sparkle with spray-laden foliage! All these, are nature's matchless
+charms, which appeal to our young mothers in their best moments, their
+most responsive moods; banishing all thoughts of evil, awakening in
+their hearts, new spiritual impulses, feelings of worshipful adoration;
+emotions of the highest and purest order. Than this, nothing could prove
+more helpful in maintaining perfect conditions of mental and spiritual
+serenity.
+
+"Inhaling the pure, invigorating air of the country, far from the dust
+and filth, the smoke and poisonous gases, the turmoil and strife, the
+ceaseless din, the selfishness and sin of the great city, close to the
+fostering bosom of mother earth, under a broad dome of blue sky, bathed
+in floods of golden sunlight, exulting in the exuberance of perfect
+health, these grateful young mothers, realize how much they owe to the
+co-operative farm movement, for surrounding them with such ideal
+conditions of life.
+
+"They realize, the great, good fortune of children, who are born and
+reared in the midst of such delightful environments. They perceive, with
+a keen sense of sorrow, that children who are born and bred away from
+these rural conditions, are robbed of more than one-half their natural
+rights. They realize, more than ever before, the filth, the misery, the
+squalor, the fetid air, and the unsanitary conditions, of our great
+cities. They shudder, when they contemplate, the bitterness of the
+misfortune, the cruelty of the deprivation, of the great mass of
+children, who must be born and bred in the midst of such depressing,
+unhealthy surroundings. They know intuitively, that only a puny, sickly,
+half-developed race of people, can come from such a sad birth. Under
+such circumstances, they do not wonder, that fully one-third of the
+human family, die in infancy.
+
+"Indoors, the handsomely furnished, beautifully decorated club rooms,
+which are located in the kindergarten building, offer the maximum of
+elegance and comfort to club members. There, in harmonious groups, they
+may engage in conversation, study, writing, musical exercises, and other
+varieties of club work. The esthetic tastes of the members are
+quickened, and their pleasures much enhanced, by the fine display of oil
+paintings, water colors, pencil sketches, etchings, and photographs,
+which have been hung on the walls, by admiring friends from the art and
+photography clubs. It has been the chosen work of the last named club,
+to supply the center tables in the reading rooms, with a series of large
+portfolios, containing a choice collection of finely finished,
+beautifully mounted photographs. This collection is varied, unique and
+valuable; and withal, exceedingly interesting. It embraces artistic
+copies of the world's finest statuary, pictures of eminent men, noted,
+historic buildings, rare landscapes and most picturesque scenery. These,
+supplemented by an abundant supply of choice books, furnish excellent
+conditions, and a most fascinating incentive, for a harmonious,
+satisfying, self-culture, of the highest type. Under the able leadership
+of Gertrude Gerrish, the interest shown, the enthusiasm awakened, and
+the progress achieved, is something remarkable.
+
+"Thus prepared, the members find themselves on a higher mental and
+spiritual plane of existence, where they can appreciate the
+possibilities, of what may be accomplished by true motherhood, as a
+regenerator of society. They can understand the significance of the
+great lesson taught by history, which is, that all progress for the
+race, depends upon the elevation, education and refinement, achieved by
+woman. With quickened vision, they can perceive, that with the dawn of
+the twentieth century, comes the beginning of a new cycle in the life of
+the planet; the commencement of woman's golden era! In the higher light
+of such a vision, they become aware, that they must strive continually,
+for more wisdom, that they may reach a higher consciousness of
+individual responsibility, as keepers and guardians of the sacred temple
+of human life.
+
+"In the preparatory work for a progressive parentage, club members are
+taught, that prospective fathers and mothers, must become familiar with
+the sciences, the industrial, and the higher arts, if they wish their
+children to inherit, whatever intellectual progress, they as parents,
+may achieve. The new psychology, with a better knowledge of nature's
+evolutionary methods, declares, that these trained intellectual
+attributes, may be transmitted to offspring, if the parents are willing
+to prepare themselves, to respond to the demands of natural law.
+
+"In the domain of more practical club work, the members are taught how
+to prepare the diet and clothing, which may be necessary for the proper
+care of healthy nursing mothers and infants. They are also taught the
+hygiene and physiology of motherhood; in addition, as much as possible,
+about the laws that govern the procreative body of woman, when it
+becomes the temple of evolving life. In connection therewith, they are
+instructed to observe closely, the initial and pre-natal conditions,
+which dominate this primal stage of embryo life.
+
+"As a result of this comprehensive course of training, our young mothers
+soon find themselves, inspired by a hypnotic wave of enthusiasm, which
+is sure to follow many days of pleasant association, discussion, and
+systematic study. Stimulated by this enthusiasm, and aided by the
+potency of co-operative thinking, they endeavor to discover new avenues,
+through which they may reach and maintain, better physical, mental and
+spiritual conditions, which shall bring them into a more perfect
+harmony, with the laws of unfoldment which govern planetary evolution.
+The success, which has rewarded their efforts in this direction, has far
+exceeded, even the ambitious hopes of Gertrude Gerrish.
+
+"For the purpose of preserving a series of valuable records, for the
+benefit of this and coming generations; club members are urged to put in
+writing, such ideas as may come to them, as the result of individual
+thought, or from co-operative study, discussion and observation. These
+papers are carefully condensed, sifted, classified, and placed in proper
+record form, by the editing committee of the club. This committee, is
+also instructed to prepare short extracts, essays and descriptive
+articles relating to club work, for publication in the mothers' column
+of the Solaris Sentinel.
+
+"This outline sketch, my dear Fern, will give you some idea of the scope
+of the work, in which, I know you are greatly interested. In brief, it
+means a practical illustration, of the use of scientific methods, for
+improving the race. The club hopes to give a satisfactory answer to the
+great question, of how to be well born. It will strive to convince the
+world, that the time has arrived, in which the twentieth century demands
+the immediate introduction of a scientific system, for the thorough
+breeding of children as a fine art. The art of all arts! The highest of
+all possible achievements!
+
+"Hitherto, the world's people, in trying to accumulate riches, or to
+escape the poorhouse, have had neither time nor inclination, to consider
+this most important of all questions. As a matter of fact, greed for
+gold has become so dominant, human life, so cheap, and its progress
+through culture, held in such low estimation; that it is not unusual,
+not even a matter of comment, to hear of a wealthy stockbreeder, who
+willingly pays from ten to twenty thousand dollars a year to the trainer
+of his horses; while he grudgingly pays five hundred dollars a year to
+the teacher of his children. This would indicate, that the demand for a
+change is imperative. The great wave of evolutionary progress, is fast
+rising to a flood tide! The selfish, commercial spirit, born of the
+competitive system, must soon give way for something better! The advent
+of a system of unselfish, co-operative farming, which proposes to unite
+a rational agriculture, with a scientific stirpiculture, offers
+opportunities for substantial progress, and a new hope for the coming
+race."
+
+"This is exceedingly interesting, Fillmore! What additional work, has
+Gertrude Gerrish planned for the club members?"
+
+"A great deal more than I have time to enumerate, just now! However, by
+the way of an illustration of her ingenious methods, and also, of the
+great variety of the topics introduced, all of which really belong to
+the work, as an integral part of the movement. I may mention the latest
+scheme introduced by Gertrude Gerrish, which proposes to increase the
+average length of human life, by giving to children as a birthright,
+well developed vital, physical, and mental organizations. This, she
+claims, is the only true ground work, for real progress in the right
+direction. The scheme has proved a popular one. It has so aroused the
+zeal and enthusiasm of the club members, that they write, think and talk
+on the subject, with an inspiration and eloquence quite surprising. As a
+result of the remarkable interest awakened, they have diligently read
+books on evolution, physiology, psychology, vital statistics, physical
+culture, and a great number, on the general subject of health. In this
+respect, the work of the club as a promoter of longevity, may well serve
+as an object lesson, for the hundred-year clubs, that have been
+organized during the past ten years, for the purpose of checking the
+alarming increase of suicide clubs.
+
+"Touching the question of suicide, as an enemy to longevity: In
+discussing the subject, many members of the club maintain, that it is an
+imperative duty for them to give the world a new cure for suicide. They
+would offer its would-be victims, such a tempting array of the meanings,
+purposes and opportunities, for gaining wisdom, which may crown every
+rightly conducted, harmoniously environed life; making it so busy, so
+absorbing, and so happy; that there would be no room, for the morbid
+hallucination of a suicidal desire. This proposition is based on the
+presumption, that all suicides are possessed with an insanely erroneous
+idea, regarding the true object and purpose of human life. After the
+passing of a few generations, under the wide-spread reign of
+co-operative stirpiculture, with its hosts of mothers' clubs, suicide
+will soon become an utter impossibility.
+
+"In the ever broadening scope, of progressive kindergarten training, our
+young mothers have wrought their most important work. A work, which
+reflects on the club, a great deal of well-earned credit. As centers of
+the first and second-year nursery groups, in their cargosita excursions
+around the great hall, for the purpose of sight, color and image
+training; the service rendered by these mothers, has proved invaluable.
+As teachers, assistants, directors and leaders, in the third and
+fourth-year groups, while engaged in exercises and games, which have
+been devised and instituted, for the purpose of sense training, science
+training, and science recreation; in addition to the ordinary
+kindergarten course; their excellent work, has justly excited the pride
+of the colony.
+
+"In conclusion, my dear Fern! I must tell you something about 'The club
+babies,' as they are proudly designated by the members. They are very
+bright and beautiful! In fact, they seem born with a consciousness, that
+it is their peculiar privilege, to commence the study of life as a fine
+art, at its very threshold. They are the zealously guarded treasures of
+the club, and the pride of the farm! They give a glorious promise, that
+they will prove worthy leaders, of a coming host of dominant thinkers,
+which are to be given to the world, by the mothers' clubs of the next
+quarter of a century.
+
+"As champions and exponents of the true object and purpose of human
+life, these thinkers will be armed with a wonderful potency, with which
+to overcome and conquer, the selfish reign of the competitive system. A
+cruel system, which has proved the very incarnation, of 'Man's
+inhumanity to man,' causing countless millions to mourn! In this great
+work, they will be inspired, by the high purpose of replacing its evil,
+poverty-breeding dominancy, by an unselfish, co-operative system, a
+union of spiritualizing, educative, stirpiculture and agriculture, which
+shall insure a higher civilization, and the perpetual reign of peace and
+plenty for all mankind."
+
+"What you have told to me so charmingly, Fillmore, is almost too good to
+be true! How eloquently, and how interestingly, you have described, the
+scope and work of this wonderful club, with its gifted leader! I hail
+the advent of this club, as one of the most important results, achieved
+by the Solaris Farm Company! I am delighted, with its thorough
+organization, broad plans, high aims, earnest work, and the remarkable
+enthusiasm, of its members! They represent a cause, which is dear to my
+heart!
+
+"The question, of how to be well born, is to my mind, the foremost
+question of the day! A question, which demands universal consideration!
+This twentieth century union, of agriculture and stirpiculture, this
+scientific, systematic, generation of the race as a fine art; which has
+been so well demonstrated, by the surprising work of these enthusiastic
+young mothers, is something to be proud of! The good, which must follow
+the work of this club, cannot now be estimated. The one hope, for the
+regeneration and final salvation of society, is centered in the mothers
+of the Republic! Nothing, is so well calculated to impress the
+importance of this grand truth, on the minds of the people, as the
+practical work of an ever increasing host of mothers' clubs.
+
+"In their devotion to the Republic, these mothers are patriots of the
+purest type! They have arisen to such spiritual heights, that they may
+fearlessly proclaim the law of motherhood, for the sons and daughters of
+the new Republic! They have demonstrated that this law declares, that a
+worthy mother of the new Republic, must be absolutely free! She must be
+free, religiously, mentally, socially, physically, and financially! Thus
+unshackled, she may be properly prepared, to bear a race of children who
+are endowed by birth, with the incarnate spirit and genius of true
+liberty. Such liberty, as shall become the talisman and watchword, of
+the model Republic of the twentieth century. A Republic of peers, of
+intellectual giants! The very flower of spiritual unfoldment! The
+highest order of civilization! Under the starry flag of such a
+government, neither slave, nor pauper, nor criminal, shall be found to
+cloud with shame, the fair escutcheon of true liberty!
+
+"I shall endeavor, before leaving Solaris, to meet with the members, by
+attending some session of the club. I shall then take pleasure in
+restating these ideas, as an expression of my appreciation of the great
+work for humanity, which they have so successfully inaugurated.
+
+"To Gertrude Gerrish, that noble woman, with such a magnificent talent,
+and so loyal a heart; who has won my deepest gratitude, my undying
+respect; I must pay the tribute of my admiration, by taking her lovingly
+to my heart, as a sister woman, whose wonderful ability, as a thinker,
+organizer, and leader, has made me proud of my sex."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN THE CAPITAL AND LABOR PROBLEM.
+
+
+"I am curious to know, to what extent co-operative farming will effect
+the capital and labor problem. What think you, Fillmore?"
+
+"No doubt the effect will be very marked. Many of the solutions arrived
+at in experimenting with the insurance question, will apply with equal
+force towards a final solution of the capital and labor problem. The
+toiler once having been taught the art of self-employment, that will
+furnish him superior conditions for a perfected healthful enjoyment of
+life, with all of the advantages for himself and his children that money
+can buy for the wealthy; can never again become the working slave of
+capital. He has learned, by a practical lesson, very similar to the
+famous 'Gurnsey Market House' exploit, that labor unaided by capital,
+can produce an abundance of things which go to make up the wealth of the
+nation, the community or the individual; while capital unaided by labor
+can produce nothing.
+
+"In searching for a remote cause for this ever growing warfare between
+capital and labor, which has so long vexed our Republic; and which, even
+now, threatens its final disintegration; we soon discover our arch
+enemy, the competitive system, as the party responsible for the
+mischief. This fact becomes more apparent, as we consider, that from the
+beginning of the historical period, people in a fierce struggle for
+existence, have been compelled by the competitive system, to wage a
+brutal, relentless warfare with each other. Always the stronger,
+against the weaker. In this wicked war, millions of human lives have
+been sacrificed to the fiery moloch of selfish greed.
+
+"The older the civilization the more fiercely has the war been waged;
+until to-day, thousands among the lower classes everywhere, dwarfed and
+embittered by a hopeless struggle to sustain life, in a ceaseless combat
+with competing foes on every hand; spurred to a frenzy of fury, curse
+the day which gave them birth. Why should they live only to suffer? With
+moral natures starved and withered, they declare that all justice is a
+mockery, all honesty, a myth! They have lost faith in God, and
+confidence in man! They care not for the needs of posterity, or for the
+nemesis of a future existence! In this desperate condition, they either
+commit suicide, or become an easy prey to the temptation, to join the
+outlaws in taking the world by the throat. From such material is formed
+the dregs of society, that lower social strata of living dynamite, that
+constant menace, which threatens in the near future, to destroy all
+civilization which rests upon it. This is a typical piece of the
+handiwork of the competitive system, a system in which the roots of
+society to-day are grounded.
+
+"Once seriously considered in this light, how can any sane person, who
+believes in an All-Wise Creator, in justice and mercy, in a common
+brotherhood for humanity, ever again defend the wickedness, of a society
+based on the selfish cruelty of such a system? What treatment may
+unorganized, unprotected labor, expect from this system?
+
+"Hitherto, fortunately for the progress of the world, the laborers of
+this Republic, have enjoyed more of the advantages of life, than those
+of any other country. With better wages and shorter hours for work, they
+have been able to educate themselves and their children, to a degree
+that would fit them to become good citizens of the Republic. A republic
+which for its continued existence, depends on the integrity, ability and
+intelligence of its working units. As such, our laborers have proved
+themselves the best in the world. Now, alas! The whole industrial
+situation is changed by the swift dominancy of the competitive system,
+with its ever increasing brood of trusts, which have swallowed up all
+natural opportunities, and monopolized all the leading business
+enterprises, of this hitherto progressive nation.
+
+"The people of the Republic are divided into two classes; the employers,
+and the employed. The invention and introduction of new and expensive
+machinery each year, augments the power of the trusts, to control the
+markets and the industrial situation. By the same means and at the same
+time, they are fast reducing the number of employers, and increasing the
+number of those who must seek employment. Under such circumstances, each
+year the fate of the worker in any class, either skilled or unskilled,
+grows more desperate. He becomes more completely the slave of the trusts
+or capitalists who own the tools and who monopolize the industries. The
+larger the dependent family of the worker, the more abject the slavery,
+and the less his power to resist a constant reduction of wages.
+
+"In the efforts made by organized labor unions, to resist this tendency
+to reduce wages, we have both the cause and the beginning of the war
+between capital and labor. With a courage and patriotism worthy of the
+days of 'Seventy-Six,' this war has been waged by the toilers, with a
+determination to maintain rights guaranteed to them by the constitution
+of the Republic. A right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
+A right to labor and to enjoy the fruits of their labor, by having free
+access to a reasonable share of the natural advantages belonging to the
+public domain.
+
+"In this heroic struggle, so sturdily maintained during the past
+twenty-five years against the competitive system and its well trained
+hosts; the campaign, which has been marked by many mistakes, followed by
+frequent defeat and disastrous failure, has always proved successful as
+an educator, both for the toilers and the great middle classes, who
+sympathized with them. On the other hand, alarmed by sudden success,
+achieved by the disruption of long-lived business methods, and the loss
+of confidence in exchange values, on the part of the public in
+consequence of this disruption; the generals of the competitive system,
+aided with but few exceptions, by the press, university and pulpit, have
+shrewdly endeavored to evade responsibility, for the disastrous panics
+which have followed such revolutionary methods. These panics have left
+the country disturbed and embarrassed, by armies of unemployed men.
+
+"In the same line of tactics, these competitive leaders, have endeavored
+to confuse the question, and to mystify the people, by raising the cry
+of over-production! The inexorable law of supply and demand! The
+impossibility of our manufacturers longer competing in the markets of
+the world, against the cheap products of the pauper labor of Europe,
+while they are obliged by the unions, to pay such exorbitant wages here.
+This cry has grown more insistent, with each succeeding year.
+Nevertheless, the fact still remains, that but for the continuous
+opposition of the united labor organizations, long before this time, the
+wages paid in Europe, would govern the price of labor in this Republic.
+What then would have happened to our workers, the basic units of our
+government? Fortunately, the campaign of education still continues! The
+people at large are just beginning to wake up to the importance of the
+labor question! They have studied it carefully and earnestly. They have
+learned that in productive labor, muscular effort is a mental
+demonstration.
+
+"They have learned, that the products of the skillfully educated,
+intelligent, refined, moral, self-respecting worker of this Republic,
+can successfully, compete with the inferior products, of a less
+intelligent or pauperized labor of any country, in any of the markets of
+the world. No matter how high the wages of the former, or how low the
+wages of the latter may be.
+
+"They have learned, that the demand, in any market for a superior
+article, will always drive out the inferior.
+
+"They have learned, that the question of the unemployed, is a question
+of the utmost importance, which demands the immediate attention of all
+patriots. They have learned, that the unemployed we shall have with us
+in ever increasing numbers, so long as the competitive system shall
+last.
+
+"They have learned, that not one from the ranks of the unemployed, can
+again become a worker, without paying a handsome bonus for the
+privilege, by allowing some one to pocket the lion's share of the
+profits he may be able to earn.
+
+"They have learned, that when society encourages conditions, which
+cause the laborer to look upon any calamity as a blessing in disguise,
+because it offers work for the unemployed; that society, must be
+reorganized.
+
+"They have learned, that whenever an industrial system produces
+conditions, which make the laborer see only disaster for his individual
+interests, in every labor-saving invention which may be introduced; such
+a system, must be superseded by a better one.
+
+"They have learned, that the competitive system, by the very nature and
+terms of its organization, obliges its followers to be selfish, cruel,
+heartless, unmanly and unpatriotic. They have learned, that its reign
+has become so dominant, that it justifies a recent writer of most
+excellent wit, who declares that 'Man by birth, education and training,
+has become so essentially selfish, that no preaching has any effect upon
+him, if it does not advise him to lay up treasures for himself
+somewhere.'
+
+"They have learned, that the dangers which most seriously threaten the
+perpetuity of our Republic, do not come from the clamor of dissatisfied
+laborers, who are wrongfully accused of law-breaking; but, that these
+dangers do come, from the lawlessness of capital, and the anarchy of
+corporations.
+
+"They have learned that so far as the interests of the working units of
+the Republic are concerned, or care for its continued existence as a
+representative government; the press, the university, and the pulpit,
+have all been syndicated and censored by the competitive system to such
+an extent, that they can no longer be trusted to furnish teachers,
+leaders, and guides.
+
+"They have learned, that the only safe course is, for the people to
+depend upon themselves, to develop and establish a new social and
+industrial order, from which shall spring a class of incorruptible
+leaders and statesmen, whose pure, unselfish motives, dominant, evenly
+developed minds, and superior ability, shall mark them as fitting rulers
+for a more perfect Republic. Such a Republic as shall meet the demands
+of a twentieth century progress.
+
+"They have learned, that the remedy indicated is a change to an
+industrial system, that will secure to the laborer an equitable share of
+the benefits, which follow the introduction of labor-saving machinery.
+Under such conditions, the laborer himself, having more leisure and
+unexpended vitality, will be stimulated to increase his available
+resources by cultivating his brain capacity for invention, thereby
+largely increasing his power to produce.
+
+"After many years, the rank and file of the workers in the labor unions,
+have learned, that self-employment is the key to the situation. Although
+late, they have learned, that if all the money wasted in unsuccessful
+strikes, had been invested in the purchase of choice locations,
+undeveloped mines and mineral lands, and in the erection of
+manufacturing plants, the labor question would now be a thing of the
+past. They would be masters of the situation, to whom the capitalists
+would be glad to offer such a liberal system of profit-sharing, as would
+practically make the workmen self-employed, by reason of a part
+ownership in the enterprise they labored to exploit.
+
+"Finally, and most important of all; they have learned that all
+manufacturing industries, naturally grow out of agriculture. That the
+success of one, is the measure, for the success of the other. That they
+must co-operate to such an extent, that a constant, healthy growth of
+both, may be maintained.
+
+"They have become convinced of the imperative necessity for this
+equable, co-operative, progress, by a careful study of the threatening
+conditions which obtain, in countries where agriculture has declined;
+and where manufacturing industries have become abnormally predominant.
+In such countries, the food supply at once becomes a question of daily,
+nay of hourly importance. It must be imported from distant lands,
+subject to the tax of insurance, import and export duties, freight
+charges, and commissions. Under such adverse conditions, available
+supplies for but a few days only, stand between the toiler and gaunt
+hunger. Any catastrophe which may happen to already congested lines of
+transportation, will precipitate a famine. Then prices would go up with
+a bound. The constant menace of such a possibility, always serves to
+keep food-prices above the natural level of a fair profit. On the other
+hand, in countries where progress in agriculture and manufacture goes
+hand in hand; a constantly increasing home market for manufactured
+products is steadily maintained. A most important consideration! At the
+same time, the industrial centers have the advantage of the immediate
+vicinity of abundant food supplies, which are not subject to the
+vicissitudes of traffic or transportation, or to the tax of much
+handling.
+
+"In considering these things, the minds of a great majority of the
+laboring people, have been prepared to accept the conclusion, that the
+great question of the hour is, how to open the way for every worthy
+worker to become his own employer. The co-operative farm opens the way.
+Therefore, it is to these self-educated toilers in the ranks of the
+labor organizations, that the manifest advantages of co-operative
+farming will appeal most successfully. If properly approached, a
+majority of them would be, not only willing but anxious for an
+opportunity to give this new system of co-operative agriculture a
+thorough trial.
+
+"Having once become practically interested, these people would soon
+learn to consider the object and purpose of life from a new standpoint.
+From this new concept of the meaning and necessities of life, they would
+perceive that it did not require the hoarding of much wealth, in order
+to satisfy them. The insurance system in providing for the wants of old
+age, would forever banish the haunting specter of a pauper's death in
+the poor-house. They would then realize that money, was not so precious
+as a human life! They would clearly understand that money was an
+absolute necessity, only to those under the competitive system who had
+lost confidence in each other, and faith in the fact of a common
+brotherhood for humanity!
+
+"They would soon respond to happier surroundings, in every way so
+conducive to a natural, soul growth, and to the harmonious unfoldment of
+the individual from within. In this unfoldment, a new meaning for
+immortality would come to them. Spiritual law would become operative. It
+would teach them that, as immortal beings, as cosmic units of the larger
+cosmos--The Great Over Soul--they could not become totally depraved,
+even under pressure of evil conditions of the most degrading character;
+no matter how much their spiritual natures had been stained or starved.
+
+"With this new standard as a guide, there would come an inspiration to
+strive for the attainment of a higher, purer, better life. A life more
+in harmony with the design of an All-Wise Creator! Angry, antagonistic
+feelings, against hitherto competitors, would disappear. The world would
+wear a smile instead of a frown! Brotherly love between man and man,
+would become the rule in place of the exception! Gold would lose its
+charm! Avarice would pass away! Selfish instincts, born of bitter years
+under a cruel system would soon follow! Long dormant, spiritual natures
+would be awakened! A new spiritual growth would take place! A vastly
+wider, mental, and spiritual horizon, would be added to the wisdom of
+the individual! In the light of this wisdom would come the discovery,
+that the virtue of right living, bears the seeds of a perpetuity, which
+begets true and lasting happiness! An overwhelming answer in the
+affirmative, from every point of view, to the question, does it pay to
+be unselfish?
+
+"With higher ideals of life and its duties, these physically, mentally,
+and spiritually emancipated toilers, would find themselves prepared to
+co-operate most effectually, in establishing and maintaining any social
+and industrial evolution, which the best interests of the people and the
+Republic might demand.
+
+"From this presentation, my dear Fern! you may imagine how important and
+desirable it is, that these two powerful industrial forces should become
+harmoniously united in working for the interests of a natural
+progressive evolution. Against such an invincible combination, the hosts
+of the competitive system might not hope to prevail! Once thus united,
+each co-operative farm would then become the nucleus of a new industrial
+organization, capable of such unlimited expansion and perfection as the
+needs of surrounding communities might be able to sustain.
+
+"As this twin series of giant industries continued to grow and expand,
+the ways by which they might co-operate with mutual benefit, would
+continue to multiply. In political matters such a combination would
+prove remarkably strong; first in the township and county; later, in
+state and national legislatures, where it would soon be able to demand
+and push forward favorable legislation, and also to strangle much that
+might threaten to prove adverse. In such efforts, would come
+opportunities for introducing to the arena of public life, an abler,
+nobler, purer class of young men; who, born of a better social,
+industrial system, by reason of superior conditions for birth and
+training, would be properly endowed with that inspiring patriotism,
+sterling integrity, and commanding ability, so necessary to maintain the
+dominancy and perpetuity of the Republic, as a government of the people,
+for the people and by the people."
+
+"Bravo! Well done Fillmore! Your statement of the subject is grand,
+indeed! The eloquent summing up, forms a fitting climax in answer to my
+last question, the closing one of the series. But, as much as I admire
+and appreciate its general excellence, you must allow me to suggest one
+criticism. Do you not think Fillmore, that you put the case rather too
+strongly, when you place the press, the university and the pulpit, so
+completely under the control of trusts, or the leaders of the
+competitive system? Would they dare to do such a thing?"
+
+"Bless you my dear girl! They are capable of doing anything! So far as
+the trusts and the competitive system are concerned, I have stated the
+case very mildly. Not one-half of the story has been told. Let us probe
+this question a little deeper.
+
+"What is a trust? It is the highest form of monopoly. It is a nest of
+corporations, laid and hatched by the competitive system! It has neither
+conscience to hold it in check, nor soul to be damned! It dares to do
+anything! Indeed! It is formed for the sole purpose of making money.
+Nothing is allowed to stand in the way. Born of the consolidating
+pressure, which marks the competitive system, it seeks to monopolize all
+of the advantages of that cruel system, without incurring its penalties.
+Once thoroughly organized, and armed with the almost unlimited power of
+its enormous capital; the trust immediately commences the wholesale
+destruction of all opposing industries or interests. In pushing this
+work, it regards neither the equities of commercial law, nor the vested
+rights of others. Securely protected by its monopoly, this modern
+juggernaut in the commercial world, rolls remorselessly onward toward
+its goal of wealth. It cares not for the safety of worshippers, friends
+or foes. If by chance they represent competing interests, they must
+either leave the field or be crushed. There is no alternative! There is
+no escape!
+
+"A few of the leading trusts, those most completely representing the
+competitive system, have recently become so defiant, so audaciously
+bold, that they are prepared to undertake, to consolidate the business
+of the whole earth. They will stick at nothing! They have the gorge to
+swallow one government or ten! It matters little to them! Like the ring
+of conspirators, in Donnelley's 'Ceaser's Column,' a few of the leading
+spirits, of these daring trusts, are secretly plotting in Gotham! Just
+at present, they have their eyes fixed on the all-powerful money
+question. The vision seems a pleasing one!
+
+"What is that question, which so completely absorbs the attention of
+these people? Can it be possible, that the mills of the competitive
+system will grind up rich bankers, as unconcernedly as they do the
+helpless poor! They surely will! The plot grows and thickens! Let us
+give it close attention. Let us watch these people. Keeping in mind
+meanwhile, that hitherto, the bankers of the country, have complacently
+considered themselves masters and kings of the financial situation,
+whose thrones were secure for all time. Strongly intrenched behind
+well-filled money bags, they have felt themselves safe in helping the
+trusts to fleece the public. Now they are becoming alarmed. They are
+shaking in their fifteen-dollar boots! They behold that dreadful
+handwriting on the wall! In giant letters, seemingly towering forty feet
+tall, these bankers read the doom, which the trust conspirators are now
+preparing for them. They catch the frightful significance of the
+question, which the trust leaders are discussing. It is this. Why should
+the business of the United States, support such an army of banks? More
+than ten thousand. We know very well, that the entire money transactions
+of this country, could be handled more safely, more swiftly, and more
+cheaply, by one grand central institution. With one voice the
+conspirators exclaim! Let us form a pool! Let us consolidate the whole
+business, into one magnificent money trust! Let us select, say
+twenty-five, of the brainiest bankers in the business! Let us give them
+fat salaries, and make them superintendents of the financial agencies,
+now called banks. Counting the whole number of banks, both public and
+private, as ten thousand, with three professional bankers to each one,
+the result would be a total of thirty thousand bankers. Of this number,
+we could reduce twenty-nine thousand, nine hundred and seventy-five, to
+the station of bank clerks. Let us pause for a moment to contemplate the
+result! What enormous savings would accrue, by the introduction of such
+a wholesale scheme of consolidation! These savings would be ours!
+Intoxicated with the brilliancy and the hugeness of the idea; the
+conspirators with one impulse, spring to their feet, with outstretched
+hands they form a ring, they execute a round dance extraordinary. While
+thus engaged, they gaily shout, 'There is millions in it for us!'
+
+"No wonder the bankers are alarmed! With the exercise of one-half of
+their usual cunning and foresight, they should have scented the danger
+sooner. No doubt, they were so engrossed by the fascinating game of
+money grabbing, that they were wholly blind to danger, as the result of
+the combined audacity and perfidy of their former partners. They have
+evidently failed to learn one plain lesson, which is taught by the logic
+of events. It is this. When once fairly started, the process of the
+larger corporation, swallowing the lesser, goes forward with such an
+ever-increasing rate of speed, that it soon overtakes and gobbles up
+banks and bankers.
+
+"At this point, it is pertinent to propound the following questions: If
+this is a Republic? If the people are the government, and the government
+is the people? And if the consolidating business, is so good and so
+profitable for the trusts? Why, should not the government, own and run
+this giant central bank? Why, should it not own and operate the
+railroads, the canals, the shipping, the mines, the forests, and all
+other industries? This would give the people a chance to share equally,
+in the enjoyment of these enormous profits. Why not?
+
+"What say you my dear Fern! Would it not be infinitely better, than to
+allow the government to be swallowed by one monster trust?"
+
+"Better Fillmore! Far better! I am convinced! I withdraw my criticism.
+You have maintained your point so vigorously, that I have not the
+courage, to offer one single word in reply. I am ready and willing, to
+consider the discussion as finally closed."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM TRIUMPHANT.
+
+
+The beginning of the second decade of the twentieth century, saw the
+final triumph of the co-operative farm at Solaris. The five years of
+trial and probation, have swiftly passed into history. The labors of the
+colony, have been crowned with a rich harvest of success. A great work
+for humanity, has been accomplished. A grand lesson in the economics of
+unselfish co-operation, has been demonstrated. A kaleidoscope of new
+charms, of fresh beauty, of an infinite variety of change, of unexpected
+opportunities, of a host of new expressions, in the possibilities of
+social and industrial life; the culmination of untried methods, new
+hopes and new aspirations; have marked this victorious climax. All have
+contributed, to the happiness of the contented villagers at Solaris;
+filling their hearts with brighter hopes for the future.
+
+A new era in agriculture has dawned. With it has come, a new order of
+life for farm people. The links of social life, have become more firmly
+knit. New chains of enthusiastic interest, in the humanitarian work
+represented by the farm, have been forged by the binding associations of
+passing years. Ethical, industrial and spiritual life, has been
+unfolded, in harmony with the law of progressive planetary evolution.
+
+As an illustration of the perfected possibilities of rural life, this
+suggestive and pleasing picture is well nigh complete. Verily! Virtue
+has been richly rewarded, by the pure pleasure of right living! To the
+truths of these things, the lives of the unselfish co-operators at
+Solaris, bear most abundant and convincing testimony. Happiness and
+contentment, reign supreme! Social solutions, offer new fields of
+pleasure to a generous, progressive people, who are daily becoming
+better educated, more dominant as thinkers, more unselfish in all
+things, therefore, more virtuous.
+
+In passing from the experimental, to a more perfect stage of
+co-operative life, a marvelous change for the better is noted. New
+factories have been built, new industries instituted, and organized. The
+busy hum of industrial prosperity, everywhere claims attention.
+Meanwhile, the demands for a better esthetic culture, have not been
+neglected. The interiors of both factory and workshop, have been made
+additionally attractive, by a more artistic, educative class of
+decorations. All industrial buildings, are surrounded by well-kept
+lawns.
+
+Many handsome cottages, showing a great variety of beautiful designs,
+cosey, vine-clad and picturesque, environed by gardens and lawns, have
+been added to the architectural display of the village. Order, symmetry
+and cleanliness, have become the established law of the farm.
+
+Barns, stables, stock yards, pig pens and poultry yards, have been
+placed at a safe distance from the village. In the erection of these
+necessary buildings, care has been taken, to provide for the removal and
+sanitary dry storage, of the daily accumulation of valuable manures.
+Especially designed machinery, accomplishes this otherwise unpleasant
+task, quickly and easily. By this convenient arrangement, with a very
+little labor, these buildings, and the stock housed in them, can at all
+times, be kept healthy and clean. A most important consideration!
+
+Everywhere, appear evidences, of the farms increasing wealth in live
+stock. Great herds of fine cattle, are fattening in the fields, pastures
+and barns. Prize collections of choice sheep, are roaming over grassy
+slopes. Fine droves of well grown, healthy swine, in assorted lots, are
+contentedly feeding in small fields of fresh clover. The large drove of
+beautiful, highly bred horses, is a very valuable one. The poultry
+yards, are filled with many varieties of fine fowls. All show the
+effects of careful attention, from the hands of care takers, who are
+both kind and skillful.
+
+On the opposite side of the village, near the nursery, the numerous fish
+ponds are located. Flower bordered, island studded, and tree margined,
+with surfaces dotted here and there, by tiny fleets of graceful,
+shell-like pleasure boats. They add much to the rare beauty of this
+pastoral picture. Beneath the rippling surface of the clear water, in
+these miniature lakes, flash the shining scales of a swarming host, of
+the most delicious of food fishes.
+
+Fragrant, purple and gold, the heavily laden vineyards, are growing and
+glowing in the bright sunlight. They give promise of an early generous
+fruitage. Thrifty orchards of healthy well-grown fruit trees, including
+many varieties, are fast coming to maturity. Waving fields of golden
+grain, ripple in the simmering heat of a noon-day sun, or rustle and
+billow with each passing breeze, under the pale light of a harvest moon.
+Beautiful fields of cotton and corn, are an inspiration to behold. Fine
+fields of vegetables, nurseries, gardens and shrubberies, with a wealth
+of lovely flower plots, all add to the charm of the general effect.
+
+The extension of the co-operative system, to embrace the second farm,
+has been well started. Fenwick Farm, is the name chosen for this farm
+number two, of the series. Two years of intelligent, well-directed work,
+by its wide awake, industrious people, have shown surprising results!
+They are constantly inspired to do better work by the hope of being able
+to reach a degree of success, equal to that achieved by Solaris. In this
+respect, the spirit of healthy rivalry, which has arisen, gives them an
+advantage, which the parent colony did not have. The success already
+attained by Fenwick Farm, has attracted widespread attention, in the
+surrounding communities. The effect for the good of the county, and of
+its people, socially, politically and financially, has been quite
+remarkable. The tax payers of the county, are delighted! They have been
+completely won over, to the side of co-operative farming, by the force
+of this second example.
+
+One of the greatest gains, which has arisen from co-operative effort
+for mutual benefit, between the two colonies, has been practically
+illustrated, in the great work of road building. These two co-operative
+farm villages, are now connected by a broad, smooth, well graded road.
+This road, ten miles in length, is margined by a wide strip of
+beautifully kept parking. Five miles of this parking, on either side of
+this magnificent boulevard, become the especial care, of each village.
+No city in the union, could display better taste, or greater pride, in
+keeping these beautiful parks, in the most perfect condition.
+
+In order to keep the park lawns, foliage and flowers, always looking
+clean and bright, it becomes necessary to keep this road free from dust.
+For this purpose, the entire road surface, is given a frequent
+sprinkling with petroleum. After each sprinkling, the enormous pressure
+of an hundred-ton roller, soon converts the layer of moistened dust,
+into a hard, smooth mass of oily rock. This process is repeated until a
+thick, heavy, durable surface of water-proof rock, is secured. This
+makes an ideal road! The hard, well pounded, gravelly soil, below, gives
+a permanent foundation, because it is so well protected against
+moisture, by this broad, indestructible roof of oily rock. The wide,
+slightly rounded surface of the road, sheds water like a duck's back.
+Consequently, it is always free from mud and dust. The broad rubber
+tires of a great variety of freight motors, pleasure mobiles and motor
+cycles, do not wear its perfect surface. The very acme of pleasure is
+reached, in riding over such a delightful road!
+
+After work hours have passed, the pleasure seekers from both villages,
+in merry congenial parties are awheel, enjoying to the utmost, the
+pure, sweet, flower-perfumed air, together with the soothing, restful
+beauty of a park lined drive, of such extent and variety, as a
+multi-millionaire, might not be able to command. Could anything more
+delightful be imagined! Is it any wonder, that people from adjoining
+counties, thirty miles away, come in droves, to enjoy a ride over this
+now famous road! In the hearts of all comers, is stirred the imitative
+spirit of rivalry. They return to their homes, determined to co-operate
+with their neighbors, at least to an extent that will enable them to
+build such roads for themselves. They are convinced, that the excellence
+of its roads, in any community, is the only sure test, which will
+indicate the exact degree of civilization, attained by its people.
+
+At the village of Solaris, the universal use of Solaris brick, of the
+various patterns and sizes, has proved an important factor in the
+construction of sidewalks, store houses, industrial buildings, cottages,
+the hotel, the schools and the theatre. The visitor is at once impressed
+by the wholesome, attractive, substantial appearance, given to the town
+by the use of this excellent and durable brick. In this respect, the
+square mosaic bricks, of unique design, used in laying the broad
+sidewalks, twenty feet in width, which border Railroad Avenue, the
+street leading straight from the public square, to the railroad station,
+create an effect so marked that it never fails to attract attention and
+admiration. The symmetrical trees and well-kept parking which line this
+avenue, serve to enhance the pleasing effect.
+
+The artistic skill acquired by the people of Solaris, in the making and
+laying of this new style of brick, adds another important advantage, to
+the long list offered by co-operative methods. In color, thickness,
+sanitary shapes, variety of designs, fire-proof qualities, polished
+smoothness and durability, these bricks recommend themselves to the
+favor of the general public, wherever they go. Without any effort in the
+line of advertising, the general demand for them has continued to
+increase, until brick-making has become the leading lucrative industry
+on the farm.
+
+Among the new buildings at Solaris, most worthy of mention, are the
+theatre, and the two large school buildings, on either side of it. These
+structures, are by far the finest ones in the village. The affectionate
+pride they excite in the hearts of the villagers, is well deserved.
+Centrally located, on the east side of the public square, this
+triumvirate of noble buildings, claims the admiration of the beholder,
+from any point of view on the open square. The front walls are
+beautifully ornamented, in harmony with an architectural design, which
+is considered by critics, as exceedingly artistic. Inside, they have
+been constructed, finished, fitted and furnished, in accordance with a
+design, that will afford to the villagers, the highest order of
+education and amusement.
+
+The theatre is two hundred feet long, and seventy-five feet wide. The
+schools, are each one hundred and seventy-five feet in length, by forty
+feet in width. They are separated from the theatre, by twenty feet of
+space. A roomy covered way from the rear, connects them with that
+building. In construction, care has been taken, to secure perfect light
+and ventilation.
+
+The school on the left, is for pupils who enter the primary, and the
+first, second and third, intermediate classes. The one on the right, is
+for students, who may be promoted to the first, second and third, high
+schools. The seating capacity of each one, is ample for three hundred
+children. The decorations of the walls and ceilings are, to a remarkable
+degree, both educative and ornamental. The equipment of school
+furniture, such as seats, desks, dictionaries, text books, globes and
+outline maps; drawing-boards, blackboards and laboratory outfit; glass
+cases, for collections of geological specimens and minerals; life size,
+physiology models and charts; together, with a complete series of charts
+for the other sciences; is the best that could be designed or procured.
+
+The theatre, is a very important part of the educative system.
+Fortunately, the acoustic properties, are remarkably fine! The entire
+interior, including the high ceiling, is decorated with such boldly
+beautiful designs, that they never fail to gratify the artistic sense of
+the beholder. At night, the charming effect of these embellishments, is
+intensified, by the use of a great number of brilliantly colored
+electric lights; which are skillfully grouped and interwoven, as a part
+of the general decorative plan. The wide seats, are designed for ease
+and comfort. They are richly and durably upholstered, with dark-brown,
+polished leather. The seating capacity of this cosey little theatre, is
+twenty-five hundred.
+
+The colonists have found this histrionic temple, very useful. It is an
+ideal place for farm and village festivals; and for all kinds of
+entertainments; such as orations, school exhibitions, graduation
+exercises, vocal and instrumental concerts and dramas; lectures, operas
+and every class of theatricals. It is also, equally useful and fitting,
+for stereopticon and biograph exhibits, of the astronomy, geology,
+botany, natural history, microscopical, and photographic clubs.
+
+The large, well equipped stage and dressing rooms, offer a permanent,
+desirable home, for the musical, choral and dramatic clubs. At intervals
+of three months, four weeks in each year; excellent professional troups
+occupy the stage; presenting a fine variety, of wholesome dramas and
+operas. In this way, the stage of this farm theatre, is made to
+represent and reflect, the passing progress of the dramatic and operatic
+world. During the intervals between these star-company weeks, the
+home-talent club, presents regular, tri-weekly performances, under the
+supervision of a skillful director. The remaining nights are as a rule,
+pretty well utilized by the numerous local entertainments, before
+mentioned.
+
+This brief sketch of the generous provision, made for the education and
+amusement of the people of Solaris, will, in connection with the nursery
+and kindergarten, hereafter to be described, show what the co-operative
+farm can do, when it undertakes to give to its people a class of
+educational training and amusement, which in many respects, is superior
+to the best that money can buy for the wealthy. It will also
+demonstrate, what can be accomplished, when the farm determines to
+produce, and to fittingly educate and train, a superior class of
+children, as the most important part of the legitimate work of a
+co-operative farm. The highest expression of agriculture! The culture of
+children as a fine art! The production of such children, as will make
+ideal citizens for a perfect Republic!
+
+The practical class in farm chemistry, only twelve in number, is an
+organization made up by a careful selection from the brightest minds and
+best thinkers in the colony. Under the leadership of Fillmore Flagg, it
+has accomplished some excellent experimental work. It has been able to
+add several valuable allied industries to the resources of the farm, in
+addition to those already described.
+
+In breaking ground for opening the new mica and zinc mines, a great
+quantity of peculiar clay was discovered. This clay was of a very fine
+quality, entirely free from sand, gravel or other impurities. Yet,
+strangely enough, it would not make good china, porcelain, or pottery!
+There was a greasy smoothness of feeling possessed by this clay, which
+suggested its name, tallow clay. After considerable exposure to the air,
+it would crack and slack until finally dissolved into a fine powder. The
+class was puzzled. The members were on their mettle! The more they
+worked with this curious clay and failed, the more they became
+interested and determined to persevere, until some discovery should
+reward them. The greasy quality of the clay, suggested soap-stone. Now,
+the class members had long wished for some material out of which they
+could manufacture a first-class quality of artificial soap-stone. This
+tallow clay promised good results, if they could only eliminate the few
+constituents, which were not present in the real soap-stone. The weeks
+of careful research spent in this eliminating process, finally crowned
+the efforts of the class with a complete success. The result, was an
+artificial soap-stone of excellent quality. Even, when molded in thin
+plates, it would withstand exposure to intense heat for long periods of
+time, without warping or shrinking. It soon became evident, that it
+could be made more useful and more valuable, than real soap-stone.
+
+After some weeks of experimental work, in various processes of
+manufacture, the right method was reached. Fillmore Flagg was convinced,
+that thousands of tons of this product, yielding a large profit, could
+be placed on the market much cheaper than the best quality of fire
+brick. For a great number of uses in the industrial arts, and for
+chemical furnaces, ore-roasting ovens, furnace linings, stove linings
+and even stoves, it would prove immeasurably superior. The popular
+demand for this new soap-stone, soon sustained the judgment of Fillmore
+Flagg. This demand continued to increase until the new industry, became
+one of the most profitable on the farm.
+
+After the first success, the class in farm chemistry, in search of
+another prize, returned with renewed vigor, to attack the tallow clay.
+In working over the formidable heap of tailings, which had accumulated
+from the soap-stone experiments, the second prize was quickly found. It
+proved even more important than the first! This mass of rejected clay
+was found to be exceedingly rich in aluminum. Better still! It was just
+in the proper condition, to be most cheaply and easily extracted! It was
+a great find! The class members were crowned with laurels! Of course,
+they were jubilant. But they were not puffed up with pride! That, was
+not their style!
+
+During the fifth year of the reign of the co-operative farm at Solaris,
+the following mining industries, were added to its resources. Valuable
+mines of mica, lead and zinc, were opened and successfully worked.
+Electric car lines, connected these mines with the freight depot at
+Solaris Station. There, the lead and zinc, high grade ores, found a
+ready market at good prices. The mica was prepared for use at Solaris.
+It was then sold at a fine profit, in connection with orders for
+soap-stone.
+
+For two years, the canning factory, had furnished another avenue for
+profitably marketing large crops of sweet-corn, green peas, asparagus,
+tomatoes, peaches, and many kinds of perishable fruits and berries.
+
+The demand for Solaris Vegetable Concentrates, and for Solaris Mixture
+Concentrates, has more than doubled. The same is true of the Solaris
+breakfast foods, and of the material for delicious breakfast dishes,
+prepared from mixtures of parched, sweet, and pop-corn.
+
+The vineyards and the quince, peach, plum and cherry orchards, have
+reached the stage of full bearing. Improved methods, careful culture and
+the constant use of better chemical agents, for the destruction of
+insect enemies, have made the heavy crops of fruits from these vineyards
+and orchards, even more desirable and more salable than ever before. The
+farm income from grapes and quinces alone amounting to over one hundred
+thousand dollars per annum.
+
+The quantity of jellies, jams, preserves and marmalades, made from small
+fruits, has more than doubled. The excellence of quality, and
+established reputation for absolute purity, has rapidly increased the
+demand for them at fancy prices.
+
+Altogether, the rapid and continuous growth of the farm income, from its
+allied agricultural and manufacturing industries, has largely increased
+the wages of the co-operators. The purchases at the store have been
+correspondingly augmented. The sale of goods by the store, to
+surrounding communities, has been greatly extended. The result has been
+a constantly increasing volume of the seven and one-half per cent
+profits, steadily pouring into the insurance fund. Both the general
+service fund and the fund for purposes of education and amusement, have
+been equally benefited. Fifty thousand dollars, have been added to the
+stock of goods, in the store. The store building, has been enlarged and
+improved. A large hotel for the accommodation of the constantly
+increasing number of visitors, has been erected and equipped. At all
+times, plenty of money has been at hand, with which to push forward all
+necessary farm or village improvements. The fame of such general
+prosperity, has gone abroad, in the land; placing the financial standing
+of the Solaris Farm Company, on a firm basis with the commercial world.
+
+Five years of co-operative work, have convinced the people of Solaris,
+that successful agriculture, demands the determined effort, the best
+thought, the scientific work and the combined energy of a well organized
+force of earnest, unselfish, steadfast workers. They are very
+enthusiastic over the wonderful results achieved. Freed from the
+shackles and sins of a selfish life, they bear the unmistakable stamp of
+progress, socially, industrially, intellectually and ethically. Having
+cast aside the burden of care and worry about the future, both for
+themselves and their children, they have had a chance to grow and expand
+in the real sunshine of life. They have become dignified, self-poised,
+well dressed, educated, refined, cultured and polished men and women.
+Good citizens, of which, any commonwealth might well be proud! Vitally,
+and vastly more important! They have become dominant thinkers, who are
+capable of wisely and unselfishly, thinking and planning for the benefit
+of the Republic!
+
+In the remarkable success achieved by Solaris Farm, our hero, Fillmore
+Flagg, has realized his highest ambition, his brightest hopes. Relieved
+from further responsibility, as general manager, by the last annual
+election of the Solaris Farm Company, he has had an opportunity to turn
+his attention to organizing companies, for the eight remaining farm
+sites. In this work, he has had valuable assistance from the officers
+and members of the company. With a view of making Solaris the present
+headquarters of the general movement; acting on advice of Fillmore
+Flagg, the Solaris Farm Company, has amended its charter, to increase
+the membership of the company to one thousand; doubling the capital
+stock. Five thousand acres of adjoining lands have been secured, the
+farmers from whom they were purchased, coming into the company as
+stock-holders. This course seemed necessary and wise, in order to
+properly balance the growing industrial and commercial importance of
+Solaris. With such a large increase in the number of co-operators, a
+surplus of capable young men and women, would be available, from which
+to select volunteers, as the nucleus of a corps of experienced officers
+for the newly organized farm companies. In this way, Solaris, as the
+parent farm, would become very important as the training school, for
+teachers that were to supply the wants of such new farms as might grow
+out of the general movement.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+THE KINDERGARTEN AT SOLARIS.
+
+
+Among the important buildings at Solaris, we must consider the large,
+well appointed nursery, kindergarten and mothers' club combined. The
+mothers' club occupying a handsome wing to the main building. Located
+just in the rear of the long row of palace homes, and connected with
+them by a long, wide, many-windowed hall, it has proved admirably
+adapted to the purpose for which it was built. This beautiful structure,
+is environed by a lovely lawn, charmingly variegated with flowers and
+shrubbery. It is surrounded on three sides, by a wide, low veranda, only
+one step above the lawn. This veranda, except where a broad step
+connects it with the lawn, is shut in by a tall balustrade. By this
+means unguarded children are prevented from falling. A broad,
+overhanging roof, of picturesque design, covers the entire building.
+From the interior, many windows coming down to the floor, open on to the
+veranda.
+
+The entire floor space, the full size of the main building, sixty by two
+hundred feet, is unobstructed by a partition. That portion devoted to
+the nursery, is only separated from the kindergarten by a low
+balustrade. A large skylight, in the central roof, floods this
+extraordinary room with an abundance of light. Screens of thin, white,
+silky cloth are so arranged, that this light may be regulated and
+softened to any desired extent. The lofty ceiling is arched, groined and
+decorated, very like a cathedral. The high walls are modestly tinted a
+pale green. A broad, beautifully designed, exquisitely colored border,
+in perfect harmony with the splendor of the ceiling, runs uniformly
+around the upper walls of this delightful room, adding immensely to the
+general artistic effect.
+
+One peculiarity in connection with the floor, marks a wide departure
+from the ordinary arrangements of a nursery or kindergarten school. Six
+feet distant from the washboard, a depressed railway track, equipped
+with long platform cars, ten feet in width, having their surfaces just
+level with the main floor, describes a circuit of the room. Except at
+the places of entrance or exit, this circular train or section of floor
+on wheels, is guarded on either side by a low railing. These railings
+also extend across the cars, far enough from the ends to allow a four
+foot passage between each one. In material and finish, the floor of the
+train is uniform with that of the room. The railings are all of polished
+oak. Two cute little gates on each car open to the passage way at the
+ends.
+
+The machinery which propels this exaggerated perambulator, is run by
+electric power. It is so adjusted, as to be perfectly under the control
+of the nurses and teachers in charge of the room. The iron frames from
+which fifty swinging cribs are hung, occupy considerable space on
+several cars. These cribs are for the exclusive use of infants, too
+young or too weak to sit up. The remaining space on the cars of this
+infantile merry-go-round, which the mothers' club members have named the
+Cargosita, is furnished with a remarkable variety of single and double
+seats, made low enough to be comfortable for children from eight to
+thirty months old. These seats are as artistic as they are unique! They
+represent on a small scale, ostriches, swans, geese, dogs, goats,
+horses, mules, zebras, camels, elephants, tigers, and lions; wagons,
+phaetons, cycles, cars and a great variety of pleasure boats. The
+seating capacity of the cargosita is about three hundred, the number of
+children in the nursery and kindergarten, who are under four years of
+age. Older children become inmates of the regular schools.
+
+The cargosita, when ornamented with a profusion of silk flags,
+resplendent with gaily colored ribbon streamers, handsome mats and a
+choice collection of small potted plants, palms and flowers; becomes a
+thing of beauty, well calculated to capture and fascinate the childish
+heart. When the train is in motion, gaily spinning around this
+five-hundred-foot oval; the cribs and seats filled with bright happy
+children, smiling and crowing, their chubby little hands clapping in
+unison with the measure of such exquisite music as is discoursed by a
+giant orchestrion, or the electric piano, the vision becomes the
+loveliest and most inspiring one of a life time!
+
+When we consider the cargosita as an instrument for education, we find
+that it is even more potent as such, than as a thing for amusement. For
+the purpose of educating the senses, thus laying a sure foundation, for
+a broad, healthy, harmonious, development of the mind, it is invaluable!
+
+A child is the repository of infinite possibilities! Education, is the
+process of unfolding these possibilities, in harmony with natural law.
+To discover, and to apply this law, is the important work of the
+educator!
+
+To Prof. Elmer Gates, and to his remarkable discoveries in Psychology
+and Psychurgy, the modern educator owes a heavy debt of gratitude! From
+the teachings of Prof. Gates, we deduce; that in brain building, that
+primary step in education, psychologic functioning creates organic
+structure, and that organic structure is a manifestation in the
+concrete, of the activities of the mind. In other words, that planted,
+watered and nourished, by the emotions of the individual, the thoughts,
+ideas, concepts and images which arise, create a corresponding growth of
+cell structure in the brain. That these brain cells become the working
+tools of the mind.
+
+It follows then, that we cannot have thoughts, without first having
+sensations to form images and concepts, the soil out of which all
+thoughts naturally grow. Therefore, if in a practical way, all
+possibilities in the way of sensations, which may come through the
+avenue of each one of the child's senses, are fully developed; a sure
+foundation has been laid, for the largest possible development of brain
+and the corresponding growth of thought.
+
+In the natural order of the growth of thought, nature prescribes the
+following sequence: A union of sensations, produces images; a grouping
+of images, produces concepts; a relationing of concepts, produces ideas;
+a generalizing of ideas, produces thoughts of the first order; a
+generalization of thoughts of the first order, produces thoughts of the
+second order: a still wider generalization of thoughts of the second
+order, produces thoughts of the third order; progressing in like manner,
+to the highest ladder of the mental scale.
+
+In considering this order, we observe that sensations, form the base of
+the educational pyramid. All knowledge which comes to the ego, the seat
+of consciousness, must come through sensations produced by contact with
+material things in the domain of nature. Hence, as a primary step in
+educational work, a careful training of the senses, becomes a matter of
+the greatest importance. This training cannot be commenced, without
+first ascertaining what these senses are, and the natural order of their
+evolution.
+
+Commencing with the lowest, we have muscle feelings, or the sense of
+musculation; the sense of touch, the sense of pressure, the sense of
+warmth, the sense of cold, the sense of smell, the sense of taste, the
+sense of hearing and the sense of seeing. Altogether, we have nine
+important avenues, through which the inner man may gain a correct
+knowledge of the outer world.
+
+Professor Gates has discovered a system of sense training, which may be
+successfully applied to kindergarten children. In application, only a
+few minutes daily practice by each child, is required. By this training,
+in extending the upper and lower thresholds of sensation, the capacity
+of each sense, may be doubled from five to eight times. To the
+inexperienced, this proposition is so stupendous, that it seems almost
+unthinkable! However, we may state parenthetically, that an application
+of this system, to children in the Solaris kindergarten, has shown such
+marvelous results, that its efficacy and excellence have been well
+established. It has proved fully equal to the demands of twentieth
+century progress!
+
+Turning again to the teachings of Prof. Gates, we learn that mind is the
+key-stone and the arch of life, the all-containing attribute, which
+combines all forms of its expression: that to properly cultivate the
+mind, is to extend the scope and usefulness of life. Hence, that in
+choosing a system of education, which will be in harmony with planetary
+evolution, therefore, the easiest and most natural. We must never lose
+sight of one great, central, primal fact. It is this. The mind of the
+child, which is to be unfolded, is the production of the cosmic
+universe; therefore, cannot be in fundamental antagonism with it. It
+follows, then, that if children gather their sensations, images,
+concepts, ideas, and thoughts, directly from the phenomena of that
+universe, they will acquire a kind of knowledge, so real, so superior,
+that it will stand the test of an eternity. It is actual knowledge!
+There is no theory, no speculation, no guesswork about it!
+
+The sciences, are facts regarding the phenomena of the universe,
+classified and arranged in an orderly manner. All facts of every kind,
+naturally fall into the domain of some one of the sciences.
+
+Man, as the highest expression of the planet, in his three-fold nature,
+becomes the gleaner, the classifier, and the repository of these facts.
+A beautiful exposition of the clever handiwork, of the law of action and
+re-action. As a cosmic unit of the larger cosmos, the more perfect his
+knowledge of the universe, the more complete, is his store of knowledge
+in relation to himself.
+
+Children, in order to become properly equipped students, must, when
+ready to take up the sciences, be prepared to determine what the actual
+sensations are, out of which the different possible images of the
+sciences are composed. To achieve the most thorough education possible,
+they must know the actual number of concepts in each science, and
+precisely the images out of which they have arisen! They will then be
+prepared, to collect and classify, the mentative data of the sciences.
+That is, they will be able to determine for themselves, experimentally,
+the sensations, images, concepts, ideas and thoughts, which belong to
+each one.
+
+Practice in this useful training, will lead the pupil, to the higher,
+wider generalizations of thought, which belong to the domain of pure
+reason. In the work of classification, by detecting differences, a
+knowledge of the inductive process is gained. Similarly, by detecting
+likenesses, a knowledge of deductive reasoning is acquired.
+
+The body, like the brain, being composed of a co-operative colony of
+more or less intelligent cells, is an important part of the mind, which
+responds to educational training. True education, then is a development
+of both mind and body, in accord with the law of natural evolution, that
+embraces all there is in the domain of morals, pertaining to right
+thinking, right living and right doing. In other words, the action of
+the mind comprehends the physical, intellectual, moral and spiritual
+expression of the individual. Therefore, by the rightly conducted
+processes of a higher education, we may form an evenly developed
+character of the highest order. A character, unfolded physically,
+intellectually and spiritually, in harmony with the requirements of
+cosmic law. Hence, the imperative necessity, in the early training of
+children, of introducing the first steps of this system of true
+education.
+
+From these premises we must conclude, that the first four years of a
+child's life, should be devoted to some systematic method, for acquiring
+a most complete equipment of exact images, which will afford the basis
+for typical sensations, emotions, ideas and thoughts, regarding things
+in the domain of nature, about which, later in life, the child must
+know in order to become educated. To this end, children must have
+opportunities during these important years of image building, to
+experience all the sensations, and to form all the true images, that can
+come to them through the senses of seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling,
+touching, feeling and sensations of temperature, such as heat and cold.
+
+It is of the utmost importance, that these early images, which are to
+become the standard of the mind, in all judgments of future years;
+should be made as complete and as perfect as possible.
+
+A child is primarily and instinctively imitative. From the first dawn of
+intelligence, children strive to emulate the acts of their brighter,
+older and better-taught associates. Hence, the necessity for a nursery
+and kindergarten training, such as the one instituted at Solaris.
+Practical work, in this novel and magnificently equipped institution,
+has proved conclusively, that, even in early infancy, associated
+together in happy groups, children acquire intellectual, moral and
+physical training, much more easily and swiftly, than is possible under
+any other circumstances. This affords another demonstration, of the
+efficacy of co-operative group work, in the primary steps of education.
+
+The cargosita, is well calculated to offer children the most perfect
+conditions, for accumulating a well selected store of sensations and
+images, through the avenues of the different senses. A teacher or nurse,
+usually some member of the mothers' club, is seated on each car as the
+center of its group. It becomes her pleasure, to direct attention to the
+various objects. Let us follow the cargosita with its precious freight,
+as it slowly moves around the oval.
+
+Images produced by the sense of seeing, are first in order. Large
+sheets of thick, heavy paper mounted on cloth, seven in number,
+displaying the different colors of the rainbow, are hung at uniform
+intervals around the room. They can be raised or lowered, to reach an
+easy angle of vision from the cars. After each primary color, appear
+half-width sheets of the same height, displaying the various hues, tints
+and shades of that particular color. Printed across each sheet in large
+white letters, is the name of the color, hue, tint or shade. Altogether,
+this color scheme forms a combination of great length, of such
+remarkable variety, that it becomes for the little ones, a well nigh
+inexhaustable source of fascinating amusement.
+
+Red, with its various hues, tints and shades, is the first color to be
+exhibited. Three days later, another color series is substituted. This
+course is continued until the entire series is finished. The children
+have experienced in a regular sequence, the sensations and images,
+produced by the entire scale of color. These mental pictures have been
+repeated so often, in connection with the muscular sense of exhilarating
+motion, that they have become permanently enregistered in brain-cell
+formation. A review every few months, serves to fix these images more
+firmly in the brain.
+
+This primary course of educative work is continued, by taking up
+consecutively, in regular order; on a separate series of sheets, life
+size, naturally colored photographs, of fishes, reptiles, insects,
+birds, animals, and people. Later, geological specimens, glass, rocks
+and minerals. To be followed by pictures of life in the vegetable
+kingdom, flowers, fruits, plants and trees. Again, with photographs of
+works of art, paintings and statuary.
+
+Interspersed with this general course, are short lessons, offered to
+produce true images, in the hearing, smelling and tasting areas of the
+brain.
+
+First, by repeating at different times, while the cargosita is in
+motion, with its cargo of infantile passengers, all of the best musical
+compositions, executed vocally, and on the electric piano, the giant
+orchestrion, the violin, and a great variety of other musical
+instruments. These lessons in hearing, are repeated and varied, until
+the children have become familiar with most of the sounds in the tone
+scale. The mental sound images produced, have been associated with the
+happy scenes of this merry kindergarten life. By this interweaving of
+pleasant sensations, they have become more firmly fixed in a healthy
+group of brain cells, thus planted and established in the hearing areas
+of the brain.
+
+Second: In a similar manner, the taste sensations and images, are
+produced and registered. Day after day, one by one, tiny packages of
+confections, beautifully wrapped in brilliantly colored papers, are
+given to the children while on their cargosita excursions. These
+interesting lessons are continued, until the entire range of savors has
+been exhausted. The curiosity, excitement, pleasure and eagerness
+exhibited by children, in these tasting investigations, is something
+surprising.
+
+Third: Flowers, beautiful flowers of all kinds, are largely used in
+producing sensations and images, to be registered in the brain areas of
+the sense of smell. The essence of odors which cannot be gotten from
+flowers, are used to saturate small sachet bags, of charming color and
+artistic design. These bags make attractive play-things for the
+children. While using them they soon, unconsciously, become very
+skillful in detecting the slightest differences between the various
+odors. Brain areas usually left barren, are now filled and developed.
+
+Later in life, when children come to study the different sciences, this
+ability to detect the presence of the slightest odor, becomes
+invaluable, in the difficult work of classification. With such an
+unusual equipment, they will be far in advance of those pupils, who have
+not wisely, left uncultivated this important sense of smelling.
+
+In connection with the regular course of exercises, prescribed for
+third- and fourth-year children, there is introduced in the play and work
+rooms of the kindergarten, a special training, designed to develop the
+various sensations of heat and cold: changes in temperature, from one
+extreme to the other: sensitiveness to touch: to recognize any degree of
+pressure, from zero to the violence of pain: ability to detect size,
+length, breadth, and thickness: degrees of smoothness, elasticity, and
+hardness: all through the senses of touch, pressure, and muscular
+feeling.
+
+Interesting plays are invented for the children, into which, these
+exercises are skillfully introduced. These plays, have a peculiar
+fascination. They excite an intense interest, which seems to always
+attract and hold the child's attention, until there is enregistered, in
+regular sequence, in the touch areas of the brain, all the sensations
+and images, which can be produced by many weeks of training, in this
+systematic course.
+
+The training of the senses, is also carried forward through the medium
+of such plays as are calculated to bring out the child's capacity to
+distinguish the least noticeable difference, in pitches of color,
+degrees of light, pitches of sound, with its degrees of volume and
+loudness; together, with ability to discover the least noticeable
+difference, in resistance to pressure, or the slightest increase or
+decrease of rythmical motion, etc. The lines of least noticeable
+difference, in the capacity of the various senses, having been well
+established, the training commences along those lines. Very soon, in the
+brain areas of the senses under training, there comes an increased cell
+growth, which gives added sharpness and capacity. The line of least
+noticeable difference, is moved one step nearer the limit. This process
+is continued with each sense separately, until the limit for all has
+been reached. As a general result of this training, we find that the
+child has acquired an extraordinary reinforcement of brain power and
+intellectual acuteness.
+
+Regular kindergarten work, for children at Solaris, between two and four
+years of age; is again reinforced, by adding to the list of exercises, a
+large number of plays, which introduce the variously colored, lettered
+blocks, so successfully used in Fern Fenwick's early training, during
+her seven years of Alaska life.
+
+The collection of blocks, is a very large one. It is calculated to
+furnish a series of new combinations, which cannot be exhausted, in the
+plays of one whole year. These blocks are made and colored with the
+greatest care. The groups or families, are distinguished, by size, shape
+and color. The Alphabet blocks, are large cubes, painted white, with the
+letter showing in black on every side. All other blocks, have a uniform
+thickness of one-half inch. They are as large as can be fashioned from
+blocks two inches square. The names appear in white letters, on all
+alike.
+
+The astronomy blocks are star shaped, painted blue. The geology blocks
+are diamond shaped, painted brown. The chemistry blocks are hexagonal in
+shape, painted red. The geography blocks are globular in shape, painted
+gray. The blocks representing physics, are octagon shaped, painted
+yellow. The botany blocks are oblong, painted green. The physiology
+blocks are triangular in shape, painted pink. The history blocks are
+square, painted black. A large number of the key-words of the sciences,
+are painted on blocks, which, in size, shape and color, are counterparts
+of those that represent the heads of families to which they belong.
+
+This scheme of blocks, furnishes the ground work for the construction of
+a great number of games, for the amusement and edification of the
+children. Games of word-building, such as spelling out the names of
+fishes, insects, reptiles, birds and animals. Also of building the names
+of familiar things, houses, stables, light-houses, factories and mills;
+rivers, ponds, lakes, mountains, trees and fields; hats, shoes, coats,
+cloaks and other articles of clothing; common household utensils in
+every day use, such as pots, kettles, pans, pails, cups, knives, forks
+and spoons; stove, shovel, tongs, mop and broom; toys, dolls, balls,
+kites, tops, etc.
+
+By the use of many such ingenious games, the children unconsciously
+become familiar with the names of the sciences, and with all the
+principal words, which belong to each one. For example: Names of
+heavenly bodies in the domain of astronomy. The sun, the moon, the milky
+way, the planets, the constellations, the polar star, and the names of
+twenty stars of the greatest magnitude: In the domain of geology,
+fossils, shells, minerals, rocks, shales, clays, gravels, and the names
+of geological periods: In the domain of chemistry, the names of acids,
+gases, metals, crucibles, retorts, mortars, and the names of a great
+variety of chemical combinations: In the domain of geography, globes,
+hemispheres, continents, islands, oceans, gulfs, bays, and straits;
+equator, tropics, circles, longitude, latitude, etc. These examples,
+will furnish an approximate idea of the wide scope in scientific names,
+covered by these key-words, when applied to all of the sciences.
+
+In such plays of science grouping, the interest and pleasure of the
+children is intensified, by applying a system of personification, to the
+families of the different sciences: For instance, Mr. Astronomy Blue;
+Mrs. Geology Brown; Mr. Chemistry Red; Mrs. Geography Gray, etc.
+
+In the greatest and most useful of all games, the game of
+classification: Groups of children, spend hours with their teachers or
+directors, in separating and classifying, heaps of miscellaneous blocks,
+bearing the names of the sciences and the key-words belonging thereto.
+They are silent, absorbed, contented, thoroughly interested and happy.
+So intense is the interest displayed, that after the fourth or fifth
+game, every child can correctly classify the blocks, by quickly placing
+them in the groups to which they belong. They rapidly learn to call the
+name at sight, which is printed on any block they may happen to pick up.
+Those who have not learned to read by playing word-building games with
+the alphabet blocks, only need to have an unfamiliar name, repeated to
+them three or four times by the director, and it is fixed. Size, shape
+and color of block, with length of name and shape of its letters, soon
+serves to make the little ones, perfect masters of the most difficult
+names.
+
+These children have learned the value of time. They have learned to
+appreciate the joyousness of useful amusement. They have no desire to
+clog their minds, with the untruthful trash of fairy tales and Mother
+Goose stories, which played such an important part in nineteenth century
+methods. They no longer need such silly things, as a source of
+amusement. They seem to realize, that they only have mind-room, for the
+truthful, the useful and the practical.
+
+The value and significance of figures, is taught by the game of forming
+the pyramid. On badges of broad, blue ribbon, are printed large gold
+figures, from one to ten. Inside the oval, in the center of the large
+room, ten rows of seats are arranged: with one seat in the first, and
+ten in the last row. That is, one seat is added to each succeeding row.
+
+At the commencement of the game, when number one is called by the
+director, the little boy or girl, who is decorated with the badge
+bearing that number, takes the first seat, which forms the apex of the
+pyramid. The two children who wear number two badges; when called take
+seats in the second row. Observing this order, the calling is continued
+until the seats are filled, and the pyramid of fifty-five children is
+complete.
+
+The director, having taken a position a short distance in front of the
+apex of the pyramid, proceeds to call the children to their feet.
+Calling by number, commencing with the tens, the rows rise in
+succession, from the base to the apex. Each row is called upon to
+perform some part of a short series of graceful gymnastics. Then, the
+whole group in unison. Later, these exercises are made more
+interesting, by giving each child a small silk flag. In this part of the
+game, the children are at their best. The picture they make, is just
+lovely!
+
+In the closing part of the game, the children are seated and the
+mathematical exercises are introduced. The director says: "Each child
+has one nose. How many noses, have the number tens? Again, each child
+has one body. How many bodies, have the number nines? Each child has two
+eyes. How many eyes, have the number eights? Each child has two ears.
+How many ears, have the number sevens? Each child has one mouth. How
+many mouths, have the number sixes? Each child has two arms. How many
+arms, have the number fives? Each child has two hands. How many hands,
+have the number fours? Each child has two legs. How many legs, have the
+number threes? Each child has two feet. How many feet, have the number
+twos? Each child has ten fingers and ten toes. How many fingers and
+toes, has number one?" These questions are varied and repeated, day
+after day, until every child in the pyramid, can answer any one of the
+questions, correctly and promptly. To be chosen as a member of this
+game, is a coveted honor, it is conferred as a reward for good conduct.
+Consequently, the pride and pleasure exhibited by these decorated and
+selected children, is commensurate with the importance of this very
+primitive class in mathematics and physiology.
+
+This very brief outline, of the plays, exercises and studies, which form
+the nursery and kindergarten course, for children at Solaris, who are
+under four years of age, will serve to show how much important
+knowledge, a child can accumulate during those fruitful image-bearing
+years, while pleasantly and zealously engaged, day after day, in a
+series of wisely directed games.
+
+In playing these games, the children have become interested in, and have
+learned a very large number of useful words. These words in the mind of
+the child, are as familiar and as easily remembered, as are the names of
+favorite toys, such as balls, bats, kites and dolls. This wide
+vocabulary of key-words which has become the mental property of the
+child, has planted in the mind the necessary images, which in future
+years of study, will serve as a sure foundation, for the quick and easy
+mastery of all branches of useful knowledge. Many a man of the world has
+gone through life, without acquiring such a vocabulary.
+
+Considering this primary course of study from another point of view, we
+have an illustration of the value of a method for cultivating the
+faculty of memory, which differs widely from any thing known to ordinary
+systems of education. From this illustration, we perceive that the
+perfectness and permanency of memory, is dependent on the foundations
+which have been laid for it, by the quantity and quality of sensations
+and images, regarding the things to be remembered, which have been
+registered or planted in brain-cell formation. These living images,
+fixed on the sensitive plate of the brain by the law of vibration, in a
+manner somewhat analogous to etching on the cylinders of a phonograph,
+are capable of being reproduced by the will-force of the individual.
+From these premises, we have gained a new definition for the word
+memory. It is a process of refunctioning or reregistering, any
+sensation, image, concept, idea, or thought, which at any time has
+become a part of the growth of the brain.
+
+In the child's mind, memories regarding objects or words which have
+become familiar, are as a rule, closely connected with memories of keen
+enjoyment, resulting from participation in some childish sport. These
+memories are many times repeated. A few small groups of brain cells have
+become dominant in growth, because they have received the full force of
+the entire stimulating power of the brain. Hence, the memories of
+childhood, are much more enduring than those of after life. Hence, it
+becomes a matter of the utmost importance, that these early images,
+should be connected with the greatest possible number of natural
+objects, their names, and the key-words of the sciences, which are used
+to describe them.
+
+In these restless years for the little ones, it becomes a matter of
+great moment, to keep their minds busily employed, at what appeals to
+their self-consciousness, as some useful work. In this respect, the
+popular science games, gratify and completely satisfy the pride and
+dignity of these embryo men and women. The mind is naturally unfolded.
+The brain areas, are all evenly and harmoniously developed. The
+children, when so usefully employed, are kept amiable. They do not
+become nervous, irritable, cross, or vicious. They are taught, as soon
+as they can walk and talk, that the self-respect and innate dignity,
+which belongs to them as little men and little women, demands that they
+should always treat each other lovingly, politely, kindly, unselfishly.
+It is continually urged upon them, that they must learn to obey the
+nurse or teacher, without delay, without a murmur; that they must not
+cry or be fretful; that in these things, they must always strive to
+imitate the good acts of older comrades or playmates. In this way, the
+moral unfoldment and education of the child, keeps pace with the
+intellectual and the physical. Altogether, the effect is most excellent!
+Thousands of children have gone to ruin, for the want of just such
+training, in the first four years of life!
+
+The planning and final organization, of this novel scheme for nursery
+and kindergarten training, has been the joint work of Fern Fenwick,
+Fillmore Flagg, Gertrude and George Gerrish. In striving for the best
+results, this quartet of co-operative educators, have been ambitious to
+perfect a system, which would satisfy the demand for a natural,
+harmonious unfoldment of the well-born babies, which were to represent
+the highest product of Solaris Farm.
+
+The success which has attended the practical operation of the scheme,
+has made them very happy. Towards this success, Fern Fenwick has been
+able to contribute largely, on account of her early Alaska training, and
+her thorough knowledge of the improved methods, growing out of the
+important discoveries made by Prof. Gates.
+
+In applying the system to the class work of the regular schools, the
+long experience, trained skill and natural aptitude as teachers, of
+George and Gertrude Gerrish, has proved wonderfully effective.
+
+By supplementing the system, with a very complete course of manual
+training in the use of tools, and in acquiring a competent knowledge of
+the industrial arts, Fillmore Flagg has been equally successful, in
+educating the muscular children, and in arming them most effectively,
+both mentally and physically, for the practical work of life.
+
+Altogether, the complete course, results in an all-round development of
+brain power, more than five times greater than that offered by any other
+system. A result, which marks the beginning of a new educational era. A
+result, which promises to give to the world, a dominant race of
+thinkers, whose ability to bless mankind, is to be so great, that it
+cannot now be estimated.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX.
+
+AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR.
+
+
+In the month of August, 1911, six years after our first introduction to
+him, we find our hero, Fillmore Flagg, seated in his private office at
+Solaris. This office was located in a building on the public square,
+near the store, which has been especially designed and constructed, for
+use as the central office for the general co-operative, farm movement.
+Here, Fillmore Flagg, has been busily engaged for more than two months,
+in planning the preliminary work for eight new farms. For the moment, he
+seems absorbed in a dreamy reverie. From this, he was sharply aroused by
+the entrance of a messenger, who announced a visitor. The visitor proved
+to be none other, than our old acquaintance, George Gaylord. The
+greetings, exchanged between these re-united college chums, were cordial
+indeed! In the conversations which are to follow, the reader will find a
+continuation of the story of Solaris Farm.
+
+"Shades of venus! How well you are looking, Fillmore! I need not ask
+how you have fared since last we met! One look at your face, tells the
+whole story! The goddess of good fortune, must have smiled on you right
+royally! I congratulate you most heartily! The fame of your exploits
+here at Solaris, has reached New England! What a lovely village you have
+made! And the farm too, is just delightful! To behold it, is well worth
+the price of a long journey! Of course, at some convenient time, you are
+to show me the farm, and tell me all about it."
+
+"Thank you George, for your congratulations; You have surmised
+correctly! I have been prospered, far beyond my most sanguine
+expectations! At the proper time, I shall take pleasure in relating the
+whole story for your benefit. Now, I am anxious to hear something
+regarding yourself. Tell me, my dear fellow! To what piece of good
+fortune, do I owe this unexpected visit? And, may I hope, that the
+goddess you just mentioned, has been equally gracious with her smiles
+for you!"
+
+"It is a long story, Fillmore, and I can assure you it is not a pleasant
+one. It seems a pity to mar your peace of mind by relating such a
+miserable tale of woe! During the past five years, the unkind fates have
+frowned upon me, and I have suffered much! In order to give you an
+intelligent reason for my visit to Solaris, I must tell you of some
+good, and many bitter things which have transpired, since we parted at
+the hotel on Mount Meenahga."
+
+"Really! George, I am sorry for your misfortunes! But surmising so much
+from your preparatory statement, I now wish to know all that you can
+consistently tell me. For the bitterness and suffering, you have my
+sympathy in advance."
+
+"Thank you Fillmore! I knew that I could rely on your sympathy and
+friendship, under all circumstances. Please pardon any lack of coherence
+or orderly arrangement of details, in what I am about to relate.
+
+"Late in the month of November, which followed our parting in the
+mountains, in accordance with previous arrangements, I took charge of
+the church in the New England city, where my uncle George resided. My
+relations with the members of the congregation, proved as pleasant as
+could be desired. I became acquainted with Martha Merritt, my uncle's
+niece by marriage. She was a beautiful girl! Very winning, sweet and
+amiable. I soon became fond of her company. This seemed to please both
+my uncle and my mother. I could see that they had set their hearts on a
+marriage between Martha and myself.
+
+"About the middle of the following January, acting on a suggestion from
+uncle George, I asked Martha for her hand in marriage. After taking a
+whole week for consideration, she finally consented and we were engaged.
+Some days later, I urged her to name an early day for our wedding. Very
+much to my surprise, she said 'You must not hurry me, George! You must
+give me time!' I hastened to assure her that I did not wish to be
+inconsiderate, and begged her to take another week, in which to fix the
+date. During this time, I saw very little of Martha. In the brief
+interviews that followed, she was pale and agitated. At the end of the
+week, again her old-time self, she came to me with the news that our
+wedding day had been fixed for the fifteenth of June, five months
+distant.
+
+"Early in February, the clouds of disaster began to gather. My mother
+was confined to her bed with what proved to be a serious illness. After
+four months of almost constant suffering, which she bore with the
+patience and fortitude of a martyr, she was borne across the dark water,
+to join that vast majority, that silent, mysterious, ever increasing
+host of the buried dead.
+
+"My mother was buried on the fifteenth of June. Overwhelmed with grief,
+I readily assented to Martha's suggestion, that our wedding should be
+postponed until the first of October. Recovering slowly from the shock
+of my bereavement, I turned eagerly to Martha, for loving consolation. I
+was horrified, to find that her affection for me had turned to
+ill-concealed aversion! There was a terror-stricken, haunted look in her
+eyes, as she strove in every possible way, to avoid being left alone
+with me even for a moment, which frightened and almost crushed me with
+grief. I knew that something dreadful, must have happened! She was so
+pitiful to behold, that I could not be angry or jealous! But, I resolved
+to know the truth. At the first opportunity, I demanded an explanation.
+Bursting into tears, she told me the story of her bitter experience.
+
+"Falling on her knees beside my chair, Martha implored me to be
+merciful. 'George,' she said, 'I know that I am the most wretched, and
+the most desperately wicked girl on the face of the earth! You have been
+so kind, and I have treated you so shamefully! How, can you ever forgive
+me? The only reparation that I can now make, is to tell you the whole
+truth, without reservation. Ten months before I saw you, while I was at
+school near Boston, I met Phillip Plato. The fates would have it, that
+we should fall desperately in love with each other, at our first
+meeting. In a short time we were engaged. In entering into this
+engagement, I did so without the knowledge of my uncle, or any friend. I
+did not stop for a moment, to consider my duty to uncle George, who had
+always been so good to me. I could think of no one but Phillip, and of
+my love for him. In the delirium of love's first dream, the weeks passed
+as days! Alas! The dream was passing brief! Somehow, Phillip's parents
+became aware of our engagement. They were very wealthy, and exceedingly
+ambitious to have Phillip marry more wealth. Angry with him, they came
+to me and cruelly declared, that they would never allow him to wed such
+a fortuneless girl! With look and gesture of scorn, they told me that
+they were just on the eve of going abroad, taking Phillip for two years
+of travel, in which they should strive to cure him completely of his
+insane infatuation. This, then was the end of my romance. My cruelly
+wounded pride, rose up in rebellion. I was furious! I returned scorn for
+scorn! I bade them begone!
+
+"'I returned to my uncle's home, my heart hot with the indignation of an
+outraged pride, and filled with a determination, to show to the world no
+sign, but to use all my strength of will, to cast Phillip out of my
+life; to utterly forget him and his selfish, greedy, heartless parents.
+When you came, George, I was more anxious than ever before, to please my
+uncle in every possible way. I foolishly imagined, that in encouraging
+your attentions as a lover, I was helping myself, to forget my love for
+Phillip. Oh! What a terrible, cruel mistake! How terrible, how cruel, I
+was soon to realize. You will remember, George, how strangely I behaved
+at that interview, in which you asked me to fix the day for our
+wedding. Let me explain. A few hours previous, while I was lost in one
+of my occasional fits of melancholy moping, the voice of Phillip came to
+my ears with startling distinctness. The voice said Martha, you must
+remain true to me! I love you as devotedly as ever! I am determined,
+never to give you up! I am coming home to wed you! I am surely coming!
+Wait for me! These words kept ringing in my ears, like the tolling of a
+funeral bell. They thrilled me through and through! The barriers of my
+pride gave way. The returning tide of my love for Phillip, swept in upon
+me with such force, that my heart almost ceased to beat! I was faint,
+deadly faint! When I recovered consciousness and afterwards, at our
+interview, I was absolutely wretched! Your request, added to my anguish.
+I was powerless to answer, I could only beg for more time. All through
+that dreadful week, I strove to convince myself that my ears had
+deceived me, that the voice was not real, only a phasma, a
+hallucination, born of my fits of melancholy. Unfortunately, I finally
+succeeded!
+
+"'Now, George, you shall hear the sequel, the climax of my wretchedness.
+The day before your mother died, I received a long letter from Phillip.
+It was written at Rome. Every line of that letter, was eloquent with
+Phillip's steadfast devotion, and love for me. In brief, a complete
+verification of what the warning voice had told me. His parents had
+relented. He was coming home to make me his bride. He had planned to
+arrive at Boston, in time to celebrate the New Year. He spoke of a long
+letter, which he had written to me, just on the eve of his going abroad.
+In that letter he had assured me of his undying love, of his
+determination never to give me up. In closing, he had begged me to wait
+for him, to remain true to him. He had repeated its contents, because he
+had been constantly haunted with the idea that the letter in question,
+had failed to reach me. And so it had.
+
+"'This, George, is the summing up of my misery! It has filled my heart
+with the anguish of despair! I can never love anyone but Phillip! I
+cannot marry you, George! I cannot! It would be an unpardonable sin
+against you, against my own soul! What shall I do? What can I do? What
+atonement can I ever make, for the shame, the humiliation, the
+suffering, which I have brought into your life?'
+
+"In this brief sketch, Fillmore, you have the substance of Martha's sad
+story. I believe it was absolutely true. I was deeply moved, by her
+abject misery and humiliation. A great wave of tender sympathy, swelled
+in my heart; blotting out all thoughts of self. I gave her back her
+engagement, and bade her go free; free to marry whomsoever her heart had
+chosen; assured of my forgiveness, and of my wish for her future
+happiness. I need not repeat her grateful thanks. From this time
+forward, our lives were widely separated.
+
+"During the long tedious months that followed, I was going through a
+bitter, humiliating experience. I strove by every effort to so interest
+myself in my church work, that I might forget my griefs and my
+disappointments. In this, I failed utterly. I found to my amazement,
+that I did not possess a thorough belief or confidence, in the efficacy
+of the atonement, the very ground work of the entire scheme of Christian
+salvation. Without this belief, I could not hope to do effective work in
+the ministry. No doubt, this was the cause of my lack of interest in my
+pastoral duties; the one thing, during this time of trials, which most
+disturbed my mental equilibrium, and added to the intensity of my
+sufferings. My growing antipathy towards all kinds of church work, daily
+increased the mental tension, caused by anxious seasons of watching,
+praying, and fighting, against the farther dominancy of this monstrous
+antipathy. All opposing efforts proved useless. With each succeeding
+week, my Sunday services became more burdensome, more perfunctory, more
+unsatisfactory, more self-accusing. At last, in self defense, the church
+trustees proposed my taking a year's vacation, for recuperation.
+
+"This welcome respite, I gladly accepted. My vacation, is now nearly
+finished. I cannot go back to my church. I do not wish to go. I realize,
+that I am wholly unfitted for its duties. I feel, that I have made life
+a failure! In fact, Fillmore, you see before you in your friend George
+Gaylord, a man who is aimlessly drifting on the sea of life, like a ship
+without a rudder. A man not yet thirty, without a home, without
+ambition, hope or purpose! Possibly, I may be in the clutches of some
+approaching attack of nervous prostration, I hope not, I am sure!
+
+"You must pardon my prolixity, Fillmore. I will now give you the reason
+for my present visit to Solaris. After my mother became very ill, some
+weeks before her death, she received a letter from Caroline Houghton, a
+life long friend, an old schoolmate. At that time, Mrs. Houghton was
+residing in a small town near Denver, Colorado. She was a widow with
+scant means of support; with only one child, a daughter. Mrs. Houghton,
+in her letter, said: 'I am dying among strangers! I am leaving my
+darling daughter alone in the world, without money, without relatives;
+simply in charge of recently acquired friends. As a last request, I beg
+you, after I am gone to exercise a protecting care over my orphaned
+child!'
+
+"This letter worried my mother greatly. I think if she had been well,
+she would have hurried to Mrs. Houghton's bedside. After some delay, she
+finally turned the letter over to me to answer. Just at that time, my
+mind was wholly preoccupied with preparations for my fast approaching
+wedding day; and also, with the adjustment of a number of important
+church matters, which demanded my immediate attention. Without taking
+time to read the letter, without realizing its importance, or its
+urgency; I mechanically placed it in my desk, thinking meanwhile, that
+when the time came in which I could pen a reply, I would then confer
+with mother for further instructions. Unfortunately, the letter became
+misplaced and all memory of its existence, passed out of my mind!
+
+"One month ago, while busily engaged in assorting and rearranging a
+confusing mass of papers, I found the lost letter. After reading it
+carefully, I became conscience-smitten, as I thought what serious
+results might have followed my criminal negligence. I then commenced a
+search for this young lady, which has finally lead me to Solaris. I have
+traced her here, as a member of your colony. Her name is Honora Eloise
+Houghton. Do you know her, Fillmore! Is she here?"
+
+"Make yourself perfectly easy, friend Gaylord! She is here! She is all
+right! Miss Houghton does not need your protecting care, or the
+protecting care of anyone. She is abundantly able to take good care of
+herself and of plenty of other people besides! She can dissipate your
+troubles in a jiffy! She can give you something to think of, which will
+not fail to hold your close attention. She can soon find a work for you,
+in which you will be interested in spite of yourself! In fact George,
+Honora Eloise Houghton, is one of the brightest, most independent,
+capable, self-poised, self-supporting young women at Solaris! If she
+should kindly consent to take you under the brooding care of her
+protecting wing, in one month's time you would not know yourself, you
+would be transformed into a new man! But, Miss Houghton is a very busy
+woman. One of the most useful on the farm! Just at present, she is the
+leading director of the nursery and kindergarten school; the principal
+female teacher, in the gymnasium; the president of the dancing club; the
+secretary and treasurer of the physiology club; and vice-president of
+the botany, chemistry and history clubs. After faithfully performing the
+duties belonging to these offices, she still finds time to do a great
+amount of scientific research and reading; so much, that last year, she
+easily carried off the prize, which was awarded to the best qualified,
+scientific student among the young ladies at Solaris."
+
+"Stop, Fillmore! You grieve and astonish me! You surely must be jesting,
+in dishing up this long rigmarole, about Miss Houghton's
+accomplishments! After what I have told you, I cannot conceive how you
+can fail to understand, that I am not in a mood for jesting. As for the
+girl, I very much desire to meet her, that I may have an opportunity to
+express the regrets and apologies for my unfortunate neglect of her
+mother's letter, to which she is so justly entitled. This painful duty
+once performed, my interest in Miss Houghton will cease."
+
+"I assure you, George, I am not jesting! I am very much in earnest! I
+think I understand your case thoroughly. I know that you do not realize
+the seriousness of that paralyzing, apathetic condition, into which you
+have fallen. I do not think you need condolence, or any form of mild
+sympathetic treatment. I am sure you do need very much, to be aroused by
+new associations, scenes, friends and acquaintances; strong magnetic
+people, with ideas so radical, so startling, that by one quick wrench,
+your line of thought may be diverted into some entirely new channel. If
+therefore, in my talk to you about Miss Houghton, I have succeeded in
+arousing your indignation, in the slightest degree, I shall be
+encouraged by knowing that my efforts for your good, have been made in
+the right direction."
+
+"Pardon me, Fillmore! I fear I have been hasty! And, that I have
+entirely misjudged your motive! I am now in a much better frame of mind,
+to listen attentively to what you have to say."
+
+"That sounds much more reasonable, George. I will now return to my
+description of Miss Houghton, which was broken off by your interruption.
+For the reasons I have just stated, I believe that Miss Houghton, is the
+one individual in a thousand, whose acquaintance just at present, would
+prove most beneficial for you. Of course you have not seen her, you do
+not know her; therefore, you cannot appreciate the peculiar charm of her
+magnetic presence, or the force and dignity of her attractive character.
+For this reason, a personal description, will fail to give you an
+adequate idea of the noble type of womanhood which she represents.
+
+"However, George, after these preliminary remarks, I hasten to assure
+you, that as a woman, Honora Eloise Houghton, is a goodly person to
+behold. One inch less than six feet in height, straight as an arrow,
+broad of shoulder, and round of limb, swift of hand and foot, lithe and
+willowy in every motion, her commanding figure possesses the grace and
+beauty, of a Venus and a Diana combined. Her large, full, well turned
+neck and throat, fittingly supports a symmetrical, well poised head, of
+the same noble proportions. A long, thick, luxuriant growth of golden
+hair, brilliant with changing hues of a coppery tinge, seemingly so
+surcharged with electro-magnetic force, as to form a halo of sunshine
+around both face and head, is her chief personal adornment. Her large,
+oval face, well formed mouth, strong white teeth, firm chin, finely
+arched, strongly defined brows, broad, smooth forehead, and straight
+grecian nose; all denote a character of marked type and unusual force.
+Full, clear, gray eyes, set well apart, beautifully and mirthfully
+expressive, together, with a bright, ruddy complexion, are both
+indicative of Miss Houghton's perfect health and strong, vital,
+nervous-sanguine temperament. With this temperament and such a
+magnificent physique, reinforced by wonderful psychic powers, she is an
+ideal healing medium. The very personification of health! Such is the
+potency of her magnetic force, that among the people of Solaris, cures
+performed by the simple process of laying on of hands, have made her the
+marvel of the village; they have won for her the confidence, respect,
+admiration and love, of every member of the colony; man, woman or child.
+
+"In conclusion, George, I may say with pride, that Miss Houghton
+represents one of the noblest of women, which may be discovered, evolved
+or grown by the co-operative farm. As an exponent of what the movement
+can do for woman, she is a shining example, of which our people may well
+be proud!
+
+"Try to be patient with me, George! I have described this young lady, at
+such length, in order that you may meet her without prejudice. We will
+now go in search of Miss Houghton, for an interview. After introducing
+you, I will return here. When the interview is at an end, I will have my
+light, road mobile ready, and we will take a spin around the farm.
+Afterwards, if there should be time, we will take a run over to Fenwick,
+ten miles away."
+
+"That arrangement will suit me very well, Fillmore! I am now quite
+curious to meet Miss Houghton. After my interview with her is concluded,
+I shall be delighted to accompany you on a mobile excursion over the
+farm. I have in mind a host of questions, which I wish to ask; after my
+tour of inspection, I am sure I can frame them more intelligently."
+
+Four days later, we find George Gaylord, again seated in the office with
+Fillmore Flagg. They are speaking of things which have transpired,
+during the interval named.
+
+"You are looking decidedly better, to-day, George! I congratulate you!
+After the fright you gave me, while at the club dance, that evening
+after your arrival at Solaris, I thought you were ticketed for a long,
+serious illness."
+
+"Really, Fillmore, I have Miss Houghton to thank for being able to again
+walk and talk with some degree of steadiness! She is truly, the most
+marvelous woman, that I have ever met! There seems to be a healing power
+in the very touch of her garments! I feel quite sure, that she has
+saved my life. I ought to apologize to the members of the dancing club,
+for the very awkward sensation, which must have followed my unfortunate
+collapse; that sudden attack of giddiness and loss of consciousness.
+Miss Houghton tells me, that the attack lasted over an hour, after I had
+been placed on a cot in the hospital. Were you there, Fillmore?"
+
+"What a question, George! Of course I was there! That one hour, seemed
+three to me. Knowing something of your critical condition, I was blaming
+myself, for having foolishly attempted to crowd so much into your first
+day's experience at Solaris. However, Miss Houghton assured me, that I
+need not be alarmed over the trance-like condition, into which you had
+fallen. She seemed to understand your case from the first, and declared
+that she could cure you with a few days' treatment. She further stated
+for my benefit, that I was in no wise responsible for the attack of
+vertigo, which in your condition, was liable to occur at any time.
+
+"So far as the dancing club people are concerned, no apologies on your
+part are needed. They understand the circumstances, and wish me to
+assure you, that they will rejoice with you over your speedy recovery.
+It seems, George, that your physician prescribes plenty of fresh air and
+sunshine for you, during the next few days. Do you think you are strong
+enough to-day, for another mobile excursion over the farm?"
+
+"Yes Fillmore, quite strong enough, provided the excursion is not too
+long. To-morrow, if the weather should be fine, I hope we may be able to
+take that trip to Fenwick, which you spoke of on the afternoon of my
+arrival. The more I see of the farm, the more I am interested and
+delighted. In a very short time, I believe I might become an enthusiast
+on the agricultural question. Hitherto, I have had an unexpressed
+antipathy, towards farm work.
+
+"Strongly impressed with the idea, that a farm life must necessarily, be
+as dull as ditch water; I find Solaris a revelation, which has opened my
+eyes and scattered my foolish prejudices to the four winds. At every
+turn, some new surprise awaits me. My typical farmer, with his shock of
+untrimmed hair and beard, his stooping shoulders, his shambling,
+plow-following gait, his great cow-hide boots, his coarse, soiled,
+slouchy, ill-fitting blouse and overalls, his grimy hands, his
+ill-at-ease, uncultured manners, and his born-tired expression of
+countenance, I cannot find. In his place, much to my astonishment, I do
+find a splendid people, in the prime of life, lithe, active and
+energetic, in the possession of a superabundance of vitality, which
+gives them the graceful air of having grown to a perfect maturity, on
+the sunny side of life. What does it mean? Everywhere, I am politely
+greeted, by dignified, graceful, self-poised, rosy-cheeked, bright-eyed,
+happy, well-dressed, educated, refined and polished men and women. Can
+it be possible, that they are farm laborers?"
+
+"Every one, friend Gaylord! It is to rightly organized farm labor,
+properly supplemented by appropriate machinery, that these people owe
+the superior condition in which you find them."
+
+"You have surely created a new era in farming, Fillmore! Do you think a
+general introduction of co-operative farming, will produce equally
+successful results elsewhere?"
+
+"Much better and more satisfactory, George! Co-operative farming, even
+here at Solaris, has as yet scarcely passed the threshold of the
+experimental stage. Every new farm, will profit by the errors and
+successes of those previously established. Each one will add to the
+strength and working capacity of the mass. This improvement will
+steadily increase, until the children born under the new system, become
+its principal working factors. When that time arrives, the influence of
+the born and bred agriculturalists, will have grown so strong, socially
+and politically, that a new impetus will be given to the movement, by
+the favorable legislation which they can then command.
+
+"When we consider the future of the co-operative farm, as a working
+factor for good, in the affairs of the Republic; we can then appreciate
+the great importance of the movement. Stirpiculture, wedded to
+agriculture, ushers in a new era for the birth and education of an
+epoch-making race of dominant thinkers, so well born, so self-poised, so
+harmoniously developed, physically, intellectually, and spiritually,
+that without effort, they are naturally chosen by the masses, as social
+and political leaders."
+
+"What an enthusiastic dreamer you are, Fillmore! The picture of the
+future of the movement, which you have so graphically drawn, seems too
+good to be true! My brain is in a whirl trying to follow you! Let us now
+prepare for that promised ride."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XL.
+
+THE COMING ERA OF GOOD ROADS.
+
+
+"Since our mobile excursion to the farm village of Fenwick, I have been
+haunted by the beauty, smoothness, utility and durability, of the
+magnificent highway, which now connects the two villages. I am more than
+ever impressed with the power of the co-operative movement, to effect a
+revolution in all industrial methods; especially, in travel and the
+transportation of farm products. Tell me, Fillmore! Do you think this
+road-building fever, will continue to spread with the growth of the
+movement?"
+
+"Yes, George, with every new road, will come an added impetus to the
+movement, which will insure a steady progress. The importance of good
+roads as a source of wealth, and a mark of civilization, is just
+beginning to be understood by agricultural people, and by rural
+populations generally. Oppressed on every hand by the universal
+extortion of railroad monopoly, they are slowly awakening to a
+realization of the fact, that the question of cheap transportation, is
+for them, the one, overshadowing question, which demands immediate
+attention.
+
+"As an object lesson on the subject of good roads, the introduction, and
+constantly increasing use, of bicycles, motor cycles, motor freight
+wagons, automobiles, electro mobiles, locomobiles, and the entire class
+of vehicles equipped with rubber tires, has aroused a widespread
+interest, which is prophetic of great results. Acting as a strong
+reinforcement to this educational work, the co-operative farm, with the
+advantage of its village organization, representing in the public mind,
+such an attractive combination of agricultural, industrial and social
+life; will by the force of example, give an additional impetus to the
+systematic construction of broad, permanent highways; that shall prove a
+source of pride, to the community through which they pass; roads, that
+shall last for centuries.
+
+"Reacting favorably, in broadening the mission of the co-operative
+farm-village, with its promise of permanent homes, and employment for
+the unemployed, and the homeless; the continuous construction of these
+free avenues of travel and transportation, will soon affect the status
+of all rural populations, by vastly increasing their wealth and power.
+For them, the vexed problem of transportation, will be solved. They will
+discover by actual experience, that these wide, durable wagon roads,
+will connect them with distant centers of traffic, and serve them better
+and more honestly, than steam railroads; that in cost of construction
+and repair, they are much cheaper; that when constructed, they belong to
+the people as absolutely, free highways; that no greedy corporation, can
+control them; that no threatening, irritating, lawless force, of
+Pinkerton's armed thugs, is required to protect them; and finally, that
+they offer every inducement to unfettered genius, to invent and to
+freely exploit, better and cheaper vehicles.
+
+"As one grand result of this combined educational work, rural life will
+become exceedingly desirable and charming. The great city, will lose its
+attractive force. The tide of migration, will flow back to the pure air,
+invigorating sunshine, blue sky, and the verdure-clad hills of the
+country. In a general way, we may predict, that a few years hence,
+everywhere throughout this broad land, we shall find picturesque,
+prosperous, well populated villages. As the minor centers of education,
+art-culture, refinement, amusement, progressive race-culture, scientific
+agriculture, esthetic, social and co-operative life; they will be
+embroidered, like a vast net-work of shining pearls, on a perfect system
+of broad, smooth, highways. In their construction, ornamentation and
+maintenance, these good roads will utilize and express, the pride,
+energy and best inventive genius, of the village centers thus linked
+together. As a result, the Republic will be gridironed with a superb
+system of free highways, more permanent, more perfect, and more
+beautiful, than those old, historic, Roman roads, which even now are
+existing monuments to the solid character of Roman civilization.
+
+"This imperial road system will be complete, when the co-operative farm
+has reached every township in the union. Then, we may calculate the
+results, which are to follow. Broad, tree-shaded, park-lined,
+flower-bordered boulevards, will connect New York with San Francisco;
+Galveston with Saint Paul; Portland, Maine, with Portland, Oregon; Los
+Angeles with Saint Louis; Boston with Buffalo, Philadelphia, and
+Baltimore with Jacksonville, Florida; New Orleans with Cincinnati and
+Chicago; the wonders of Yellowstone Park, with the crags and glens of
+the White Mountains, Niagara Falls, with the Grand Canon of the
+Colorado; the orange groves of Florida and California, with the
+picturesque, cool, invigorating, health resorts of Lake Superior; the
+wheat fields of the great Northwest, with the coal mines of
+Pennsylvania; Washington, the nation's capital, with every seaside
+resort, every mountain view, every beautiful city, every healing
+spring, and every hamlet and village of the Republic.
+
+"Pulsing with a new tide of social and industrial life, flowing through
+the arteries of this unequaled system of great highways; all of these
+places, both great and small, will become more closely bound together,
+by the links of a new social order; representing the beginning of a
+higher civilization. Then, these beautiful highways, will be glorified
+and appreciated by mankind, as the monumental work of one, broad system,
+of co-operative farm villages. Then, these villages, which have made
+such a system possible, may collectively claim the proud distinction, of
+being known as the Nation's Committee on Good Roads."
+
+"Excellent! Most excellent! Fillmore. Your prophetic vision, with the
+vastness and the brilliancy of its sweeping scope, fairly takes my
+breath! Yet, I must confess, that judging from the masterly system of
+road-building inaugurated by Solaris and Fenwick, the evolutionary
+results which you so confidently predict, are both reasonable and
+logical. What additional results, do you claim for the system?"
+
+"At this time, George, neither tongue nor pen, may attempt to describe
+the marvelous results which will follow the introduction of an era of
+good roads. In a brief way, I will try to give a few of the most
+important. In the matter of travel and transportation, these free
+highways, will annually, save millions of dollars to citizens of the
+Republic, by enabling them to escape from the clutches of the largest
+and most powerful of all monopolies; the railway monopoly. A monopoly,
+that for many years, has held the public by the throat; exacting a
+tariff so exorbitant, as to be almost prohibitory. A monopoly, which
+has had the amazing gall to pose as the farmer's especial benefactor. A
+monopoly, that while so posing, has robbed the country of one-half its
+wealth, by transferring the same to cities. A monopoly, that in the name
+of good business, has had the stupidity to decree through its tariff
+schedule, that miles and miles of empty freight cars, shall daily,
+throughout the land, roll past hundreds of thousands of farms, where
+countless tons of heavy freight, in the way of fresh vegetables, lie
+rotting for the want of a market. A monopoly, that never neglects an
+opportunity for fleecing the public. A monopoly, so unscrupulous, that
+for the pork trust, it will haul a hog across the continent for ninety
+cents; while for indifferent service, it dares to charge the people,
+from two and one-half, to five cents per mile.
+
+"And yet, George, just think of it! In the beginning, this monopoly was
+chartered to serve the people who granted the franchise. A monopoly, now
+grown so bold, that when the public protests that the franchise is
+violated, because the interests of the people are no longer served; a
+Vanderbilt railroad king, insolently replies: 'The public be damned!' A
+monopoly that has killed all healthy competition, by organizing all
+railroads into one giant pool; thereby creating the mother of trusts,
+controlling a corruption fund of enormous magnitude. A monopolistic
+trust, grown so rich and powerful, as to be beyond the reach of law;
+boldly corrupting courts, buying legislators, and turning the
+administration of justice into a farce. In fact, this monstrous combine,
+has become so dangerous to every interest of good government, that the
+law of self-preservation demands that it shall be speedily wiped out, by
+the government ownership of all railroads.
+
+"We may now consider the ways and means, by which our co-operative
+system of good roads, can control railroad freights, and finally drive
+railroads to government ownership. Long before the close of the first
+half of the twentieth century, thousands of miles of these fine wagon
+roads, will be found in every State. Responding to the demands of
+legions of voters, who reside in the co-operative farm villages
+bordering these charming highways; a strong force of legislators, will
+everywhere rise up, as eloquent advocates of the good roads movement.
+Honest and faithful, inspired by a tenacity of purpose which will brook
+no opposition from railroad lobbies; encouraged and strengthened, by an
+ever increasing army of enthusiastic voters behind them, these tireless
+legislators will not halt, until the entire system of good roads, so
+well begun by the farm villages, shall be taken up, completed, and
+perfected by the State. Ten years of such forceful work, will surely
+accomplish the task.
+
+"Then, to the champions of the system, shall come their reward. They
+shall behold, flowing in mighty streams, over the wide, petroleum
+treated, dustless surfaces, of these far-reaching, absolutely free
+highways, the traffic and travel of a mighty Republic!
+
+"Then, will come the demonstration of what American genius can do,
+toward the evolution of a superior class of rubber tired, horseless
+vehicles, which shall prove the best, cheapest and most durable, for
+purposes of freight, traffic, and travel, on such a complete system of
+fine roads. The best of our present types, when compared with these
+twentieth century road flyers and freight rollers, will seem poor, crude
+affairs. The irresistible volume of this swift stream of the new
+travel, and the new transportation, eloquent with the progress of the
+century, will herald the coming of a well-merited doom for the
+monopolistic railroad combines.
+
+"Then, local travel and traffic, will make haste to desert the iron
+rails. Railroad freights everywhere, will fall to zero. Short
+railroads--branches and feeders to main lines--will become useless and
+worthless. Many of them will be sold at auction, for less than the cost
+of the iron in the road-bed.
+
+"Then, shorn of their ill-gotten gains, the mighty railroad kings of the
+land, will fall from their tall pedestals of pride, where for years,
+they have posed as owners of the earth. With financial ruin staring them
+in the face, they, and the whole brood of erstwhile railroad kings, will
+make urgent haste to sell to the government, at the bare cost of
+construction, such great through lines as may be necessary to maintain
+inter-state commerce, and across-the-continent traffic. Other roads,
+they may not sell at any price. A government for the people, and by the
+people, will have no further use for them.
+
+"Then at last, the supreme folly of having a half-dozen competing lines,
+running side by side through the same territory, will be fully
+demonstrated. With this demonstration, will come the opportunity, to
+scores of paid press writers, pessimistic bigots, self-conceited,
+unprogressive wiseacres, who have so long and so loudly derided the
+government ownership of railroads, as the most suicidal and unbusiness
+like scheme ever hatched; to answer this pertinent question: Would it be
+possible, for government engineers building public railroads, to ever be
+guilty of such monumental stupidity?
+
+"The social effect of these good roads, on the lives of all
+agricultural people, will prove even more important than the financial
+advantages gained. Hitherto, they have been so hampered by environments,
+by lack of means, and lack of leisure, that as a class they have been
+unable to enjoy or to appreciate the wonderful, the educational, the
+broadening and the refining effect of much travel, on the mind of the
+individual. From lack of experience, they do not realize that the sum of
+human life is the sum of its sensations, which are produced by change of
+environment, contact with a larger or lesser series of natural
+phenomena, and more especially with other lives.
+
+"The more progressive lessons of life, are learned from example and not
+from precept. Men and women, are only children of a larger growth, they
+are imitative creatures with a natural instinct to choose other, higher,
+and better lives as models. Hence the great value of travel as an
+educator. The larger the area covered by the traveler, the wider the
+field of experience and choice. Through the law of action and reaction,
+social contact with a multitude of actors and thinkers, refines the
+individual. A healthy spirit of emulation is aroused, which leads on to
+progress.
+
+"With the advent of a universal system of good roads, cheap travel, and
+a dominant combination of co-operative, industrial and agricultural
+enterprise, an extraordinary era of recreation and travel, will dawn for
+all rural people. Opportunity, leisure, and means will be abundant. All
+co-operative workers, can afford to take an annual vacation of at least
+one month. The ownership of a swift, roomy, durable, road machine,
+capable of making from twenty to thirty-five miles an hour, will be
+within the means of every family. In this private car, the family, or a
+select party, could easily and leisurely accomplish a five thousand mile
+tour in twenty days. Along the whole distance, farm villages, from
+fifteen to twenty minutes apart, would offer the travelers, machine
+supplies, repairs, and excellent hotel accommodations, for an expense
+not in excess of the same at home. Than this, no traveling excursion
+could be more delightful! For pure enjoyment, a select party of
+nineteenth century millionaires, could not equal it.
+
+"The enjoyment of such delightful opportunities for even a single
+decade, would make the rank and file of the republic thoroughly
+acquainted, with the soil, scenery, forests, lakes and rivers; the
+mining and manufacturing possibilities; the peculiar characteristics of
+the people, their local ambitions, political wants and future demands,
+of every state and county in the union.
+
+"Thus equipped with this important knowledge, each voter, both men and
+women alike, would be prepared at any time to vote intelligently and
+wisely, on every question affecting the welfare of the republic as a
+whole, or in part. Elected to Congress, these voters would appear as the
+ablest, most patriotic, most just, and most incorruptible body of
+law-makers ever known. Understanding the equities of righteous dealing
+between themselves as fellow citizens, they would be prepared to decide
+correctly on all questions of an international character, which might
+affect the interests of the world at large. This would be a
+demonstration of the rule, as to the formation of a true republic. To
+make the entire political fabric both enduring and progressive, the
+units or voters, must be well born and rightly trained. Of this
+training, travel is an essential part, which should not, which must not
+be overlooked.
+
+"As affecting their social and intellectual progress, these years of
+travel would improve all classes of agricultural and industrial people,
+to a still higher degree than the one achieved in political expression.
+A general interest would be aroused in questions of political economy,
+race culture, psychology, and physiology; geology, geography and
+history, botany, chemistry, and mineralogy; which later, would lead to
+close reading and hard study in the whole domain of scientific research,
+as the one sure method of increasing the scope of individual happiness.
+Every succeeding year of this travel-training, would result in binding
+all classes still more firmly together, into one harmonious, homogeneous
+mass. Now George, tell me what you think of the good-roads question! Is
+it not one affecting the vital interests of humanity to a marvelous
+extent?"
+
+"Marvelous, Fillmore! Most marvelous! Hereafter, you can count on me as
+an enthusiastic advocate. I cannot say too much in its favor."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLI.
+
+CO-OPERATIVE ETHICS.
+
+
+"Speaking of wages," said George Gaylord, "did I understand you to say,
+that all of the co-operators at Solaris receive the same pay?"
+
+"Yes, George, equal wages for all classes of workers, is the motto at
+Solaris. Recognizing the solidarity of the interests of society, simple
+justice demands the same rate of pay for each member of the company;
+without regard to sex, or particular qualification."
+
+"It seems to me, Fillmore, that justice would demand that each one
+should be paid according to skill and capacity. I cannot understand, how
+anyone capable of being a foreman, would be content to accept, as a just
+equivalent for his services, a compensation as low as that awarded to
+the least capable worker in the colony."
+
+"I think I shall be able to convince you, George, that a correct view of
+this question, is largely a matter of education. You have, perhaps
+unconsciously, voiced the usual argument against the equity of equality,
+which is made by the champions of the competitive system. Our people
+have learned from experience, that the co-operative farm movement is a
+leveling up process, which purposes to raise the weaker units, to the
+condition of the higher. They have learned, that society is a purely
+co-operative institution. They have learned, that the wants of society,
+create value for the products of labor. Society, then, is labor's
+market. In this market, the wants of the weaker units, are just as
+important, as are those of the stronger. Stimulated by the number and
+variety of these wants, inventive genius has given to us tools and
+machinery, which have increased, at least one hundred fold, the capacity
+of labor to produce. In the creation of tools and machinery, the mental
+acuteness and inventive skill of the weaker unit, often surpasses that
+of the stronger. It follows, then, that each one of the weaker units, is
+justly entitled to an equal share of the advantages which are conferred
+on labor by society, with its market and equipment of tools and
+machinery. These advantages, make the productive work of all classes,
+nearly equal. Let us try to find the real difference, between the daily
+labor products of the strongest and the weakest workers. Let us consider
+present conditions here at Solaris, as an illustration. Let us take one
+hundred dollars, as the value of the product of one day's labor, by an
+average person, plus the advantage of such superior social organization,
+training, tools and equipment, as Solaris can now furnish. On the other
+hand, let us take fifty cents, as the value of one day's labor, by the
+strongest, most capable worker, when isolated from his fellows, and from
+all social organization, with its tools and equipment. Under the
+circumstances, allowing that the strongest could produce twice as much
+as the weakest, we should have twenty-five cents, as the value of the
+daily product of the weakest worker. These sums, compared with one
+hundred dollars, would give us the exact difference between the
+strongest and the weakest, under the favorable co-operative conditions,
+existing at Solaris. A difference, so trifling as to be scarcely worthy
+of consideration, only one-fourth of one per cent. What think you,
+George! Where now is the injustice of equal wages? Remember, when
+justice is done, the mission of charity is finished!"
+
+"Your clear statement of the case, has proved a revelation to me,
+Fillmore! I am quite ready to acknowledge the exact justice, of your
+co-operative system of equal wages. I am profoundly impressed with the
+soundness of your argument, that women and all weaker units in the army
+of labor, are justly entitled to an equal share of the advantages
+conferred on labor, by social organization, and by the education,
+training and equipment, resulting from that organization. This view of
+the question, is a new one to me. It places the whole subject, in quite
+a different light. By the aid of this light, I am beginning to
+understand something of the intricacy and force, of this co-operative
+machine, which we call society; and how much it affects the question of
+labor and wages.
+
+"My experience with co-operative farming here at Solaris, is beginning
+to bear fruit. Under your instruction, friend Flagg, I think I can now
+understand the wide difference, between the competitive and the
+co-operative systems of organized labor. The former, benefits the few at
+the expense of the many. The latter, raises the individual, by
+benefiting the mass. The first, seems to be a constant menace, which
+threatens the peace, welfare and stability of society; clearly making
+for evil. The second, striving for the interests of all, builds up,
+strengthens and purifies the weaker units; unmistakably making for good.
+The results seem to marshal themselves on the side of co-operation, for
+the purpose of demonstrating the truth of its shibboleth, that the
+injury or weakness of one, is the concern of all. In other words, to
+raise the lower strata of society, means a corresponding elevation for
+the upper. The average morality, happiness and prosperity of society, is
+measured by the morality, happiness and prosperity of its weaker units.
+Tell me, Fillmore, does the acceptance and advocacy of this view of the
+relations existing between labor and society, make one a socialist?"
+
+"They surely do, George! They make you a socialist of the most
+progressive type. I am both surprised and delighted, to find how well
+you have learned the lesson of co-operation."
+
+"If the co-operators at Solaris, are socialists, then they must be good
+people. I am perfectly willing to be classed with them. At all events, I
+am a thorough convert to the co-operative system. I can now understand
+the scope and significance of the work; and why it is, that the Solaris
+workers, are so much superior to any farm people I have ever known. I
+begin to perceive that the success of the co-operative farm, means the
+regeneration of society.
+
+"This morning, Fillmore, under the guidance of Miss Houghton, I visited
+the kindergarten, the schools, the club rooms and the theatre. I was
+amazed, to find such a magnificent system of education and amusement, in
+successful operation, for the benefit of a farm village. Indeed! A city
+of fifty thousand people, would be very fortunate, in the possession of
+such a fine one! How did you manage to make it possible?"
+
+"In carrying out the wise plans of Fennimore Fenwick, you behold to-day,
+the result of combined co-operative agriculture and stirpiculture, which
+affords to our people, and to their children, conditions for education
+and amusement, fully equal to anything, money can procure for the
+wealthy. Children born at Solaris, under carefully prepared conditions
+for a perfect motherhood, are endowed with a precious birth-right, far
+superior to anything heretofore known to heirs of wealth. The system is
+being constantly improved. As it now stands, I consider it the crowning
+success of the co-operative movement.
+
+"Speaking of Miss Houghton, George, reminds me of a question! You have
+yet to tell me, the result of your first interview with her. Did she
+seem to blame you so very much, for not answering her mother's letter?"
+
+"Oh! no! She was kindness personified. She hastened to assure me that,
+in the light of subsequent events, she came to understand the whole
+situation. It appears, that after writing the letter in question, her
+mother grew very much better. In this improved state, she lingered for
+some time, and did not die until several weeks after Miss Houghton had
+read to her, the notice of my mother's death, which came to them through
+the columns of an occasional New England newspaper.
+
+"Having answered your question, Fillmore, I will now return to the
+subject of my visit to the schools. The interest manifested by both
+children and teachers is something to be proud of. The amount of general
+information of a practical character, which the pupils have acquired,
+even in the lower classes, is quite surprising. This is especially
+noticeable, in the ready knowledge they display, regarding current
+political events; including the personal history, character and ability,
+of the various political leaders. Is it wise, to devote so much time to
+teaching politics; and to commence this teaching with children so young?
+Do you really consider it so very important?"
+
+"Yes, George, it is a matter of the utmost importance! A republic of
+ignorant people, is a republic only in name; in reality, it is an
+oligarchy. On the contrary, a true republic, is one in which all its
+units or voters, are so educated, that they are familiar with the theory
+and practice of government. They must know that true government is a
+co-operative institution, which must guard and protect with exact
+justice, the interests of all of the governed. They must know, the
+extent and condition of the agricultural, manufacturing, commercial,
+mineral and lumbering resources of the country. They should understand
+diplomatic, domestic and foreign relations. They should know every
+detail, of the educational, financial and political wants of the masses,
+in the domain of each State or Territory. Finally, they must be familiar
+with the character, trustworthiness and ability, of all political
+leaders. Children of the co-operative farm, are educated and trained, in
+a manner that will best fit them to become true citizens of such a
+republic. This is why, a practical, political education, to be
+successful, must become a matter of interest to the children while they
+are young. They will then learn, that a true republic, is a co-operative
+machine, which cannot run smoothly, while one imperfect cog remains to
+retard the action of its wheels. This valuable lesson, they cannot learn
+too soon. What think you, friend Gaylord?"
+
+"I cannot quite agree with you in this matter, Fillmore! I think it
+would be far wiser, while they are so young, to teach these children
+such lessons as will give them the ground work for a sound religious
+faith. Then they will understand the first importance, of being prepared
+to save their own souls. Later, in the closing school years, they could
+be taught your progressive, political scheme, which I think is a
+remarkably good one."
+
+"Stop one moment, George! I see Miss Houghton is coming. She will be
+delighted with an opportunity to answer some of your objections, to the
+co-operative code of ethics, evolved by the people of Solaris."
+
+"You are a welcome visitor, Miss Houghton! You have arrived, just in the
+nick of time! Our mutual friend here, Mr. Gaylord, has been telling me
+of his visit to our schools, under your guidance. While he praises the
+wonderful progress made by the pupils; he seems to think, that we teach
+too much politics and too little religion."
+
+"Pardon me, Miss Houghton!" said George Gaylord, "I assure you, that I
+was not indulging the spirit of fault finding! Allow me to explain! I
+had reached a point in our discussion, where I was about to remark, that
+since Adam's time, the people of the world have been born, heirs to the
+dominancy of total depravity. With this heritage, we are as prone to
+sin, as are the sparks to fly upward. Under such circumstances, it would
+surely be the height of folly, to attempt to overcome this natural
+tendency toward evil, without the aid of the strong arm of the church,
+with its broad mantle of christian faith and saving grace."
+
+"I grant you, Mr. Gaylord, that with your peculiar training, such a
+conclusion would be quite natural."
+
+"Now, Mr. Flagg! I have a word for you! We must make every allowance,
+for Mr. Gaylord's theological education. An education, that has filled
+his mind with somewhat distorted meanings, for the terms, religious
+faith, soul, sin, salvation, religion, total depravity and many others
+of a similar import, which theology has applied to man's spiritual
+welfare. Just at present, the difference between us, is wholly a matter
+of definition. When we have acquired a true meaning for these disputed
+terms, we shall stand harmoniously on a common ground. We shall then be
+ready to accept the higher teachings of the new religion. A religion of
+spiritual evolution and unfoldment, which responds to the progress of
+the twentieth century."
+
+"You are quite right, Miss Houghton! I am very willing to make the
+generous allowance you suggest. I think Mr. Gaylord would be glad to
+hear your views, regarding the practical teachings of the new religion."
+
+"Thank you, Fillmore!" said George Gaylord, "you have voiced a request,
+I was about to make. I trust Miss Houghton, will proceed at once. I will
+promise to be a listener, who is both interested and attentive."
+
+"I will promise one thing, Mr. Gaylord. It is this, before I have
+finished, I shall do my best, to convince you, that in embracing the new
+religion, the people of Solaris have devoted themselves to a system of
+religious teaching, which is far too broad for the limitation of church
+walls. That this new religion, is so practical, and so exacting, that
+its followers, if they are true, are in duty bound to observe it as a
+rule of life, seven days in the week, year in and year out.
+
+"As a primary basis, the new religion teaches, that all human life is
+sacred. That it is the highest expression on this planet, of an
+Omniscient purpose. Conscious life, or the capacity to become conscious
+of anything, is a Deific attribute. All knowledge comes to the mind
+through the avenue of the senses, or from sensations produced by contact
+with existing things in the domain of Nature. The domain of Nature, is
+the domain of the Omniscient! All real knowledge, acquired from this
+domain by right methods, which is in harmony with natural evolution, is
+Truth. Truth, then, is Divine!
+
+"From these broad premises, we may deduce, that to acquire knowledge, or
+to accumulate truth, becomes the highest duty of life, a religious
+activity of the highest order. To be engaged in the intellectual
+process of gaining knowledge, is to be engaged in a spiritual work. The
+intellectual process, is a spiritual process. By the psychologic action
+of the mind, through its sub-conscious functioning, all knowledge coming
+through the senses, first becomes the spiritual possession of the Ego,
+the Soul, the seat of consciousness, before it can be expressed
+materially by the mortal man. Hence, spiritual evolution, is a natural
+growth, a crowning part of physical and intellectual evolution. The
+body, as an associated colony of more or less intelligent cells, is an
+important part of the thinking machine. Body, brain and intellect, in
+their dual existence on the material plane, form an important trinity,
+which enables the Spirit to accumulate knowledge, and also to retain
+that knowledge, after the passing of the physical. To dispute this
+postulate, would be manifestly absurd, as the spiritual man is the
+conscious Ego, the real gleaner and possessor of knowledge. It follows
+then, that to be engaged in any kind of educational work, is to be
+engaged in a religious work of great spiritual importance. That, through
+proper intellectual training, we may obtain spiritual growth, rebuild
+the moral character, exterminate vice, and unfold the graces of virtue,
+purity, honesty and goodness. These are spiritual attributes, which
+embrace all there is in the domain of morals.
+
+"In appealing to the new religion, for a broader, truer definition of
+the term, Soul, we learn that Soul, as a cosmic unit of the larger
+cosmos, is the repository of infinite possibilities: That evolution is
+the law, by which these possibilities are unfolded: That it inherits
+immortality as a birthright, from the Great Over Soul, the source and
+center of all life: That, in fulfilling the law of life, by sojourning
+in the flesh for a brief period, it cannot be lost, or become totally
+depraved; although the body, which is but its earthly expression, may
+become so debased by poverty, selfishness and sin, as to momentarily
+thwart the Divine purpose of life.
+
+"From the same source, and by the same authority, in response to a
+sincere desire for a better definition of the word Sin; we are taught,
+that the object and purpose of the existence of this planet, is the
+evolution and perfection of the human race. Human life, then, is the
+flower and fruit of the planet. As such, it is the direct expression of
+a Divine purpose. At the command of a higher law, this life must at all
+times, be treated as sacred. From this high rock of observation, we
+perceive that all acts, by society or individuals, which tend to
+promote, protect and purify this life, are helpful along lines of
+evolution; therefore, righteous and good. In their doing, these acts
+become the highest expression of a religious duty. On the contrary, all
+acts, by society or individuals, which tend to destroy, injure, poison
+or sully this sacred life, or to bar its ordained progress, are in
+themselves, unholy, wrong and criminal. In commission, these acts become
+the greatest of all sins. The logic of this deduction, is beyond
+dispute; because they are direct attempts to thwart the progressive and
+evolutionary purpose of the planet; therefore, they must be considered
+as sins of the first magnitude.
+
+"Second in magnitude, and akin to these in wickedness, is the sin of
+society against women. A sin so potent for evil, that at the behest of
+selfishness, greed and lust, government, church and society, with one
+accord and without a protest, join in denying to woman an existence of
+financial independence. This denial makes slaves of women, who should
+be noble, pure, self-poised, self-sustaining and absolutely free. But
+the acme of wickedness is reached, when this denial reduces women to
+creatures of merchandise, when every year, it drives unnumbered
+thousands of them to lives of degredation and shame; thus perpetrating
+the crime of the century against unborn generations, by tainting and
+poisoning the fountain of life at its very source. The new religion has
+decreed, that the mothers of a perfected republic, must of a necessity,
+be both pure and free. It purposes to cure this crime, by working
+through the strong arms of an ever-increasing series, of unselfish
+co-operative brotherhoods, where a progressive union of agriculture, and
+stirpiculture, shall provide for and protect both mothers and children;
+at the same time furnishing the ways and means, which offer an
+honorable, useful self-sustaining existence to all woman kind, be they
+wives, mothers, sisters or sweethearts.
+
+"Third in magnitude and closely allied to the first two, is the great
+sin of ignorance. The mother of bigotry and superstitious fear; the
+father of duplicity and craven cowardice! What we know, we fear not. It
+is only the mysterious darkness of the unknown, that is filled with
+terror. To abolish ignorance, is to make the mind master over matter.
+Mind is both the spiritual and the intellectual expression of the soul.
+True culture of the mind, is moral culture. It is only the well grown,
+highly cultured mind, that can reflect the inherent graces of the
+spirit, which mark all noble characters. To the individual, who has
+acquired a knowledge of the law of evolution and environment, is given
+the power to control environmental conditions; by wresting from nature
+the secrets of success, in feeding, clothing, housing, educating and
+elevating humanity. It follows then, that to overcome the sin of
+ignorance, is to banish poverty. To banish poverty, is to banish want.
+To banish want, is to take away the very foundations of the sin of
+selfishness. Selfishness, is the father of a multitude of sins, which
+must perish with it.
+
+"From these premises we must deduce, that all educative work in the
+proper sense, is a religious activity, which makes us better acquainted
+with the relations which exist, between man and his Creator, the Great
+Over Soul. The spiritualizing influence of this intellectual work,
+carries with it the compensation of a great reward. It crowns the
+gleaner, with happiness of the purest type. As knowledge increases, the
+field of knowledge expands, the flood of happiness swells in volume. A
+long busy life on the material plane of existence, is far too short to
+acquire this vast treasure, which is commensurate with the needs of
+progress for an eternity of spiritual existence, to which, this life is
+simply the primary school. With a better understanding of the nature of
+sin, and of the alarming extent of its evil influence over human life;
+the new religion undertakes to bless mankind, by banishing ignorance,
+poverty and crime. To this practical, spiritual work, the people of
+Solaris religiously devote themselves, as being a life-work of the
+noblest order.
+
+"The three principal sins which we have considered, may be justly
+regarded as the parents of all lesser sins. Having given a few brief
+suggestions as to methods of cure, which are offered by the new
+religion; I am now ready, Mr. Gaylord, to take up the doctrine of total
+depravity; which plays such an important part in your theology.
+
+"As the primary step, I will re-state a prior postulate, as follows:
+The spiritual man, is the conscious Ego, the Soul, or a cosmic unit of
+the larger cosmos; an indestructible part of the great life principle.
+As such, it is the repository of infinite possibilities, which are
+destined to be unfolded by the law of progressive evolution. From the
+Great Over Soul, it inherits immortality and indestructibility;
+therefore, it cannot be lost, saved, or become depraved. The mortal body
+is an outer covering, through which it must express itself on the
+material plane of existence. Physical, intellectual and spiritual life,
+are subject to the law of evolution, by which they achieve progression
+and fulfill the purpose of existence.
+
+"To assume, that the people of this planet, are born subject to the
+dominancy of total depravity, is to deny immortality, and the truth of
+these postulates. In denying them, it denies the existence of a dominant
+principle of good, and affirms the existence of a dominant principle of
+evil. It also denies all progress, all moral reform, every noble
+aspiration, every good deed, all evolution, all science and all reason.
+Where then, in the economy of nature, is there room or use for the
+doctrine of total depravity? A doctrine so pernicious, that in the
+mouths of its advocates, it has done more than aught else, to destroy
+the confidence of mortals, in the wisdom and justice of the Divine plan
+of the universe. To even assert its existence, is to question the
+existence of a universe, under the reign of justice, law and order.
+Evidently, the doctrine of total depravity, does not belong to the
+domain of fact. It is equally clear, that it must be a theological
+fiction. A sin of theology against progress, which in the dazzling
+whiteness of the spiritual light of the new religion, must soon fade
+into oblivion.
+
+"Can we teach politics to school children, as a part of our religious
+duties? Is a question we will now consider. The answer, will depend
+largely on the definition, which we give to the word religion. Let us
+try to find a true definition, broad enough to embrace an affirmative
+answer to our question. As a basis, we have human life as the highest
+expression of the planet. With the physical body, as the basis for
+intellectual evolution. With intellectual evolution, as the basis for
+spiritual evolution. Hence, we have as a conclusion, that the spiritual
+development and unfoldment of the race, up to a point where it can
+accept the truth of immortality, is the logical purpose to be
+accomplished by all religions. Reasoning from these premises, it would
+seem clear, that the practical value of any religion, must be measured
+by its ability to teach the people how to help themselves; how to master
+the great problem of physical life, by attaining perfection in the arts
+of feeding, clothing, housing, educating and spiritualizing the race.
+If, in connection with these solid foundations for a natural religion,
+we add the important fact, that this is a republic, in which the wish of
+the majority, should become the law of the mass; we shall discover that
+politics become the natural channel, through which the wishes of the
+majority are expressed; that corrupt politics, result in bad government;
+that pure politics, insure good government; that a wise, just
+government, is the greatest political benefit which can be conferred on
+the people governed. United, these conclusions give an affirmative
+answer to our question. They also tell us why, the new religion, the
+mouth-piece of inspiration, reason, science, evolution and progress,
+should proclaim it a religious duty, to teach our children,--embryo
+citizens of the republic--every practical detail of pure politics.
+
+"What think you, Mr. Gaylord? Have your objections, been satisfactorily
+answered? Can we agree to accept new definitions, for the disputed
+religious terms, which we have been discussing?"
+
+"I am satisfied, Miss Houghton, that I have been quite too hasty in my
+conclusions! You have convinced me of the importance of teaching pure
+politics to children, as a part of their religious training. With regard
+to other religious questions, you have answered my objections in a most
+masterly manner! The practical religion, which you have so beautifully
+outlined and so clearly defined, seems worthy of all the eloquence which
+you have bestowed upon it. That dreadful doctrine of total depravity,
+which you have so effectually demolished, has always been a repulsive
+one to me! For years, it has been a tormenting theological thorn in my
+side! I could never quite reconcile its existence, with the overruling
+dominion of an all-wise Creator; the very embodiment of Infinite
+goodness. I may as well say frankly, that I have often tried to find
+some good reason for denying it! Now, I have found one, that will
+satisfy my conscience. With the vexing doctrine of total depravity
+eliminated from the religious problem, a definition for the term,
+practical religion, becomes much more simple. A new light is thrown on
+the whole subject. Just at present, under the influence of this light, I
+am inclined to think, that your statements and your premises, are all
+true. Granting this, I will cheerfully admit, that the people of
+Solaris, are nobly living practical religious lives. I am very much
+interested in the wonderful claims of this new religion. I trust, that
+after some weeks of careful examination, I may be able to accept them
+without one single reservation. After that, I venture to promise, that
+we shall be able to agree on a satisfactory definition, for all disputed
+religious terms."
+
+"Bravo! George! Now, you are talking more like your old self, more like
+a reasonable man. You are making great progress, in mastering the
+underlying principles and practical work of the co-operative movement! I
+think, Miss Houghton, that you ought to join in offering
+congratulations. Will you not?"
+
+"Yes, Mr. Flagg! I shall be glad to do so! First, I want to compliment
+Mr. Gaylord, on his excellence as a listener! Then again, I wish to
+thank him, for his kindly summing up, of the impressions, which came to
+him from my rather long sermon on practical religion.
+
+"Now gentlemen, you must excuse me! I have an engagement, which demands
+my immediate presence at the kindergarten."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLII.
+
+RURAL LIFE UNDER THE REIGN OF CO-OPERATION.
+
+
+"I wish, Fillmore," said George Gaylord, "to question your statement, as
+to the ability of the co-operative movement, to check the rush from
+country to city life. The tide of the movement is a strong one, that has
+been constantly increasing in volume, for the past twenty years. I fear
+that even the popular co-operative movement, will fail to turn the
+flood."
+
+"The thing is sure to be accomplished, George! But, to understand the
+workings of the underlying force, which shall make this change possible,
+we must first study the units of rural society. Of course, the financial
+basis of these units, must be supported by agriculture. Agriculture is,
+and must continue to be the main support of all rural populations. Fifty
+years ago, agriculture as a whole, comprised a vast collection of small
+farms and farmers. Then, the small farmer and his family, as the stable
+unit of suburban society, was financially and practically independent.
+Questions of over-production of food products, rise or fall in the price
+of exchange, panic in the money market, or an adverse balance of trade,
+disturbed them not.
+
+"Under the spur of necessity, and as a part of the legitimate farm work,
+the farmer and his family, in a crude way, practiced many of the
+industrial arts, such as leather working, harness making, boot and shoe
+making, cloth making, the carding, spinning and weaving of wool; the
+preparation, spinning and weaving of flax or linen fabrics; the
+manufacture of many farm implements, brooms, baskets, harrows, sleds and
+carts; tailoring, making all kinds of underwear, hosiery, gloves and
+mittens; linen furnishings, for table and bed, together with many other
+articles of household use. Often, the forge and the anvil, with tools
+for rough iron working, were added to the equipment of the farm. In
+those days, farming required a knowledge of the use of tools; the
+square, the level, the plumb-bob; the hammer, the saw and the plane;
+were as necessary to the farmer, as they were to the carpenter.
+
+"If we carefully study the significance of these things, we shall soon
+discover, that in reality those farms were practically, combined
+agricultural and manufacturing institutions, which were self-supporting
+and self-sustaining to such an extent, that farm people were the most
+independent on the face of the globe. As such, these small farm centers
+were potent factors, in swiftly advancing the permanent wealth and
+civilization of rural society. Born and trained in this practical school
+of life; financially unshackled, therefore politically free; our farmers
+of fifty years ago, developed a spirit of sturdy independence, a
+patriotic devotion, a steadfastness of purpose, a self-confidence, and a
+power of the initiative, which made them the pride and the bulwark of
+the nation. They were the well trained, trustworthy citizens, of a true
+republic.
+
+"Evolutionary progress, moves forward by waves. The depression between
+the crest of the last and the summit of the succeeding wave, represents
+the transition, from one step of progress to the next higher. Therefore,
+periods of depression, need not cause alarm, they are in reality
+prophecies of progress. Let us apply this evolutionary law to
+agriculture and its people, as being in the transition stage, during the
+past forty years.
+
+"Since the beginning of the last half of the nineteenth century, the
+separation between agriculture and manufacture has been going forward,
+the gulf between them becoming wider and more absolute, with each
+succeeding year. Invention, improved machinery, combinations of capital,
+the sub-division of the various trades into specialties, leaving the
+worker, master of none; all have served to develop the entire system of
+manufacturing industries, to a degree out of all harmony with the tardy
+progress made by agriculture. The mining and manufacturing craze, has
+swallowed up all other interests. Like a whirlwind, it has spread over
+the land, drawing into the ranks of its toilers hosts of agricultural
+workers; thus swelling the army, producing manufactured articles, and
+correspondingly reducing the home market for such things.
+
+"These conditions have naturally produced a congested market. Logically,
+there has followed, periods of stagnation, labor riots on account of
+reduced wages, periods of enforced idleness, and panics in the money
+market; all culminating in a loud demand for relief from the burden of
+over-production, by securing control of foreign markets. So completely
+has the manufacturing craze dominated the commercial and political
+economy of the republic, that both leaders and people are blind to the
+real cause of the calamity. An aggressive and progressive minority begin
+to realize, that the laborer and the farmer are no longer free, that
+they are the slaves of capital with its factories and machines, or of
+railroad combines, which control all lines of transportation. But no one
+sufficiently understands the situation, to be able to answer why.
+
+"Now let us study the history of agriculture, during the past forty
+years. This trying period of transition, has been marked by many
+changes. The small farm family, shorn of its ability to manufacture,
+even in a crude way; for shoes, clothing, bedding and table linen, must
+patronize factories located in distant cities. In order to pay for these
+things, much farm produce must be shipped to remote markets. In both
+cases, such heavy freights, commissions and profits, are paid to lines
+of transportation, middle men and handlers, that at the end of the
+year, the farmer's net proceeds are reduced to zero, or at least very
+close to that point. If the farmer be in debt, he finds himself unable
+to pay the interest on the indebtedness. If the farm represents much
+invested capital, the net income of the farm becomes too meagre to pay
+even a moderate rate of interest on its cost value; therefore its
+selling value must shrink to the level of its reduced income. In this
+way a large share of the available assets of the small farmer, are swept
+away. The savings of years, are swallowed up and lost. Savings, that in
+the aggregate, amount to many millions of dollars. What has become of
+these values? They have been absorbed by the cities and the railroad
+monopolies, whose servants the cities are.
+
+"Four decades of this process, has robbed the farm-center, as a unit of
+rural society, of its former wealth, independence and power. Rural
+society as a whole, is no stronger than its weakest unit. This is why
+agricultural districts are depopulated, while cities are over crowded.
+These results are the work of the competitive system, with its wasteful,
+wicked methods of distribution and exchange, which so widely separates
+the farm and the factory, the farmer and the artisan, the food and the
+consumer.
+
+"From another point of view, we may discover that inventive genius, has
+added a long list of labor-saving machinery, to the equipment of the
+farm. Since wheat growing, has become the leading crop, this expensive
+machinery must be included in the outfit of every successful farm. The
+burden of this expense, has proved too great for the capacity of the
+small farm. It has encumbered thousands of them with an indebtedness so
+hopeless, that its annual interest swallows up the income of the farm.
+From these causes, a crisis in the affairs of agriculture has arisen,
+which has demanded larger farms, more capital, more brain force and more
+systematic, better organized, co-operative labor. Hence, the evolution
+of the bonanza farm; with which the small farm can no longer compete.
+Notwithstanding its many wasteful methods, the bonanza farm has been a
+step in the right direction. It has taught our agricultural people a
+valuable lesson, as to what may be accomplished by the combined
+co-operation of brains, labor and capital. It has demonstrated the
+necessity for the evolution of the co-operative farm. It has prepared
+the way for it.
+
+"With the advent of the co-operative farm, will come the beginning of a
+new agricultural era. The co-operative farm village, with its well
+organized, allied industries, will again unite agriculture with
+manufacture. The village will represent the new unit of rural society.
+This unit will be free, independent and self-sustaining. The occupation
+of farming, will be lifted into a new realm. It will become the
+occupation of the noble, the cultured and the progressive. The people of
+these farm centers, will form the warp and woof of agricultural society,
+organized as a whole. The presence of organized society, largely adds to
+the value of all lands and to the value of agricultural and manufactured
+products.
+
+"The brilliant author of 'Volney's Ruins,' well understood the force of
+this principle as applied to increasing agricultural wealth, and at the
+same time largely adding to the general prosperity of the State. In an
+essay published in 1790, Volney lays down the following principles: 'The
+force of a State is in proportion to its population; population is in
+proportion to plenty; plenty is in proportion to tillage; and tillage,
+to personal and immediate interest, that is to the spirit of property.
+Whence it follows, that the nearer the cultivator approaches the passive
+condition of a mercenary, the less industry and activity are to be
+expected from him; and, on the other hand, the nearer he is to the
+condition of a free and entire proprietor, the more extension he gives
+to his own forces, to the produce of his lands, and to the general
+prosperity of the State.'
+
+"Each co-operative farm, will become a new center of permanent wealth; a
+new center of social progress; of organized labor; of distribution and
+exchange. These new centers, by again bringing together the food and the
+consumer, will save millions for themselves, which under the competitive
+system, were thrown away in freights and commissions. As these farm
+centers continue to increase, they may stretch away in one unbroken
+chain, perhaps five hundred miles in length. Each link in the chain,
+will be a five or ten-mile boulevard. Altogether, forming one continuous
+system of broad, free highways, the finest the world ever saw! Aided by
+trains of horseless carriages, there will be developed between the
+centers along this highway, a new system of transportation,
+distribution, commerce and exchange. With the establishment of each new
+system, the co-operative movement will gain an added impetus. The
+centers of exchange, distribution and commerce, located in great cities,
+will gradually lose their dominancy. The long lines of monopolized
+railroads, connecting these cities, will as surely lose a large
+proportion of their traffic. The magnetic wealth and bustle of the great
+city, will lose its attractive power. As a consequence, and by the
+action of a natural law, the tide of wealth and population, will flow
+back to the country; with its meadows and fields, its mountains and
+streams, its sunshine, blue skies, pure air and wholesome, enjoyable
+village life. Amid such surroundings, upright and just, fearless and
+free, the model citizen of a true republic, may find a natural home."
+
+"Pardon me, Fillmore, for the interruption! I freely concede the
+desirability of the results, which you have so glowingly pictured.
+Nevertheless, I cannot quite agree with you, about the existence of a
+law, through which the tide of wealth and population will again flow
+towards the country. I am inclined to think, that facts and figures are
+against such a result. The statistics of the census of 1890, indicate
+that about one-third of the population, and over seventy-five per cent
+of the wealth of the nation, were then located in the cities. A little
+later, able thinkers and writers of the Josiah Strong type, proclaimed,
+that by the middle of the twentieth century, this would be a nation of
+cities, with less than ten per cent of its wealth and population
+remaining rural. As startling as these predictions are, I very much
+fear, that the logic of events favor their fulfillment!"
+
+"If you will give me a little more time George, I think I shall be able
+to show you where these writers erred, in reasoning from wrong premises.
+They have judged the trend of events and the probable results that are
+to follow, from the standpoint of the competitive system. A system,
+which they have accepted without question as a permanent one, never to
+be replaced by another. This was the fatal error, which has robbed their
+conclusions of all value.
+
+"In discussing the status of our great cities, these writers all agree,
+that they are a constant menace to the nation; centers of political
+corruption, which are in every way antagonistic to the letter and spirit
+of a republican form of government; aggregations of the most dangerous
+elements of society, which are incapable of self-government. These
+admissions have a wonderful significance. Let us examine them.
+
+"The question of society, becomes a potent factor in the solution of
+this problem. Society, like a great leviathan, covers the face of our
+country. Representing the aggregate of life, it affects all lives. As
+the social side of the body politic, it has the power to strangle or to
+nourish, every interest which is dear to those lives. Dominant society,
+is the support and inspiration of government. The excellence of any
+government, may be measured by the excellence of the society upon which
+that government is based. Under the standard of a republic, society may
+be divided into two classes; the true and the false. Reasoning from
+these premises, we may conclude, that in order to have a true republic,
+we must first evolve a true society.
+
+"The society representing the competitive system, has its centers or
+units in our great cities. Its votaries, are worshippers of wealth. They
+are importers of foreign fashions, and foreign ideas of government. They
+believe in caste. They detest equality. They have no love and very
+little respect for the equal rights guaranteed by the Constitution. They
+despise honest labor. They consider it menial, as a badge of servitude.
+They believe that wealth is a power which can raise the wealthy few to
+the dominancy of a privileged class. They believe that as members of
+this class, they can treat all other classes as servitors and
+dependents, who may be hired to do anything for money. They view with
+complacency, the crowded populations of our great cities. The greater
+and more dense the mass of people, the larger, more dependent and more
+obsequious the class of servitors. They are naturally, more or less in
+sympathy with monarchial and despotic institutions. They believe that
+the rulers, judges and law-makers, should come from the ranks of the
+privileged class. They are out of harmony with the republic, because it
+is the true form of a co-operative government. Co-operation, they hate,
+it smacks of equality! They are devoted to the competitive system. They
+recognize its power to maintain a perpetual warfare among competitors,
+which shall forever keep the main host in such abject poverty, that they
+willingly become slaves to the wealthy. Having lost their independence,
+the votes of these competitors are at the command of their financial
+masters. Than this, nothing could be more harmful to the welfare of a
+true republic.
+
+"This form of urban society, is the flower of the competitive system.
+The tendency of this society is to so engender selfishness, and to so
+destroy patriotism, that a multi-millionaire of the William Waldorf
+Astor type, deliberately achieves the acme of shame, by renouncing his
+allegiance to a country to which he owes everything. He expatriates
+himself, and flies to the refuge of a monarchy, to escape the honest
+burden of a just taxation. A taxation based on an assessment of less
+than one-third the rate, which is applied to the average farmer of the
+republic. One example of such ignominy, ought to teach every patriot,
+that the true republic must be built on the solid foundation of a
+society and industrial system, which represents justice and equality.
+
+"Let us now question the co-operative movement, with the purpose of
+ascertaining its fitness to become the base of a new society, and also
+the proper foundation for a true republic. In a society growing out of
+the co-operative system, as our rural and agricultural societies may now
+do. We find the conditions are reversed. Labor, is the badge of
+respectability. It is the title to an honorable independence. In such a
+society, both men and women are free. All are co-operators, none are
+servitors. No beggars! No caste! The units of a co-operative society,
+are sound and healthy to the core. Co-operation, insures
+self-employment. Self-employment brings freedom, ambition, independence,
+self-respect, leisure and education; with all the comforts and
+refinements of life. With these insured, the co-operator cannot be
+bought or corrupted by wealth. Each co-operator becomes a citizen, who
+without fear and without restraint, may speak, write and vote, in
+accordance with the highest dictates of conscience. A healthful degree
+of honorable, self-sustaining labor for all, is the key-note of this
+social organization. Men and women are placed on the same plane of
+equality, financially, socially and industrially. For woman, this is a
+matter of the utmost importance.
+
+"Productive co-operative labor, crowns woman with a self-supporting,
+self-respecting independence, which emphasizes her freedom from every
+form of bondage. In this, we have a perfect demonstration of the power
+of labor to bless humanity. Progressive life and invigorating labor, go
+hand in hand. One is the complement of the other. Labor as naturally
+promotes grace, strength, virtue and long life; as idleness breeds
+helplessness, vice, disease and extinction. Here we discover the wisdom,
+and the universal application of nature's law of labor. This law
+demands, that women who wish to become mothers of a dominant race, and
+who desire to secure perpetuity and progress for that race, must take an
+active part in some useful, productive labor. If we consider the
+significance of this demand, we shall perceive, that any form of social
+or industrial organization which denies this right to woman, or which
+takes from her the opportunity, the necessity, or the desire to labor,
+becomes her worst enemy, a foe to humanity, that is conspiring to reduce
+her to the degredation of a helpless dependent, a mere parasite. In her
+declaration, that 'The human female parasite, is the most deadly microbe
+which can make its appearance on the surface of any social organism;'
+Olive Schreiner has summed up in one sentence, the grave danger from
+this source which threatens the race.
+
+"The combined and marvelous effects of the co-operative system and
+society on the woman question, rightfully places that industrial and
+social system far above all others, in the choice of a secure basis for
+the foundation of a true republic. In fact, George! After carefully
+considering the bearings of the questions involved, I feel sure that you
+will heartily agree with me in the assertion, that co-operative society,
+is the very embodiment of even handed justice, in which the rights of
+all are considered. Furthermore, you will be willing to admit, that it
+teaches the value of labor, and how to discover its uses and abuses. In
+eliminating its abuses, it will appear, that true progress, is to so
+improve and increase the ease and attractiveness of all kinds of labor,
+that they can no longer be classed as toil, or even disagreeable tasks.
+This then, is the legitimate field of inventive genius. Success in this
+field is assured, because it is in harmony with all laws of progress.
+Every hardship, every difficulty and every danger, which is eliminated
+from physical labor, increases in the same proportion, the opportunity
+and the demand for mental labor. This demonstrates the action of
+nature's law of compensation, which in elevating the character of labor,
+maintains its quantity."
+
+"Yes Fillmore, I am convinced! I am willing to admit the truth of the
+assertions, which you have made concerning co-operative society, as the
+result of the co-operative movement. No doubt, they are destined in the
+near future to supersede the competitive system and the city society
+which grew out of it. As I view the situation now, that time cannot come
+too quickly! Yet, there is one point which still puzzles me. It is in
+connection with the rapid improvement of labor saving agricultural
+machinery, which, as Josiah Strong says, will soon enable a few farmers
+to do all the farm work, forcing all other agriculturalists to seek
+employment in manufacturing cities. How can you answer that argument,
+from the co-operative standpoint?"
+
+"That is a pertinent question George, to which co-operation can furnish
+many conclusive answers. Let us consider the significance, and the
+conclusiveness, of some of the following:
+
+"Under the co-operative system, every new labor-saving machine applied
+to agriculture, means just so much added wealth for the farm colony. It
+affords that much additional income, for active workers; so much more
+money to swell the annuity fund, for the retired members; so much more
+cash capital, for the sinking fund, with which to purchase, and to
+retain the permanent control, of an ever-increasing series of
+co-operative farms, for the lasting benefit of their people. With
+co-operative genius to invent, and an abundance of capital with which to
+buy, the advent of any conceivable quantity of improved machinery on the
+co-operative farm, would only serve to increase the wealth, leisure and
+independence of the co-operators.
+
+"Such well-conditioned people could not, under any circumstances, be
+forced to leave homes of luxury and refinement in the country, to become
+the working slaves of a manufacturing syndicate in the city. Indeed! Why
+should they? Why should these co-operators, or any one with the
+opportunity to become such, go to the city to accept an insufficient and
+uncertain wage; to be compelled to pay five prices for food, when a
+better and more abundant supply, could be raised on lands of their own,
+with less than one-half the exertion? Having good homes of their own,
+why should these people pay exorbitant rents to owners of tenement
+houses, for the poor privilege of living in stuffy rooms, choked with
+smoke and filth, and surrounded by the clatter, the strife, the poverty
+and the soul-wearing competition of the great city.
+
+"Why should they rob their children of health and happiness, by
+depriving them of a natural birthright, healthful exercise, free access
+to the pure air, the bright sunshine, the blue sky and the unnumbered
+charms of country life, with its fascination of ever changing landscape,
+a picturesque mingling of verdure clad hills, green meadows, shady
+forests, clear lakes and bold mountains? Why should these children be
+compelled to live a cramped, unnatural life, confined to the narrow
+streets, poisoned both mentally and physically, by the foul air,
+disease, corruption, crime and misery of the densely populated city? Why
+should agriculturists, who are independent co-operative owners of the
+soil, humiliate themselves by joining the vast army of struggling
+competitors, who throng the already overcrowded labor market in our
+great cities? Why should they be eager to become the financial and
+political slaves of the leaders of the competitive system; the social
+autocrats, who form the society of the 'Four Hundred?'"
+
+"Can a Josiah Strong answer these questions? No! Why not? Because, in
+blindly reasoning and writing from the competitive standpoint, he has
+quite overlooked the fact that agriculture is the base of all wealth. He
+has forgotten, that as a class, agricultural people who own the farming
+lands of the country, hold the key to the situation. Made conscious of
+their strength by co-operation, they are the most independent people
+living. They are in a position to dictate terms to all other classes.
+They cannot be forced to do anything, which they do not wish to do. In
+arriving at his conclusions, it seems quite probable that Josiah Strong
+has made the serious mistake of accepting as true, a very prevalent
+idea, that in due course of business, (competitive business) all lands
+everywhere, would belong to the city capitalist; therefore, that all
+farmers would then be tenants at will, who could be turned off the land
+at the caprice of the owner. In this fatal mistake, we discover the
+error which has vitiated all premises from which he has been reasoning.
+
+"Thanks to the forceful lessons, taught by Henry George, to which our
+agricultural people have given two decades of careful study. They have
+learned, that free access to land, is absolutely necessary to a natural
+enjoyment of life. They have learned, that for this reason, those who
+own land are masters of those who do not. With a sturdy independence
+which should characterize all citizens of a true republic, they have an
+intense antipathy towards all forms of slavery. Determined to remain
+free; they have redoubled their efforts to possess, and to retain
+permanent control of lands, sufficient for themselves and their
+children. In this work, they have discovered that co-operation leads to
+perfect success.
+
+"In answering other arguments advanced to show why the city should
+dominate the country, and therefore absorb its population; the question
+of rent plays an important part. It should be studied carefully. The law
+of rent, is an enigma to the poorer classes, upon whose necks its yoke
+presses as a grievous burden. They sweat and groan under the burden, but
+can discover no way of escape. They must be educated. They must know the
+cause, before they can learn to avoid the effect.
+
+"Rent, is a legal harness which enables the capitalist who owns houses
+and lands, to bind needy people to do his work. Through the exactions of
+rent, he can compel these people who can least afford to do it, to pay
+his taxes, his interest on capital invested, his living expenses, his
+traveling expenses, his insurance and such wide margins of profit, as
+necessity, opportunity and favorable location, may allow him to take.
+Rent values, like land values and market values, are exponents of social
+organization. Human lives, enter into the equation of these values. The
+absence of people diminishes these values, the presence of people
+increases them. For this reason, rents are highest in great cities,
+lowest in the sparsely settled country, touching zero on lands occupied
+by nomads. Land values, are affected in the same way. This will give us
+a clue, to the transitory character of wealth composed of values. It
+will give us another reason, for the shrinkage in value of farm lands,
+and the increased wealth of cities; which follows the migration of
+people from country to city.
+
+"We may now consider another important factor, which affects rent values
+in great cities. It is the spur of a sharp want, of the urgent necessity
+of helplessness, which must drive and control the actions of a large
+majority of the inhabitants. The presence of these elements is
+necessary, in order to create the highest markets for rents. The larger
+the throng and the keener the necessities of the crowd of bidders
+competing, the higher the prices they will pay for rent. Under the reign
+of the competitive system, this is a conclusive demonstration of the
+truth of the saying, 'That the necessities of the poor, are the
+opportunities of the rich.' Is anything further needed, to prove that
+the competitive system is the essence of a cruel barbarism, which blots
+the civilization and shames the humanity of the republic? Why not change
+it for the co-operative system?
+
+"Under the progressive and beneficent reign of co-operation, there would
+be homes for the homeless, land for the landless, work for the
+unemployed and independence for all. This would mean, a total absence of
+want; that imperative spur, which is so necessary to the life of
+competition.
+
+"Transportation and taxation, are two factors yet unnoticed, which
+materially affect rent values in great cities.
+
+"Taking up the question of transportation; we soon discover its
+importance. The great manufacturing city, is the center of a complete
+network of railroads. The inhabitants of the city, are at the mercy of
+these railroads. Nominally, they are supposed to be competing lines. As
+a matter of fact, by means of traffic association, they become one huge,
+consolidated monopoly. A monopoly so dangerous, so powerful, so
+unscrupulous, and so voracious, that it does not hesitate in fixing and
+maintaining rates so exorbitant, as to be actually prohibitory, at least
+so far as two-thirds of the city dwellers are concerned. Meanwhile the
+monopoly arbitrarily depresses rents and land values in the country,
+while it increases them in the city.
+
+"Let me give you an illustration of the methods, by which these results
+are accomplished. Take if you please, the case of an average city,
+factory-worker; receiving an average wage of one dollar and fifty cents
+per day. On this wage, he has a family to support. In the country,
+thirty miles away, he can have a comfortable house, with a nice large
+garden, for the moderate rent of five dollars per month. A most
+desirable home! But, here comes the opportunity for the railroad! A ten
+cent fare each way, six days in the week, would pay the railroad a
+handsome profit. But, a handsome profit does not satisfy a monopoly! The
+handsome profit must be doubled six times, before it will consent to
+serve the public! As a result, this workman, not having the ready cash
+with which to purchase a monthly commutation ticket, must pay to the
+monopoly, at its lowest rate (two cents per mile) the gross amount of
+one dollar and twenty cents per day for transportation. Subtract this
+sum from the workman's daily wage; there will remain the scant trifle of
+thirty cents, with which to pay bills for food, fuel, clothing,
+medicine and other family expenses. Utterly impossible! Even if the
+owner of the country house and lot, should consent to reduce its price
+and its rent one-half, the workman would still be prohibited by the
+railroad, from taking advantage of the reduction. He would gladly pay
+the ten cent fare, for then he would be able to pay ten dollars per
+month rent, for the luxury of occupying such a desirable country home.
+This would be a blessing to all interested parties; still, it cannot be,
+because the monopoly says no! Being a monopoly under the protection of
+the competitive system, its dictates may not be questioned.
+
+"Although, the case cited, may be duplicated a thousand times, every day
+in the week, in every large city of the republic; yet, everywhere, on
+all possible occasions, the common sense of the people is outraged, and
+their ears offended, by the loud shouts of the competitive leaders, who
+praise without stint the great usefulness of the monopolistic trust.
+Solemn as owls, with an air of great learning, they assure the people
+that these beneficent trusts, are the natural outgrowth of high-grade
+business methods, which must be let alone. Do the poor people, the
+farmers, the country land owners, and the working men, join in these
+shoutings? Obviously and most assuredly, they do not!
+
+"Let us now follow our factory workman back to the city, for the purpose
+of noting the effect of this monopolized transportation, on city rents.
+Baffled in his desire to live in the country, he seeks to make the best
+of a bad situation. As a consequence, he is obliged to pay to the owner
+of some tenement house, a rental of fifteen dollars per month for three
+small rooms; poorly ventilated, unfurnished and unheated. These rooms
+are so undesirable on account of difficult access, bad location,
+unsavory smells, and the immediate presence of other tenants in the
+house, who are quarrelsome, drunken, filthy and generally disreputable;
+that but for the prohibitory tariff maintained by the railroads they
+would remain unoccupied, even if the rent should be reduced to seven
+dollars and fifty cents per month. However, poor workmen receiving scant
+wages, may not expect to be choosers. They with their wives and
+children, must ever bravely strive to adjust themselves to their
+environments, which more often than otherwise, prove cruelly bitter and
+oppressive.
+
+"In the case of our artisan, who is a brave, industrious, hopeful
+fellow; after paying his rent, he will have left from his monthly wages,
+the small sum of twenty-one dollars. Providing of course, that
+throughout the month, he has been so fortunate as to remain well and to
+lose no time. With this amount, (seventy cents per day) he must manage
+as best he can, under such adverse circumstances, to feed, warm, clothe,
+shoe, and protect his family. With such a meagre sum to supply so many
+wants, it is impossible for him, even under the most favorable
+circumstances, to make petty savings with which to meet emergencies.
+When the misfortune of sickness overtakes him, the situation becomes
+appalling!
+
+"From this illustration, we may judge how much the city is indebted to
+the railroad monopoly for its high rents. To great cities, high rent is
+a matter of the utmost importance. Take all rent advantages from them,
+and the entire list of their manufacturing industries, could be carried
+on in country villages with equal profit. It is quite evident then,
+that these cities are alive to the fact that rent is a measure of the
+value of locations."
+
+"Before going farther, Fillmore, allow me to inquire! Why could not
+these working men and their families, who are confined to the city by
+the high rates of the railroad monopoly, find cheap country homes near
+the city; say within a radius of from five to ten miles?"
+
+"Thank you George, for such an opportune question! Its answer leads
+directly to a discussion of the question of taxation.
+
+"A land monopoly, is more to be feared, more harmful to the poor and
+more disastrous to the interests of the general public, than any other
+kind. The worst form of land monopoly, may be found in full force, along
+the outskirts of large cities. These monopolies are made possible, by
+the unjust application of a faulty system of taxation.
+
+"As a preliminary step, a hungry host of individual capitalists and land
+syndicates, proceed to purchase large tracts of adjacent lands at farm
+prices. These lands are then sub-divided into villa sites, and into a
+variety of sizes of town lots. Prices are placed on these lots, which
+would about equal the value of the ground, when in course of time, at
+the edge of the city, they should be covered by dwellings or business
+houses. This accomplished, the holders like cormorants, sit and wait for
+the growth of the city and the efforts and capital of other people, to
+so increase the value of their holdings, that they can realize their
+prices and take their profits. These periods of waiting, may cover a
+long time, often, from one to twenty years. Meanwhile, these monopolized
+lands are kept out of use, because on account of high price, they cannot
+be used for agricultural purposes.
+
+"Why can these land monopolists afford to wait so long? Because an
+inequitable system of taxation, discriminates in their favor; offering
+aid and encouragement for them to do so. Without this aid, it would be
+impossible to keep these lands out of use.
+
+"How can this happen? In the first place, these sub-divided lands, as a
+whole in large tracts, are assessed at the rural rates applied to unused
+and unoccupied lands. These assessed values, may be so low, as to be
+less than one per cent of the asking price of the lots. As time passes,
+they are liable to be slowly increased. Under such a discriminating
+system of assessment, the taxes that may be collected, are merely
+nominal. This unequal system of taxation, is applied, in a proportionate
+degree, to all unoccupied lands inside the city limits, which are held
+out of use by the land speculators.
+
+"How does this state of affairs affect city rents, and at the same time,
+assist in preventing the poorer classes from enjoying the advantage of
+country homes? First, it establishes a broad zone of monopolized land
+around the city. This zone continues to increase in width with the
+growth of the city. Scattered through this zone, are many tracts of
+farming lands in active use. For this reason, they have to bear an extra
+burden of taxes, in order to equalize the low rates on such large tracts
+of idle land. These heavy taxes are patiently borne by the resident
+farmers, with the hope of reimbursement in the near future, by being
+able to sell their farms for extraordinary prices. In this way, abnormal
+prices become firmly established throughout the zone; which like some
+great barrier most effectively confines the working man and his family,
+to the narrow limits of a city tenement, with its high rents.
+
+"If a builder with some idle capital, should wish to erect a
+considerable number of modest cottages, within the limits of this
+monopolized zone; with the purpose of renting them to working men; he
+would find it impossible, or at least impracticable to do so. Why?
+Because he would have to pay almost city prices for the ground; then,
+having covered the lots with houses, he would be obliged to pay a heavy
+penalty for this outlay of capital, by the grievous burden of taxation,
+which would fall upon him. Houses built under these circumstances, could
+not be let at a rent low enough to be within the means of the working
+man.
+
+"The number of people who are confined to city life by the causes named,
+is very large. Just how large, I have no means of ascertaining.
+Families, who are subsisting on incomes of ten dollars per week and
+less, furnish a large proportion of this number.
+
+"We have seen that the disastrous crowding, the alarming density of our
+large city populations, is mainly due to two causes. High
+transportation, caused by the railroad combine; and an outrageous land
+monopoly, made possible by a bad system of taxation. We have seen, that
+this dense mass of needy humanity, constantly creates such a fierce
+competition, that rents must grow higher and wages must grow lower. We
+have seen, that the causes named, are steadily diminishing the wealth of
+rural sections, by transferring it to the great city. We have seen that
+this whole movement, which tends to transform the great majority of the
+independent citizens of a republic, into the financial slaves of an
+oligarchy, is the natural outgrowth of the competitive system. Taught by
+history, we know, that as the oligarchy rises and reigns, the republic
+dies.
+
+"Knowing the causes which have produced these conditions, we are
+prepared to discover, and to apply the most efficient remedies. It is
+only by associated effort, that rural populations can successfully
+oppose the concentration of wealth in cities. The well organized mass,
+becomes a great power. The new century demands a new industrial
+organization. The co-operative system, answers the demand. It is in
+harmony with the idea, that life is the most precious of all things.
+Therefore, it recognizes that opportunity to labor, and to enjoy the
+fruits of that labor, is the highest privilege of life. Under the reign
+of co-operation, this is insured. United in congenial co-operative
+associations, farming and working people in the country, reinforced by
+large numbers of recruits from cities, may build up for themselves, new
+centers of combined industries, society, wealth, distribution, exchange,
+education, amusement and insurance; which will place them in the ranks
+of the self-employed, who are financially and politically free. By
+growth and expansion, these centers will become the units of a vast
+co-operative system, which must soon wholly displace the competitive.
+
+"The inspiring motive of this co-operative system, will be the elevation
+and perfection of human lives. To this end will tend the invention of
+every labor-saving machine; increasing the product and shortening the
+hours of labor. With the physical man thus properly nourished and
+developed; the intellectual and spiritual man, will for the first time
+in history, have the necessary conditions in which to expand, blossom
+and bear fruit. Under such circumstances, life in the country will be
+both altruistic and idealistic. By comparison, life in cities will
+become a hardship which few will care to choose. The few, it may be
+taken for granted, will be so bound to the wheels of Mammon that they
+cannot get away.
+
+"The larger independence and better education of the co-operative
+majority of voters, will soon enable them to find a relief for the
+imprisoned populations of cities, which are now confined by the pressure
+of land monopolies and railroad combines. They will see to it, that
+these railroads become the property of the government; well knowing that
+they can never be made to serve the public honestly, until the public
+owns them. As for the land monopolists, they will find their holdings so
+burdened with taxes, that they can no longer keep them out of use. The
+erection of fine buildings will be encouraged. Costly mansions,
+dwellings, or factories, will not increase the tax. With these barriers
+removed, the densely packed populations will quickly expand. They will
+fly from center to circumference of the city. Later, they will be
+attracted to the country village, where more congenial homes and
+employments await them. Then educated and emancipated, they will no
+longer pay rent.
+
+"We have seen that the economics of society vitally affect the status of
+human lives; physically, morally and spiritually; industrially,
+financially and politically.
+
+"We have seen, that rural society, based on the co-operative farm colony
+as a unit; answers every demand for the protection and development of
+human life. We have seen that the inspiration of this society, is to
+secure for all, a lasting reign of peace, plenty, harmony and progress;
+a most convincing proof, that it is the ideal society on which to build
+a true republic, that shall be self-sustaining.
+
+"We have seen that the perfect emancipation of woman, and the exalted
+motherhood, which is made possible by the advantages of the co-operative
+system, insures the permanency and the dominancy of a republic so
+supported.
+
+"In analyzing the workings of the competitive system, we have seen that
+its methods are those of war. In the never-ending struggle of competing
+strife, opposing armies of human beings slowly grind each other to
+death; leaving unaccomplished the real object and purpose of life. This
+enormous waste of life, violates every principle of a republican form of
+government. It aborts even the efforts of planetary evolution.
+
+"We have seen that the competitive system produces monopolies and
+trusts, with a constantly increasing tendency to concentrate wealth in
+cities; placing it in the hands of the few, who are the financial
+masters of the many.
+
+"We have seen that from the ranks of the wealthy few, come the leaders
+of competitive society, who make their strong holds in the great city.
+They are the shining lights of the competitive system. They believe in a
+constant warfare of competition, which brings suffering to the many and
+success to the few. We have seen that a surfeit of wealth and power, has
+made these leaders so despicably selfish and unpatriotic, that they are
+unwilling to pay a just proportion of tax for support of the government.
+
+"We have seen that the monopolist, encouraged by the sympathy of
+competitive society, endeavors to monopolize administrative and
+executive functions. By means of unequal rates of taxation, and more
+especially of unjust assessments, he is able to shift most of his taxes
+to the shoulders of farmers and small property holders in state, county
+and town. This outrageous evasion by the rich, of their just share of
+the burdens of government, is shameful to the last degree! It robs the
+poor of all protection, that governments are bound to offer! It is a
+crime against humanity! It is a sin against the perpetuity of the
+republic! It is anarchy! If a government is no longer able to protect
+its poor; then, such a government has forfeited all right to exist!
+
+"We have seen that a true government, republican in form, is a
+co-operative institution, which must be based on justice, and equal
+rights, for all; thus recognizing the common brotherhood of humanity.
+Organized and maintained for the purpose of conserving, developing and
+protecting life; such a government, would at all times be guided by the
+beacon light of the axiom, 'That the injury of one is the concern of
+all.' It would wisely measure its strength and perfection as a
+government, by the strength and perfection of its weakest unit.
+
+"We have seen that with members of competitive society, the accumulation
+of wealth, becomes the sole ambition of life; that they may enjoy the
+ease, luxury and social power which follows. We have seen that wealth
+develops selfishness and idleness. Idleness breeds helplessness, vice,
+disease, and extinction. The predominance of such a society, would mean
+the death of the republic.
+
+"Having compared the merits and demerits of the two industrial systems,
+and of their closely related societies; taking it for granted, that as
+the highest expression of social evolution, the republic must endure;
+which, George, do you think will prove the true system, the true
+society, that must predominate; that must naturally develop most social
+and political power; most perfect conditions of life; most happiness?"
+
+"There can be but one answer, Fillmore! The co-operative is the true
+system, and the true society! You have made it very plain that the
+republic cannot endure without them. It is equally evident, that with
+restraining influences removed, city populations in a large measure,
+will again return to the country for homes; attracted thither by the
+many advantages offered by co-operative village life."
+
+"Speaking of homes, George, reminds me that I must now confer with you
+in regard to a personal matter, which may affect your work and your
+welfare for many years. This is the fifteenth of September. You have now
+been in Solaris, a little over one month, with an opportunity to study
+the co-operative movement quite extensively. I believe you are in
+harmony with it; and can do a good work for it.
+
+"This office, as you know, is the present headquarters of the general
+movement. Tomorrow I am going East, to be absent at least one month,
+perhaps three. I wish you, as my private secretary, to at once take
+charge of the office. I can offer you a salary of $1,500 for the first
+year. The office staff is a capable one, which will make your work quite
+light. I have made arrangements with Mr. and Mrs. Gerrish and with Miss
+Houghton, to co-operate with you as advisers. Since the first
+establishment of the office, Miss Houghton has so often volunteered to
+assist me, that she is now familiar with the routine work. Finally, I
+shall at all times while away, be within reach by phone or wire; by
+which I wish you to consult me whenever occasion may demand. What say
+you, George! Can you accept my proposal?"
+
+"Yes, Fillmore, I accept without one moment's hesitation! I shall be
+delighted with the opportunity to work for the interests of
+co-operation. You may trust me to do my best!
+
+"By the way, Fillmore! I take it for granted, that before you return you
+will meet Miss Fenwick, and her friend Mrs. Bainbridge, if so, please
+present my regards."
+
+"I shall not forget your message, friend Gaylord! Miss Fenwick is now at
+Fairy-Fern-Cottage, on the Hudson. She will meet me at Fenwick Hall, in
+Washington, where we are to be married on the twentieth day of this
+month.
+
+"The wedding is to be strictly private and informal, only Miss Fenwick's
+attorneys are to be present as the necessary witnesses. After the
+wedding, the customary tour will be omitted; leaving us free to remain
+at Fenwick Hall, until the inspiration of the moment brings the choice
+of some mountain or sea-side resort.
+
+"I shall expect you, George, to mail weekly reports from the office, to
+Fenwick Hall. Wire me for instructions, whenever you are in doubt."
+
+"I shall obey your wishes to the letter, Fillmore! What you tell me of
+the coming wedding, is glorious news! I congratulate you with all my
+heart, on your great good fortune! You deserve it; you have well earned
+it!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIII.
+
+A TWENTIETH CENTURY HONEYMOON.
+
+
+At Fenwick Hall, in the early twilight of their wedding day, we find our
+hero and heroine, the bride and groom, now husband and wife. They are
+sitting side by side, hand in hand, looking forth from the large
+southern window of that magnificent tower room, hitherto known as the
+private retreat of Fern Fenwick. The outlook from that window was a
+revelation of beauty, as perfect as a dream of fairy land.
+
+As the twilight deepened, high in the southern sky, the full-orbed
+splendor of a September moon, glorified with its soft radiance, the
+marked beauty of the Capital City--the Pearl City of the republic. From
+the mysterious depths of stilly night, intensifying the soothing charm
+of moonlight; there came softly stealing through the open window, the
+balmy airs of evening, laden with the fragrant breath of a thousand
+flowers. From the Aqueduct Bridge to Fort Foote, a long line of
+brilliant light, with many a graceful curve, marked the pathway of the
+broad Potomac, whose unruffled bosom shone like a mirror of burnished
+silver. Stretching across the valley from distant heights, a fleecy veil
+of enchantment woven in the loom of mist, etherealized city and river,
+dome and monument, tower and steeple, cottage and castle; adding a weird
+beauty to the magnificent array of public buildings, which owned the
+Capitol and the Library as chief. Above and beyond all else in its
+unapproachable glory, the Dome of the Capitol in the mellow, hazy
+moonlight, shone resplendent as a matchless crown to the architecture
+of the Occident!
+
+Responsive to the spell woven by the fairy fingers of moonlight, in
+which soul and sense sink to the spiritual repose of that serene calm,
+where in silence, happiness of the purest type best expresses itself;
+these newly wedded lovers, living in the inner world, lost to the outer,
+remained motionless and absorbed in the ecstasy of contemplation.
+
+Fern was the first to break the silence. She said: "My dear Fillmore!
+Tell me, is this the beginning of some reign of enchantment? The
+culmination of love's dream? Are we waking or dreaming? Can it be
+possible, that this glorious moonlight, so auspiciously ushering in our
+honeymoon, is typical and indicative of its endurance, of its unalloyed
+brightness?"
+
+"My wife! Chosen one of all women! Your devoted lover for six years;
+having passed the stage of love at first sight, hopeless love,
+worshiping love from afar, patient love, love requited and love
+rewarded; I am now so happy, so unspeakably optimistic, that I accept
+without question the happy augury of enchanted moonlight, as being truly
+prophetic. Besides, having a wife so noble, so good and so wise, to make
+it possible; how could our honeymoon be other than the most delightful
+ever known to the history of love? You may trust me, dear heart, to do
+my best towards making that prophecy come true!"
+
+"In discussing honeymoons, even my own; I may not be permitted to trust,
+in what is given to me to know. As a maiden of twenty-six summers, now
+your wife; I know very well that a husband who is just, loving, noble
+and true, is the most important of all factors, in securing the
+perfection of the ideal honeymoon. That six-year ordeal of loyal,
+patient love, which you have so thoughtfully analyzed and classified,
+has made you very dear to me! In overcoming this ordeal so victoriously,
+you have displayed a strength of character which has commanded my
+admiration. You have been unselfish, courageous, persistent of purpose,
+trustful, thoughtfully sagacious, perfectly trustworthy, and strictly
+honorable. For these characteristics, so like those possessed by my
+father; I love you more than for all else. Since crowned with conscious
+life, my father has been to me, the standard of an ideal man! If ever a
+daughter worshipped a father; I was that daughter. In character, you, of
+all the men I have met, are the nearest like him. Stronger words of
+praise than these, the lips of a proud, loving wife, could not utter!
+Now Fillmore! My dear husband! I am going to kiss you, as an antidote;
+lest the fervor of my speech, should make you vain, just a little!"
+
+"The antidote seems to work like a charm! Yet, a speech so full of such
+crushing praise, coming from the lips of the loveliest and most
+thoughtful of wives, is very provocative to vanity. It makes my case so
+desperate, that it really requires heroic treatment. To make the
+antidote effective, I should say, increase the quantity of the dose;
+administer very frequently!
+
+"But seriously, my dear wife! I am overwhelmed by the tribute of praise,
+which you have paid to my character! To me, the character of Fennimore
+Fenwick, is nobleness personified! To have my own continually compared
+with one so exalted, is a very trying ordeal. I tremble for the
+consequences! I am now so happy, that in the very selfishness of my
+love for you, I may shatter your ideal. To disappoint you; would be to
+forfeit my paradise! In times of trial, I shall appeal to you as the
+noblest and best of wives, to use your highest gifts of occult power to
+assist me in retaining your respect, admiration and love. Meanwhile, my
+dear wife! I shall cherish in my heart, the memory of your tribute, as a
+talisman, as a perpetual inspiration to live up to my highest ideal!
+Whatever happens, I shall be myself."
+
+"That, Fillmore, has the true ring of your natural nobility! Be
+yourself, and we shall be lovers forever! With that question settled;
+under the inspiration of this lovely moon, let us commence the
+construction of our castles in the air. In marrying a woman with a great
+fortune, you have pledged yourself to share equally with her, the
+pleasures, cares and responsibilities of her riches. Remembering, that
+henceforth, we are joint trustees, under my father's direction, for the
+wise use and distribution of this wealth. It becomes our duty to make
+competent and well-considered plans for the work. What say you, my dear
+husband! Shall we not do well, if we devote a generous share of our
+honeymoon to the making, development and perfection of these plans?"
+
+"What you propose, my dear Fern, will make me very happy! I shall be
+delighted with the opportunity to relieve you of a portion of the burden
+of your responsibilities, by sharing them. How, and when shall we
+commence the plan making?"
+
+"Before undertaking the plans, it will be necessary for us to ascertain
+just how much we are worth, financially speaking. For this purpose, we
+must make a complete and carefully classified inventory of our
+properties, both real and personal. This important task, we will take up
+tomorrow, working deliberately until it is finished. It is quite likely
+to prove a long one, bristling with interesting data, suggestive and
+educative, as to the extent of your newly assumed responsibilities.
+
+"After the inventory is complete, we will each in favor of the other,
+make and execute a will, conveying the property described by the
+inventory. Then, we shall be prepared for the accidents, emergencies and
+unexpected changes of a mortal existence.
+
+"Having disposed of the wills, we will return to the inventory. Going
+over it without haste, item by item. While considering each one, I will
+give its history; then, we will make a short note, embodying our
+individual ideas as to the best present or future disposition of that
+particular piece of property. These notes to be attached to the
+inventory. By the time we have finished this work, you will have
+acquired such a firm mental grasp of our financial situation, that you
+can advise me wisely, or act alone, as the occasion may demand."
+
+"Pardon me, sweetheart! What of our coming conference with your father,
+Fennimore Fenwick? Is that to be postponed until we have finished the
+preliminary work, which you have outlined?"
+
+"Yes, my lover! I would not have you take part in the consultation,
+without first being equipped with this important knowledge. Besides, it
+was so understood, by father and myself, when we arranged to have the
+conference take place on the afternoon of the fifth day after the
+wedding. There will be plenty of time. You are perfectly satisfied with
+the arrangement, are you not?"
+
+"More than satisfied, my good angel! I can hardly realize my good
+fortune! I am eager to begin the work. What a delightful time we shall
+have! To have you introduce me to our wealth, by the way of this unique,
+honeymoon program; is something very like a fairy story! I could not
+devise or imagine anything more delightful!
+
+"Six years ago, at the time of our meeting, I was hopeful and ambitious.
+My heart was filled with an earnest longing for the fulfillment of my
+one great purpose in life. But, how to accomplish that purpose, was
+hidden from me by the veil of the future. Then, I never dreamed that
+waiting behind the veil, love was the goddess of good fortune, who was
+to guide me to success! It is the unexpected which always happens!
+Thinking not of self; destiny smiled on my unselfishness, and kindly led
+me to my fate! Having met you, I dared to love! Discovering that you
+cherished a purpose in life like my own, I dared to hope! Trusting to
+love, as the messenger of destiny; in the unalloyed happiness of this
+glorious honeymoon, I have reached the goal of all my ambitious hopes!
+When I reflect on the magical change of my environments, and the new
+career in life which has opened for me; I can appreciate the full
+significance of the miracle which love has wrought!
+
+"Knowing the importance of unselfishness on the part of the individual,
+as a necessary factor in the successful co-operation of the multitude; I
+perceive that selfishness must be overcome by a comprehensive system of
+education, organized for that particular purpose. The organization of
+such a system must be accomplished by a small number of enthusiasts, who
+are willing to devote their lives to it. This means, that they must be
+people of wealth and leisure.
+
+"As an evidence of appreciation of responsibility, for my stewardship
+of the wealth which you have bestowed upon me; I wish now to declare my
+purpose. It is, to devote the remainder of my life to this educational
+work. It now comes to me, that this is the work described for us, in
+your letter, written to me over thirty months ago; where, in a vision of
+the future, you saw us united, side by side, hand in hand, fighting
+successfully against the poverty breeding hosts of selfishness. From the
+innermost depths of my being, I rejoice over this most fortunate
+opportunity, which permits me to take an active part in such an
+important work! My heart swells with pride and happiness, when I feel
+and know that I am to have the honor of standing by your side, in the
+fore-front of the fight!
+
+"I can now appreciate the utility of my long apprenticeship on the
+co-operative farm. In no other way, could I have been so well prepared
+for leadership in the educational movement. I have learned just what
+agricultural people need to make them perfect citizens of a perfected
+republic. A republic of peace, without a police; without the burden of a
+standing army, to menace and oppress its citizens, because they are
+already a law unto themselves, at peace with all the world. When I
+analyze the influences which have inspired and led me, throughout this
+extraordinary course of training; I recognize the action of a dominant,
+guiding mind; the far-seeing wisdom of my noble friend and benefactor,
+Fennimore Fenwick. To him, and to the spirit world, I shall ever be
+profoundly grateful! Is it not a most beautiful illustration, of the
+power of spirits to co-operate with mortals?"
+
+"Very true and rightly spoken, my prince of husbands! I too, am glad,
+that during the six years of your preparatory training, destiny's
+messenger--love--has guided you so wisely. With your intuitive nature, I
+am not surprised that you have divined so clearly, the general scope of
+the life work, which my father has planned for us. At the coming
+conference, he is to unfold the details of the work. Let us well employ
+the intervening time, in doing the preliminary work; which, as you have
+so well said, will give us an added relish for the enjoyment of our
+delightful honeymoon."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIV.
+
+THE NEW CRUSADE.
+
+
+The beautiful seance room at Fenwick Hall, was known to the chosen few,
+as the "Tower of the Psychics." In fittings, furniture, and equipment,
+it was much the same as the square room in the central tower at Fairy
+Fern Cottage. From the beginning, this room had been devoted to but one
+purpose; that of an audience chamber for the intercommunion of the Two
+Worlds, the spirit and the mortal. Every visiting mortal felt the
+presence of a refined spiritual atmosphere, a highly charged,
+electrostatic potential, which made possible superior spiritual
+conditions. In this room, Fennimore Fenwick was at home, to the chosen
+few of his friends on the mortal plane of existence. On the afternoon of
+the conference, we find our hero and heroine in this room, awaiting the
+coming of Fennimore Fenwick.
+
+While Fillmore was admiring the full length, life size painting of his
+spiritual friend and benefactor, which hung on the wall opposite the
+entrance to the room; the familiar voice of the original, through the
+trumpet very near, gave him a cordial greeting.
+
+"Bless you, my son! How glad I am, to welcome you to Fenwick Hall, as
+its new master! May your reign here as such, prove long and prosperous!
+In the enthusiasm of my fatherly pride, allow me to congratulate you on
+your rare good fortune, in winning the hand and heart of my daughter,
+Fern. She is a pearl above price! Ever love her devotedly, my boy!
+Cherish her tenderly, as the brightest jewel in your crown of life!"
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Fenwick! For your affectionate and kindly words of
+welcome! To me, they are more gracious, more inspiring and more
+delightful, than words can express! They have so taken me by surprise,
+that I am overwhelmed by the strong tide of emotions welling up from my
+grateful heart! As to your commands in relation to my precious wife; you
+may trust me! Waking or sleeping, I shall never forget them! They are
+burned into my heart, by the intensity of my love for her, by the force
+of my lasting esteem and admiration for you! How can I ever properly
+thank you, my noble benefactor, for your great goodness to me; for your
+supreme confidence in my integrity? In return, I can only ask you to
+accept my pledge, to ever strive to merit that confidence!"
+
+"Do not thank me, my son! Thank Love! Destiny's messenger; who, as a
+reward for your unselfishness, has kindly led you to the goal of your
+present happiness!"
+
+"And you, my beloved daughter! Are you quite happy! May I also
+congratulate you, on having so wisely chosen a husband, who is in every
+way worthy? Do you remember the promise I made to you, on the night of
+my transition? A promise to bring to your side, a friend, a counselor, a
+protector, whose wisdom and integrity, should at all times, prove
+sufficient for the needs of the hour. Are you satisfied, my dear girl?
+Have I faithfully kept my promise?"
+
+"Yes, father! I am more than satisfied! I am a contented woman, I am
+very happy! The quiet delicious calm of my happiness, is a new
+experience for me. Heretofore, I had supposed that happy women must be
+vivacious and voluble, from the very effervescence of their happiness.
+Now I know that it is not so. Your characteristic words of praise, for
+the one I have chosen as a husband, have made me very proud of him and
+deeply grateful to you! In him, I have found the promised friend,
+counselor and protector; also, an ideal lover. But, my dearest, kindest,
+best of fathers; you know very well, that to trust you implicitly, is a
+law of my life! I have always trusted you! Therefore, I am not
+disappointed; neither am I very much surprised. I am just perfectly
+happy. That is the whole story in a nutshell!"
+
+"This is as it should be, my children! When I first saw you, Fillmore, I
+felt intuitively, that you and Fern were made for each other. I knew I
+could trust you together, to finish my work. Now, I rejoice, that my
+intuitions were so prophetic!
+
+"In your work at Solaris Farm, Fillmore, you have succeeded beyond my
+most sanguine hopes. I congratulate you heartily, my son, on this
+initial success for the co-operative movement! This is but the beginning
+of the work. As we go farther, wider fields are opened for more extended
+efforts. You have already correctly surmised, that selfishness in
+humanity has become so dominant, so crystallized, from long centuries
+under the heartless reign of competition, that only a far-reaching, well
+organized, especially designed scheme of education, can conquer the
+evil. By means of this educational program, we shall be able to open the
+eyes of both poor and rich, to the benefits of co-operation.
+
+"It has been wisely and truthfully said, that: 'The destruction of the
+poor, is their poverty. That conversely, the poverty of the poor, is the
+real power of the rich.' In these two short sentences, we have the most
+scathing indictment against present social and industrial conditions,
+that could be made! These conditions are wickedly abnormal! They are
+entirely out of harmony with the law of progress, and of planetary
+evolution! To change them for something better, is the crying need of
+the hour!
+
+"It were a mercy to both rich and poor alike, to make them financially
+independent of each other! Then, freed from the thraldom of selfishness,
+they could discover and appreciate, each for themselves, the true object
+and purpose of human life. For this reason, our new educational
+movement, must be so arranged, that it may successfully appeal to all
+classes.
+
+"For the industrial classes, the agriculturalists and the artisans, we
+can use the co-operative farm movement as a basis of education. As for
+the wealthy remainder, they must first be taught to respect the
+sacredness and the true purpose of human life, before they can
+contemplate any form of social or co-operative progress, with feelings
+other than contempt, or at least angry opposition. This is to be
+expected. It is the natural outgrowth of the teachings of a society,
+which is controlled by the hierarchy of competition. Both the
+co-operative farm and the broader educational movement, are to be
+embraced by the work of the New Crusade.
+
+"The New Crusade, is to be organized, promoted and maintained, for the
+peaceful conquest of poverty; and the consequent banishment of ignorance
+and crime. These grand purposes, shall be emblazoned on its banners,
+appealing to the chivalry and knighthood of the republic for support.
+Never before has the bugle of the crusader, blown the assembly call for
+so noble a cause! Victory for this glorious cause, means a recognition
+of the true nobility of labor: The establishment of peace on earth, and
+happiness for all: An abundant harvest, for all productive toil: The
+sacredness and divine significance of life: The brotherhood of humanity:
+And the solidarity of all social interests. To the victors, shall come
+the well earned plaudits of a thousand future generations; whose sons
+and daughters shall chant the story of the unparalleled chivalry of such
+noble, unselfish deeds!
+
+"To you, my children, is assigned the task and the honor of inaugurating
+this peaceful campaign. From you, it will demand extraordinary activity,
+courage and administrative ability; reinforced by large sums of money.
+Fortunately, the Fenwick fortune is ample. Use it without stint. Fenwick
+Hall, is roomy and well fitted for the headquarters of the New Crusade;
+and for the housing of its organizing staff; which, from the magnitude
+of the work, will be a large one. A bureau of literature must be formed.
+A newspaper and a magazine, devoted to the cause of the Crusade, must be
+published. They must be the best of their kind. The editorial talent
+must be of the highest order, the ablest in the land. Every State in the
+Republic, must be made a department of the Crusade. A select army corps
+of teachers, organizers and leaders, must be assembled, trained and
+thoroughly prepared, to take charge of these departments. They will be
+the executive and recruiting officers of the Crusade; rendering weekly
+reports to the headquarters in Washington. Every co-operative farm, will
+become an outpost and a recruiting station; every State, a grand
+encampment.
+
+"In recruiting crusaders from the ranks of the wealthy, a special effort
+should be made, to have them take up the cause as a fashionable fad.
+They can be diplomatically led, where they cannot be coaxed or driven.
+In the face of any opposition they may display, it must ever be borne in
+mind, that the hearts of nine-tenths of the wealthy, are good and true.
+Their natural promptings are to do right; to use their riches for the
+advancement of science, and for the cause of humanity. They would do
+better, if they only knew how. They must be educated. The competitive
+system, under which they were born, trained and made rich, is at fault.
+By it, they have been taught, that poverty is a necessary and permanent
+state; to which, a large majority of the people of the earth, are
+assigned by the action of a divine law. Therefore, any attempt to banish
+poverty would be not only useless, but actually sinful. Nevertheless,
+prompted by a higher law, many of them annually dispense large sums in
+charity. Under the competitive system, charity only aggravates the
+malady. It is money thrown away! As the recipients are thus enabled to
+work for less wages; increasing the gains of competitive masters; and
+finally, swelling the ranks of the helpless poor. After a few trials,
+even the most persistent alms-giver soon discovers, that as an antidote
+to poverty, charity is a wretched failure. Taking it for granted, that
+the competitive system is a permanent one which is to endure forever, he
+gives up the problem as hopeless.
+
+"It is to be the business of the New Crusade, to show why the
+co-operative should be substituted for the competitive system. It must
+teach the wealthy classes, the vast importance of the great lesson
+taught at Solaris. Namely, that by organized, unselfish co-operation;
+independent self-employment, producing an abundance for all, may be
+speedily and practicably substituted for every form of poverty. The
+Crusade must demonstrate, that ignorance, poverty and crime, are
+handmaidens, which cannot exist apart. That if one-half the money
+expended for charity during the past fifty years, had been used to
+promote co-operative self-employment, poverty, tramps and ignorance,
+would now be things of the past.
+
+"To the people of the republic at large, must be taught the significance
+of the contrast between the war-like competitive system, and the
+peaceful methods of a co-operative association. Co-operation, makes
+combined individual effort, equal to the wealth of independence. The
+co-operator, being self-employed, no longer strives to displace a fellow
+workman by offering service at a lower price.
+
+"Competition, emphasizes the poverty and helplessness of the individual,
+because it sets every man against his neighbor, against the whole world.
+The competitor deliberately shuts himself away from all gain that might
+come to him from the force and effectiveness of associated effort. He
+loses all faith in mankind; in honesty and justice. He views the good
+fortune of a fellow toiler, as a personal injury, which he ought to
+resent. In fact, he becomes too selfish to even be patriotic!
+
+"The quickest way to convince the people of the barbarism, the cruelty,
+and the wickedness of such a system, is to establish a co-operative farm
+in every available township throughout the land. The free, healthy,
+trained, and well-educated social communities, growing up on these
+farms, will become the units of a true society; the underlying
+foundation, on which to build the true republic.
+
+"Society dominates the political expression of nations. It molds and
+controls public opinion, business methods and commercial usage. Under
+the reign of competitive business and society, the market is largely
+composed of small wage earners, whose necessities are so great, whose
+tenure of employment is so uncertain, and whose wages are so scanty;
+that they are forced to buy the cheapest of everything. On the part of
+tradespeople, the fierce competition to control this cheap market,
+encourages the use of an outrageous system of food adulteration, and
+with it, every possible degree of lying, cheating, fraud and deception;
+until the moral tone of both business and society, has become blunted;
+yes, well nigh destroyed. As a result of this shameful state of
+commercial affairs, the successful man in any line of business, can no
+longer afford to be honest. He knows very well, that in competitive
+business, he can utterly ignore honor, conscience, and self-respect,
+without losing the approval of competitive society. Can such a rotten
+society ever become a safe foundation for the government of a true
+republic?
+
+"It is to be the mission of the New Crusade to teach and to demonstrate,
+that under the reign of a co-operative system, and society, these
+conditions would be reversed. All incentives to cheapen goods, or to
+adulterate food products, would vanish. The co-operators would then form
+the bulk of the market. Buying at wholesale collectively, to sell to
+themselves individually; they would be in a financial condition to pay
+remunerative prices, for whatever was genuine, pure, wholesome, good,
+reliable and lasting. Inferior articles, they would not purchase at any
+price. The demand for cheap stuff would cease. The dominant motive of
+the commercial world, would be revolutionized. Among manufacturers and
+producers, the cry would be, not how cheap, but how excellent, can we
+make our goods! The long-practiced, skillful chicanery of competitive
+methods, would be at a discount; they would be worse than useless!
+Honest men could then engage in business, without violating either
+honor, or conscience! Cheating and lying, would no longer form a part of
+the business code! At all times, and under all circumstances, to respect
+the sacredness of life, and the natural rights of man, would become the
+universal watchword! Justice would dethrone charity! The high moral tone
+of the industrial and commercial world, would pervade the social and
+political. The injury of the weakest, would become the concern of the
+strongest. The rising tide of humanitarianism would submerge poverty.
+The fires of ignorance and crime, would be extinguished by its
+conquering flood.
+
+"Than this, no lesson more important, could be taught to the people. The
+scales of selfishness having fallen from their eyes, they can be made to
+understand, that all of these wonderful things may be accomplished,
+quickly and easily, by the plain, practical methods of unselfish
+co-operation. Methods, whose assured results are as easily demonstrable,
+as the solution of a mathematical problem. Once convinced, they will
+make haste to discard the wasteful methods of the competitive system;
+substituting therefor, the co-operative conservation of national wealth.
+In this conservation, the wealth of the unit, will be the measure of the
+wealth of the nation.
+
+"This conservation will usher in a new era, of the means of gathering,
+and of the higher uses of national wealth. A magnificent national fund,
+accumulated for the benefit, education, refinement and enjoyment of all.
+The swiftness of its accumulation and the magnitude of its billions,
+will become the marvel of the world! By contrast, all former standards
+of the wealth of nations, will fade and shrink to insignificance! Why
+must this prove true? Because, under the beneficent reign of
+co-operative equality, money, shorn of its power, would only be valued
+for its use. The store of national wealth, being for the equal use and
+benefit of every individual citizen; the incentive for its accumulation,
+would inspire all alike. As a result, the people as a mass would enjoy
+all the benefits of great wealth, minus its burdens, abuses, temptations
+and dangers. In this, any one of them might be envied by the competitive
+millionaires.
+
+"Among the many lessons in addition to those enumerated, which the
+Crusade must teach to the people; I would strongly emphasize the
+following:
+
+"That human life, as the flower and fruit of the planet--each individual
+being a microcosm of the macrocosm--must always be held as the most
+sacred and the most precious of all things. Because it is the object and
+purpose, the beginning, the expression, the commandment and the
+fulfillment of the law.
+
+"That the law of life and the law of progress, are complements of each
+other. Like twin sisters, they act as a bond between the systems of the
+universe; they embrace all things, from an atom to the Infinite!
+
+"That activity, is the expression of life! Necessity and glory, are the
+two poles of human activity; its inspiration and its motor power!
+
+"It is the evident purpose of natural law, that the activity of man
+shall unceasingly produce for all, an abundance of the necessities,
+comforts and luxuries of life.
+
+"Ignorance, is the giant who bars the pathway of progress! Labor from
+necessity, reigns as a rule, in all ages of ignorance! Misery and
+poverty, are its children!
+
+"Labor for glory, marks the age of enlightened progress, where all may
+have an opportunity to express individuality, through their handiwork;
+to taste the great joy, that comes with the consciousness of
+participation in spontaneous, unselfish, intelligent activity, which
+shall insure the reign of perpetual peace and plenty. In this, man's
+conquest over matter, becomes the true glory of labor! In the variety of
+self-chosen, self-directed, co-operative, productive labor, is found
+life's greatest blessing.
+
+"Organized, unselfish co-operation, will teach the people to appreciate
+the dignity, and the true nobility of labor. From it, they will learn
+that labor, however simple or insignificant, is far nobler than any kind
+of enervating idleness; no matter how much that idleness may be gilded
+by the varnish of honor! Godin says: 'A day's work well done, is worth
+more than a whole existence of inactivity!'
+
+"Labor develops the possibilities of life! It is the effective
+instrument which makes possible the progress of nations, the
+emancipation of peoples! The labor of passing ages has evolved a fund of
+ideas, best adapted to guide humanity towards a true interpretation of
+the object and purpose of human life.
+
+"Labor will cease to be a burden, when man comprehends its true mission.
+Stripped of its drudgery, released from the harness of toil and the spur
+of necessity, the brightness of the blessing of labor shines forth
+resplendent. In the halo of this radiant truth, can anyone be guilty of
+a blasphemy, which degrades labor to the penalty of a punishment.
+
+"The question of politics is intimately associated with the question of
+labor. The science of politics, is the science of life. Government, is
+its expression. Self-government by the individual, is its keynote. The
+study of this science should be pursued by all classes, with the
+enthusiasm born of a religious zeal. A few of its most important
+principles may be found embodied in the following propositions. If we
+wish to be able to take an interest in moral life; we must first satisfy
+the demands of physical life. If we wish to practice justice, we must
+first learn the law of Right and Duty; that is, in striving to satisfy
+our own material wants, we must learn how to protect the rights of
+others. We must remember, that they too are toiling for the same
+purpose.
+
+"In order to protect the welfare of each political unit, these
+principles must form the basis of all scientific politics. In the social
+units evolved by co-operative life, these conditions are embodied and
+expressed. In them, we shall find the basis upon which to build a grand,
+social, industrial and political organization. An organization, which
+shall truly represent Liberty and Justice; which, in its expression as
+a whole, shall be the government of the New Republic!
+
+"Co-operation is the foe of despotism! Associated, intelligent,
+political co-operation, is the educator which shall teach the people,
+that a true republic cannot exist until, in the minds of its leaders,
+every vestige of the spirit of despotism has been cast out.
+
+"In the accomplishment of this great political work, faith in the
+destiny of this republic, its people, and its mission, is to prove a
+most important factor. To endow a people with faith, is to multiply
+their strength tenfold! Faith, reinforced by knowledge, is an
+irresistible force, against which naught can prevail! Hence, it becomes
+imperative, that in each school and kindergarten of the republic, its
+children should be taught in broad outlines, the vastness of its
+territory, and the magnitude of its natural resources.
+
+"I cannot too strongly emphasize the necessity for this important part
+of the political education of children! As the future guardians and law
+makers of the republic, its children should acquire a thorough knowledge
+of the widely diversified characteristics of each geographical
+sub-division. This, they must accomplish, before they can be prepared to
+appreciate the overshadowing significance, of its past, present, and
+future destiny.
+
+"The kindergarten offers perfect conditions, for the introduction of a
+primary course of this political instruction. By using a large outline
+map, showing the geographical and geological formation, the mineral
+deposits, the extent or area of timbered and agricultural lands, the
+manufacturing centers, the principal wagon-roads and lines of
+transportation, the natural trade centers, the population, the schools,
+the chief officers, and the well known political leaders of each
+sub-division; a series of intellectual excursions could be so arranged,
+and made so interesting to the children, that they would soon master
+these statistics, as identified with every State and Territory in the
+Republic. Having finished the subdivisions, attention could then be
+given to a much larger map of the United States, on which the States and
+Territories on a smaller scale, would show the same statistics. From
+this map, the study of the political statistics of the States and
+Territories, by groups, could then be commenced.
+
+"A comparative study of the groups, would be full of interest for the
+children, and would offer a great number of delightful surprises. The
+six groups in natural order, should be classified as follows: The New
+England, the Middle, the Southern States; the States of the great basin
+of the Mississippi Valley, including the imperial State of Texas; the
+Rocky Mountain States, and the States of the Pacific Slope, including
+that remarkable, and only partially explored Territory, Alaska.
+
+"From these group studies, the children may learn many object lessons,
+which might demonstrate to them, the natural supremacy of this republic,
+over other nations. I may mention the following, as noteworthy: The
+Great Lakes of the Middle West; with a coast line of more than three
+thousand miles in length; with an interstate commerce which exceeds in
+tonnage, the combined shipping trade of France and Germany. The
+marvelous capacity of the great agricultural States of the Mississippi
+Valley to become the granary of the world; to furnish its entire food
+supply, of bread, beef and pork. The imperial State of Texas, with its
+wealth of wheat, cane, corn, cotton and cattle; with a domain so wide,
+that it equals in extent, that of Great Britain, European Turkey,
+Switzerland, Denmark and Portugal. Again, passing to the uttermost
+regions of the Great Northwest, we should find the mammoth Territory of
+Alaska, rich in its unexplored forests, mineral deposits and golden
+sands; with a picturesque coast line of fabulous extent, stretching away
+to the North far beyond the Arctic Circle, indented by a multitude of
+romantic bays and inlets, where jutting crags, bold promontories of
+basaltic rock, countless islands, sparkling water and shining glaciers,
+fill the measure of beauty and grandeur.
+
+"Thus educated, the future guardians of the political welfare of the
+republic, would understand the natural wants of its widely separated
+sub-divisions; they would fully appreciate the significance of its
+destiny as a nation. They would always be loyal to the demands of that
+destiny, which should be commensurate with its inexhaustable resources,
+with the magnitude of its domain. A domain so immense, that when
+compared with the countries of the Old World, without counting island
+possessions, or the Territory of Alaska, it exceeds in extent, the
+combined areas of China proper, Japan, Austria, Germany, France, Spain,
+Portugal, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Greece, Denmark, Norway, Sweden,
+Switzerland, Great Britain, and European Turkey. With the hearts of its
+voters inspired by such patriotic teachings, the Republic must endure;
+must fulfill its prophetic destiny! Naught can prevail against it! Not
+even the selfish schemes of a corrupt oligarchy; no matter how boldly
+they plan or how many billions of capital they may control!
+
+"In teaching these things, my children; also in enlarging and perfecting
+the work of the Crusade, I can promise you the support and co-operation
+of the spirit world. The broad outlines, which I have given, will
+suggest the more complete details of the work, which I now leave in your
+hands."
+
+"That thought alone, Mr. Fenwick," said Fillmore, "ought to prove a
+tower of strength to us. May we not make that co-operation more
+effective, by a closer study of the conditions that prevail, and of the
+laws which govern spirit life?"
+
+"Later on my son, that will be advisable. But just at present, it is of
+the utmost importance, that every effort should be made to improve the
+social, industrial, mental and physical condition of mortals, as the
+necessary foundation for true spiritual growth.
+
+"Mental growth must precede the spiritual. Power exercised by the mind
+over the body, in moulding physical structure, multiplies the power of
+the spirit acting on matter, again reacting on both mind and body.
+Consciousness, is spiritual life. To enlarge the sphere of
+consciousness, is to add to spiritual growth. Evolution, is nature's
+effort towards progression. The new spiritual era, which began with the
+last half of the nineteenth century, was marked by a dawning
+consciousness in the mind of man, that he might become a self-directing
+factor in his own evolution. This consciousness in turn, became the
+starting point of spiritual evolution on the mortal plane of existence.
+The last, having been made possible by the first.
+
+"Reasoning from the premises stated, we must logically conclude that the
+embodiment of more mind, of better mind, is a matter of the utmost
+importance to the whole human race. As body and brain are working parts
+of the mind, its machinery of expression; it is equally important, that
+both mind and body should be perfected together. Hence, the necessity
+for better social conditions, more financial independence, less labor,
+more leisure, longer life and larger brain capacity; and finally, as the
+crowning requirement, to be well born! To banish poverty, is to make
+these things possible.
+
+"Before a proper conception of the spiritual world can be entertained by
+mortals, their minds, by the aid of the sciences, must have acquired
+such knowledge of their environments, as shall satisfy the requirements
+of spiritual evolution. Every item of real knowledge thus gained, is
+just so much added preparation towards the understanding of the
+spiritual; towards a harmonious interblending, and co-operation of the
+two worlds. In accordance with the law of progression, truth, to the
+ever changing stages of consciousness, is relative. In order to
+illustrate the relativity of truth, and the magnitude of the domain of
+knowledge in the mortal state, which must be conquered before
+consciousness can be extended beyond the confines of the spiritual; let
+us consider the following, somewhat approximate postulates.
+
+"Let us suppose, that the life of the planet, Earth, embraces all forms
+of life; each individual life pulsating in harmony with the great mother
+heart of the planet.
+
+"Let us suppose, that spirits, both embodied and disembodied, incarnate
+and excarnate, considered as a mass, may act as the terrurgic spiritual
+body and brain of the planet; subjective and responsive to the
+inspiration and guidance of the universal cosmic mind, acting from the
+cosmic center.
+
+"Let us suppose, that the material world, with the atom as its smallest
+unit, is the medium of mortal existence. Again, that the impalpable
+ether of the interstellar spaces, is the medium of existence for the
+spiritual world. And again, as a measure of the fineness of ether, that
+the difference between an ether particle and an atom, should be as wide
+as the difference between the atom and the planet.
+
+"Considering these posits as a basis for comparing life in the two
+realms, we at once perceive that life, organized to correspond with the
+coarse meshes of the material plane of existence, can be permeated,
+filled and quickened, by organized spiritual life, without disturbing
+the unity of either organization. The interblending of spirit and
+matter, is accomplished. The mystery of the dual existence of soul and
+body, is explained. The soul in the body, yet, not of the body! The
+permanent and the enduring, mated with the changing and the ephemeral!
+The cell life of the physical, with the soul life of the eternal!
+
+"In comparing the two states of existence, the physical with the
+spiritual, we find the horizon of consciousness in the former, is
+vaguely defined and very much limited; while in the latter, it is
+sharply defined and widely extended. The more we study and compare, the
+more readily we understand, that space, duration, size, minuteness,
+solidity and porosity, are all relative terms which depend for their
+significance entirely on the standpoint of consciousness. So apparent is
+this fact, that we soon learn how impossible it is for the mortal mind
+to understand, even the more simple elements of spirit life, until the
+dual or spiritual mind, with its consciousness, has grown and unfolded
+to the required extent. Hence, growth of consciousness, is growth of
+spirit; the spirit which molds and controls matter.
+
+"Self-conscious consciousness, is the immortal ego! As a part of the
+progressive, all inclusive, spiritual life of the planet, it takes part
+in the evolution and progression of the mass. This mass, in the
+fulfillment of the purpose of existence, is subjective and responsive to
+cosmic law, and to cosmic inspiration.
+
+"In these postulates, we have the key which unlocks the mystery of life.
+We catch a glimpse of its true meaning, purpose, glory and grandeur.
+They raise the theory and practice of human progress to a question of
+the first magnitude; to a science of life, which demands the attention
+of every student. The school of human life, lies at the base of the
+curiculum of knowledge. It becomes the foundation of spiritual progress,
+as well. Hence, the importance of rightly cultivating the mind, of
+extending its consciousness to the uttermost limits of human capacity.
+
+"Selfishness and despotism, are frowning barriers across the pathway of
+human progress. They thrive by war. War, is the foe of spirituality, the
+mother of murder! War must be abolished, before man can hope for true
+spiritual evolution! It is the fortunate destiny of this republic, to
+lead the race in a crusade against it; to open the way for its final
+abolition. It is to be the province of the Crusade to teach the people,
+that war has been the scourge of humanity since the beginning of the
+historical era; the greatest crime ever perpetrated against the
+sacredness of human life! Peace, multiplies the products of labor.
+Labor, is the genius of life! War, destroys the laborer and his product.
+War is the genius of death! War, is a symbol of barbarism; it is both
+the throne and the refuge of despotism. For the purpose of maintaining
+despotism, people for centuries have been subjected to the hard
+conditions of unremitting toil, that they might endure the fatigues of
+war without a murmur. For the same reason, despots have kept the masses
+in ignorance, lest they should discover the true quality of justice; the
+moral law, which condemns both despotism and war; lest they should come
+to realize all the horrors of the most outrageous crime possible to the
+conception of human reason; the crime of war! War is such an
+overwhelming calamity, that it is almost impossible to estimate the ruin
+and the destruction which it has wrought! If the millions of lives and
+the billions of treasure spent in the world's wars, had been employed in
+protecting the people, in generating, rearing, sustaining and developing
+them to the highest attainable point, this earth would now witness a
+social millennium; where peace and prosperity, high culture and
+harmonious brotherhood, would reign supreme!
+
+"I rejoice, that I am permitted to prophesy its downfall! Long before
+the close of the twentieth century, standing armies will disappear; war
+will be at an end; the angel of peace will spread her white wings over
+all the nations of the earth! This Crusade, is the beginning of the end!
+For the encouragement of our Crusaders, I will indicate two causes,
+acting from opposite directions, which will serve to hasten war's
+dissolution.
+
+"First: The competitive system, for centuries, has been war's chief
+recruiting office. Under its reign, in the fierce struggle for
+existence, it has kept up a perpetual warfare between man and man;
+always the stronger against the weaker. When vanquished, the weaker as a
+last resort, could and did, enlist as a soldier. Thanks to the
+co-operative farm, spread broadcast by the Crusade; the early
+substitution of the co-operative, for the competitive system, will make
+the weak strong; make them financially independent! Soldiering as a
+trade, is made possible by poverty! Whenever a people are emancipated
+from the cringing slavery of want, naturally averse to being
+slaughtered, they will rise en masse, and refuse to be apprenticed to
+the brutal trade of killing their kind. Thus it will happen, that armies
+will melt away and disappear, for the want of fighting men!
+
+"Second: Strange as it may appear, the inventors of mighty engines of
+war, of terrible explosives, of deadly missiles, each in turn, more
+horribly destructive than the others; are all envoys of peace; that
+sweet peace, which shall bring rest, renewed energy, and swift progress,
+to all classes. Through the multiplied and combined efforts of these
+inventors, the bloody and barbarous art of war, is fast becoming so
+suicidal, and so financially disastrous to the nations of the earth who
+have the misfortune to engage in it; that such as wish to preserve a
+national existence, must do so by making haste to ally themselves with
+the friends of universal peace, through international arbitration.
+
+"Under such circumstances, the nations of the earth, ground between the
+inexorable, upper and lower millstones of the first and second cause,
+acting under pressure of self-preservation, will, with one accord, join
+in covenanting for a total disarmament, and a perpetual peace. All
+hail, the glad day!
+
+"Then, will dawn man's era of true spiritual evolution! Then, will the
+true object and purpose of life, be understood! Then, will the
+sacredness of human life, be rightly conceived, appreciated, maintained
+and respected! Then, wholesale murder, no longer sanctioned by man-made
+laws, it will be possible to banish the spirit of murder from the life
+of the individual! Then, the lesser crimes, the demons of despotic
+selfishness, greed, cruelty, and lust for power, which now clog progress
+and prevent the realization of a practical brotherhood for humanity, can
+be shaken off and rendered harmless!
+
+"Then, the emancipated legions of toilers, will rise to a true
+understanding of the blessing of labor as the real expression of life;
+that the glory of labor, is man's conquest over matter; that food,
+shelter, raiment, and sustenance for body, mind and soul, are the
+essential elements of life; a natural equipment for the conquest! Then,
+it will be the province of a natural religion to teach the people how to
+help themselves! how to master the great problem of physical life, by
+attaining the greatest perfection in feeding, clothing, housing,
+educating, and spiritualizing humanity!
+
+"Then, the solidarity of the spiritual welfare of mankind, will equal
+that of the physical! Then, the measure of spiritual progress achieved
+by the mass, will be the measure of progress attained by its weakest
+unit! Then, will come perfect co-operation, between the spiritual and
+the physical! Then, will come the reign of liberty and justice, the
+guardian spirits of a true republic! Then, will come the social, the
+industrial, and the spiritual millennium! Then, the barriers of
+selfishness will have been burned away; the two worlds will be united;
+in the new atmosphere of brotherly love, spirit and mortal may
+harmoniously walk, talk, and work together for the perfection of the
+race!
+
+"Then, the great armies of the world, no longer in the guise of
+organized barbarism, or a tax on the industries of the nations, will be
+converted into armies of peace, engaged in the production of real
+wealth! Then, the heretofore undreamed of store of public wealth, will,
+in its proper distribution, give to all mankind, the acme of universal
+education, civilization and happiness!"
+
+
+
+
+CONCLUSION.
+
+
+Born leaders of a progressive age; filled with the inspiration of one
+great purpose in life; at all times, equal to the demands of the hour;
+hand in hand, with hearts united by the bonds of a supreme love; nobly
+unselfish, and spiritually refined; generous, handsome, accomplished;
+wealthy, eloquent and magnetic; Fillmore and Fern, our hero and heroine,
+were everywhere recognized as a commanding force in the social and
+political world. A force which quickly overcame all opposing obstacles.
+They were so much interested, and so absorbed in the ever increasing
+success of the Crusade, that the happy months and years flew swiftly by.
+Their devotion to each other, was a potent charm which begat in the
+hearts of a legion of admiring followers, an intense loyalty to them,
+and to the banner of the Crusade, which had led them to so many
+victories in the cause of humanity.
+
+The second decade of the century was throbbing with the birth of
+epoch-making events. The astrological forces seemed in conjunction with
+planetary evolution. The time was ripe for the incoming wave of a new
+social era. The spirit of progress was brooding in the air; stirring in
+the hearts of the people, who hailed the Crusaders as blessed evangels
+of the new life, for which they had yearned and prayed so many years.
+The gospel of the new life, was the gospel of co-operative labor. The
+wonderful strength and effectiveness of the co-operative farm movement,
+to lift the laborer from conditions of ignorance and poverty, to those
+of financial independence, comfort and refinement; was practically
+demonstrated, a thousand times over. To the people, each demonstration
+was an ever growing source of astonishment and delight. The enthusiasm
+aroused, burning with the fires of a religious zeal, irresistibly drew
+them into the ranks of this powerful organization. With rapidly
+increasing numbers, it swept over the land with the force and fury of a
+great tidal wave! In its track, on the ruins of the competitive system,
+there was established, the reign of co-operative peace and plenty, the
+social and political millennium.
+
+Among the leaders of the Crusade, assembled at Washington, George and
+Gertrude Gerrish were especially prominent. To them was assigned the
+task of organizing the lecturing or missionary bureau of the Crusade;
+its trained force of traveling educators. The good work accomplished by
+this force, was another well earned tribute to their extraordinary skill
+as organizers. As well fitted for the responsible duties; George Gaylord
+and Honora Eloise Houghton, having become inseparable friends, engaged
+lovers, and finally a well-mated, conjugal couple; were placed in
+charge of the traveling educators on the Pacific Slope. So eloquently
+and effectively did they labor in this wide field, that throughout its
+length and breadth, they became very popular, winning hosts of friends
+for themselves and the cause.
+
+Solaris Farm and village, the working center of the movement, soon
+doubled many times, its territory and population. It became an important
+manufacturing center, which made an ideal home for the National
+Co-operative Farm School; a normal school, which every year graduated
+teachers by the score. The history of Solaris as the initial farm made
+it so famous, that thousands of enthusiastic co-operators annually visit
+it. It is the business of the reception committee appointed by the
+normal school, to receive, entertain and instruct these visitors.
+
+Gilbert Gerrish, true to his arisen sweetheart, and to his own peculiar
+purpose in life; declined to leave Solaris, with his parents. Indeed, he
+was so universally beloved by its young people, that they could not, and
+would not give him up! To the visiting stranger, he seems by far the
+most popular and the most highly honored young man in the village. This
+distinguished consideration, he has rightfully and honestly earned.
+Happy himself, in generously using his rare gifts for making other
+people happy!
+
+Thus endeth the story of Solaris Farm. May its purposes haunt the minds
+of its readers, like the memories of some prophetic dream, which may not
+be obliterated, which can not be forgotten.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+A FEW POINTERS FROM THE PEN OF THE REVIEWER.
+
+
+Solaris Farm is the title of a new book "with a purpose." In fact it is
+a book with many purposes. While the author writes intelligently and
+forcefully upon stirpiculture, education, invention, hygiene,
+sanitation, moral, physical and mental growth and culture, and injects
+many new, beautiful and practical thoughts into each of these subjects,
+his chief theme is unselfish co-operation, his chief purpose is to
+exhibit the benefits, moral, physical, social and financial, that will
+be showered upon the human family when they become wise enough to cease
+competing with each other, and progressive enough to begin co-operating.
+
+The story is the logical development of the following situation:
+
+Fern Fenwick, an heiress to a vast estate, had promised her father
+before his death to use a good share of the Fenwick millions in
+bettering the condition of the race. Her first experiment is a
+co-operative farm of about five thousand acres, whereon about two
+hundred and fifty families settle and work out the many problems which
+the author desires to discuss.
+
+In all of these operations she has the able assistance of Fillmore
+Flagg, a farmer's son, who, having seen his father and dozens of his old
+neighbors crushed in spirit and broken in fortune by the resistless
+trend of events under the competitive system with all its waste of
+misdirected energy, has become disgusted with the meager results of farm
+work and having by great energy obtained a practical education has
+determined to do something for the alleviation of the miseries of a
+competition crushed society.
+
+He meets Fern Fenwick and is by her employed to superintend the
+co-operative farm.
+
+A very pretty little love story, which the author has told with pleasant
+humor, is the result of their meeting, but the weightier themes with
+which the book is filled are likely to more fully engross the attention
+of the reader.
+
+Co-operative ventures have usually been founded upon some "ism," and
+were held together by its religious or other influence. In the Solaris
+Farm colony a very comprehensive scheme of insurance against accident,
+poverty, sickness and old age is the binding principle. The premium is
+the profit which the co-operators collectively make by producing what
+they want (or by buying at wholesale what they cannot produce) and
+selling the same to themselves individually at regular market rates. The
+excellence of their wares attract many purchasers from the outside and
+the profits resulting therefrom also tend to swell the insurance fund of
+the co-operators.
+
+All kinds of business, and manufacturing are carried on by the
+co-operators in addition to farming. Co-operative thinking solves the
+knottiest problems for the colony, invention flourishes and, once
+started, money flows into their coffer at a fairly satisfactory rate.
+
+Co-operation is the key-word, the essence, the very soul of Solaris
+Farm. All the successes achieved by the characters that people the book
+are the results of co-operative working, thinking and saving. Every
+stockholder lends a hand, and lo! the hours of labor are short and
+delightful; when a disagreeable task must be done, co-operative thinking
+invents a machine which does the work better than a man could do it; the
+dignity of toil is established on a sure foundation, and the statement
+that "muscular effort is a mental demonstration," is verified.
+
+"Will it pay?" is sometimes called "the American question." In Solaris
+Farm the author has successfully undertaken to present an unselfishness
+that will pay--not in the fairy gold of a far-off Heaven, but in the
+coin of the realm, here and now. Leisure for study and recreation;
+books, pictures, objects of beauty and art; better health; longer life;
+the society of delightful people none of whom are competing for the
+lion's share, but all of whom are co-operating for the benefit of the
+community; absence of the fear of poverty; certainty of support in
+sickness and old age;--all these and thousands of other comforts are
+some of the certain wages of unselfishness.
+
+A feature of Solaris Farm which will commend itself to every well-wisher
+of the race is the high estimate which the author places on humanity.
+Man, he says, is the flower and fruit of the planet, its highest and
+best product. To arrive at the highest point possible in his evolution,
+it is necessary for him to be well born and this necessitates happy,
+healthy, prosperous parents and proper environments. To follow out this
+idea to its logical conclusion would be to repeat the author's
+arguments, for he has completely filled the field. The reader is
+referred to the story for the facts proving that unselfish co-operation
+will furnish everything needful for the complete unfoldment of the now
+almost dormant possibilities of human nature.
+
+The pursuit of happiness and the hope of its ultimate possession is the
+motor which induces all human endeavor. No act is ever done except in
+obedience to this law of our nature which compels us to seek pleasure.
+Ignorance of the nature of true pleasure has led us after many a
+will-o'-the-wisp, and our unlearned race has soiled its garments many
+times in error, commonly called "sin." "Sinful pleasures," against which
+our parents, the clergy, and all moral philosophers have warned us, do
+not exist. _There is no pleasure in sin._ Our race beliefs, based upon
+untruth and ignorance, have bequeathed us a heritage of appetites,
+passions and desires which are wrong, and hurtful when gratified.
+
+Among the most hurtful of race beliefs is the fixed idea that labor is a
+curse. Nothing could be further from the truth. As has been aptly said:
+"Art is the expression of a man's joy in his work." Labor--muscular
+exertion, having a definite productive object--is a blessing and a joy
+when the worker is in love with his work. Work is a curse only under the
+competitive system, which by its wasteful methods extends the hours of
+toil beyond the limits of endurance, robs the worker of the full
+benefits of his labor and gives him no time for self-improvement. The
+experience of the stockholders of Solaris Farm shows how the ancient
+curse was removed by unselfish co-operation, and labor crowned with the
+dignity that is its due.
+
+While Solaris Farm was not intended as a propaganda of spiritualism,
+that cult has been introduced with considerable dramatic effect for two
+apparent reasons. The first and least important of these reasons is to
+cater to the ever-growing taste of the reading public for the occult;
+but the second reason is peculiar to the book. In discussing man as the
+most valuable product of the planet, and the relation which the soul
+bears to the body, it became necessary to approach the subject from the
+view-point of one who is in nowise affected by the petty altercations,
+jealousies and strifes of the world; one who knows by experience all the
+hardships of life and its many temptations, but who has also progressed
+beyond the sphere of their influence. The most natural and obvious way
+of obtaining this coveted point of observation was to let the spirit of
+such a noble character as Fennimore Fenwick speak from the fulness of
+his experience, both as mortal and spirit, of the needs of the race, the
+curse of competition, the value of proper environmental conditions for
+perfect motherhood, pre-natal education and adequate training of mind
+and body, such as may not be secured even by the most wealthy in the
+present condition of society, but which would be the heritage of every
+individual in a co-operative community. The utterances of Fennimore
+Fenwick rank with the best thought on these subjects and no person can
+read them without having implanted in his breast a higher regard for his
+race, and a greater solicitude for the material and spiritual unfoldment
+of humanity.
+
+For many years, orators and agitators have vied with each other in
+proclaiming that capital and labor were the two factors of financial
+success. They were and still are mistaken. Within the pages of Solaris
+Farm the reader is given the true formula, which may be algebraically
+stated thus: "Capital + Labor + Brains = Financial Success." Financial
+Success, however is not the complete product of these factors when
+selfishness, greed and wasteful competition are eliminated from the
+equation by the substitution of unselfish co-operation. The happy result
+of the experiment at Solaris Farm must convince the reader of the
+correctness of the formula and the value of the substitution.
+
+In considering the broad field covered by this attractive book; its wide
+departure from the mission of the ordinary novel, its probable use as a
+text-book of advanced thought on true socialism, progressive
+co-operation, a new order of political economy and the ways and means of
+making colony life desirable, successfully coherent, self-supporting and
+practically delightful; the price of Solaris Farm (50 cts, in paper
+covers, $1.25 in cloth binding) will commend itself to the purchaser as
+not only reasonably moderate, but also if he be an interested reader,
+with business intentions, that the large end of the bargain is very much
+in his favor.
+
+Solaris Farm was written by Captain Milan C. Edson, whose military title
+was earned during the great Civil War. He was a farmer and the son of a
+farmer. He enlisted as a private soldier and without influence rose to a
+captaincy by merit and bravery alone. He is a profound thinker, a lover
+of his race and has given many years to the study of social and
+political questions. It has been his desire to found a community where
+his ideas of true success might be wrought out, as an object lesson to
+the world, of the advantages of unselfishness. This pleasure having been
+denied him, he has incorporated his leading ideas in Solaris Farm, in
+the hope that some one more fortunate than himself may be able to
+receive the blessings which must inevitably flow from such a noble life.
+
+
+
+***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SOLARIS FARM***
+
+
+******* This file should be named 31373-8.txt or 31373-8.zip *******
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+<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=ISO-8859-1" />
+<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Solaris Farm, by Milan C. Edson</title>
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+<body>
+<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, Solaris Farm, by Milan C. Edson</h1>
+<pre>
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at <a href = "http://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a></pre>
+<p>Title: Solaris Farm</p>
+<p>       A Story of the Twentieth Century</p>
+<p>Author: Milan C. Edson</p>
+<p>Release Date: February 23, 2010  [eBook #31373]</p>
+<p>Language: English</p>
+<p>Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1</p>
+<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SOLARIS FARM***</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<h4>E-text prepared by David Clarke, Martin Pettit,<br />
+    and the Project Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team<br />
+    (<a href="http://www.pgdp.net/c/">http://www.pgdp.net</a>)<br />
+    from page images generously made available by<br />
+    Internet Archive/American Libraries<br />
+    (<a href="http://www.archive.org/details/americana">http://www.archive.org/details/americana</a>)</h4>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<table border="0" style="background-color: #ccccff;" cellpadding="10">
+  <tr>
+    <td valign="top">
+      Note:
+    </td>
+    <td align="left">
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Internet Archive/American Libraries. See
+      <a href="http://www.archive.org/details/solarisfarm00edsorich">
+      http://www.archive.org/details/solarisfarm00edsorich</a>
+	</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="full" />
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+
+<h1>SOLARIS FARM;</h1>
+
+<h2><span class="smcap">A Story of the Twentieth Century.</span></h2>
+
+<h3>BY</h3>
+
+<h2>MILAN C. EDSON.</h2>
+
+<hr class="smler" />
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Published by the Author</span></h3>
+
+<h4>AT</h4>
+
+<h3>1728 New Jersey Ave., N. W., Washington, D. C.</h3>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">In the Year 1900.</span></h3>
+
+<hr class="smler" />
+
+<h4><span class="smcap">Press work by Byron S. Adams.</span></h4>
+
+<hr />
+
+<div class="center"><img src="images/frontis.jpg" width='551' height='700' alt="Captain Milan C. Edson" /></div>
+
+<h4><span class="smcap">Captain Milan C. Edson.</span></h4>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h4><span class="smcap">Copyright, 1900</span><br />
+<span class="smcap">By MILAN C. EDSON.</span><br />
+<span class="smcap">All Rights Reserved.</span></h4>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>DEDICATION.</h2>
+
+<p>This book, is dedicated to the sons and daughters of the farms of the
+Republic as an expression of the author's realization, that Agricultural
+people constitute a large majority of its working units: That as such,
+its destiny is in the hands of their boys and girls, as its future
+guardians, fathers and mothers: That for the reasons stated, they should
+become its dominant thinkers and leaders: That Agriculture is the true
+basis of industrial and commercial success; hence, it should be made the
+most noble and pleasing of all occupations: That the alarming
+encroachments of land monopoly, and the inability of the small farm to
+meet the expense of using the latest and best machinery, threatens the
+total extinction of all land-owning farmers, and of their consequent
+reduction to the dependent caste of farm laborers: That the isolated
+life and the severe toil of the small farm, has a dangerously depressing
+effect on the minds of its people: That all of these things, seem to
+demand the changes suggested by the contents of this book.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>PREFACE.</h2>
+
+<p>Strong in my convictions that all civilizations are false, which do not
+civilize the lowest units of any social order, I have written Solaris
+Farm as my contribution towards the improvement of agriculturists as a
+class, of the race as a whole; towards the establishment of a truer
+civilization, organized for the purpose of securing the same degree of
+progress for the lowest orders of humanity, which have been or can be
+attained by the highest. In any social or political fabric, wide
+differences of wealth, of education, of refinement in its sub-divisions
+are dangerous, they swiftly lead to the introduction of caste. Caste is
+the dry rot, which, when once established, will surely destroy all
+progress, all vitality, by slowly eating away the social, industrial and
+political life of the nation.</p>
+
+<p>In preparing this book for the press, I wish to acknowledge my
+obligations to the following authors, for much valuable information and
+inspiration: To Elmer Gates, the discoverer of new domains in
+Psychology, the inventor and discoverer of the art of Mentation, the
+founder of the Elmer Gates Laboratory, at Chevy Chase, Maryland: To
+Henry George, the author of "Progress and Poverty:" To Edward Bellamy,
+the author of "Equality," and "Looking Backward:" And lastly to that
+greatest of living Frenchmen, M. Godin, the author of "Social
+Solutions," and the founder of the "Familistere," with its famous
+industrial enterprise, located at the city of Guise, France; the
+grandest co-operative success of the age!</p>
+
+<p>A last word to my readers: Do you wish to join forces with the
+humanitarians? If so, always strive so to educate the people, that they
+may fully understand the true object and purpose of human life; and the
+necessity for the upbuilding of social, industrial and political
+institutions, in harmony with the demands of that purpose. This will
+require unselfish, persistent, co-operative effort and thought. In no
+other way, can you so greatly aid the cause of progress.</p>
+
+<p class="right">MILAN C. EDSON.</p>
+
+<p>No. 1728 N. J. Ave., N. W.<br />
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Washington, D. C., Sept. 1st, 1900.</span></p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CONTENTS.</h2>
+
+<hr class="tiny" />
+
+<table summary="CONTENTS">
+  <tr>
+    <td colspan="2" class="left"><span class="smcap">Chapter</span></td>
+    <td><span class="smcap">Page</span></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>1.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">A Farmer's Son With Progressive Tendencies</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_1">1</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>2.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Outlines of a Great Problem</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_4">4</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>3.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">An Advertisement Introduces the Heroine</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_9">9</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>4.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Story of a Stone and What Came After</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_10">10</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>5.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Fairy Fern Cottage</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_27">27</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>6.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Fennimore Fenwick</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_34">34</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>7.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">An Alaska Kindergarten</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_37">37</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>8.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">An Interview With the "Fairies"</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_41">41</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>9.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Problem vs. A Good Man Who Is As Rich As He Is Noble</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_49">49</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>10.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Reaping of the Death Angel</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_53">53</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>11.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Martina Mine</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_58">58</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>12.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Spirit and Mortal&mdash;Father and Daughter</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_61">61</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>13.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Questions and Answers</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_63">63</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>14.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Ethics of Planetary Evolution</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_71">71</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>15.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Co-operative Farm As a Factor in Social Evolution</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_75">75</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>16.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Fillmore and Fern</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_87">87</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>17.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Solaris Farm</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_93">93</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>18.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Club Life at Solaris</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_112">112</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>19.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Fenwick Hall</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_121">121</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>20.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Beginning of a New Era</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_133">133</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>21.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">His Wooing Prospers While Our Hero Enjoys His First Vacation</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_141">141</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>22.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">A Surprise Party and Reception Combined</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_150">150</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>23.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Formation of Popular Science Clubs</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_160">160</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>24.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">A Twentieth Century Love Letter</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_162">162</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>25.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Reply</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_171">171</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>26.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Fern Fenwick Arrives at Solaris</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_179">179</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>27.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Festival</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_185">185</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>28.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Oration</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_187">187</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>29.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Story of Gilbert Gerrish; or, the Strength Of the Weakest Unit</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_216">216</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>30.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Our Hero and Heroine Discuss Agricultural Statistics</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_227">227</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>31.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Discussion Grows More Interesting</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_248">248</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>32.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Social Solutions</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_256">256</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>33.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Solaris Scrip</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_270">270</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>34.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Insurance Offered by Co-operative Farming</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_273">273</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>35.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Mothers' Club</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_287">287</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>36.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Co-operative Farm as a Factor in the Capital and Labor Problem</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_299">299</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>37.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Co-operative Farm Triumphant</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_313">313</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>38.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Kindergarten at Solaris</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_327">327</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>39.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">An Unexpected Visitor</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_346">346</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>40.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The Coming Era of Good Roads</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_362">362</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>41.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Co-operative Ethics</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_371">371</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>42.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Rural Life Under the Reign of Co-operation</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_387">387</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>43.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">A Twentieth Century Honeymoon</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_416">416</a></td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td>44.</td>
+    <td class="left">&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">The New Crusade</span></td>
+    <td><a href="#Page_423">423</a></td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p>
+
+<h1>SOLARIS FARM.</h1>
+
+<h2>A STORY OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY.</h2>
+
+<hr class="tiny" />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER I.</h2>
+
+<h3>A FARMER'S SON WITH PROGRESSIVE TENDENCIES.</h3>
+
+<p>One bright summer afternoon, near the close of the month of August,
+1905, two young college chums, Fillmore Flagg and George Gaylord, just
+met after a long separation, were seated on a rustic bench near a
+well-appointed mountain hotel. The superb view before them was well
+worthy of their half-hour's silent admiration. Full one thousand feet
+above the sea stands "Hotel Mount Meenahga" in the heart of the
+"Shawangunks," a mountain range in the state of New York, famed for its
+scenic beauty, cool dry air, pure water and commanding elevation.
+Looking northward a most charming landscape presents itself, a wonderful
+group of mountain ranges, stretching for seventy-five miles from near
+the Delaware Water-gap eastward to and including the Alpine peaks of the
+famous Catskills. Within this lovely semicircle lie the highlands of
+Ulster, Sullivan and Orange, lifted like seats in some vast
+amphitheater, tier above tier, while nearer a beautiful mingling of
+villages and hamlets, broad fields, green woods and silvery
+water-courses, constitutes a picture of enchanting beauty&mdash;a picture
+constantly changed,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span> shaded and intensified by broad patches of moving
+shadow and sunlight from a great fleet of fleecy clouds sailing so
+swiftly, so silently and so majestically across the summer sky.</p>
+
+<p>"How exquisitely beautiful!" murmured Fillmore Flagg, "I wish I had my
+camera that I might make it captive, carry it hence and keep it, a rare
+token of beauty, a source of joy forever."</p>
+
+<p>At this point, a brief description of the young men will serve by way of
+a further introduction.</p>
+
+<p>Fillmore Flagg was fully six feet in height, though his compact,
+well-rounded figure made him seem less tall; his straight, muscular
+limbs were in harmony with his deep chest and symmetrical shoulders. His
+rather large but beautifully turned neck and throat rose straight from
+the spinal column, firmly supporting a noble head, everywhere evenly and
+smoothly developed. His thick, soft brown hair, worn rather short, was
+inclined to curl, giving to the outlines of the head a still more heroic
+size. His forehead was large, full, dome shaped and remarkably smooth;
+the brows, finely penciled and well arched, were matched in color and
+slenderness by a short moustache which seemed a shade or two darker than
+the hair. His eyes were large, very expressive, of a soft dark brown,
+bright and flashing with emotion, full of pensive light when partially
+shaded by their thick silken lashes; his smiling glance possessed a
+curiously fascinating magnetic charm. The attractiveness of the entire
+face and neck was intensified by the wonderful marble-like smoothness of
+skin which accompanies that rare, pale olive tint of complexion. A soft
+Alpine hat and a neat business suit of dark clothing completes this
+picture of the personal appearance of Fillmore Flagg. Later on we shall
+learn to know<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span> him better by his genial temperament, mental and moral
+characteristics.</p>
+
+<p>George Gaylord was above medium height, slender and pale, slightly
+inclined to stoop; wore glasses, and a thick black moustache which
+entirely concealed his thin lips. His heavy growth of long, coal black
+hair was naturally bent on falling over his high white forehead. His
+large black eyes were deeply set under heavy dark brows, more square
+than arched. His straight nose and smoothly shaven chin were set in line
+with his high square forehead. While both face and figure suggested the
+student, a tall silk hat and a square cut, closely buttoned black frock
+coat, stamped him at once as a clerical student.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell me, George," said Fillmore Flagg, "how have you fared since we
+parted, and what are your ambitions and plans for the future?"</p>
+
+<p>"There is not much to tell you, Fillmore. As you know, when I left
+college, my mother was a widow with a very limited income, which made it
+difficult to meet my college expenses. Mother had set her heart on my
+entering the ministry. Her only brother, a childless widower, and a man
+of some wealth and great influence in the church affairs of his
+prosperous New England town, promised his assistance. Behold the result!
+I have just graduated with fair honors from a prominent theological
+institute. I am to take charge, this coming November, of a large church
+and congregation in the manufacturing city where my uncle resides. Uncle
+George, for whom I was named, is now with my mother visiting friends in
+New York. They have kindly selected as my future wife, my uncle's
+favorite niece and prospective heiress to his wealth. When last we met,
+four years ago, Martha Merritt was a sweet little miss in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span> short
+dresses; but gave promise, even then, of unfolding into a lovely woman.
+To tell you the truth, under the circumstances, I am more than half
+prepared to fall in love with her when we meet again. However ambitious
+my day dreams in the past may have been, a not unkindly fate has woven
+the web of destiny for me and fixed my future life work without much
+effort on my part; and yet I am quite content to have it so. Two weeks
+ago I left the heat and bustle of the great city for a month's rest in
+this quiet place. I little dreamed of meeting you here; I need not say I
+am delighted: I am, thoroughly so. I find you looking your best, yet I
+can easily perceive you have been hard at work as usual. I do not
+believe you could possibly keep still and rest, even for one short week,
+let the inducement to do so be ever so great. And now, my dear Fillmore,
+since I have, so to speak, brought myself up to date for your benefit,
+may I ask for a similar service on your part?"</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER II.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE OUTLINES OF A GREAT PROBLEM.</h3>
+
+<p>Fillmore Flagg, seemingly self absorbed, remained silent for some
+moments, softly stroking his chin with his strong, shapely hand, his
+dreamy eyes with far-off vision intent, apparently noting details in the
+hazy borders of the distant landscape. At last, turning to his friend
+with a hearty hand clasp he said: "George Gaylord, I congratulate you;
+your future is bright; you deserve it, your mother deserves it. The
+fates have been very generous with<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span> you. I am glad you are content to
+accept the good things of life which they bring to you.</p>
+
+<p>"As for myself, my lines of life are cast in swift waters. My
+environments, in their reaction upon me from within, seem to develop a
+determined will to wrench from the rocks of destiny by ceaseless and
+persistent effort, whatever gifts I am to possess or enjoy. Work I must.
+Obstacles seem only to stimulate my ambition to overcome them. Yet I am
+passionately fond of the beautiful; poetry, music and art in all the
+loveliness of its varied forms; they affect me profoundly. This poetic
+side of my nature I inherit from my dear, devoted mother&mdash;my highest
+ideal of all that is good, lovely and angelic in woman. Sadly and often
+have I missed her loving tenderness, her watchful care, her beautiful
+smile. The shadowy Angel of Death claimed her and bore her from my sight
+when I was but four years old. Young as I was at that time, this
+beautiful world has never seemed quite so bright to me since.</p>
+
+<p>"My father, Fayette Flagg, was a noble man of sterling worth. He
+belonged to a class of thrifty, hard-working, pioneer farmers, on the
+broad, fertile prairies of the state of Nebraska. Until the death of my
+mother he was happy and prosperous, hopeful, helpful and brave. After
+that great blow came to him, he recovered slowly, as from a long, severe
+illness and never again was quite so courageous and strong, or as
+hopeful as before.</p>
+
+<p>"With the advent of the last decade of the nineteenth century a feeling
+of foreboding unrest seemed to brood over the western farmer: blight and
+drouth destroyed his best crops just when they seemed to promise most;
+farm stock had to be reduced. The good years were few, the bad years
+were many. The<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span> great strain of carrying a large outfit of expensive
+agricultural machinery which on a small farm could be used with profit
+only from ten to forty days in the year, began to be felt. The debts,
+incurred by the purchase of the machinery, were growing steadily larger.
+With each renewal of the mortgage on the farm, came the demand for a
+bonus and a higher rate of interest. Meanwhile the price of land and of
+all farm products kept on falling, falling steadily year after year.
+Only taxes and freight rates from farm to market kept up. High rates of
+interest and of freight swallowed up everything and seemed to accelerate
+the terrible shrinkage of values. My father found, to his amazement,
+that his farm was now mortgaged for more than it would sell for under
+the hammer. He gave up the struggle in despair. The savings of a
+lifetime, his health, strength and courage all exhausted; his homestead
+and farm sold from under him; he lost all hope and in a few short weeks
+died, a broken-hearted man. I went to him a few months before the end: I
+tried all in my power to save him, but alas! I could do nothing but bury
+his body beside that of my mother and come away, filled with the
+determination of solving the most difficult problem of a lifetime&mdash;a
+problem that lies at the very foundation of the permanency of this
+republic. 'How to keep the farm lands of America in the hands of the
+native farmers of this and the coming generations? How to help them to
+help themselves?' The decree has gone forth. The small farm and farmer
+must go. They are doomed. A great wave of land monopoly, rolled up by a
+large class of very shrewd, far-seeing capitalists, is even now sweeping
+across the continent. Seventy-five years hence only a pauperized
+peasantry of ignorant farm laborers,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span> bound to the soil as hopelessly as
+the slave to the master, will coin their lives of ceaseless, unrequited
+toil to swell the rent roll of the non-resident landowner, who, as lord
+of the domain, through his heartless agent, will exact his tribute to
+the uttermost farthing. Must the sons and daughters of the farms of this
+republic come to the bitter heritage of such a life? Surely! We have
+already seen the beginning of the end! The sad case of my father can be
+duplicated a hundred times or more in almost every county of our western
+states. States that are incalculably rich in their magnificent domain of
+broad acres of the most fertile land the sun ever shone upon; capable,
+when permanently placed in the hands of a properly equipped,
+scientifically educated class of people, of producing the food supply of
+the world: but under the blight of the monopoly system, history will
+repeat itself. Our agricultural interests will languish and wither;
+dependent manufactures, and all branches of exchange and commerce, must,
+in time, follow. What then will happen to society? To government of both
+state and nation? In the face of this appalling situation, how
+stupendous the problem! By what effort can a great counter tidal-wave be
+set in motion upon whose crest the salt and salvation of the republic,
+the sons and daughters of American farms, may be carried safely to the
+permanent heritage of the soil they till? As in the past, so in the
+future must we look to them for our true reformers, leaders, thinkers
+and statesmen. They are endowed by birth, by constant association in
+youth with soil and sunlight, fields and grass, green meadows and mossy
+brooks and, best of all, doubly endowed by the inbreathing of ozone
+laden breezes from mountain and forest, with that rare <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span>combination of
+nerve, moral, mental and physical stamina, courage and patriotism which
+is necessary to preserve this republic and to keep it, ever and always,
+a model of progressive excellence for all the nations of the earth. This
+means the embodiment by them of more and better mind, that they may do
+better, wiser and more dominant thinking; be able to comprehend the sum
+of human knowledge to such an extent that they may add to it; to so
+understand their lives, and their relations to the Universe around them,
+that they may become masters of themselves and their environments&mdash;a law
+unto themselves&mdash;fitting them for a perfect citizenship of a perfected
+republic. This most desirable of all accomplishments, requires better
+surroundings, more leisure and opportunity for self-improvement, more
+money, shorter hours of more remunerative labor&mdash;labor transformed from
+a hated drudgery to a desirable occupation. Behold, friend Gaylord, you
+have before you the outlines of the problem. Can you suggest anything
+towards its solution?"</p>
+
+<p>"I can suggest nothing," said George Gaylord; "You have stated the case
+with the clearness and eloquence of a Henry George. If what you say is
+true, the problem is a very serious one. But are you quite sure the
+facts will fully warrant your conclusions? If so, what are your plans
+and what have you been doing towards working out this puzzling question?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh yes!" said Fillmore Flagg, "I am very sure of my position. The more
+I study the question, the firmer my conviction that I have understated
+the case instead of overstating it. I am studying the agricultural
+question from every possible standpoint and I propose to make it a life
+work. Every branch<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span> of science may aid me; I must master at least a
+portion of each. Since we left college I have become fairly proficient
+in surveying and civil engineering; have devoted considerable time to
+photography; I am classed as a skilled electrician; I have thoroughly
+mastered agricultural chemistry and several of the more important
+branches of that interesting and most wonderful science. As you know, I
+am very fond of mechanics and of all kinds of machinery. I could not
+rest until I had gained a practical knowledge of all kinds of tools and
+learned how to repair or construct most kinds of machinery. Two months
+ago I completed a general course of study at the Philadelphia School of
+Industrial Art, which, for the especial work I have in view, I consider
+by far the most beneficial and practicable of all my acquirements. I am
+now resting, cogitating and waiting for the golden opportunity which,
+sooner or later, must come, to enable me to commence my work."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER III.</h2>
+
+<h3>AN ADVERTISEMENT INTRODUCES THE HEROINE.</h3>
+
+<p>"By the way, I have something to show you. I clipped this advertisement
+from a leading New York daily paper this morning, and have read it
+carefully many times. Somehow, I have an abiding conviction that it will
+lead me to the high road, on the way towards the successful solution of
+my problem. I am going to apply in person."</p>
+
+<p>Full of curiosity, George Gaylord took the clipping and slowly read aloud:</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span></p><blockquote><p>"<span class="smcap">Wanted</span>: A skilled mechanic, qualified to act in the capacity of
+landscape gardener and agricultural chemist. Applicant must be a
+strong, healthy young man, of good habits, pleasing address; with a
+general knowledge of business methods, and an excellent moral
+character. Qualifications must be well attested by recommendations
+from reliable parties. A graduate of the Philadelphia School of
+Industrial Art is preferred. Salary liberal. Apply in person at the
+office of</p>
+
+<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Bitterwood &amp; Barnard</span>, Atty's.,<br />
+&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Atlantic Building, Washington, D. C."</p></blockquote>
+
+<p>"This is curious! It seems to point directly to you, Fillmore. I do
+wonder in what peculiar capacity you are to act, and who your real
+employer is to be? I shall be full of unsatisfied curiosity until I know the sequel."</p>
+
+<p>At this moment George Gaylord was suddenly interrupted by an
+unlooked-for gust of wind whirling around the shoulders of the big rock
+standing above and behind them. The fluttering paper slipped from his
+fingers and went sailing away over the tree tops, down the mountain
+side, with that erratic up and down, eddying motion peculiar to run
+away, fly away papers. In an instant both young men were upon their
+feet, intently watching the uncertain flight of the clipping. A few
+moments later it fell to the ground, just at the feet of two ladies who,
+with heads protected from the sun by large parasols, were slowly walking
+around the bend of the broad, well kept road, winding down the mountain
+side. The younger of the two ladies picked up the advertisement,
+hurriedly scanned it, and then raised her eyes to discover the two young
+men as probable owners of the truant paper.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" said George Gaylord, "I recognize those<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span> people. It is Miss
+Fenwick and her travelling companion. Come along Fillmore, let us join
+them at once and claim your lost clipping. The opportunity for an
+introduction to two very interesting ladies, who are among the most
+noted guests of the hotel, is too good to be lost."</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly they hurried down the steep path that joined the road near
+where the ladies were still waiting, at a point full three hundred feet below.</p>
+
+<p>Approaching, with hats in hand, George Gaylord said: "Allow me, Miss
+Fenwick, to introduce to you my friend and college chum, Fillmore Flagg:
+for a peculiar purpose of his own he wishes to regain possession of that
+flighty paper which, fortunately for him, the prank playing wind carried
+to your feet but a moment ago."</p>
+
+<p>With a slight inclination of her queenly head, she turned with a
+dazzling smile to meet the inquiring glance of Fillmore Flagg. In a
+clear musical voice, full of thrilling cadence and power, she said: "Mr.
+Flagg, if you are particularly interested in this paper, I am very sure
+I am quite happy to meet you, and take pleasure in returning it to you
+now; I trust that we may have the opportunity of becoming better
+acquainted before you leave these lovely mountains." Turning to her
+companion she continued: "Permit me, gentlemen, to introduce my friend
+and companion, Mrs. Bainbridge; Mr. George Gaylord, who is just entering
+the ministry, and his college friend, Mr. Fillmore Flagg."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bainbridge responded with a pleasant smile. She was a tall, well
+formed, well preserved woman of forty; full of a quiet dignity, with an
+air of refinement that fitted her like a garment. Her heavy dark hair,
+coiled high on her shapely head, was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span> just slightly silvered with gray
+and seemed to be a fitting foil to her large melancholy black eyes&mdash;eyes
+that from their slumbering depths seemed to impress the beholder with
+suggestions of some mysterious power, gleaming messages, like beacon
+flashes, from her inner life. With her becoming dress of rich, dark
+cloth, gloves and parasol to match, she looked the cultured lady to perfection.</p>
+
+<p>Turning her steps up the mountain, Fern Fenwick said: "Gentlemen, as it
+is near the hour for supper, we had best return to the hotel at once. I
+think too, by this time the mail from the station must have arrived."
+Fillmore Flagg was at her side in an instant, choosing the side opposite
+the parasol, which gave him a clear view of her charming profile. George
+Gaylord and Mrs. Bainbridge followed a little more slowly. The
+conversation soon became animated.</p>
+
+<p>While they are thus occupied let us try to get a more complete picture
+of Miss Fern Fenwick. Her round, exquisitely proportioned figure was of
+medium height, straight as an arrow, full of grace with every movement.
+Her quick, firm, elastic step was Youth personified: a charming maiden,
+she, of twenty summers. The artistic outlines of her plump arms and
+shoulders, beautifully modelled bust, throat and neck, so admirably
+proportioned, would have satisfied the most carping critic; poet or
+painter, he would have pronounced them a dream of perfect symmetry. Her
+queenly shaped head, so gracefully poised, like a clear cut cameo, was a
+poem of intellectual development on lines of rarest beauty. Her thick,
+glossy hair of dark chestnut brown, fine as spun silk and inclined to a
+wavy crimp, was artistically coiled in a most becoming style; small ears
+of perfect shape, and transparently pink, were set close<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span> to the head.
+The curve of the brow, in perfect line with the pleasing oval of both
+cheek and chin; a Grecian nose and cherub mouth completed the perfect
+contour of a face and head of marvellous beauty&mdash;a beauty made more
+brilliant by large, lustrous eyes of blended sapphire and amethyst,
+flashing jewels of deep violet blue, so clearly expressing the varying
+emotions by their ever changing tints of sparkling light. Her dress, a
+close fitting gown of rich, soft, silver gray material, was stylishly
+made, with a narrow line of lovely lace at the throat; perfect fitting
+gloves of the same shade of gray, with a parasol to match, completed a
+costume that seemed to bring out and intensify a most charming
+complexion of pale pink and white, faultlessly smooth and transparently
+pure: at once indicative and prophetic of a strong vital temperament,
+perfect mental and physical health; pure, highly cultured mind and a
+wealth of personal magnetism&mdash;that silent charm of mysterious
+potency&mdash;pervading and surrounding her like the perfume of sweet
+flowers, winning the unsought admiration, friendship and fidelity of all
+who came within the radiance of her powerful magnetic aura. All this,
+and more, Fillmore Flagg perceived and felt. He walked and talked as one
+in a dream. Never before had he met so fair a vision of female
+loveliness, with grace so winning, gestures so perfect and voice so
+musical. His heart, overflowing with a new ecstatic emotion, paid silent
+homage to this queenly creature. He was lost in admiration. Swallowed up
+and absorbed by the first incoming wave of a great love. He was lifted
+out of himself, above and beyond all gross things of earth, into a
+heaven of pure delight. His better nature was thrilled and profoundly
+moved. He felt that in the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span> presence of this pure, angelic woman he
+could never again do an unworthy act. A life work, up to the standard of
+his highest ideal, was a tribute of devotion he would willingly lay at her feet.</p>
+
+<p>All too soon for Fillmore Flagg the moments flew by. Almost before he
+was aware of it they were ascending the steps of the hotel. Pausing on
+the broad veranda for a moment before separating, Fern Fenwick said:
+"Gentlemen, Mrs. Bainbridge and myself have planned for a carriage drive
+to-morrow to Sam's Point. We have two seats in our conveyance at your
+disposal and would be delighted to have you accompany us. May we hope
+that you both can come with us?"</p>
+
+<p>Fillmore Flagg and George Gaylord both eagerly accepted the invitation,
+the ladies passed on to their rooms, while the young men turned their
+steps once more to the rustic bench to enjoy the magnificent sunset view
+of the landscape they had so much admired earlier in the day.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY OF A STONE AND WHAT CAME AFTER.</h3>
+
+<p>Sam's Point, the crowning backbone of the highest mountain in the
+Shawangunk range, bends away from the general course of its fellows
+apparently for the especial purpose of giving the mountain climber, by
+its isolation, a commanding view in almost every direction except to the
+north-east. For miles in extent the flat, rocky top of this crown forms
+a promenade of magnificent proportions up amid the clouds.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span> In shape it
+is a long, slender triangle, about three miles from its base westward to
+the point where its highest altitude is reached, two thousand three
+hundred and forty feet above tide-water. Cradled in its rocky bosom,
+near the base of the triangle, lies a crystal lake&mdash;one hundred and
+fifty acres of sparkling water. At this point the promenade is fully
+three-fourths of a mile wide, gradually narrowing to a width of less
+than one hundred feet at the extreme point. The long battlemented sides
+of this lofty triangle, like some mighty fortress, grim and frowning,
+are protected and supported by perpendicular cliffs of black rock,
+rising like some bastioned wall of terrifying proportions, two hundred
+feet above the shoulder of the mountain. In a sheltered nook, near the
+point, about five hundred feet below the base of the cliffs, stands the
+Sam's Point Hotel, scarcely more than a cottage in size. Here Fern
+Fenwick's party left the carriage. Taking the narrow, zig-zag pathway
+that led to the cliffs and often pausing to admire the immensity and
+grandeur of the black rock palisades towering so far above them, they
+soon found themselves under the nose of the point of rocks. Entering the
+crevice in the cliffs known as "The Chimney Stairway," they commenced
+the steep and toilsome climb to the summit; Fillmore Flagg taking the
+lead and assisting Miss Fenwick, George Gaylord performing the same
+service for Mrs. Bainbridge; fifteen minutes later they stood, almost
+breathless, upon the summit, the blue sky all about them, a precipice on
+either hand where shimmering, giddy space seemed to yawn so frightfully
+near. Meanwhile a strong, buffeting wind tugged at ribbons and capes,
+hats and bonnets, so furiously that walking was hazardous; it gave one
+such an<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span> uneasy sensation of giddiness and unstable equilibrium
+generally, that the temptation to fly over the edge of the cliff was
+hard to resist. A huge egg-shaped boulder, twenty-five feet in height
+and as large as a house, poised rather unsteadily on its rounded base,
+was quite near and gave promise of protection from the violence of the
+wind. With one accord our party scrambled towards it, the ladies
+clinging tightly to their escorts with one hand, a firm grip on hat or
+bonnet with the other. Thus sheltered, and more at ease, they slowly
+drank in the glorious vision which greeted the eye on every hand.
+Looking down as from a balloon, at the foot of the mountain, on the
+north side, the eye was charmed by the length and beauty of the Rondout
+Valley, through which ran the Delaware and Hudson Canal, and the Rondout
+River. For miles on either side of canal and river the valley was made
+more lovely by its checkered farms and gleaming white villages. Directly
+at the foot of the mountain on the south side, the broader valley of the
+Wallkill presented an equally beautiful and diversified picture of farm,
+hamlet and village. Beyond these, in every direction save to the
+north-east, vast stretches of country lay spread out like a map; the
+mountains far and near, so dwarfed as to give to the surface the
+appearance of billowy plains, almost level where they approached the
+edge of the horizon. The wonderful extent and scope of the view was
+bounded by the line of the horizon, at least one hundred miles distant.
+Three-fourths of this sweeping circle responded to the unaided vision,
+disclosing the blue hills and hazy mountain peaks located in five
+states: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut and
+Massachusetts, altogether presenting in its <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span>immensity a landscape as
+variegated and charming as it was wondrously beautiful and attractive&mdash;a
+marvellous picture of indescribable loveliness never to be forgotten.</p>
+
+<p>"How inspiringly magnificent!" said Fillmore Flagg: "All the sublimity
+of my nature is satisfied."</p>
+
+<p>"And I," said Fern Fenwick, "am too profoundly impressed to talk. I
+would that I could spend hours here in silent admiration."</p>
+
+<p>"I think," said Mrs. Bainbridge, "that we would better move further back
+on the rocky summit where doubtless, sheltered seats may be found, then
+we can all enjoy this most wonderful of views at our leisure and with
+some degree of comfort."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said George Gaylord, "that will be ever so much nicer."</p>
+
+<p>"Stop a moment," said Fern Fenwick, who for some moments had been
+examining the huge boulder which sheltered them, "Have you noticed the
+curious formation of this immense stone? How many hundreds of tons it
+may weigh, I hardly dare guess. Geologically speaking, it is a 'stranger
+rock,' not in any way related to the rocks of this mountain, nor of the
+mountains near here. It is a mammoth conglomerate of such an
+interestingly curious compound and of such flinty hardness. At the time
+of its formation enormous pressure, coupled with the most intense heat,
+must have molded this strange mass together. Coarse and fine gravel,
+smooth, round pebbles, from the size of a pigeon's egg to that of a
+two-hundred-pound boulder, are all jumbled together in great confusion,
+and so firmly cemented in this immense globular mass of that peculiar,
+tenacious clay of greenish gray color, which forms so large a part of
+the drift formation, and which is so widely <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span>distributed over the face
+of our globe&mdash;that strange, unaccountable, isolated and unrelated
+formation, which still remains an unsolved puzzle by our best
+geologists. I wish you to observe the long sides of this strange rock,
+especially where the exposed sides of the pebbles have been worn down
+smooth and even with the clay&mdash;how they are marked and striated by
+shallow grooves, all running in one direction as straight as though
+graven by rule. Is it possible that any freak or flood of the glacial
+period could have floated this huge rock to its resting place on the
+very summit of this high mountain, almost two thousand five hundred feet
+above the level of the sea? Oh! tell me, ye listening mortals, or ye
+winged winds that blow and pull my ribbons so! whence came this stranger
+rock? how formed? and how were its smooth, worn sides so systematically engraved?"</p>
+
+<p>Fern Fenwick closed her series of queries with a gradually rising pitch
+and inflection in the ringing tones of her clear, musical voice. With
+figure erect, eyes flashing, cheeks glowing and hands uplifted, she
+seemed the personification of some priestess of science. Fillmore Flagg
+and George Gaylord gazed at her with the admiration of amazement. Mrs. Bainbridge exclaimed:</p>
+
+<p>"Why Fern Fenwick! How you do go on with such nonsense, to be sure. No
+doubt these gentlemen, from this time forward, will look at you as some
+scientific freak or geological professor of the female persuasion, but
+recently escaped from the walls of some famous college!"</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Bainbridge," said Fillmore Flagg, "of course we understand that
+you were joking in what you said just now: that you really admire the
+terse,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span> clear, and wonderfully complete description of this strange rock
+by Miss Fenwick, quite as much as we do." Turning to Fern Fenwick, he
+continued: "I believe, Miss Fenwick, that I can throw some light on the
+puzzling questions you have so poetically propounded."</p>
+
+<p>"Pray do tell us, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick; "I can't remember when
+I was so excited with interest on any subject before."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," said Fillmore Flagg: "That curiously able and intellectual
+man, Mr. Ignatius Donnelly, in his very interesting book called
+'Ragnarok,' or 'The Age of Fire and Gravel,' puts forth a most
+remarkable theory regarding the drift formation, to the truth of which
+this huge rock seems to bear witness. The theory, briefly stated, is as
+follows: A great many ages ago, when this globe of ours was still in the
+period of cataclysms, rolling through space around the sun, it came in
+contact with a portion of the end of the tail of some enormous comet,
+sweeping through the universe on its erratic course. This great boulder
+is a sample of the component parts of that fiery tail, which smote the
+exposed face of the earth so terribly with the drift deposit at that
+time of dire disaster. The age of fire and gravel, surely! This curious
+clay, now of such flinty hardness, was at one time the exceedingly fine
+dust of the comet, cohering, collecting and embedding its mixture of
+pebbles and gravel by the heat and pressure of the friction caused by
+its incalculably swift passage through space for periods of uncounted
+ages. Remember that the heat of all drift material in the tail of the
+comet was greatly intensified by the explosion of accompanying gases as
+they came in contact with the atmosphere of our earth. All<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span> inflammable
+material on the face of the globe, which was exposed at the time of its
+passage through the tail of the comet, was burned up: both earth and sky
+were on fire! Fortunately our flying globe made a quick passage, thus it
+happened that large portions of its unexposed surface wholly escaped
+this terrible downpour of fire and gravel, and the absence of all drift
+deposit on these places is logically accounted for. The atmosphere, so
+heated during that awful period, drank up the waters of the earth&mdash;then
+came the floods, as the waters fell again. Then followed the reaction
+period of extreme cold, snow and ice&mdash;the glacial period. This
+particular rock, while following in the train of its parent comet,
+though lagging many thousands of miles behind, still, being so very
+large, moved with accelerated speed towards the comet's head, passing on
+its way countless millions of smaller particles, whose cutting edges
+scored these grooves. On entering the earth's atmosphere, on account of
+its great size, this boulder, through the law of attraction, quickly
+moved to the outermost fringe of the comet's tail nearest the earth,
+therefore was the first to alight on the top of this mountain, far away
+from all smaller drift material.</p>
+
+<p>"I hope, Miss Fenwick, that my brief and rather speculative answers to
+your questions, reasoning as I did, from Mr. Donnelly's point of view,
+may prove at least in a measure satisfactory."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick, "your answers to my questions
+have all been very ingenious: equally interesting and satisfactory,
+especially as to how this mammoth conglomerate came by its grooved lines
+and, later how it managed to find a resting place on this mountain top,
+so far from its kind. Mr. Donnelly's theory of accounting for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span> the
+widely scattered deposits of the drift formation is the most reasonable
+and logical of anything I have ever read or heard. Doubtless, in course
+of time, it may be proven the only true one. I see Mr. Gaylord and Mrs.
+Bainbridge are becoming weary of all this talk about rocks: let us move
+further back from the point in search of more sheltered and comfortable seats."</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly they chose the central path and were soon seated, enjoying
+the changed landscape from a new point of view. However, Mr. Gaylord was
+not yet satisfied and soon proposed a walk to the lake. Mrs. Bainbridge
+was willing but Miss Fenwick had walked enough for one day. A quiet
+enjoyment of her lofty outlook was what she now most desired.</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, Fern," said Mrs. Bainbridge, "Mr. Gaylord will accompany me
+to the lake and we will bring back for lunch some of those very large,
+delicious blueberries, which Mr. Gaylord assures me are growing so
+abundantly around the shores of the lake. You and Mr. Flagg shall remain
+here with the lunch baskets."</p>
+
+<p>This plan was agreed to, and very soon Mrs. Bainbridge and her escort
+had disappeared on their way to the lake. To Fillmore Flagg it seemed a
+long time that Fern Fenwick had been sitting so quietly, apparently
+absorbed in admiring the billowy miles of landscape unrolled so far to
+the southward. In reality, each was thinking of the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick slowly, "will you pardon me for asking
+you some very abrupt questions, or what may seem such when considering
+our brief acquaintance?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly," said Fillmore Flagg, "I hope my replies this time may prove
+as satisfactory as those I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span> gave in regard to the rock. The pardon you
+crave is granted in advance. Pray proceed."</p>
+
+<p>"Tell me, Mr. Flagg, why are you so much interested in that
+advertisement which came to me so unceremoniously yesterday? And again,
+tell me why you are so moved and determined to better the conditions of
+farm life? I suppose you know that I have wealth and leisure at my
+disposal; it may prove that I can be of great assistance to you. This is
+my excuse for asking you for more details in regard to your personal plans."</p>
+
+<p>With a heart filled with hope, Fillmore Flagg began the recital of the
+story he had given to George Gaylord on the terrace bench. With frequent
+glances of encouragement from Fern Fenwick, his inspiration and
+eloquence grew upon him. He gave a masterly statement of the work, his
+preparation, hopes and plans. Delighted beyond measure with the
+undisguised appreciation and approval of this charming woman, whose very
+destiny in the vista of a coming future, seemed to him to be linked in
+some mysterious manner with the success of his most cherished ambitions,
+he cleverly enlarged and perfected the original statement. As he
+concluded, Fern Fenwick rose to her feet with hands extended, her face
+glowing with interested enthusiasm, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Flagg, I most heartily congratulate you on the noble life-work you
+have planned and chosen, I thank you again and again for the valuable
+facts you have placed so confidingly in my possession, in regard to
+yourself and your work. Rest assured my interest and assistance
+henceforth are at your command. You will understand this more clearly
+when I tell you that Bitterwood &amp; Barnard are my attorneys, and the
+advertisement which played such an<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span> important part in bringing us
+together here in these mountains, was drawn up by them for my purposes.
+That it should bring to me a person of your wonderful ability,
+integrity, skill and knowledge, is an almost unhoped for piece of good
+fortune. You are the one, of all others, most eminently fitted to help
+me to a successful solution of my problem, which you have so admirably
+stated. Hereafter I am your debtor. I hope to prove a not unworthy
+employer, or, to put it more pleasantly, an interested co-worker. Will
+you do me the favor of considering yourself as pledged from this moment
+to take up my work? Go at once to my attorneys in Washington, ask them
+for a letter of introduction to me, that you may get more complete
+details of my plans and work, saying not a word of our present
+acquaintance. I will furnish you with a check on my Washington bankers,
+with which to defray your expenses. To-morrow, in company with Mrs.
+Bainbridge, I go to my summer home on the Hudson near Newburgh, where
+letters will reach me. This is the twenty-eighth of August; on the fifth
+of September, at noon meet me in the station at Newburgh. Come prepared
+to devote a week at the least in discussing the scope and plan of our
+work, devising ways and means etc. I very much desire that you have an
+interview with my father, I know he will be pleased with you. Do these
+arrangements suit your convenience? Do they meet your entire approval?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am greatly elated," said Fillmore Flagg, "at this my golden
+opportunity of commencing what you have so kindly named as 'our' work,
+under such auspicious circumstances. I thank you, Miss Fenwick, more
+than words can tell, for your confidence in my integrity and ability, I
+will do my best to retain that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span> confidence. I am ready to start for
+Washington to-morrow. I will follow your instructions, and will report
+to you by letter from that city, and then meet you at Newburgh at the appointed time."</p>
+
+<p>As he finished his reply Fern Fenwick said: "Mr. Flagg, I am very much
+pleased with your prompt decision in favor of my arrangements. I see our
+friends returning from the lake, will you help me to spread the lunch?"</p>
+
+<p>With keen appetites they enjoyed the lunch especially the delicious
+blueberries which George Gaylord and Mrs. Bainbridge had brought from
+the lake. The hours passed quickly; the drive back to the hotel was
+without mishap or incident: the entire party, on separating, voted it a
+day of perfect pleasure, Fillmore Flagg and George Gaylord expressing
+their thanks to the ladies for their kind invitation which had given
+them such a delightful excursion.</p>
+
+<p>Later, George Gaylord called at the room of his chum for a few moments
+chat. "Come in," said Fillmore Flagg, "I was just thinking of you. I
+have made up my mind to go to Washington to-morrow for the purpose of
+answering that advertisement. How much longer do you propose to remain here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not more than two weeks," replied George Gaylord. "I understand Miss
+Fenwick and Mrs. Bainbridge are going away to-morrow. I am likely to
+have a very quiet time, all by my lone self: I think I must take to
+bowling for an hour or two each day just to keep up my exercise and kill
+time. I hope you may be entirely successful in your interview with
+Bitterwood &amp; Barnard. Remember how much I am interested in this matter,
+and your promise to let me know the result. By the way, what a perfectly
+delightful day we have had, thanks to that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span> lucky gust of wind which
+tore your clipping from my fingers and landed it at Miss Fenwick's
+dainty feet. What a talented young lady she is, and so handsome too. Her
+lecture on the mountain top about that stone would have been a credit to
+any one. I never saw her look such a picture of perfect beauty before.
+She seemed wonderfully interested in you, Fillmore, especially after
+your brilliant reply to her series of apparently unanswerable questions.
+I declare, the profoundness, the ingeniousness, and the boldness of your
+successful answers filled me with amazement! You fairly surpassed
+yourself; all the time looking your best, just like a hero. Yet when you
+looked at Miss Fenwick you seemed just at the point of falling down to
+worship her. I can't blame you. What a glorious couple you two would
+make! If it were not for her immense wealth I believe you could win her;
+any one can see that you have made a very favorable impression. Perhaps
+you can win her as it is&mdash;I wish you all success, you certainly deserve
+it. Mrs. Bainbridge tells me that at the death of Miss Fenwick's father,
+some years ago, she became sole heir to his vast fortune; most of it in
+very rich Alaska gold mines."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you quite sure," said Fillmore Flagg, "that her father is dead?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes Fillmore, I am quite sure; although it is just possible that I may
+have misunderstood Mrs. Bainbridge. In my hotel acquaintance with that
+lady I discover that she is a very intelligent and accomplished person
+of rare good sense. Splendid company; we seem to get on famously
+together, I shall miss her very much I am sure. As usual, I am doing all
+the talking: it is now your turn to say something."</p>
+
+<p>"I think I could," said Fillmore Flagg, "if my<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span> chatterbox friend,
+George Gaylord, would only give me a chance. Miss Fenwick I regard as
+the most beautiful and cultured woman I have ever met. I do admire her
+very much, but the possibility of ever winning her for a wife is, at
+this time, too remote for me to consider for a moment. I must now pack
+my trunk and then see the hotel clerk about getting it to the railway
+station. So good night, George, I will see you again in the morning."</p>
+
+<p>That night Fillmore Flagg could not sleep. The beautiful image of Fern
+Fenwick was before him the moment he closed his eyes. The events of the
+past two days, with their crowding memories, kept racing through his
+mind: he could not think calmly or connectedly. He was in a fever of
+expectancy regarding the meeting at Newburgh, and the prospect of
+spending a whole week at Miss Fenwick's cottage on the Hudson. Then and
+there, no doubt, she would tell him all about herself, her father, her
+particular work, when and why she became interested in it etc. But what
+about the father? How could he have an interview with her father, if
+Mrs. Bainbridge was correct in saying that Mr. Fenwick had been dead for
+several years? It was a mystery he could not solve. He did not doubt
+Fern Fenwick for a moment and felt sure she would, at the proper time,
+make everything plain. How gracious and winning she had been to him; she
+seemed to bid him to have courage. In spite of her great wealth, and a
+hundred other obstacles that might exist, he was more and more in love
+every hour. If proving himself worthy of her confidence in every way
+would win her love, surely then, he would win it. With this
+determination fixed in his mind he fell asleep.</p>
+
+<p>In her room that night, as Fern Fenwick brushed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span> her hair and prepared
+herself for rest, she often paused to ponder over her strange meeting
+with Fillmore Flagg; thinking what a fine, manly looking fellow he was,
+and how well he could talk; how thoroughly equipped he was to take up
+the question of improving farm life, the lives of farmers and their
+families&mdash;the question of all questions for her. Surely, Mr. Flagg bore
+the stamp of destiny! He was the man of all men to make her work a
+complete success. How fortunate she was to secure his valuable services.
+How strange, that after a brief acquaintance of only two days, she
+should have such perfect confidence in a comparative stranger. Yet, she
+did not doubt his integrity; she knew he was loyalty itself; she
+intuitively felt that she could trust him implicitly&mdash;he would never
+betray her interests under any circumstances. She knew from his every
+look, tone and gesture that he admired her intensely, devotedly. Her own
+feelings, she did not care to analyze. With a sigh, more of pleasure
+than weariness, she composed herself for the night and was soon lost in sleep.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER V.</h2>
+
+<h3>FAIRY FERN COTTAGE.</h3>
+
+<p>One week has passed since the events narrated in the previous chapter.
+At Cornwall on the Hudson, on a West Shore train speeding north, we find
+Fillmore Flagg; his mission at Washington successfully accomplished, the
+letter of introduction from Bitterwood &amp; Barnard secured. In another
+short hour he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span> will be at Newburgh. Will the lovely face of Fern Fenwick
+be the first to greet him? As the moments fly by, his heart beats
+faster. He feels the surging tide of his all-absorbing love for this
+beautiful woman, thrilling and permeating his entire being. He tries to
+be calm, to think what he ought to say that would be fitting and
+appropriate; he knows his eyes are blazing and his cheeks glowing with
+an unwonted fire, still his thoughts refuse to flow into the satisfying
+forms of speech he most desires to use at the coming meeting, which
+seems to him to be the marking of a great crisis in his life. Ah! There
+is the whistle sounding! The speed of the train is checked as it
+approaches the station. He steps on to the platform while the train is
+still moving. He beholds many upturned faces in the surging crowd
+between him and the doorway of the ladies' waiting room, but Miss
+Fenwick he cannot see. Will he ever reach that room? Has anything
+happened to her? A great fear contracts his heart, he fancies he fairly
+staggers as he enters the door. In an instant he is suffused with a
+great joy. By the window, awaiting his approach, stands Fern Fenwick,
+the perfect picture of cool, contented loveliness. She extends her hand
+and greets him with a firm clasp of hearty welcome, and a second edition
+of that dazzling smile, so becoming to her, so bewitching to him.</p>
+
+<p>"How do you do, Mr. Flagg? I believe your train must be late. How well
+you are looking, in spite of the heat and the dust! We will have your
+baggage secured as soon as possible and placed in the carriage, then we
+will drive to the cottage in time for lunch."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you Miss Fenwick, I am delighted to see you looking so well. My
+journey from Washington<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span> has been a very pleasant one; I have enjoyed it
+and have not suffered from the heat."</p>
+
+<p>The carriage now came up, they stepped in and commenced the beautiful
+drive of one and one-half miles to "Fairy Fern Cottage," which was
+charmingly located on the summit of these famously terraced hills. Hills
+that have been historic since the revolutionary days of General
+Washington, when their slopes were white with the tents of his soldiers.
+As they approached the cottage, the artistic eye of Fillmore Flagg noted
+with pleasure the broad expanse of spacious lawn, gently sloping down to
+the road. Half-moon-shaped, it presented for his admiration five acres
+of smoothly shaven, velvety green. For one-eighth of a mile, the entire
+width of the lawn and cottage grounds, a low wall of ornamental cut
+stone separated the lawn from the road and formed the straight line of
+the half-moon. From the gates at either end of the wall a broad,
+beautifully kept driveway swept around the semicircle of the lawn,
+passing just in front of the cottage at the center of the deep bay of
+the half-moon. On each side of the driveway the greensward was
+beautified by alternating star and diamond-shaped plots of geraniums,
+roses, gladioluses, canna and nasturtions. Sitting close to the outer
+edge of the drive, about ten feet apart, commencing at the corners of
+the porch on either side, were rows of potted palms extending around the
+curve, one hundred and fifty feet each way&mdash;the palms gradually growing
+smaller as the distance from the cottage became greater. The effect was
+beautifully unique and suggestively semi-tropical. The cottage and lawn
+was embayed by a crowning crescent of choice foliage and shade trees;
+the thin horns of the crescent terminated at the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span> gateways in low gray
+stone towers. From these points the horns gradually grew broader and the
+shrubbery rose higher. First the rhododendrons mixed with clumps of
+hollyhocks, next flowering almonds, roses, spireas and syringas; then
+came the drooping long leaf sugar pines, with an artistic mingling of
+slender limbed graceful silver birches: farther back were the taller
+firs and spruces, interspersed with thick clumps of small copper
+beeches, extending to and joining at the back of the cottage, the dense
+forest of tall, straight bodied elms, oaks and maples which partly hid
+and shaded the stables and the kitchen portion of the cottage.</p>
+
+<p>The cottage itself was built of gray stone; with thick walls and large,
+low, deep seated windows. It was two stories in height, with three
+square towers rising twenty feet higher. The central tower was larger,
+and gave space within its walls for one grand room of magnificent
+proportions, thirty feet square and with a fifteen foot ceiling. The
+general effect of the cottage, lawn, and crescent background of foliage
+and forest, was as novel as it was beautiful. As the carriage entered
+the farther gateway, Fillmore Flagg was surprised and delighted:</p>
+
+<p>"How perfectly exquisite!" he exclaimed: "A real gem! A romantic scene
+from fairyland! Rightly named 'Fairy Fern Cottage!' It is a fitting home
+for Fern Fenwick."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick as they stepped from the
+carriage to the porch: "I appreciate your praise of my cottage home. I
+love it, I am proud of it, I give you a hearty welcome to its halls. May
+your memories of it prove always pleasant. Let us enter. During your
+stay you are to occupy the front room on the second floor, the one
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span>under the right hand tower. I think you will find the view from the
+windows very pleasing and attractive. The luncheon bell will sound in
+just half an hour."</p>
+
+<p>In the dining room Fillmore Flagg found Mrs. Bainbridge who greeted him
+very cordially. She sat at the left of Fern Fenwick, who was at the head
+of the table. The table itself was oval shaped, very large, seemingly of
+rich, solid mahogany; the china and silver were elegant and artistic.
+The center piece was a large silver tray filled with a wonderful
+collection of rare ferns. Around it a ring of cut glass bouquet holders,
+filled with spikes of flaming gladioluses, formed a most effective border.</p>
+
+<p>"You are to sit here at my right, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick.</p>
+
+<p>As Fillmore Flagg took the proffered seat, he thought her a most
+charming hostess, admirably fitted to preside over this exquisitely
+decorated table. He looked in vain for her father; finally concluding
+that Mr. Fenwick must be a confirmed invalid, confined to his room.
+Luncheon over, Fern Fenwick invited Fillmore Flagg to her study to
+consider the business of the work before them. Her study proved to be
+the large square room in the central tower, which was so generously
+lighted by its eight large windows. The furniture was of carved oak; the
+carpet and hangings, rich and heavy, were of a pale lilac tint, which
+gave an air of peaceful quiet and harmony to the room. From the front
+window, looking eastward, a long stretch of the beautiful Hudson could
+be seen at one sweeping glance. In the south east corner of the room
+stood Fern Fenwick's desk, a large one with a roll top. At the right of
+the desk, on an easel against the wall, was a very fine, life size
+crayon portrait of a noble <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span>looking man of sixty winters or more. The
+massive forehead was both broad and high and very smooth. The eyes were
+wide apart, large and expressive, the full beard, thick and fine; the
+hair, abundant and wavy. Both hair and beard were evenly tinged with
+gray. The body was large, erect and well proportioned&mdash;it fittingly
+matched the noble head. The portrait impressed one as being life-like
+and full of character. Close beside the easel was a large arm chair,
+upholstered with stuffed leather, a grayish brown. Lying across the arms
+of the chair was a large, peculiarly shaped trumpet of aluminum,
+ornamented with a heavy cord and tassel of gray silk.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick, "this is my private workroom; here I am
+undisturbed and not at home to callers. This is my desk. Here you see my
+father's portrait: this is his favorite chair. Will you be seated in the
+smaller chair near it? I will sit in the chair at my desk."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Miss Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "Up to this time I had
+thought of you as living here with your father: I now perceive, from the
+way you speak of his portrait and of his favorite chair, that he must be
+dead. Please correct me if I am wrong in my conclusions."</p>
+
+<p>"I will explain the situation in a very few words," said Fern Fenwick.</p>
+
+<p>"In the eyes of the world I am an orphan, my father and mother having
+both passed from this to the land of spirit. The world, in its blind
+ignorance, calls them dead. To me, thanks to my mediumship, and to the
+mighty truth of spirit communion, they are still conscious, living,
+loving parents. Every day, here in this room, they come to me and
+through the trumpet there, speak to me as naturally,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span> as fluently and as
+lovingly as ever. I feel and realize their constant watchfulness and
+loving care. In times of need their advice never fails, always proving
+as wise as it is unerring. They never for a moment allow me to realize
+that I am an orphan in any sense of the word. The word Death has no
+terrors for me: I realize that for them it means simply a happy
+transition to a higher life, filled with broader and brighter
+possibilities; and, blessed truth! that they are permitted to come to me
+when I need them. I sometimes shudder when I think what might have
+happened to me if I had not been born and bred a spiritualist and a
+medium. However, we will speak of these things more at length later on.
+At this time, under my father's guidance and with your assistance, I am
+to carry out and complete his plans for the improvement of farm life on
+lines quite in harmony with your ideas. I know he approves of you and of
+your work, and has confidence in your integrity and ability. At the
+proper time he will speak to you personally through the trumpet. Let us
+now consider another matter pertinent at this time.</p>
+
+<p>"In order that you may thoroughly understand the situation that
+surrounds and affects our work, it will be necessary for me to tell you
+the story of my life, and with it the story of the life of my father."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER VI.</h2>
+
+<h3>FENNIMORE FENWICK.</h3>
+
+<p>"On a pioneer farm in northwestern Iowa, with a broad expanse of
+beautiful prairie on every side, far from town or village, lived my
+grandfather, George Fenwick. On this farm in October, 1840, my father,
+Fennimore Fenwick, was born. Of a family of nine children, five boys and
+four girls, he was the fifth, two of the brothers and two of the sisters
+being older. Closely associated as a healthy, harmonious family of
+children, they grew up surrounded by the conditions of an isolated farm
+life, so general in the widely scattered settlements of those early
+days, with only now and then rare chances for a little schooling of the
+most primitive character. However, they shared with each other their
+joys and sorrows, their plays and privations; always forbearing and
+patient, kind and affectionate, light-hearted, sympathetic and helpful,
+they did much to develop that broad, loving, genial nature which made my
+father kin to all mankind. So just and true! So nobly unselfish! A
+signal illustration of the great blessing which Nature's beneficent law
+of compensation brings to large families.</p>
+
+<p>"Passing on to September, 1865, at the close of the war of the
+rebellion, we find the large family, so long and harmoniously united,
+now separated and widely scattered. Grandfather and grandmother Fenwick
+both died during the closing year of the war. With the exception of my
+father, the brothers and sisters were all married and settled on farms
+of their own: some in Iowa, one in Missouri, two in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span> Kansas, and two in
+Minnesota. The homestead was divided between the two younger brothers.
+All of the brothers served as soldiers, good and true, during the war;
+the two younger only one year each. My father, more fortunate than the
+others, by his bravery and soldierly excellence won a commission, and
+came home the captain of his company.</p>
+
+<p>"From this point forward we will follow my father's career as he makes a
+pathway in life for himself.</p>
+
+<p>"From 1865 to 1871 he devoted his time and his savings to hard study in
+the best of schools, finishing a master of his profession&mdash;a mining
+engineer and expert in assaying and metallurgy. From 1871 to 1882 he was
+general manager of a wealthy mining company in Colorado at a large
+salary, making a name for himself as one of the most skillful and
+successful men in the profession. While in Colorado my father was
+haunted by an intuitive feeling that the gold-bearing quartz region of
+Alaska held a rich find in store for him. In October, 1882, a very
+strong corporation was organized in San Francisco, 'The Alaska Mining
+Co.,' to open and operate their extensive mines in Alaska. The directors
+of the company chose my father manager. They offered him an increased
+salary to go to Alaska to take entire charge of the work. This position
+he accepted and retained for five years. During that time he discovered
+a very rich mine on a small, rocky island near the coast. In partnership
+with his old friend, Mr. Dunbar, one of the San Francisco directors of
+the Alaska Mining Co., my father, at the end of five years service for
+the company, had developed the mine on the island into one of the best
+paying and most extensive of that famously rich gold bearing quartz
+region. This was the foundation and support of his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span> vast fortune, which
+thereafter required his entire attention. At the death of Mr. Dunbar,
+which occurred in 1890, his one-third interest in the mine passed to his
+son, Dewitt C. Dunbar, a young man of great energy and integrity, with
+an excellent business education. He impressed my father as one in every
+way trustworthy and capable. At my father's request, Dewitt C. Dunbar,
+accompanied by his young wife, at once removed to Alaska. Under my
+father's tuition he began to prepare himself to take the active
+management of the mine, which had been christened 'The Martina.'</p>
+
+<p>"In 1882, while on his first visit to San Francisco, my father met and
+loved Martina Morrison, my mother&mdash;my beautiful mother. She was
+twenty-seven, my father forty-two. They were perfectly adapted to each
+other, and both equally charmed and devoted. She possessed a fine mind,
+well cultured; a handsome physique, charmingly graceful in every
+movement; and, her crowning glory, an exceedingly amiable disposition.
+Martina Morrison, by those who knew her longest and best, was declared
+to be the soul of honor. She was an excellent medium, an enthusiastic
+and devoted Spiritualist&mdash;one of its purest and most eloquent exponents,
+highly esteemed by all as an able and earnest worker in the service of
+the two worlds. Fennimore Fenwick, my father, soon became much
+interested in her wonderful mediumship, and later became convinced of
+the absolute verity of the mighty truths of Spiritualism. He at once
+declared himself its willing and outspoken advocate: in his enthusiasm
+of delight he even hailed it as the coming religion of the world.</p>
+
+<p>"Martina Morrison had such confidence in my father's future mining
+success, that she readily<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span> yielded to his urgent request for a speedy
+marriage, that she might accompany him on his first trip to Alaska. And
+thus it was they sailed away on their bridal tour, their destination
+that far off land of flashing glacier and unexplored forest, almost, if
+not quite, beyond the borders of civilization. This long voyage to an
+unknown country had no terrors for them. They were all the world to each
+other. A bright halo of hope and happiness spread a soft glow of
+enchantment over ship and sail, sea and sky, so vivid, so far reaching,
+that it even touched and tinted the distant shores of that far off, rock
+bound coast of Alaska. Smooth seas, lovely weather and favoring winds
+speeded the voyagers: those halcyon days flew swiftly by. Almost before
+they dreamed it possible the vessel came to anchor in the port that
+marked the end of the voyage. Safely landed, my father reported at once
+at the office of The Alaska Mining Company, only a few miles distant.
+There he commenced his five years of management for the Company, of
+which I have already spoken. There my mother remained until December,
+1884, when she returned to San Francisco, to visit her friends. My
+father followed her five months later."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER VII.</h2>
+
+<h3>AN ALASKA KINDERGARTEN.</h3>
+
+<p>"In June, 1885, I was born, and soon became a very active member of the
+Fenwick family. I was pronounced by all who saw me an offspring in every
+way worthy of my noble father and my beautiful<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span> mother. When I was two
+months old, my parents returned to Alaska, taking me with them. There I
+remained until I was seven years old&mdash;seven years in that forbidding
+clime, so near the Arctic Circle. Isolated from other children, yet how
+happy and contented I was. Those years recall a troop of joyous
+memories, with not a bitter one to mar the group. My beloved parents
+were my only companions, playmates, teachers and confidants. I was
+papa's own girl. He was very proud of me and wished me to be with him as
+much as possible. He never wearied in the endless task of answering my
+questions, always so skillfully directing them by suggestions, that in
+my receptive mind there was soon unfolded a clear conception of the
+outlines of the different branches of all useful knowledge. When I was
+four years of age I knew the alphabet perfectly and could spell and
+construct a great number of words with my lettered blocks, and then copy
+them on my slate. When I was five years old, thanks to my mother's
+patient teaching, I could read fairly well. My father's ingenious
+methods soon made me familiar with the key-words of geology, chemistry,
+(including the names of minerals, metals and gases) botany, history,
+geography, physics and astronomy. I was unconsciously taught to
+associate these words or names with the groups, or families, to which
+they belong. I would spend hours with my father in the most delightful
+game of separating and classifying a miscellaneous heap of different
+colored blocks, bearing the names of minerals, metals and gases and the
+key-words of the studies I have just mentioned. To illustrate: The
+astronomy blocks were blue with the names in white letters; the geology
+blocks were a deep reddish brown, with names in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span> gray; chemistry, red,
+lettered in black; botany, green, lettered in yellow; geography, gray,
+lettered in blue; history, black, lettered in red; physics, a deep
+orange yellow, lettered in white; mathematics was represented in a small
+way by the cipher and nine digits, lettered in black upon ten plain
+unpainted blocks, giving in their forms that number of the principal
+geometrical figures, to which was added a shallow box with a broad lid,
+perforated by ten holes, corresponding to the blocks in number, size and
+shape, but large enough for the blocks to easily pass through into the box.</p>
+
+<p>"In these groupings my childish interest and delight was intensified by
+my father's personification of the different families, such as: 'Mr.
+Astronomy Blue,' 'Mrs. Geology Brown,' 'Mr. Chemistry Red,' etc. For
+instance, the wonderful stories he told to me of the minerals, metals
+and gases&mdash;the sons and daughters of Mr. Chemistry Red, as he termed
+them&mdash;describing their loves and hates, the great variety of pranks they
+played, the queer combinations they entered into, the good and the bad
+work they performed, etc. These to me were fairy stories of the most
+charming kind, while at the same time they gave me a correct idea of the
+powers and properties of these unfamiliar things and served to identify
+them more closely as members of the chemistry family. My mother was a
+natural teacher, very proficient in botany, and in history, with its
+flower and fruitage of classic prose and inspiring poetry. She entered
+into my father's 'block-signal-system' of education with an enthusiasm
+as zealous and childish as my own, therefore her contributions to the
+rapidly increasing store of blocks were large and exceedingly
+interesting. Her stories regarding the numerous<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span> members of the botany
+and history families proved equally profitable and charming; those about
+plants and trees especially so. These stories and plays of science
+grouping, always associated with such pleasant emotions of my childish
+heart, became permanently fixed and dominant in my mental growth,
+forming separate brain structures around which the details of the
+accumulated knowledge of future years could easily and naturally
+classify and crystallize.</p>
+
+<p>"Thus swiftly passed those happy years of my early girlhood. So
+constantly was I associated with my dear father and mother that schools
+I did not need. In my seventh year, under their supervision, I commenced
+a systematic course of scientific reading which I kept up until after I
+graduated from college. I commenced with the Science Primer Series,
+reading aloud to my parents one half hour each morning and evening,
+conversing and commenting on the different topics as we went along. This
+proved to be a continuation of the game of blocks: just as interesting,
+equally entertaining; all about the same familiar families. I enjoyed it
+so much and never once dreamed I was accomplishing a great deal of good
+hard study. To me it was play; play that gave me more pleasure than any
+of my childish sports. I soon began to ask for an extension of the half
+hour lessons to an hour each; when my request was granted my cup of
+pleasure was full, my joy complete. With each succeeding week my
+interest in all my studies continued to grow. Yet my health remained
+perfect: my physical kept an even pace with my mental growth, largely
+owing, no doubt, to the much enjoyed hours of good romping exercise and
+the dancing and singing which followed my reading lessons.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span></p><p>"You must pardon me, Mr. Flagg, if I should tire you with such a
+detailed account of my child life; my excuse must be, the valuable hints
+it may offer when we come to consider a school system for the children
+of our model co-operative farm."</p>
+
+<p>"I am profoundly interested," said Fillmore Flagg. "The very wonderful
+result flowing from the wise methods conceived by your parents and
+carried out by them so devotedly, fills my mind with admiration and
+offers a flood of suggestions as to the possibilities of what may be
+accomplished by a properly conducted, well equipped school on a
+co-operative farm. But you must not allow me to interrupt&mdash;please
+proceed with your very interesting story."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER VIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>AN INTERVIEW WITH THE "FAIRIES."</h3>
+
+<p>Fern Fenwick rose from her seat saying: "As it is near sunset, Mr.
+Flagg, I have something to show you in the way of a surprise, which I
+wish you to see before it becomes too dark: after having seen it you
+will better understand why this house was named 'Fairy Fern Cottage.'
+Therefore I propose that we now adjourn to the cool shade of the grounds
+at the rear of the cottage, postponing the recital of the remainder of
+my story until this evening."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be delighted to follow you," said Fillmore Flagg. "You have
+excited my curiosity; I am just in the mood to learn all I can about
+this lovely cottage and its beautiful surroundings."</p>
+
+<p>As they reached the shady lawn, so cool and sweet<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span> from its recent
+sprinkling, Fillmore Flagg observed that a wide, straight avenue, shaded
+by towering oaks and widely branching elms, led from the rear porch of
+the cottage to the broad front of the roomy stone stables, some two
+hundred and fifty feet distant. In the center of this avenue, with a
+finely graveled carriage drive on either side, rose a long line of huge
+stone arches, ten in number. These imposing structures of solid masonry
+were full thirty feet high, spreading to a width of thirty feet at the
+base. The two center arches were each twenty feet thick; the others, ten
+feet each. The open space between the arches was uniformly ten feet; the
+open circle under each arch was twenty feet in diameter. The vista
+formed by the spaces and arches together, was over two hundred feet in
+length. From the farther arch to the front of the stables lay thirty
+feet of smooth, clean gravel which covered, at this point, the full
+width of the avenue, seventy-five feet, forming the open court, around
+which was built the stables and the two tastefully designed stone
+buildings on either side&mdash;one, beautifully fitted up for the residence
+of the superintendent, the other containing the heating and pumping
+apparatus and the electric generator. The two wide center arches
+supported the huge metal tank which held the ample water supply of both
+cottage and outbuildings. Evidently, they were admirably adapted to that
+particular purpose. The rough stone work of the outside of all the
+arches was artistically covered and beautified by a luxuriant growth of
+intermingled ivy and cinnamon vine, which gave a still deeper shade to
+the interior. To the beholder, the exterior effect of the vines on the
+long line of arches was as beautifully romantic as if it really were one
+of those old Abbeys in picturesque<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span> ruin, so charmingly described by Sir
+Walter Scott. Deep grooves in the stone work, with light iron frames
+fastened near the outer edges of the arches, gave support during the
+cold weather to a roof of double glass, which covered all the open
+spaces between the arches, converting the whole into one vast
+greenhouse, through which passed the system of heating pipes from the
+furnace room to the cottage, thus providing a roomy winter home for an
+army of tropical plants and shrubs and at the same time protecting the
+water supply from the ill effects of all frost. A screen of interlacing
+vines, in place of the glass roof, now served to make the shade of the
+archway almost complete.</p>
+
+<p>Having sufficiently examined the exterior and becoming to some extent
+familiar with the general plan and purpose of these unique arches,
+Fillmore Flagg and Fern Fenwick returned to the covered entrance from
+the kitchen porch. Here, as they were standing a few feet above the
+ground, they had an unobstructed view of the interior of the archway.
+Through the center, where the lower disc of the open circles touched the
+ground, ran a deep bed of coarse gravel, covered with a thick layer of
+smooth round pebbles, forming a perfectly drained pathway about three
+feet in width which extended uniformly from one end of the archway to
+the other. Conforming to the contour of the arches, rising and receding
+in unison, this pathway was bordered on either side by what appeared to
+be a continuous terrace of three stone benches, each one foot high and
+of the same width. These benches really were very heavy square terra
+cotta pipes, ingeniously cemented together with telescopic joints, and
+having thick, grooved covers which formed the protecting conduits for
+the wires<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span> of the lighting system and the pipes of the irrigating and
+heating apparatus.</p>
+
+<p>Artistically arranged on these benches, in pots that were beautifully
+modeled, colored and glazed, was a wonderful collection of choice ferns,
+embracing all of the known varieties in prodigal profusion. The pots
+were so arranged that the smaller varieties occupied the lower benches,
+with the larger ones in gradually increasing sizes on the higher benches
+farther back. Viewed from either end of the archway they formed two
+matchless banks of the rarest verdure and the loveliest foliage the
+world ever saw. Everywhere the eye was delighted by great masses of
+drooping fronds of delicate green, like rare lace in
+fineness&mdash;outrivaling in beauty the plumes of the famous birds of paradise.</p>
+
+<p>"This is simply superb!" exclaimed Fillmore Flagg. "I never saw anything
+one half so lovely! Shall we walk through now?"</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a moment, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick. "The twilight shadows are
+so deep you have, as yet, caught only a glimpse of the rare beauty of my
+lovely ferns." Stepping quickly to the right side of the first arch, she
+pressed a button and lo! those wonderful banks of ferns, and all the
+space of the archway, was flooded with a glory of soft, clear light. A
+thousand tiny bulbs, in a lovely variety of flower and fern leaf
+patterns, gleamed and glowed from beneath the ferny banks or hung
+pendant, rainbow like, from the roof of this rock ribbed archway.</p>
+
+<p>Held spellbound for some moments by his surprise, admiration and
+delight, Fillmore Flagg murmured softly, almost in a whisper: "Can
+anything surpass this vision of perfect beauty?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said Fern Fenwick, radiant and smiling,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span> "I think it can be
+surpassed, but we must allow the enchantress to use her magic once more,
+by giving my darling ferns their bath of beauty. Then you shall see them
+in their diamond robes."</p>
+
+<p>Saying this, she pressed another button. A thousand tiny pipes,
+concealed in the ribs of the stone roof, gave forth a shower of fine
+spray, filling the long fernery with a hazy mist of cobweb fineness.
+Very soon millions of globules of moisture gathered on leaf, stock,
+frond, plume and tiny tip of every leaflet, reflecting each ray of light
+with diamond-like brilliancy. Pressing another button to shut off the
+spray, Fern Fenwick said:</p>
+
+<p>"Now, Mr. Flagg, my ferns have donned their royal robes and are ready
+for your tour of admiring inspection. I assure you they are worthy of
+it. As a choice collection of ferns in such perfect condition, its equal
+cannot be found in all the wide world! As a collector I am an
+enthusiast; for many months I have travelled far and wide in my efforts
+to add new specimens of rare beauty to the original collection. You may
+guess how much I prize it when I tell you that money could not buy it."</p>
+
+<p>"You are surely a most wonderful enchantress," replied Fillmore Flagg.
+"I feel that under the potent spell of your magical wand, I have entered
+the inner mysteries of some glorious temple of ferns, in a world of
+enchantment! I am so fascinated and dazzled by this marvellous display
+of brilliancy and beauty, that I am moved to pay homage to you, Miss
+Fenwick, as a fitting tribute of loyal devotion to Fern, the Fairy Queen
+of this fair temple."</p>
+
+<p>As he finished his gallant speech, the deep tones of emotion vibrating
+in the full rich voice of Fillmore Flagg, and the look of intense
+admiration which<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span> shone so eloquently from his eyes, brought a flush of
+color to the fair face of Fern Fenwick and warned her that it was time
+to be moving. Skillfully keeping up the personification, she quickly said:</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Flagg, I am delighted on behalf of the fairies to express thanks
+for the glowing tribute to their Queen which you have so beautifully
+voiced. Let us now walk through to the end of the fernery and return. As
+we pass along I will point out my favorite plants."</p>
+
+<p>Only a few steps had been taken when Fillmore Flagg paused, listening
+and looking about him in all directions, with a very puzzled expression.
+A delightfully cool breeze was fanning their faces: this breeze was
+laden with some strangely sweet perfume both soothing and stimulating to
+the senses. The air all about them seemed to vibrate with the distant
+melody of some angelic music, now sinking, now swelling in perfect
+harmony; so soft, so clear, so bright, so inspiring in its wealth of
+tone and joyous movement.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! Miss Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "my senses are all entranced!
+Your wonderful fairies in this grotto of magic are at this moment
+thrilling my being with sensations of the most intense delight! How can
+the Fairy Queen explain? What has she been doing with her magical wand
+to produce such delicious perfume; such entrancing music?"</p>
+
+<p>Fern's merry laugh rang out musically clear, and her eyes sparkled
+roguishly as she replied: "I assure you Mr. Flagg, that in this instance
+the fairies are not responsible. The explanation is quite simple but
+rather long. Therefore let us move forward while I give you the details:
+As we were stepping down on this graveled walk, I turned the switch and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span>
+started the ventilating fans, at the same time connecting the electric
+current with a series of melophones located near the top of the arches.
+Along the ventilating tubes, in a series of small compartments, are
+sponges saturated with different kinds of perfume. These sponges can be
+exposed to the air current or withdrawn at will, yielding a single
+perfume or a blending of as many kinds as one may wish. The wonderful
+variety of these choice blendings, which can be so easily produced,
+affords a constant succession of sweet surprises. The melophones which
+you hear, represent the highest achievement of art in the production of
+automatic musical instruments. This set is the most complete and the
+most expensive one in existence. In construction and final completion
+they cost the inventor and maker three years of constant thought and
+labor. The result is truly marvellous. The perfection of harmony and
+purity of tone are convincing testimonials of their excellence. In
+operation these instruments are placed in a very large double tube made
+from a peculiar kind of metallic alloy recently discovered, which
+affords the most perfect conditions for the conservation and
+conductivity of all musical vibrations. They are capable of producing an
+almost endless variety of choice music. The selection which we hear at
+this time, is one which I have re-named 'The Carol of the Ferns.' Pardon
+me, Mr. Flagg, if in my enthusiasm over the beauties of what you have so
+poetically termed my 'magical temple of ferns,' some of my statements
+should sound like boasting; I assure you they are not so intended. I
+trust that now I have cleared up the mystery to your perfect satisfaction."</p>
+
+<p>"Charmingly," said Fillmore Flagg, "Nevertheless my fairyland illusions
+still abide with me; I confess<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span> I am still under the spell of the great
+happiness they have given to me&mdash;I shall never forget it. The truth in
+this case proves even stranger than fiction; I quite agree with you that
+in all the wide world there is nothing like this! It seems to me that
+those extraordinary melophones yield the finest music I have ever heard.
+In sweetness and purity of tone, softness and wealth of harmony, which
+is pervaded by some electric quality of inspiration, so stirring, so
+thrilling that every nerve and every cell in the body responds. They
+stand unrivaled as the very acme of musical art. I now understand why
+your lovely home here should be named 'Fairy Fern Cottage.' I fully
+appreciate the significance of the title. This royal temple of ferns
+makes the name most fittingly appropriate, and easily ranks this cottage
+as the eighth wonder of the world! The fame of its rare beauty should be
+known in every land. You ought to be very proud of it. I assure you,
+Miss Fenwick, that you are abundantly justified in praising it
+enthusiastically at all times, without fear of being considered
+egotistical. But tell me, if I may be permitted to ask, who was the
+wonderful genius who first conceived and planned the building of this
+imposing line of arches? So useful, so ornamental, so unique, yet so
+perfectly adapted as a summer and a winter home for your ferns and
+flowers and, withal, offering such a perfect title to your unrivaled cottage home."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, Mr. Flagg, for that question. In my reply I am eager to pay
+a deserved tribute to the dearest and noblest of men&mdash;my father.
+Inspired by his love for me, his brilliant mind conceived the entire
+plan and purpose of this curiously novel structure. He succeeded in
+completing it and also in filling it with the original collection of
+ferns, without<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span> my knowledge. On the morning of my fifteenth birthday,
+he brought me here to bestow upon me this priceless gift. The surprise
+was a perfect one. When he made me understand that he gave with it a
+deed to the cottage and grounds, the surprise became so intense that it
+fairly took my breath away. I was so overjoyed that by turns I laughed,
+and cried, and hugged papa, until I came very near to having a genuine
+fit of hysteria! At that time we changed the name of the house to Fairy
+Fern Cottage. This is why I am so proud and so fond of my cottage home.
+This is why I appreciate your praise of it so much&mdash;why I am so thankful
+for it. I feel sure that you will now appreciate my sincerity when I
+repeat that money could not buy it!"</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER IX.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE PROBLEM VS. A GOOD MAN WHO IS AS RICH AS HE IS NOBLE.</h3>
+
+<p>After supper Fern Fenwick and Fillmore Flagg returned to the tower room
+for the continuation of the story. She began by saying:</p>
+
+<p>"Let us return to my father's mining operations in Alaska. In 1892,
+Dewitt C. Dunbar assumed the active management of the Martina mine. A
+large proportion of my father's surplus capital from the mine had been
+invested, through trusty agents, in the cities of San Francisco, Saint
+Paul, Chicago, Washington and New York. We at once planned a tour of
+travel that would give him the opportunity to personally inspect these
+investments, and at the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span> same time give me a chance to see the world,
+and to mingle in society, or so much of it as a continuous hotel life might offer.</p>
+
+<p>"For my mother and myself this delightful tour was one long holiday. We
+enjoyed it so much. To me especially, it proved exceedingly profitable;
+geographically speaking, my ideas of the largeness of the world, and the
+vast number of its people, were wonderfully expanded. In December, 1893,
+father completed his investments by the purchase of a winter home in the
+city of Washington, and this summer home here. This cottage was built in the year 1900.</p>
+
+<p>"During the summer of 1894 we visited the brothers and sisters of my
+father, who were at that time living with their families on farms in
+Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri. As was generally the
+rule, with a large class of farmers in those states at that time, we
+found them, with but few exceptions, poor, in debt, and very much
+discouraged by the menacing outlook for the future. Farm interests
+everywhere were in a desperate condition. A succession of twenty years
+of falling prices for all farm products, accompanied by frequent
+calamities, such as hail storms, hurricanes, hot, blighting winds,
+drouth and armies of grasshoppers, had so multiplied and magnified the
+farm debts, and so reduced the value of farm, stock, and product, that
+even the interest on the indebtedness could no longer be kept up; ruin
+and beggary threatened the entire community of farmers. Under the severe
+pressure of these conditions, great numbers of the more unfortunate
+abandoned their farms in despair and sought employment elsewhere, mostly
+in manufacturing centres and the large eastern cities. Much of the money
+and wealth of the land had flown to those points, thither<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span> logically,
+they followed, to enter the ranks of that vast army of competitors for
+the crumbs that might fall from the table of an already glutted labor
+mart; to learn by bitter experience how cruelly the system of
+competition in all kinds of business can grind the helpless poor; to
+learn, through years of suffering, the real meaning of competition, that
+so long as it rules over commercial and industrial systems, the rich
+must grow richer and fewer in number, while the poor must grow poorer,
+and more and more numerous; to apprehend, slowly and painfully, that by
+coming from farm to city they had still farther congested the already
+overstocked labor market, thereby adding fierceness to the competition,
+insuring an increase in the purchasing power of the dollars of those who
+held the labor market, while they correspondingly decreased the
+possibilities for earning the dollars they must have in order to live;
+to perceive dimly in their desperation, that congestion of the labor
+market speedily affected all markets; that an overstocked labor market
+always meant a decrease of wages, which in turn, caused a corresponding
+shrinkage in the number of purchasers for all salable goods in the
+general market, followed by increased panic and stringency in the money
+market; which speedily rolled up another disaster, sweeping in turn,
+additional thousands into the ranks of the unemployed; demonstrating,
+finally, that a repetition of these evils is inevitable; that
+competition in its last analysis, means the complete destruction of all business.</p>
+
+<p>"As my father came to understand the full significance of this
+deplorable situation, involving and distressing his own brothers and
+sisters, his noble nature was grieved and shocked. He made haste to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span>
+place his people in a condition of financial independence. How happy and
+grateful they were! And my father rejoiced with us that he was able to
+offer such timely assistance. He then announced to us his determination
+to devote the remainder of his life, and so much of his fortune as might
+be necessary, to the solution of the problem of how best to overcome the
+blighting evils of the competitive system. After much thought, long
+research and hard study, he decided to commence with the land as the
+necessary basis of all progress; with the farm as the rational
+progressive unit; with improved farm methods on co-operative lines, as
+the lever by which to restore the control of the land to the farmers,
+and to lift them and their sons and daughters from the class of ignorant
+dependents, to a class of cultured independents, which should be well
+worthy of serving as a model in the race of progress, for all the other
+classes. In his efforts to modify, correct, and reform social and
+business methods, he proposed to use the strong and kindly arms of
+Co-operation in fighting the evils of Competition, or its
+representative, the pitiless competitive system. He reasoned that all
+forms of government are but the result of co-operative effort. Both
+experience and observation had taught him that the measure of excellence
+of any government is the measure of its perfection in co-operation.
+Therefore it logically follows, that the more perfect the co-operation
+achieved by the administration of any form of government, the greater
+the degree of justice and equality attained in the distribution of
+benefits to all of the governed."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER X.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE REAPING OF THE DEATH ANGEL.</h3>
+
+<p>"Towards the close of the summer of 1895, my father placed me in the
+preparatory department of Vassar College, where I made rapid progress. I
+began to appreciate the superior wisdom of the methods of teaching which
+my parents had so systematically carried out for my improvement. Thanks
+to their efforts, I held the key to all of the sciences, history and
+literature, prose and poetry! All of their principal words or terms with
+their definitions, were familiar friends to me; while all new facts
+regarding their various subdivisions, auxiliaries, etc., and the
+relations existing between them as such, were matters of absorbing
+interest to me; so much so, that I soon became master of the subject I
+was studying, very often proving a puzzling surprise to my teachers. At
+the age of twelve I entered the regular course and graduated from
+college just as I was entering my eighteenth year, being by four years
+the youngest member of a graduating class of one hundred girls.</p>
+
+<p>"Some months after my fourteenth birthday, my darling mother was taken
+from me in the mortal form, very suddenly and most unexpectedly. My
+father was away from home on a long trip to Alaska. I was at Vassar. My
+mother was with a congenial party of friends at a favorite seaside
+resort. One day while bathing, one lady of the party swam too far out,
+was taken with a cramp and shrieked for help. My mother, who was
+nearest, being an excellent swimmer, courageously went to her
+assistance. Unfortunately, the tide was running full and strong<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span> and was
+against my mother in her heroic struggle to save her friend. Alas!
+before aid could reach them both sank beneath the waves and were lost.
+My noble mother had generously sacrificed her earthly existence in her
+brave effort to save the life of another! This was my first experience
+of the grief and desolation that follows the reaping of the Death Angel.
+In my youth, my half-dazed condition, I could neither realize nor
+understand what later became so plain to me; that to die is to live
+again. That death, so-called, is but the change from one form of life to
+another, which is still higher in the scale of progress. Nor could I
+then realize, that for the purpose of bringing to me a consciousness of
+the possibilities of my spiritual being; under the ministrations of the
+angel of compensation, out of the very depths of the gulf of bereavement
+and sadness through which I was passing, there was coming to me the
+precious gift of a priceless mediumship, the marvelous key! the
+all-potent 'open sesame' with which to unlock the gates between the two
+worlds and reunite the separated loved ones on either side.</p>
+
+<p>"At that time Mrs. Bainbridge, then but recently widowed, was in charge
+of the old home here. She was an excellent medium who had often proved
+herself worthy of my mother's entire confidence. Acting under the
+guidance of my arisen mother, she at once, without hesitation, took
+charge of all business arrangements, especially those of preparing for
+the cremation of my mother's body, in accordance with her often
+expressed wish. She telegraphed the sad news to my father in Alaska,
+asking for instructions. He replied at once that the body must be
+cremated, as my mother had directed in her will. He would return as soon
+as possible, but at the best he could<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span> not hope to arrive in less than
+two months. In the meantime, Mrs. Bainbridge was authorized to take
+entire charge of 'Fern,' and of his business affairs that needed
+attention, until he came.</p>
+
+<p>"I came home from college, sorely grieved and shocked at the awful
+suddenness of my mother's transition, but through the mediumship of Mrs.
+Bainbridge, my mother, having her in a deep trance, was soon able to
+comfort me; to make me realize that she was not dead, but still near me
+with all a mother's love and tender care. From time to time she directed
+Mrs. Bainbridge how to manage the pressing business that came up. She
+told me that she had long known that I was endowed with wonderful
+mediumistic power, which must now be fully developed for her sake, as a
+necessary and natural channel of communication so desirable to her,
+which she should prize very highly. Also as a source of comfort for
+myself and my father, especially as a joyful surprise for him when he
+came home. Therefore it was decided between us that I was to sit one
+hour each day with Mrs. Bainbridge for development. My mother seemed to
+feel sure that I would make an excellent trumpet medium, and encouraged
+me by predicting my speedy development as such. Strangely enough, so it
+proved. My progress was rapid. In two weeks time my mother could speak
+to me through the trumpet without difficulty and much to my delight. I
+began to appreciate the great value of my wonderful gift and to
+understand what it meant. Our dear family circle, which in my despair I
+had thought broken forever, was now reunited. Father, mother, daughter!
+just us three as of yore. And&mdash;the wonder of it&mdash;I, the youngest, the
+weakest and the least wise of the trio, was the instrument!<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span> When I
+thought of the possibilities, of the joy and consolation it would bring
+to my father and mother, my heart swelled with gratitude and
+thankfulness that this mighty power had come to me. The power to destroy
+the dread of death; to demonstrate the continuity of life; to prove that
+the binding love of family ties, kindred, and cherished friends still
+shone with untarnished lustre beyond the shadows of the silent grave.
+How beautiful, how wonderful, how glorious it was! And with this power
+came the solemn charge that I was to cherish it with care and keep it
+pure and holy. Yes, I resolved that I would do this conscientiously. It
+should be my highest ambition to ever use my mediumship with my best and
+most unselfish aspirations, to keep it apart from the grosser things of
+life, to dedicate it to good and to good alone. And thus it was that my
+mediumship continued to develop and grow in perfection. My mother could
+talk with me as often as she wished and as long at each sitting as she
+desired. I was no longer alone or despondent, my darling mother still
+could be, and was really, my mentor, friend, parent, teacher and
+spiritual guide. I forgot to mourn or to feel lonely, though I longed
+for my father's homecoming that we might share this new found joy. So
+interested was I and so occupied, that the two months quickly passed and
+my dear father reached his home in safety. I had arranged for a quiet
+evening with him alone. When my mother, through the trumpet, joined in
+the conversation and welcomed him with loving words of endearment, so
+familiar in the greetings of other days, he was almost overcome by the
+flood of ecstatic emotions that moved and thrilled him as he began to
+appreciate the significance of such a miraculous surprise. His heart was
+glowing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span> and his entire being permeated with this great wave of
+happiness. His face was radiant with joy and beamed with fatherly
+affection and pride as he pressed me to his heart again and again,
+thanking me for my thoughtful spiritual work in the development of my
+wonderful gift, which, for his consolation, I had striven so
+unselfishly, so ardently and so earnestly to attain, while facing alone
+the one great crisis of my young life. Still holding me in his arms, he
+looked into my eyes long and fondly, almost adoringly, as he said: 'With
+such a daughter, whose loving heart and purity of soul has won for her
+the marvellous power to reunite our broken family circle, I am indeed
+the most fortunate of all men.' Then in a moment I perceived that I was
+no longer a child, I was a woman; that henceforth my father would think
+of me as a woman&mdash;still his loving daughter&mdash;but also his equal, his
+confidant, his trusted friend, his adviser in times of need, his oracle,
+his medium of communication with the loved ones who dwelt in the world
+of spirit. How good and beautiful was life in the light of this new
+vista of possibilities and responsibilities for me! For the moment I
+seemed to be transported to some grand spiritual height, where as a
+responsive spiritual unit, I felt the throbbing of the limitless sea of
+environmental life surrounding me like a golden mist, on every hand.
+Every pulsation proclaimed my immortality as a part of that boundless
+sea; boundless, fathomless, unthinkably shoreless! of life,
+all-producing, all-containing! My soul no longer questioned. It was
+filled with a peace and joy that passeth the power of words to describe.</p>
+
+<p>"Thus inspired and encouraged for the future, I was ready and eager to
+take up again the active <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span>duties of life. In resuming my collegiate
+studies, it was agreed between my father and mother and myself, that I
+should come home from Vassar every Friday evening, returning by the
+early train Monday morning, the intervening time to be sacredly devoted
+to our trumpet family circles. Oh, Mr. Flagg! How happy we were then!
+For the next three years nothing was allowed to interfere with these
+delightful reunions, whose memories are associated with so many
+incidents that bound us three so closely with the silver cords of pure affection.</p>
+
+<p>"After leaving college, I accompanied my father in all of his
+journeyings after new data in economics and agriculture. For this
+purpose we spent the winter of 1902-3, travelling in France, Italy,
+Germany and England, returning to America in April, 1903."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XI.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE MARTINA MINE.</h3>
+
+<p>"Early in June of the same year, Dewitt C. Dunbar discovered a new lead
+in the Martina mine which proved to be of such marvelous size and
+richness, that my father's personal inspection was demanded at the
+earliest possible moment, to decide on the best methods of pushing
+forward the new work, and also to determine what part of the old work
+should be continued. The numerous letters and telegrams from Mr. Dunbar,
+all urging the utmost haste on my father's part, gave him but little
+time to consider the results of such a long journey, or to make the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span>
+proper preparations for it. It was evident that Mr. Dunbar must be in a
+state of intense excitement. In order to catch the next steamer from San
+Francisco, father left a number of important items of business for me to
+transact. I wished very much to go with him but all the circumstances
+seemed to conspire against me. Father promised to return at the earliest
+possible moment, meanwhile he was to send me a dispatch announcing his
+safe arrival in Alaska. By the end of July, messages, and later, letters
+began to reach me announcing the wonderful output of gold from the new
+lead. So rich was the ore that for a time it was thought best to abandon
+all work in the old mine. I could see very plainly from his letters that
+the fever of Mr. Dunbar's excitement and enthusiasm had also claimed my
+father as a victim. I then foresaw that his stay in Alaska would be
+prolonged far beyond my expectations or his own. I began to feel very
+uneasy and to wish most fervently that I had insisted on going with him.
+I resolved in future to keep him company wherever he journeyed.
+Meanwhile the yield of gold from the new lead continued to increase. The
+value of the Martina rose like magic; offers to purchase at fabulous
+prices came pouring in. Mr. Dunbar would not accept, and decided, then
+and there, to remain another ten years as manager and resident
+superintendent of the mine. That settled the question. After that, my
+father announced that the mine was not for sale at any price. In writing
+to me concerning the matter, he says:</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>"'My Dear Fern:&nbsp; *&nbsp; *&nbsp; *&nbsp; I at that time decided that my interest in
+the mine which I had named for your mother, and which had proven
+the luckiest and richest in Alaska, should pass to you as it came
+to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span> me, entirely unencumbered. So rest assured, my daughter, so
+long as Dewitt C. Dunbar is able and willing to manage the mine,
+both my interests and yours are in safe hands; in skill, honesty
+and ability he is one of the grandest men I have ever known; he is
+a treasure. You can trust him implicitly!'</p></blockquote>
+
+<p>"As I had anticipated, it was December before my father could leave
+Alaska. In a letter dated Dec. 5, to which I shall again refer, he says:</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>"'I have planned to leave here on a steamer that sails on the tenth
+of this month. I fear the voyage may prove a rough one. I have a
+foolish dread of it, which is quite unusual for me. I am oppressed
+by an uneasy feeling which I strive in vain to shake off. However,
+I have taken good care to make such arrangements with Mr. Dunbar as
+will cover all possible contingencies. This is to be my last trip.'</p></blockquote>
+
+<p>"On the twelfth of December I received a message from Mr. Dunbar,
+stating that Fennimore Fenwick had sailed on the tenth as he had
+planned; that he was well and strong, and would wire me as soon as he
+reached San Francisco. This cheering message gave me new courage, I
+began to count the days and to look forward more hopefully. I decided,
+although it was so late in the season, to wait here in the cottage until
+my father came. When Mrs. Bainbridge left to open our house in
+Washington, I had intended to follow her a few days before Christmas,
+but for some unexplained reason, I could not make up my mind to leave
+the cottage. After the message came the question was settled&mdash;I was to remain here."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XII.</h2>
+
+<h3>SPIRIT AND MORTAL.&mdash;FATHER AND DAUGHTER.</h3>
+
+<p>"At this point, Mr. Flagg, I wish you to carefully note the significance
+of the strange event which soon followed. Christmas Eve, 1903, found me
+here alone, seated at my desk, alternately reading, musing and writing.
+All day a terrific snow storm had been raging, at nightfall it continued
+with increased severity. I could hear the fierce gale shriek as it
+lashed the tree tops furiously. I shuddered when I thought what danger
+such a gale might mean to the good steamer, bearing my father homeward
+bound across the rough, icy waters of that far off wintry sea; that
+yawning, terrible, treacherous sea!</p>
+
+<p>"During the afternoon I had been nervous and lonely. As a solace, I had
+a long talk from my mother through the trumpet, which cheered and
+comforted me greatly, especially her confident promise that I should
+hear from papa even sooner than I had hoped. Over this I was musing when
+a strange thing happened. I was startled by the low tones of a familiar
+voice from the trumpet. Almost frozen with fear, I heard: 'Do not be
+frightened, my darling; I am your father, Fennimore Fenwick, who loves
+you, if possible, more than ever. A frightful storm wrecked the steamer
+and released me from my body. Nearly all of the passengers and crew
+perished with me. A few still survive; they are in a single open boat,
+tossing helplessly in the awful surge of that wild waste of water,
+possibly they may yet be saved. My dear wife, Martina, your own
+beautiful mother, was watching and waiting for me at the scene of the
+wreck. Hers the beautiful arms<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span> that welcomed me as I was born into the
+new life of the spirit. How glorious it was that she, so dear to me,
+could be there. In the radiance and splendor of all her spiritual
+loveliness, I was charmed almost to the point of forgetfulness. I seemed
+to be floating on the bosom of a sea of golden mist, my spirit filled
+with a measureless contentment. Presently I awoke to a vivid
+consciousness of my new life. In the light of the loving eyes of my
+peerless Martina, I was soon made to realize that I had just passed
+painlessly from life mortal to life spiritual. I perceived that time and
+space no longer barred the flight of my freed spirit. Hand in hand we
+came; almost before I knew it we were here. Thanks to your mediumship,
+and to this trumpet, I could come and speak to you so soon. Yes, my dear
+child, we three, a loving trio, are still united just as of yore. I
+shall be permitted to help you, from this side of life, to carry out and
+complete my plans and purposes regarding improved modes of farm life. I
+wrote you from Alaska on the fifth of this month, announcing my
+intention of sailing on the tenth; that letter came by a Victoria
+steamer and will soon reach you. At that time I was weighed down by a
+premonition of some impending disaster. So seriously was I impressed,
+that I at once made arrangements with Dewitt C. Dunbar, in case of my
+death, to continue to operate the mine in partnership with you on the
+terms now in force, and this he was perfectly willing to do. By the
+terms of my will, now in the hands of my attorneys at Washington, you
+are at this moment, sole heir to my large fortune. As you know, I long
+ago placed my brothers and sisters beyond the reach of want. Well do I
+know, my dear girl, that I can trust you perfectly, to carry forward my work.'</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span></p><p>"As his voice ceased to vibrate in the trumpet, I sprang to my feet
+with outstretched and imploring hands: 'Father!' I cried, 'How can I do
+this work alone? I am yet but a child, with a very limited business
+experience to fit me for this great responsibility.' He at once replied:
+'Fear not, my child. Faithful, capable, and trustworthy help shall be
+brought to you. At all times I shall be near, to advise, and to guard
+you and your interests. Go forward bravely in the conscious power of
+your own potential spirit, dominant and dauntless. Armed with the
+majesty and mystery of your mediumship, all obstacles shall yield, and
+naught shall prevail over you!' This prophetic command, so thrilling, so
+imperative, touched and stirred my inner self; my soul responded to the
+appeal. In one brief moment I regained my self control; was calm, could
+think clearly and reason logically.</p>
+
+<p>"At intervals throughout the night I continued to consult with my
+parents. My father advised me to write at once, announcing his death,
+and requesting Mr. Dunbar to fix a time at which he could meet me in San
+Francisco, for a conference. This I did at the earliest practicable moment."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.</h3>
+
+<p>At this point in her story, Fern Fenwick said: "Mr. Flagg, I now realize
+the wonderful prescience of my father's promise of abundant and timely
+help, especially when I consider your life work, and the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span> masterly way
+you have equipped yourself for it, and finally, by the mysterious manner
+in which we were brought together. Is it not almost like a miracle?"</p>
+
+<p>"Really, Miss Fenwick, I am lost in amazement! It seems to me that I
+must be dreaming! The situation is so entirely outside of my experience,
+so unthinkably strange to me, that I doubt my ability to discuss it
+intelligently. Your story is the most marvelous of anything I have ever
+heard. I feel quite sure that it must be strictly true, yet I can
+scarcely comprehend it. A host of questions arise in my mind, which I
+wish to ask, if I may be permitted. When you heard the voice from the
+trumpet, how could you feel so sure it was your father speaking? That he
+had been swallowed up by the sea? That the shipwreck had really occurred?"</p>
+
+<p>"I do not wonder at your questions, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick, "I
+will gladly answer as best I can. Without considering or discussing the
+fact that the crucial test of identity was disclosed by almost every
+word which my father uttered, yet I could not for a moment doubt his
+presence. I knew he was there. I recognized every intonation of the
+voice. I felt the identity of his spiritual personality, radiant with
+the silent force of his love for me, quite as plainly as though at that
+moment his physical personality had entered the room. My experience
+after my mother's transition, the development of my mediumship, and my
+increased sensitiveness to the presence of spiritual entities, no doubt
+aided me greatly. At that time I perceived and recognized without
+question, that life in the physical is but the expression of the spirit,
+or Ego; that after the passing of the physical, the Ego inherits and
+possesses immortality as a conscious individual entity, clothed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span> with a
+spiritual body, perfectly fitted for its continued existence in the
+realms of the world of spirit; that, through the action of a natural
+law, the law of mediumship, such spirits can and do, come to and
+communicate with their friends and loved ones in earth life. All these
+things, I knew my father understood clearly, therefore I was prepared to
+accept the verity of his spiritual presence as readily as I would any
+other phenomenon of nature. In conclusion, I may as well tell you at
+this point, that the letter referred to by father as having been written
+by him in Alaska on December fifth, together with my conference in San
+Francisco, some months later, with Dewitt C. Dunbar; the arrival in port
+at that time of a China steamer, bringing the mate and four sailors as
+sole survivors from the wreck of the ill-fated steamer, and my interview
+with them, all confirmed, in every particular, the truth of the
+statements concerning the matter, which were made by my spirit father,
+just after his passage through the gateway of death from life mortal to
+life spiritual. Can I add anything more convincing?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Miss Fenwick! I believe what you have told me is absolutely
+true. I can perceive and appreciate its wonderful significance only in
+part. I understand now clearly why it was necessary for me to know so
+much of the story of your life and that of your noble father. I have
+listened to your story with almost breathless interest, with all I am
+profoundly impressed. A new world is opening to me. My mental and
+spiritual horizon has been extended beyond the power of words to
+express. Life has a thousand new meanings: In them I read the importance
+and responsibility of the great work we are about to undertake. I wait
+with increased interest<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span> for my personal interview with your father. Now
+that I have heard so much of him, I bow with added reverence to his
+great and noble love for humanity which prompted, and his wonderful
+genius which conceived and planned the work so generously. I am proud
+and thankful that I have been chosen as an instrument deemed capable and
+worthy of helping to carry it forward.</p>
+
+<p>"As to things spiritual, pertaining to a life beyond the grave, I am
+intensely interested and eager to know more. May I hope, Miss Fenwick,
+that you will kindly consent to become my teacher in this new school of
+wonderful phenomena and spiritual law? I too, am alone in the world; my
+father and mother have both passed the bitter flood of the dark river of
+death. They too, like your parents, must now be living in the world of
+spirit as conscious, loving father and mother, with hearts filled with a
+living, glowing affection that can and will respond to my own. Can it be
+possible that I am to feel and know this by direct communication with them?"</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be delighted, Mr. Flagg, to help you in this matter in any way
+that I can. Your desire for a direct communication from your parents is
+perfectly natural and right and, I doubt not, will be fully gratified in a few days.</p>
+
+<p>"In this connection, let me ask: Have you ever had a seance with a
+medium? Do you know anything about the laws that control and govern
+mediumship? Have you been interested to any extent in reading the
+all-comprehensive philosophy which mediumship demonstrates?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am very glad, Miss Fenwick, that you have put those questions. I
+desire to state briefly and frankly my attitude, up to this time,
+towards <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span>mediumship and the philosophy and phenomena of spiritual
+manifestations generally: I believe I was a born agnostic. All my life I
+have been skeptical as to the verity of a life beyond the grave. In this
+I have differed widely from my people, a large majority of whom have
+been zealous Presbyterians for at least five generations, while I have
+followed Voltaire and Ingersoll. In the ranks of their following I have
+been content to cry: 'I don't know! I can wait! One world at a time is
+enough for me!' As to mediumship, or any manifestations of it, I know
+almost nothing. The few mediums I have met accidentally, have
+unfortunately failed to impress me favorably. All that I have heard or
+read of them has had a strong tendency to prejudice me against them and
+the philosophy they taught. Therefore, until my visit to this cottage, I
+have never been at all interested in the matter. I now perceive that in
+studying the great problem of life, and how best to learn most about it,
+I have utterly ignored one of the most important sources of both
+information and inspiration. My prejudice and indifference have
+vanished. I wonder at myself, at my readiness to accept your point of
+view regarding your most marvelous mediumship and its wonderful
+manifestations; at my feverish interest and anxiety to learn all I can
+about things spiritual at the earliest possible moment; at my intense
+longing for the complete verification of all the beautiful propositions
+relating to spiritual life which you have stated so eloquently and so
+convincingly; but most of all do I wonder and am amazed that these
+things are not miracles; that they occur through the action of natural
+law, which, if true, makes it possible&mdash;nay probable&mdash;that mediumship
+and its manifestations are as old as life itself. This,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span> Miss Fenwick,
+defines my position as clearly as I can state it. Do you think I am
+likely to prove a pupil worthy of his teacher?"</p>
+
+<p>"I most assuredly do, Mr. Flagg," said Fern. "I think you are now
+prepared for the promised interview with my father. However, before he
+joins us, I wish to say by way of explanation, that when I am here
+alone, he can use the trumpet with ease at any moment and in any kind of
+light, but in the presence of strangers, different conditions are
+required. We shall at first be obliged to use another kind of light. By
+the aid of this light you can plainly see the trumpet, supported
+horizontally in the air just over his chair, but you will be unable to
+discern even the faintest outline of the spiritual form holding it; as
+in using the trumpet, the vital force of both the manifesting spirit and
+the medium is concentrated in the trumpet in the effort of speaking. Sit
+perfectly quiet for a moment; I will close the windows and prepare the room."</p>
+
+<p>A few touches on the small keyboard in her desk, and lo the heavy double
+curtains swiftly and silently unrolled and covered the windows. At the
+same moment, the beautifully ornamented, dome shaped center of the lofty
+ceiling began to glow with a constellation of soft, phosphorescent
+lights, filling the room with a radiance as mild and silvery as
+moonlight, and yet even more soothing to the nerves. Presently the air
+was vibrant with the low, sweet strains of distant music, soft and slow
+and of such exquisite harmony that it seemed a rare combination of all
+that was inspiring, charming and beautiful in the variations of time,
+sound and rythm. The combined effect of the light and the music on
+Fillmore Flagg was electrical. Every nerve was thrilled<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span> with rapture.
+He was completely absorbed. As the music ceased he turned with a start
+to look for the trumpet. As he looked, it slowly rose from the chair and
+there came from it the clear tones of a manly voice, full of sweetness
+and power. He heard these words: "Fern, my daughter, will you tell this
+gentleman who I am?"</p>
+
+<p>"My dear father," said Fern, "How glad I am that you have joined us! Mr.
+Flagg, this is my father, Fennimore Fenwick, of whom I have told you so
+much. Father, this is Mr. Fillmore Flagg, who, as you already know, has
+promised to devote himself to our work."</p>
+
+<p>As the trumpet slowly moved nearer, Mr. Fenwick said: "Mr. Flagg, as the
+father of Fern Fenwick, I extend to you a cordial greeting and a most
+hearty welcome to Fairy Fern Cottage. I trust this is but the
+commencement of a long and uninterrupted acquaintance, which may soon
+ripen into a true friendship, that shall bring much pleasure and profit
+to both. I am exceedingly well pleased with your advanced ideas on the
+subject of co-operative farming as the proper cure for the evils that
+now make farm life so miserable and so unsatisfactory. I wish
+particularly to congratulate you on the thoroughly systematic and
+successful methods you have adopted to it yourself so well for this peculiar work.</p>
+
+<p>"Now my young friend, one moment to another matter which is likely to
+prove of great interest to you. I find your parents in spirit life. I
+met them since you came to the cottage. They approve of your chosen life
+work. They are very proud of you, their beloved son and only child. They
+bid me give you a message of love with the assurance that they will
+speak to you through this trumpet very soon."</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span></p><p>"Mr. Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "I thank you for the encouragement
+of your kindly greeting and for the many pleasant things you have said
+of me and my work. In the future I shall strive conscientiously to merit
+your praise, and hope to earn your lasting friendship. As to the glad
+tidings from my parents in spirit life, I am rejoiced. In my heart the
+torch of hope is lighted; its pure flame is fast burning away the
+barriers of the belief I have so long entertained, that 'Death ends
+all,' also of the equally depressing creed of my Presbyterian people,
+who have so long taught and thought that 'The dead know not anything;'
+that my parents, with that vast army of souls, having passed the portals
+of the tomb, are now lost in the oblivion of that long unconscious,
+dreamless slumber, which stretches from the new made grave to The Day of
+Judgment. Hence, the message of love from my parents, with the assurance
+that they will speak to me so soon, has made me very happy. I am content
+to wait patiently for such further messages as opportunity may bring to
+me. I am ready and eager, Mr. Fenwick, to hear your plans. Please proceed."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," said Fennimore Fenwick. "Fern, my daughter, you are to
+remain at your desk with pencil and note book, prepared to take down
+what I have to say."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XIV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE ETHICS OF PLANETARY EVOLUTION.</h3>
+
+<p>"In order to plan this work wisely, and to discuss it understandingly,
+it will be necessary at the beginning to go back to first principles, to
+try to discover the real object and purpose of human life on this
+planet. In searching along the pathway of countless ages in our planet's
+history, we discover a continuous upward movement in the progression of
+the manifestations of life; from the mineral to the vegetable; from the
+vegetable to the animal; from the animal to man. Man representing the
+apex of progress in the constantly ascending spiral of the evolution of
+life from the birth of the planet to the present time. Therefore, both
+spirit and mortal, we are all children of the planet, chained to its
+destiny, all alike working factors in the achievement of its purpose so
+mighty. Through the planet, its solar system, and the system of systems
+in a long line of an infinite series, far beyond the power of
+computation, we are also the children of the Great Oversoul, the Source
+and Center of all life!</p>
+
+<p>"Human life, then, is the flower and fruit of the planet&mdash;the highest
+combined expression of its life&mdash;each life a planetary seed, a
+concentrated possibility of all expressions of planet life. Perhaps the
+most convincing and beautiful illustration of the truth of this vital
+and all important proposition is, that the reproductive cells of man in
+his highest state of development, multiply by fission, or self-division
+into halves, as did the primal sperm of protoplasm at the very beginning
+of vegetable and animal life. This<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span> great philogenetic vine with its
+myriads of branching arms, reaches in an unbroken line from the lowest
+to the highest forms of life; all alike are fruit of this vine. This
+offers indisputable evidence of the common brotherhood of humanity! the
+motherhood of the planet! the fatherhood of the Great Oversoul!</p>
+
+<p>"From these premises we may safely conclude that the object and purpose
+of this planet is the evolution of human beings, their continued growth
+and development, until the state of perfection for the entire race is
+reached. With this comes the complete achievement of the purpose of the
+existence of the planet. Hence, we perceive that human life is the most
+precious production of the planet. Henceforth its energies are to flow
+towards the perfecting of the human race.</p>
+
+<p>"In the great, white light of a higher understanding of these basic and
+vital truths, let us strive to make conditions for the protection of <span class="smaller">ALL</span>
+human life. The task becomes less difficult as we more readily
+comprehend and appreciate the magnitude of the thought, that through the
+planet, this sacred life is the immortal and enduring expression of the
+Eternal Spirit. Viewed in this light, we apprehend clearly that all
+acts, by society or individuals, which tend to protect, promote and
+purify this life, are good, right and holy, and in their doing, become
+the highest and best expression of a sacred religious duty. On the
+contrary, all acts of society or individuals, which tend to destroy,
+injure, poison or sully this sacred life, or to bar its ordained
+progress are, in themselves, unholy, wrong, criminal and cruel, and in
+commission, become the greatest and most unpardonable of all sins.</p>
+
+<p>"All this becomes more apparent, when we <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span>consider that the sum of the
+pleasant sensations of the individual, and the happifying emotions which
+flow from them, constitutes the sum of human happiness. All conditions
+of life which promote right living, ethical culture and moral growth,
+nourish and call forth emotions of truth and honesty, pure pleasure,
+adoration, worship, hope, affection, love and all the higher and nobler
+characteristics, build up life and increase its capacity for happiness.
+Through the action of an equally inexorable and unswerving law, the
+misery and crime which poverty breeds, with its bitterness of hate,
+grief and despair, and all the train of other evil emotions engendered
+thereby, are poisonous in their nature; they tear down and destroy life.
+Therefore that social and industrial system which affords most
+abundantly, and for all of the people, conditions that are
+life-promoting and poverty-banishing, is logically the nearest just and
+right, because it is the nearest in harmony with natural law, and the
+object and purpose of human life.</p>
+
+<p>"Society as a whole, like a chain with defective links, is no stronger
+socially, morally, industrially, or politically, than its weakest unit.
+Hence it becomes the self interest of every individual member to
+endeavor unselfishly to build up and strengthen the weaker units in
+every possible way.</p>
+
+<p>"These propositions furnish the only sound basis for a perfect system of
+political economy&mdash;a system which shall afford the greatest amount of
+good or happiness to all the people. In considering the clearness and
+startling significance of these truths, we discover the cruel, criminal
+wrong of any system of competition, based on the old barbaric law of the
+survival of the fittest, which in its application means the pleasure and
+happiness of the few at the expense<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span> of the toil, pain and misery of the
+many. In this connection we note that man, in his evolutionary progress,
+has reached a point where, being mentally and spiritually awakened to a
+knowledge of the higher purposes of life, he perceives the true effect
+of environmental conditions, with their good and evil tendencies. He
+also perceives the cause and the cure. Armed with the talisman of this
+knowledge, he boldly enters the field of causation and thenceforward
+becomes a self-directing factor in his own evolution. At this important
+stage, he clearly comprehends, that the injury of one is the concern of
+all; that the perfection of all becomes the highest interest of each;
+that the unprogressive law of the survival of the fittest, is nullified
+and replaced by the higher law of unselfishness of the individual for
+the advancement of the race; that the dual nature of man, physical and
+spiritual, must be considered as inseparable, when dealing with the
+practical questions of life; that physical life, as the primary school
+of existence, is ephemeral, while the spiritual is the permanent and
+enduring; that, consequently, the path of progress for the human soul,
+lies almost entirely in the realms of the spiritual; that a life on the
+physical plane, devoted solely to selfishness, dwarfs and chokes the
+spiritual nature, and becomes a serious bar to unfoldment and progress
+on the spiritual plane of existence: Finally, that, like the pent up
+energies of some mighty volcano, the irresistible upward thrust of
+nature's unfoldment, ever producing and disclosing higher expressions of
+life, is to find its present outlet through these channels, by the wise
+use of methods in harmony with the principles stated."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN SOCIAL EVOLUTION.</h3>
+
+<p>"From the thorough understanding and appreciation of these principles,
+by the workers on your model co-operative farm, must come the necessary
+zeal, the cementing enthusiasm of a mighty purpose which, with ever
+increasing volume, shall urge them forward to the goal of complete
+success. As one of the means to insure this success, we must strive to
+introduce a new era for agriculture, in which co-operative working shall
+be supplemented and reinforced by co-operative thinking. As applied to
+farm work, this is a new and untried field which promises grand results.</p>
+
+<p>"In all kinds of productive labor, muscular effort is a mental
+demonstration! The keener the mentality controlling the muscles, the
+more satisfactory the work accomplished. The more interested and the
+healthier and happier the laborer is in his work, the easier it becomes
+for him to produce superior results. For centuries, farm work has been
+considered the natural avocation of the ignorant and the illiterate!
+Strange as it may appear, it seems to have been generally conceded that
+the typical clodhopper was the ordained farmer! That this perverted idea
+regarding the requirements of a tiller of the soil, should have
+maintained its existence for so many ages, is a matter of profound
+astonishment to every intelligent thinker!"</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Mr. Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "if at this time I quote
+a case in point from my own<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span> state. As late as the year 1897, a Bishop
+Withington, of Nebraska, speaking of farmers' sons who were struggling
+for an education, says of them:</p>
+
+<p>"'The farmers' sons&mdash;a great many of them&mdash;who have absolutely no
+ability to rise, get a taste of education and follow it up. They will
+never amount to anything&mdash;that is, many of them&mdash;and they become
+dissatisfied to follow in the walk of life that God intended they
+should, and drift into cities. It is the over-education of those who are
+not qualified to receive it that fills our cities, while the farms lie idle.'</p>
+
+<p>"This, Mr. Fenwick, is but a sample of many like expressions from the
+lips of public men, showing the stigma and low estimate which is placed
+on farmers as a class, by clerical, professional and commercial people.
+When we consider that farming people form a large majority of the
+citizens of our republic, a republic whose constitution guarantees equal
+rights for all; whose chief corner stone from the beginning, has been
+its admirable system of free education in its public schools; the
+manifest endeavor of the Bishop and his class, to consign the tillers of
+the soil to a caste of low order, and to argue that education is for the
+few and not for the farmer, indicates something radically wrong in our
+social system that augurs ill for the future of our republic. That the
+dissatisfaction is widespread and serious, is manifest to all thinkers
+and observers. To discover the cause and cure, and to speedily apply the
+remedy for this growing discontent, becomes an imperative duty for all
+patriotic people. In my experience, the following are some of the most prolific causes:</p>
+
+<p>"The isolation and loneliness of the small farm.</p>
+
+<p>"The long hours of tedious, monotonous toil for both man and woman.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p><p>"The constantly increasing competition of large farms, armed with
+capital and expensive machinery, which tends to reduce the price of farm products.</p>
+
+<p>"The want of proper society, healthful amusements, books, and many other
+necessary educational facilities.</p>
+
+<p>"The discouraging meagerness of the financial returns for a year of such constant toil.</p>
+
+<p>"These things all tend to destroy the farmer's love for, and pride in,
+his occupation, until farm work becomes a repulsive drudgery, and he
+flies to the city for a more congenial employment. Is it then, under the
+circumstances, any wonder that the farmers' sons should become
+dissatisfied with the occupation of their birth? That in company with
+their sisters and sweethearts they should be determined, at all hazards,
+to escape from the evils of what Bishop Withington terms a
+'God-ordained' class of hewers of wood, drawers of water, and tillers of
+the soil, a class which dooms them and their children to a future of hopeless toil?</p>
+
+<p>"Agriculture forms the basis and support of our national, industrial and
+commercial success. Therefore it is imperative that agricultural
+pursuits be made to become the most noble and pleasing of all
+occupations. How can this be accomplished?</p>
+
+<p>"Surely, co-operative farming, with its improved conditions and methods,
+is the remedy indicated!"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Mr. Flagg," said Fennimore Fenwick, "Co-operative farming is the
+partial remedy which shall start the healing process, and lead to the
+discovery of a perfect cure. You have ably stated the evils which make
+living on small farms so unsatisfactory. You have also made an excellent
+argument for our work from the text Bishop Withington has so blindly<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span>
+and unthinkingly furnished. It is quite evident that neither he nor his
+class, have the least conception of the true cause of the discontent
+they so deeply deplore. It is also equally clear that with all the
+advantages of superior conditions, with the observation and education of
+a lifetime, they have so far, utterly failed to understand or appreciate
+the real object and purpose of human life. They are sorely in need of an
+object lesson which we must furnish.</p>
+
+<p>"In efforts to slake a natural thirst for knowledge, the brightest
+minds, the most profound thinkers of the past ten centuries, at the end
+of lives devoted to study, have declared that the vast domain of
+knowledge still remained practically an unexplored field. This domain is
+for coming generations to conquer and possess. It invites the efforts of
+millions of co-operative thinkers, born and trained for the task. Hence,
+to me, it is as clear as the noonday sun that the embodiment of more
+mind by our agricultural people, is a matter of imperative necessity.
+They should have the leisure and the opportunity to become familiar with
+all the varied phenomena of nature, through the recorded observations
+that comprise the different sciences, which describe and explain all
+phases of surrounding life. Thus equipped, they will be able to discover
+that they are a living, working, part of nature, which defined, means
+the combined life of the planet; that they act upon all things about
+them and are in turn acted upon. A comprehension of these things can
+come only to the cultivated mind, and the richer its store of facts, the
+more perfect its grasp and control of surrounding conditions. Therefore
+mind, as the expression of the soul and body of the dual individual on
+the physical plane of existence, is <span class="smaller">EVERYTHING</span>! It controls<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span> and molds
+structure; the body; the people around. All history is but a detailed
+description of the action of mind.</p>
+
+<p>"The great minds are the dominant thinkers; they sway the multitude,
+mold public opinion, effect legislation and shape the nation. These
+dominant minds should come from the people of the soil, as best equipped
+to discover and proclaim the law of the planet's unfoldment, also best
+able to conceive and formulate the wise laws which should guide and
+govern its people. Hence the necessity for our farmers to become
+thinkers&mdash;dominant thinkers.</p>
+
+<p>"What are the best conditions for mind unfoldment?</p>
+
+<p>"As Professor Elmer Gates so wisely says, 'The human body is composed of
+myriads of living organisms&mdash;a co-operative colony of more or less
+intelligent cells&mdash;which respond to the control of the individual Ego
+through the action of the mind, and to the electrical conditions which
+flow from the emotions.' Hence the body is an important part of the
+thinking machine and, therefore, a perfect mind must absolutely be the
+highest expression of a perfect body. The perfect body needs to be well
+born. To be well born, is to demand conditions for a perfect motherhood,
+and the perfect unfoldment of both mother and child together.</p>
+
+<p>"Where can these conditions be found?</p>
+
+<p>"We find them best and most abundant in the rural districts, far from
+the turmoil and strife, the smoke and poisonous gases of the great city.
+Surrounded by fields and forests, in the pure air of a broad expanse of
+country, domed with the blue sky, and flooded with golden sunlight, on
+the soil of the farm, close to the fostering bosom of our planet<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span>
+mother, Earth. Therefore it must be the distinctive and well defined
+purpose of our co-operative farm to furnish and perfect these
+conditions, thus uniting in perfect harmony stirpiculture with
+agriculture, a union as poetical as it is practical. From these
+conditions must come a race of dominant thinkers, the exponents and
+champions of the real objects and purposes of human life.</p>
+
+<p>"With the coming of such a race, comes the beginning of the era of
+unselfishness, and the end of the present era of selfishness, the age of
+gold worship, where greed for gold blights and withers public and
+private conscience, dominates and corrupts all forms of society, and
+makes conditions which breed monopolies, caste, tramps, paupers, armies
+of idle men, strikes, discontent, starvation and revolution!</p>
+
+<p>"Verily, a perfect catalogue of the ways and means by which 'Man's
+inhumanity to man, makes countless millions mourn!' With the dawn of the
+unselfish era, comes the demonstration of how man's humanity to man can
+and will make countless millions rejoice!</p>
+
+<p>"In selecting the people who are to be the active, working members of
+our co-operative farm, it is a matter of the utmost importance that they
+should be chosen from a class of persons who are capable of thinking in
+harmony on religious and political questions, who are already in
+sympathy with progressive ideas and co-operative work, intelligently
+alive to its importance and to its advantages, capable of understanding
+and appreciating that it is not the sole purpose of the organization to
+make money but also to accomplish a multitude of things besides:</p>
+
+<p>"First and foremost, to ennoble the occupation of their birthright.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p><p>"To make farming the most charming and healthful and most desirable of
+all vocations.</p>
+
+<p>"To make it so remunerative that a reserve fund can be accumulated,
+sufficiently large to enable its members to purchase the necessary land
+for an ever increasing series of co-operative farms, for their children
+and their children's children for generations yet to come.</p>
+
+<p>"To unite stirpiculture so closely with agriculture that a race of
+perfect children shall be the crowning glory of all the productions of the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"To afford ideal conditions for motherhood and childhood, that all
+children may be proudly welcomed to a world of loving hearts; that they
+may be well born, wisely and beautifully unfolded mentally, morally,
+spiritually and physically; that they may be skillfully taught how to
+work, to think, to reason, and to comprehend and appreciate the true
+purposes of life, consequently their duties as true men and
+women&mdash;self-poised and noble, a law unto themselves&mdash;capable and fully
+prepared to enter the walks of life as worthy and honored citizens of an ideal republic.</p>
+
+<p>"That it is to be the province of the farm, by the co-operative thinking
+of its workers, to develop and increase the fertility and productiveness
+of the valleys and plains to such an extent that the hills and mountains
+may be reclothed with beautiful forests of choice trees, of varieties
+most valued for lumber and timber; also great orchards of the choicest
+varieties of fruit and nut bearing trees, as a source of future pleasure
+and profit, at the same time preparing the way for a more complete
+control of climatic conditions. By the process of shading and protecting
+the slopes of both hill and mountain by these valuable forests, a
+magical change for the better is<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span> effected. Everywhere a soft, spongy
+carpet of fallen leaves, ever increasing in thickness, is spread out,
+moistening and enriching the soil and conserving the waters of the
+increased rainfall. A thousand living springs of pure, sparkling water
+make glad the plains and valleys. The evils of flood, erosion and drouth
+are checked; the climate made more congenial; the value of both hill and
+mountain, as a source of wealth, increased a thousand fold.</p>
+
+<p>"Aided by the organization of our co-operative association, which makes
+it possible to treat large tracts of land as a single farm, this great
+work can be easily and surely accomplished by the earnest and united
+efforts of a people who, surrounded by conditions of comfort and plenty,
+are in a suitable mood to plant what their children and coming
+generations may enjoy.</p>
+
+<p>"As an evidence of man's awakening consciousness of his power, by means
+of intelligent co-operation, to make conditions that shall protect him
+and his loved ones from the many calamities which have hitherto beset
+and overwhelmed human lives, we note the extraordinary work accomplished
+by the different classes of insurance companies, during the past fifty
+years. These companies are in fact large bodies of people, incorporated
+and working co-operatively and systematically together to protect
+themselves. The success which has followed their efforts in this
+direction has, for the thinker, a marked significance, pregnant with
+suggestions for the future. In the co-operative farm, organized and
+carried forward on lines in harmony with the principles and purposes
+before stated, this system of insurance, in its simplest, least
+expensive and most practical form, is to be carried to its fullest
+extent into all the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span> departments of life. By its wise provisions for the
+care and protection of the weaker units, it insures its members against
+loss of employment or wages; against sickness, injury or accident;
+against poverty, hunger and crime. It insures to all, for themselves and
+their children, the perpetual right to occupy and till the soil, and
+thus to secure by short hours of pleasant, attractive labor, the
+generous return which can be obtained only by the most perfect system of
+scientific, co-operative farming, armed with abundant capital. In
+addition, it insures to them all the advantages of birth, health,
+education, society and amusement which money can buy for the wealthy:
+more leisure, more opportunities for mental, social, ethical and
+scientific self-culture. It also insures to the world at large an object
+lesson which shall demonstrate that the way is open for the poorest farm
+laborer to secure the same results by joining these progressive
+co-operative bodies.</p>
+
+<p>"In looking forward to the effect upon society which these combined
+farms may have, we must consider the numbers and strength of the
+opposing force which, on every hand, will rise up as a bar to progress.
+For years, gold, that concentrated essence of selfishness, has been
+recognized by its worshipers as the crowned king of society, whose
+crimson banners have borne these suggestive mottoes: 'I am not my
+brother's keeper! His injuries concern me not!' 'Every man for himself!'
+'It is well and good and right that the happiness of the few should be
+secured at the expense of the misery of the many, for is it not written,
+"The poor ye have always."?'</p>
+
+<p>"Fortunately, the law of compensation limits and finally crushes the
+reign of selfishness, causing it to perish by its own efforts to live,
+which in time<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span> destroy the substance upon which it feeds. Hence we may
+look hopefully to the future. With prophetic eyes we may behold the
+victorious march of these farm units by companies, battalions,
+regiments, brigades and divisions, like a vast army of peace, silently
+spreading, absorbing and conquering the old selfish system, grandly
+demonstrating the solidarity of human life, and the irresistible force
+of the combined efforts of thousands of bravely unselfish souls, working
+and thinking in unison, filled with enthusiasm kindled and inspired by
+the magnitude and grandeur of the true purposes of life.</p>
+
+<p>"Having thus broadly outlined the scope of the work, with its underlying
+principles, we may now give attention to the details of the plan for the
+initial farm. In this I would advise that the enterprise be made to
+adapt itself, so far as possible, to the present commercial and
+industrial conditions. That it be an incorporated stock company,
+limited. That its corporate life be for the longest possible term of
+years, with the right to renew. That it shall secure and control at
+least five thousand acres of land, to more readily enable it to dominate
+the township, as the lowest political unit of the republic; and also to
+give room for the planting of suitable forests. That its capital stock
+be limited to one thousand shares, to be divided equally among five
+hundred co-operators, composed of two hundred and fifty couples or
+families. That at the end of five years the stock be issued to the
+subscribers as paid up stock, by cash from the sinking fund, paid in for
+that purpose. That the stock of a retiring member can be sold only to
+the treasury of the company, the same to be re-issued to the succeeding
+member. That in order to avoid friction with the outside commercial
+world,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span> the stockholders collectively shall sell to themselves
+individually, at ruling market prices, whatever they may need, the
+profits to go as a contribution from all to the insurance fund for the
+aged. That the care of the sick and the injured, and the education of
+the children, be classed and paid as a legitimate expense of the farm.
+That the co-operators collectively, pay to themselves individually, a
+wage sufficiently generous to enable them to purchase what they may
+desire in the way of furniture, food and clothing; allowing for a
+liberal percentage to be devoted to the sinking fund, to pay for the
+farm, the stock, and also for the additional land that may be secured as
+future farms for the children. That all other details necessary for the
+successful carrying out of these plans, be left for a satisfactory
+solution, to the practical working and co-operative thinking of the
+members of the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"I wish you, Mr. Flagg, as soon as may be convenient, to make a tour of
+inspection for the purpose of selecting and purchasing ten of the most
+available sites for such farms that you can find. From the ten you shall
+choose the one best adapted to the conditions required for the initial farm.</p>
+
+<p>"After occupation, at the end of five years, these lands are to be sold
+to the co-operators, at the purchase price, which, in any event, must
+not exceed the sum of ten dollars per acre. Until the deeds are made to
+the co-operators, these lands are to be in your custody as sole agent and director.</p>
+
+<p>"In these matters my daughter, Fern, will aid you in every possible way.
+Many times you will find her advice valuable, therefore when needed,
+command it without hesitation. I have an abiding faith that her
+inspiration will benefit you in many<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span> ways in achieving success for the
+model farm; a matter in which I am greatly interested and to which, as
+both mortal and spirit, I have for a number of years given close
+attention and much earnest thought. I now leave the matter to you and to
+Fern for such thought and discussion as the occasion may demand. I shall
+be glad at any time to answer questions concerning any particular point.
+Good night, Mr. Flagg; Good night my daughter."</p>
+
+<p>As Fennimore Fenwick bade them good night, both Fillmore and Fern
+returned the salutation, and Fern rose from her chair, saying:</p>
+
+<p>"I think, Mr. Flagg, that until now I have never quite understood the
+broad principles of real unselfishness. In the light of my father's
+comprehensive statement of the true purpose of human life, they stand
+forth in bold relief, clear and strong. What a grand incentive they
+offer, to stir the zeal and enthusiasm of our co-operative workers! All
+life is affected by them and discloses new meanings. All life seems more
+precious, more sacred. Yet the task assigned to you, Mr. Flagg, is not
+an easy one: I foresee many difficulties, but you will overcome all of
+them. The plan is so thoroughly in harmony with right and justice, so
+fraught with happiness for the masses, that it must succeed! I trust
+that you feel encouraged to go forward hopefully with the work?"</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks to Fennimore Fenwick," replied Fillmore Flagg, "I am armed
+against all obstacles by a new philosophy of life. Its possibilities, as
+applied I to practical work, are beyond computation! His masterly
+statement of the true theory and purpose of human life, embodies the
+crystallized wisdom of centuries. I am profoundly impressed with it.
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span>Applied to my chosen life work, it demands my best thought, my entire
+devotion: to co-operative work as exemplified by our proposed model
+farm, it means unqualified success!</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Miss Fenwick, you have been hard at work, writing rapidly
+for a long time. You need rest. Let us then postpone further discussion until tomorrow."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I think that will be best," replied Fern, "so good night, Mr. Flagg."</p>
+
+<p>"Good night, Miss Fenwick."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XVI.</h2>
+
+<h3>FILLMORE AND FERN.</h3>
+
+<p>For Fillmore Flagg, a never-to-be-forgotten week has passed since the
+interview with Fennimore Fenwick, noted in our previous chapter. He is
+still at Fairy Fern Cottage, busy with preparatory work for his coming
+tour. Momentous events, which have radically changed his life, have
+followed each other in quick succession. Hours have passed as moments
+fly, in absorbing interviews with his spirit father and mother. His
+store of questions in relation to their experiences in spirit life, have
+all been answered: these answers have in turn suggested many more, until
+now he is satisfied. For him, the two worlds have been united&mdash;the
+continuity of life beyond the grave has been established as a verity
+past contradiction. As conscious individuals and loving parents in the
+realms of spirit life, his father and mother are as real to him as
+mortals. With each<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span> succeeding interview this conviction has grown,
+until, fully conscious of their loving sympathy and support, he begins
+to comprehend the connection between life and immortality; the
+stupendous meaning of immortal life&mdash;of never-ending
+progression&mdash;overshadows and dominates all other thoughts. In profound
+reverence he repeats to himself:</p>
+
+<p>"How noble, how sacred, how wonderful is life! A few years, comparably
+brief as moments, on the mortal plane of existence, to be followed by an
+endless Eternity, spent in gleaning wisdom and happiness from the rich
+fields of infinite progression. By the measure of immortality, who shall
+attempt to describe or limit the destiny of a human soul? As the epitome
+of the planet, the universe, and the universal cosmos, it must follow
+that the human soul is the repository of infinite possibilities. This,
+then, is the spiritual heritage of all. Sin and suffering, selfishness
+and greed, crime and vice in the transitory stage of the mortal, might
+stain and retard his spiritual growth, but they could never destroy the
+glorious possibilities of the final unfoldment."</p>
+
+<p>This broad conception of the possibilities of human life, here and
+hereafter, came to Fillmore Flagg as a revelation of the most sacred and
+marvelous character: in the light of such a revelation, the hideousness
+of selfishness stood revealed like a grim and warning monster. Now he
+saw the path of duty plain before him. On the higher, broader plane of
+unselfishness, he must strive to develop new powers and new aspirations
+to aid him in making better conditions for a more perfect protection and
+unfoldment of human life. To satisfy his highest ideal, he must devote
+himself to this work. The inspiration of the two worlds was upon him!
+His love for Fern <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span>Fenwick, the personification of all that was noble
+and beautiful, urged him forward; intensified and developed his highest
+aspirations for good; permeated, glorified and dominated his entire
+being. Love and life!&mdash;the former, the mystery and the crowning glory of the latter.</p>
+
+<p>Hours of self communion, alone in his room, had for Fillmore Flagg a
+hitherto unknown charm. The crowding memories of the happiest and by far
+the the most important week of his life, with a tenacity like fever-born
+visions, passed through and occupied his mind again and yet again. The
+bright image of Fern Fenwick was the central figure of each event, her
+grace and beauty was its chief point of interest.</p>
+
+<p>At her unrivaled cottage home he had been the honored guest to whom she
+had paid her undivided attention. Thanks to her wonderful mediumship, he
+no longer felt himself an orphan&mdash;the gateway of death was also the
+gateway of life. His father and mother had been restored to him, joined
+again to his life&mdash;his heritage of immortality assured! The truth had
+been made plain to him that the people of the two worlds were joined by
+everlasting ties of love and sympathy into the one great flood of
+humanity, all human beings, all immortal spirits, incarnate, excarnate.</p>
+
+<p>Again, to Fern's mediumship he owed his acquaintance with Fennimore
+Fenwick, whom he had learned to know, to admire, to love and respect as
+the highest type of a wise, great and noble man. How fortunate he was in
+having so many opportunities for learning from such a great master! He
+prophesied then and there, that the gratitude of coming generations was
+to bear witness to the power, wisdom and eloquence of Fennimore Fenwick's teachings.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span></p><p>How the memory of all these things swelled the tide of love for Fern
+Fenwick, in the heart of Fillmore Flagg. How bright and amiable, how
+gloriously beautiful she was. How kind and gracious she was to him, and
+what a delightful deference she paid to his opinions! Would he ever
+again experience another week so full of unalloyed happiness? He had but
+to close his eyes&mdash;a radiant vision of Fern Fenwick was before him,
+thrilling his heart with hope, urging him forward to the goal of duty.
+With a sigh he thought of the coming journey. For one blissful week, in
+the light of her angelic eyes, in the radiance of her loveliness, in the
+subtle charm of her magnetic presence, he had basked as in the sunshine
+of paradise: now the hour of parting was approaching, he must not allow
+himself to be despondent, that would be unmanly; he must hope, wait, and
+work. Surely his star of destiny augured well for his future. Doubt he
+could not; doubt he would not! Yes, he would banish all thought of
+parting. He would think of the work, of its demands, of how Fern had
+helped him to prepare for it. Oh how proud he was of the peerless girl
+that had grown so dear to him! As he recalled the many hours they had
+spent together in discussing the plans of Fennimore Fenwick; as applied
+to the several stages of development of the model farm, how he had
+admired and appreciated Fern's brilliant ideas, her pertinent
+suggestions, her wonderful power to foresee administrative difficulties
+and to provide most efficiently against them. How well these
+accomplishments attested the high order of her intellectual training;
+how perfectly they demonstrated the astuteness of her power of thought,
+when applied to practical subjects. With such mental and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span> spiritual
+attributes, supplemented and intensified by the deep inspiration and the
+awe inspiring majesty of her mediumship, how immeasurably superior she
+appeared when compared with other women. What problem in life so knotty
+that she could not solve? With the aid of such a matchless woman, how
+could he fail in the work before him?</p>
+
+<p>Together Fern and Fillmore had examined many maps for the purpose of
+deciding on the particular states to be inspected during the coming
+tour. The great south-west seemed to offer the best field for choosing.
+The Indian lands, just coming into market, were not to be ignored. They
+were located in a climate that would promote the growth of a large
+variety of crops, therefore were especially desirable. Much time was
+spent by them in going over these important questions very carefully.
+Fennimore Fenwick, from time to time, had given his opinion on many
+doubtful points. Now everything was settled. Tomorrow Fillmore Flagg was
+to start for the rich lands of the great west and south-west, with
+careful instructions to keep Fern Fenwick informed, by frequent letters,
+of his progress and whereabouts. Whenever a particular plot of ground
+was selected, Fern was to send him a certified check for its purchase.
+This plan was to be followed until all of the desired plots had been
+secured. The preparatory work on the model farm was then to be commenced.</p>
+
+<p>On the eve of his departure, Fillmore Flagg in reviewing these
+arrangements, began to perceive that many days must pass before he could
+hope to see Fern Fenwick again. The intensity of his love for her urged
+an immediate declaration, that he might know his fate before commencing
+his long journey;<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span> on the other hand, prudence counselled a more patient
+waiting and wooing as the only safe and honorable course for him to
+pursue, as to declare his love at this time would be, under all the
+circumstances which had made him a guest at the cottage, taking an
+unfair advantage of the confidence and hospitality of his charming
+hostess, who had become so inexpressibly dear to him. Yes, he would take
+up the burden of his work, full of confidence in the wisdom and
+watchfulness of his guiding star. Hope whispered in his heart: "Fern's
+destiny is so closely interwoven with thine own, that no fear of the
+future need disturb thee; in peace and contentment await thou the
+fulfillment of thy brightest hopes."</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, in the heart of Fern Fenwick, the impression left by the
+events of the week, were marked and apparent even to herself. A change
+in her regard for Fillmore Flagg was manifest. He was so capable, so
+loyal to her, and to her interests; and withal so intensely in love with
+her, that in turn her admiration for him grew apace&mdash;in fact she did not
+attempt to hold it in check. She adored an honest frankness as much as
+she despised smooth deceit. She knew that Fillmore Flagg was the soul of
+honor and that she could trust him under all circumstances, else her
+father would not have chosen him to be her worthy and trusted assistant
+in the work. In manly beauty he was very near to her ideal; in nobleness
+of heart, intellectual development and training, he was her equal:
+therefore it was but natural for her to bestow glances of encouragement
+on a lover so attractive, so cultured, so unselfish and so ardent.
+Perhaps she had met her fate! However, before dismissing the subject,
+she decided at the first opportunity to call the attention of her father
+and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span> mother to the matter and ask their advice, which would govern her
+course in the future. She felt that whatever the advice might be, in any
+event, it would not mar or blight her true happiness.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XVII.</h2>
+
+<h3>SOLARIS FARM.</h3>
+
+<p>One year from the time Fillmore Flagg left Fairy Fern Cottage on his
+trip to the west, we find him at "Solaris Farm," the title chosen for
+the model or experimental co-operative farm. The location was nearly
+midway, on one of the through lines of railway which connect St. Louis,
+the great central city of the Mississippi valley, with the gulf and
+inland cities of the mammoth state of Texas.</p>
+
+<p>The land was beautifully located, the soil was rich and easy to
+cultivate. The entire tract was well watered by a fine, clear, swift
+flowing stream. In extent, the farm comprised ten sections, laying
+compactly together, and making in all, 6,400 acres of choice land. Nine
+of the sections formed a perfect square, each of the four sides being
+three miles in length. The tenth section joined the west line of the
+south-west section in the square, which made the south line of the farm
+four miles in length. The railroad passed through the farm near the
+north line of the southern tier of sections, touching on the way an
+ideal site for the farm village. About four thousand acres of the land
+was broad, rolling prairie, combined with a large proportion of
+unusually rich river<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span> bottom, both well adapted to the growth of a great
+variety of crops. The remainder of the farm presented a rough, broken
+surface, with a soil not so rich, sometimes quite poor and gravelly, but
+being protected by a great bend in the river, was well covered by a
+valuable growth of timber. The surface of the roughest ground covered
+large deposits of lead, zinc, mica and several varieties of choice clay.
+Numerous bold bluffs contained fine quarries of excellent stone for
+building purposes, also for an abundant supply of lime and cement. A
+number of the ridges offered unlimited quantities of gravel and sand.
+Here and there several rich veins of a very good quality of bituminous coal cropped out.</p>
+
+<p>In making his preliminary examination, the quick eye of Fillmore Flagg
+soon discovered that this eighteen-hundred-acre tract, of what the
+owners considered their poorest lands, marred and disfigured by a tangle
+of undergrowth, a confusion of unsightly rocks, gullies and bluffs; was
+in reality a treasure, a vast store of choice material for coming needs.
+When the ten sections, including this broken tract, were offered for the
+lump sum of thirty two thousand dollars, Fillmore Flagg quickly closed
+the bargain. He was confident that at last, after many weeks of patient
+searching, a most desirable site for the initial farm had been secured,
+at the low average price of five dollars per acre. No wonder he was
+elated and proud of his achievement! The remaining lands of the township
+were sparsely settled by about fifty families, generally occupying large ranches.</p>
+
+<p>Acting on Fern Fenwick's advice, as soon as the site of the model farm
+was chosen, Fillmore Flagg prepared an advertisement for publication in
+three<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span> of the leading spiritual papers, setting forth the purposes of
+the organization, together with the requirements necessary for
+membership. The applications which soon followed were so numerous that
+at the end of the first three months he had been able to complete a very
+choice selection for the colony. Before the end of the next three
+months, he had placed them on the farm, prepared for active work.</p>
+
+<p>In the accomplishment of this remarkable feat in so short a time, he had
+the able assistance of his trusted friends, George and Gertrude Gerrish,
+who were, from the beginning, most thoroughly in sympathy with him and
+eager to join him in the work. Fillmore Flagg had known them from
+childhood and had learned to appreciate them as progressive people of
+the most pronounced type, who were honest, courageous, and gifted to a
+high degree with the power to win the love and confidence of all who knew them.</p>
+
+<p>George and Gertrude Gerrish were born and reared on Nebraska farms, near
+the home of Fillmore Flagg. George was thirty-five; Gertrude, younger by
+three years. They had been married fifteen years and were noted as a
+handsome couple, being large, tall, straight and finely formed, with
+strong, even temperaments. Their only son, Gilbert, was a delicate lad,
+in his fourteenth year, handsome, spirituelle and intellectual to a
+remarkable degree. He was a real genius, passionately fond of books, art
+and music; already an accomplished player on both the piano and violin.
+Yet withal, he was very reticent, sensitive and shy, on account of his
+small size and deformed body, the result of spinal trouble caused by a
+fall while an infant.</p>
+
+<p>The Gerrish family, for the eight years previous,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span> had resided in St.
+Louis, where George and Gertrude were employed as teachers. When
+Fillmore Flagg made them a visit while on his way west from Newburgh, he
+was both surprised and delighted to find them spiritualists.</p>
+
+<p>They at once became interested in his mission, and his plans for the
+establishment of a model co-operative farm. At his urgent request, they
+promised to move at once to the farm, whenever located, in order to be
+prepared to receive the colonists properly as soon as they should
+commence to assemble. This promise Fillmore Flagg considered a most
+extraordinary piece of good fortune, and so it proved.</p>
+
+<p>As a result of this wisely planned co-operative work, at the end of the
+first six months, a carefully selected, most efficient colony, of five
+hundred adults and one hundred and fifty children, had been assembled
+and organized; the business of the incorporation completed; the stock
+all taken; the officers chosen and a general plan of the work prepared.</p>
+
+<p>George Gerrish was chosen as President of the Solaris Farm Company,
+Fillmore Flagg was made trustee and general manager. The members of the
+company were young and strong, accustomed to farm labor, full of
+enthusiasm for pushing forward the work. They were all wide awake and
+progressive, quick to perceive and appreciate the importance and
+advantage of applying co-operative thought and co-operative work to
+systematic farming on a large scale. They were thoroughly in earnest and
+equally determined to make the model farm a complete success. With such
+an army of vigorous, intelligent workers, it was easy to accomplish
+before the close of the first year, the magical changes which had been
+effected at the farm.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span></p><p>The land had all been surveyed, examined and tested; the farm carefully
+subdivided and platted, with a view to keeping a complete record, which
+should include a debit and credit account with each subdivision. The
+size and boundaries of these tracts were determined with reference to
+the capacity of the soil to best produce certain kinds or crops of
+grains, grasses, vegetables, vines, berries, fruits or trees. The crests
+of ridges, and all rough, gravelly lands, were set apart for timber,
+fruit and vineyard culture; the separate areas to be devoted to these
+three classes were carefully calculated, described and marked on the
+plat. The number of roads required to connect the various fields and
+subdivisions with the village, were laid out and made passable by
+building the necessary bridges.</p>
+
+<p>The site selected for the village was quite near to the railroad, and
+large enough to give abundant space for future factories, shops, lawns
+and ornamental pleasure grounds. The whole was graded, well drained and
+artistically laid out around the four sides of a spacious central
+square. A large, well constructed freight and passenger station, of
+Solaris brick, was built and established at the most convenient point on
+the railroad. In this building were the post office, express office and
+telegraph office, all in excellent business form and perfect working order.</p>
+
+<p>The manufacture of brick had been one of the first industries developed
+at the farm. An inexhaustable supply of most excellent clay had been
+discovered just at the edge of the village site, and speedily connected
+with it by a short tramway. From this clay the product of Solaris brick
+proved in every way desirable. In form, color, size and design, they
+were much superior to ordinary brick. With them,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span> the builder could, in
+one half the time, with less cement, construct walls that were thick,
+solid and durable, yet presenting beautiful surfaces both inside and
+outside. These walls would remain for many years in perfect sanitary
+condition, kept free from dampness by the dry air circulation, due to
+the constructive design of the brick. The very fine appearance of the
+new railroad station, so advertised the beauty and excellence of Solaris
+brick, that orders from abroad soon came pouring in. To fill these
+orders without delaying the work on the village buildings, it became
+necessary to double the size of the brick-making plant; also to increase
+the number of workers. The unexpected development of such a large and
+profitable allied industry, at almost the first stage of the preparatory
+work at the farm, so encouraged Fillmore Flagg and his co-workers, so
+stimulated and quickened the spirit of inventive genius, that thereafter
+the efficiency and capacity of the machinery kept pace with the steadily
+increasing demand for brick, that too without further adding to the
+working force or to the size of the plant.</p>
+
+<p>A deeper excavation of the clay beds brought to light a much finer class
+of clays, which proved so excellent for the purposes of manufacturing
+general pottery, terra cotta ware, drain tiles and sewer pipe, that in
+connection with the brick works, a factory for making that kind of
+material was at once put in operation. The tramway was extended a half
+mile further from the village to reach the newly-opened stone quarries
+and coal mines, passing on the way large deposits of sand and gravel. By
+means of the tramway, an abundant supply of all kinds of the necessary
+materials could be placed on the building site very quickly. The best of
+stone for the foundations,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span> quantities of brick, lime, sand and cement
+were at hand, waiting for the builder. All this made possible the swift
+construction of superior buildings, equipped with all of the modern
+improvements, including artistic ornamentation.</p>
+
+<p>As a result, before the expiration of the first six months after the
+arrival of the co-operators, the following buildings had been completed
+and were ready for use: On the south side of the public square, fronting
+north; one large mill for grinding flour and feed; one extensive
+building, large enough to be occupied as a saw mill and planing mill,
+machine, carpenter, repair and blacksmith shop all combined. On the
+north side of the square, fronting south; one large three story and
+basement block of apartment houses, sufficiently capacious to
+accommodate eight hundred people. The three upper stories were high
+enough to afford twelve-foot ceilings between the floors. The rooms were
+large, well lighted, well ventilated, and so arranged on each floor as
+to offer to every family a parlor, sitting room, dining room, two bed
+rooms, one bath room, and a kitchen. The basement of the entire block
+was furnished and fitted to be used as a restaurant, with the necessary
+dining rooms, kitchens, furnace rooms, store rooms and cellars. The
+light frame dwellings, located on one of the rear streets, which had
+given a temporary shelter to the people until the completion of the
+apartment house, were now utilized as work rooms, seed rooms, assorting
+rooms, store rooms, and for dairy and apiary purposes. On the west side
+of the square, fronting east, just across the corner from the apartment
+house, the well-appointed hall of Education and Amusement was erected.
+It was three stories high, seventy five feet wide, and one hundred<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span> and
+fifty feet long. The upper story was entirely devoted to the library,
+assembly and amusement hall, with its large stage, numerous offices and
+ante rooms. The lower rooms were arranged to be used for the business
+offices of the farm, the spacious school rooms for its one hundred and
+fifty children, the printing office and editorial rooms of the press
+club, and the eleven additional club rooms reserved for the use of the
+adults. On the same side of the square, fronting eastward and separated
+from the hall of amusement and education by one hundred feet of space,
+was the Solaris company store; four stories high, two hundred feet wide,
+two hundred feet long, built around three sides of a beautifully
+arranged rose and flower garden. The two lower stories were used to
+display a large stock of general merchandise, while the upper stories
+were occupied by the force engaged in the manufacture of general
+clothing, underwear, and in tailoring and dress making. All of these
+fine structures were built of Solaris brick, with cut stone foundations;
+the ornamental brick used in the fronts were especially designed for the
+purpose and proved wonderfully effective. In every particular the
+buildings were a credit to the company, being beautifully planned,
+skillfully constructed, and located with due regard for architectural
+effect. From the preparation of the stone, the making of the brick, lime
+and mortar, to the final completion of the buildings, including the
+making and laying of the sewer pipes, nineteen-twentieths of the total
+cost was represented by the labor of the co-operators. Of course they
+were led and taught by a few skilled workmen, directed by Fillmore
+Flagg, who had prepared the plans. The remarkable success achieved,
+proved a good lesson in the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span> economics of co-operation, of the utmost
+significance and value; a lesson which filled the hearts of the members
+of the company with pride and joy, riveted and clinched their devotion
+to the model farm and opened their eyes to the possibilities of the future.</p>
+
+<p>Having finished this first series of buildings for immediate use,
+attention was given to the matter of improving the appearance of the
+public square. In the center of the broad, smooth green, stood the tall,
+straight flag-pole; from its top floated the stars and stripes. Eastward
+from the foot of the flag-staff, and slightly raised above the grassy
+surface of the smoothly shaven lawn, was spread a living flag in true
+colors, red, white and blue. This flag was of magnificent proportions,
+twenty-five feet in width by fifty feet in length, and presented such an
+effective appearance that it soon became the pride and delight of the
+farm children, an object of never failing interest, a beautiful living
+motto which expressed their appreciation of patriotism.</p>
+
+<p>While the building operations were being pushed forward, a carefully
+selected force of workers had been equally busy in making numerous
+agricultural improvements. Two thousand acres of virgin soil had been
+broken up and prepared for planting. One hundred acres of the best of
+this newly upturned soil, so clean and free from weeds, had been planted
+with a well selected series of vegetables, capable of producing a
+remunerative crop of assorted garden seeds. The series included all of
+the best known varieties with the addition of several new ones. As a
+result of skillful culture and favorable conditions, a great many tons
+of choice seeds had been grown, gathered and prepared for market. Large
+propagating gardens had been fitted and seeded with <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span>reference to the
+future demands of fruit and forestry culture. An abundant supply of all
+kinds of vegetables for farm use had been grown and stored. Goodly crops
+of corn, oats and potatoes, grown and harvested. Plenty of hay cut,
+cured and housed. Pastures, roomy enough to accommodate large herds of
+horses and cattle, securely enclosed, supplied with water and the proper
+shelter. Small herds of fine cattle and horses secured and well provided
+for. These herds were selected chiefly for breeding purposes, while a
+sufficient number of mules were purchased for the needs of the farm
+work. The bees in the well stocked apiary had already gathered a fine
+supply of honey from the wild flowers of the surrounding prairies. The
+extensive yards and buildings prepared for poultry farming on an
+unusually large scale, were so well stocked and in such fine condition
+as to promise large profits at an early day.</p>
+
+<p>In reviewing the work at the close of the first year, which included
+many important items not yet enumerated, the general results were so
+satisfactory that the officers and members of the Solaris Farm Company
+were very much encouraged. Owing to sales of seeds and brick in such
+considerable quantities, together with the manufacture at the farm of
+almost every kind of building material, the sum advanced by Fern
+Fenwick, the patroness, for farm buildings and equipment was less than
+one-half the amount named in Fillmore Flagg's estimate. The amount
+required for the coming year would be very much less.</p>
+
+<p>The general plan provided for and embraced the supplementing of
+agricultural work by a series of allied manufactures, such as naturally
+grew out of the needs of the farm: carpentering, blacksmithing,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span> machine
+work and repairing, furniture making, turning, polishing, painting,
+staining and general wood working and finishing, pattern making, broom
+and brush making, a factory for spinning rope and cordage, basket and
+all kinds of osier weaving, brick making, pottery and all kinds of clay
+or porcelain work; together with many other things that would suggest
+themselves as time passed and the capacity of the farm was increased by
+the invention of better machinery and superior methods.</p>
+
+<p>The application of inventive genius on the part of the co-operators to
+operations at the brick works and pottery, had already proved equal to
+the demands of any emergency which might arise. The great variety of
+these added employments would afford a pleasant change from the monotony
+and routine of ordinary farm work. They could be pursued sometimes for
+weeks together, when legitimate farm work would be out of season, in
+this way so greatly increasing the products and profits of the farm,
+that the bonanza farm of the capitalist, which depended on wheat growing
+alone for profits, could no longer successfully compete.</p>
+
+<p>After much discussion by the board of management and the officers of the
+company, it was decided with the unanimous consent of the membership,
+that eight hours should be considered a day's work&mdash;six hours for the
+farm work, with two hours additional to be devoted to such of the
+manufacturing works as the member might choose. This course proved
+entirely satisfactory; it soon gave to the farm an able corps of skilled
+workmen, at the same time augmenting the collective power of the
+membership to do more effective co-operative thinking for the
+advancement of the best interests and general welfare of all.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span></p><p>In the matter of wages, a uniform price of three dollars per day was
+fixed for each member of the company; this amount was diminished by
+deducting ten per cent for the sinking fund, five per cent for the
+general service fund, and five cents daily from each member for the
+special fund. The special fund was for the purposes of education and
+amusement. After subtracting these deductions, two dollars and fifty
+cents were left as the net per diem pay of each one. The assessments
+provided the goodly sum of $54,000 00 annually for the sinking fund,
+$27,000 00 for the general service fund, and $9,000 00 for the special fund.</p>
+
+<p>The Solaris Farm company was incorporated for ninety-nine years, with a
+provision for re-incorporation at the expiration of that period. This
+provision practically made the company a perpetual institution. The
+stock of the company was capitalized at $250,000 00, and divided into
+one thousand shares, with a par value of $250 00 each. The number of
+share holders or subscribers was limited to five hundred adults, about
+two hundred and fifty couples or families; at the end of five years, two
+shares of stock were issued to each subscriber, male or female, married
+or single. This stock, however, could not be issued until $45,000 00 had
+been paid into the sinking fund. With the issue of the stock, the
+purchase price of the farm should be paid from the sinking fund to
+Fillmore Flagg, the trustee, who would then deed the farm to the
+corporation. Thereafter the company was to maintain a sinking fund amply
+sufficient to provide such additional farms as the children of its
+members might need.</p>
+
+<p>In accordance with his instructions from Fennimore Fenwick, the money
+received in this way by<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span> Fillmore Flagg, was to be held by him as a
+trust for the purchase of other farms. It was further provided that the
+Solaris Farm company retained the sole right to purchase all stock which
+might be offered for sale.</p>
+
+<p>The general service fund was to be used in defraying the expense of
+stocking, equipping and improving the farm.</p>
+
+<p>It was also determined that settlements made with members, who from any
+cause might wish to leave the company, should be made on a basis of two
+dollars and fifty cents per day for the time they had been co-operators,
+with the return of whatever capital they might have invested plus
+interest at three per cent per annum; all stock subscribed for to return
+to the company's treasury.</p>
+
+<p>The general plan further provided for the erection of separate cottages,
+with small gardens adjoining, for the use and occupancy of such families
+as might desire them. The apartment house, now completed, had many of
+its suites of rooms arranged for independent housekeeping, but so far,
+the members of the company preferred to take their meals at the company
+restaurant, paying for them the ordinary prices. They also preferred to
+patronize the laundry, general clothing, tailoring and dress-making
+departments which were connected with the company store. To prevent any
+conflict with the commercial interests of the outside world, the
+restaurant and the company store sold food and goods at the ruling
+market prices for first-class articles, realizing that it was plainly
+the policy of the company to keep only the best of everything for
+sale&mdash;the generous profits from all sales to go as a general
+contribution from the entire membership to the insurance fund for the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span>
+helpless and the aged. As liberal wages afforded ample means, large
+purchases were encouraged, and all tendency toward a miserly hoarding
+was discouraged. It was marked that all the members were quick to
+appreciate the fact that the more liberal their purchases, the more
+generously they swelled the fund that was set apart to provide for the
+needs and happiness of declining years. With each passing month it was
+observed that this particular feature of insurance continued to grow in popular favor.</p>
+
+<p>To enable the company to dispense with a great deal of expensive
+bookkeeping, to do business with a small amount of actual cash, and at
+the same time add another check against the disposition to hoard money;
+the payment of wages to the members of the company was made in Solaris
+scrip, good at its face value for all purchases made from the company.
+Whenever cash was needed by any of the members, an order on the
+treasurer drawn by the president and approved by the general manager,
+could easily be obtained for reasonable amounts. On presentation of the
+order, U. S. legal tenders to the amount specified, would be exchanged
+for the scrip, dollar for dollar; the treasurer cancelling this scrip by
+stamping across its face the date of the exchange and the name of the
+member, retaining the cancelled scrip as his voucher for the
+disbursement of the money. When scrip was exchanged at the store for
+goods, it was cancelled in the same way by the manager of the store. The
+plan seemed to work without friction and gave general satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>At the beginning of each month an executive committee, composed of three
+men and three women, was chosen by the members of the company. This
+committee, with the general manager as chairman,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span> made an order of work
+for each day and assigned the members to the different kinds of work
+named in the order. These assignments were always accepted cheerfully.
+The co-operators without exception and without murmur worked steadily
+and with zeal for one common result. They were keenly alive to both the
+importance and the advantages of this new kind of co-operative work,
+which gave them so many hours of leisure for rest and recreation. With
+the experience of each passing month, they realized more than ever
+before that sixteen hours out of the twenty-four so devoted, soon
+stimulated and reinforced the vital energies to such an extent that
+active labor seemed really desirable. As a matter of fact, each day they
+began to look forward eagerly to the six hours of farm work and the two
+hours additional of skilled labor, as opportunities which gave them
+refreshing and delightful exercise. Exercise that was necessary to
+promote health and happiness&mdash;exercise which left them with an added
+relish and brighter mental conditions for the enjoyment of the hours of
+study and amusement that were to follow. Here again, the wisdom of
+nature's law of compensation was demonstrated. A grave question of the
+utmost importance to the progress of mankind was for them forever
+settled. The discovery had dawned on the minds of these people that
+labor, no longer a curse, was in reality nature's richest blessing!</p>
+
+<p>Among the more important improvements on the farm which Fillmore Flagg
+had carefully planned, was the necessary preparatory work on the large
+propagating gardens, located near the river, not far from the village.
+In connection with the construction of the village water works, at the
+time of the grading and sewering of the village grounds, these<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span> gardens
+were furnished with a complete system of irrigating pipes. These,
+together with the thousands of pots required at a later period, were
+made in the pottery at the brick works&mdash;another product of farm labor.
+With such a complete control of the necessary moisture, the sprouting
+process in the long seed beds proved unusually successful. These beds,
+which covered several acres of very rich soil, were thickly planted with
+all kinds of fruit and tree-bearing seeds; together with grape cuttings,
+mulberries for the silkworm culture, quinces, currants, tea plants, a
+great variety of berries, a fine selection of ornamental shrubbery,
+dwarf fruit trees, roses, and many other plants besides. The young
+plants soon reached a stage of growth where potting became necessary in
+order to make them strong, well grown, independent young shoots, ready
+at any time to be transplanted without injury into nursery rows, the
+vineyard or the berry plots.</p>
+
+<p>To pot the contents of these beds required the labor of many hands,
+consequently the task furnished a pleasant, congenial employment for a
+major part of the female co-operators. A large, well floored, wide
+roofed shed was constructed just at the edge of the gardens nearest the
+village. It was wide enough to accommodate two rows of roomy tables, and
+of a length sufficient for fifty tables in each row. Adjoining the end
+of the potting shed towards the village, was the storehouse, containing
+quantities of prepared soil and a large supply of assorted pots. A
+double track system of narrow tramways passed between the rows of
+tables, on its way from the storehouse to the different seed beds in all
+parts of the garden. On this tramway the little cars came from the
+storehouse to the tables, laden with<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span> supplies of pots and prepared
+soil; these they exchanged for trays of potted plants to be returned to
+the seed beds. In returning from the gardens on the other track, they
+brought cargoes of shallow trays filled with little plantlets just
+lifted from the seed beds. This cargo-bearing process, on the part of
+the tram cars, continued throughout the day as often as required, making
+light work for all concerned. To witness the work under the shed as it
+goes bravely on is a pleasing sight. Let us pause a moment to enjoy it.</p>
+
+<p>At each table are two operators, who may sit or stand while they work.
+Protected by strong gloves, the deft fingers swiftly fly&mdash;the long,
+double lines of maidens and matrons are as merry as crickets! The buzz
+of musical chatter, song and story, inspires the work, fitting time with
+swift pinions and transforming such toil into six hours of fun and frolic!</p>
+
+<p>This class of work proved so charming that a majority of the women
+preferred it to employment in the apiary, dairy, nursery, school,
+office, restaurant, or any department of the company store.</p>
+
+<p>With this glimpse of the general development of Solaris Farm, its
+improvements and its people, during the first year, we discover that
+Fillmore Flagg has been a very busy man; that his skill, inventive
+genius, and executive ability have been tried severely; that he has been
+able to respond to the demands of every occasion. However, such was his
+confidence in the wisdom of Fern Fenwick, that when he found himself
+puzzled or in doubt, he relied largely on her advice to suggest some
+proper solution for each vexing question. He had, from the beginning,
+furnished her with a complete history of every stage of the development
+of the farm, along<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span> with his weekly reports. At the close of each one he
+gave a list of topics on which her opinions were solicited; the
+suggestions in her replies led to such a speedy unraveling of the
+tangled situations and troublesome questions, that Fillmore Flagg was
+impressed more than ever, with her excellent judgment and the brilliancy
+of her genius. His admiration grew; his love grew faster! In his
+personal letters, transmitting the weekly reports, the expression of
+these sentiments of admiration and adoration continued to grow in force
+and fervor until he finally gained courage to request permission to
+address her as a lover: a lover whose happiness would be largely
+increased by every effort he might make to put in words the thoughts
+born of his devotion to her&mdash;the one adorable woman in the world, for him.</p>
+
+<p>In her reply, Fern Fenwick frankly stated that she was inclined to
+consider his request with some degree of favor. That she had sought
+advice from her parents. That in response her father, Fennimore Fenwick,
+had expressed himself as convinced of the integrity, honesty, and purity
+of Fillmore's love for her; but he could not consent to an engagement
+binding his daughter to marriage, until the unqualified success of the
+model farm, at the end of the first five years, had demonstrated the
+worthiness of Fillmore Flagg. After that event, if both continued to
+desire a marriage engagement, his consent might be considered as
+assured. Her mother, she said, had repeated and emphasized her father's
+advice: this advice she felt in duty bound to heed and respect.
+Therefore, on the conditions named, she was willing to accept him as a
+lover, with the distinct understanding however, that he must not claim
+her hand in marriage until after the achievement of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span> the complete
+success of Solaris Farm.</p>
+
+<p>In the postscript at the close of her letter, Fern adroitly, though
+perhaps innocently, lighted the torch of hope in the heart of Fillmore
+Flagg by archly expressing herself as follows: "Henceforth my personal
+interest in the progress and final success of the model farm will, no
+doubt, fully equal your own."</p>
+
+<p>This little postscript was a never failing source of comfort and
+encouragement to Fillmore Flagg. He read it and re-read it again and
+again: in his ecstacy he caught himself kissing it a dozen times the
+first week after it reached him. With each reading his hitherto dormant
+love nature gathered force and intensity. In the throbbing tide of
+joyful emotions, he was suffused with a strange new happiness. He
+blushed like a girl as the certainty came home to his heart that at last
+his love for this beautiful woman was returned. It may be marked as
+noteworthy that this important letter came to Fillmore Flagg just eight
+months after his parting with Fern Fenwick at her cottage home on the
+Hudson. While meditating and luxuriating under the spell of the happy
+significance of this event, as affecting his future life, he thanked his
+angel friends for so successfully speeding his wooing. With this
+assurance he was confident that at last his star of destiny was dominant
+in the sky of love. Calmly serene, he could now await the approach of
+whatever trials in life the future might have in store for him. Nothing
+could shake him from this fortress of love! Nothing could intervene to
+separate his life from the life of his beloved Fern! With a sigh of
+contentment, he prepared to devote himself more ambitiously and more
+industriously than ever before, to the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span>development of Solaris Farm. He
+wooed every inventive thought; he planned night and day to overcome all
+obstacles that presented themselves. In his letters to Fern Fenwick,
+rejoicing in a freedom to express himself without restraint on the
+limitless theme of his great love for her, he filled page after page
+with eloquent adoration of his heart's chosen one&mdash;his highest ideal of
+the glorious perfection of womanhood. The effect on Fillmore Flagg of
+this fervent, all-absorbing love, was most excellent; it broadened and
+purified his life, eliminating from it all the dross of selfishness. He
+took a new interest in the lives of every married couple and every pair
+of lovers on the farm. By persevering effort, tact and skill, he
+completely won their confidence. He shared their hopes, plans, joys,
+sorrows, loves and crosses. In all this he never once failed to increase
+their love for him and their devotion to the farm.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>CLUB LIFE AT SOLARIS.</h3>
+
+<p>In the work of building up in the minds of the co-operators, an abiding
+faith in Solaris Farm and its future success, Fillmore Flagg had the
+able support of George and Gertrude Gerrish. They had proved themselves
+the right people in the right place! In the schools and nursery Gertrude
+had become invaluable. Her genial temperament, her fondness for
+children, the kindly influence of her great mother-heart, with its never
+failing store of sympathy, patience, tact and skill, all attested that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span>
+she was a natural teacher whose presence among the children was a
+perpetual benefaction, while the wonderful store of her personal
+magnetism brought her the love, respect and obedience of both the old
+and the young. They instinctively felt her power to make them wiser,
+better and happier. This was a well merited tribute of praise, worth a
+king's ransom in gold!</p>
+
+<p>George Gerrish soon became very popular on account of the extraordinary
+ability he displayed in organizing the members of the farm company into
+the numerous clubs devised to promote the interests of education,
+science and amusement. The description which follows will serve to
+illustrate his skill as an organizer in carrying out the general plan
+prepared by Fillmore Flagg. In addition they will give a clear idea of
+the scope and variety of the talent developed, together with a proper
+conception of the splendid equipment of the farm for the social,
+educational, ethical and scientific development of its people.</p>
+
+<p>First in order came the Press Club. To it was assigned the duty of
+editing and publishing the "<span class="smcap">Solaris Sentinel</span>," a weekly paper devoted to
+the interests of the farm. It was filled with topics of general interest
+to the community; themes, essays, poems, personals and social notices
+contributed by the club members, suggestions and ideas leading to better
+methods for the care and culture of the farm stock and crops, also as to
+preparing, the same for market. The range of topics included hints
+regarding any of the allied manufacturing industries which were carried
+forward by the farm company. In addition the paper gave full weekly
+reports from the officers of the different clubs. The literary budget<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span>
+for each week was completed by selections from the general contribution
+box, a very large one, which was fastened to the outer door of the rooms
+of the club. Into this box every man, woman and child was invited to
+drop such written scraps, signed or unsigned, brief or lengthy, as they
+might be moved to offer for publication. The selections from this box
+were eagerly read. They often proved surprisingly brilliant, novel or
+suggestive, frequently disclosing rare literary merit,&mdash;altogether
+constituting the most popular department of the paper. The editorials
+were carefully prepared and well written. They were usually along lines
+of co-operative work; its desirability as an encouragement to
+unselfishness, and also to show how the work might best improve social,
+industrial and political conditions. The volume and excellence of the
+reading matter thus produced, was marked by general comment as a matter
+of astonishment. The unstinted praise which it elicited reflected much
+credit on the club: therefore to be chosen a member was a coveted honor
+which was reserved for the meritorious few.</p>
+
+<p>The Dancing Club, in point of popularity, was the most successful of
+all, and deservedly so. Its membership embraced the entire colony, both
+old and young who, one and all, seemed to enter into the spirit of the
+movement with a zealous abandon, a united joyousness, most delightful to
+behold. The social ties which bound them together, grew and strengthened
+with the recurrence of each meeting. On two afternoons of each week, the
+club teachers gave two-hour lessons or drills to all who might desire
+them. On three evenings of each week, in the large hall of education and
+amusement, two and one-half hours were devoted to dancing, in which all
+the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span> members took part. These evening dances proved so fascinating that
+as a rule very few members were ever noted as being absent. An attack of
+illness which prevented the attendance of a member, must be desperate
+indeed. In the matter of general improvement the results were most
+excellent. To bestow perfect deportment, dignified control of the body
+and limbs, with an easy, graceful movement on all occasions, there is
+nothing like dancing. To eliminate the depressing effects of grief,
+mental or business cares, harassing trials of temper, physical
+exhaustion, or disturbed spiritual equilibrium, dancing is a remedy of
+marvelous potency. For the key to the reason why this is true, we are
+indebted to the wonderful discoveries in psychology and psychurgy made
+by that able scientist, renowned thinker and brilliant writer, Professor
+Elmer Gates. The following is a very brief statement of his reasons as
+to how and why the emotions of the individual affect the vital forces of life:</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>"The human body is a collection of co-operative cells, more or less
+intelligent and responsive, therefore an important part of the
+thinking machine which is acted upon by the superior mind of the
+brain. The superior mind is in turn reacted upon by the automatic
+metabolism set up in the cells. Automatic metabolism of the cell,
+is its ability to carry on within itself the various processes of
+life that may be necessary to best fit it for the performance of
+special functions, as a particular part of the co-operative body.
+Violent emotions of anger, hate, despair and grief, are katabolic,
+poisonous and harmful; they tear down and destroy life. The
+poisonous deposits left in the cells by these emotions are called
+'katastates.' Laughter and merriment, with all the emotions of
+pleasure, adoration, worship, love, affection, hope, beauty, etc.,
+are 'anabolic,' or life-preserving. The vital, health-giving
+deposits left in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span> the cells by these emotions are called
+'anastates.' Nature accomplishes her perfect work by beautiful
+methods. The cells are fed and sustained by the circulation of the
+blood; they are reached from the smaller branching arteries by a
+network of minute, thread-like channels, sometimes called
+'arterioles.' These arterioles are accompanied by the equally fine
+wires of the nervous system, closely connected with the brain
+centers. These wires are electrified by the emotions; they expand
+the arterioles, and the cells are flooded with an unusual supply of
+blood; thus they are correspondingly vitalized or poisoned,
+according to the kind of the dominant emotion, its duration and its
+intensity."</p></blockquote>
+
+<p>From the foregoing we readily perceive that the joyful emotions stirred
+by that poetical trinity, the melody, the rythm and motion of dancing,
+arouses the circulation so potently that every cell in the body tingles
+with its superabundance of vitality; both the heart and the brain
+respond to the invigorating tide, while its precious freight of
+anastates is vivifying and thrilling every cell. These happifying
+emotions soon become permanently dominant, the depressing emotions grow
+weaker, fade away and disappear. The individual is vitalized and
+rejuvenated! We begin to understand that when properly indulged in,
+dancing is the most fascinating, healthful and helpful of all the
+amusements. The Solaris Farm people were both fascinated and benefited
+by the dancing exercises so generously provided by the club; the growing
+interest and enthusiasm aroused was a matter of astonishment even to
+themselves. With the continuation of the club dances, the intensity of
+the enjoyment and the capacity for it, seemed to increase; this,
+together with the pleasing memories of bygone dances, seemed to bind
+them yet more closely to the destinies of Solaris Farm. Strong,
+straight,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span> lithe figures, happy faces, and eyes shining with the fires
+of perfect health, gave testimony to the efficacy of music and motion as
+applied to physical development. With grateful hearts, these happy
+people realized that this pure font of happiness came to them as the
+result of unselfish, harmonious co-operation.</p>
+
+<p>The effect on Gilbert Gerrish of this universal spirit of gaiety, was as
+marked as it was beneficial. On the raised platform at the head of the
+dancing hall, violin in hand, and surrounded by a chosen few of his
+friends in the musical club, he seemed to grow in stature as he breathed
+in the pervading merriment; living a new life, in which his deformity no
+longer marred his pleasure. Through the association of many months he
+had grown accustomed to the personal magnetism of the farm people. They
+were very proud of him and of his many brilliant accomplishments. This
+all-pervading sentiment of loving pride came to him as a benediction,
+which his refined, sensitive nature graciously absorbed. His shyness and
+reticence disappeared; his face glowed with the flush of happiness; his
+beautiful eyes shone with the fires of a new inspiration. With the hand
+of a master he swept the strings with a bow of magic; new strains of
+sweet, thrilling music stirred the dancers and moved them as one mass to
+the throbbing rythm of the intoxicating melody: a melody so charming
+that none could resist. Filled with the power of a new grace and dignity
+at such moments, Gilbert Gerrish felt a keen triumph in his ability to
+stir the emotional natures of these people whom he loved; to inspire
+them to better deeds and to nobler lives. They, in turn, recognized and
+paid willing homage to a noble soul, a great genius, whose power to sway
+and control them was not in the least <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span>deflected or dimmed by a thought
+of his deformed body. Under the mystic spell of divine music, which
+appeals to the highest aspirations of the human heart; which calls forth
+the hidden forces of the soul: they came in such perfect rapport with
+him in his inner life, that they sensed with soulful eyes the strong,
+radiant, symmetrical spirit shining through the defects and barriers of
+a fleshly prison. Thus transfigured, they saw him, not as he appeared to
+ordinary mortals, but as he really was. To these people of Solaris, this
+transfiguration was lasting. Very soon they came to regard him as a
+talisman of good fortune&mdash;the mascot of the farm.</p>
+
+<p>The Photographic Club, organized by George Gerrish soon after the press
+club with the intention of making it the nucleus of a future art club,
+proved a surprising success at an early stage of its existence. Very
+soon after active work began, fifty members had been enrolled. In
+discussing with the executive committee a general plan of formation,
+Fillmore Flagg remarked that he felt very sure the club would soon prove
+a valuable aid to the farm in the direction of furnishing attractive
+illustrations of the farm itself, its products, stock, fruits and
+flowers, to be used as advertisements. With this in view, he made
+arrangements to provide suitable rooms, large, well lighted and fitted
+for the work, in connection with the construction of an isolated
+building, made as nearly fire-proof as possible which, when finished,
+was to be devoted mainly to the needs of farm experiments in the
+department of agricultural chemistry. The completed rooms, with a large
+lot of cameras of various sizes, together with an abundant supply of
+photographic material, were placed at the disposal of the working
+members of the club. These<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span> things were rightly considered a necessary
+part of an educational outfit. Fillmore Flagg and George Gerrish both
+were skillful photographers: with the wise guidance of two such able
+teachers, the class soon began to produce creditable work. After the
+expiration of a fixed period, in compliance with an imperative club
+rule, each member was obliged to complete all work from start to finish
+without assistance. This would give scope and opportunity for
+expressions of spontaneity and inventive genius in the individual
+treatment of the work, which might tend to the evolution of superior
+methods. It was clearly an advantage for the members to be able to say
+truthfully that photographs produced under such requirements were
+actually the results of their own individual handiwork; from focusing
+the object, timing the exposure of the plate, on through the various
+stages of developing, toning, printing and mounting, up to the final
+process of polishing the finished picture. At the end of each month the
+members individually were required to submit twelve finished photographs
+to the inspection of a committee of five. This committee was composed of
+two ladies and two gentlemen in addition to Fillmore Flagg, who was the
+chairman. From this collection of twelve lot pictures, representing the
+finest work of the club, the committee selected four photographs from
+each lot, which were chosen to become a part of the farm exhibit to be
+displayed on the walls of the library, hall of education and the
+school-rooms. This monthly award for meritorious work acted as a
+wonderful stimulus to all the club members, so increasing their
+ambition, industry and artistic invention, that an ever increasing
+number of delightful surprises followed each monthly examination. In<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span>
+considering the selections as a class, the extent and variety of the
+subjects treated covered a wide range. Among them we may name the
+general and special views of the farm, its buildings, fields of grain,
+corn, cotton and broom corn; bits of forest, meadow or brookside
+landscapes; specimens of the different vegetables and garden products;
+interior views of the different buildings; photographs of groups and of
+individual members of the company; pictures of manufactured articles,
+tableware, ornamental brick and tile work, and general pottery; a great
+variety of cabinet work, furniture and willow ware; splendid photographs
+of horses, mules, cattle, sheep, hogs and poultry, also wild animals and
+birds, singly and in groups; views of trees, streams, roads, bridges and
+railroad trains; enlarged photographs of the insect enemies of farm
+products; others of the birds which prey upon such insects; artistic
+views of seed beds, nursery rows, potting sheds, brick and pottery
+works&mdash;in fact, pictures of every possible aspect of the agricultural
+and manufacturing industries on the farm. Taken together, this
+collection presented a most interesting series for the school rooms,
+which proved an object lesson of great value to both pupil and teacher.
+The landscapes were especially excellent in giving correct ideas of
+distance values in perspective drawing.</p>
+
+<p>As time passed, the inventive genius of the club members began to crop
+out in the repair shop, where they not infrequently, and sometimes much
+to their surprise, found themselves able to construct better and cheaper
+instruments, lenses and attachments than they were able to buy. With
+these improvements they soon achieved success in color photography.
+Later this led to making magnificently<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span> colored slides for stereopticon,
+kinetescope and biograph exhibits, which soon attracted wide attention
+and were in such demand that a large trade resulted. In this way another
+exceedingly profitable allied industry was added to the now famous Solaris Farm.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XIX.</h2>
+
+<h3>FENWICK HALL.</h3>
+
+<p>In the infancy of this Republic, when its government was looking about
+for a permanent home, Gen. Washington was moved to found and lay out the
+City of Washington as its Capitol. With a marvelous prescience he
+foresaw the coming needs and future greatness of the newly-united
+states. Impressed with visions of the glorious destiny awaiting his
+beloved people, his cherished republic, he wisely concluded to provide
+generously for the growth of a magnificent city which, a century later,
+should reflect credit as the capital of a mighty nation. Careless of the
+gibes and sneers of many of his most intimate friends, Washington, the
+far-seeing statesman, the invincible soldier, deliberately planned,
+platted and surveyed through the wilderness of forest at that time
+covering the great triangular basin lying between the Heights of
+Columbia and the waters of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers; such a
+bewildering array of broad streets, wide avenues, and roomy public
+parks, as would be ample and suitable for a brilliant city like Paris,
+(whose system of streets he had taken as a model,) at least sufficient
+for the wants of a population of a half million. The<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span> dawn of the
+twentieth century saw a complete realization of General Washington's
+brightest hopes, a verification of his prophetic visions. The wand of
+progress had transformed the straggling village of "magnificent
+distances," into the most royally beautiful city on the continent. A
+city which had become the pride and delight of one hundred millions of
+free people, who individually felt a personal interest in the vastness,
+the beauty and the imposing grandeur of its magnificent public
+buildings, which represented the crowning loveliness of architectural
+design, the highest artistic expression of American genius; altogether
+most perfectly and fittingly adorning the unrivaled capitol city of the
+most progressive, powerful, and meritoriously dominant republic on the
+face of the planet! To this Mecca of republics, as the social and
+political center of the western hemisphere, came the great thinkers,
+scientists, artists, orators and statesmen of the world.</p>
+
+<p>Commandingly situated on Columbia Heights, overlooking this surpassingly
+beautiful city, was Fenwick Hall, the home of Fern Fenwick. The Hall was
+a large quadrangular structure of imposing appearance, erected in the
+center of spacious grounds, most charmingly laid out, with a rare
+combination of lawn, flowers and shrubbery. The material used in its
+construction was Seneca sandstone, in color a rich dark red, and was
+trimmed with a pale mottled green stone, quite as beautiful as
+serpentine. The effect of the combination was as harmonious as it was
+ornamental. The main building was four full stories in height above the
+deep basement. It was made more conspicuous and more picturesque by the
+four octagonal towers, one-half of which projected from each corner of
+the building. These beautiful towers<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span> of a uniform size, rose thirty
+feet above the roof of the building itself. The basement and towers were
+of rough green stone; the caps and sills of the long, deep windows,
+together with the arcade, were of green stone, beautifully carved and
+polished. The arcade, which served both as a covered way, and a portico
+over the main entrance, was at once artistic and unique. It was formed
+by a picturesque combination of four Moorish arches. These arches were
+uniformly twenty-five feet in height and twenty-five feet in width: the
+openings of the double arch were placed in front with the single
+openings at either side. By this arrangement the beauty of the entire
+structure was greatly enhanced, while a very appropriate entrance to
+Fenwick Hall was the result.</p>
+
+<p>At the rear of the grounds, on a line with the center of the mansion,
+were the roomy stables. They were built of rough Seneca sandstone. Like
+Swiss cottages, they were made more beautiful by a profusion of richly
+colored slates which covered the broad, steep roof and the wide eaves.
+Between the mansion and the stables, on the same line, twenty-five feet
+distant from the former, was the pretty two story building, of the same
+material, devoted to the kitchen, the heating and the lighting plants.
+Both buildings were connected with each other and with the main building
+by a long colonnade of harmonious proportions; its heavy cornice,
+narrow, steep roof, and long double line of slender supporting pillars,
+were all of the same red stone. The color effects offered by the lovely
+contrast between the velvety green of the broad, smoothly shaven lawns
+and the rich reds of the Seneca stone, were simply delightful!
+Architecturally considered, the combined effect of the group of
+buildings, arcade and colonnade, was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span> as artistic as it was excellent.
+Under the arcade, just inside the double arch, a broad flight of stone
+steps led up to the heavy oak doors opening into the wide hall on the
+main floor. This hall was remarkable for its unusual size; it was thirty
+feet wide and of a proportionate height, fifteen feet from floor to
+ceiling. In connection with a cross hall twenty feet in width, it served
+to divide the entire space on this floor&mdash;one hundred and sixty feet by
+ninety&mdash;into four very large rooms; the two parlors, the library, and
+the dining room: each one thirty feet in width by seventy feet in
+length, with fifteen foot ceilings.</p>
+
+<p>The grand proportions of these magnificent rooms and stately halls,
+excited universal admiration; they impressed the beholder with a
+dominant idea of the spacious luxury which marked the interior
+appointments of Fenwick Hall. In the center of the main hall, thirty
+feet from the front entrance, began the flight of the grand stairway.
+The general design of this stairway was boldly unique. It was in harmony
+with the scale of magnificence which characterized the halls and
+parlors. In three long flights of twenty-five steps each, it rose to the
+fourth floor. Counting the fifteen-foot landings on the second and third
+floors, it was practically one structure with a generous breadth of
+fifteen feet. It was built of the same material&mdash;American mahogany&mdash;with
+casings, cornices, banisters and newels of the same pattern and finish,
+all highly polished and rich with ornamental carving. The beautiful
+color effects of the polished mahogany, were brought out more vividly by
+the pale neutral tint of the heavy velvet carpet, which covered the
+stairs and landings. As an illustration of the great space occupied by
+this grand stairway of such ideal proportions, each one of its
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span>seventy-five broad steps would afford a comfortable seat for eight
+persons&mdash;a goodly company of six hundred, all told. This royal trinity
+of stairways ranked as the distinguishing feature of the mansion. They
+gave it an air of stately elegance, tempered with the glow and warmth of
+a generous hospitality.</p>
+
+<p>The halls on the second and third floors were counterparts of the main
+hall in size and style. The hall on the fourth floor was fifty feet wide
+by one hundred and sixty feet long. It was arranged to be used as a ball
+room, or for concerts, lectures, operas and theatricals. For such
+events, it would comfortably seat an audience of one thousand people.
+The roomy stage was furnished with the latest and most approved
+appliances; it was also equipped with a remarkable series of twelve drop
+curtains for the lectures. Number one of the series, was a twelve by
+twenty-four foot map of the United States, including Alaska, Hawaii,
+Porto Rico and other territorial possessions. This map was accurately
+drawn to a large scale, it was artistically colored and marked in such a
+way as to show at a glance the boundaries of original territory; the
+ceded territory, the date of cession, and from whom acquired; the
+dividing lines between states and between counties; the location of all
+cities and towns having a population of one thousand or over; the
+principal state and county roads, all railroads, lakes, rivers,
+mountains, public parks, valuable forests, arid lands, irrigable lands,
+mineral deposits; all noted mines of coal, iron, gold, silver, copper,
+etc., together with a great variety of important items: all of which
+proved exceedingly valuable as an added means by which to illustrate in
+an interesting and comprehensive way, lectures on geographical,
+geological and historical<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span> subjects, together with lectures on the
+natural wealth and resources of our country; its manufacturing, mining,
+commercial and agricultural interests, with a great number of kindred
+topics as well. The second curtain was uniform in size with the first
+and with the entire series. On the same large scale, it gave a
+magnificent illustration of the solar system. The background was a pale
+bluish gray. The sun appeared as the central figure, surrounded by the
+planets in their orbits, carefully drawn as to comparative size and
+position. The whole map was colored with exquisite taste in perfect
+harmony with the beautiful sky effects of the background. The skillful
+work of the map maker proved especially strong in furnishing a lesson of
+wholesome humility for the over-proud denizens of the little planet
+Earth who, puffed up with much vanity, have for ages proclaimed the
+Earth as the pivotal center of all creation. The third curtain was
+simply a heavy, plain white one, perfectly fitted for the display of
+stereopticon views, and more especially for the moving panoramic views
+of the kinetescope, the vitascope and the biograph, which have proved
+such attractive and entertaining aids to the general lecturer, dealing
+with any special subject capable of such profuse illustration. The
+remaining nine curtains were devoted to outline maps of the world, and
+to illustrated object-lessons in the most important and interesting
+departments of nature.</p>
+
+<p>The side walls of this remarkable hall were wainscoted in polished hard
+wood, for a distance of five feet above the floor: the remaining wall
+space was divided into large ornamental panels, with beautifully
+scrolled historical borders. In these panels were painted, one in each,
+large maps of the States<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span> and Territories, which were drawn to uniform
+scale, minutely accurate, with every post office, post road, wagon road
+or cycle path plainly marked. In addition, at least twice the number of
+details usual to large maps showing counties and townships, were
+carefully noted. The effect of this unique educational system of
+ornamentation was as interesting as it was fascinating. In harmony with
+this idea, the entire length of the broad ceiling overhead was painted a
+pale blue; it was divided into two large panels with ornate borders;
+each panel was dotted with stars and planets in such a methodical way as
+to form a complete astronomical map of the visible heavens, both
+northern and southern hemispheres. This, with several of the large drop
+curtains, served as adjuncts to the well equipped observatory which was
+located in one of the large towers at the rear of the mansion.</p>
+
+<p>On the main floor, on each side of the front hall, were the two grand
+parlors, whose exact dimensions have been stated heretofore. They were
+carpeted and furnished with all the art and luxury that skill could
+devise, or wealth could procure. Two wide archways of Moorish style and
+majestic proportions, opened from each parlor into the main hall. The
+chief adornments which marked these fine parlors as unapproachably
+superb, were two immense mirrors, alike in every way, mounted in heavy
+frames, rich with leaf gold. They occupied the entire wall space at the
+rear end of these enchanting saloons of artistic luxury. When
+distinguished groups of brave men and beautiful women were assembled
+here, the magical effect of these mirrors in reproducing the brilliant
+company as one magnificently framed panoramic picture, was ever the
+source of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span> perpetual admiration and delight. On such occasions the
+thirty feet of the main hall in front of the stairway, served as the
+third or reception parlor. The grand stairway shone resplendent as one
+magnificent centerpiece of loveliness. Up the long flight on either
+side, it was banked by a wealth of potted flowers, ferns and palms,
+festooned with wreaths of lovely smilax. Just in front of this unrivaled
+background of beauty, standing alone upon the movable reception
+platform, which was merely a small circular extension of the first step
+of the grand stairway, the charming young hostess of Fenwick Hall, with
+the grace and courtesy of a born princess, gave a greeting of welcome to
+her delighted guests, or dismissed them with a gracious smile as they
+entered or retired.</p>
+
+<p>The library, in the rear of the parlor at the left of the main hall and
+separated from it by the cross hall, was an exceedingly imposing and
+attractive room. With its quiet array of costly appointments, it seemed
+to possess some hidden charm. Its mahogany shelves were laden with a
+rare collection of choice books, elegantly bound, skillfully arranged
+and classified. The assortment of scientific books was a remarkably
+large one. Marble statues, and exquisitely painted portraits of a host
+of famous authors and artists, whose works had enriched the literature
+of the world, fittingly adorned this ideal realm of drowsy quiet, where
+both lore and luxury reigned supreme.</p>
+
+<p>The dining room was uniform in size with the parlors and the library.
+Its walls and ceiling were frescoed with groups of graceful figures,
+which represented the merry sprites of pleasure in carnivals of
+feasting, song and dancing. Each figure was a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span> carefully studied type of
+beauty; each group a perfect expression of grace and gaiety. Studied
+singly or as parts of the entire composition, they were exquisite as
+works of art, charming the attention of the beholder with a bewildering
+fascination. The floor was one vast mosaic of superbly colored tiles.
+The heavy mahogany tables and sideboards were glittering with their
+costly equipments of shining silver, sparkling cut glass, and rare,
+translucent china. Large oval mirrors in heavy carved frames, duplicated
+the lovely adornments of this brilliant room from a dozen points of
+vantage. The dazzling effect of this home of the feast, was intensified
+by cascades of light from the two unrivaled chandeliers. They supported
+a great number of slender bulbs containing the electric lights, which
+were arranged in the form of a mass of drooping fern leaves, rising like
+a pyramid of soft radiance, into the perfect shape of two superb
+fountains. Tiny streams of short prisms, clear, flashing, crystal,
+pendant and vibrating, formed the tip of each fern leaf. This skillful
+combination seemed to complete the startling illusion of this rare
+vision of loveliness, until one could almost hear the musical tinkle of falling water.</p>
+
+<p>The three halls on the main, second and third floors, were really
+galleries of art "par excellence," they were so profusely adorned with
+choice collections of photographs, etchings, water colors, paintings and
+statuary. On entering the main hall, two very large paintings of
+extraordinary significance and rare merit claimed instant admiration.
+Companion pictures, each with a canopy and background of crossed
+American flags, from whose voluminous folds shone the blazing glory of
+color in the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span>matchless beauty of the stars and stripes. In each picture
+under these flags, the dominant spirit of the republic breathed in the
+noble figures so exquisitely painted; typifying in the one on the right,
+the Goddess of Liberty watching over the destiny of the republic. In the
+one on the left, Liberty with her torch lighting the world. So perfectly
+did the painter's art portray the "Spirit of '76," that a new tide of
+patriotic devotion to the republic and its glorious flag, swelled the
+hearts of all who saw these justly famous pictures.</p>
+
+<p>The well lighted, well ventilated rooms in the basement were used as
+store rooms, a suitable number being set apart for the servants, as
+dressing rooms, dining room and sitting room. In a large bay window
+extension at the rear of the main hall, a sumptuously furnished elevator
+connected the basement with all of the halls, the roof and the towers.
+The rooms on the second and third floors were arranged in suites of
+three: reception, sleeping and bath. In size, fittings and furnishings,
+they were models of comfort and luxury.</p>
+
+<p>The four octagonal tower rooms were uniformly twenty-five feet in
+diameter, with lofty dome ceilings. The right front tower was occupied
+by Fern Fenwick as her private study and work room. It was fitted and
+furnished much the same as the library. The left front tower was
+arranged as a seance room for spiritual manifestations, and more
+especially for the different phases of mediumship possessed by Mrs.
+Bainbridge, including materialization. As before stated, the right hand
+tower at the rear was perfectly equipped as an observatory, while the
+rooms under it were devoted to the demonstration of kindred sciences.
+The left tower at the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span> rear was furnished and arranged as a laboratory.
+The rooms under it were set apart for experiment and demonstrations in
+chemistry, metallurgy, photography and several other sciences of like nature.</p>
+
+<p>An able corps of carefully trained servants, under the direction of Mrs.
+Bainbridge, the housekeeper, made it easy to keep this remarkable
+establishment in perfect order. One and all, these model servants were
+devoted to their lovely young mistress, and this devotion was based on
+their keen appreciation of her noble ideas in regard to the true purpose
+of human life, to her high estimation of its sacredness. They were eager
+to serve her faithfully and well for less than ordinary wages, contented
+and confident in the knowledge that, in accordance with her clear sense
+of justice, they were sure of being retired on half pay after having
+reached the age of fifty-five. This brief description of the exterior
+and interior of Fenwick Hall, its equipment, its lovely mistress and its
+people, will but faintly suggest its extraordinary possibilities as a
+potent factor in the upper circles of Washington life. Almost three
+years have passed since the transition of Fennimore Fenwick, which left
+his only daughter, Fern Fenwick, as the sole heir to his vast wealth.
+With the exception of three months each summer, spent at Fairy Fern
+Cottage, or some mountain resort near it, she had remained quietly at
+Fenwick Hall, busily engaged in rebuilding and refitting it. Meanwhile
+under the instruction of able teachers, she had been hard at work in
+efforts to supplement her excellent collegiate education with a better
+knowledge of history and by a more complete mastery of the subtle
+secrets of the higher sciences, as exponents of the powers, properties
+and purposes of the inherent forces belonging<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span> to the various
+departments of Nature's vast domain.</p>
+
+<p>After much deliberation she had undertaken this work to enable her to
+wisely prepare and plan for a life work in harmony with her lofty ideas
+on the subject&mdash;ideas which had been slowly ripening in her mind for
+many months. Having passed the ordeal of this severe post graduate
+course of general study, she felt herself prepared to commence the work
+contemplated by her general plan, which embraced a skillful use of the
+great educational and social advantages of Fenwick Hall, in her
+endeavors to bring to the leading minds of the political and social
+circles of Washington a clear conception of the importance and
+significance of the real purpose of human life; with a view to reforming
+ethical, social, industrial and political organizations on the true
+basis of the unselfishness of the individual for the advancement of the
+race; thus bringing these organizations into exact and co-operative
+harmony with the object and purpose of the existence of the planet.
+Systems so organized, would then be in line with a true conception of
+the functions of an ideal republic&mdash;a government for the people, of the
+people and by the people; conducted for the benefit, protection and
+development of all the people. With the world organized into families of
+such republics, the advent of the millennium could be predicted, and the
+advancement of the race to the point of perfection would be insured.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XX.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA.</h3>
+
+<p>From a careful review of her historical studies, Fern Fenwick came to
+the conclusion that the competitive system was responsible for a
+majority of the evils which had so retarded the world's progress. She
+discovered that this same system was the father of a conscienceless
+commercial spirit which had existed for many centuries as the basis of
+all social organization. That as such, it was a constant menace to all
+good society; the embodiment of a cruel selfishness of a savage type,
+which insisted that might makes right&mdash;that the strong should thrive by
+preying upon the weak. In this position it boldly denied the immortality
+of the soul, so far as the weaker workers were concerned. Therefore the
+cheap lives of these poor people had no claim to be considered as
+sacred, because they represented so many human souls. In the absence of
+any practical or effective protest from the religions of the world, this
+monstrous system of selfishness had in all these years, grown unchecked
+and unmolested in its methods of cruel greed. From the shadows and gloom
+of these threatening conditions, existing so manifestly in direct
+violation of all progressive law, came a demand that the negative belief
+in the immortality of the soul, be speedily replaced by a positive
+knowledge of it. A knowledge sustained and supported by practical
+demonstrations, through the action of natural law, whose manifestations
+and demonstrations should be so direct and indisputable as to appeal
+convincingly to the hard headed thinkers, who as a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span> class, seemed to
+represent a materialistic element that threatened to overthrow all
+belief in immortality.</p>
+
+<p>In answer to this demand, about the beginning of the last half of the
+nineteenth century, there happened an event of the utmost importance,
+potent with promise for the mighty spiritual unfoldment and general
+advancement of the people of the twentieth century.</p>
+
+<p>In the humble home of the Fox family, at the little village of
+Hydesville, near Rochester, New York, by the co-operative efforts of
+mortals and spirits, there was constructed and established a line of
+communication between the two worlds&mdash;the mortal and the spiritual. Two
+little children, the Fox girls, were the mediums, a combination of
+operator and electric battery&mdash;or, in other words the necessary
+instruments for successful spiritual telegraphy. In this obscure home of
+the poor and lowly, in a quiet way, unheralded and unannounced, there
+came to the world a knowledge of the existence of one of nature's
+grandest laws, the law of mediumship; thereafter the way was open, on
+the physical plane of existence, for an unlimited series of practical
+demonstrations of the immortality of the human soul: the continuity of
+conscious life was substantiated by an endless variety of proofs of the
+most convincing character.</p>
+
+<p>With this solution, of the destiny of the human soul as an immortal and
+imperishable entity, came the solid ground on which to build a permanent
+foundation for a social and industrial organization, on a basis of
+unselfish, harmonious co-operation in perfect accord with planetary
+evolution, and the real object and purpose of human life.</p>
+
+<p>This strong combination of the working factors of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span> the problem,
+suggested to the mind of Fern Fenwick the importance of first attempting
+to interest the minds of the people she wished to control, in the
+question of immortality as a natural fact that followed the dual nature
+of all human life, as a result of planetary evolution. Once interested,
+she could then convince them of the immortality of the soul, as a
+conscious, imperishable entity, by practical demonstrations through the
+law of mediumship.</p>
+
+<p>These demonstrations would make it clear to them that life on the
+physical plane of existence is transitory and ephemeral; somewhat in the
+nature of a very brief period of primary experiences; that life on the
+spiritual plane of existence is permanent and enduring; that therefore
+the pathway of progress for the human soul must be almost entirely
+within the realms of the world of spirit; that this great truth should
+have careful consideration when dealing with questions affecting human
+lives; that the dominant immortal spirit of the dual individual
+possesses a corporeal body, or mortal form, as a crude outward
+expression of the indwelling spirit in its earthly existence; that this
+mortal form enfolds all the possibilities of a life of eternal
+progression for the Ego or spirit as a conscious identity on the
+spiritual plane of existence; that the change called death is a natural
+one, to be approached calmly without a fear; that it is really a new
+birth, which does not disturb the continuity of life.</p>
+
+<p>Once convinced of the verity of these great truths, all lovers of
+humanity, all progressive people, all earnest thinkers, would readily
+understand and appreciate the sacredness of human life, as the flower
+and fruit of the planet&mdash;its highest expression; they would then be
+prepared to co-operate with any <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span>progressive movement for the
+advancement of the race.</p>
+
+<p>To make the necessary conditions for the accomplishment of this great
+work was the grand purpose of Fern Fenwick's Washington life. With this
+purpose in view, Fenwick Hall had been especially fitted and equipped.
+For this she had cultivated a large circle of acquaintances among the
+fashionable leaders of the best society of the Capital City. Caring but
+little for the ceaseless round of soul-wearying social functions which
+so completely absorbed these people; yet filled with a determination to
+win them to a higher life, she bore herself bravely through the season
+which proved one long procession of social triumphs. Inspired by the
+intensity of a grand purpose; endowed with a clear, musical voice,
+perfect health, youth and beauty, combined with a charmingly
+irresistible personal magnetism; armed with the quiet dignity of perfect
+self-control, and the genius of her brilliant mind, so broadly cultured;
+an adept in psychic lore; an entertaining and eloquent
+conversationalist, our heroine created a profound sensation in the most
+select circles of the social world. Everywhere she was the center of
+attraction, surrounded by admiring throngs of cultured people,
+representing wealth and leisure, who hastened to pay homage to her as a
+Twentieth Century society goddess, whose wand of magic controlled
+millions of money. In the homes of the exclusive few, she was hailed as
+a thrice welcome guest; celebrities, ranking high as statesmen,
+soldiers, poets, artists, authors, representative professional men and
+leading men of business, were completely charmed and curiously
+fascinated by this new queen of the social realm, and vied with each
+other in eager efforts to win her favor and perhaps her friendship,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span> in
+the hope of gaining admittance to the very limited circle of fortunate
+people who were the recipients of invitations to the famous dinners,
+receptions and entertainments at Fenwick Hall. These people
+instinctively felt the attractive power of some silent, mysterious
+force, some high motive, which, combined with dazzling beauty and
+brilliant genius, drew them to her side, without the wish or power to resist.</p>
+
+<p>This phenomenal wave of popularity continued to increase until a choice
+of the best people in every branch of the social world, was at the
+command of this new leader of the exclusive set; they were ready to
+assist in carrying forward any progressive movement she might choose, by
+her championship to make the fashion. However, this universal
+willingness to follow her leadership, seemed based on a firm conviction
+in some way unconsciously established in the minds of her devotees, that
+all of Fern Fenwick's plans and purposes were for the good of humanity,
+wisely guided by a skill and judgment most remarkably rare&mdash;apparently
+far beyond her years! The whole situation was a complex problem they
+could not analyze: they did not even try!</p>
+
+<p>With the advent of modern spiritualism in 1848, came the first
+opportunity to bring woman forward as a teacher and leader in the great
+work of elevating and spiritualizing the masses. As a heritage from her
+sister oracles, who spake in the mystic temples of the ancient past, the
+modern woman was endowed with the divinity of a rarely sensitive and
+highly refined spiritual organization. By virtue of this endowment, she
+speedily demonstrated her peculiar fitness for this new mission. Her
+eloquence and inspiration charmed the multitude from a thousand
+rostrums. Her work in this new field was so<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span> startlingly brilliant,
+important and successful as to attract the attention of the whole
+civilized world; affording a remarkable object lesson which demonstrated
+her possession, as the mouth-piece of inspiration, of a wonderful
+magnetic power to sway the people; to enthuse, interest and educate them
+up to higher mental, moral and spiritual conditions; by making them
+aware of the vast import of the true purpose of human life; by helping
+them to realize to a limited degree, the significance of immortality,
+their individual responsibility in relation to the universe, as
+important factors in the evolutionary advancement of the race toward the
+millennium of its final destiny.</p>
+
+<p>These inspired teachings touched a responsive chord in the hearts of all
+womankind as they began, dimly at first, to perceive the all-pervading
+force and rythm of the dominant key-note to the evolution of the race,
+which in thunder tones ever proclaims the mighty truth, that all
+progress of the race depends entirely upon the elevation, education and
+refinement achieved by woman. They also began to understand something of
+the glorious possibilities of a perfected womanhood, as a regenerator of
+mankind. A magnificent array of future victories for woman's work loomed
+up before them as a command to awake; to prepare for the coming dawn of
+the twentieth century&mdash;the beginning of a new cycle in the life of the
+planet; the commencement of woman's golden era! To woman the command was
+imperative that she must strive for more wisdom, for more light on her
+holy mission as the evangel of evolving life; that she might reach a
+higher consciousness of her individual responsibility as the keeper and
+guardian of the sacred temple of human life&mdash;a temple<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span> in which is ever
+repeated the evolution, ontogeny, and phylogeny of the race; where, by
+this most mysteriously beautiful of all processes, there is constantly
+being welded together the planetary growth, physical, mental and
+psychical experiences of ages upon ages in the past; with the higher,
+purer, better and more spiritual possibilities of the race in its
+planetary progress for uncounted ages yet to come.</p>
+
+<p>From this general awakening there followed&mdash;for the purpose of securing
+that practical education of training, which actual contact and
+individual experience alone can confer&mdash;a vigorous effort on the part of
+the brightest and most progressive women of the Nineteenth Century, to
+enter, singly and as organizations, into all the activities of life.
+Hampered by the blinding prejudice of a long line of centuries; many of
+these earlier organizations, as might have been foreseen, were
+unsparingly criticised as exhibitions of ill-directed foolishness,
+altogether crude, unprogressive and unsatisfactory. Nevertheless, the
+dominant spirit of courageous and persistent effort, combined with high
+purpose and pure motive, soon won the approval of the better classes and
+accomplished a marked improvement in both work and method. This rapid
+improvement pointed unerringly to future achievement of that success
+shown in the conditions which prevailed at the close of the century,
+whereby woman was very generally recognized as a necessary and
+successful co-worker in all the suitable employments of life.</p>
+
+<p>Fern Fenwick, in full sympathy with the movement, was alive to the
+demands of the situation. With the purpose of concentrating the efforts
+of all the women's organizations which held their annual conventions in
+Washington, into one channel, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span>leading to perfect motherhood, as the
+result of woman's social and financial independence; she identified
+herself with them as a generous contributor. Soon she became the friend
+and trusted adviser of all of the leaders. She placed Fenwick Hall at
+their disposal, for use as a general headquarters. In this way, a wise
+direction of the combined women's movement into a united work along
+lines in harmony with planetary evolution for the perfection of the
+race, became an integral part of Fern Fenwick's broad plan for a life work.</p>
+
+<p>By the end of Fillmore Flagg's first year at Solaris Farm, Fern Fenwick
+had matured her plans for her own peculiar work. Much to her
+satisfaction, the necessary conditions had been created, the whole
+movement organized and well in hand. Fillmore's work for the education
+and elevation of the agricultural classes, had given her energy and
+inspiration to accomplish a similar and co-operative work among people
+of wealth and leisure, who, ignorant of the true object and purpose of
+life, were unwittingly wasting precious years in leading indolent and
+aimless lives, by lending themselves body and soul to the care and
+canker of the fashionable game of killing time. One year's experience
+had taught her that the task was a difficult one, to accomplish which
+required time, patience and perseverance, reinforced by courage, skill and tact.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXI.</h2>
+
+<h3>HIS WOOING PROSPERS WHILE OUR HERO ENJOYS HIS FIRST VACATION.</h3>
+
+<p>Fern Fenwick's interest in the experimental farm was intense. She read
+with eagerness the weekly reports from Fillmore Flagg, which were
+accompanied by such charmingly ardent love letters. She was very proud
+of the success he had achieved in two short years. She blushed as she
+thought how dear to her he had become in those busy months which swiftly
+passed. How much she should miss him and his fascinating love letters,
+if by evil chance anything should happen to take him away from her! She
+could not contemplate such a possibility without a shudder. Now that her
+studies were finished and her plans perfected, why not send for him to
+come to Fenwick Hall for a week's vacation? He had certainly earned the
+privilege which he would prize so much. The opportunity to personally
+compare notes and exchange suggestions would no doubt prove helpful to
+the farm work and to her own. She longed for the confidential
+companionship of some one who was in perfect sympathy with her, who
+could understand her work, and appreciate her motives in carrying it
+forward; some one who would be able to advise her wisely and
+unselfishly; one in whom she had implicit confidence. Who so capable and
+so desirable as Fillmore Flagg? Acting on the impulse of the moment, she
+wrote the letter directing him to come at once.</p>
+
+<p>To Fillmore Flagg, the summons to Washington<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span> proved as welcome as it
+was unexpected. He came at the earliest possible moment. The hope of
+again meeting the noblest, sweetest, and dearest woman in the world for
+him, his heart's idol; of again being permitted to look long and
+lovingly into her gloriously beautiful eyes, stirred his emotional
+nature intensely, and fired his throbbing pulse with the fever of
+impatient expectancy. The beautiful words of the poet Dennison, in his
+"Night Ride of a Lover," were ever in his mind and on his lips. Over and
+over again he murmured:</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<div>"Though fleet as an arrow he flies,</div>
+<div>Though sundering space swiftly dies,</div>
+<div class="i1">My heart cries 'Oh haste!</div>
+<div class="i1">All time is a waste</div>
+<div>'Till I drink of her soul at her eyes!'"</div>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>The speediest express train seemed a laggard, left far behind in the
+race of the journey by his swift desire, which kept pace with the
+telegram announcing his departure from Solaris and the probable time of
+his arrival in Washington. At length his heart was made glad by a
+distant glimpse of the dome of the Capitol, which seemed to give him a
+welcome greeting as it marked his approach to the great city. He found
+Fern Fenwick's carriage, with Mrs. Bainbridge waiting for him at the
+depot. Half an hour later he was shown into the library at Fenwick Hall,
+where in radiant beauty his blushing sweetheart gave him a royal welcome.</p>
+
+<p>As he approached her, with shining eyes and face aglow, soul and body
+radiant with the grace and adoration of his all-absorbing love, the
+heroic order of his manly beauty thrilled the heart of Fern Fenwick with
+its irresistible charm. The kisses claimed by a lover's privilege, she
+was powerless to deny. Nay!<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span> she did not try to hide the shining light
+of a great happiness from the adoring eyes of such a noble lover, whose
+magnetic presence stilled the tumult of her fluttering heart with the
+ecstatic calm of a measureless content; that unmistakable signature of
+sanction, that crowning seal of nature's approval which greets the
+meeting of kindred souls, who, mated in the warp and woof of the web of
+destiny, in the flashing flight of Cupid's dart, become the harmoniously
+united halves of a perfect whole.</p>
+
+<p>Ah, thrice happy, thrice blessed, thrice crowned lovers! How swiftly
+passed those golden hours, as hand in hand, they sat entranced, with
+soulful eyes in silent communion, dreaming and drifting in the
+cloud-land of love's harvest-moon, in whose silvery mist they lost all
+consciousness of the existence in this world of aught else beside themselves!</p>
+
+<p>The next morning after his arrival at Fenwick Hall, Fillmore Flagg
+having breakfasted with Fern Fenwick and Mrs. Bainbridge, accompanied
+the former to her work room in the tower. Here, as had been arranged on
+the previous evening, she gave him a complete account of her work in
+Washington, since the transition of her father. She also gave the
+details of her general plan for enlarging the scope of the work to
+include the women's movement and of directing the combined work in such
+a way as to become an aid to the work of the model farm.</p>
+
+<p>"My dear Fillmore," said Fern, "How are you impressed by my scheme for
+carrying out the chosen plans? Can you suggest anything that may be of assistance to me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Your scheme," replied Fillmore Flagg, "is a glorious one which promises
+to start a revolution in the aristocratic circles of society. It
+impresses me<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span> profoundly, as a deep laid plot, cunning and strong, which
+must accomplish a vast amount of good for the interests of humanity. So
+deep, so broad and so vast are its possibilities, that a week devoted to
+study and reflection would but poorly prepare me to understand its
+significance or perfection as a whole, much less to pronounce judgment
+upon it. But at this moment, of one thing I feel sure&mdash;that the noble
+purpose which has inspired your skill and genius in the construction of
+this remarkable plan, which deals so effectively and practically with
+human life as the result of planetary evolution, will prove a sure guide
+to success. The plan itself, in all of its details, is already so
+perfect, in my estimation, as to leave nothing for me to suggest by way
+of improvement. It is characteristic of you and of your capacity for
+brilliant work! I am, more than ever before, amazed at this exhibition
+of your intellectual greatness, which demonstrates your power to think
+so deeply and plan so wisely. I am very proud of you! I am especially
+grateful for this opportunity to burn incense as a worshipper at the
+shrine of your genius! You ask to what extent will the work affect the
+destiny of woman? I answer, its possibilities in that direction are
+limitless! They are beyond the power of any living mortal to comprehend!
+With woman surrounded by such conditions of financial independence, and
+such harmonious environments as will permit her to devote the best
+energies of her soul to the perfection of the highest type of
+motherhood, there will come a solution of the problem of how best to
+accomplish the perfection of the race. Surely, generations far in the
+future shall rise up to call you blessed! Dearest, best and noblest of
+women! Go forward bravely without a fear for the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span>result. Undoubtedly
+your plan possesses all the elements of success. With the talisman of
+your goodness and beauty as the moving force, you cannot fail. Whatever
+I am capable of doing to assist you, I shall do gladly, with all my
+heart and strength."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, my dear Fillmore," said Fern, "your words of assurance and
+approval, so beautifully expressed, have appealed potently to all that
+is good and spiritual in my nature. They have inspired me to better and
+nobler deeds. They are very grateful to me and I prize them highly.</p>
+
+<p>"Now that you are so much interested, I feel sure you will be able to
+help me in thinking out some problems which puzzle me. For instance:
+From among the people I have interested, I wish to select and
+concentrate the dominant thinkers and workers of both sexes and from all
+classes, into some kind of a club organization, for the purpose of still
+further perfecting the efficiency of organized co-operative effort.
+Question: Shall this society take the form of a club? If so, what name
+shall I choose for it? In its formation what method shall I use? Can you
+evolve anything from your inner consciousness in answer to these questions?"</p>
+
+<p>Absorbed in the intensity and earnestness of her questioning spirit,
+Fern Fenwick left her chair and as her interrogatories came to an end,
+she stood by the side of Fillmore Flagg, looking straight into his eyes
+with such a penetrating, magnetic glance, that for some moments he was
+unable to reply. With his beautiful curl-crowned head thrown back to
+meet and return her entrancing gaze, he breathed but slowly and for the
+moment seemed rigid as a man of marble; a far-off, dreamy look shone
+from his half closed eyes. Presently, with a long sigh, speaking<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span> very
+slowly and softly, he said: "Ah! Miss Fenwick, I think I see what you
+are reaching out for. Your idea is coming to me now quite clearly." Then
+with returning animation he continued: "Yes, I grasp the idea; it is
+capital! I believe I can help you. I would suggest the use of the club
+formation without using the word 'club' in its title. I would call it
+'The Twentieth Century Cosmos.' I would choose for its badge of
+membership a small silver fern leaf, crossed by a large gold key. I
+would advise that you alone, as the founder and sole director of the
+club, should have the power to select the members, and to decorate them
+with the badge of membership. To be in harmony with the century idea,
+the number of members should be limited to one hundred. All meetings of
+the club should be held in suitable rooms at Fenwick Hall; these rooms
+should be known as Cosmos Court. Admittance to each meeting should be
+gained by the presentation at the door, of an invitation, printed on
+club paper, bearing the name of the member, giving the date and stating
+the object of the meeting, all duly attested by your written signature as director.</p>
+
+<p>"The object and purpose of the existence of the club may be stated as
+follows: That its membership may secure, by the harmonious association
+of properly qualified minds,&mdash;which shall represent the dominant
+thinkers in all departments of knowledge&mdash;a higher, broader conception
+of the possibilities and purposes of life; as the necessary basis which
+shall make it possible to acquire a larger store of cosmic wisdom, by
+the use of systematic methods of co-operative research, study and thought.</p>
+
+<p>"This system of formation for a club would certainly be unique. I
+believe it will prove to be <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span>especially well fitted for the
+accomplishment of your peculiar work. Does the plan proposed meet your
+approval by offering satisfactory answers to your questions?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! my dear Fillmore," said Fern, "what a darling, clever boy you are,
+to be sure! Now it is my turn to praise your wisdom and your genius. I
+think your plan is an excellent one, which will suit the exigencies of
+my purpose most admirably. Before you return to Solaris we will consider
+the details more at length. Now let us change the subject.</p>
+
+<p>"In keeping you so long at my work, how selfish and thoughtless I have
+been! I shall try to make amends! I have planned to make your brief
+visit as pleasant as possible. To-day I must show you over the house and
+grounds. In the afternoon we shall take a long drive which will give you
+a glimpse of the beautiful streets, buildings, parks and monuments of
+our lovely city. Each afternoon these drives are to be repeated, until
+you are familiar with the great possibilities of this city of destiny,
+this priceless gift&mdash;the perpetual home of the government of the
+nation&mdash;from General George Washington, who is forever enshrined in the
+hearts of the people as the founder of the republic, the father of his
+country! When you return to our farm people, I wish you to be able to
+impress them with the matchless beauty, vastness and importance of the
+City of Washington, the political center of this unrivaled republic. It
+is my great desire to have them always think of it and speak of it with
+love and pride, with feelings of individual proprietary interest, as
+they realize that they are important factors, as voters and working
+units of the government, in the great work of shaping its destiny.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span></p><p>"As you are the guest of honor at Fenwick Hall, I am going to do my
+best to make you, for one week, the happiest man in town! The evenings
+are to be devoted to the theatre, the opera, and to various society
+events at Fenwick Hall, arranged for your especial benefit and edification."</p>
+
+<p>"My dear Fern," said Fillmore, "How good and kind you are! To be near
+you, to hear your voice, to look into your beautiful eyes; is paradise
+for me! A week so full of happiness, I shall cherish as the one week of
+a lifetime! As to these society events of which you speak, I shall be
+jealous of each moment so devoted which shall take you from my side.
+Pray then, my good angel, do make such moments as short as possible!"</p>
+
+<p>"Rest assured, my knight of the farm, you shall have no cause to
+complain," said Fern, with a saucy smile as she laid her hand
+caressingly on his arm. "You are to come with me, prepared to look and
+listen, while I show you the beauties of my Washington home!"</p>
+
+<p class="center">*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*</p>
+
+<p>As the "Saint Louis Express" left the Washington station, westward
+bound, Fillmore Flagg caught a final glimpse of Fern Fenwick, as with
+characteristic grace and enthusiasm she continued to wave a parting
+salute with her dainty lace handkerchief, until the train had vanished
+around the curve. With a sigh he returned to his seat to muse over the
+events of the week which had passed so sweetly yet so very swiftly for him.</p>
+
+<p>Yes, Fern had kept her pledge up to the last moment. As the guest of
+honor at Fenwick Hall, she as hostess, in all the graciousness of her
+bewitching beauty, marked by such charming tenderness, had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span> made him
+conscious each day that he was indeed the happiest man in town. He now
+returned to Solaris with renewed courage and enthusiasm, to prepare for
+the celebration at the farm of the coming arbor-day festival, which Fern
+had promised to attend. As this celebration was to mark her first visit
+to Solaris Farm, he wished most ardently to have it prove a great success.</p>
+
+<p>The events of the past week had been a revelation to Fillmore Flagg: a
+host of new attributes to the noble character of Fern Fenwick had shone
+forth and dazzled him by their unexpected brilliancy. He began to
+realize what a wonderful woman she was in this new role, as the queen of
+the select set in the aristocratic circles of Washington society.</p>
+
+<p>Her strange power to mold the minds of these people; to make them strive
+for the accomplishment of social and industrial reforms, which meant the
+redemption of the masses, impressed him most profoundly. By what
+remarkable process had she, in so short a time, achieved such commanding
+heights of intellectual and spiritual greatness? Heights, where by
+operating from the vantage ground of the social and political center of
+the republic, like some chief marshal on the broad field of human
+events, she could, by the unseen and irresistible power of hypnotic
+suggestion, inspire, guide and control the causative and law-making
+forces which so powerfully affect all social and industrial conditions.
+Was it possible that spiritual unfoldment alone, could confer such
+marvelous power? Apparently in response to the intensity of his
+question, came the reply:</p>
+
+<p>"When a person representing combined physical, intellectual and
+spiritual unfoldment, is inspired by a noble, unselfish desire to
+accomplish a great good<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span> for all human life, by the use of methods that
+are in conjunctive harmony with the evolutionary progress of the planet:
+then such a desire acquires an irresistible force. Naught can prevail
+against it! In compliance with the demands of a wise cosmic law, it has
+received the omnistic seal of nature's approval."</p>
+
+<p>The clearness and wisdom of this unexpected reply, appealed strongly to
+the reason of Fillmore Flagg. Profoundly moved, yet outwardly calm, he
+perceived at once that the truth of the statement was absolute! In the
+new light of this remarkable revelation, he wished to carefully examine
+the claim of the model co-operative farm to the seal of nature's
+approval. Were the desires, the ideas and the methods in conjunctive
+harmony with planetary evolution? Apparently they were! That the success
+of the model farm meant the elevation and future happiness of humanity,
+was true beyond question. Equally so was the intensity and unselfishness
+of the desire which had inspired his action and the acts of Fennimore
+Fenwick and his daughter, Fern. Surely then, the project bore the
+unmistakable stamp of approval which foretold success! It could not
+fail! It must succeed! It was irresistible and invincible!</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXII.</h2>
+
+<h3>A SURPRISE PARTY AND RECEPTION COMBINED.</h3>
+
+<p>As the train approached the station at Solaris, Fillmore, in blissful
+ignorance of coming events, began to prepare himself to leave the coach.
+In response to a letter from George Gerrish, he had wired<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span> from St.
+Louis the time of his arrival. As he was stepping from the train to the
+long platform, his hand baggage was seized by trusty hands and quickly
+disappeared. He noted with amazement the gaily decorated station and the
+throng of waiting people. Before he had recovered from his surprise,
+Gertrude Gerrish, evidently striving to assume a very dignified
+deportment, advanced to meet him. As she gave him a hearty welcome, she said:</p>
+
+<p>"As the leader of the reception committee, representing the membership
+and children of the Solaris Farm Company, who are gathered here in
+holiday attire, unanimous in a desire to do honor to you; I greet you! I
+welcome you back to Solaris Farm!"</p>
+
+<p>Turning quickly, with a wave of her hand, she said: "People of Solaris,
+three cheers for our General Manager!" At this time, the train having
+departed, the farm people almost covered the platform with two deep
+lines, facing a narrow lane in the center, with heads uncovered,
+prepared and waiting for the signal. The response came instantly in a
+ringing cheer from six hundred well-trained throats: "Hurrah! Hurrah!
+Hurrah for Fillmore Flagg! Welcome! Welcome! Welcome back to Solaris Farm!"</p>
+
+<p>Almost before Fillmore was aware of what had really happened, Gertrude
+Gerrish had taken his arm, as with a mysterious smile she said: "I am
+now to escort you to the carriage prepared for your reception. We are
+then to be escorted by the procession to the public square, in front of
+the hall of education and amusement, where the final ceremonies are to
+take place. Of course you are surprised! We have planned for that very
+purpose! So come along now without one word of protest! At the proper
+moment you are to have as much time as you may<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span> desire in which to
+relieve your mind. For the present you are to keep quiet and obey me&mdash;a
+despotic master of ceremonies whose will is imperative and whose dignity
+is not to be questioned, even for a moment!"</p>
+
+<p>Fillmore Flagg, now obediently dumb, entered into the spirit of the
+occasion. He was very much surprised&mdash;nay, well-nigh dazed&mdash;yet withal
+delighted, as the happy significance of this unexpected welcome came
+slowly into his mind. With hat in hand, bowing and smiling, arm in arm
+with Gertrude Gerrish, he slowly passed between the long lines of happy
+faces, keeping step with the throbbing measure of the soft sweet music
+discoursed by the band. At regular intervals, groups of gaily dressed
+children waved their pretty flags or playfully pelted him with roses. As
+the twain reached the end of the lines, a novel chariot was waiting: a
+ladder-wagon of the Solaris fire company, drawn by twenty brawny fire
+laddies, was equipped with a broad platform, beautifully draped, bearing
+at each corner a choice selection of fine large potted palms. In the
+center of this platform was a smaller one, raised still higher; on this
+was placed the seat of honor, which was covered by a lovely canopy of
+artistically interwoven ferns and flowers. A broad flight of rough board
+steps, carpeted and decorated, led up to the lofty seat on this unique
+chariot. While our hero and the "Master of Ceremonies" were climbing to
+reach it, the procession quickly formed about the chariot into an
+elongated hollow square, eight ranks deep; the children with their flags
+marching in alternating lines of boys and girls, formed the front of the
+square, while the adults arranged in the same order, formed the sides
+and the rear. Gilbert Gerrish, with the band<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span> of musicians, selected by
+him from the ranks of the musical club, was placed in front of the
+square. He was very proud and happy as he flourished his baton and gave
+the signal for the procession to move forward. In this order they
+marched gaily along the broad, tree lined avenue which led from the
+railroad station to the village square. The chariot came to a halt just
+in front of the hall of education and amusement, with the seat of honor
+facing eastward toward the center of the public square. The procession
+quickly reformed into three sides of a square, with the eight ranks facing inward.</p>
+
+<p>For a brief period silence reigned. Then at a signal from Gertrude
+Gerrish, as Fillmore Flagg arose with uncovered head and stood by her
+side, the cheers and greetings of welcome were repeated by the ranks
+with redoubled animation and intensity.</p>
+
+<p>At this juncture, George Gerrish came forward to the front of the raised
+platform, while Gertrude, turning to Fillmore, said; "The president of
+the Solaris Farm Company has been chosen by its people to present to you
+a gift which they have selected, as a tribute of their affection and
+also of their devotion to you and to Solaris Farm."</p>
+
+<p>"My esteemed friend and co-worker, Fillmore Flagg," said George Gerrish:
+"As the mouth piece of our people, I am happy to be permitted to join in
+the active work of this reception. The people of Solaris Farm, moved by
+one impulse, inspired by sentiments of sincere friendship and
+enthusiastic loyalty, desire to present for your acceptance, this
+Solaris album, as a testimonial of their loving admiration; as a token
+of their absolute confidence in the wisdom of your leadership. This
+album contains photographs of all the members of the company.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span> Each
+picture is endorsed with the signature and with the place and date of
+birth of the individual. They are arranged and indexed in alphabetical
+order. Our people were guided to a choice of this gift because they were
+so profoundly impressed with the importance of the experiment
+represented by this farm. Because they felt so confident that its
+assured success would sound the key-note of a general movement for the
+emancipation and elevation of humanity by the gradual introduction of
+wiser and better social and industrial methods, which would eventually
+result in the banishment of poverty and crime.</p>
+
+<p>"Taking this view of the future, we may be pardoned for prophesying that
+fifty years hence, this album of the pioneers of the movement, will
+possess a greatly enhanced historical value. We trust, therefore, that
+this possibility may make our gift more acceptable. I now ask you to
+receive it in the spirit of love which inspired its donation. In
+conclusion allow me to assure you that under all circumstances, you can
+count on the life-long friendship and loyalty of the people whose
+pictures will greet you, as the years come and go, whenever you may feel
+inclined to look through the picture laden pages of Solaris Album."</p>
+
+<p>As George Gerrish concluded his speech, a swelling storm of cheers for
+Fillmore Flagg burst from the ranks of the square. Again and again came
+the repeated roar of cheers, accompanied by the roll of the drums, and a
+circling cloud of waving handkerchiefs, hats and flags. Fillmore Flagg,
+inspired by the enthusiasm and excitement of his cherished people,
+looked very handsome and heroic as he stood with his manly figure erect,
+his noble head thrown back, his eyes shining with emotion, the album
+held<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span> firmly in his right hand. Bowing and smiling, he turned gracefully
+to face the greetings from the ranks of familiar faces, which were
+swaying with joy and shouting so wildly. Waiting for a few moments, he
+then raised his left hand, with the open palm outward, as a signal for
+silence. The tumult was stilled as if by magic.</p>
+
+<p>"People of Solaris!" he said; his clear, strong voice vibrating with
+emotion: "To you, through your worthy president and your able committee,
+with a grateful heart, I return my thanks for this most unexpected and
+charming reception; for this beautiful and appropriate gift, which I
+prize much more than words can tell. Believe me when I say that I most
+thoroughly appreciate the noble sentiments which inspired its selection.
+I am delighted with the happy significance of this demonstration, as a
+prophecy of the complete success of this experimental farm. This
+exhibition of your loyalty to me and to Solaris Farm, fills my heart
+with emotions of grateful joy. You have made me very proud and very
+happy! I shall never forget the encouragement of your enthusiastic
+support, which has given me renewed vigor and strength to carry forward
+the work. I now pledge to you my sacred word of honor that the golden
+memories of this glorious occasion, and the possession of this precious
+album, shall henceforth inspire me to still greater efforts for the
+success of our cherished enterprise, which means so much for us, so much
+more for humanity.</p>
+
+<p>"I am willing to acknowledge without a moment's hesitation, that your
+surprise for me was skillfully planned; that its execution was
+charmingly successful! I wish to return the compliment. I have a
+surprise in store for you! The present moment is <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span>propitious; I will
+disclose it! I am the bearer of a gift for you&mdash;a gift wisely chosen,
+which is in every way worthy of your admiration and appreciation. A gift
+of such exceeding value, that I cannot speak of it without becoming
+eloquent. Gold and silver cannot measure its worth to you! Securely
+packed in strong cases, which are now lodged in our express office, is a
+rare collection of books. This collection contains ten complete sets of
+the best text books for each one of the classified sciences, together
+with the vocabularies, dictionaries, charts and drawings belonging
+thereto. Accompanying each set is a miscellaneous collection of the best
+works written descriptively on that particular science. These books are
+intensely interesting and very valuable, although they are not classed
+as text books. Altogether the five hundred volumes form the finest and
+most comprehensive collection of scientific works I have ever seen. They
+are the most useful and expensive books published that can be found in
+the whole range of scientific literature. They contain the knowledge we
+most need in our enterprise, to enable us as an associated body of
+people to do better, wiser and more effective co-operative thinking and working.</p>
+
+<p>"To meet and satisfy our needs in this direction, these books were
+chosen as a gift to our library, by Miss Fern Fenwick, the beautiful and
+generous patroness of Solaris Farm. She desires me to emphasize her wish
+that you abstain from any public expression of thanks. In lieu thereof,
+she prefers to accept the measure of your diligence and enthusiasm in
+acquiring the stores of knowledge thus offered, as the most appropriate
+and satisfactory measure of your gratitude to her for the gift.</p>
+
+<p>"To master the contents of these books, is to <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span>master the sum of human
+knowledge in the various departments of science. With this mastery there
+will come to us the largest understanding, and the clearest obtainable
+conception of our relations toward each other, and to the universe
+around us. Thus enlightened, we may discover that ignorance is a sin;
+that as responsible entities in the great pulsing sea of cosmic life,
+with more or less power to help or hinder the purpose and perfect
+unfoldment of all life&mdash;we cannot afford to be selfish, sinful or cruel
+in our actions toward each other, or toward any other form of cosmic
+life. Having once acquired these convictions, with this most important
+fund of information, we possess the key which will unlock the mystery of
+the action and reaction of the potent and unseen forces of nature, which
+affect us as individuals, as they do the earth, air and water, the
+elements so necessary to our existence. The restless, never-satisfied,
+questioning spirit, born with every human soul, is the expression of a
+divine purpose! To gratify this insatiable desire for more knowledge, is
+to comply with the demands of a wise cosmic law. By so doing, we enter
+into the enjoyment of a never-failing source of perpetual delight. We
+are crowned with a happiness of the purest type!</p>
+
+<p>"In viewing this vast field of knowledge, spread so invitingly before
+us; in anticipating the joy we may glean therefrom; we catch a glimpse
+of the exceeding richness of the boon of immortality, which, as a
+spiritual heritage, is waiting for us. We begin slowly to understand
+ourselves as the repositories of infinite possibilities!&mdash;as cosmic
+units of the larger Cosmos&mdash;as a perfect microcosm of the macrocosm!
+With feelings of awe-inspiring adoration, we reflect that we may know
+ourselves as individuals, only as<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span> the extent of our knowledge of the
+universe around us is increased. Responding to the law of action and
+reaction, the more we reflect, the greater becomes our desire to know
+more of ourselves. Always more! Ever more! Never quite satisfied!
+Fortunately, the immortality of the wisdom loving human soul embraces
+all time, and all eternity! Therefore, through the law of eternal
+progression, we may naturally and rightfully aspire to the acquirement
+of all possible knowledge. In cultivating these aspirations, we may rest
+assured that we shall constantly gain new conceptions and new meanings
+for the word 'Heaven.'</p>
+
+<p>"In conclusion, my friends and co-workers, my brothers and sisters, let
+us congratulate ourselves as the fortunate recipients of this priceless
+gift: let us endeavor to show our appreciation by a speedy mastery of
+the contents of these valuable books. Let us approach the work, full of
+joyful anticipation and enthusiasm, with the proud consciousness that we
+are invited guests to a great feast of learning. Let us strive in every
+way to make study thoroughly enjoyable. Let us make it one long holiday
+in honor of the Goddess of Wisdom! One grand harvest-home of our
+gathering of the golden fruit from the tree of knowledge. Let us be as
+earnest as we are enthusiastic&mdash;let us be thorough, and withal
+methodical and systematic.</p>
+
+<p>"The ten sets of text-books, suggest the formation of the membership of
+the company into that number of scientific clubs; which I recommend.
+This division would give fifty adults as the average membership of each
+club. We have at least ten available rooms large enough to accommodate
+clubs of that size. Each club should begin with the primary text-book,
+which should be read, discussed, analyzed and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span> re-read until clearly
+understood by the entire class. The club to proceed in the same order
+with the next of the series, until all are thoroughly mastered. I will
+volunteer to join the club to which is assigned that scientific study
+which may prove the most difficult, least inviting and most unpopular.
+By the force of a united purpose, working co-operatively together, we
+shall soon develop a capacity for severe mental labor, which will make
+the mastery of the remainder of the course a constant source of
+pleasure. What we need in the way of equipment, chemicals, instruments,
+etc., can be easily and quickly secured.</p>
+
+<p>"George and Gertrude Gerrish will have an advisory superintendence over
+the work of all the clubs. Years of experience in teaching have prepared
+them to quickly untangle the mixed quantities or conditions that may
+confront us, and thus skillfully turn our difficulties into delights.</p>
+
+<p>"With this general plan for conducting our literary festival, I will
+leave the subject with you for consideration at the proper time.</p>
+
+<p>"I feel conscious that under the circumstances, I owe you an apology for
+having so trespassed upon your patience and good nature, by the length
+of my remarks. Therefore I desire to acknowledge my thrice doubled
+appreciation of your manifest interest, attention and sympathy, which
+have both flattered and encouraged me greatly.</p>
+
+<p>"I will now close by thanking you, through your worthy officers, for
+this cordial and beautiful reception; also for the opportunity to
+address you on a subject in which I am so deeply interested."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>FORMATION OF POPULAR SCIENCE CLUBS.</h3>
+
+<p>As the days passed after the reception, the new books were unpacked by
+Fillmore Flagg, assisted by George Gerrish. As soon as possible they
+were arranged and placed on appropriate shelves in each one of the ten
+rooms prepared for them. Large steel engravings in plain oak frames, of
+all the authors, together with the maps and charts, all neatly glazed
+and mounted, adorned the walls of the particular room to which they
+belonged, adding greatly to the attractiveness of the general
+collection. As the work progressed, the keen interest displayed by all
+members of the farm company seemed to increase. They could talk of
+nothing else; they were eagerly and almost impatiently waiting for the
+announcement of the formation of the clubs. Accordingly therefore, as
+soon as the rooms were ready, a complete schedule of the books in each
+series was made; these schedules being numbered from one to ten, to
+indicate the series to which they belonged. They were printed and
+distributed among the members of the company, with a request that one
+week later, each member should return two of the numbered schedules
+marked as first and second choice of the studies they desired to take
+up. By this method of voluntary selection, the clubs were quickly and
+easily formed, without friction or embarassment. Well stimulated by an
+ever increasing fund of interest and enthusiastic ambition, the club
+members, impressed with the wisdom of Fillmore Flagg's advice, promptly
+took up the class work of the study chosen, eager to <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span>secure a generous
+share of the educational benefits to be dispensed at the board of this
+great literary feast, to which they had been so kindly invited as
+especially selected guests. With some misgivings as to the final result,
+Fillmore Flagg carefully watched the preliminary club work while yet in
+its organic stage. He had been somewhat doubtful of the ability of the
+average club member, who was not a trained student, to acquire a
+sufficient interest in such abstract subjects, with which to develop the
+mental force so necessary in order to digest and finally master them.
+However, much to his surprise and delight, at the very threshold of the
+work, the display of energy, ability and mental acuteness on the part of
+the entire club membership, dispelled the last remaining doubt from his
+mind; he was convinced of the practicability and final success of the course.</p>
+
+<p>In carefully analyzing the subject, he perceived that they were
+quickened by the momentum of a united co-operative effort; also that
+they were&mdash;perhaps subconsciously&mdash;pushed forward by a great number of
+new ideas concerning the desirability of at once acquiring a larger
+store of scientific lore, as a necessary and more complete equipment for
+the practical duties of the battle of life. Dominant and central among
+these ideas, was the one which so temptingly promised an increased
+knowledge of themselves as individuals, by the mastery of the broad and
+hitherto unexplored field of explanatory science; which might lead to a
+better solution of the mystery of environmental conditions. Finally,
+they were no doubt inspired strongly by a firm conviction that, once
+armed with a thorough scientific education, they would possess an
+additional power to aid in making Solaris Farm a speedier and more pronounced success.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span></p><p>Fillmore Flagg accepted this demonstration of the combined ability of
+the farm people to conquer the most difficult problems of science,
+without the advantage of previous training, as an added proof that the
+ideas and methods of the model farm were most assuredly in conjunctive
+harmony with planetary evolution; therefore with the great force of
+combined co-operative mental effort to push it forward, still more
+surprising results might reasonably be expected, when these efforts were
+more wisely and skillfully directed along lines indicated by nature as
+lines of the least possible resistance. A realization of these
+expectations would seem to suggest that the key to future success in all
+educational work lies in discovering systems, methods, associations and
+surroundings for the students, which are nearest in conjunctive harmony
+with natural evolution, consequently along a pathway presenting the
+fewest possible obstacles.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2>
+
+<h3>A TWENTIETH CENTURY LOVE LETTER.</h3>
+
+<p>"All the world loves a lover!" is a trite but beautiful saying, which
+touches a responsive chord in the great heart of humanity! We cannot
+remain indifferent to the magnetic effect of the strong tide of his
+eloquent and impetuous wooing. Nor can we withhold a sympathetic desire
+to aid him in reaching the goal of success&mdash;to win the precious prize.
+Quite as naturally, we are intensely and delightfully interested in the
+birth, the unfoldment, and the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span>blossoming of every individual entity in
+the great ocean of cosmic life. Instinctively we recognize that love is
+life. One could not exist without the other. Old and young alike
+understand the potency of the spell which binds the lover; which holds
+him for unconscious periods of time, absorbed in dreamy contemplation of
+his ecstatic devotion to the heroic virtues, graces, accomplishments and
+attributes of the charming woman, whom his heart has chosen to represent
+all things in the universe which have meaning and worth for him. Through
+this adorable woman, the crowned and glorified object of his
+all-absorbing love, he can best respond to the rythmic throbbing of all
+cosmic life. In this superior state of beautiful transfiguration, he
+forgets self, and lives for long happy months in the rare upper strata
+of real unselfishness. Under the powerful influence of pure love, the
+highest and holiest emotion which stirs, controls and makes better the
+life of every mortal; lost in the blissful alembic of this great
+chemical change, the lover recognizes himself in every demonstration of
+universal life around him. He also becomes aware, from some inner
+consciousness, of the extent to which the emotional nature controls and
+molds the individual; that among the anabolic emotions, love is the
+queen of the emotional empire; that the touch of her magical scepter is
+so potent and penetrating as to render the individual receptive and
+responsive to all of the ennobling, purifying, progressive and exalting
+elements of the universe: but, on the other hand, what is still more
+marvelous: that the same touch renders the individual negative to the
+inflowing currents from all of the baser elements. With this awareness
+comes the conviction that the Empire of Love is boundless and limitless;
+that it<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span> permeates and glorifies the vast ocean of infinity! On the
+strong, swift tide of this shoreless ocean, the lover floats, secure,
+serene and confident, on his voyage toward destiny's most distant port.</p>
+
+<p>The following letter from Fillmore Flagg to Fern Fenwick, will serve in
+some measure to illustrate the power of love to change, expand, energize
+and spiritualize the entire character of the lover: to purify and
+strengthen the moral disposition of our hero, to eliminate from it all
+tendency to selfishness; to endow him with a broader wisdom, with higher
+and nobler aspirations of life; to fit him more perfectly to carry
+forward his great work for humanity at Solaris Farm.</p>
+
+<p class="center">*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*</p>
+
+<p>"My Darling Fern: Noblest, purest and most beautiful of women! Like the
+rose to the sunlight, like the needle to the pole, my heart turns in
+adoration to you. My own true love! My peerless one! My guiding star in
+love's azure sky! My soul swells and sings with its full tide of joy, as
+willing fingers attempt to put in words the thoughts born of my great
+love for you. What miracle have you wrought for me, my precious one,
+that I am so happy? The earth, the sky, the verdant woods, the grand
+mountains, the green meadows, the shady nooks, the babbling brooks;&mdash;all
+thrill my innermost being with a thousand new charms! The bees, the
+birds, the flowers and trees as they bend or sigh to the passing breeze;
+the solemn stillness of majestic night; the deep blue sea, overarched by
+nature's matchless crown of diamonds, a countless multitude of brilliant
+stars, in the silvery moonlight of love&mdash;how eloquent their song! All
+things in nature speak to me; they bless you for loving me! In the halo
+of that <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span>blessing, as I think of you, I am transfigured by a newly-born
+ecstacy! To breathe, to exist, is to realize the superlative degree of
+my exquisite happiness! Hidden away from the clouds and storms of life,
+by the golden mist which veils the measureless sea of love, infinite
+love, I sail serene and confident upon its heaving tide. Gently rocked
+by the lapping lullaby of the rythmical waves of paradise, I fearlessly
+float. I care not for time nor tide, nor distant port of a future
+destiny! Entranced by the music of love's beautiful sea, I dream love's
+dream alone with myself, the outer world shut away&mdash;swallowed up by the
+overwhelming tide of my sweet and blissful contentment.</p>
+
+<p>"From such hours of exaltation, I am sometimes rudely awakened by a
+monster reflex wave of self-examination. Ah, dear heart! It is then that
+I ask of my soul: What am I? What have I done? What sweet guardian
+spirit guides my life, that I should be made so exceedingly happy by the
+priceless love of such a beautiful woman? Am I worthy of such a
+blessing? Can I properly appreciate the great good fortune of being
+fondly and truly loved by such a peerless woman, who is so dear to me,
+so noble, so good, so true; so pure, so bright, so beautiful; so truly
+wise, so eloquent; in every way so well fitted by birth, wealth, and
+education to reign as queen in the most brilliant and most exclusive
+circles of the social world; even in the grandly beautiful city of
+Washington, where the princes and potentates of the earth, lords of
+other lands, of wealth and fashion of high degree, vie with each other
+and with the republic's most honored statesmen, for one smile, one look
+of recognition from this marvelous woman, who is everywhere recognized
+as the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span>dominant center of attraction? Oh, the wonder of it! This is she
+who holds the key to my heart!</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, my adored one! As this picture of your life fills my mind, I wonder
+what would happen to me under such circumstances, with any other woman
+in your place. I know I should be both furiously jealous and foolishly
+despondent: but with you, the very apotheosis of truth and
+honesty!&mdash;Impossible! It could not be: so base a thought would perish
+with the thinking! I know you are as true as steel. The pure soul which
+shines from your eyes has spoken to mine. I am content; I fear not; I
+know that the compass of your love is constancy.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh! my darling! Chosen one of my soul! How great is the mystery of
+love! How priceless the blessing it brings to the lover! How brilliant
+the constellation, how spiritualizing the multitude of new thoughts to
+which it gives birth! How I pity those who have not been touched and
+quickened by the life-giving power of love! How sad and desolate is the
+pathway of the soul so unfortunate as to be shut away from the sunshine
+of love! Better, far better, to die of love! To die of love is to live
+by it! It is to have discovered the great deeps of the infinite: for
+love itself is a revelation of the infinite! The aspiration of love is
+the inspiration of paradise. Who can understand the significance, or the
+great mystery of immortality, or the fulness of the promise of eternal
+happiness to be gained by a life of endless progression, without first
+having lived a life of love? The smile of love is the rainbow of life!
+Every tender emotion of love is a prayer, pure and potent, for a higher life.</p>
+
+<p>"The truth of these things, my sweet heart, I realize more fully each
+day. I feel and know that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span> every link in the chain of eternal existence,
+is a link of love! My love for you has been for me a spiritual blessing
+indeed! It has opened the eyes of my soul, so that I may perceive the
+significance of the miracle of love, which must precede the miracle of
+birth, as the necessary beginning of the unfoldment of the individual up
+to his highest estate&mdash;the repository of infinite possibilities. Love,
+then, my dear one, is the highest and holiest attribute of the human
+soul: that inspiring, controlling force, which wings the soul to such
+sublime spiritual heights, as are far above and beyond the storms of
+common passions, and the evil influences of the baser emotions.</p>
+
+<p>"Ah! sweetheart of mine! How much do I owe to the uplifting power of
+love! I question and wonder! When its divine radiance shines upon me,
+through the glory of your beautiful eyes, I am led up the steep
+acclivities of the mountain of wisdom by a new pathway. I perceive that
+as the oracle of life, love is the potency which crowns woman with that
+entrancing aura of soft, sweet, melting force, which for ages has
+proclaimed her the greatest and most fascinating mystery of the
+universe! I also perceive that, responding to the stimulant of this
+potential aura, I am thrilled, spiritualized, energized, encouraged and
+more perfectly fitted to perform whatever difficult or heroic work the
+needs of our farm people may demand. Fortunate for me was the day when
+Fennimore Fenwick left you heir to his plans for redeeming the lives of
+these people! Fortunate indeed, was the time when I was chosen by you to
+discover, select and institute Solaris Farm, with the broad humanitarian
+work which its success represents. Each memory of this farm; of my every
+thought, plan or deed for its improvement: of its<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span> people; of their
+lives, health, and happiness; of their sublime confidence in me, of the
+prompt obedience they so cheerfully render to my slightest command; of
+the peculiar pride expressed by the appreciation of their importance as
+working units of the farm, all united, harmoniously blended, in one
+perfected co-operative mass;&mdash;is a memory made more delightfully
+permanent by the wonderful light of your love!</p>
+
+<p>"Never before have I been so busy or so blessed! Every emotion of pride,
+enthusiasm, ambition, joy or love, which stirs the hearts and quickens
+the pulse of these people, who are working with me for one object so
+faithfully, so earnestly; through the magnetic halo of your love, is
+reflected upon me with redoubled intensity. In the strong current of
+this electrical stream of power, I am quickened, strengthened and
+prepared to do better thinking and more effective work for the perfect
+development of the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"At this point, dear Fern, I must mention an item of farm news, in which
+I am sure you will be greatly interested. We have arranged to have our
+arbor-day celebration, or tree planting festival, on the 10th day of the
+month of March in each year, as the season, in this climate most
+suitable for the work. For some months past, for the purpose of exciting
+in the minds of our people a keener interest, I have been giving a
+course of lectures on the general subject of forestry. These lectures
+have proved so attractive, that as a result, they have been
+exceptionally well attended by both old and young. The amount of
+interest displayed by my hearers, is a continual source of surprise and
+delight to me. Early in the course, this extraordinary interest
+culminated in such a perfect shower of questions in regard to the
+details of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span> the subject, that I was obliged to refer my questioners to
+the various books written on the subject, as most completely and
+satisfactorily answering the multitude of their queries. As a
+consequence, the botany club has had a great boom. While every book in
+the library on forestry, or the care and culture of plants and trees,
+including those in a full series of annual reports from the Department
+of Agriculture, is in constant use. You would be delighted, my dearest,
+could you note the readiness of even the children to grasp the idea, to
+understand the immensity of the benefits which may be conferred on
+future generations by our systematically directed efforts in tree
+planting here on this farm. Both young and old alike, are quick to
+appreciate the important fact that while we are enjoying a holiday, to
+which we may look forward each year with increasing delight; we are at
+the same time furnishing the world with an object lesson as to the
+practicability and great value of the good work which may be
+accomplished by all classes of agricultural people, in the general
+observance of such a festival.</p>
+
+<p>"The announcement of the good news that you are to visit the farm in
+time to attend our first arbor day celebration, on the tenth of next
+month, has made our people very happy. They are simply wild with delight
+at the prospect of seeing you so soon: of having an opportunity to thank
+you in person for the many favors you have so generously bestowed upon
+them. Hitherto they have admired and adored the beautiful and generous
+young patroness of Solaris Farm, through the medium of a life-size
+crayon portrait, made some months ago, from one of your recent
+photographs. Since then, this lovely shadow of the idol of my heart,
+adorned by a suitable frame,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span> has occupied the post of honor, as the
+only picture on the walls of the library. The advent of such a charming
+picture, at once converted the library into the throne room of the
+village, where gathered daily, admiring throngs of our people to feast
+their eyes in silent worship at the shrine of this life-like shadow of
+your lovely face. In thus exposing this picture, so dear, so sacred to
+me, to the earnest and respectful admiration of our people without your
+knowledge or consent; I trust, Dear Heart, that I may not have outraged
+your sense of propriety in the slightest degree. It occurred to me that
+it would be just and right, also most fitting and proper that, as the
+patroness of the farm, your portrait should appear in the place it now
+occupies; that it would be the most appropriate method of linking your
+individuality, in the minds of our people, with the peculiar work and
+destiny of the farm. If you consider my action from this point of view,
+I am sure you will approve. Like some good fairy, the silent charm of
+your portrait has each day, each hour, wrought its perfect work in my
+life and in the lives of our people. It has proved a constant source of
+delight! An added talisman to insure the final success of our enterprise!</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, my good angel! my Princess Charming! At last comes the crowning
+thought which completes my wreath of happiness! It comes to me daily,
+again and again! It is this, Dear Heart; that every step toward the
+final and complete success of Solaris Farm, is an added link in the
+chain of a shining destiny which shall bind our lives more firmly
+together, until at last this beautiful chain of love shall have become
+proof against the dissolving power of the passing ages of an Eternity!</p>
+
+<p>"In conclusion, sweetheart, may a bright band of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span> faithful guardian
+spirits, ever watchful, ever near, guide and guard you, the crowning
+treasure of my life, is the earnest prayer of</p>
+
+<p class="center">"Your devoted, loving and loyal,</p>
+
+<p class="right">"<span class="smcap">Fillmore Flagg</span>."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE REPLY.</h3>
+
+<p>"<span class="smcap">My Darling Fillmore</span>: Words fail to express the happy effect of the
+pleasing emotions that arise as I muse and dream, build castles in the
+air and indulge myself, again and again, in the luxury of reading line
+by line, the glowing tributes of love in your marvelous letter. I am
+electrified by its wonderful logic, rythm and melody. Ah, my chosen one!
+So manly; so noble; so true! The witchery of your eloquence is a
+conquering force, that Cupid with his bow might well be proud of! My
+heart rejoices under the influence of its magical spell! I am so happy
+and so proud of you! The great deeps of my emotional nature have
+responded to the poetical sublimity of your charmingly expressed
+sentiments. They thrill my soul like the dawn of some glorious summer
+day; like the exquisite perfume of a sweet flower; like that sublimely
+sweet surprise which steals over the senses, while a fleecy veil of
+silvery mist, responding to the power of the advancing king of day,
+slowly rises and discloses the shoreless grandeur of that tidal mystery,
+the majestic, restless, billowy bosom of Old Ocean; like some grand
+symphony of masterful music, penetrating and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span>resonant, with that
+mysterious potency which awakens every echo of the soul's musical
+possibilities! Yet, sweetheart, every word is charged with your personal
+magnetism; is stamped with your individuality; freighted with the wealth
+of your spiritual and intellectual development. In every line, sentence
+and paragraph, I recognize you as my ideal of a lover, the dearest and
+most noble of men!</p>
+
+<p>"In my retrospective moods, the cloud of memories, born of the incidents
+which have marked our past acquaintance, form a telescopic vista.
+Through this vista, examined in the crucible of much correspondence, the
+intimate association and the mutual friendship of many months duration,
+I perceive that I have discovered and have learned to appreciate the
+sterling worth of your character. Through this avenue I become conscious
+that you represent to me the superior nobility of true American genius;
+the highest and grandest type of manhood! Idealized as my hero, I place
+you in the front rank of America's dominant thinkers; a peer among
+peers, both potential and progressive&mdash;yet withal so modest, so free from dogmatism.</p>
+
+<p>"I seem to feel intuitively that you are standing at the very beginning
+of a new cycle in the history of our planet: a cycle in which symmetry
+of mind and power of brain, fix the standard by which nature selects the
+leaders she deems most worthy of ruling the destinies of her people. I
+feel that you have been measured by such a standard, and chosen as the
+instrument for the accomplishment of a special work of the utmost importance!</p>
+
+<p>"This bit of hero-worship on my part is due, no doubt, to the intensity
+of my devotion to our Republic; to the earnestness of my convictions in
+regard<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span> to its manifest destiny as a saving power&mdash;an uplifting
+force&mdash;among the nations of the earth. These growing convictions are
+emphasized by the keener perceptions of my spiritual nature, which
+declare that this almost resistless force which dominates our Republic,
+that may be likened to the world's storage battery, is due to the
+progressive power gained by the universal enlightenment of the American
+people as a mass. This important thought seems to emphasize the wisdom
+and the importance of universal education.</p>
+
+<p>"I must now refer to a matter mentioned in your letter, in which I am
+particularly interested. In declining to become jealous of the bevy of
+titled lords, who pay fawning court to my wealth and social position,
+here in Washington, you do yourself justice; while at the same time, you
+pay me the compliment of a lifetime! When compared with you, how puny
+and feeble are the princes and titled lords, made by kings and courts,
+in lands where selfishness reigns supreme at the expense of millions of
+unfortunate subjects! An impecunious host of these fortune-hunting lords
+swarm in the society of our large cities. With faded titles of doubtful
+value, as their only stock in trade, they fittingly represent the
+decaying nobility of passing monarchies. They are looking for victims!
+They become the highly honored guests of selfish, title-crazy,
+match-making mothers! Oh the pity of it! Oh the shame of it! How
+American girls, who are born to wealth, with all of the advantages which
+wealth may command, including the best education possible in this land
+of progressive liberty; who should love devotedly the vital principles
+of our democracy;&mdash;can be so dazzled by the false glitter of a title,
+that they <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span>deliberately choose to mate themselves (and their riches,)
+with such sorry specimens of lordliness; such brainless, nerveless
+bundles of selfishness, is something too monstrous for my comprehension!</p>
+
+<p>"Are these girls really Americans at heart? Do they represent the women
+of our land? Can they understand or appreciate the privilege as a
+birthright, of proudly taking an honored part in the coming motherhood
+of this great and progressive land of republican liberty; a republic
+which to day stands as the hope of the world? Is it possible that they
+can knowingly wish to become mothers of a feeble race of puny
+children&mdash;children who are cruelly bereft of moral, physical and
+intellectual vigor by the tainted heritage which, like some avenging
+nemesis, through the action of an inexorable law, surely follows the
+unfortunate offspring of lordling fathers, who are born as the very
+dregs from twenty generations of the vice and depravity of kingly courts?</p>
+
+<p>"My dear Fillmore, to these interrogatories I answer, No! A thousand
+times No! Ignorance! A shameful ignorance of the true object and purpose
+of human life, on the part of these misguided girls, is their only sin.
+They are well-nigh hopelessly ignorant of the significance, or even the
+existence, of the great basic truths of evolutionary life. They know not
+that each age in the series of evolution grows out of the preceding one;
+that each in its order is the parent of the next; that the same is true
+of each generation of people. In the midnight darkness of their
+ignorance, they are incapable of knowing that virtue inherently
+possesses the germ of perpetuity. They can neither understand nor heed
+the warning cry of history, which proves that crime and depravity have
+in themselves the seeds of natural<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span> death. They have never read
+history's tragic story of the total extinction of the royal houses of
+Capet, Valois, Tudor, Stuart and Bourbon;&mdash;a story which demonstrates so
+conclusively the avenging results that follow the crimes of royal fathers.</p>
+
+<p>"To redeem these girls from such dense ignorance; to rescue them from
+the thralldom of such a fashionable sin, which threatens to become a
+fad; to open their eyes to the horrible consequences which follow such
+misalliances, is a work so important as to demand the immediate
+attention and united effort of a host of America's patriot mothers.</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, dear Fillmore, for devoting so much space in my letter to
+this particular topic. I feel sure you will kindly excuse any excess of
+fervor which may have marked the expression of my indignation. Because
+you so well understand the intensity of my devotion to the broadly
+progressive principles of our matchless republic, you may, consequently,
+guess the full measure of my scorn for this foolish, title-hunting class
+of creatures who, like silly moths, blindly sacrifice themselves in
+folly's funereal flame. The bare idea of marriage to gain a foreign
+title has always been exceedingly repugnant to me. With passing years, I
+am each day more thankful that since my early childhood there has been
+buried deep in my heart, a determination that when the time came for me
+to select a husband, the only title of the one chosen should be the
+stamp of honor which marked him as a true type of an American citizen&mdash;a
+real American genius; a truly noble soul, perfectly and beautifully
+expressed by a harmonious combination of physical and intellectual development!</p>
+
+<p>"Fortunate the day for me when that lucky advertisement brought you to
+my side, as a trusty, capable<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span> co-worker, whom I have learned to
+respect, to admire and to love. My dreams have been realized. I have
+found my ideal. You may fearlessly trust in the absolute truth of your
+assertion that 'the compass of my love is constancy!'</p>
+
+<p>"Now my hero! My ideal of a gallant Knight of Most Excellent
+Agriculture, whose nodding plumes, of tassels of corn, artistically
+interwoven with splendid pompons of waving wheat, barley, oats and rye
+have so dazzled my eyes and charmed my heart; having chanted my song of
+love, I hasten to assure you that your last report concerning the
+administration of the affairs of the farm, has pleased me greatly. I
+think the progress achieved in so short a time, is truly marvelous! Only
+my Fillmore could have accomplished so much! I am full of curiosity
+about the details. When I come, you must be prepared to answer a host of
+questions; to go with me on many excursions of discovery before I shall
+have completed my tour of agricultural investigation.</p>
+
+<p>"I approve of the disposition you have made of my portrait. Of course my
+personal pride is gratified by the sincere admiration and praise it has
+excited. I am happy in the knowledge that it has proved so efficacious
+as a talisman of good fortune for the farm. I think I understand your
+reasons for the feeling that my individuality should be in some way
+directly interwoven with the destiny of the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"Reasoning from the peculiar environments which so affect our lives, I
+realize more fully each day that my personal interest in every step
+toward its final success, must necessarily be quite equal to your own.</p>
+
+<p>"I am delighted with the idea of being present at your first Arbor day
+celebration. I hope there is to be in the order of exercises an oration
+which you are<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span> to deliver. If so, I know you will not disappoint me! I
+am prepared to prophesy that you will do yourself justice, do credit to
+Solaris and at the same time you will cover the subject with a halo of
+glory. Such a result seems assured when I consider the extraordinary
+interest which was aroused by your lectures on forestry. This signal
+conquest of your eloquence has gratified my pride very much. I am
+strongly impressed with the vast importance of this tree-planting
+school, which you are about to institute at Solaris. The success which
+you have won in the preliminary work is so promising, that I am sure you
+have undertaken a task which is worthy of your genius. In my judgment,
+you have already demonstrated your ability to accomplish many wonderful
+things. Great opportunities are before you. By the force of your logic,
+by the earnestness of your eloquence, you will be able to instill and to
+permanently fix in the minds of our people&mdash;both parents and
+children&mdash;the true progressive principles of American citizenship. You
+will thus enable them to perceive the serious import of the
+responsibilities which, like a mantle of power, descends upon them, as
+the representative working units of this great republic. You can so
+inspire them that they will be eager and proud to take up with honor the
+burden of these responsibilities. You can so change and elevate the
+lives of these people and a multitude of others, that first they shall
+become masters of themselves; later, masters of the republic; through
+the controlling force, the imperial dominancy of scientifically
+developed, symmetrical minds; whose intellectual, ethical,
+inspirational, logical and constructive power, combined as an elevating
+agency, shall raise the republic of the future to still more <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span>commanding
+heights. To accomplish these things, is the glorious beginning of a
+great career! In visions of your life work, it comes to me that this
+preparatory work on the farm is but the introduction to a more important
+mission, in the vastly wider field of a near future. In this coming work
+we shall stand side by side. Hand in hand, with hearts united by the
+bonds of a supreme love, we shall go forth armed with the power to
+overcome and to conquer the great hosts of ignorance and selfishness
+which so hinder the world's progress.</p>
+
+<p>"Really, my true love, although this letter is so long, I cannot close
+it without again expressing my appreciation of your soul-satisfying
+letter; so laden with the fragrance, the benediction of your love; so
+potent with the charm of happiness for me. To its benign influence my
+heart responds by the awakening of the highest and best emotions of my
+spiritual nature. Written in clear, plain English, it appeals to me as a
+letter of such sterling intelligence as only my ideal of a lover could
+write. How different it is from the soft, sweet nonsense of fashionable
+fops; the effusive gush of poetical dudes.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, I must say to you Good bye, my sweetheart! Remember that waking or
+dreaming, I love you truly. Only you, so dear to me&mdash;you, so generous,
+so noble, so good. Bright are the links of love's golden chain which
+time cannot sever. Constancy, our love shall bless, now and forever. May
+the sweet guardian spirits who guide your footsteps, keep you safely
+until we meet again, is the ever-present thought which is inspired by
+love's whisper in the heart of your devoted,</p>
+
+<p class="right"><span class="smcap">"Fern Fenwick</span>."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVI.</h2>
+
+<h3>FERN FENWICK ARRIVES AT SOLARIS.</h3>
+
+<p>Fern Fenwick, accompanied by Mrs. Bainbridge, arrived at Solaris on the
+afternoon of the third day previous to the tree-planting festival. When
+the train reached the station, they were met by Fillmore Flagg
+accompanied by George and Gertrude Gerrish, the committee representing
+the farm company. With this escort to the village, they were soon
+installed in a handsome suite of rooms, beautifully decorated and
+furnished for their reception.</p>
+
+<p>After a late luncheon, Fern Fenwick gave a private interview to Fillmore
+Flagg. During this interview, which lasted more than two hours, matters
+both of business and of love were discussed: love, however, claimed the
+lion's share of the time. Very soon, by mutual consent, the major part
+of the business was postponed until after the tour of the farm, planned
+for the following day, had been completed. Then with a sigh of relief,
+they resigned themselves to the sway of that potent charm of blending
+magnetic and spiritual auras, which so swiftly transports reunited
+lovers to a paradise of their own.</p>
+
+<p>In accordance with previous plans, the next day was spent by the
+visitors in driving about the farm. The first motor carriage was
+occupied by Mrs. Bainbridge accompanied by George and Gertrude Gerrish,
+Fillmore Flagg and Fern Fenwick following in another. Pursuing a
+carefully arranged program, all points of interest were visited; the
+barns and stables, herds and flocks, the meadows, the cotton and grain
+fields, poultry yards, dairy, apiary, gardens, mills,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span> store-houses,
+packing-houses, factory buildings, the brick works and pottery, the
+clay-beds, stone-quarries, coal and other mines.</p>
+
+<p>This tour of inspection, which occupied nearly the whole day, proved
+very interesting to Fern Fenwick. With her note-book in hand, and her
+keen eyes on the alert to catch every salient point, she kept our hero
+busy answering a host of questions. It was a long, happy day for him! To
+sit so near her, to look into her smiling eyes, to listen to the musical
+tones of her voice, to answer her swiftly spoken questions, to respond
+to the pressure of her gloved hand upon his arm as she directed his
+attention to some particular object; all seemed to him such a delicious
+bit of experience, that he almost wished it might go on forever!</p>
+
+<p>In the evening the reception given in honor of the Patroness of the
+farm, was held in the large hall of education and amusement. In this
+hall, which was handsomely decorated for the event, the people of
+Solaris were assembled. They were a unit in eagerness to give expression
+to demonstrations of delight when, for the first time, they were
+permitted to greet the one they wished to honor: a woman whose name they
+reverenced as the title of the noblest guest they could ever hope to
+entertain. George and Gertrude Gerrish, with Mrs. Bainbridge, were
+already seated on the stage, when Fillmore Flagg appeared, escorting
+Fern Fenwick from the waiting room. Moved by one dominant impulse, the
+entire audience arose to receive her. The repeated cheers of welcome
+were intensified by the accompaniment of a fleecy cloud of waving handkerchiefs.</p>
+
+<p>Our heroine was well worthy the ovation: richly and artistically gowned,
+she was a perfect picture of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span> loveliness! Her cheeks flushed with the
+excitement of such an unexpected demonstration, her beautiful eyes
+flashing with the inspiration of her wonderful enthusiasm, her perfect
+figure proudly erect with the grace and dignity of an all-conquering
+magnetic presence, she captured the hearts of the people even before she
+had opened her lovely lips to address them.</p>
+
+<p>Warned by a gesture from Fillmore, the cheering ceased and the audience
+became seated. He then introduced Fern Fenwick by a neat little speech
+which provoked another storm of applause more demonstrative than the first.</p>
+
+<p>When order was again restored, at a signal from George Gerrish the
+double quartet of mixed voices, which had been selected from the singers
+of the musical club, came forward and, in a style which reflected much
+credit on the club, gave a song of welcome composed for this particular
+reception, and entitled; "She comes, she comes, she comes to us; our
+wise and lovely patroness." This song, which created a real sensation,
+was followed by an eloquent address of welcome delivered by George
+Gerrish in his official capacity, as president of the company. His
+remarks were seconded and emphasized most vigorously by long continued
+demonstrations of approval from the assembled members.</p>
+
+<p>In response, Fern Fenwick replied at some length in her most charming
+manner. Turning to George Gerrish, she said:</p>
+
+<p>"To you, the president, and through you, to the officers, members and
+children of the company here assembled, I offer my sincere thanks for
+the honor conferred, and for the pleasure given to me by this delightful
+reception. The sentiments of kindly greeting, of keen appreciation, of
+admiring <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span>approval, so beautifully expressed in your address of welcome,
+have touched me deeply. I am so profoundly moved, that my heart
+overflows with grateful emotions! Equally charming, and even more
+gracious to me were the words and music of the song which your sweet
+singers have rendered so artistically. These testimonials have so
+wonderfully impressed me that I can not forget them! As the years come
+and go, I shall cherish the bright memories of this eventful evening, as
+added jewels with which to mark and adorn the shining links, interwoven
+with the chain of my experience in life. These memories shall also serve
+to strengthen my already intense interest in this most extraordinary
+farm. A farm with such a wide range of improvements; with such an
+imposing collection of large well constructed buildings; with so many
+profitable allied industries in the full tide of successful operation;
+with a general equipment so magnificent, that at every turn I am
+astonished and delighted. I now understand why and how you have
+succeeded in transforming the hated drudgery of farm labor into such a
+pleasant, desirable occupation.</p>
+
+<p>"Since the beginning of the enterprise, my interest in the work has been
+constantly stimulated by the detailed accounts contained in the full
+weekly reports furnished by your general manager. These reports from
+time to time, I have studied carefully. Therefore I came here expecting
+much. However, after my tour of inspection, I hasten to assure you, that
+I was not all prepared to find such an ideal farm, already in successful
+operation! A farm with proportions so generous, an equipment so
+complete, and a future so promising; that when I pause to contemplate
+the magical changes wrought upon it in the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span> brief space of thirty
+months, I am filled with admiration for its wonder-working, epoch-making
+people! I consider it a coveted honor to be known as the patroness of
+such a grand institution. People of Solaris, I am happy to be thus
+identified with you. I am proud of you and your work! A work which shall
+yet cause millions to rejoice! You cannot guess; no one can even
+estimate, the exceeding value of this work as a shining example of what
+properly organized labor can accomplish. You have succeeded far beyond
+my expectations! Do not waver or turn aside for one moment! Go forward
+bravely; be strong and steadfast; be encouraged with the assurance that
+all times, I am ready and willing to assist you in every possible way!
+Success with her golden crown waits to reward you! All the world is
+watching and waiting for the victory, which you have already won.
+Therefore, in the name of humanity, I am justified here and now, in
+thanking you for this superb lesson in unselfish co-operation. This
+lesson in self evolution, which you have given to the world, is a result
+on your part as individuals, of a wise exercise of mutual trust and
+confidence in each other; reinforced by the combined industry, zeal,
+persistence and skill displayed in your noble efforts. By such efforts
+you have made the name of Solaris justly famous throughout the length
+and breadth of this Republic!</p>
+
+<p>"In conclusion, Mr. Chairman, and friends, allow me to again express my
+thanks for your greetings of welcome, and for every demonstration of
+loving appreciation which you have so generously showered upon me."</p>
+
+<p>While the hall still rang with the plaudits of a delighted people;
+before Fern Fenwick could move<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span> towards her seat, George and Gertrude
+Gerrish and Fillmore Flagg all hastened to her side, to offer
+congratulations on the eloquence and excellence of her impromptu
+address. To the observer, it was plainly evident that the effect of such
+a stirring speech on the assembled co-operators was unusually
+impressive. They seemed to be inspired with a deeper reverence and a
+more perfect loyalty of devotion for this remarkable woman, who had so
+charmed them by the power of her eloquence. Swayed by the intensity of
+this deep feeling which could not well express itself in noisy cheering;
+they eagerly pressed forward in a quiet orderly way toward the stage,
+where George Gerrish was waiting to introduce them individually to our
+heroine, the patroness of the farm. Smiling graciously as they
+approached and were presented, she took each one by the hand in such an
+earnest cordial manner, that all feelings of shyness or embarassment
+were quickly banished. After the exchange of a few words of pleasant
+greeting, they quietly returned to their seats. As the reception
+progressed, many of the members improved the brief moments in expressing
+their grateful appreciation, for the words of praise which she had so
+enthusiastically bestowed upon them, in a speech they could never forget.</p>
+
+<p>When all were again seated, George Gerrish announced that the program
+for the evening would close with three short selections, to be given by
+volunteer members from the ranks of the musical and dramatic clubs. With
+this part of the entertainment finished, before the people could be
+dismissed, Fern Fenwick arose to bid them good night, and to thank them
+for such a charming reception, which she pronounced "simply delightful!"</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVII.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE FESTIVAL.</h3>
+
+<p>Fortunately for the tree-planters, the day of the celebration at
+Solaris, proved exceptionally fine! No one could resist the exhilarating
+tonic of such a perfect day! A day made more glorious by a cloudless
+expanse of blue sky, a flood of golden sunlight, and breezes, soft as
+the balmy breath of gentle spring could make them!</p>
+
+<p>The tools and the potted trees, each labeled with the name of the
+planter, were hauled in wagons from the nursery to the site of the
+future forest, where the ground had already been prepared to receive them.</p>
+
+<p>At nine o'clock in the morning the band in the public square began to
+play, as the signal for the people to assemble. At ten the procession
+was formed, ready to march to the planting grounds. First: the band
+under the leadership of Gilbert Gerrish. Second: the children in
+alternating fours of boys and girls. Third: the adults in the same
+order; followed by the carriages with the President, the Patroness, Mrs.
+Bainbridge, Fillmore Flagg and Gertrude Gerrish.</p>
+
+<p>Having reached the grounds, the procession was massed into a square of
+close columns. The ranks were divided into planting classes of twenty,
+with an instructor for each class. After the classification, the double
+quartet of mixed voices, sang a hymn to the forest; the assembly joining
+in the chorus. As the square broke up, the members of each class,
+carrying tools and plants, followed the teacher to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span> the particular
+planting grounds prepared for them. At a given signal, three blasts from
+the bugle, the work began, and went merrily forward, with much vigor and
+a vast deal of lively chatter. In just twenty minutes, the planting was
+finished and the square reformed. The children altogether as a chorus,
+then gave "An Ode to Growing Trees," which they rendered so sweetly and
+so effectively, that they earned a great deal of well deserved praise.
+The order for the return march was sounded&mdash;the procession quickly
+re-formed and returned to the village in the same order in which it came.</p>
+
+<p>A twenty-minute band-concert, given in the large dancing pavillion in
+the center of the public square, came next, and closed the order of
+exercises for the forenoon.</p>
+
+<p>An intermission until one o'clock was declared.</p>
+
+<p>Promptly at one o'clock the people were again assembled in the great
+hall of education and amusement, to hear the oration. The hall itself
+was handsomely decorated for the occasion, with a profusion of flags and
+ribbons. The roomy platform was transformed into a garden of verdure, by
+a brilliant array of ferns, flowers, palms, potted plants and young
+trees. Seated near the center of the platform were Fern Fenwick, Mrs.
+Bainbridge, Gertrude Gerrish, Fillmore Flagg and George Gerrish. The
+latter, as the president of the farm company, in a few well chosen
+words, introduced General Manager Flagg, as the orator of the day.</p>
+
+<p>Inspired by the cheers which greeted him, happy in the presence of his
+beloved Fern; yet with all alert, and confident of his complete mastery
+of the subject; our hero never before seemed quite so handsome as when
+he began to speak.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE ORATION.</h3>
+
+<p>"People of Solaris, I thank you for the honor of having been chosen as
+the orator, for this our first Arbor-day Celebration! I assure you, that
+I am both proud and happy to serve you in that capacity!</p>
+
+<p>"In the beginning, let us consider the art of tree-planting, from the
+stand-point of an acorn, as being a typical nut or tree-bearing seed,
+such as I now hold in my hand.</p>
+
+<p>"This tiny nut, with such a smooth hard shell of polished brown,
+contains a kernel with magical possibilities. Within this kernel,
+closely packed and safely cradled, lies the embryo oak. So small and so
+insignificant is this nut, that one may travel for months over land and
+sea, with the possible ancestor of a half-dozen future oak-forests
+snugly tucked away in some inside pocket. This, too, without ever once
+receiving a demand from the lynx-eyed custom officials, for the payment
+of either import or export duties upon it. Half way round the globe,
+from the spot occupied by its parent tree, this highly-polished,
+much-traveled nut, if given the proper conditions, will at once commence
+the mysterious transformation process, which marks the beginning of the
+life and growth of another oak tree. This growth, under favorable
+circumstances, may continue for the historical period of ten centuries.
+Ministering meanwhile, to the needs of forty passing generations of
+people. Reproducing itself, perhaps a million times in the aggregate, by
+the enormous annual crops of acorns it may have borne. What a history of
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span>marvels, is the history of such a growth! As it is with the oak, so it
+is in a large measure, with all other trees which are produced from seeds.</p>
+
+<p>"This fascinatingly mysterious process of passing from seed to
+plant,&mdash;from passive to active life, we have watched with keen interest
+and growing pleasure, as from week to week, in the seed beds and nursery
+rows of our tree-garden, it has steadily progressed, under the varying
+conditions of sunshine and storm. Having reached a suitable size for
+transplanting, we have this morning commenced the actual work of tree
+planting, by carefully placing the young trees in the proper soil and
+location, where they may complete the sturdy growth they have so well
+begun. The preparatory work, we began some months ago, when as
+individuals, we selected the three trees, of some one chosen variety,
+which we especially desired to plant in forest formation, on the
+occasion of this festival.</p>
+
+<p>"By the months of thoughtful care and attention which we have given to
+these trees, we have gained a personal interest in them which we cannot
+lose. In this initiative work, I am convinced that we have wisely
+established such a broad foundation of general interest in forestry and
+kindred topics, that sooner or later, it will lead us to a complete
+mastery of the whole subject. The individual interest thus established,
+will continue to expand until it embraces the entire tree-family of the
+world. By constantly adding to our stores of knowledge in this
+direction, we shall be surprised to find how much we have extended our
+field of pleasure. In the same ratio, there will come to us a
+corresponding increase of affection and appreciation for our
+benefactors, the trees; a solace in the sojourn of life, so generously<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span>
+supplied by Mother Nature.</p>
+
+<p>"The location of Solaris as an experimental tree-planting farm, is
+particularly fortunate. It possesses a soil and climate which will
+promote the perfect growth of more than one hundred different varieties
+of trees. Among these, we find a majority of the valuable timber and
+nut-bearing trees of the world. Consequently, a very wide field of
+experimentation awaits our efforts. Let us improve our splendid
+opportunities so industriously, that a wide spread interest in forestry,
+may follow and become firmly established in the minds of the people of our Republic.</p>
+
+<p>"By way of an introduction to the general subject, of the importance of
+trees, as an adjunct to the progress, welfare and civilization of
+mankind. I wish to relate to you the story of my first great lesson in
+the seductive lore of forestry.</p>
+
+<p>"Near the beginning of the last decade of the Nineteenth Century, in the
+year of 1893, it was my good fortune to visit the World's Columbian
+Exposition at Chicago. I was then a lad of fifteen years, full of boyish
+enthusiasm, in the enjoyment of my first vacation from the preparatory
+school, where I was being fitted for my collegiate course.</p>
+
+<p>"I was born and reared on my father's farm, on the broad rolling
+prairies of Nebraska; up to that time I had never been far from home; as
+a consequence my knowledge of growing trees was limited to the following
+fast-growing varieties, which were planted and cultivated by prairie
+farmers for fuel, fencing and storm-protection. I will name these
+varieties in the order of their value for fuel and timber. White ash,
+soft maple, cottonwood and white willow. At a later period I learned
+that perhaps<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span> with the exception of white ash, the timber furnished by
+these trees, is considered valueless, in the markets of the world.</p>
+
+<p>"Under such circumstances you may imagine my astonishment when I first
+beheld that wonderfully unique, Forestry Building; with its bristling
+array of tree-trunk flag poles. Try first to picture in your mind's eye,
+a building in the form of a parallelogram, large enough to afford two
+acres of floor-space; with the first story surrounded on every side by a
+wide, open veranda: with a full length second story one hundred feet
+wide, rising gracefully from the central roof of the first; altogether,
+completing a design of exterior so boldly rustic in its general effect,
+as to suggest the idea of trees and forests at every point; then, you
+may get the delightfully novel effect, which the architect conveyed to
+my mind as I approached this curiously fascinating structure. A closer
+inspection increased the rustic effect of the general design. The main
+outside walls, were composed of thousands of wide, bark-coated slabs,
+cut from the choice typical trees of our American forests.</p>
+
+<p>"The wide roof, was in itself an ideal creation; it was thickly covered
+with curving tiles of rough bark, in alternating layers of the varying
+kinds, which formed a picturesque combination redolent with the spicy
+resinous odors of birch, basswood, hemlock and fir.</p>
+
+<p>"Completely encircling the building, with feet firmly planted on its
+solid stone foundation, rising to the roof through the floor of the
+veranda at its outer edge, were the thickly planted supporting pillars.
+These pillars like a long line of watchful sentinels, were placed in
+trios. The two outside pillars of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span> each trio, were only separated from
+the middle one by a few inches of space, and were as nearly as possible,
+ten inches in diameter. The one in the center was much larger and held
+the post of honor as the flag bearer of its triumvirate. By pushing its
+way through the roof it became a huge flag pole, fifty feet from base to
+tip, with a beautiful banner proudly waving from its ball crowned
+summit. These pillars, both large and small, were bark-coated below the
+roof. Each one had been carefully selected for its symmetrical
+straightness, as a representative tree from the different forests of the
+world. Altogether, they formed a most interesting collection, to which
+might well be devoted, many hours of admiring inspection, by every lover of trees.</p>
+
+<p>"A wide lattice work of bark-laden tree limbs, of a uniform size
+completed the charmingly rustic cornice, which, like some endless
+curtain seemed to hang suspended from the caves of this bark-thatched roof.</p>
+
+<p>"Having sufficiently studied the exterior beauties of this remarkable
+building, of such arborescent magnificence; let us mount the steps to
+the broad, breezy veranda. Pausing a moment to inhale the refreshing
+coolness of the crisp air; and to admire the wave curving sparkle of the
+blue waters of Lake Michigan, we then pass to the shining portal of
+richly colored, highly polished woods, which form the main entrance.
+Here, covering the entire available floor-space, piled high in splendid
+profusion; we behold the garnered riches from the forests of the world.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not attempt to describe my varying emotions of wonder and
+delight, as I wandered for hours through a bewildering maze of the
+wonderful exhibits, which formed this unrivalled collection of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span> choice
+woods. As I advanced, my admiration for its variety and extent continued
+to grow. I began to perceive that, spread out before me, was the
+opportunity of a life time, which, if properly utilized would prove for
+me the permanent foundation of an education on the subject of timber,
+trees and forestry products. With this realization came the resolve,
+that I would devote time enough to each exhibit, to permit me to examine
+it in detail, leisurely and carefully.</p>
+
+<p>"The separate exhibits from the States of the Union and from other
+nations, were skillfully classified and so artistically arranged, as to
+show in the most effective manner the lovely grain, color and finished
+beauty, of the different woods.</p>
+
+<p>"All the valuable timbers were represented by three specimens. The first
+and second, were polished planks displaying the grain-finish, of both
+radial and transverse sections. The third, a cross section or disc,
+showing the heart, body-wood, sap-wood and bark; the full size of the
+tree represented. These discs proved by far the most interesting part of
+the exhibit. To me they were a revelation! They at once introduced me to
+the individuality of the tree. I could read the history of its life as I
+scanned the ever-widening circle of annual rings, which, from center to
+circumference, marked the slow growth of ages, as the tree advanced from
+infancy to maturity.</p>
+
+<p>"By means of these polished discs, I could touch and become personally
+acquainted with the precious, the famous, and the historical trees of
+the world. The mighty teak and deodar from India. The giant mahogany
+from Central America. The olive of Palestine. The cedars of Lebanon. The
+ancient oaks<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span> of Dodona. The magnificent dye-wood and rosewood of
+Brazil. The majestic live-oak of Florida. The druidical-oaks of England.
+The smooth, elastic bamboo, which by its size and strength becomes so
+useful in house-building, in both China and Japan. The towering spruces
+and sugar pines of our Pacific Coast. The great elms of New England. The
+justly famous, white pines of Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. The
+wonderful spice-woods of Java and Ceylon. The curious soap and rubber
+trees of Brazil. The tall sugar maples and smooth, symmetrical beeches
+of New York. The great hemlocks of Pennsylvania. The stately cypress,
+the royal tulip tree, and the beautiful evergreen white holly, of our
+southern forests. The highly prized black-walnut of Tennessee and North
+Carolina. The fruitful, free-growing chestnut, so common all over the
+United States. Finally, that towering king of all trees, the matchless
+mammoth redwood of California.</p>
+
+<p>"These redwoods are such veritable giants in size, that the half disc
+displayed in the California Section, with its thick ring of bark on the
+rounding side uppermost, stood sixteen feet high. From the huge trunk of
+this tree came the accompanying plank of such extraordinary dimensions,
+that a placard proclaimed it the largest plank the world ever saw. This
+plank was five inches thick, twenty-five feet long and sixteen feet nine
+inches wide; containing about two thousand feet of lumber, board measure.</p>
+
+<p>"In the Brazilian Section I found a large disc, accompanied by a
+specimen branch, with the leaves, flowers and fruit of a most remarkable
+tree. To this tree, the world owes a debt of gratitude for its generous
+unfailing supply of a rich wholesome food. Almost every child through
+the sense of sight, touch<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span> and taste, is familiar with that peculiar,
+triangular-shaped, sharp-edged, black-coated nut of commerce, with such
+a delicious kernel, known as the brazil nut. Very few however, know
+anything of the tree which bears them, or how they are attached to the
+branches from which they are suspended. As it is a matter of such
+general interest to both old and young, I shall take the liberty of
+devoting a few moments to a brief description of this gigantic tree,
+which the botanist has named 'The Bertholletia Excelsa.'</p>
+
+<p>"These wonderful trees grow most abundantly in the valleys of the
+Amazons, and generally throughout tropical America. In size and beauty,
+they rank as monarchs of their native forests. They attain an average
+height of one hundred and thirty feet, having smooth cylindrical,
+beautifully proportioned bodies; which often have the astonishing
+diameter of fourteen feet, when measured fifty feet above the ground.
+Like columns in some vast cathedral, these majestic representatives of
+the vegetable kingdom, raise their massive trunks one hundred feet
+toward heaven, before they commence to branch out, and to form a medium
+sized, symmetrical top. At this height grow the flowers and fruits.</p>
+
+<p>"The fruits are globular, with a diameter of five or six inches. Each
+fruit contains within its black, woody, shell, from eighteen to
+twenty-five closely packed seeds or brazil-nuts. These fruits, as they
+ripen, fall from their lofty position. At the proper season they are
+collected, broken open and marketed by the Indians, who roam through
+these dark, gloomy, miasmatic forests. The extraordinary abundance of
+the crop may be measured by the fact, that one port alone on the Amazon
+River, exports annually more than fifty millions of these excellent nuts.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span></p><p>"Brazil-nuts are largely eaten as a nutritious and palatable food, by a
+multitude of people in many lands. They yield a generous supply of fine
+bland oil, which is highly prized for use in cookery, and also for
+lubricating all kinds of delicate machinery.</p>
+
+<p>"The timber furnished by these fruitful and beautiful trees, is light
+and durable, easily worked, well adapted to the purpose of
+boat-building; especially canoes of the largest size. Indeed! I may add
+as a final tribute to these noble trees, that they are the peculiar
+product of the American Continent, of which it may well be proud! They
+have bodies so tall, so straight, so large, so symmetrical, so free from
+knots, and so easily dug out, that the largest ship used by the hardy
+and fearless old Vikings of the Eleventh Century, could easily have been
+fashioned from a single one!</p>
+
+<p>"In connection with the main exhibit in the Forestry Building itself, I
+visited and examined the magnificent and astonishing timber displays
+shown in the State buildings of California, Oregon, and Washington.
+These exhibits were in every way worthy of those three great states of
+the Pacific Coast; they also served to largely increase the
+preponderance of the exhibit from the United States as a whole, over
+that of all other nations combined. The demonstrated extent, variety and
+wealth of our timber supply, was a matter of profound astonishment to
+visitors from other lands; while at the same time these things were
+equally a source of surprise and pride to every citizen of the Republic who saw them.</p>
+
+<p>"After a most delightfully well spent week, devoted almost entirely to
+forestry productions, I was prepared to sum up my impressions of the
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span>significance and value of the knowledge I had gained in my first
+lesson. It was plain to me that the magnitude and importance of the
+subject, was but little understood or appreciated, by the average
+American citizen. I saw that our people were very much in need of some
+great object lesson like the forestry exhibit of the Columbian
+Exposition, to make them properly realize the immensity of our debt of
+gratitude to Mother Nature for her munificent gift of trees to mankind.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall now conclude my story of the Forestry Exposition, by naming
+from the exhibit the following, as a few of the many things of use and
+value, which we owe to our benefactors, the trees; things which are so
+necessary to our comfort and happiness, which in so many ways, affect
+the progress, welfare and civilization of the world's people.</p>
+
+<p>"Among the more important gifts from the trees I shall place lumber and
+shingles, used in the construction of houses, barns and all kinds of
+habitable or industrial buildings; bridges, boats, ships and sailing
+vessels of all kinds; furniture, fencing and a great variety of farming
+utensils. Under the head of fuel, I may mention fire-wood and charcoal.
+In the class of vehicles we have wagons and all kinds of carriages from
+the stage coach to the pullman palace car. Some kind of lumber or timber
+enters very largely into the construction of almost every kind of
+machinery. In the miscellaneous group we find wood-alcohol, dye-wood,
+medicinal barks, roots and galls; precious gums, resins and all of the
+spices; the various kinds of excelsior used for packing, bedding and
+upholstery; wood-pulp and paper, inlaid work, vegetable ivory, and
+cocoanut shells; the entire series of willow ware, and wooden, or<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span>
+hollow ware. In food products, we are confronted by a most astonishing
+array of edible sprouts, berries, delicious fruits and nutritious nuts,
+forming altogether a multitude of things which, in civilized life, we
+could not possibly do without.</p>
+
+<p>"In considering the impressions conveyed to our minds by growing trees,
+which inherently possess a sturdy vitality, that can resist the
+vicissitudes of passing ages; we instinctively recognize them as
+nature's noblest gift to man. As majestic monarchs, in the empire of
+plant life, they appeal to us as companions, which become dearer with
+the associations of each passing year, until love for them becomes a
+feeling almost akin to worship.</p>
+
+<p>"This worshipful feeling, no doubt, comes to us as a heritage from a
+remote ancestry. In the days of ancient story, groves of noble trees
+offered primitive man, nature's grandest and most appropriate
+cathedrals, for the celebration of his worshipful rites. Is it a matter
+of wonder, that he unhesitatingly accorded to them, the distinction of
+being sacred? The emotional nature of this primitive man was a mystery
+which he could neither understand nor control. Often, he suffered untold
+tortures from the agonizing perturbations to which it easily became a
+prey. Hidden in the deep shade of his sacred grove, in his happier
+moments, the sighing of each passing breeze through his leafy canopy,
+become to his untrained ear, the whispered blessing of nature's placated
+God! When the dark pall of the Storm King shrouded all things with a
+terrifying gloom, the restless moaning of such a mass of writhing
+boughs, lashed by the fury of the blast, became the angry shriek of the
+Demons of Destruction, which left him prostrate and trembling in the
+throes of a paroxysm<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span> of worshipful fear. Analyzed, these actions show
+the result of man's environment.</p>
+
+<p>"By the way of a contrast, and as a testimonial to the planetary growth
+of man's emotional nature, gained from the ages of progress; let us
+question modern man as he leans confidingly, in a contemplative mood,
+against the broad trunk of some giant of the forest. With uncovered
+head, he muses in silence; he senses a vague feeling of awe for this
+magnificent specimen of matured life in the vegetable world. With every
+sense attuned to the overtones and undertones, produced by the
+vibrations of nature's harp; he catches the rythmic song of the sappy
+currents, as they swiftly fly to feed the swelling cells, where the
+building energy of their tiny hearts of protoplasm, ceaselessly changes
+the elements of soil and sunlight, into the woody fibre of this mighty
+tree. How beautiful! How like the complicated mechanism of the human
+body! Wonderingly he questions! Can it be possible, that the pulsing
+energy of the protoplasmic life of the tree, is identical with that of
+man, and all other forms of cosmic life? Does each great throb of the
+planetary heart, re-energize and move in unison, the protoplasmic
+centers of all forms of life? Who shall say?</p>
+
+<p>"In discussing the peculiar fitness of our present organization, to deal
+effectually with the question of tree planting, we discover, that in the
+co-operative association of so many people, we possess a marked
+advantage over the small farmer, which enables us to treat large tracts
+of land as a single farm; by devoting all of the rough, stony ground,
+steep hill sides, unsightly gullies and areas of poor, gravelly soils,
+to the purposes of timber and fruit culture.</p>
+
+<p>"Harmoniously united, we are financially and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span>intellectually stronger;
+less influenced or retarded by motives of selfishness and greed;
+surrounded by conditions of easy comfort; armed with skill by study and
+experience; and withal inspired by a knowledge of the great necessity
+for replacing our forests; we are exceptionally well prepared to carry
+forward this great work, so successfully and to such an extent, that a
+few decades hence our hill sides and mountains, shall be re-clothed with
+beautiful forests of much finer trees&mdash;all choice timber&mdash;vastly more
+valuable than the original stock.</p>
+
+<p>"By more systematic methods of terracing the steep hills; by close
+planting of the young trees, with varieties selected by reason of their
+value for lumber, timber, nuts and fruit; by a judicious thinning out of
+these young trees so soon as they have grown to a useful size; a
+profitable crop of timber may be secured each year, with a positive
+benefit to the remaining trees. This operation may be repeated many
+times, before a partial replanting becomes necessary. By an extended use
+of these methods, the excellence of the timber supply may be doubled,
+while the aggregate yield will be trebled. The landscape will be
+beautified and permanently changed. Barren, unprofitable hills, and
+rough unsightly mountain tracts, rejoicing in a new growth of beautiful
+verdure-clad trees, will become objects of general admiration; while at
+the same time, the value of these lands, as a source of wealth, will be
+increased a thousand fold.</p>
+
+<p>"As these forests continue to grow, the shade deepens, the store of
+retained moisture increases, perceptible changes in the climate are
+effected; the evils of flood, erosion and drought are checked; the soil
+made deeper and richer; the rainfall largely <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span>increased; the climatic
+conditions become more genial, and the cooling, drouth-dispelling rains
+become more frequent.</p>
+
+<p>"The interesting and beautiful process, by which these changes are
+accomplished, may be briefly stated as follows: With the growth of each
+year, the area of the leafy surfaces of these forest trees is enormously
+extended. Measured by the same increasing ratio, many additional
+thousands of tons of moisture are pumped up and given to the winds in
+the form of a fine vapor, by the tireless industry of these lovely
+leaves. This vapor is taken up by the clouds&mdash;nature's aerial
+reservoirs. Soon this treasure of waters thus accumulated, is restored
+to the thirsty earth by a largely increased rainfall. Autumnal frosts
+ripen and loosen each crop of leaves; they fall silently to the ground,
+where they quickly form a thick, soft carpet of ever increasing
+thickness. Through the action of shade and moisture, the under surface
+of this carpet becomes a layer of fine leaf mold, which in turn offers
+rich food for the sustenance of millions of tiny feeding rootlets from
+the trees of the forest. The closely interwoven fibre of these rootlets,
+everywhere forms a strong web for the carpet, which firmly holds in
+place the soft, porous, underlying soil, safely protecting it from the
+destructive erosion which, especially on the steeper slopes, swiftly
+follows the dashing violence of heavy rain storms. Gradually this leafy
+carpet grows in strength and thickness; like some great sponge it sucks
+up and retains the waters of the snows of winter, with those of the
+increased rain-fall of summer.</p>
+
+<p>"Thousands of mountain torrents, the beginnings of destructive floods,
+are thus checked, absorbed and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span> shorn of their disintegrating energies.
+The garnered waters from this wonderful leafy sponge, slowly percolate
+through the soil, to reappear in a multitude of living springs of pure
+sparkling water. From these springs gently flow the tiny rivulets, which
+in turn become the full streams that gladden the plains and valleys
+throughout the long scorching months of summer.</p>
+
+<p>"By a close analysis of the beneficial results which follow the annual
+recurrence of these beautiful processes, we may form a correct estimate
+of the vast importance of this tree-planting labor, to which this day,
+we gladly offer our best energies and our best thought. We begin to
+perceive the magnitude of the blessing which may be conferred on
+mankind, in general and on the agriculturist in particular, by the
+continued work of covering our hills and mountains with valuable forests.</p>
+
+<p>"We have discovered from nature the secret of a power that shall enable
+us to control many of our environmental conditions. We hold the key to
+the solution of a great problem, which for the past quarter of a
+century, has puzzled the brightest minds and best thinkers among our
+statesmen. The problem of how best to control the devastating floods,
+which each year, with increasing power and violence, continue to destroy
+hundreds of lives and millions of dollars worth of property, on the
+farms and in the towns and cities throughout the river valleys of our
+broad land. For this growing terror, we hold the cure! With the
+completion of this system of forestry, the floods will disappear. The
+interests of our coastwise and inland commerce, will be greatly extended
+and benefited. Many rivers, with beds choked and obstructed by the
+unsightly<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span> rocks and debris deposited by the annual floods, and for the
+same reason, dry for many months in each year, will again become
+navigable. Perennial streams, fed by permanent mountain springs, will
+serve to keep these rivers with full channels throughout the year.</p>
+
+<p>"The clear water will be free from the lighter silt which now finds its
+way to the sea; slowly filling up the river-mouth harbor, and finally
+destroying the commerce of the city which depends upon it. In this way,
+every individual, child or adult, who plants a tree, aids directly in
+the restoring some distant seaport to its former commercial importance;
+and has proudly earned the right to be placed as an important working
+member, on the peoples' great 'Committee for Improvement of Rivers and Harbors.'</p>
+
+<p>"Tree-planting, persistent tree-planting, by all classes of agricultural
+people, offers the only means or hope of checking the wide-spread,
+calamity-producing floods and erosions, which commenced with the
+destruction of our mountain forests. The destructive process is
+accelerated with each passing year. Unchecked, it threatens, a few
+centuries hence, to rob us of all fertile soil; to reduce our hills and
+mountains to a dreary waste of bare, sun-scorched rocks: our plains and
+valleys, to uninhabitable deserts. United action is therefore imperative!</p>
+
+<p>"Other incentives, worthy of our attention, urge us to commence the
+work. By yielding even one-half of the area of our tillable lands to the
+needs of forestry, we have all the richest lands left in the remaining
+half. The productiveness and fertility of these lands is sure to be
+speedily doubled. The amount of labor required to produce the same crops
+from the diminished areas, will be reduced one-half.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span> A most important
+consideration!</p>
+
+<p>"The third generation of people, after the planting of these forests,
+will gather from them, such an abundant harvest of nuts, fruits, and
+valuable timbers, as will more than repay the entire cost of the land
+and labor required to produce them; leaving a handsome surplus to be
+devoted to carrying forward the work on a still larger scale; in regions
+less promising and more remote, even within the borders of the arid
+lands. With this lesson before us, how can we hesitate or falter in our
+efforts to successfully carry forward this important work?</p>
+
+<p>"I wish now, to call your attention to the following facts regarding the
+farms and farmers of our Republic, which altogether offer additional
+incentives for the speedy adoption of co-operative farming on a scale
+large enough to admit of timber culture, as the only available source of
+relief. The significance of these facts has scarcely been considered, by
+those most deeply interested. The farming lands now owned or controlled
+by our agricultural people, represent the accumulated capital or savings
+of a life time; frequently of several generations of the same family.</p>
+
+<p>"A steady decline in the market values of all farm products during the
+past twenty-five years, has in the same ratio, affected the selling
+value of the farm to such an extent, that from forty to fifty per cent
+of its value at the commencement of the decline, has been swept away and
+lost to the farmer, from the credit side of his available resources.
+This alarming shrinkage, has in the aggregate, amounted to many
+millions, yes, billions of dollars! The financial distress which has
+followed, has correspondingly affected many other industries. It has
+been the real cause<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span> of the forced sale of many fine farms at such
+ruinously low prices, as to sacrifice at one blow, the savings of a
+life-time. Each sale of this character serves to depress the market
+value of all lands in that particular locality. In this way the disaster
+spreads and gathers additional force.</p>
+
+<p>"A very large number of farmers, who have not as yet been forced to sell
+their farms, have found themselves so financially cramped, as to be
+unable to secure the additional lands they had hoped and planned to
+purchase for their children. What is the result? A most abundant harvest
+of blasted hopes for the sons and daughters of our American farms!</p>
+
+<p>"Capital in the hands of shrewd people, is always on the alert, waiting
+for such opportunities for investment. These investors through capital
+wish to live without effort, upon the proceeds of the labor of others.
+They seem to understand clearly, that to own land, is to own the
+services of the people who must have access to the land in order to
+live. This is why a land monopoly is more to be feared than other kind.
+For this reason we may well be alarmed, as we note from time to time,
+the large tracts of land which are being purchased by wealthy
+individuals, foreign syndicates, home corporations and land monopolists
+generally, who are quietly operating, while prices are so abnormally
+low, to obtain such complete control of our valuable agricultural lands,
+as will enable them in the near future, by a concert of action, to raise
+prices to such a pitch, that practically they would then be beyond the
+reach of the ordinary farmer.</p>
+
+<p>"These shrewd, far-seeing monopolists, having obtained control of the
+lands in question, can dictate such rents to all applicants, as will
+barely enable<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span> them to live. As a matter of fact, it is quite probable
+that they would much prefer not to rent their lands, because they could
+save for their own pockets, the wages of a great many workers, for at
+least five months in each year, by placing five-thousand-acre-farms in
+charge of a superintendent; who with two assistants, could live on the
+farm, taking proper care of the stock, tools and machinery, throughout
+the year. During the seven busy months, beginning about the first of
+April, transient labor, of the homeless tramp order, could easily be
+procured to work by the day, week or month, as the needs of the farm might demand.</p>
+
+<p>"The growing competition for even this kind of uncertain employment,
+would tend constantly to reduce the wages. The danger from this source
+has been fully demonstrated during the past twenty-five years, by the
+adoption of this disposition of their holdings, on the part of a great
+number of large land owners. The success of the bonanza farm, has proved
+perniciously infectious. Our small farmers, already in financial
+distress, cannot hope to compete with such large farms, so recklessly
+cropped by the monopolist for the largest possible cash returns, without
+regard for the future condition of the soil. To double the capital
+invested in five years' time, is the only concern of the investor.
+Whatever the land will sell for thereafter, is only so much additional profit.</p>
+
+<p>"We cannot close our eyes to these warning facts. They foretell the
+coming whirlwind of disaster. We may be sure that, if these things are
+allowed to continue without opposition, long before the close of the
+twentieth century, our agricultural people will be reduced individually
+to the abject serfdom of a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span> houseless, homeless day-laborer. At this
+time it is almost impossible for a majority of the sons and daughters of
+the farms of our Republic to obtain possession of enough land to enable
+them to follow in the footsteps of their parents, by devoting their
+lives to agricultural pursuits. Many of them have already entered the
+downward path of the unfortunate tenant. Many others have been forced to
+find employment in other pursuits.</p>
+
+<p>"You ask how can this coming disaster be averted? How can our people be
+saved from such a hopeless future?</p>
+
+<p>"I answer, by the farmers, united with those who wish to become farmers,
+coming together everywhere in force; by pooling their issues; by helping
+themselves; by organizing co-operative farms like this, armed with
+schools in which skilled workmen may be taught to successfully carry on
+profitable allied manufacturing industries. Monopolistic farms cannot
+then successfully compete. With demonstrations, such as we are making
+here to-day, springing up by hundreds and thousands in each county and
+state, during the next thirty years, what may we expect? The last
+remaining serf will have been emancipated. The hopeless tenant and the
+landless farmer can no longer be found. No one can be induced to toil,
+for owners of the monopolistic farm. The owners will not and cannot work
+themselves. The experience of a few unprofitable years will urge them to
+sell their lands to the co-operators at such prices as they may be
+inclined to offer. The victory will be ours. A glorious victory truly!
+But, we must not expect to gain this victory without a severe struggle.
+In the earlier stages of the movement, the monopolist will soon
+recognize the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span>co-operative farm as an enemy which must be fought to the
+bitter end, must be stamped out. To this end they will strive in every
+way to prevent us from obtaining possession of desirable lands.</p>
+
+<p>"This determined opposition we must expect and be prepared to meet.
+Forestry will help us to another solution of the problem. As the
+tree-planting farms continue to multiply, the increased rainfall will
+cause the area of tillable lands, to gradually extend beyond the borders
+of the arid lands. Therefore in case of necessity, we may turn to these
+arid lands for relief. In such an event, the question of forestry
+becomes an important factor.</p>
+
+<p>"By referring to the tenth annual report of the director of the U. S.
+Geological Survey, we learn that the arid regions of the United States,
+comprise the astonishing area of one million, three hundred thousand
+square miles. This immense region contains more than one-third of all
+our lands; a territory much larger than that of the thirteen original
+states combined. North and south, it stretches for hundreds of miles on
+either side of the Rocky Mountain Range, that great backbone and
+water-shed of our Continent. On the west, it covers nearly all of the
+surface of that vast, broken and irregular basin, lying between the
+Rocky and Sierra Nevada Mountains. On the east, it occupies that
+extended and peculiar domain of high plateaus, treeless plains and
+alkali barrens, known as the Great American Desert.</p>
+
+<p>"From this broad expanse of arid lands, in accordance with the
+statements of the survey officials, we may choose an area of one hundred
+and fifty thousand square miles of irrigable lands; that is lands which
+may be restored to productive fertility,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span> by means of irrigating ditches
+along the valleys, and by building great catch basins, near the head
+waters of a multitude of mountain streams, in which may be conserved,
+the wasting waters of melting snows and those of the heavy mountain
+rainfalls combined. At this point we may mention incidentally, that this
+area of irrigable lands could be largely increased, by covering the
+available slopes of the Rocky Mountains with dense forests of fine
+timber. With this accomplished, the annual rainfall would be doubled,
+while the necessary conditions would be established, which, a few
+decades hence might yield an annual crop of valuable timber, that would
+soon repay the entire cost of planting and culture.</p>
+
+<p>"In addition to the last named increase, we may add an area of lands
+equal in size to the state of Illinois, which are beyond the reach of
+irrigating streams. We find these lands along the eastern foothills of
+the Rocky Mountains, and around the borders of the Great American
+desert. They may easily be restored to fertility, by the skillfully
+applied labor of a legion of co-operative farms. At varying depths
+beneath these lands, flow perennial streams of artesian water. By the
+spouting, life-giving waters of a vast number of artesian wells, a large
+proportion of these desert lands can be transformed to an agricultural
+paradise. The cost of these wells, would be but little more than the
+expense of the labor required to bore them.</p>
+
+<p>"But, says the objector, are not these mostly alkali lands? Of course
+they are! And for that reason offer greater possibilities of value! Can
+they be made to grow wheat, and thus increase the bread supply? Is a
+question that comes from the mouths of the world's great army of bread
+eaters, six <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span>hundred million strong. Just think of it!</p>
+
+<p>"For reasons which I shall state presently, I hope to be able to show
+why these alkali lands when properly irrigated, can be made to produce
+abundant crops of wheat.</p>
+
+<p>"For the past twenty years, leading men of science, who, alive to the
+importance of increasing the world's supply of wheat; have given close
+attention to statistics which seemed to indicate that the yield per
+acre, of the wheat fields in all countries, is steadily decreasing.
+Decreasing to such an extent as to make it probable, that in the near
+future, the yield on a large proportion of these lands, will become too
+meagre to pay the cost of cultivation. A long series of carefully
+conducted experiments demonstrated the truth of these alarming statistics.</p>
+
+<p>"This discovery led to a general search for some cheap, available,
+chemical, compound, which might restore these worn out wheat lands to
+their former productiveness.</p>
+
+<p>"In an address, delivered at Bristol, England, near the close of the
+nineteenth century, by Professor William Crookes, president of the
+British Association for the advancement of science; he says; 'Wheat
+pre-eminently demands as a dominant manure, nitrogen fixed in the form
+of ammonia or nitric acid. Many years of experimentation with nitrate of
+soda, or Chili salt-petre, have proved it to be the most concentrated
+form of nitrogenous food demanded by growing wheat. This substance
+occurs native, over a narrow band of the plain of Tamarugal, in the
+northern province of Chili, between the Andes and the coast hills. In
+this rainless district for countless ages, the continuous fixation of
+atmospheric nitrogen by the soil, its conversion into nitrate by the
+slow transfiguration<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span> of billions of nitrifying organizations, its
+combination with soda, and the crystallization of the nitrate have been
+steadily proceeding, until the nitrate fields of Chili have become of
+vast importance, and promise to be of inestimably greater value in the
+future. The growing exports of nitrate from Chili at present, amount to
+about 1,200,000 tons annually.'</p>
+
+<p>"In carefully analyzing this lesson from the lips of Professor Crookes,
+we discover that the same peculiar climatic conditions which made a
+Chilian desert so valuable, have been continuously at work in our great
+American desert for a great many thousands of years.</p>
+
+<p>"For this reason, our uncounted acres of alkali lands, are so rich with
+stores of this valuable nitrogenous compound, that by proper treatment
+they may become the most valuable wheat-producing lands in the world.
+The desert shall become the source of abundance! Under the transforming
+influence of a generous water supply, forests shall spring up, and
+fields of waving grain shall flourish around the village homes of a
+happy, prosperous people! Altogether, we have an empire of these
+irrigable lands now worthless, awaiting the transforming labor of the
+homeless and landless, to restore them to productive fertility.</p>
+
+<p>"When thus restored, these lands, at the lowest estimate, will be worth
+the enormous sum of two billion, eight hundred and eighty million
+dollars, which in due time may be transferred to the credit side of the
+wealth account of the nation! Long before this available domain of such
+vast possibilities has been conquered and reclaimed, the longing desires
+of all who wish for land, and for agricultural lives, for themselves and
+their children, will have<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span> been most abundantly satisfied.</p>
+
+<p>"In looking over this broad field of possibilities spread so temptingly
+before us, we are able to discover the importance of the work of
+tree-planting, which now demands our attention. Strengthened by
+concerted action, encouraged by new ideas and better methods we become
+firm in our convictions, that it is an imperative duty for us to
+continue the good work. We must increase the number of our co-operative
+farms with their tree-planting schools, until, educated and moved by the
+force of so many demonstrations, a great majority of the people of this
+Republic shall demand, that the entire area of the range of the Rocky
+Mountains within our geographical limits, shall become a permanent,
+public park; with such a wealth of territory and variety of climate,
+such beauty of scenic grandeur and magnitude of picturesque proportions,
+as the world never saw before. This matchless reservation is to be
+devoted to the needs and uses of forestry, mining, the preservation of
+its great variety of natural curiosities, and of American Game.</p>
+
+<p>"In addition to this Pride-of-the-World-Park, the people shall also
+demand, that all of the most available portions of the mountains of the
+Pacific Coast Range, the Sierra Nevadas, the Alleghenies, the
+Adirondacks and the White Mountains, shall be reserved by the
+government, and set apart for the same uses and purposes.</p>
+
+<p>"With the passing of this magnificent domain of mountain territory to
+the permanent control of the government, would come the beginning of the
+great public forests; which would clothe with new beauty, cover and
+protect in the most useful manner, the principal water-sheds of our
+broad continental <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span>possessions. Thus increasing to a degree approaching
+perfection, the purity and abundance of the crystal flood, that shall
+flow from a countless multitude of new springs of living water. The
+volume of water from these springs, shall furnish a supply sufficient to
+maintain with full channels, a perpetual flow in that net-work of lakes
+and rivers, that arterial system of fertility and commerce, which
+variegates and adorns the bright face of our fair land.</p>
+
+<p>"Altogether, in considering the broad scope of this stupendous plan as a
+whole, we have before us a most important work, which must be
+accomplished! A work which affects the welfare and happiness of every
+citizen of our Republic! A work which is in every way worthy of our most
+earnest and persistent effort!</p>
+
+<p>"This day, we have made a propitious beginning, which augurs well for
+success. Let us on all occasions encourage tree-planting as a sacred
+duty which we owe to future generations! A duty which must not be
+neglected! From this time forward, let us strive in every way to
+organize a broader, wiser, more powerful movement! Carried forward by
+the resistless force of an enthusiasm born of a mighty purpose; with
+strong hands and willing hearts, let us undertake the speedy
+accomplishment of our chosen task! Let us remember our responsibilities
+as immortal beings! Let us be mindful that life on this plane of
+existence is very brief; that an eternity of countless ages lies beyond!
+Therefore we cannot afford to be selfish! Let us heed the warning of
+nature's just law of compensation, which declares that in the higher
+life, selfishness becomes a torment in comparison with which a crown of
+thorns would seem a coveted blessing!</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span></p><p>"In our devotion to this noble work, let us ignore all unworthy
+thoughts of self interest! Possibly we may not as mortals, live long
+enough in the material form to reap many of the benefits that are to
+follow. But, being immortal; and having passed to a higher realm, where
+we are endowed with a keener, broader, mental, and spiritual vision;
+lost to the sense of time or physical pain, we may then behold the
+results of our work, in the increased enjoyment of our children and our
+children's children; while the centuries, like moments, glide swiftly by
+and are lost in the endless procession of passing ages!</p>
+
+<p>"Finally, as an additional source of encouragement to continue a work
+which we may not live to see mature; let us consider carefully the
+significance of the fact, that he who causes two blades of grass to grow
+where only one grew before, is counted a public benefactor. Judged by
+the same standard, he who causes two trees to grow where only one grew
+before, is a benefactor of mankind, whose good works shall earn for him
+the blessings of a hundred generations! By the same logic, it surely
+follows, that the people, who cause a forest of trees to spring from the
+arid bosom of desert earth, become the distinguished benefactors of the
+human race, who offer shade, shelter, fuel, fertility and sustenance, to
+a thousand future generations! They shall be thrice blessed! Having
+arisen to the demands of a higher life of unselfishness, where the
+solidarity of all life is recognized as a self-evident truth; they have
+gathered a sufficient store of love and wisdom to admit them to the
+domain of causation. Classed as worthy workers in that domain, they are
+entrusted by nature, with the magical key which unlocks the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span> climatic
+gate, to her pent up floods of fertility.</p>
+
+<p>"In conclusion, people of Solaris, I leave this presentation of the
+subject for your earnest consideration until the recurrence of our next
+annual festival. During the interval, I feel confident that you will all
+join me in a closer study, of a topic which has already proved one of
+such absorbing interest,&mdash;of such vast importance.</p>
+
+<p>"Thanking you for your close attention, and for the frequent applause,
+which has demonstrated your approval, I recommend that we do now
+adjourn, to enjoy the waiting banquet which is to follow as the next
+order of the day."</p>
+
+<p class="center">*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;*</p>
+
+<p>Great applause greeted Fillmore Flagg at the close of his oration.
+George Gerrish arose and paid a glowing tribute to the wisdom and
+eloquence of the orator; after which, grasping him by both hands, he
+said, "Fillmore, I am proud of you! Solaris is more than proud of the
+masterful way in which you have treated the entire subject! Your
+presentation of the theme, seemed to me to be so perfect, so exhaustive
+and eloquent, that in the future I may not expect to again hear its equal."</p>
+
+<p>The next moment Fern Fenwick came forward, radiant in her loveliness,
+her beautiful eyes shining with emotions of love and gratified pride. In
+a voice, whose clear, well modulated tones, thrilled him as no music
+could, she said, "Nobly done, Mr. Flagg! I knew you would not disappoint
+me! Your speech was the most lovely poem in prose that I have ever
+heard! So perfectly charming, that I find it far beyond my best words of
+praise! In return for such an eloquent tribute, the trees should join in
+a <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span>grateful anthem! You have sounded the key-note; it is the evident
+destiny of co-operative farming in the twentieth century, to restore
+these noble trees to their rightful domain."</p>
+
+<p>The banquet, which followed the oration proved a great success. It was
+really one long, interwoven garland of witty speech and inspiring music,
+together with the merry jingle and melodious crash of silver and china.
+The enjoyable zest of the entertainment, was spiced and flavored with
+the appetizing aroma of an abundance of delicious, well-cooked food.
+Placed at the head of the first table, our hero and heroine were at all
+times the center of attraction; the observed of all observers. "A
+handsome couple, evidently heaven-ordained for each other," was the universal comment.</p>
+
+<p>The dance in the evening, was fittingly chosen as the closing function
+of this famous festival. In arranging the program, Fern and Fillmore
+were selected by the floor managers as the leading couple. Inspired by
+the music of an excellent band under the leadership of Gilbert Gerrish,
+the assembled guests with the vigor and enthusiasm of youth caught the
+prevailing spirit of merriment, and gave themselves up to the
+fascinating movement of musical measures. Lost in the charm of the mazy
+dance, the merrymakers noted not the flight of time. The last number on
+the program came all too soon for them.</p>
+
+<p>Dismissed by George Gerrish, the people of Solaris left the hall in a
+joyful mood. They declared with one accord, that the day of the
+tree-planting festival, had proved the happiest one on the farm.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIX.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE STORY OF GILBERT GERRISH; OR, THE STRENGTH OF THE WEAKEST UNIT.</h3>
+
+<p>To Gilbert Gerrish the day of the festival was one long to be
+remembered: a day so laden with enjoyment for him, that all
+consciousness of his affliction was blotted out. His musical genius was
+free and unfettered. In such a mood, the music he drew from his violin
+was more wonderful and entertaining than ever before. Fern Fenwick was
+astonished and delighted. She soon became so much interested, that at
+intervals between the dancing, she came upon the platform to engage him
+in conversation. Grateful for such marked attention from the
+distinguished patroness of the farm, the natural shyness and reticence
+of the young musician, was quickly dispelled. To Fern, it was remarkable
+how eloquently and interestingly he could talk upon almost every topic
+she chose to introduce. On the subject of ethical, social, inventive and
+educational work, as exemplified by the different phases of club life at
+the farm; Gilbert was at his best. He spoke with such enthusiasm and
+perfect knowledge of details that Fern Fenwick was profoundly impressed.
+She then and there determined, at the first convenient opportunity, to
+have Fillmore Flagg relate to her more in detail, the many incidents
+connected with his farm life, and how this interesting boy had managed
+in so short a time, to make himself such a universal favorite with the
+farm people, both old and young.</p>
+
+<p>That night before retiring, Gilbert told his mother<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span> in confidence, that
+Miss Fenwick was the brightest, most beautiful and most lovable woman he
+had ever met. "Tell me truly, Mamma! Do you think she is really in love
+with Mr. Flagg? I hope it may be true! For I know he deserves to win the
+love of the best and most charming woman that ever was born!"</p>
+
+<p>While this confidential interview between mother and son was in
+progress, Fern and Fillmore were speaking of Gilbert in such a way, that
+if overheard by Gertrude Gerrish it would have stirred the pride in her mother heart.</p>
+
+<p>"I declare, Fillmore!" said Fern, "to my mind that clever lad, Gilbert
+Gerrish, is one of the most astonishing products of Solaris Farm! You
+have promised to tell me the story of his life here on the farm. I am
+now ready to hear it. At the festival dance I had an opportunity to
+engage him in conversation, and the good fortune to so win his
+confidence, that he could talk to me without embarassment. It was then
+that I discovered what a brilliant intellectual prodigy, eloquent
+talker, skilled musician, and cultured artist he really was. There is
+something mysterious about his strong, intellectual, spiritual nature,
+which has aroused my interest in him, and my sympathy for him, to a
+degree that is very unusual for me. The more I know of him the more I
+wish to win his friendship.</p>
+
+<p>"What a terrible misfortune, that he is so afflicted by the deformity of
+that spinal trouble! I cannot help picturing him as possessed of a
+physique in harmony with his glorious intellectual and spiritual
+unfoldment. How naturally then, he could win the love of some equally
+gifted, noble woman. How happy they could make each other through the
+passing changes of a long and useful life. Aside from<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span> my speculative
+fancies, I do wonder what the future has in store for him? How bravely
+he bears himself! He does not seem inclined to be gloomy or
+misanthropical under the burden of his misfortune!"</p>
+
+<p>"I think, my dear Fern, that my story will unravel the mystery. I am
+delighted to find that you have already become interested in Gilbert,
+and have discovered so many of his good qualities! I can assure you that
+he is worthy of your sympathy and friendship! He is a noble fellow!
+Richly endowed, with a remarkable, intuitive, spiritual nature! His
+enthusiasm, persevering efforts and ingenious devices, have contributed
+much towards the success of this co-operative farm. The value and
+variety of his especial work in the department of experimental farming,
+has proved his extraordinary ability, and justly earned for him the
+title of the 'wonder worker of the farm!'</p>
+
+<p>"On account of Gilbert's frail form and sensitive nature, it was deemed
+wise by his ever watchful parents, to give him the protection of an
+isolated home life. For this purpose, a cozy cottage was built in the
+center of its own grounds, some distance away from all other buildings.
+This cottage was charmingly fitted and furnished in such style and taste
+as would satisfy the artistic ideas of this domestic trio, and at the
+same time, afford quiet, retired, spacious rooms, for Gilbert's musical
+and other studies. Rooms where violin and piano practice, at any hour
+that might suit his fancy, could disturb no one.</p>
+
+<p>"Referring to that haunting desire which impresses you to picture
+Gilbert as possessing a magnificent physique, in harmony with his
+brilliant, mental and spiritual unfoldment; I accept it as another proof
+of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span> the growth of his spiritual body to the beautiful proportions you
+seem to see. All psychics who come within the radius of his powerful,
+spiritual aura, sense or see this strong symmetrical body. His
+affectionate and emotional nature is beautifully developed. No one can
+appreciate the graces and charms of a refined, beautiful woman more
+keenly than Gilbert Gerrish! Yet, I know, that in this life, he does not
+for one moment, even dream of a possible marriage with any woman. He is
+loyally devoted to his spiritual ideal!</p>
+
+<p>"For many months, I have been to Gilbert a trusted friend and
+confidential companion. In this capacity, I have learned his story of
+the hidden romance of his young life. This story I will repeat to you as
+an illustration of the high order of his boyish character. It cannot
+fail to increase both your admiration and your respect, for this
+youthful devotee at the shrine of love.</p>
+
+<p>"When Gilbert was ten years old, while attending school at St. Louis, he
+became acquainted with Rita Estelle Ringwood. She was in many ways a
+remarkable girl; only two months younger than Gilbert. Tall and
+straight, with a well rounded figure, already as large as a maid of
+fourteen, Rita gave promise of an early development into a lovely woman.
+With a large, finely formed head, crowned by a luxuriant growth of soft,
+thick, wavy, chestnut hair; a smooth, creamy complexion, pleasing
+features, firm mouth and well rounded chin; large, full, soft, brown
+eyes, unusually expressive; a strong, well turned white throat and neck,
+symmetrical shoulders, perfectly formed hands and feet; and a well
+poised, graceful carriage, she appeared to Gilbert as some divine
+creature. From the first moment of meeting,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span> a strong bond of mutual
+attraction drew them together. If kept long apart, both became nervous
+and restless. When again united, they were quickly at peace with
+themselves and all the world. By a strange coincidence, as it
+transpired; Rita's parents lived in a house just across the street,
+almost in the front of the one occupied by the Gerrish family. Through
+the children, the parents soon became intimate friends. As Gilbert had
+never cared to play with boys of his own age, either on the streets or
+at school, it was natural under the circumstances, that he should devote
+himself entirely to Rita, as the only congenial playmate he had ever
+known. Very soon, as a consequence, the twain were almost always
+together, either in one home or the other. They read or studied from the
+same book, often pausing to discuss some question of more than usual
+interest. In music, they had the same tastes, the same predominating
+passion for it. Gilbert soon taught Rita to use the violin; while Rita
+in turn taught Gilbert to play the piano. Each could then alternate, in
+playing violin accompaniments to piano music. Much practice soon enabled
+these artistic children, to render such duets with thrilling effect. In
+so delightful an occupation, hours passed swiftly by. A series of
+selections were chosen for evening concerts. The parents were called in
+to enjoy them. In the eyes of the parents, both children were manifestly
+helpful to each other. Rita never seemed to notice Gilbert's misshapen
+body. She evidently responded, only to impressions emanating from his
+more perfect and dominant, spiritual body. Gilbert was conscious of this
+fact, and always seemed at ease in her presence. As the months flew
+swiftly by; these strange children grew<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></span> more devotedly fond of each
+other. Three summers had witnessed the growing together of these two
+harmoniously attuned souls.</p>
+
+<p>"The day following Gilbert's thirteenth birthday, he was depressed by
+some overshadowing cloud of sadness. He could not explain it, nor, could
+he throw it off. The sequel came the following week, when a great wave
+of pestilence, in the form of malignant typhoid fever, swept over the
+city. It claimed Rita as one of its first victims.</p>
+
+<p>"Heart broken! Rita's parents hastily returned to New York, where,
+surrounded by early associations, they vainly and hopelessly struggled
+to forget their terrible bereavement.</p>
+
+<p>"To Gilbert, the shock was frightful! His parents, George and Gertrude
+Gerrish were alarmed. They feared for his life! He wandered about with
+dry, staring eyes, like one in a trance. He could not weep! For days, he
+could neither eat nor drink! At last, came the crisis! Reason seemed
+about to leave her throne! Then it happened, that Gilbert grew strangely
+calm and hopeful.</p>
+
+<p>"In a few short days the improvement was magical. His beautiful eyes
+shone with the fires of new inspiration! Questioned by his parents, he
+assured them that Rita still lived. He knew that she was not dead!
+Clairvoyantly, he had seen her, more beautiful than ever.
+Clairaudiently, he had heard, over and over again, the sweet familiar
+tones of her voice. All this through his own mediumship and more
+besides. Controlling his hand and arm, in her own identical
+hand-writing, she had written to him long messages filled with loving
+consolation, bidding him look hopefully forward to a happy reunion in
+the land of the spirit, the home of the soul! Almost<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span> nightly in dreams,
+she came to him, when for happy hours they were again united in the
+enjoyment of the old familiar companionship, so dear to his waking memories.</p>
+
+<p>"Through Gilbert's mediumship, his parents became spiritualists. This
+happened some months before I visited them in St. Louis, on my first
+trip west, from Newburgh. Some months later, the family came to Solaris.</p>
+
+<p>"In a recent conversation, speaking to me of his life work, his hopes
+and his ambitions, Gilbert said: 'Fillmore, I know that my life here
+will be short. I know that I have a work to do here on this farm, for
+the future benefit of my brothers and sisters in earth life. I know that
+in spirit life, Rita waits for me to join her, when that work is
+finished. I now realize that swiftly passing days, weeks, months and
+years, are precious portions of time which I must improve to the utmost.
+I know that this primary school of life has many useful lessons, which I
+must master as quickly as possible. I know that the sooner they are
+mastered, the sooner I shall be prepared to enter a higher class in
+spirit life. I know that as a spirit, in that land of golden sunlight,
+freed from the burden of this unsightly prison of flesh, I shall be
+clothed in a spiritual body as symmetrically perfect as my highest ideal
+can picture. I know that thus clothed, and crowned with the perpetual
+youth of the spirit; I shall again be united with my darling Rita, never
+more to part. Together, in obedience to the law of an infinite love, we
+shall go hand in hand, up the paths of wisdom which lead to the summits
+of the hills of everlasting progress. I know that during my sojourn
+here, when I am weary and most need the healing balm of her presence, my
+Rita can<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></span> come to cheer and help me. Knowing all this, life is full of
+promise! I have no time to be sad or lonely! The world is bright! I am
+ambitious to make its people my friends, by creating for them, better
+and brighter conditions for the enjoyment of life.'</p>
+
+<p>"This, my dear Fern! is the romance, which like some secret charm,
+Gilbert wears in his heart. His armor against all evil! The bright star
+of his ambition! The beacon light of his hope!"</p>
+
+<p>"The romance is indeed a most extraordinary one! The story is
+exquisitely beautiful! Its pathos fills my heart with both joy and
+sadness! In the development of his mediumship, following his
+bereavement, how like my own, has been his experience! This explains my
+sympathetic desire for his friendship. What a noble fellow he is! I
+shall be proud to claim him as my friend! Now Fillmore, you must tell me
+of his work for the farm. I am anxious to know more of the peculiar
+methods of this inspired genius."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well! In the center of the large garden at the rear of the Gerrish
+cottage, is a roomy workshop, built for Gilbert's sole use and
+occupancy. Alone in this shop, he has mapped out for himself such a
+course of study, experimental work, and industrial amusement, as might
+suit the fancy of his swiftly changing moods; or conform to the passing
+whims of his busy brain. To the combined interests of Solaris farm, he
+is intensely devoted. To keep a realistic picture of the farm always in
+his mind, he has drawn an immense map, large enough to completely cover
+the wall space on one side of the shop. He subdivided, colored and named
+the subdivisions on the map, after a bold, brilliant scheme of his own.
+The result is a matter of astonishment to all beholders. The map seems
+to possess some charm of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span> attraction, which no one can explain. On each
+subdivision from time to time, Gilbert has tacked cards filled with
+finely written notes, setting forth from his own standpoint, a history
+of the subdivision, its peculiarities, and capabilities of the different
+soils; character of crops and fertilizers, together with such
+suggestions for perfection or improvement, as his thorough knowledge of
+chemistry might determine; or his keen, analytical, observation of the
+crops produced, might indicate.</p>
+
+<p>"This map of itself, is a most valuable work; involving an immense
+amount of intelligent, skillful labor; also much study of chemistry, and
+of horticultural and agricultural authorities. As an indication of our
+appreciation of its value, this map has been taken as a suggestive model
+for the completion of those made and kept by the clerical force employed
+in the farm office.</p>
+
+<p>"On the south side of his shop, two large doors open into a roomy,
+glass-roofed hot house, containing a very unique collection of potted
+plants, which, under the skillful hands of this young enthusiast, are
+undergoing the different stages of experimental treatment, such as he
+may deem necessary, to prove or disprove his many pet theories or
+fancies, in regard to care, growth, insect enemies, and to application
+of electric light, sun light, heat, moisture and fertilizers. Each plant
+bears a fruitful crop of cards, giving a summary of results and
+conclusions. Each one of these cards may contain, in skeleton form, the
+subject matter of a brief essay, brimful of valuable suggestions and
+interesting statements. Sooner or later, these essays, signed
+'Experimenter,' are liable to find their way into the contribution box
+at the door of the Press Club.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span></p><p>"Gilbert's collection of birds and insects, forms another interesting
+feature of his industrial museum. These collections were made, arranged
+and classified, in order to afford opportunities for making a careful
+study of the insect enemies of his plants, and also to discover what
+birds were most destructive to the different insects. The birds he kept
+in cages; the insects in glass-covered boxes.</p>
+
+<p>"The care of these things, and the time and labor necessary to collect,
+classify and arrange them, would to most people, prove a grievous
+burden. To Gilbert, it was simply another mode of recreation and
+amusement. On the live insects, he tried the effects of such chemicals
+as might destroy them without injury to the growing plants. To his caged
+birds, Gilbert fed his bugs, worms and moths, carefully noting the kinds
+they most eagerly swallowed. His conclusions were always briefly written
+out. They proved a perfect mine of valuable information, to be used in
+perfecting better methods for farm culture.</p>
+
+<p>"Aside from this kind of work; in the departments of his shop devoted to
+experiments with clays, mica, soils, minerals and the various powers,
+attractions and affinities of electricity, his constructive ideation and
+inspired mentality, always gave him an excellent crop of good results.
+Altogether, such superior work, carried forward in his own unique way,
+has added many hundreds of dollars to the annual income of the farm. In
+the department of experimental farming, as I have before stated, his
+work has proved most brilliant and helpful; generally leading to the
+adoption of many improved methods for successfully selecting, planting
+and growing these new crops.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span></p><p>"Considered as a whole, such a variety of valuable contributions have
+convinced our people, that physically speaking, one of the farm's
+weakest units, under the fostering development of co-operative
+organization, is capable of becoming one of its most valued productive
+workers. The wonder of it all, is, that Gilbert is able to accomplish
+such important results, while following a scheme he has devised as a
+source of personal diversion!</p>
+
+<p>"Turning to Gilbert's intellectual, artistic and esthetic life, we
+discover that this gifted boy finds the same source of comfort and
+amusement in his devotion to the art of music. In this branch of
+accomplishments, you, my dear Fern! have had occasion to observe how
+important a factor he has become, in organized social life at Solaris.
+He is such a general favorite, that without an effort, he has been able
+to so impress the strong individuality of his noble character upon the
+minds of our farm people, that the effect for good has been truly wonderful!"</p>
+
+<p>"This is exceedingly interesting, Fillmore! How charmed I am with your
+completed story of this marvelously gifted boy! All that you have told
+me about Gilbert, only seems to confirm my previous convictions, that he
+is really one of the most astonishing products of Solaris farm! No
+wonder he is such a general favorite! He has nobly earned the title!
+With such intelligence and genius, possessed, embodied and expressed by
+its weaker units; is it any cause for wonder, that the success of
+Solaris as a co-operative colony, is so pronounced?"</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXX.</h2>
+
+<h3>OUR HERO AND HEROINE DISCUSS AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS.</h3>
+
+<p>On the day following the festival, we find Fillmore Flagg in the office
+of the farm, going over the books of the company with Fern Fenwick. To
+most women, such a task would soon prove unbearably monotonous and
+tiresome. However, she neither grew restless or inattentive. At all
+times on the alert to note each new point of interest; her questions on
+every subject indicated a remarkably intelligent conception of the
+general plan of the work. Finally, having satisfied herself that she
+understood the status of the farm well enough to enable her to propound
+her list of queries in the proper order, and in such a manner, as would
+most successfully bring to her the information she wished to obtain:
+with note-book in hand, she commenced by saying: "Now Fillmore, I am
+ready to take up my series of questions about Solaris, which you have
+kindly consented to answer. I promise in advance to be good; to try to
+refrain from untimely interruptions, by asking a host of irrelevant
+questions at inopportune moments!</p>
+
+<p>"First, I wish you would tell me just what is represented by the one
+thousand shares of capital stock, of the Solaris Farm Company?"</p>
+
+<p>"The corporation, as you know, is so limited," said Fillmore, "that the
+land cannot be sold, and the stock can only be sold to the Company;
+nevertheless, the original cost of the land is covered by the stock. The
+entire capitalization of $250,000, which I think will fairly represent
+the financial status of the farm<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span> at the end of the first five years, is
+divided as follows:</p>
+
+<table summary="financial status of the farm">
+  <tr>
+    <td class="left">Purchase price of land</td>
+    <td>$&nbsp;32,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="left">Improvements</td>
+    <td>68,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="left">Buildings</td>
+    <td>100,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td class="left">Live stock, equipment and machinery&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
+    <td>50,000</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td ></td>
+    <td>&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;</td>
+  </tr>
+  <tr>
+    <td></td>
+    <td>$250,000</td>
+  </tr>
+</table>
+
+<p>Of the last named item, about $25,000 is estimated for machinery.
+However, this amount does not fully represent its real value. In many
+instances, it only gives the actual cost of the raw material used in
+construction. This capitalization does not seem so large, when we
+consider the small individual holdings. Having a par value of $250 a
+share, we have only $500, in the two shares, for each one of the five
+hundred co-operators. I think it has been wisely determined by a
+majority vote, that as the resources of the farm continue to develop and
+mature, the increase of profits shall come to the individual stockholder
+in the shape of larger wages, instead of by dividends on stock. Although
+this is not a money-making institution, and was not so intended from the
+beginning; a fact properly emphasized by the foregoing. Yet, by the way
+of arriving at some estimate of its future value, I feel safe in
+predicting, that, if the stock should be offered in the markets of the
+world, and dividends declared in the usual way, twenty years hence,
+these certificates of stock would be worth $1,500 per share. In other
+words, would have doubled in value six times during that period."</p>
+
+<p>"Judging by what I already know of the farm and its resources," said
+Fern, "I quite agree with you in this view of the matter.</p>
+
+<p>"In considering the future needs of such a large<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span> number of
+co-operators, which in ten years may be increased by pensioners and
+children, to one thousand people; do you think this farm is large enough
+to meet the demand?"</p>
+
+<p>"For the purpose in view it is ample," said Fillmore. "Operated in
+connection with so many allied industries, I think a farm of 5,000 acres
+would be sufficient. That would be ten acres for each one. Here in
+Solaris, we have 12-8/10 acres of land for every adult member of the
+company. By carrying the process of intensive farming to a very high
+state of perfection; Prof. Grandeau, at Capelle, France, has actually
+demonstrated, that it is possible to grow 8&frac12; bushels of wheat&mdash;one
+man's bread food for the year&mdash;on one-twentieth part of an acre of land.
+Armed with so many advantages, with better conditions, superior methods,
+and more intelligent workers; I feel sure we can easily accomplish here,
+all that Grandeau has done in France, and more. Besides, you must
+remember, that we shall have the additional support of quite a large
+number of profitable industries, to help us in meeting the demands of an
+increased number of consumers."</p>
+
+<p>"That sounds logical and reasonable," said Fern. "I now remember, that
+while traveling in Europe with my father, gathering agricultural
+statistics: the Capelle experiments were brought to our attention at
+that time, as worthy of careful consideration. I am greatly pleased to
+know that you are already familiar with them. To continue the subject, I
+wish to say that I am much impressed with the outlook for intensive
+farming at Solaris. Aided by the wonderful power of applied co-operative
+thinking, combined with your careful and comprehensive system of
+book-keeping, which embraces every field and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span>department of the farm! I
+believe that ten years hence, you will be able to give to the world,
+some very valuable statistics on the whole subject of farming, both
+intensive and diversified.</p>
+
+<p>"I have noticed with an unusual degree of interest, the apparently
+lavish use of electric power in operating the factory works and farm
+machinery. I am really quite curious to know just how it is generated."</p>
+
+<p>"That is a very large question!" said Fillmore. "At different times
+since the commencement of our work, we have used three methods for
+generating electricity. First, the old fashioned steam dynamo. Second,
+the direct conversion of coal into electricity. Third, the gathering of
+great quantities of this subtle force from the atmosphere, through a
+certain vibratory action, set up by intense concentration of the sun's
+rays. As a result of a vast deal of co-operative thinking and careful
+experimentation; the last named process, has been so perfected and
+cheapened, as to entirely supersede the first two. The powerful
+batteries of Solaris concentrators, which you see around the
+power-house, and at various points on the farm, are important factors in
+this work. I confess, that I am rather proud of the remarkable success,
+which we have achieved in this line of invention. When I gave a title to
+the farm, I had a premonition, that solar heat and force would be so
+successfully harnessed to both industrial and agricultural work, that
+the suggestive name of Solaris, would soon become as famous, as it was
+fitting and well earned.</p>
+
+<p>"In applying this power to all kinds of farm and factory work, we have
+succeeded far beyond my most sanguine expectations. With a plant almost<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span>
+entirely built by our own co-operative labor, we are able to generate an
+abundance of cheap power, which can be easily and safely conducted to
+the most distant portions of the farm. This power is readily available
+at any desired point, and for all kinds of work; becoming the magic
+motor by which we operate trains of trolley cars, for handling grain,
+hay, corn and all heavy crops; great gang-plows, rollers, harrows,
+cultivators, planters, drills, reapers, threshers and motor wagons; all
+so perfectly constructed and so easily controlled; that with them a
+woman, fittingly dressed and gloved, protected from the heat of the sun
+by a canopy, comfortably seated on cushions and springs, may accomplish
+the roughest and heaviest kind of farm work, without fatigue or
+discomfort. In fact, our women soon find it the most delightfully,
+fascinating work on the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"In connection with such a powerful motor, a single person, operating
+one of these improved agricultural machines, can do an amount of work in
+six hours, which under the old system would require ten hours of severe
+toil by six men and twelve horses. Of course, such machinery can only be
+produced and operated by large co-operative farms like this; with a
+carefully chosen force of co-operators, who are thinkers as well as
+workers; who are intellectually, physically and socially prepared to
+invent and construct machines that are perfectly fitted to do this
+particular kind of work."</p>
+
+<p>"Really!" said Fern, "this is as interesting as it is remarkable! This
+sun-generated force, this magic motor, so perfectly adjusted to
+agricultural work, under the test of practical use; which has proved so
+easily controlled; together with the tireless host<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span> of wonder-working
+machines, which this force has called into being; is truly a marvel
+worthy of the twentieth century!</p>
+
+<p>"Tell me, Fillmore! Why is it that these things have not been done before?"</p>
+
+<p>"There are many reasons. I think I can give you the principal one. From
+a remote period of time, a large majority of the people of this planet
+have gained a living by following agricultural pursuits. Bowed down
+under the weight of severe toil, hopeless under the pressure of a
+belief, that labor was a curse which they might not seek to escape;
+confined by ignorance to a narrow sphere of action, which kept them from
+looking upward and outward; it is not strange, that so many passing
+generations of these people, should never once dream of adopting a
+series of progressive changes for the betterment of their condition.</p>
+
+<p>"Such people were incapable of understanding, that, in order to secure
+the best and most successful results from agricultural work, it requires
+a systematic application of the highest order of brain work: that this
+brain work, must inspire a harmonious collection of trained, muscular
+workers, operating under the most favorable conditions. By the way of a
+contrast, how helpless were the lives of these farmers! As a rule they
+worked under the most discouraging conditions, distrustful and envious,
+uneducated and narrow minded; how could they be prepared to comprehend
+that basic law of progress, which is embodied in the idea of unselfish co-operation?</p>
+
+<p>"For these reasons, co-operative thinking and co-operative farming, have
+not heretofore been successfully combined. Here and now, in the first
+decade<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span> of the twentieth century, a few unselfish souls, the advance
+guard of the coming army, responding to the pressure of progressive
+evolution, have risen to such intellectual heights as has enabled them
+to discover, that by the aid of a harmonious union of thought and labor,
+a collection of people, working the soil unselfishly together, can
+easily attain results which, the most brilliant individual effort, armed
+with the wealth of a millionaire, could never hope to accomplish.
+Inspired with this idea, the people of Solaris, as pioneers in the work,
+are striving earnestly to demonstrate the absolute success of
+co-operative farming."</p>
+
+<p>"What I have seen with my own eyes, I know as a verity!" said Fern,
+enthusiastically. "Therefore I feel like shouting in the ears of our
+people: Well done, good and faithful servants in the cause of progress!
+The victory is already won! It is yours!</p>
+
+<p>"Your explanation of the cause of the late coming of practical
+co-operation in agriculture, appeals to my mind, as a very clear one.
+That the ignorance and selfishness of the individual, has from the
+beginning, proved the real obstacle, is now quite plain to me.</p>
+
+<p>"However, returning to my list of questions. How is it, that the fields
+and cultivated grounds at Solaris, are so free from weeds?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" said Fillmore. "The answer to that question, is another argument
+in favor of co-operative farming. Weeds have always been counted by
+farmers, as among the worst of the pests which they have been obliged to
+contend with. Under the most adverse conditions, weeds will grow,
+flourish, and ripen an appalling quantity of seed; where all useful
+plants will languish and finally perish. To keep<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span> them down, is a task
+which requires a great deal of hard work. To destroy them, root and
+branch, is a problem which has occupied the minds of our people for the
+past thirty months. After much thoughtful work, we have reached a solution.</p>
+
+<p>"During the period of frost, from the first of December to the first of
+March, the weedy ground is thoroughly stirred several times. After each
+stirring, the ground is swept by a broad stream of concentrated
+heat-rays&mdash;both light and dark. These rays are generated by a number of
+batteries of Solaris mirrors, or great sun glasses. This operation soon
+warms the ground and causes the weeds to put forth a tender growth.
+After such a growth, a week of frosty weather kills it down. This
+process is repeated until the weeds are all gone. When the necessary
+frosts do not appear, or when the work is carried on during warmer
+weather, a scorching from the sun glasses, kills the weeds even more
+effectively than frost. In this way the cultivated ground on the farm,
+has been entirely freed from weeds. As a result, the yield of crops has
+been largely increased, while the labor of cultivation has been
+correspondingly reduced. That back-aching work of hoeing, has been
+almost entirely dispensed with. Machine culture does the work.</p>
+
+<p>"The great advantage gained by cropping soil free from weeds, is most
+apparent in case of wheat culture. In such soils, the wheat can be
+deeply sown by the drill, beyond the reach of predatory birds. This
+develops a strong root-growth in the young plant, which as a consequence
+requires more space. To meet this demand, care is taken to have the
+drill-rows made one foot apart&mdash;running north and south. These wide rows
+allow free access of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span> air and sunlight to the soil, which may then be
+cultivated. Under the old system this space would be full of weeds;
+therefore impracticable. This gives the young wheat a chance to spread
+out, to send up from twenty to forty stout stems from the root-system of
+a single grain of seed. The growing stems become more sturdy, bear
+larger heads, heads with more and larger kernels, of heavier, brighter
+wheat. With this culture, the yield is increased one-third&mdash;many times
+one-half&mdash;and the quality wonderfully improved. Fully one-half of the
+usual quantity of seed is saved.</p>
+
+<p>"By repeating this method for a few years, carefully choosing the seed
+for each planting from the best kernels borne by the largest heads, the
+ordinary wheat-crop, without extra fertilization, may easily be doubled
+two and one-half times; while the quality of the entire crop is raised
+to the grade of extra fine, which will readily sell at fancy prices for
+seed wheat. The net gain, is a large cash balance in favor of
+cultivating a weedless soil. What is true of wheat culture in such
+soils, is true in a large measure with most other crops; more especially
+with corn, cotton and all kinds of garden crops."</p>
+
+<p>"Stop a moment, Fillmore!</p>
+
+<p>"Did I understand you to say that these immense discs, these mammoth,
+weed-scorching mirrors, were made here at Solaris? How can such
+expensive things be made, for a price that would allow so many to be used?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, these concentrating mirrors and burning glasses combined, are the
+product of the inventive genius and skillful work of our people. A
+combination of brain and muscular work so successful, that these discs,
+although they are of such great size and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span> weight, are quickly and
+cheaply made from thick plates of flat glass, which we manufacture from
+our abundant supply of excellent sand! The quality of the glass in these
+plates is of the best; clear, soft, and tough, just the kind that will
+most readily take the proper concave and convex surfaces, when treated
+by the evenly applied heat of swiftly revolving electric brushes. With
+plenty of strong machinery to handle these heavy plates, a few skilled
+workers, can with ease, soon transform them into perfect, lense-shaped
+discs. Similar discs, made by the slow, tedious process of nineteenth
+century methods, would cost many thousands of dollars for each one."</p>
+
+<p>"You have answered my question both briefly and perfectly! I recognize
+in these great mirrors, a swift, wonder-working agency, that shall make
+possible a new system of farming; which means, in the improved
+conditions for mankind that must follow, a revolution in social methods,
+calculated to bring them quickly into harmony with a rate of progress
+demanded by the twentieth century.</p>
+
+<p>"I will take up another question. It is in connection with the large
+amount of cultivated ground devoted to vegetables. How do you manage to
+make it profitable to grow such a quantity of perishable things?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is another important question, which will require an answer so
+lengthy, that perhaps you may grow weary before I have finished.
+However, I will try to be brief. During the past year, we have taken
+from the ground devoted to vegetable growing, more than 100,000 bushels
+of cabbage, cauliflower, onions, beets, mangel-wurzel, carrots,
+parsnips, salsify, potatoes, sweet-potatoes, cassava, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span>turnips, kohlrabi
+and artichokes. The best part of the story is, that this heavy crop has
+proved profitable, to a degree far beyond our expectations! As a rule,
+this class of vegetables, so heavy and so perishable, cannot be
+profitably grown in large quantities, except in locations near a large
+market town. This advantage, Solaris does not possess. To overcome this
+difficulty, was an additional task, which must be conquered, by the
+allied forces of co-operative thinking and co-operative working. In the
+solution of this puzzling question which was finally reached, the great
+mirrors and burning glasses of the Solaris concentrators, were again
+called upon to play an important part.</p>
+
+<p>"The first necessity, was to reduce the weight of the vegetables, and at
+the same time, to arrest all tendency to decay. The second was to
+protect them from the attack of insects, by placing them in neat,
+strong, insect-proof packages.</p>
+
+<p>"A large curing establishment was built and equipped with machinery;
+most of which was made at Solaris, from especially devised patterns.
+Convenient trolley lines, connected the curing-house with the fields.
+The vegetables, crisp and fresh from the ground, were quickly brought to
+the washing machines, on trains of cars laden with shallow trays, which
+permitted them to be swiftly handled without bruising. In these
+machines, they were thoroughly cleansed, scraped, and freed from tops,
+rootlets and imperfections. This process complete, they were placed in
+trays on traveling carriers, which delivered them to the dicing
+machines. In the dicing machines, they were soon reduced to inch-cubes.</p>
+
+<p>"In passing from these machines, the cubes fell<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span> on traveling screens of
+fine wire, which formed the first of a long series of drying rollers.
+The drying rollers, on the way to the packing rooms in the large
+store-house, passed through a long system of sheet-iron conduits, which
+were well heated by the concentrated rays of the sun from the mirrors
+and sunglasses. So well did the drying rollers do their work, that by
+the time the cubes had reached the store-house, and were delivered by
+the elevators into the storing-bins in the packing house, they were
+reduced to a dry, hard kernel. They had lost three-fourths in bulk, and
+about the same proportion in weight.</p>
+
+<p>"The funnel-shaped bottoms to the storing-bins were so arranged as to be
+above the long rows of packing tables. A series of graduated spouts,
+delivered the cured vegetables to the packers, who, standing or sitting
+as they might prefer, could, with but little effort and much speed, fill
+the prepared boxes with the little cubes.</p>
+
+<p>"These boxes, of a uniform size and shape, were made from thick layers
+of heavy straw-paper, made stiff and firm under high pressure. The farm
+in manufacturing them, was able to utilize large quantities of surplus
+straw from the grain fields, which could not be used as forage. In the
+corners of the boxes, between layers of paper, while they were being
+molded into shape, were inserted small, triangular pieces of wood. These
+bevel-shaped strips were cut six inches in length, just the depth of the
+boxes, in which they served as upright cornerposts. The shallow covers
+fitted each box with a telescope joint.</p>
+
+<p>"In the process of box-making, the layers of paper were saturated with a
+chemical, germicide <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span>solution, which made the boxes insect-proof; yet,
+which would not odorize, nor in any way injure the contents. In the
+process of packing, each box and cover was lined with thin sheets of
+parafine paper, as an additional guard against moisture. When the boxes
+were filled and sealed, they were strongly coopered, by adding four thin
+laths of strong wood. These laths, one-eighth of an inch thick, two
+inches wide, and just the length of the box; two at the bottom, and two
+at the top, were securely nailed to the cornerposts; thus completing a
+package which was cheap, strong, light, durable, rodent and
+insect-proof. With a capacity of a half-bushel, it weighed only five
+pounds. Filled with cubes, the gross weight was but thirty-five pounds.
+An ideal package, which could be piled high in transportation or
+store-house without injury; the upright cornerposts taking all the pressure.</p>
+
+<p>"The half-bushel or thirty pounds of dried cubes in each box, represent
+two bushels of fresh vegetables. Cured and packed in this way, they
+reach distant markets, sound, sweet, clean and nutritious. No waste, no
+worms, no musty smell, no decay! Frost cannot hurt them, heat preserves
+them! For long voyages, army and navy use, mining, lumbering, and
+hunting outfits, they are simply invaluable! For all classes of
+consumers, they are cheaper, cleaner and more wholesome than the
+ordinary stale and wilted vegetables, for sale in the city markets! We
+have named these cubes, 'Solaris Vegetable Concentrates,' a title which
+we have copyrighted. The packages readily wholesale at 75 cents, to be
+retailed at one dollar. At these prices, they yield a handsome profit to the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"Last year we placed hundreds of sample <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span>packages on the general market,
+which soon proved the excellence of the goods, and later brought heavy
+orders for this year; even more than we can fill, for many of the
+varieties. A valuable hint to us, that we must devote more ground to
+growing those particular kinds.</p>
+
+<p>"Our 'Solaris Mixture Concentrates' are almost equally popular. We also
+have a growing demand for our 'Solaris Stock Food,' which we put in
+cheaper packages, to wholesale and retail at 50 and 75 cents. This
+mixture is made up of equal proportions of dried cubes of potatoes,
+carrots, cassava, and mangel-wurzel. It has proved the acme of a
+healthful, fattening stock-food; especially beneficial in counteracting
+the evil effects of heavy grain-feeding; or in cases of emergency, to
+take the place of forage or cut-straw food.</p>
+
+<p>"In a weedless soil, much of the heavy labor of growing vegetables is
+eliminated. In curing and preparing them for market in this way, a great
+amount of light, pleasant work, is available for our women co-operators.
+Considered as a whole, this vegetable scheme is one of the notable
+achievements of Solaris farm, of which the members of the company are justly proud."</p>
+
+<p>"This is surely a most excellent work! It is a clear demonstration of
+what important results may be attained, by the application of thinking
+to agricultural work. In this instance, the lesson of your brilliant
+success, impresses my mind as a most convincing argument in favor of
+co-operative farming. I feel sure that it will appeal to the multitude
+with the same force. It is but another illustration of the old saying,
+'Nothing succeeds like success!' A few such examples will serve to
+overthrow the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span>prejudices of a thousand years! They will win for you a
+host of followers in the cause of co-operative farming.</p>
+
+<p>"Now Fillmore, let us consider another matter. At the time we made our
+tour of inspection, my attention was attracted to groups of oddly
+constructed barns, scattered here and there about the farm. What are
+these buildings, and for what purpose are they used?"</p>
+
+<p>"Those are curing-barns. They mark another wide departure from the usual
+methods of ordinary farming. For many years it has been a ruinously,
+wasteful custom with farmers, to allow their crops of corn, grain and
+hay, to stand in the fields while curing. All, subject meanwhile to the
+destructive effects of storms, dews and all kinds of adverse weather,
+which as a rule, destroyed much of the crop, and reduced the remainder
+to the condition of an inferior grade.</p>
+
+<p>"By the use of these barns, we are able to inaugurate an entirely
+different system, which succeeds admirably. These barns, located near
+the grain fields, are constructed with strong frames. They are both tall
+and wide, and so anchored to their foundations as not to be overthrown
+by high winds. Each roof is supplied with a series of latticed
+ventilators. In building the side walls, every alternate ten feet, was
+left open from ground to roof. These open spaces were fitted with roller
+screens of jointed, wooden slats, operated by weights and springs, which
+allowed the interior to be well lighted and thoroughly ventilated. These
+screens could all be raised or lowered at pleasure. While the barns were
+being filled, they were all open.</p>
+
+<p>"As the fields of grain commenced to ripen, while<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span> the straw was still
+green and full of sap, and the swollen kernels were just passing out of
+the dough stage of maturing; with the aid of a large force of workers,
+operating improved machinery, entire fields of standing grain at just
+precisely the proper stage of maturity, could be transferred to the
+shelter of these barns in a single day. As the heavy green bundles of
+grain were delivered from the fields, to the adjustable elevators
+working through the open spaces of the barns, from either side, these
+bundles were carried to the hands of the rick-builders, who piled them
+into narrow ricks five feet in width, across the barn and up to the
+roof. As the ricks grew in height, strong wire screens were hooked to
+the dividing posts which marked the boundaries of the ricks. These
+screens kept the bundles in place, and the ricks securely upright. When
+the barns were filled in this way, the ricks were separated by four feet
+of open space, with a ventilator in the roof for each pair of ricks and spaces.</p>
+
+<p>"When the grain crops were thus housed without waste from shelling, the
+curing process went forward swiftly and securely. The advantages gained,
+were many. The wheat straw, full of sap when harvested, in curing
+slowly, kept the plump kernels of grain from shrinking, while it left
+them with clear, smooth, thin skins, and a quality, which produced less
+bran and more gluten, in the flour they would yield when ground. The
+kernels were all more uniform in size, larger, firmer and fairer; would
+all grade as number one. No sprouted wheat! No must! No blight! No rust!</p>
+
+<p>"This was also true of oats and barley. The straw came from the improved
+threshers, in straight, compact bundles, thoroughly freed from grain,
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span>fragrant and bright, almost as nutritious for forage as hay. In fact,
+this straw, in such excellent shape for cutting, feeding, storing, or
+transportation, possessed more than twice the selling value of the best
+of ordinary straw. The oat straw, being softer and more pliable, was
+still more valuable as forage. The barley straw, less desirable for
+stock food, was sent to the paper mill for the use of the box factory.
+By this method of harvesting and curing grain, the increase in quality
+and selling value, was largely augmented. The general result was a
+marked saving of grain, time, labor and money.</p>
+
+<p>"In cutting and curing the hay crops, the same kind of barns were used.
+The loosely packed hay in the tall, thin ricks, was soon dry enough to
+bale, and then be transferred to the storing barns; leaving room for the
+corn crop which was to follow. Hay cured in this way is superior to
+anything on the market, and always brings tip-top prices!</p>
+
+<p>"In curing corn, more time and wider ricks are necessary. The corn could
+be cut earlier, thus leaving the ground free to be prepared for the
+succeeding crop of fall wheat or late vegetables. During stormy weather,
+after this slower curing process was complete, a jolly army of huskers
+invaded the barns. The ripe corn, free from husk, was carefully assorted
+and stored in the ventilated bins prepared for it. The selected husks
+were packed and baled, ready for market. The stalks were stripped and
+topped by a clever machine. The excellent forage thus accumulated, was
+baled and stored. The pith in the large part of the stalk, was then
+extracted by another machine. These piths were then treated to a
+water-proofing process, sent to a shop on the farm, and made up into
+life preservers. Both life<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span> preservers and life rafts, made from pith
+treated in this way, proved lighter, cheaper, and more buoyant than
+those made from cork. This, you will observe is another profitable
+industry, added to the financial resources of Solaris. It is also an
+addition to the fitting employments for women.</p>
+
+<p>"A still more desirable employment for our women co-operators, was found
+at the grain mill, where wheat, oats, and barley were transformed into
+popular brands of 'Solaris Breakfast Food.' Thus prepared, the market
+value of a bushel of grain was increased four fold.</p>
+
+<p>"A new food preparation, from a mixture of pop-corn with equal parts of
+thoroughly ground, roasted sweet corn, is really an excellent article of
+diet. In small, neat packages, this healthy and attractive food can be
+sold at a large profit.</p>
+
+<p>"All of these sources of profit, naturally grow out of the new methods
+of harvesting and housing grain, which is made possible by the curing
+barns. While in appearance, these barns may not prove attractive, yet, I
+think you will readily acknowledge that they are very useful buildings;
+buildings which Solaris could not well do without."</p>
+
+<p>"Really! Fillmore, I think these buildings are very fine! More than
+that, they are wonderfully well adapted to the purpose for which they
+were constructed! In this respect they certainly excel in usefulness,
+all other classes of barns. In your description of them, and of the new
+methods in harvesting; I have been as much interested and entertained as
+though you were relating some fascinating romance. Indeed, I have been
+so absorbed, that I fear my poor note-book has been sadly neglected!</p>
+
+<p>"How much land do you devote to cotton growing?<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span> How has co-operative
+methods, affected its culture as a paying crop?"</p>
+
+<p>"Last year, we planted twelve hundred acres in cotton. By the use of
+choice seed, a weedless soil, improved methods in the destruction of
+insect enemies, a better selection of fibre-producing fertilizers, a
+less wasteful plan of planting, and a more careful culture, we have
+increased the yield per acre from 300 to 500, and in a few instances to
+550 pounds. When the crop was picked and ginned, we had twelve hundred
+bales of fine cotton. The quality of the fibre in the whole lot, was so
+excellent and so uniformly well ripened, that we were offered two cents
+per pound above the ruling price of ordinary cotton. As a result, this
+one crop gave the farm a cash income of $65,000. $60,000 for the fibre,
+and $5,000 for the seed, oil and oil cake. Choice seed for planting, was
+a large item in the last named amount.</p>
+
+<p>"Heretofore, the great difficulty experienced by single farmers in
+growing large crops of cotton, has arisen from the want of sufficient
+help during the picking season. At Solaris, we always have an abundance
+of help. If the needs of the work seem to demand it, we can put two
+six-hour reliefs of pickers into the field each day, with 200 pickers in
+each relief. By working such a force, a large crop can soon be gathered
+without waste or damage. The pickers, all receiving the same daily
+wages, have a pocket interest in saving the cotton, therefore clean,
+careful picking, with a view of preserving a high grade of fibre, soon
+becomes the rule. This is an important matter, as green, immature fibre
+is worthless for the purpose of making a strong, durable thread or
+fabric; therefore pickers must be sufficiently intelligent, to
+understand why they should<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a></span> select only the thoroughly ripened cotton.</p>
+
+<p>"Care is taken to make the pickers as comfortable as possible. For this
+purpose, broad, movable awnings, are provided to protect them from sun
+and showers. Under such circumstances, the picking season becomes one of
+fun and frolic, to which our co-operators, look forward with rejoicing.
+Six hours in each day spent in such light, pleasant work, is hardly
+regarded as toil. Yet, the amount of cotton picked by each individual,
+measured by the number of hours employed, is fully up to the standard
+set by good pickers, under the old system of long hours. The
+nimble-fingered women easily bear off the palm, as the expert pickers.
+If they were paid by the pound, their earnings would be greater than
+those of the men. Judged by such practical work, women cannot much
+longer be classed with the weaker units of an agricultural colony!"</p>
+
+<p>"I consider that, as a very important point, well stated! But pardon me
+Fillmore, for the question! You spoke of better methods for the
+destruction of insect enemies. What are those insects, and how did you
+manage to destroy them?"</p>
+
+<p>"Those that proved the most troublesome, were the cut-worm and
+boll-worm. Both were hatched from the eggs laid by certain kinds of
+moths. During the nights of the egg-laying season, for these moths, they
+were easily trapped and destroyed. By the use of a large number of
+electric light traps, suspended from convenient wires, thousands of
+these insects were lured to destruction before they could deposit their
+eggs. We are encouraged to believe, that a few years of such wholesale
+extermination, will soon rid us of these pests altogether.</p>
+
+<p>"With a view of securing a continuous <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span>improvement in the quality of the
+cotton, we propose during the next five years, to carefully select the
+seed for each successive planting, from the largest, most prolific
+stalks, that produce the finest fibre. Reasoning from past experience, I
+think it will not be difficult to obtain a yield at least one-third
+greater than that of last year; which, on account of extra-superior
+quality, will readily sell for a still higher price. A careful reading
+of the annual reports, made by our consuls, who are stationed at the
+principal commercial ports of the world, has taught us, that to sell
+well, American cotton must be baled to meet the requirements of foreign
+markets. These markets demand that we must use a finer, better quality
+of baling burlaps, that will enable us to make closer, stronger,
+smoother packages, such as will at once impress the prospective buyer
+with the fact that they are really fine, because in appearance they are
+so tight, tidy, and attractive. To secure this, a small additional
+expense for baling material, is money well spent.</p>
+
+<p>"Considering cotton as a cash crop, our experience so far, proves it to
+be especially adapted to the needs and methods of co-operative farming.
+A single crop has put money enough into our treasury, to pay more than
+double the purchase price of this farm."</p>
+
+<p>"From your very clear and comprehensive answers to my questions, it
+appears that a co-operative farm, by reason of the number and
+organization of its workers, is equipped to carry on the culture of
+cotton with more than ordinary profit. This I accept as being absolutely
+true! Therefore I hail your success as a revelation of new
+possibilities, which must surely follow in the near future!"</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXI.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE DISCUSSION GROWS MORE INTERESTING.</h3>
+
+<p>"Now Fillmore," said Fern, "I wish to ask, what have you been doing in
+the department of experimental farming?"</p>
+
+<p>"Much of the work in that department is still in such a preliminary
+stage, that definite results cannot yet be declared. However, among the
+experiments worthy of mention, are the fields containing the various
+kinds of true sugar cane, and of sorghum or Chinese sugar cane.</p>
+
+<p>"By hybridizing and other methods, we are striving to increase the
+hardiness of the former and the crystallizing-sugar product of the
+latter. By the results already obtained we are encouraged to believe,
+that five years hence, we shall have produced a sugar-cane equal to the
+best, that may be grown with much profit, as far north as St. Louis.</p>
+
+<p>"Small plots of ground have also been devoted to growing tea, peppers,
+sage, hops, ginseng and other medicinal plants, with such excellent
+results, that no doubt they will soon develop into profitable ventures.</p>
+
+<p>"The ten acres planted to broom-corn, have produced the necessary
+material with which to keep the workers in the broom and brush factory
+profitably employed.</p>
+
+<p>"In the line of fibre plants, other than the cotton crop before
+mentioned; we have grown enough hemp and flax, to supply the needs of
+our rope and twine works. In 'bromelia fibrista,' a new fibre plant, we
+find a product that bids fair to rival silk<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span> in producing a fabric of
+fine, smooth, beautiful texture.</p>
+
+<p>"In addition to the foregoing, several swampy plots have been planted to
+willow, and as a consequence, a growing basket-weaving industry has been developed.</p>
+
+<p>"At the very beginning of our work here, while I was preparing to stock
+the seed beds in the nursery, one of our co-operators, a very
+intelligent and observing young man, who had been railroading in Mexico
+for two years previous to his joining our colony, called my attention to
+the Mexican quince. So strongly did he assert his belief that the fruit
+would thrive at Solaris, that I soon became a convert to his enthusiasm.
+With the young man for a guide, two weeks later we were on the way to
+Mexico; returning shortly, with enough three-year-old nursery stock, to
+plant one hundred acres. In addition, we secured the seed for 500,000
+young plants. Since that time, our plantation of quince bushes has grown finely.</p>
+
+<p>"Last year we gathered the first crop. Not a large one&mdash;perhaps, from
+fifteen to twenty-five quinces from each clump of bushes. As the fruit
+was large and the bushes thickly planted, the yield was about one
+hundred crates to the acre. An aggregate of ten thousand crates for the
+entire crop. We have every reason to believe, that the crop this year
+will be double that amount.</p>
+
+<p>"Owing to the fact that this quince thrives best on the elevated table
+lands of Mexico, where it is subject to periods of cold and frost of
+considerable length; it has readily adjusted itself to this location and
+climate. We are now able to pronounce it, a complete success! It is a
+magnificent fruit!<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span> Much superior in size, color, flavor and fragrance,
+to our own domestic quince. In keeping qualities and a firmness of flesh
+that will bear long distance transportation without injury, it is fully
+equal to the northern quince. In a deep-toned richness of color,
+perfection of shape and smoothness of skin, these peerless quinces are
+veritable apples of gold! They are pictures of beauty which sell at
+sight! The flavor is so fine, that Mexicans eat them with as much relish
+as the people of New York eat apples. Dried, these quinces are delicious!</p>
+
+<p>"In Mexico, large quantities are annually reduced to a soft mass of
+pulp, spread out in thin layers, and dried into sheets of what is termed
+quince-leather. Armed with a generous roll of this excellent
+preparation, the traveler in the desert countries of hot, dry climates,
+may bid defiance to thirst. With such a wealth of recommendations, we
+were able to sell our first crop of quinces at a net price of two
+dollars per crate; or $20,000 in cash. Hereafter we shall save the
+commissions, as we have already received advance orders for our next
+crop, at $2.25 per crate, delivered on board the cars here at Solaris.
+Next year, we propose to enlarge our quince orchard by adding another
+hundred acres. Taking all these items into consideration, I think we
+have good reason to be proud of our first attempt at experimental
+farming in the line of quince culture!</p>
+
+<p>"I have two additional experiments to describe. They are the last on my list.</p>
+
+<p>"While in Mexico securing the quince plants, I found what to me was a
+new variety of table grapes. They were marked by the following
+characteristics. Large clusters, berry large oblong, thin skin, few
+seeds, fine sweet pulp, delicious bouquet, color when<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span> ripe, a pale
+amber green; ripens about the first of July. As we found these grapes
+growing on the high table lands, I determined to try them at Solaris. By
+the dint of hard work, I procured enough young vines to set fifty acres.
+From those vines, we have rooted enough cuttings in the nursery, to give
+us 100,000 young vines, which have now reached the proper size for
+setting in the vineyard. This fine grape we have named 'Solaris Early.'</p>
+
+<p>"Last July we gathered our first crop&mdash;5000 ten-pound baskets, which we
+readily sold at the fancy wholesale price of one dollar per basket. In
+packing them for the market we carefully reject small, poor bunches. The
+bunches selected are freed from all bruised berries. The stems of the
+bunches are then dipped in melted wax. After this treatment they are
+packed in layers of finely cut, soft chaff, made from clean, bright,
+fragrant oat straw. The chaff serves to keep the berries and clusters
+well apart, and also to keep out the air, which otherwise would soon
+wilt the fruit. Packed in this way the grapes reach distant markets in
+perfect condition. In fact, they are the only good table grapes on the
+market at that season; therefore in choice lots they will always command
+fancy prices. The experiment with them has proved so successful that
+next season, we shall increase the size of the vineyard to two hundred acres.</p>
+
+<p>"By way of a commencement in small fruit culture, we have fifty acres of
+ground, devoted to growing a great variety of berries. They require the
+work of a large number of hands during the picking season. Owing to the
+perishable nature of such small fruits, we do not attempt to market them
+fresh, but make them into jellies, jams, marmalades, and preserves.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span>
+These we pack in glass jars, of the various sizes demanded by the
+wholesale and retail trade. In preparing and packing these goods, we use
+only the best of everything. This is in line with our purpose to
+establish a reputation of a high degree of excellence, for each article
+put on the market under a Solaris label. By a rigid observance of this
+rule, we manage to sell the products of our berry crops at a good profit.</p>
+
+<p>"When the farm books are balanced at the end of the year, we are
+encouraged to find that the fifty acres of berries, has a larger credit
+than any other fifty acres on the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"In the line of an extension of this kind of farming, we are now
+preparing for next year, with the purpose of starting a factory for
+canning our output of sweet corn, green peas, beans, asparagus,
+tomatoes, peaches, plums and pears. This completes my list of items
+under the head of experimental farming, which Solaris now has to offer.
+What do you think of it so far?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think very well of it indeed! I am especially impressed with the
+Mexican quinces, early grapes, and the berries. They seem to promise the
+greatest success, and the largest financial returns. Taken altogether, I
+think the outlook for experimental farming at Solaris, is very bright!</p>
+
+<p>"Now, by the way of recapitulation, can you give to me, a brief
+statement of the crops grown last year; with an approximate one, of the
+cash derived therefrom?"</p>
+
+<p>"That will not be difficult. I will endeavor to make my statement as
+brief as possible.</p>
+
+<p>"By looking at this map, you will observe that during the season just
+past, we have cultivated<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span> about 4,000 acres of land. The crops planted,
+were nearly as follows: 1,200 acres to cotton; 1,000 acres to wheat;
+1,100 acres divided between corn, oats, barley and hay; 150 acres to
+vegetables, and 550 acres to a miscellaneous variety of crops, such as
+the nursery, the quince orchard, the vineyard, the berries, the gardens,
+and all ground devoted to experimental culture.</p>
+
+<p>"The aggregate cash income derived from these crops, which found a
+market in the outside world, in addition to those sold to our own
+people, amounted in round numbers to $193,000. Of this amount, $95,000
+came from sales of cotton and wheat. Next year we have good reason to
+expect a cash income of $250,000 from our farm products alone. Last year
+we realized $57,000 from the sale of our manufactured products; such as
+brick, terracotta, drain pipes, tiles, earthen ware, furniture, brooms,
+willow ware, and the output of several other minor industries. This
+brought the total income of the farm for the year, up to $250,000.</p>
+
+<p>"You ask what disposition has been made of this money? $50,000 has been
+expended in additional improvements, machinery, buildings, and live
+stock for the farm. $25,000 more, has been added to the stock in our
+store, which now has a supply of goods, sufficient to meet the demands
+of adjacent settlers who wish to trade with us. $25,000 is held in our
+treasury, for use in any emergency which may arise. The remaining
+$150,000, has been placed in the sinking-fund.</p>
+
+<p>"Our farm-store, has proved a very important institution. The clothing,
+tailoring, dressmaking and millinery departments, have proved
+surprisingly successful; with a constantly increasing demand for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span> the
+goods turned out. This opens a wide field of remunerative labor, for our
+women co-operators.</p>
+
+<p>"The 2,400 acres of untilled lands, are now utilized as follows: 500
+acres are covered by a fairly good native forest; 500 more, by the
+scattered timber around the stone quarries, gravel beds, sand pits, clay
+deposits and the various other mines. 400 acres are used for pasture,
+100 acres belong to the village site. 200 acres are planted to apple
+trees; 25 acres to pear; 25 acres to peach; and 200 acres to nut-bearing
+trees. 100 acres are now being prepared for the addition to the quince
+orchard. Another 100 acres for the vineyard. The remaining 250 acres,
+for other desirable varieties of fruit.</p>
+
+<p>"Of the 100 acres set apart for the village site, only forty, are at
+present occupied by the streets in use, the buildings, and the public
+square. The remaining sixty acres, are laid out with walks, drives,
+lawns, oval, circular, and star-shaped plots. The latter, are filled
+with choice roses and flowers. The ovals and circles, are thickly
+planted with fruit trees and ornamental shrubbery. The fruits, such as
+cherries, plums, peaches, pears and figs, have all been the result of
+experimental potting and planting by the school children. The same is
+true in a large measure, of the rose gardens and the shrubbery.</p>
+
+<p>"The effect of this amusing work on the children, is most excellent. A
+taste for the beautiful becomes permanent, while they acquire a fund of
+useful knowledge about the care and culture of trees, and also how to
+enjoy themselves in the conscious zeal of pushing forward some useful
+employment; which will make them stronger, healthier and happier. With
+the advent of spring, comes a wealth of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span> bloom to reward their toil&mdash;a
+paradise of beauty and fragrance; everywhere, clouds of pink sprays and
+snowy petals charm the sight.</p>
+
+<p>"This last item, like a long, ornamental flourish, must conclude my
+summing up of the distribution of crops, the division of forest, pasture
+and fruit lands, over the whole farm; with its complete chain of
+financial resources, and its outlook for the coming season. I hope I
+have not made my recapitulation too lengthy! Also, that I have succeeded
+in answering your questions satisfactorily."</p>
+
+<p>"Your summing up has shown surprising results! The magnitude of the cash
+income, is really a crown of triumph for co-operative farming! I
+congratulate you, and the people of Solaris, most heartily! In justice
+to the able answers to my questions, I must say that many times you have
+answered, even before I could frame them into words. With each
+succeeding reply, my wonder and delight has increased. I have discovered
+many new possibilities, in pleasant, productive and profitable methods
+for farm work, of which I have never before dreamed. Now that you have
+made them plain to me in such a charming manner; I am beginning to
+understand how it is, that Solaris can produce such quantities of
+marketable goods, that can so easily be turned into cash. I have yet a
+number of important questions remaining unanswered, but they do not
+pertain to growing crops."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXII.</h2>
+
+<h3>SOCIAL SOLUTIONS.</h3>
+
+<p>"I now wish," said Fern, "to consider the social and domestic interests
+of the colony. How do you manage to keep up the necessary degree of
+cleanliness, demanded by perfect sanitation in the living rooms of the
+co-operators, without seriously disturbing the privacy of the family."</p>
+
+<p>"That is a delicate matter, which by choice of the co-operators
+themselves, easily adjusts itself to the requirements of the committee
+members, who are chosen to take charge of the tri-weekly scrubbing and
+sweeping. The detail for this work for each week, is made by the
+assignment committee.</p>
+
+<p>"They select from a class of workers, known as both skillful and
+trustworthy. All rooms which the occupants desire to have cleaned, are
+left open. All rooms that are found locked, are reported to the chairman
+of the committee, whose duty it is to inspect them at a later period,
+while the occupants are present. It is a matter which is well understood
+by the members of the company, that rooms not accessible to the regular
+cleaning force, must be kept sweet and tidy by the occupants themselves,
+during hours which might be otherwise devoted to rest, amusement or study.</p>
+
+<p>"Under the pressure of such conditions, even the most exclusive, soon
+voluntarily open all their rooms to the authorized force. Causes for
+complaint against any member of the sanitary, inspection or assignment
+committee, are corrected by the voters at monthly elections, held for
+the purpose of <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span>selecting new committees. This system so appeals to that
+innate sense of justice and harmony reigning in the hearts of our
+people, that after a few months of experience, they are ready to
+co-operate heartily in any sort of discipline which may be necessary to
+secure the welfare of the entire colony.</p>
+
+<p>"The peculiar charm of colony-life appeals to them so strongly, that to
+be voted out of the organization on account of violation of rules, or of
+any improper conduct, is universally considered as a most dreadful
+calamity. The possibility of such a fate, like some hidden spectre, acts
+as a restraining influence, which holds in check the most lawless,
+stubborn, or self-opinionated. It soon makes them zealous, peace-loving
+and obedient. Having once tasted the sweets of the co-operative system,
+they have a wholesome dread of being obliged to return to the cruel
+bitterness of the old competitive system!</p>
+
+<p>"Among the most potent charms which have proved so attractive to Solaris
+workers, is the condition of health, comfort and beauty, which surrounds
+the laborer in every department of the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"In store, work-shop, seed-room, dairy, mill, factory or packing-house,
+the rooms are large, the light is abundant, ventilation perfect,
+ceilings high; while both walls and ceilings are so beautifully and
+artistically decorated, that love for the beautiful in the esthetic
+nature, swells and grows to be a dominant passion. This passion soon
+takes hold of both heart and brain, becoming the foundation of a
+character-building-work of high order. Thus happily environed, our
+people feast their eyes and merrily sing away the hours, which are
+devoted to tasks they have learned to love. The tendency of these
+things, is ever toward the good, the right, the pure<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a></span> and true! Under
+such conditions, the demon of discontent, evil thinking and evil doing,
+cannot thrive! His power wanes, he flies to the more congenial
+surroundings which mark the dingy, ill smelling, overcrowded work-shops
+of the competitive system!</p>
+
+<p>"No wonder, when away from Solaris, our people are so anxious to return!
+They come back convinced, that they have fortunately escaped from the
+thralldom of a debasing, cruel system. A system which&mdash;utterly ignoring
+the sacredness of human life&mdash;in a frenzy of selfish greed, has, so far
+as the toilers of the world are concerned, turned the triumphs of modern
+civilization into the mockery of a bitter curse! As affecting
+themselves, our people perceive that, under the protecting mantle of
+financial conditions which prevail here at Solaris, they, as members of
+the company, are sure to secure every benefit, profit or advantage, that
+may flow from the use of the best and most expensive kinds of
+labor-saving machinery. Once aware of all the facts, thereafter, they
+cannot under any circumstances, be induced to return to employment under the old system.</p>
+
+<p>"The advantage in favor of co-operative work is so great, that among our
+women co-operators, there is a general desire to have it utilized to the
+utmost; especially in all kinds of housework. The introduction of such a
+wholesale system of house-cleaning, soon demands a better class of
+sweepers, to take the place of the housewife's broom and dust pan.</p>
+
+<p>"Large suction sweepers, worked by a powerful inhaling bellows, which
+swiftly and silently suck up, from carpet, furniture, and curtains, all
+particles of accumulated dust, are the perfected instruments chosen;
+unlike the ordinary dust-raising machines,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span> which must be followed by an
+army of dusting cloths, these suction machines do perfect work, leaving
+the air of the renovated room pure, wholesome and fairly free from
+floating dust, with its accompanying cloud of disease-laden germs. Many
+similar accomplishments in other departments of housework, soon convince
+all opponents, that personal prejudice must not be allowed to interfere
+with the working of the system."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me Fillmore! If at this point I interrupt you, with a question
+which I wish to preface with this remark! In the estimation of most
+women, well-kept hands, are considered as a rule, to indicate the
+measure of the owners refinement. According to my judgment, there is
+nothing which so quickly destroys the contour and suppleness of the
+hands, and that much prized, white, velvety smoothness of skin, as
+dishwashing. As a matter of fact, the woman's self-respect is involved
+in the loss. For this reason, I believe women dislike that disagreeable
+part of housework more than any other. Premising that my theory is true,
+how can you manage this matter at Solaris, in order to avoid trouble?"</p>
+
+<p>"I accept your question as a welcome interruption! It gives me a chance
+to tell you more about our kitchen work, which I feel sure will interest you greatly!</p>
+
+<p>"For reasons which I shall state presently, our women workers do not
+desire to avoid frequent six-hour details as dishwashers at the
+restaurant. By our new methods, the task is easily and quickly accomplished.</p>
+
+<p>"The washers are not required to put their hands into hot or cold water
+during the process. Traveling carriers on either side of the dining
+rooms, run<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a></span> to and from the kitchen. In one, the food comes to the
+tables, in response to phone orders from the waiter. In the other, the
+dishes are returned to the kitchen. There, the washers scrape the bones
+and rejected food into the waiting barrels. These barrels when filled,
+go to the feeding yards of the pigs and poultry.</p>
+
+<p>"The dishes, after being scraped, are then placed in the washing
+machine. This machine, run by electric power, is a wide, deep,
+round-bottomed trough, built in a circle twenty feet in diameter. Along
+the bottom of this trough, is a moving track, which travels slowly
+around the circle with its train of metal carriers. On these carriers
+are placed the dishes as they come from the hands of the scrapers. When
+the carrier thus laden commences its circular journey, the
+dishes&mdash;placed well apart&mdash;are subjected to dashing jets of warm, soapy
+water, and then to more torrential jets of hot, and very hot pure water.</p>
+
+<p>"Comfortably seated, at convenient points around the machine, the
+washers control the force and quantity of the water jets, and whenever
+necessary, assist the cleansing process with their long-handled swabs.
+When this process is finished, the dishes arrive at the drying boards,
+so hot that by the time the wipers with their thick towels have placed
+them in the racks where they belong, all are perfectly clean and dry.</p>
+
+<p>"Our pots, sauce pans, stew pans and kettles, are all designed for
+electric cooking, and are made in shapes best adapted for easy cleaning.
+For these, an additional washing-sink is provided. Over this sink,
+connected with the electric wires, we have rigged three hanging
+spindles, of as many different sizes. These spindles can be raised or
+lowered by<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span> the operator, while they are in motion. Each spindle is
+armed on every side with loose wings of alternating wire scrapers and
+dish-cloths. The vessel to be cleansed is placed on the movable carrier
+at the bottom of the sink. Passing under a spindle of the proper size,
+the spindle is lowered, and at once begins to revolve with a strong,
+rotary pressure. This searching, chafing pressure, in connection with
+the hot-water jets, soon cleans and polishes the most obstinate among the kettles.</p>
+
+<p>"The kitchen and dish pantry combined, is a very large, well-lighted,
+well-ventilated room. This room is constantly kept sweet and comfortable
+by electric fans. The work is light, and never monotonous. Only two, of
+the six hours devoted to kitchen duty, are spent in the active work of
+dish washing. During the remaining hours, the washers take lessons in
+cookery, from the chief and the two assistants. These three important
+officials, are chosen from the ranks of competent volunteers. They are
+responsible for the kitchen work. They plan all the meals, and direct
+the work of the under cooks. The system soon comes to work like a charm!
+I can truthfully say, that it gives general satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>"The success attending this extension of co-operative methods, to
+embrace the entire list of worry-producing details which belong to
+general house work, is hailed with delight by our matrons and maidens.
+They keenly appreciate the great blessing of this movement, which has
+rescued them from the harassing, health-destroying drudgery, of a house
+wife on a small farm. They well know the sad story, which comes from
+thousands of such farms, where isolated lives, overburden of cares<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a></span> and
+long hours of irritating, never-ending toil, have produced such fearful,
+mental depression, that as a result, we find six hundred farmers' wives,
+among the inmates of asylums for the insane, in each one of the States
+of Michigan and Kansas. The proportion for other agricultural States, is
+doubtless much the same. What a horrible array of statistics, this is to
+contemplate! What an indictment against existing agricultural
+conditions! What a sad fate, to overtake the mothers of so many sons and
+daughters of the farms of this Republic! Who can measure the intensity
+of the agony and suffering, these children may thus inherit! What
+possible argument, can speak more eloquently, or call more loudly, for
+the immediate adoption of co-operative farming by our agricultural people?</p>
+
+<p>"In the matter of frequent bathing to maintain personal cleanliness; the
+popularity, with both old and young, of our fine hot and cold, plunge,
+swimming and shower baths, free to all, which are kept open in
+connection with the laundry; proves conclusively, that the habit of
+cleanliness, like all other habits, is the result of environment; or in
+other words, of opportunity and the strong impulse of social example.</p>
+
+<p>"In treating your question as though it contained several sub-divisions,
+I may perhaps have made my answer too lengthy. Do you find it so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh no! On the contrary it is clear, brief, interesting and to the
+point! You have told me just what I most desired to know! I perceive
+that the practical working of a co-operative colony, answers a great
+many puzzling questions, which hitherto, we have passed by as hopeless
+problems. From the commencement of this work, I have been <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span>concerned,
+lest the discipline necessary to maintain a proper working harmony in
+such a large colony, should prove a fruitful source of discontent. I am
+rejoiced to find that my fears were groundless!</p>
+
+<p>"This brings me to my second question. Do you find homesickness among
+the colonists, a frequent cause of discontent?"</p>
+
+<p>"On the contrary, the number of such cases has been surprisingly small.
+Owing, doubtless, to the marked change from isolated conditions of small
+farm life, to the superior advantages for education, amusement, social
+enjoyment, and the all-pervading enthusiasm of congenial, co-operative
+work; which here at Solaris, leaves no time for such fits of brooding
+over the past, as usually result in that severe mental depression, which
+we call homesickness. Perhaps one individual in fifty, is so constituted
+that homesickness becomes a serious illness. In such cases, the
+executive committee is authorized to grant the necessary leave of
+absence. Always providing of course, that the applicant is willing to
+comply with a rule of the organization, which assigns the pay of the
+absentee to the general service fund, for the number of days such
+absence may continue. A strict observance of this rule, leaves no cause
+for complaint by those who remain.</p>
+
+<p>"In considering the question from another standpoint, we find the
+general tone and disposition of our people, has been raised to a much
+higher, happier pitch, by the evolution of the musical spirit,
+introduced and inspired by the work of the dancing and musical clubs.
+Stimulated by the prizes offered by the general manager, a great number
+of beautiful farm songs have been completed, and adapted to a large
+variety of farm work. These songs have been<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a></span> taken up by a goodly number
+of glee clubs, organized for the purpose from among those members of the
+musical club, who had the good fortune to possess a fine quality of voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Careful training and steady practice, soon enabled these lesser vocal
+organizations, to render the entire list of songs, with a mellow
+smoothness, an inspiring swing of rythm, and a well rounded tone of
+perfection, which was really quite surprising. These vocalists,
+scattered through the fifties and hundreds of farm workers in the hay,
+harvest, corn and cotton fields; the nursery, gardens, orchards and
+vineyards; the dairy, mills, factories and packing-houses; the brick
+works, mines and quarries; the workshops of the store, and the assembly
+meetings of the co-operators; became competent teachers, who, by their
+leadership and example, soon made it possible for every member of the
+colony, to master both words and music of all the songs. This course of
+vocal training proved so fascinating, that our people literally absorbed
+it! The children, even more quickly than the adults!</p>
+
+<p>"Thoroughly tested in the practical work of every department of the
+farm; the beneficial effect has proved a marvel, which has far exceeded
+the expectations of our musical enthusiasts. Many fine voices have been
+discovered, developed and trained. The benign influence of this musical
+wave, has shown a constant tendency to extend its sway in all
+directions. This blending of voices, has added a hitherto unknown zest
+to the work; and a stronger tie to every association connected with it.
+Best of all, as directly affecting the question under discussion! It has
+proved a most potent factor in driving away the spirit of ill-humor,
+inharmony, and discontent; also<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span> in breaking the charm of old
+associations, home ties, and retrospective, social memories, so
+conducive to attacks of homesickness. The exhilarating, helpful rythm,
+of these inspiring songs, has given an added force to the working power
+of the farm. It has largely reduced the fatigue, and increased the
+amount of work that can be performed in a given time. Further, we find
+the general mental, physical and spiritual health of our people,
+correspondingly improved.</p>
+
+<p>"A curious fact, is disclosed by these vocal experiments. It is this,
+that the vibration of musical tones, in the blending voices of a mixed
+multitude, produces a moral, mental and spiritual harmony, such as
+cannot be achieved in any other way. In point of fact, we get a
+composite expression of the highest soul element of the mass&mdash;a new
+phase of the exceeding fruitfulness of co-operative effort! It may be
+stated in conclusion, that there comes to the minds of our people, an
+added power, flowing from the general hypnotic effect, of harmonious
+co-operation. This power brings with it a right conception of human
+life, in which a certain amount of necessary, productive labor, becomes
+the keynote, which completes a perfect anthem, and more symmetrically
+rounds out the full measure, melody and grandeur, of an individual
+existence. What think you of these results?"</p>
+
+<p>"They are very wonderful indeed! They reflect much credit on the
+excellent work inspired by the dancing and musical clubs; also on the
+genius and culture of the vocalists, and the marvelous efficiency of a
+well-directed co-operative effort. This triumph in a new field, which so
+increases the possibilities of soul expression, suggests the use of
+music as a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a></span> prime factor in all future systems for ethical culture.</p>
+
+<p>"Now Fillmore, please tell me. How has the example of Solaris farm,
+affected the industrial, social, and political situation in this town and county?"</p>
+
+<p>"The effect has been favorable in every way! The attractiveness of our
+social organization! the financial success which has crowned our farming
+and manufacturing operations; the opportunities offered for young men to
+learn so much of the industrial arts; the short hours of light labor;
+the long hours of leisure for rest, study and amusement; the
+educational, health-giving character, of the amusements; the
+fascination, of the club-system of education for adults; the
+irresistible charm, of the dancing and vocal entertainments; the
+generous wages paid to the co-operators, which affords for them such an
+abundant supply of food, clothing and books; the fine quality and
+perfect reliability of the large assortment of goods in the farm-store;
+the advantages of a rational scheme of insurance, which stands as an
+absolute safe-guard against accidents, sickness and old-age; the
+improved conditions for women, which largely relieves them from the
+irritating, nerve-destroying worry, of a constant burden of household
+cares; the fostering care for children, which insures for them ideal
+opportunities for birth, unfoldment and education; the manifest
+advantage of farming on a scale large enough to allow the use of the
+latest and best labor-saving machinery; the astonishing array of huge,
+modern barns, storing, curing and packing houses; the wonderful
+cheapness and utility of the electric power; the long list of farm
+implements, many of them especially invented, which followed the
+introduction of this magic-working power; the wide publicity given to
+these<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span> things through the columns of the Solaris Sentinel, our weekly
+farm paper, sent free to friends of the colonists, and to all who ask
+for it; considered altogether as a comprehensive whole, is a startling
+combination, which has arrested the attention, aroused the interest and
+provoked the astonishment of surrounding communities, far and near. As a
+consequence, our office has been overwhelmed with a flood of
+correspondence from interested enquirers, followed by an ever-increasing
+stream of visitors to Solaris, to see for themselves, the verity of this
+twentieth century model of farm innovation. In order to answer the great
+bulk of queries, emanating from these two sources, a series of articles
+describing the object and purpose, and explaining the details of the
+enterprise, has been prepared for the columns of the Sentinel. With an
+extra large edition of this newspaper, we are prepared to supply as many
+interested people as may apply.</p>
+
+<p>"The applications to join the company, made by progressive young farmers
+in this and adjacent counties, have become so frequent and persistent,
+that finally we have consented to prepare the leaders for another
+co-operative colony, which we propose to locate on a certain one, of the
+nine remaining Fenwick-farm-sites, which happens to be in this county,
+only ten miles distant from Solaris. This preparatory class, is limited
+to fifty people; one-half females, married couples ranging from eighteen
+to twenty-five years of age, preferred. The course for this class,
+contemplates one year of practical work, embracing all departments of the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"The membership of this class, was filled six months ago. Six months
+hence, the graduates will be prepared to organize the new colony. I am<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a></span>
+greatly interested in the scheme, and have promised to aid in every possible way.</p>
+
+<p>"To this body of pupils, is referred all applications from prospective
+co-operators. Judging from the mass of applications already accumulated,
+when the time of organization for the new colony arrives, the list of
+eligible applicants will probably contain a thousand names. The outlook
+for the new farm company, seems unusually bright!</p>
+
+<p>"Both board and tuition for these pupils, are donated by Solaris Farm.
+At the end of the year, $100 in Solaris scrip, will be paid to each one,
+as some sort of compensation for the year's work. This arrangement is
+accepted by the pupils, as fair and perfectly satisfactory.</p>
+
+<p>"Referring to the relations existing between the Solaris Farm Company,
+and the township and county officials. It is noteworthy, that no serious
+friction has arisen. One year ago, a large proportion of town officers,
+including the assessor, town clerk, magistrate and chairman of the Board
+of Supervisors, were chosen from Solaris. Owing to the small,
+much-scattered, population of this county, the present county sheriff,
+auditor and treasurer, are also Solaris co-operators. The manifest
+integrity of this institution, seems to be accepted by the voters of the
+county, as a guarantee of the honesty and ability of its members. The
+significance of this approval, so early in the history of the movement,
+augurs well for the future dominancy of our social and industrial
+system, as a political factor in both town and county.</p>
+
+<p>"The Solaris Company has erected a roomy, substantial building, for the
+use of the town officials, for which a moderate rent is paid from the
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span>town-treasury. The county officers have secured one hundred acres of
+land two miles from Solaris, just outside the farm limits. On this, they
+propose to erect a suitable brick building for the county offices. The
+farm company, now has the contract to furnish the brick and erect the
+building. Pending its completion, the county officials occupy rented
+quarters in Solaris, which is by far the largest business center in the
+county. From this statement of the situation, you will observe that our
+co-operative vote already holds a balance of power, which controls the
+policy of both town and county. With the advent of Colony number 2, the
+interests of co-operation in this county, are secure for all time.
+Meanwhile, we are encouraged to hope that before the close of the
+twentieth century, what co-operation has already achieved at Solaris,
+may be accomplished in every town, county and state in the Republic!</p>
+
+<p>"You ask, what disposition is made of the salaries of such co-operators
+as are elected to fill town and county offices?</p>
+
+<p>"They are paid in scrip. The salaries or fees which they receive from
+town or county, are turned into the company treasury. As these
+co-operators, in holding such offices, are in a position to materially
+aid the co-operative movement. They are justly excused from farm-work,
+whenever their official duties require attention."</p>
+
+<p>"Splendid! my dear Fillmore! Your report is very interesting, and even
+more encouraging! It seems the beginning of a fulfillment of my father's
+hopes, dreams and prophecies! I am anxious for the time to come, when he
+can tell you how much he is pleased with your work!"</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>SOLARIS SCRIP.</h3>
+
+<p>"Returning again, Fillmore, to the financial operations of the farm;
+with such a volume of business to transact, how do you manage to get
+along without having recourse to some local bank?"</p>
+
+<p>"To a large extent, we do our own banking business. Our treasurer, has
+his office in the cash room of the store. In this room we have a large
+vault, containing a fire-proof safe of the latest type. The books,
+records and funds of the company, are all kept in this safe. For our
+commercial business, we have selected one of the principal banks of St.
+Louis as our bank of deposit. A large percentage of purchases for the
+store and farm are made in that city, which is also a market for the
+bulk of our farm produce.</p>
+
+<p>"The farm company has an office near the bank, where some member of the
+executive committee, or other representative of the company, may be
+found every business day of the year. It is the duty of this agent to
+attend to purchases, consignments and sales; also to have charge of all
+business transacted through the bank of deposit. Taking care, to keep
+the amount of available funds up to the ten thousand dollar mark. To do
+this, it sometimes becomes necessary for the company to issue drafts on
+the bank of deposit for thirty, sixty and ninety days. These drafts are
+accepted by dealers, for purchases made in Chicago, Cincinnati,
+Philadelphia or New York, the same as cash.</p>
+
+<p>"As borrowers, our only dealings have been with<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span> you. In these dealings,
+at times when much in need of more capital, we have not been required to
+pay interest. Now, having returned our borrowed capital, and being free
+from debt, we have grown more independent and self-sustaining; therefore
+more averse to the idea of paying interest to any one. We are convinced
+by past experience, that all necessity for incurring interest-bearing
+obligations can be avoided. The use of Solaris Scrip in all
+intercolonial transactions, has proved a most potent factor in helping
+us to arrive at such a fortunate conclusion. By its use, ninety per cent
+of our business can be transacted on a cash basis, without using one
+cent of actual cash. In addition, we can use it as a basis on which to
+borrow. To illustrate! Suppose we need ten thousand dollars to replenish
+the stock of goods in the store, pending the sale of products on hand.
+We borrow that amount from the insurance fund, the sum being part of the
+accumulated profits on sales at the store and restaurant. We then
+replace this sum by scrip of the same face value. This scrip, to the
+pensioner or beneficiaries, is the same as cash. When they have drawn
+and spent it, the debt is cancelled. No interest is paid. The store and
+restaurant become the clearing house, through which these drafts against
+the resources of the farm are liquidated. In the same way, temporary
+loans can be made from other funds, whenever it is for the benefit of
+the united interests of the co-operators to do so.</p>
+
+<p>"How is it possible, you ask, to keep perfect control of such a large
+issue of scrip, with a certainty that all in use is genuine?</p>
+
+<p>"That is a matter which is easily regulated by our simple system of
+issue. In the first place, we<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a></span> print the scrip here at Solaris, from
+plates which, when not in use, are kept in the safe, in the custody of
+the treasurer. The five denominations issued, are as follows: five, two,
+and one dollar bills; which, together with the fifty and
+twenty-five-cent, fractional-currency scrip, make up the list. Every
+denomination has a numbered series, of ten thousand. Each series, with
+the stubs attached to the bills, is bound in book form. When issued,
+each stub remaining in the book, will show the date of issue, serial
+number, and amount of the issued bill. When cancelled, the bills are
+returned to the book, and again attached to the stub to which they
+belong. At any time, an examination of the books of issued and unissued
+scrip in the hands of the treasurer, will give the amount outstanding.
+The co-operators are requested to keep a record of the serial numbers of
+the scrip they hold or handle, and to report the loss or destruction of
+such as may happen. A history of the loss is attached to the stub, and
+the amount of the bill carried to the profit and loss account of the company.</p>
+
+<p>"If the genuineness of any piece of scrip should be questioned, a
+comparison with the stub should show the same date, number, amount and
+serrated edges, made by the peculiar pattern of the perforator belonging
+to that series. If so, the bill must be genuine. As time passes, we are
+more than ever convinced of the wonderful advantage gained by the use of
+this scrip. Our people find it much lighter and more desirable to carry
+and use, than the same amount of gold or silver coin; therefore they
+frequently request to be allowed to exchange coin for scrip. In summing
+up my replies to your questions: it seems probable, from the constantly
+increasing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span> volume of business, that the company will soon be obliged to
+take a charter that will authorize it to do a complete banking business."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXIV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE INSURANCE OFFERED BY CO-OPERATIVE FARMING.</h3>
+
+<p>"I notice, Fillmore, that you mention the borrowing of ten thousand
+dollars from the insurance fund; the same being a part of the
+accumulated profits on the business of the store and restaurant. Tell
+me; how is it possible for so large a sum to be saved in such a short time?"</p>
+
+<p>"A complete answer to your question, will bring up the whole subject of
+insurance; which presents some interesting problems. I will first try to
+give you the basis for such an amount of savings. The net per-diem pay
+of $2.50 for each adult member of the company, will give an annual
+income of a little more than $900. If we include an added pro rata for
+the children, each one will spend annually at least $450 with the store
+for goods; and $350 with the restaurant for food. Our statistics show
+much larger sums; but these will do for an estimate. Taking these
+figures for a basis, we find that the annual sales made to our own
+people by the store and restaurant combined, reach the startling sum of
+$400,000. A net profit of five per cent on this amount, gives $20,000
+each year to the insurance fund. At this rate, the profits for thirty
+months, reach the goodly sum of $50,000. To which we may add $2,500<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a></span>
+more, as profits on sales to the amount of $50,000, made during that
+period by the store and restaurant, to people from surrounding
+communities. Altogether, we have a grand up-to-date total for the
+insurance fund of $52,500. These profits will continue to increase with
+larger sales to outside people; also with the increased wages or incomes
+of the co-operators, as the products and profits of the farm continue to grow.</p>
+
+<p>"Such favorable statistics are very encouraging. They demonstrate that
+only a five per cent profit will be needed, to meet all future demands
+against the insurance fund, even when the colony has its maximum number
+of children and superannuated co-operators. The remaining profits, which
+in some departments of the store are large, may wisely be devoted to
+educational and missionary work.</p>
+
+<p>"From another point of view, this eloquent array of figures, has an
+additional value. They show conclusively, that the restaurant alone
+furnishes a home market annually for $175,000 worth of farm produce:
+beef, mutton, pork, lard, honey, syrup, milk, butter, cheese, eggs,
+poultry, vegetables, fruits and grains.</p>
+
+<p>"If we consider the sales made by the store, we find after deducting the
+cost of raw material, that at least fifty per cent of the goods
+purchased by our people, are really the products of the skilled labor of
+the farm: such as crockery, furniture, willow ware, picture frames,
+brushes, clothing, underwear, bed furnishings, and goods from the
+tailoring, dress-making and millinery departments. From this showing it
+will appear, that the store becomes a home market each year, for farm
+products to the amount of $112,500. To this, let us add the sums of
+sales through the restaurant, and those made through the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span> markets of the
+outside world. Altogether, we have a grand total of $787,500 for the
+market value of farm products last year.</p>
+
+<p>"Does this exhibit appeal to you as a reasonable basis for the
+accumulated savings named in your questions?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am sure the exhibit has astonished me greatly! Your figures and
+statements are both fascinating and convincing. They are all, most
+excellent arguments in favor of co-operative methods. I now perceive
+that even on the basis of present conditions, a five per cent profit
+turned into the insurance fund, at the end of the first ten years, will
+amount to the extraordinary sum of $200,000. With this magnificent fund,
+you can afford to extend the scope of your original plan! How will you
+dispose of it? At what age do you propose to retire the active workers?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, our original plans have been changed, and very much enlarged. The
+insurance fund has grown so rapidly, that it was deemed wise to expend a
+portion of it, in building a hospital for the accommodation of our farm
+people, and perhaps a few outside patients. Last year, a two-story and
+basement brick building, was erected just in the heart of our finest
+shrubbery dotted lawn, some distance from the public square. It is large
+enough for about one hundred patients. Viewed from any point, it
+presents a charming appearance. It is conceded by all to be the
+handsomest structure on the farm. Inside, with its polished floors,
+magnificent windows, large rooms, high, beautifully frescoed walls and
+ceilings, dainty couches, cozy chairs, and wide, breezy halls, with
+picture-laden walls; every condition is present to satisfy the highest
+ideal of sick-room comfort.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[Pg 276]</a></span> Brighter, sunnier, more health-inspiring
+rooms never soothed, charmed or healed a nerve shattered patient!</p>
+
+<p>"Under the supervision of the sanitary committee, the hospital at
+present, is in charge of a young surgeon employed by the company. His
+services are utilized in teaching and preparing a class of trained
+nurses. He also teaches the members of the chemistry and physiology
+clubs, in their new study rooms at the hospital. At a later period this
+surgeon will be superseded by two of our own people. A young woman and a
+young man, both with some previous knowledge of pharmacy, who have been
+in charge of the drug department at the store; have recently developed a
+strong desire to take a thorough course of medicine and surgery at some
+leading school. Upon the recommendation of the general manager, approved
+by a unanimous vote of the co-operators, the expense of this schooling
+is to be taken from the insurance fund, with the understanding however,
+that after graduating, they are to relieve the company of the expense of
+a hired surgeon, by taking permanent charge of the hospital, or as our
+people have christened it, the 'Temple of health.'</p>
+
+<p>"Relative to the question of retiring members of the company; much
+thought and discussion on the part of our officers and co-operators, has
+been required, to properly and wisely fix the age at which such
+retirement shall take place.</p>
+
+<p>"Many important questions have been considered. Our present colony, as
+you know, is composed of young people, as a rule not yet thirty years of
+age. Individually they possess strong, disease-resisting, vital
+organizations, which have been reinforced by harmonious, mental and
+physical development. This immunity from disease to such a large extent,
+has<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[Pg 277]</a></span> been still further strengthened and fortified, by the beneficial
+effects of our organized sanitary, social and industrial methods. These
+methods have lifted the weary burden of toil from our people, and
+substituted therefor, a light exhilarating labor, simply healthful
+exercise. Under such favorable conditions, our workers ought to reach
+the age of fifty, with health and vigor still unimpaired. For the
+reasons named, very few of our co-operators, outside the ranks of the
+mother's club, are at present entitled on account of either illness or
+accident, to draw their wages from the insurance fund. Fortunately, so
+far, not one has become permanently disabled! All things considered, it
+was not unexpected, when a final vote on the question was taken, that a
+majority was found to be in favor of fixing the age of retirement at fifty years.</p>
+
+<p>"This decision will give the farm company, twenty years in which to
+prepare for the event. In the light of our past experience, no one
+doubts our ability to accumulate an adequate fund, with which to meet
+the additional drain upon it. This drain will prove a heavy one, as the
+retired pay of the co-operators, who have reached the age of fifty, has
+been fixed at two-thirds of their present pay, that is, fifty dollars
+per month or $600 per annum. Premising that the maximum number on the
+retired list at any one time will not exceed fifty; the total annual
+retired pay will then amount to $30,000.</p>
+
+<p>"The following plan has been devised to meet this additional
+expenditure. It has been demonstrated conclusively, that five years
+hence, the income of the farm, will warrant the increase of the wages of
+each member of the company, to $1,500 per year. At least $1,200 of this
+amount, will be spent at the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a></span> store or restaurant. We shall then have a
+new basis for calculating the five per cent profit for the insurance
+fund; that is, $600,000 annually, which will give $30,000 each year for
+the fund. Allowing that savings at the present rate, $20,000 per annum,
+for seven and one-half years, aggregating $150,000; will prove ample for
+incidental needs, until the time for the retirement of the first
+co-operator! We calculate that fifteen years of savings on the new
+basis, will give us twenty years hence, a fund of $450,000 to commence with.</p>
+
+<p>"If practical experience should prove that larger savings are necessary;
+an additional two and one-half per cent profit, may be set aside for
+this fund, without seriously curtailing the sums devoted to educational
+and missionary purposes. This will surely cover all possible
+contingencies. More especially, as seven and one-half per cent of all
+retired pay, will come back to the fund as profits on purchases&mdash;active
+workers having taken the place of the retired members. Considering the
+generous annuity provided by this insurance, together with the fact that
+the wants of the pensioners will become fewer as age increases;
+doubtless, at the end of each year, many of them will turn back into the
+fund, considerable sums of unused pay.</p>
+
+<p>"As another important factor, connected with the question of this kind
+of insurance, it should be well understood, that after reaching the age
+of retirement, our members do not cease to be valuable productive
+workers, either for the financial gain of the colony, or for the general
+welfare of the movement, which the colony represents. On the contrary,
+in many cases, their services are liable to become more valuable than
+ever before. Between the ages of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span> fifty and sixty, they remain subject
+to assignments to serve on committees, to act as traveling agents for
+the company, to represent the company as lecturers and organizers, for
+the spread of the movement; to act as aids to the teachers in the
+schools and the numerous clubs. They are also eligible to election as
+town, county, state or United States officials. In committee work,
+connected with the store and the various factories, their riper
+judgment, based on many years of experience, would prove especially
+valuable: often by timely advice, they would be able to save for the
+company in one transaction, an amount in money more than equal to their
+entire wages for the year.</p>
+
+<p>"In another way their services would prove equally advantageous. With
+such an increase of leisure, there would come to these retired
+co-operators, a desire, and the opportunity, to enter more actively into
+the practical work of the scientific clubs. If inclined, they could take
+up all kinds of scientific research; making themselves especially useful
+in the practical, productive and profitable work of the educational,
+microscopical, chemical and photographic clubs. Those who had a talent
+for invention, could then devote as much time, energy and thought to it,
+as they chose. To aid them, they would have the advantage of an acquired
+skill in the use of tools, and of all kinds of complicated machinery,
+which would be a part of the outfit belonging to the thoroughly equipped
+machine shop at their disposal. In the laboratory, they could find the
+books, maps, and drawings, necessary to bring them up to date in any
+line of invention which they might choose to enter.</p>
+
+<p>"Taking these important factors into <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a></span>consideration, we discover that
+our co-operative inventor, would be armed to conquer his subject by a
+magnificent equipment, such as an ordinary inventor could not hope to command.</p>
+
+<p>"So ably reinforced by the advantages enumerated, our corps of
+inventors, of both sexes, would be inspired by a labor of love. Unbiased
+by any selfish motives, they would be working for the farm and for
+humanity. With no cause to distrust their fellows, they could openly
+discuss their discoveries, without fear of having them stolen;
+consequently, they could have the willing assistance of all the
+inventive minds in the colony, in developing and perfecting their
+original inventions. This would be an experience utterly unheard of, in
+the annals of an industry based on the competitive system. It would be
+the beginning of co-operative invention as an art. It would mark another
+great step in harmonious, practical and profitable co-operative
+thinking, that would lead to discoveries of vast importance to the
+world; discoveries that could not be made in any other way. It is
+difficult for even the most enthusiastic optimist to imagine, what a
+revolution in the inventive world, will follow the introduction of such
+superior co-operative methods; or what wonders will be wrought by them,
+before the close of the first half of the twentieth century!</p>
+
+<p>"Let us consider what they might do for our superannuated farmers.
+Quickened by such an added potency of perfect, co-operative, mental,
+conditions, our inventors would naturally aspire to still higher
+achievements. Each year they would be able to produce many valuable
+inventions, which could not be used by the farm, but which could be sold
+by the company after being patented, for good round sums<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[Pg 281]</a></span> in cash! In
+this way it becomes evident, that our old members might prove the most
+prolific cash producers on the farm. It is even possible, and quite
+probable, that the sale of one invention, might bring to the company, a
+sum of money, more than equal to the combined pensions of the retired
+co-operators for one year. From this particular source, would flow an
+additional fund for educational work in pushing the movement before the public.</p>
+
+<p>"Viewed in this light, to be retired on two-thirds pay at the age of
+fifty, is simply a matter of justice! When justice is done, the mission
+of charity is finished!</p>
+
+<p>"In considering the growing interest in the insurance question among
+people of the outside world, we find great numbers of laboring people,
+and of small farmers everywhere, who are beginning to understand that it
+is a question of vital importance, an open gateway through which they
+may gain access to the broad fields of abundance. Every day, both by
+observation and experience, they are taught that without the aid of some
+special insurance, nine out of ten who start in business fail. Also,
+that nine farmers out of ten, who start with a meagre capital, after
+twenty years of constant toil, find themselves the slaves of some money
+lender who holds a mortgage on the farm. These mortgages are largely the
+result of a hopeful struggle on the farmer's part, in a last vain effort
+to compete with the expensive methods of syndicate and bonanza farms.</p>
+
+<p>"No wonder the average worker is anxious to discover some method of
+insurance, that will safe-guard him against the disasters which have
+overwhelmed so many of his predecessors! No wonder these workers come to
+believe it possible, that out<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[Pg 282]</a></span> of a given number of say one thousand
+men, who start in life without capital, except such as they possess in
+ordinary health and strength; at least fifty per cent are liable to die
+in the poor-house, or in some way become helpless dependents on charity!
+Against such an alarming proposition, the average optimist or plutocrat,
+cries out, impossible! No, No! In this Republic, such things could never
+happen! Besides, how preposterous! Don't you know, that the general
+prosperity of the country was never greater than now! Why the wealth of
+the nation is growing at a marvelous rate! Never before, were fortunes
+made so easily! The way is open for every industrious man; no matter how
+poor he may be at the start. If people come to want in the midst of such
+golden opportunities, they have only themselves to blame.</p>
+
+<p>"By way of an answer to these optimistic assertions, let us apply the
+figures collected by Prof. A. G. Warner, published in his 'American
+Charities.' In this book he has tabulated the results of fifteen
+investigations, both in this country and abroad, into the actual causes
+of poverty. These investigations embrace over one hundred thousand
+individual cases, found in the cities of Baltimore, New York, Boston,
+Cincinnati, London, England, and seventy-six cities in Germany. In the
+causes of poverty stated, eleven per cent are due to intemperance, ten
+and three-tenths per cent to other kinds of misconduct; while
+seventy-four and four-tenths per cent are due to misfortune, such as
+poorly-paid work, lack of work, sickness, etc. Here, we have actual
+proof that seventy-five thousand in the ranks of this vast army of
+poverty-stricken people, were reduced to such straits, by causes which
+they could not control.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span> How dreadful the significance of these terrible
+figures! What a blot they become, on the fair page of progress achieved
+by the nineteenth century! What a warning to the people of the
+twentieth! What an indictment against existing, social, and industrial
+conditions! What argument could be more convincing, or demand more
+imperatively, the immediate adoption of co-operative methods, which
+offer absolute insurance against the recurrence of such calamities?</p>
+
+<p>"As relating to the insurance question, and by the way of a contrast
+between competitive and co-operative methods, let us consider the following statement.</p>
+
+<p>"We learn from statistics, that for the family of a skilled workman of
+the better class&mdash;a family of five persons&mdash;the average annual cost of
+living is $420. This includes food, shelter, raiment, fuel, laundry,
+light, water, medical attendance, medicine, education and recreation.</p>
+
+<p>"Under the competitive system, to earn this sum required, on the part of
+the adults and such of the children as were able to work, the continuous
+toil of three hundred days, twelve hours long&mdash;counting the possible
+workers of the family as three, and the labor day as twelve hours
+long&mdash;we have in the aggregate, say eleven thousand weary hours of this
+nerve depressing labor. A labor often performed in the midst of the most
+repulsive and unsanitary conditions; to which the toilers were
+constantly goaded by the cruel spur of necessity. This is a picture of
+the living expenses and daily working life of a family of the superior
+class, far above the average among the workers under the competitive system.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a></span></p><p>"To illustrate what the co-operative system can do, let us transfer the
+account of this family, to a co-operative agricultural colony like this.
+On the basis of three hundred days of labor annually, we should have
+daily for the two adults&mdash;the children being in school&mdash;six hours of
+productive labor and two hours of educative labor, an aggregate of four
+thousand, eight hundred hours, of work for the year. This work would be
+separated by such generous periods of rest and recreation, and performed
+amidst such pleasant surroundings, that the worker could truthfully
+count them as so many hours spent in necessary healthful exercise.</p>
+
+<p>"As a result of this labor, we could place the annual income of the
+family at $1,800. All available, for providing the very best of food,
+shelter, clothing, heat, light, laundry, hospital service, medical
+attendance, medicine, education and amusement. Also superior social
+surroundings, with increased facilities for being well born; with
+educative advantages, embracing a higher order of intellectual
+amusements, art-culture, musical training, and industrial skill.</p>
+
+<p>"In addition, the family would enjoy a savings account of generous
+proportions, represented by the constantly increasing value of the farm,
+its stock, crops, buildings, store and goods, material, machinery,
+industrial plants, orchards, vineyards and forests.</p>
+
+<p>"Still better! They would have savings in the sinking fund, providing
+land, and homes for their children and grand-children in a long line of
+future generations.</p>
+
+<p>"Best of all! This family would have savings in the insurance fund,
+providing for an old age of ease and comfort, free from care, sweetened
+and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span>brightened by leisure, travel and the refinements of study, art and
+music!</p>
+
+<p>"In striking a balance between these two accounts, we discover a
+difference in favor of the co-operative system, with its magical
+insurance, which is wider, deeper and more startling than the difference
+between the illustrations of Dante's Inferno, and the descriptions of Milton's paradise!</p>
+
+<p>"A careful study of this insurance question, has taught our people many
+valuable lessons. They have learned to consider from a new standpoint,
+the object and purpose of life, and the amount of work necessary to
+support that life.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned that poverty is a needless crime against progress,
+which can and must be abolished!</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that in these days of general prosperity, marked by
+a wealth of labor-saving machinery, never before dreamed possible,
+co-operation has demonstrated, that an average of but six hours each
+day, devoted to farm work, will abundantly supply the means which will
+yield them, the highest advantages of birth, education, amusement, and
+everything necessary to a healthful enjoyment of life.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned that the true purpose of work, is not to make and
+hoard money; but to secure these advantages for themselves and their children.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned that money is not a necessity; that it is only the
+means to an end. They have learned that confidence in each other, among
+members of a co-operative colony, working unselfishly together, largely
+takes the place of money.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned that practical education equips<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a></span> them with a
+knowledge, of how to deal justly with each other, in all the social
+relations of life.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned that the pathway which leads to success, in winning
+the largest measure of all these advantages, is reached by adopting
+unselfish methods, which will insure the welfare of all. They have
+learned that this condition may be attained by building up co-operative
+systems that furnish remunerative self employment, and at the same time
+enables them to enjoy free access to the natural sources of life.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned that this free access cannot be secured, without
+first obtaining permanent control of the necessary tracts of land, not
+less than ten acres per capita. They have learned that these tracts
+should contain at least five thousand acres, in order to properly
+support an industrial co-operative colony of one thousand people.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned that the social, ethical and intellectual advantages
+offered to the individual, by this co-operative colony life, are even
+greater than those relating to the question of finance.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that when selfish distrust of each other is once
+banished from the minds of the workers by the force of repeated examples
+of co-operative success; then, it will be practical and easy to organize
+the farms and farm laborers of this Republic, with its army of the poor
+and the unemployed of every class, into systems of co-operative farm
+villages, or similar industrial associations.</p>
+
+<p>"In this knowledge our people rejoice! They are filled with an unselfish
+desire to spread the good news broadcast! Can you, my dear Fern! imagine
+for them, a purpose in life more noble or more worthy?"</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[Pg 287]</a></span></p><p>"No, my dear Fillmore! I cannot! So eloquently have you stated the
+case, that the outlook for the future is glorious! How graphically you
+have pictured the growing importance of this question of insurance! I am
+amazed, and more deeply interested than ever! I never before dreamed it
+possible, that the co-operative farm could offer so much defense against
+the calamities of life, which grow out of the pinching pressure of poverty!</p>
+
+<p>"The scheme for providing for the members of the Mother's Club, and for
+retiring co-operators at the age of fifty, meets my enthusiastic
+approval! I am sure it will commend itself to the workers and thinkers
+of the world! To me, it seems admirable, from every point of view!"</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE MOTHER'S CLUB.</h3>
+
+<p>"Mark it well, Fillmore! I have now reached a very important question.
+What have you to tell me about stirpiculture, as a part of the
+co-operative farm movement?"</p>
+
+<p>"As a basis for the preliminary work, we have been following carefully,
+the suggestions of your father, Fennimore Fenwick. You will remember, my
+dear Fern, that they were to the effect, that the children of the farm,
+should be the crowning glory of all its products; that it should be the
+province of the corporation to provide for the children of the
+co-operators, every advantage of favorable pre-natal conditions, birth,
+unfoldment and education, that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[Pg 288]</a></span> money could procure for the wealthy.
+Therefore, that ideal environments for mothers and motherhood, must be
+created and maintained.</p>
+
+<p>"In order to carry out these epoch-making ideas, such of our matrons as
+are willing to assume the conditions, responsibilities, and cares of
+motherhood, are relieved from all farm work, at any time they may chose.
+However, much of the work is so enjoyable, and affords so much pleasant
+exercise, that many of them become volunteers. Meanwhile, they are paid
+regular wages from our insurance fund. With this abundant leisure and
+freedom from care, they are prepared to become zealous workers in the Mother's Club.</p>
+
+<p>"Our Mother's Club at Solaris, was organized by Gertrude Gerrish, as the
+fulfillment of a long cherished dream. She has reason to be proud of her
+work! Like that other Gertrude, made so famous by Pestalozzi's charming
+story, Gertrude Gerrish is a born teacher, an ideal mother, one of
+nature's noble women. Much of the success attained by the club, is due
+to her wonderful power as a leader. Her enthusiasm is infectious. It has
+carried all obstacles before it. To this self appointed task, she has
+given her best energies, a rich harvest of ripe experience, with its
+fruitage of earnest thought, radiant and glowing with the genial
+influence of her sunny temperament, and withal, rendered more potent, by
+an overflowing love from the deep fountain of her great mother heart. Is
+it a matter of wonder, that she is such a general favorite with club
+members! Her word they accept as law. Her suggestions as commands.</p>
+
+<p>"To Gertrude Gerrish, motherhood was a holy and sacred office, which
+demanded from its devotees,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span> a season of careful preparation, and a
+thorough knowledge of the physiological and psychological laws, which
+govern that life-evolving function, that crowning glory of womanhood.
+She seemed to be inspired with the idea, that progress has ordained,
+that unwilling, ignorant and accidental mothers, must be replaced by
+those who are predetermined, properly educated and fully prepared. These
+ideas, she has endeavored to impress most forcibly, upon the minds of
+all club members. She has also taught them the importance of maintaining
+joyous, healthful, mental conditions; consequently, of carefully
+avoiding all emotions of selfishness, cruelty, anger, envy, or
+melancholy. In this connection, for the purpose of creating in the minds
+of our club mothers, as many good and pleasurable emotions as possible,
+and of repeating these anabolic emotions so often, that they may become
+dominant during the entire gestative period; Gertrude Gerrish has wisely
+planned for them, a great deal of open air exercise, study and amusement.</p>
+
+<p>"The study of botany, and botanizing parties, have become very popular.
+These prospective mothers, have quickly learned how to amuse themselves,
+by combining study with pleasure. When organized into congenial outing
+parties, almost every fine day they may be found, seated in the
+luxuriously appointed motor carriages which belong to the club, ready
+for a lively spin away to the woods. This gives them an opportunity to
+enjoy the pure air and bright sunshine, the wide, undulating landscape,
+tinted by the exquisite coloring of every flowering plant, shrub and
+tree. How delightful to them, is the restful green of dewy meadows; the
+sweet music of birds, the charming chatter and playful antics, of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a></span> the
+swift-footed squirrels! How grateful, the leafy coolness and bracing
+ozone of the forest; the dancing shadows of its deep glens, with their
+garnered treasures of mosses and ferns! How inspiring, the merry tinkle
+of the clear streamlet, swiftly flowing over its rocky bed; or the
+louder roar of the rushing waterfall, where drooping boughs glisten and
+sparkle with spray-laden foliage! All these, are nature's matchless
+charms, which appeal to our young mothers in their best moments, their
+most responsive moods; banishing all thoughts of evil, awakening in
+their hearts, new spiritual impulses, feelings of worshipful adoration;
+emotions of the highest and purest order. Than this, nothing could prove
+more helpful in maintaining perfect conditions of mental and spiritual serenity.</p>
+
+<p>"Inhaling the pure, invigorating air of the country, far from the dust
+and filth, the smoke and poisonous gases, the turmoil and strife, the
+ceaseless din, the selfishness and sin of the great city, close to the
+fostering bosom of mother earth, under a broad dome of blue sky, bathed
+in floods of golden sunlight, exulting in the exuberance of perfect
+health, these grateful young mothers, realize how much they owe to the
+co-operative farm movement, for surrounding them with such ideal conditions of life.</p>
+
+<p>"They realize, the great, good fortune of children, who are born and
+reared in the midst of such delightful environments. They perceive, with
+a keen sense of sorrow, that children who are born and bred away from
+these rural conditions, are robbed of more than one-half their natural
+rights. They realize, more than ever before, the filth, the misery, the
+squalor, the fetid air, and the unsanitary conditions, of our great
+cities. They shudder, when<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[Pg 291]</a></span> they contemplate, the bitterness of the
+misfortune, the cruelty of the deprivation, of the great mass of
+children, who must be born and bred in the midst of such depressing,
+unhealthy surroundings. They know intuitively, that only a puny, sickly,
+half-developed race of people, can come from such a sad birth. Under
+such circumstances, they do not wonder, that fully one-third of the
+human family, die in infancy.</p>
+
+<p>"Indoors, the handsomely furnished, beautifully decorated club rooms,
+which are located in the kindergarten building, offer the maximum of
+elegance and comfort to club members. There, in harmonious groups, they
+may engage in conversation, study, writing, musical exercises, and other
+varieties of club work. The esthetic tastes of the members are
+quickened, and their pleasures much enhanced, by the fine display of oil
+paintings, water colors, pencil sketches, etchings, and photographs,
+which have been hung on the walls, by admiring friends from the art and
+photography clubs. It has been the chosen work of the last named club,
+to supply the center tables in the reading rooms, with a series of large
+portfolios, containing a choice collection of finely finished,
+beautifully mounted photographs. This collection is varied, unique and
+valuable; and withal, exceedingly interesting. It embraces artistic
+copies of the world's finest statuary, pictures of eminent men, noted,
+historic buildings, rare landscapes and most picturesque scenery. These,
+supplemented by an abundant supply of choice books, furnish excellent
+conditions, and a most fascinating incentive, for a harmonious,
+satisfying, self-culture, of the highest type. Under the able leadership
+of Gertrude Gerrish, the interest shown, the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[Pg 292]</a></span>enthusiasm awakened, and
+the progress achieved, is something remarkable.</p>
+
+<p>"Thus prepared, the members find themselves on a higher mental and
+spiritual plane of existence, where they can appreciate the
+possibilities, of what may be accomplished by true motherhood, as a
+regenerator of society. They can understand the significance of the
+great lesson taught by history, which is, that all progress for the
+race, depends upon the elevation, education and refinement, achieved by
+woman. With quickened vision, they can perceive, that with the dawn of
+the twentieth century, comes the beginning of a new cycle in the life of
+the planet; the commencement of woman's golden era! In the higher light
+of such a vision, they become aware, that they must strive continually,
+for more wisdom, that they may reach a higher consciousness of
+individual responsibility, as keepers and guardians of the sacred temple
+of human life.</p>
+
+<p>"In the preparatory work for a progressive parentage, club members are
+taught, that prospective fathers and mothers, must become familiar with
+the sciences, the industrial, and the higher arts, if they wish their
+children to inherit, whatever intellectual progress, they as parents,
+may achieve. The new psychology, with a better knowledge of nature's
+evolutionary methods, declares, that these trained intellectual
+attributes, may be transmitted to offspring, if the parents are willing
+to prepare themselves, to respond to the demands of natural law.</p>
+
+<p>"In the domain of more practical club work, the members are taught how
+to prepare the diet and clothing, which may be necessary for the proper
+care of healthy nursing mothers and infants. They are also taught the
+hygiene and physiology of <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[Pg 293]</a></span>motherhood; in addition, as much as possible,
+about the laws that govern the procreative body of woman, when it
+becomes the temple of evolving life. In connection therewith, they are
+instructed to observe closely, the initial and pre-natal conditions,
+which dominate this primal stage of embryo life.</p>
+
+<p>"As a result of this comprehensive course of training, our young mothers
+soon find themselves, inspired by a hypnotic wave of enthusiasm, which
+is sure to follow many days of pleasant association, discussion, and
+systematic study. Stimulated by this enthusiasm, and aided by the
+potency of co-operative thinking, they endeavor to discover new avenues,
+through which they may reach and maintain, better physical, mental and
+spiritual conditions, which shall bring them into a more perfect
+harmony, with the laws of unfoldment which govern planetary evolution.
+The success, which has rewarded their efforts in this direction, has far
+exceeded, even the ambitious hopes of Gertrude Gerrish.</p>
+
+<p>"For the purpose of preserving a series of valuable records, for the
+benefit of this and coming generations; club members are urged to put in
+writing, such ideas as may come to them, as the result of individual
+thought, or from co-operative study, discussion and observation. These
+papers are carefully condensed, sifted, classified, and placed in proper
+record form, by the editing committee of the club. This committee, is
+also instructed to prepare short extracts, essays and descriptive
+articles relating to club work, for publication in the mothers' column
+of the Solaris Sentinel.</p>
+
+<p>"This outline sketch, my dear Fern, will give you some idea of the scope
+of the work, in which, I know you are greatly interested. In brief, it
+means a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[Pg 294]</a></span> practical illustration, of the use of scientific methods, for
+improving the race. The club hopes to give a satisfactory answer to the
+great question, of how to be well born. It will strive to convince the
+world, that the time has arrived, in which the twentieth century demands
+the immediate introduction of a scientific system, for the thorough
+breeding of children as a fine art. The art of all arts! The highest of
+all possible achievements!</p>
+
+<p>"Hitherto, the world's people, in trying to accumulate riches, or to
+escape the poorhouse, have had neither time nor inclination, to consider
+this most important of all questions. As a matter of fact, greed for
+gold has become so dominant, human life, so cheap, and its progress
+through culture, held in such low estimation; that it is not unusual,
+not even a matter of comment, to hear of a wealthy stockbreeder, who
+willingly pays from ten to twenty thousand dollars a year to the trainer
+of his horses; while he grudgingly pays five hundred dollars a year to
+the teacher of his children. This would indicate, that the demand for a
+change is imperative. The great wave of evolutionary progress, is fast
+rising to a flood tide! The selfish, commercial spirit, born of the
+competitive system, must soon give way for something better! The advent
+of a system of unselfish, co-operative farming, which proposes to unite
+a rational agriculture, with a scientific stirpiculture, offers
+opportunities for substantial progress, and a new hope for the coming race."</p>
+
+<p>"This is exceedingly interesting, Fillmore! What additional work, has
+Gertrude Gerrish planned for the club members?"</p>
+
+<p>"A great deal more than I have time to enumerate, just now! However, by
+the way of an illustration<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span> of her ingenious methods, and also, of the
+great variety of the topics introduced, all of which really belong to
+the work, as an integral part of the movement. I may mention the latest
+scheme introduced by Gertrude Gerrish, which proposes to increase the
+average length of human life, by giving to children as a birthright,
+well developed vital, physical, and mental organizations. This, she
+claims, is the only true ground work, for real progress in the right
+direction. The scheme has proved a popular one. It has so aroused the
+zeal and enthusiasm of the club members, that they write, think and talk
+on the subject, with an inspiration and eloquence quite surprising. As a
+result of the remarkable interest awakened, they have diligently read
+books on evolution, physiology, psychology, vital statistics, physical
+culture, and a great number, on the general subject of health. In this
+respect, the work of the club as a promoter of longevity, may well serve
+as an object lesson, for the hundred-year clubs, that have been
+organized during the past ten years, for the purpose of checking the
+alarming increase of suicide clubs.</p>
+
+<p>"Touching the question of suicide, as an enemy to longevity: In
+discussing the subject, many members of the club maintain, that it is an
+imperative duty for them to give the world a new cure for suicide. They
+would offer its would-be victims, such a tempting array of the meanings,
+purposes and opportunities, for gaining wisdom, which may crown every
+rightly conducted, harmoniously environed life; making it so busy, so
+absorbing, and so happy; that there would be no room, for the morbid
+hallucination of a suicidal desire. This proposition is based on the
+presumption, that all suicides are possessed with an<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a></span> insanely erroneous
+idea, regarding the true object and purpose of human life. After the
+passing of a few generations, under the wide-spread reign of
+co-operative stirpiculture, with its hosts of mothers' clubs, suicide
+will soon become an utter impossibility.</p>
+
+<p>"In the ever broadening scope, of progressive kindergarten training, our
+young mothers have wrought their most important work. A work, which
+reflects on the club, a great deal of well-earned credit. As centers of
+the first and second-year nursery groups, in their cargosita excursions
+around the great hall, for the purpose of sight, color and image
+training; the service rendered by these mothers, has proved invaluable.
+As teachers, assistants, directors and leaders, in the third and
+fourth-year groups, while engaged in exercises and games, which have
+been devised and instituted, for the purpose of sense training, science
+training, and science recreation; in addition to the ordinary
+kindergarten course; their excellent work, has justly excited the pride
+of the colony.</p>
+
+<p>"In conclusion, my dear Fern! I must tell you something about 'The club
+babies,' as they are proudly designated by the members. They are very
+bright and beautiful! In fact, they seem born with a consciousness, that
+it is their peculiar privilege, to commence the study of life as a fine
+art, at its very threshold. They are the zealously guarded treasures of
+the club, and the pride of the farm! They give a glorious promise, that
+they will prove worthy leaders, of a coming host of dominant thinkers,
+which are to be given to the world, by the mothers' clubs of the next
+quarter of a century.</p>
+
+<p>"As champions and exponents of the true object and purpose of human
+life, these thinkers will be<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span> armed with a wonderful potency, with which
+to overcome and conquer, the selfish reign of the competitive system. A
+cruel system, which has proved the very incarnation, of 'Man's
+inhumanity to man,' causing countless millions to mourn! In this great
+work, they will be inspired, by the high purpose of replacing its evil,
+poverty-breeding dominancy, by an unselfish, co-operative system, a
+union of spiritualizing, educative, stirpiculture and agriculture, which
+shall insure a higher civilization, and the perpetual reign of peace and
+plenty for all mankind."</p>
+
+<p>"What you have told to me so charmingly, Fillmore, is almost too good to
+be true! How eloquently, and how interestingly, you have described, the
+scope and work of this wonderful club, with its gifted leader! I hail
+the advent of this club, as one of the most important results, achieved
+by the Solaris Farm Company! I am delighted, with its thorough
+organization, broad plans, high aims, earnest work, and the remarkable
+enthusiasm, of its members! They represent a cause, which is dear to my heart!</p>
+
+<p>"The question, of how to be well born, is to my mind, the foremost
+question of the day! A question, which demands universal consideration!
+This twentieth century union, of agriculture and stirpiculture, this
+scientific, systematic, generation of the race as a fine art; which has
+been so well demonstrated, by the surprising work of these enthusiastic
+young mothers, is something to be proud of! The good, which must follow
+the work of this club, cannot now be estimated. The one hope, for the
+regeneration and final salvation of society, is centered in the mothers
+of the Republic! Nothing, is so well calculated to impress the
+importance of this<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a></span> grand truth, on the minds of the people, as the
+practical work of an ever increasing host of mothers' clubs.</p>
+
+<p>"In their devotion to the Republic, these mothers are patriots of the
+purest type! They have arisen to such spiritual heights, that they may
+fearlessly proclaim the law of motherhood, for the sons and daughters of
+the new Republic! They have demonstrated that this law declares, that a
+worthy mother of the new Republic, must be absolutely free! She must be
+free, religiously, mentally, socially, physically, and financially! Thus
+unshackled, she may be properly prepared, to bear a race of children who
+are endowed by birth, with the incarnate spirit and genius of true
+liberty. Such liberty, as shall become the talisman and watchword, of
+the model Republic of the twentieth century. A Republic of peers, of
+intellectual giants! The very flower of spiritual unfoldment! The
+highest order of civilization! Under the starry flag of such a
+government, neither slave, nor pauper, nor criminal, shall be found to
+cloud with shame, the fair escutcheon of true liberty!</p>
+
+<p>"I shall endeavor, before leaving Solaris, to meet with the members, by
+attending some session of the club. I shall then take pleasure in
+restating these ideas, as an expression of my appreciation of the great
+work for humanity, which they have so successfully inaugurated.</p>
+
+<p>"To Gertrude Gerrish, that noble woman, with such a magnificent talent,
+and so loyal a heart; who has won my deepest gratitude, my undying
+respect; I must pay the tribute of my admiration, by taking her lovingly
+to my heart, as a sister woman, whose wonderful ability, as a thinker,
+organizer, and leader, has made me proud of my sex."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXVI.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN THE CAPITAL AND LABOR PROBLEM.</h3>
+
+<p>"I am curious to know, to what extent co-operative farming will effect
+the capital and labor problem. What think you, Fillmore?"</p>
+
+<p>"No doubt the effect will be very marked. Many of the solutions arrived
+at in experimenting with the insurance question, will apply with equal
+force towards a final solution of the capital and labor problem. The
+toiler once having been taught the art of self-employment, that will
+furnish him superior conditions for a perfected healthful enjoyment of
+life, with all of the advantages for himself and his children that money
+can buy for the wealthy; can never again become the working slave of
+capital. He has learned, by a practical lesson, very similar to the
+famous 'Gurnsey Market House' exploit, that labor unaided by capital,
+can produce an abundance of things which go to make up the wealth of the
+nation, the community or the individual; while capital unaided by labor
+can produce nothing.</p>
+
+<p>"In searching for a remote cause for this ever growing warfare between
+capital and labor, which has so long vexed our Republic; and which, even
+now, threatens its final disintegration; we soon discover our arch
+enemy, the competitive system, as the party responsible for the
+mischief. This fact becomes more apparent, as we consider, that from the
+beginning of the historical period, people in a fierce struggle for
+existence, have been compelled by the competitive system, to wage a
+brutal, relentless<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a></span> warfare with each other. Always the stronger,
+against the weaker. In this wicked war, millions of human lives have
+been sacrificed to the fiery moloch of selfish greed.</p>
+
+<p>"The older the civilization the more fiercely has the war been waged;
+until to-day, thousands among the lower classes everywhere, dwarfed and
+embittered by a hopeless struggle to sustain life, in a ceaseless combat
+with competing foes on every hand; spurred to a frenzy of fury, curse
+the day which gave them birth. Why should they live only to suffer? With
+moral natures starved and withered, they declare that all justice is a
+mockery, all honesty, a myth! They have lost faith in God, and
+confidence in man! They care not for the needs of posterity, or for the
+nemesis of a future existence! In this desperate condition, they either
+commit suicide, or become an easy prey to the temptation, to join the
+outlaws in taking the world by the throat. From such material is formed
+the dregs of society, that lower social strata of living dynamite, that
+constant menace, which threatens in the near future, to destroy all
+civilization which rests upon it. This is a typical piece of the
+handiwork of the competitive system, a system in which the roots of
+society to-day are grounded.</p>
+
+<p>"Once seriously considered in this light, how can any sane person, who
+believes in an All-Wise Creator, in justice and mercy, in a common
+brotherhood for humanity, ever again defend the wickedness, of a society
+based on the selfish cruelty of such a system? What treatment may
+unorganized, unprotected labor, expect from this system?</p>
+
+<p>"Hitherto, fortunately for the progress of the world, the laborers of
+this Republic, have enjoyed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span> more of the advantages of life, than those
+of any other country. With better wages and shorter hours for work, they
+have been able to educate themselves and their children, to a degree
+that would fit them to become good citizens of the Republic. A republic
+which for its continued existence, depends on the integrity, ability and
+intelligence of its working units. As such, our laborers have proved
+themselves the best in the world. Now, alas! The whole industrial
+situation is changed by the swift dominancy of the competitive system,
+with its ever increasing brood of trusts, which have swallowed up all
+natural opportunities, and monopolized all the leading business
+enterprises, of this hitherto progressive nation.</p>
+
+<p>"The people of the Republic are divided into two classes; the employers,
+and the employed. The invention and introduction of new and expensive
+machinery each year, augments the power of the trusts, to control the
+markets and the industrial situation. By the same means and at the same
+time, they are fast reducing the number of employers, and increasing the
+number of those who must seek employment. Under such circumstances, each
+year the fate of the worker in any class, either skilled or unskilled,
+grows more desperate. He becomes more completely the slave of the trusts
+or capitalists who own the tools and who monopolize the industries. The
+larger the dependent family of the worker, the more abject the slavery,
+and the less his power to resist a constant reduction of wages.</p>
+
+<p>"In the efforts made by organized labor unions, to resist this tendency
+to reduce wages, we have both the cause and the beginning of the war
+between capital and labor. With a courage and patriotism worthy of the
+days of 'Seventy-Six,' this war has<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a></span> been waged by the toilers, with a
+determination to maintain rights guaranteed to them by the constitution
+of the Republic. A right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
+A right to labor and to enjoy the fruits of their labor, by having free
+access to a reasonable share of the natural advantages belonging to the public domain.</p>
+
+<p>"In this heroic struggle, so sturdily maintained during the past
+twenty-five years against the competitive system and its well trained
+hosts; the campaign, which has been marked by many mistakes, followed by
+frequent defeat and disastrous failure, has always proved successful as
+an educator, both for the toilers and the great middle classes, who
+sympathized with them. On the other hand, alarmed by sudden success,
+achieved by the disruption of long-lived business methods, and the loss
+of confidence in exchange values, on the part of the public in
+consequence of this disruption; the generals of the competitive system,
+aided with but few exceptions, by the press, university and pulpit, have
+shrewdly endeavored to evade responsibility, for the disastrous panics
+which have followed such revolutionary methods. These panics have left
+the country disturbed and embarrassed, by armies of unemployed men.</p>
+
+<p>"In the same line of tactics, these competitive leaders, have endeavored
+to confuse the question, and to mystify the people, by raising the cry
+of over-production! The inexorable law of supply and demand! The
+impossibility of our manufacturers longer competing in the markets of
+the world, against the cheap products of the pauper labor of Europe,
+while they are obliged by the unions, to pay such exorbitant wages here.
+This cry has grown more<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span> insistent, with each succeeding year.
+Nevertheless, the fact still remains, that but for the continuous
+opposition of the united labor organizations, long before this time, the
+wages paid in Europe, would govern the price of labor in this Republic.
+What then would have happened to our workers, the basic units of our
+government? Fortunately, the campaign of education still continues! The
+people at large are just beginning to wake up to the importance of the
+labor question! They have studied it carefully and earnestly. They have
+learned that in productive labor, muscular effort is a mental demonstration.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that the products of the skillfully educated,
+intelligent, refined, moral, self-respecting worker of this Republic,
+can successfully, compete with the inferior products, of a less
+intelligent or pauperized labor of any country, in any of the markets of
+the world. No matter how high the wages of the former, or how low the
+wages of the latter may be.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that the demand, in any market for a superior
+article, will always drive out the inferior.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that the question of the unemployed, is a question
+of the utmost importance, which demands the immediate attention of all
+patriots. They have learned, that the unemployed we shall have with us
+in ever increasing numbers, so long as the competitive system shall last.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that not one from the ranks of the unemployed, can
+again become a worker, without paying a handsome bonus for the
+privilege, by allowing some one to pocket the lion's share of the
+profits he may be able to earn.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a></span></p><p>"They have learned, that when society encourages conditions, which
+cause the laborer to look upon any calamity as a blessing in disguise,
+because it offers work for the unemployed; that society, must be reorganized.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that whenever an industrial system produces
+conditions, which make the laborer see only disaster for his individual
+interests, in every labor-saving invention which may be introduced; such
+a system, must be superseded by a better one.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that the competitive system, by the very nature and
+terms of its organization, obliges its followers to be selfish, cruel,
+heartless, unmanly and unpatriotic. They have learned, that its reign
+has become so dominant, that it justifies a recent writer of most
+excellent wit, who declares that 'Man by birth, education and training,
+has become so essentially selfish, that no preaching has any effect upon
+him, if it does not advise him to lay up treasures for himself somewhere.'</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that the dangers which most seriously threaten the
+perpetuity of our Republic, do not come from the clamor of dissatisfied
+laborers, who are wrongfully accused of law-breaking; but, that these
+dangers do come, from the lawlessness of capital, and the anarchy of corporations.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned that so far as the interests of the working units of
+the Republic are concerned, or care for its continued existence as a
+representative government; the press, the university, and the pulpit,
+have all been syndicated and censored by the competitive system to such
+an extent, that they can no longer be trusted to furnish teachers,
+leaders, and guides.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span></p><p>"They have learned, that the only safe course is, for the people to
+depend upon themselves, to develop and establish a new social and
+industrial order, from which shall spring a class of incorruptible
+leaders and statesmen, whose pure, unselfish motives, dominant, evenly
+developed minds, and superior ability, shall mark them as fitting rulers
+for a more perfect Republic. Such a Republic as shall meet the demands
+of a twentieth century progress.</p>
+
+<p>"They have learned, that the remedy indicated is a change to an
+industrial system, that will secure to the laborer an equitable share of
+the benefits, which follow the introduction of labor-saving machinery.
+Under such conditions, the laborer himself, having more leisure and
+unexpended vitality, will be stimulated to increase his available
+resources by cultivating his brain capacity for invention, thereby
+largely increasing his power to produce.</p>
+
+<p>"After many years, the rank and file of the workers in the labor unions,
+have learned, that self-employment is the key to the situation. Although
+late, they have learned, that if all the money wasted in unsuccessful
+strikes, had been invested in the purchase of choice locations,
+undeveloped mines and mineral lands, and in the erection of
+manufacturing plants, the labor question would now be a thing of the
+past. They would be masters of the situation, to whom the capitalists
+would be glad to offer such a liberal system of profit-sharing, as would
+practically make the workmen self-employed, by reason of a part
+ownership in the enterprise they labored to exploit.</p>
+
+<p>"Finally, and most important of all; they have learned that all
+manufacturing industries, naturally grow out of agriculture. That the
+success of one, is<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a></span> the measure, for the success of the other. That they
+must co-operate to such an extent, that a constant, healthy growth of
+both, may be maintained.</p>
+
+<p>"They have become convinced of the imperative necessity for this
+equable, co-operative, progress, by a careful study of the threatening
+conditions which obtain, in countries where agriculture has declined;
+and where manufacturing industries have become abnormally predominant.
+In such countries, the food supply at once becomes a question of daily,
+nay of hourly importance. It must be imported from distant lands,
+subject to the tax of insurance, import and export duties, freight
+charges, and commissions. Under such adverse conditions, available
+supplies for but a few days only, stand between the toiler and gaunt
+hunger. Any catastrophe which may happen to already congested lines of
+transportation, will precipitate a famine. Then prices would go up with
+a bound. The constant menace of such a possibility, always serves to
+keep food-prices above the natural level of a fair profit. On the other
+hand, in countries where progress in agriculture and manufacture goes
+hand in hand; a constantly increasing home market for manufactured
+products is steadily maintained. A most important consideration! At the
+same time, the industrial centers have the advantage of the immediate
+vicinity of abundant food supplies, which are not subject to the
+vicissitudes of traffic or transportation, or to the tax of much handling.</p>
+
+<p>"In considering these things, the minds of a great majority of the
+laboring people, have been prepared to accept the conclusion, that the
+great question of the hour is, how to open the way for every worthy
+worker to become his own employer. The <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span>co-operative farm opens the way.
+Therefore, it is to these self-educated toilers in the ranks of the
+labor organizations, that the manifest advantages of co-operative
+farming will appeal most successfully. If properly approached, a
+majority of them would be, not only willing but anxious for an
+opportunity to give this new system of co-operative agriculture a thorough trial.</p>
+
+<p>"Having once become practically interested, these people would soon
+learn to consider the object and purpose of life from a new standpoint.
+From this new concept of the meaning and necessities of life, they would
+perceive that it did not require the hoarding of much wealth, in order
+to satisfy them. The insurance system in providing for the wants of old
+age, would forever banish the haunting specter of a pauper's death in
+the poor-house. They would then realize that money, was not so precious
+as a human life! They would clearly understand that money was an
+absolute necessity, only to those under the competitive system who had
+lost confidence in each other, and faith in the fact of a common
+brotherhood for humanity!</p>
+
+<p>"They would soon respond to happier surroundings, in every way so
+conducive to a natural, soul growth, and to the harmonious unfoldment of
+the individual from within. In this unfoldment, a new meaning for
+immortality would come to them. Spiritual law would become operative. It
+would teach them that, as immortal beings, as cosmic units of the larger
+cosmos&mdash;The Great Over Soul&mdash;they could not become totally depraved,
+even under pressure of evil conditions of the most degrading character;
+no matter how much their spiritual natures had been stained or starved.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a></span></p><p>"With this new standard as a guide, there would come an inspiration to
+strive for the attainment of a higher, purer, better life. A life more
+in harmony with the design of an All-Wise Creator! Angry, antagonistic
+feelings, against hitherto competitors, would disappear. The world would
+wear a smile instead of a frown! Brotherly love between man and man,
+would become the rule in place of the exception! Gold would lose its
+charm! Avarice would pass away! Selfish instincts, born of bitter years
+under a cruel system would soon follow! Long dormant, spiritual natures
+would be awakened! A new spiritual growth would take place! A vastly
+wider, mental, and spiritual horizon, would be added to the wisdom of
+the individual! In the light of this wisdom would come the discovery,
+that the virtue of right living, bears the seeds of a perpetuity, which
+begets true and lasting happiness! An overwhelming answer in the
+affirmative, from every point of view, to the question, does it pay to be unselfish?</p>
+
+<p>"With higher ideals of life and its duties, these physically, mentally,
+and spiritually emancipated toilers, would find themselves prepared to
+co-operate most effectually, in establishing and maintaining any social
+and industrial evolution, which the best interests of the people and the
+Republic might demand.</p>
+
+<p>"From this presentation, my dear Fern! you may imagine how important and
+desirable it is, that these two powerful industrial forces should become
+harmoniously united in working for the interests of a natural
+progressive evolution. Against such an invincible combination, the hosts
+of the competitive system might not hope to prevail! Once thus united,
+each co-operative farm would then become the nucleus of a new industrial
+organization, capable<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span> of such unlimited expansion and perfection as the
+needs of surrounding communities might be able to sustain.</p>
+
+<p>"As this twin series of giant industries continued to grow and expand,
+the ways by which they might co-operate with mutual benefit, would
+continue to multiply. In political matters such a combination would
+prove remarkably strong; first in the township and county; later, in
+state and national legislatures, where it would soon be able to demand
+and push forward favorable legislation, and also to strangle much that
+might threaten to prove adverse. In such efforts, would come
+opportunities for introducing to the arena of public life, an abler,
+nobler, purer class of young men; who, born of a better social,
+industrial system, by reason of superior conditions for birth and
+training, would be properly endowed with that inspiring patriotism,
+sterling integrity, and commanding ability, so necessary to maintain the
+dominancy and perpetuity of the Republic, as a government of the people,
+for the people and by the people."</p>
+
+<p>"Bravo! Well done Fillmore! Your statement of the subject is grand,
+indeed! The eloquent summing up, forms a fitting climax in answer to my
+last question, the closing one of the series. But, as much as I admire
+and appreciate its general excellence, you must allow me to suggest one
+criticism. Do you not think Fillmore, that you put the case rather too
+strongly, when you place the press, the university and the pulpit, so
+completely under the control of trusts, or the leaders of the
+competitive system? Would they dare to do such a thing?"</p>
+
+<p>"Bless you my dear girl! They are capable of doing anything! So far as
+the trusts and the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a></span>competitive system are concerned, I have stated the
+case very mildly. Not one-half of the story has been told. Let us probe
+this question a little deeper.</p>
+
+<p>"What is a trust? It is the highest form of monopoly. It is a nest of
+corporations, laid and hatched by the competitive system! It has neither
+conscience to hold it in check, nor soul to be damned! It dares to do
+anything! Indeed! It is formed for the sole purpose of making money.
+Nothing is allowed to stand in the way. Born of the consolidating
+pressure, which marks the competitive system, it seeks to monopolize all
+of the advantages of that cruel system, without incurring its penalties.
+Once thoroughly organized, and armed with the almost unlimited power of
+its enormous capital; the trust immediately commences the wholesale
+destruction of all opposing industries or interests. In pushing this
+work, it regards neither the equities of commercial law, nor the vested
+rights of others. Securely protected by its monopoly, this modern
+juggernaut in the commercial world, rolls remorselessly onward toward
+its goal of wealth. It cares not for the safety of worshippers, friends
+or foes. If by chance they represent competing interests, they must
+either leave the field or be crushed. There is no alternative! There is no escape!</p>
+
+<p>"A few of the leading trusts, those most completely representing the
+competitive system, have recently become so defiant, so audaciously
+bold, that they are prepared to undertake, to consolidate the business
+of the whole earth. They will stick at nothing! They have the gorge to
+swallow one government or ten! It matters little to them! Like the ring
+of conspirators, in Donnelley's 'Ceaser's Column,' a few of the leading
+spirits, of these <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span>daring trusts, are secretly plotting in Gotham! Just
+at present, they have their eyes fixed on the all-powerful money
+question. The vision seems a pleasing one!</p>
+
+<p>"What is that question, which so completely absorbs the attention of
+these people? Can it be possible, that the mills of the competitive
+system will grind up rich bankers, as unconcernedly as they do the
+helpless poor! They surely will! The plot grows and thickens! Let us
+give it close attention. Let us watch these people. Keeping in mind
+meanwhile, that hitherto, the bankers of the country, have complacently
+considered themselves masters and kings of the financial situation,
+whose thrones were secure for all time. Strongly intrenched behind
+well-filled money bags, they have felt themselves safe in helping the
+trusts to fleece the public. Now they are becoming alarmed. They are
+shaking in their fifteen-dollar boots! They behold that dreadful
+handwriting on the wall! In giant letters, seemingly towering forty feet
+tall, these bankers read the doom, which the trust conspirators are now
+preparing for them. They catch the frightful significance of the
+question, which the trust leaders are discussing. It is this. Why should
+the business of the United States, support such an army of banks? More
+than ten thousand. We know very well, that the entire money transactions
+of this country, could be handled more safely, more swiftly, and more
+cheaply, by one grand central institution. With one voice the
+conspirators exclaim! Let us form a pool! Let us consolidate the whole
+business, into one magnificent money trust! Let us select, say
+twenty-five, of the brainiest bankers in the business! Let us give them
+fat salaries, and make them <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a></span>superintendents of the financial agencies,
+now called banks. Counting the whole number of banks, both public and
+private, as ten thousand, with three professional bankers to each one,
+the result would be a total of thirty thousand bankers. Of this number,
+we could reduce twenty-nine thousand, nine hundred and seventy-five, to
+the station of bank clerks. Let us pause for a moment to contemplate the
+result! What enormous savings would accrue, by the introduction of such
+a wholesale scheme of consolidation! These savings would be ours!
+Intoxicated with the brilliancy and the hugeness of the idea; the
+conspirators with one impulse, spring to their feet, with outstretched
+hands they form a ring, they execute a round dance extraordinary. While
+thus engaged, they gaily shout, 'There is millions in it for us!'</p>
+
+<p>"No wonder the bankers are alarmed! With the exercise of one-half of
+their usual cunning and foresight, they should have scented the danger
+sooner. No doubt, they were so engrossed by the fascinating game of
+money grabbing, that they were wholly blind to danger, as the result of
+the combined audacity and perfidy of their former partners. They have
+evidently failed to learn one plain lesson, which is taught by the logic
+of events. It is this. When once fairly started, the process of the
+larger corporation, swallowing the lesser, goes forward with such an
+ever-increasing rate of speed, that it soon overtakes and gobbles up
+banks and bankers.</p>
+
+<p>"At this point, it is pertinent to propound the following questions: If
+this is a Republic? If the people are the government, and the government
+is the people? And if the consolidating business, is so good and so
+profitable for the trusts? Why, should not the government, own and run
+this giant<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[Pg 313]</a></span> central bank? Why, should it not own and operate the
+railroads, the canals, the shipping, the mines, the forests, and all
+other industries? This would give the people a chance to share equally,
+in the enjoyment of these enormous profits. Why not?</p>
+
+<p>"What say you my dear Fern! Would it not be infinitely better, than to
+allow the government to be swallowed by one monster trust?"</p>
+
+<p>"Better Fillmore! Far better! I am convinced! I withdraw my criticism.
+You have maintained your point so vigorously, that I have not the
+courage, to offer one single word in reply. I am ready and willing, to
+consider the discussion as finally closed."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXVII.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM TRIUMPHANT.</h3>
+
+<p>The beginning of the second decade of the twentieth century, saw the
+final triumph of the co-operative farm at Solaris. The five years of
+trial and probation, have swiftly passed into history. The labors of the
+colony, have been crowned with a rich harvest of success. A great work
+for humanity, has been accomplished. A grand lesson in the economics of
+unselfish co-operation, has been demonstrated. A kaleidoscope of new
+charms, of fresh beauty, of an infinite variety of change, of unexpected
+opportunities, of a host of new expressions, in the possibilities of
+social and industrial life; the culmination of untried methods, new
+hopes and new aspirations; have marked this victorious climax. All have
+contributed, to the happiness of the contented villagers<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[Pg 314]</a></span> at Solaris;
+filling their hearts with brighter hopes for the future.</p>
+
+<p>A new era in agriculture has dawned. With it has come, a new order of
+life for farm people. The links of social life, have become more firmly
+knit. New chains of enthusiastic interest, in the humanitarian work
+represented by the farm, have been forged by the binding associations of
+passing years. Ethical, industrial and spiritual life, has been
+unfolded, in harmony with the law of progressive planetary evolution.</p>
+
+<p>As an illustration of the perfected possibilities of rural life, this
+suggestive and pleasing picture is well nigh complete. Verily! Virtue
+has been richly rewarded, by the pure pleasure of right living! To the
+truths of these things, the lives of the unselfish co-operators at
+Solaris, bear most abundant and convincing testimony. Happiness and
+contentment, reign supreme! Social solutions, offer new fields of
+pleasure to a generous, progressive people, who are daily becoming
+better educated, more dominant as thinkers, more unselfish in all
+things, therefore, more virtuous.</p>
+
+<p>In passing from the experimental, to a more perfect stage of
+co-operative life, a marvelous change for the better is noted. New
+factories have been built, new industries instituted, and organized. The
+busy hum of industrial prosperity, everywhere claims attention.
+Meanwhile, the demands for a better esthetic culture, have not been
+neglected. The interiors of both factory and workshop, have been made
+additionally attractive, by a more artistic, educative class of
+decorations. All industrial buildings, are surrounded by well-kept lawns.</p>
+
+<p>Many handsome cottages, showing a great variety<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span> of beautiful designs,
+cosey, vine-clad and picturesque, environed by gardens and lawns, have
+been added to the architectural display of the village. Order, symmetry
+and cleanliness, have become the established law of the farm.</p>
+
+<p>Barns, stables, stock yards, pig pens and poultry yards, have been
+placed at a safe distance from the village. In the erection of these
+necessary buildings, care has been taken, to provide for the removal and
+sanitary dry storage, of the daily accumulation of valuable manures.
+Especially designed machinery, accomplishes this otherwise unpleasant
+task, quickly and easily. By this convenient arrangement, with a very
+little labor, these buildings, and the stock housed in them, can at all
+times, be kept healthy and clean. A most important consideration!</p>
+
+<p>Everywhere, appear evidences, of the farms increasing wealth in live
+stock. Great herds of fine cattle, are fattening in the fields, pastures
+and barns. Prize collections of choice sheep, are roaming over grassy
+slopes. Fine droves of well grown, healthy swine, in assorted lots, are
+contentedly feeding in small fields of fresh clover. The large drove of
+beautiful, highly bred horses, is a very valuable one. The poultry
+yards, are filled with many varieties of fine fowls. All show the
+effects of careful attention, from the hands of care takers, who are
+both kind and skillful.</p>
+
+<p>On the opposite side of the village, near the nursery, the numerous fish
+ponds are located. Flower bordered, island studded, and tree margined,
+with surfaces dotted here and there, by tiny fleets of graceful,
+shell-like pleasure boats. They add much to the rare beauty of this
+pastoral picture. Beneath<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a></span> the rippling surface of the clear water, in
+these miniature lakes, flash the shining scales of a swarming host, of
+the most delicious of food fishes.</p>
+
+<p>Fragrant, purple and gold, the heavily laden vineyards, are growing and
+glowing in the bright sunlight. They give promise of an early generous
+fruitage. Thrifty orchards of healthy well-grown fruit trees, including
+many varieties, are fast coming to maturity. Waving fields of golden
+grain, ripple in the simmering heat of a noon-day sun, or rustle and
+billow with each passing breeze, under the pale light of a harvest moon.
+Beautiful fields of cotton and corn, are an inspiration to behold. Fine
+fields of vegetables, nurseries, gardens and shrubberies, with a wealth
+of lovely flower plots, all add to the charm of the general effect.</p>
+
+<p>The extension of the co-operative system, to embrace the second farm,
+has been well started. Fenwick Farm, is the name chosen for this farm
+number two, of the series. Two years of intelligent, well-directed work,
+by its wide awake, industrious people, have shown surprising results!
+They are constantly inspired to do better work by the hope of being able
+to reach a degree of success, equal to that achieved by Solaris. In this
+respect, the spirit of healthy rivalry, which has arisen, gives them an
+advantage, which the parent colony did not have. The success already
+attained by Fenwick Farm, has attracted widespread attention, in the
+surrounding communities. The effect for the good of the county, and of
+its people, socially, politically and financially, has been quite
+remarkable. The tax payers of the county, are delighted! They have been
+completely won over, to the side of co-operative farming, by the force
+of this second example.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span></p><p>One of the greatest gains, which has arisen from co-operative effort
+for mutual benefit, between the two colonies, has been practically
+illustrated, in the great work of road building. These two co-operative
+farm villages, are now connected by a broad, smooth, well graded road.
+This road, ten miles in length, is margined by a wide strip of
+beautifully kept parking. Five miles of this parking, on either side of
+this magnificent boulevard, become the especial care, of each village.
+No city in the union, could display better taste, or greater pride, in
+keeping these beautiful parks, in the most perfect condition.</p>
+
+<p>In order to keep the park lawns, foliage and flowers, always looking
+clean and bright, it becomes necessary to keep this road free from dust.
+For this purpose, the entire road surface, is given a frequent
+sprinkling with petroleum. After each sprinkling, the enormous pressure
+of an hundred-ton roller, soon converts the layer of moistened dust,
+into a hard, smooth mass of oily rock. This process is repeated until a
+thick, heavy, durable surface of water-proof rock, is secured. This
+makes an ideal road! The hard, well pounded, gravelly soil, below, gives
+a permanent foundation, because it is so well protected against
+moisture, by this broad, indestructible roof of oily rock. The wide,
+slightly rounded surface of the road, sheds water like a duck's back.
+Consequently, it is always free from mud and dust. The broad rubber
+tires of a great variety of freight motors, pleasure mobiles and motor
+cycles, do not wear its perfect surface. The very acme of pleasure is
+reached, in riding over such a delightful road!</p>
+
+<p>After work hours have passed, the pleasure seekers from both villages,
+in merry congenial parties<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a></span> are awheel, enjoying to the utmost, the
+pure, sweet, flower-perfumed air, together with the soothing, restful
+beauty of a park lined drive, of such extent and variety, as a
+multi-millionaire, might not be able to command. Could anything more
+delightful be imagined! Is it any wonder, that people from adjoining
+counties, thirty miles away, come in droves, to enjoy a ride over this
+now famous road! In the hearts of all comers, is stirred the imitative
+spirit of rivalry. They return to their homes, determined to co-operate
+with their neighbors, at least to an extent that will enable them to
+build such roads for themselves. They are convinced, that the excellence
+of its roads, in any community, is the only sure test, which will
+indicate the exact degree of civilization, attained by its people.</p>
+
+<p>At the village of Solaris, the universal use of Solaris brick, of the
+various patterns and sizes, has proved an important factor in the
+construction of sidewalks, store houses, industrial buildings, cottages,
+the hotel, the schools and the theatre. The visitor is at once impressed
+by the wholesome, attractive, substantial appearance, given to the town
+by the use of this excellent and durable brick. In this respect, the
+square mosaic bricks, of unique design, used in laying the broad
+sidewalks, twenty feet in width, which border Railroad Avenue, the
+street leading straight from the public square, to the railroad station,
+create an effect so marked that it never fails to attract attention and
+admiration. The symmetrical trees and well-kept parking which line this
+avenue, serve to enhance the pleasing effect.</p>
+
+<p>The artistic skill acquired by the people of Solaris, in the making and
+laying of this new style of brick, adds another important advantage, to
+the long list<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span> offered by co-operative methods. In color, thickness,
+sanitary shapes, variety of designs, fire-proof qualities, polished
+smoothness and durability, these bricks recommend themselves to the
+favor of the general public, wherever they go. Without any effort in the
+line of advertising, the general demand for them has continued to
+increase, until brick-making has become the leading lucrative industry on the farm.</p>
+
+<p>Among the new buildings at Solaris, most worthy of mention, are the
+theatre, and the two large school buildings, on either side of it. These
+structures, are by far the finest ones in the village. The affectionate
+pride they excite in the hearts of the villagers, is well deserved.
+Centrally located, on the east side of the public square, this
+triumvirate of noble buildings, claims the admiration of the beholder,
+from any point of view on the open square. The front walls are
+beautifully ornamented, in harmony with an architectural design, which
+is considered by critics, as exceedingly artistic. Inside, they have
+been constructed, finished, fitted and furnished, in accordance with a
+design, that will afford to the villagers, the highest order of
+education and amusement.</p>
+
+<p>The theatre is two hundred feet long, and seventy-five feet wide. The
+schools, are each one hundred and seventy-five feet in length, by forty
+feet in width. They are separated from the theatre, by twenty feet of
+space. A roomy covered way from the rear, connects them with that
+building. In construction, care has been taken, to secure perfect light and ventilation.</p>
+
+<p>The school on the left, is for pupils who enter the primary, and the
+first, second and third, intermediate<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a></span> classes. The one on the right, is
+for students, who may be promoted to the first, second and third, high
+schools. The seating capacity of each one, is ample for three hundred
+children. The decorations of the walls and ceilings are, to a remarkable
+degree, both educative and ornamental. The equipment of school
+furniture, such as seats, desks, dictionaries, text books, globes and
+outline maps; drawing-boards, blackboards and laboratory outfit; glass
+cases, for collections of geological specimens and minerals; life size,
+physiology models and charts; together, with a complete series of charts
+for the other sciences; is the best that could be designed or procured.</p>
+
+<p>The theatre, is a very important part of the educative system.
+Fortunately, the acoustic properties, are remarkably fine! The entire
+interior, including the high ceiling, is decorated with such boldly
+beautiful designs, that they never fail to gratify the artistic sense of
+the beholder. At night, the charming effect of these embellishments, is
+intensified, by the use of a great number of brilliantly colored
+electric lights; which are skillfully grouped and interwoven, as a part
+of the general decorative plan. The wide seats, are designed for ease
+and comfort. They are richly and durably upholstered, with dark-brown,
+polished leather. The seating capacity of this cosey little theatre, is twenty-five hundred.</p>
+
+<p>The colonists have found this histrionic temple, very useful. It is an
+ideal place for farm and village festivals; and for all kinds of
+entertainments; such as orations, school exhibitions, graduation
+exercises, vocal and instrumental concerts and dramas; lectures, operas
+and every class of theatricals. It is<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span> also, equally useful and fitting,
+for stereopticon and biograph exhibits, of the astronomy, geology,
+botany, natural history, microscopical, and photographic clubs.</p>
+
+<p>The large, well equipped stage and dressing rooms, offer a permanent,
+desirable home, for the musical, choral and dramatic clubs. At intervals
+of three months, four weeks in each year; excellent professional troups
+occupy the stage; presenting a fine variety, of wholesome dramas and
+operas. In this way, the stage of this farm theatre, is made to
+represent and reflect, the passing progress of the dramatic and operatic
+world. During the intervals between these star-company weeks, the
+home-talent club, presents regular, tri-weekly performances, under the
+supervision of a skillful director. The remaining nights are as a rule,
+pretty well utilized by the numerous local entertainments, before mentioned.</p>
+
+<p>This brief sketch of the generous provision, made for the education and
+amusement of the people of Solaris, will, in connection with the nursery
+and kindergarten, hereafter to be described, show what the co-operative
+farm can do, when it undertakes to give to its people a class of
+educational training and amusement, which in many respects, is superior
+to the best that money can buy for the wealthy. It will also
+demonstrate, what can be accomplished, when the farm determines to
+produce, and to fittingly educate and train, a superior class of
+children, as the most important part of the legitimate work of a
+co-operative farm. The highest expression of agriculture! The culture of
+children as a fine art! The production of such children, as will make
+ideal citizens for a perfect Republic!</p>
+
+<p>The practical class in farm chemistry, only twelve<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a></span> in number, is an
+organization made up by a careful selection from the brightest minds and
+best thinkers in the colony. Under the leadership of Fillmore Flagg, it
+has accomplished some excellent experimental work. It has been able to
+add several valuable allied industries to the resources of the farm, in
+addition to those already described.</p>
+
+<p>In breaking ground for opening the new mica and zinc mines, a great
+quantity of peculiar clay was discovered. This clay was of a very fine
+quality, entirely free from sand, gravel or other impurities. Yet,
+strangely enough, it would not make good china, porcelain, or pottery!
+There was a greasy smoothness of feeling possessed by this clay, which
+suggested its name, tallow clay. After considerable exposure to the air,
+it would crack and slack until finally dissolved into a fine powder. The
+class was puzzled. The members were on their mettle! The more they
+worked with this curious clay and failed, the more they became
+interested and determined to persevere, until some discovery should
+reward them. The greasy quality of the clay, suggested soap-stone. Now,
+the class members had long wished for some material out of which they
+could manufacture a first-class quality of artificial soap-stone. This
+tallow clay promised good results, if they could only eliminate the few
+constituents, which were not present in the real soap-stone. The weeks
+of careful research spent in this eliminating process, finally crowned
+the efforts of the class with a complete success. The result, was an
+artificial soap-stone of excellent quality. Even, when molded in thin
+plates, it would withstand exposure to intense heat for long periods of
+time, without warping or shrinking. It soon became evident, that it
+could be<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span> made more useful and more valuable, than real soap-stone.</p>
+
+<p>After some weeks of experimental work, in various processes of
+manufacture, the right method was reached. Fillmore Flagg was convinced,
+that thousands of tons of this product, yielding a large profit, could
+be placed on the market much cheaper than the best quality of fire
+brick. For a great number of uses in the industrial arts, and for
+chemical furnaces, ore-roasting ovens, furnace linings, stove linings
+and even stoves, it would prove immeasurably superior. The popular
+demand for this new soap-stone, soon sustained the judgment of Fillmore
+Flagg. This demand continued to increase until the new industry, became
+one of the most profitable on the farm.</p>
+
+<p>After the first success, the class in farm chemistry, in search of
+another prize, returned with renewed vigor, to attack the tallow clay.
+In working over the formidable heap of tailings, which had accumulated
+from the soap-stone experiments, the second prize was quickly found. It
+proved even more important than the first! This mass of rejected clay
+was found to be exceedingly rich in aluminum. Better still! It was just
+in the proper condition, to be most cheaply and easily extracted! It was
+a great find! The class members were crowned with laurels! Of course,
+they were jubilant. But they were not puffed up with pride! That, was
+not their style!</p>
+
+<p>During the fifth year of the reign of the co-operative farm at Solaris,
+the following mining industries, were added to its resources. Valuable
+mines of mica, lead and zinc, were opened and successfully worked.
+Electric car lines, connected these mines<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a></span> with the freight depot at
+Solaris Station. There, the lead and zinc, high grade ores, found a
+ready market at good prices. The mica was prepared for use at Solaris.
+It was then sold at a fine profit, in connection with orders for soap-stone.</p>
+
+<p>For two years, the canning factory, had furnished another avenue for
+profitably marketing large crops of sweet-corn, green peas, asparagus,
+tomatoes, peaches, and many kinds of perishable fruits and berries.</p>
+
+<p>The demand for Solaris Vegetable Concentrates, and for Solaris Mixture
+Concentrates, has more than doubled. The same is true of the Solaris
+breakfast foods, and of the material for delicious breakfast dishes,
+prepared from mixtures of parched, sweet, and pop-corn.</p>
+
+<p>The vineyards and the quince, peach, plum and cherry orchards, have
+reached the stage of full bearing. Improved methods, careful culture and
+the constant use of better chemical agents, for the destruction of
+insect enemies, have made the heavy crops of fruits from these vineyards
+and orchards, even more desirable and more salable than ever before. The
+farm income from grapes and quinces alone amounting to over one hundred
+thousand dollars per annum.</p>
+
+<p>The quantity of jellies, jams, preserves and marmalades, made from small
+fruits, has more than doubled. The excellence of quality, and
+established reputation for absolute purity, has rapidly increased the
+demand for them at fancy prices.</p>
+
+<p>Altogether, the rapid and continuous growth of the farm income, from its
+allied agricultural and manufacturing industries, has largely increased
+the wages of the co-operators. The purchases at the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[Pg 325]</a></span> store have been
+correspondingly augmented. The sale of goods by the store, to
+surrounding communities, has been greatly extended. The result has been
+a constantly increasing volume of the seven and one-half per cent
+profits, steadily pouring into the insurance fund. Both the general
+service fund and the fund for purposes of education and amusement, have
+been equally benefited. Fifty thousand dollars, have been added to the
+stock of goods, in the store. The store building, has been enlarged and
+improved. A large hotel for the accommodation of the constantly
+increasing number of visitors, has been erected and equipped. At all
+times, plenty of money has been at hand, with which to push forward all
+necessary farm or village improvements. The fame of such general
+prosperity, has gone abroad, in the land; placing the financial standing
+of the Solaris Farm Company, on a firm basis with the commercial world.</p>
+
+<p>Five years of co-operative work, have convinced the people of Solaris,
+that successful agriculture, demands the determined effort, the best
+thought, the scientific work and the combined energy of a well organized
+force of earnest, unselfish, steadfast workers. They are very
+enthusiastic over the wonderful results achieved. Freed from the
+shackles and sins of a selfish life, they bear the unmistakable stamp of
+progress, socially, industrially, intellectually and ethically. Having
+cast aside the burden of care and worry about the future, both for
+themselves and their children, they have had a chance to grow and expand
+in the real sunshine of life. They have become dignified, self-poised,
+well dressed, educated, refined, cultured and polished men and women.
+Good citizens, of which, any commonwealth might well be<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[Pg 326]</a></span> proud! Vitally,
+and vastly more important! They have become dominant thinkers, who are
+capable of wisely and unselfishly, thinking and planning for the benefit of the Republic!</p>
+
+<p>In the remarkable success achieved by Solaris Farm, our hero, Fillmore
+Flagg, has realized his highest ambition, his brightest hopes. Relieved
+from further responsibility, as general manager, by the last annual
+election of the Solaris Farm Company, he has had an opportunity to turn
+his attention to organizing companies, for the eight remaining farm
+sites. In this work, he has had valuable assistance from the officers
+and members of the company. With a view of making Solaris the present
+headquarters of the general movement; acting on advice of Fillmore
+Flagg, the Solaris Farm Company, has amended its charter, to increase
+the membership of the company to one thousand; doubling the capital
+stock. Five thousand acres of adjoining lands have been secured, the
+farmers from whom they were purchased, coming into the company as
+stock-holders. This course seemed necessary and wise, in order to
+properly balance the growing industrial and commercial importance of
+Solaris. With such a large increase in the number of co-operators, a
+surplus of capable young men and women, would be available, from which
+to select volunteers, as the nucleus of a corps of experienced officers
+for the newly organized farm companies. In this way, Solaris, as the
+parent farm, would become very important as the training school, for
+teachers that were to supply the wants of such new farms as might grow
+out of the general movement.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[Pg 327]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE KINDERGARTEN AT SOLARIS.</h3>
+
+<p>Among the important buildings at Solaris, we must consider the large,
+well appointed nursery, kindergarten and mothers' club combined. The
+mothers' club occupying a handsome wing to the main building. Located
+just in the rear of the long row of palace homes, and connected with
+them by a long, wide, many-windowed hall, it has proved admirably
+adapted to the purpose for which it was built. This beautiful structure,
+is environed by a lovely lawn, charmingly variegated with flowers and
+shrubbery. It is surrounded on three sides, by a wide, low veranda, only
+one step above the lawn. This veranda, except where a broad step
+connects it with the lawn, is shut in by a tall balustrade. By this
+means unguarded children are prevented from falling. A broad,
+overhanging roof, of picturesque design, covers the entire building.
+From the interior, many windows coming down to the floor, open on to the veranda.</p>
+
+<p>The entire floor space, the full size of the main building, sixty by two
+hundred feet, is unobstructed by a partition. That portion devoted to
+the nursery, is only separated from the kindergarten by a low
+balustrade. A large skylight, in the central roof, floods this
+extraordinary room with an abundance of light. Screens of thin, white,
+silky cloth are so arranged, that this light may be regulated and
+softened to any desired extent. The lofty ceiling is arched, groined and
+decorated, very like a cathedral. The high walls are modestly tinted a
+pale<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[Pg 328]</a></span> green. A broad, beautifully designed, exquisitely colored border,
+in perfect harmony with the splendor of the ceiling, runs uniformly
+around the upper walls of this delightful room, adding immensely to the
+general artistic effect.</p>
+
+<p>One peculiarity in connection with the floor, marks a wide departure
+from the ordinary arrangements of a nursery or kindergarten school. Six
+feet distant from the washboard, a depressed railway track, equipped
+with long platform cars, ten feet in width, having their surfaces just
+level with the main floor, describes a circuit of the room. Except at
+the places of entrance or exit, this circular train or section of floor
+on wheels, is guarded on either side by a low railing. These railings
+also extend across the cars, far enough from the ends to allow a four
+foot passage between each one. In material and finish, the floor of the
+train is uniform with that of the room. The railings are all of polished
+oak. Two cute little gates on each car open to the passage way at the ends.</p>
+
+<p>The machinery which propels this exaggerated perambulator, is run by
+electric power. It is so adjusted, as to be perfectly under the control
+of the nurses and teachers in charge of the room. The iron frames from
+which fifty swinging cribs are hung, occupy considerable space on
+several cars. These cribs are for the exclusive use of infants, too
+young or too weak to sit up. The remaining space on the cars of this
+infantile merry-go-round, which the mothers' club members have named the
+Cargosita, is furnished with a remarkable variety of single and double
+seats, made low enough to be comfortable for children from eight to
+thirty months old. These seats are as artistic as they are unique! They
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[Pg 329]</a></span>represent on a small scale, ostriches, swans, geese, dogs, goats,
+horses, mules, zebras, camels, elephants, tigers, and lions; wagons,
+phaetons, cycles, cars and a great variety of pleasure boats. The
+seating capacity of the cargosita is about three hundred, the number of
+children in the nursery and kindergarten, who are under four years of
+age. Older children become inmates of the regular schools.</p>
+
+<p>The cargosita, when ornamented with a profusion of silk flags,
+resplendent with gaily colored ribbon streamers, handsome mats and a
+choice collection of small potted plants, palms and flowers; becomes a
+thing of beauty, well calculated to capture and fascinate the childish
+heart. When the train is in motion, gaily spinning around this
+five-hundred-foot oval; the cribs and seats filled with bright happy
+children, smiling and crowing, their chubby little hands clapping in
+unison with the measure of such exquisite music as is discoursed by a
+giant orchestrion, or the electric piano, the vision becomes the
+loveliest and most inspiring one of a life time!</p>
+
+<p>When we consider the cargosita as an instrument for education, we find
+that it is even more potent as such, than as a thing for amusement. For
+the purpose of educating the senses, thus laying a sure foundation, for
+a broad, healthy, harmonious, development of the mind, it is invaluable!</p>
+
+<p>A child is the repository of infinite possibilities! Education, is the
+process of unfolding these possibilities, in harmony with natural law.
+To discover, and to apply this law, is the important work of the educator!</p>
+
+<p>To Prof. Elmer Gates, and to his remarkable discoveries in Psychology
+and Psychurgy, the modern educator owes a heavy debt of gratitude! From
+the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[Pg 330]</a></span> teachings of Prof. Gates, we deduce; that in brain building, that
+primary step in education, psychologic functioning creates organic
+structure, and that organic structure is a manifestation in the
+concrete, of the activities of the mind. In other words, that planted,
+watered and nourished, by the emotions of the individual, the thoughts,
+ideas, concepts and images which arise, create a corresponding growth of
+cell structure in the brain. That these brain cells become the working
+tools of the mind.</p>
+
+<p>It follows then, that we cannot have thoughts, without first having
+sensations to form images and concepts, the soil out of which all
+thoughts naturally grow. Therefore, if in a practical way, all
+possibilities in the way of sensations, which may come through the
+avenue of each one of the child's senses, are fully developed; a sure
+foundation has been laid, for the largest possible development of brain
+and the corresponding growth of thought.</p>
+
+<p>In the natural order of the growth of thought, nature prescribes the
+following sequence: A union of sensations, produces images; a grouping
+of images, produces concepts; a relationing of concepts, produces ideas;
+a generalizing of ideas, produces thoughts of the first order; a
+generalization of thoughts of the first order, produces thoughts of the
+second order: a still wider generalization of thoughts of the second
+order, produces thoughts of the third order; progressing in like manner,
+to the highest ladder of the mental scale.</p>
+
+<p>In considering this order, we observe that sensations, form the base of
+the educational pyramid. All knowledge which comes to the ego, the seat
+of consciousness, must come through sensations produced by contact with
+material things in the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[Pg 331]</a></span>domain of nature. Hence, as a primary step in
+educational work, a careful training of the senses, becomes a matter of
+the greatest importance. This training cannot be commenced, without
+first ascertaining what these senses are, and the natural order of their evolution.</p>
+
+<p>Commencing with the lowest, we have muscle feelings, or the sense of
+musculation; the sense of touch, the sense of pressure, the sense of
+warmth, the sense of cold, the sense of smell, the sense of taste, the
+sense of hearing and the sense of seeing. Altogether, we have nine
+important avenues, through which the inner man may gain a correct
+knowledge of the outer world.</p>
+
+<p>Professor Gates has discovered a system of sense training, which may be
+successfully applied to kindergarten children. In application, only a
+few minutes daily practice by each child, is required. By this training,
+in extending the upper and lower thresholds of sensation, the capacity
+of each sense, may be doubled from five to eight times. To the
+inexperienced, this proposition is so stupendous, that it seems almost
+unthinkable! However, we may state parenthetically, that an application
+of this system, to children in the Solaris kindergarten, has shown such
+marvelous results, that its efficacy and excellence have been well
+established. It has proved fully equal to the demands of twentieth century progress!</p>
+
+<p>Turning again to the teachings of Prof. Gates, we learn that mind is the
+key-stone and the arch of life, the all-containing attribute, which
+combines all forms of its expression: that to properly cultivate the
+mind, is to extend the scope and usefulness of life. Hence, that in
+choosing a system of education, which<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[Pg 332]</a></span> will be in harmony with planetary
+evolution, therefore, the easiest and most natural. We must never lose
+sight of one great, central, primal fact. It is this. The mind of the
+child, which is to be unfolded, is the production of the cosmic
+universe; therefore, cannot be in fundamental antagonism with it. It
+follows, then, that if children gather their sensations, images,
+concepts, ideas, and thoughts, directly from the phenomena of that
+universe, they will acquire a kind of knowledge, so real, so superior,
+that it will stand the test of an eternity. It is actual knowledge!
+There is no theory, no speculation, no guesswork about it!</p>
+
+<p>The sciences, are facts regarding the phenomena of the universe,
+classified and arranged in an orderly manner. All facts of every kind,
+naturally fall into the domain of some one of the sciences.</p>
+
+<p>Man, as the highest expression of the planet, in his three-fold nature,
+becomes the gleaner, the classifier, and the repository of these facts.
+A beautiful exposition of the clever handiwork, of the law of action and
+re-action. As a cosmic unit of the larger cosmos, the more perfect his
+knowledge of the universe, the more complete, is his store of knowledge
+in relation to himself.</p>
+
+<p>Children, in order to become properly equipped students, must, when
+ready to take up the sciences, be prepared to determine what the actual
+sensations are, out of which the different possible images of the
+sciences are composed. To achieve the most thorough education possible,
+they must know the actual number of concepts in each science, and
+precisely the images out of which they have arisen! They will then be
+prepared, to collect and classify, the mentative data of the sciences.
+That is, they will<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[Pg 333]</a></span> be able to determine for themselves, experimentally,
+the sensations, images, concepts, ideas and thoughts, which belong to each one.</p>
+
+<p>Practice in this useful training, will lead the pupil, to the higher,
+wider generalizations of thought, which belong to the domain of pure
+reason. In the work of classification, by detecting differences, a
+knowledge of the inductive process is gained. Similarly, by detecting
+likenesses, a knowledge of deductive reasoning is acquired.</p>
+
+<p>The body, like the brain, being composed of a co-operative colony of
+more or less intelligent cells, is an important part of the mind, which
+responds to educational training. True education, then is a development
+of both mind and body, in accord with the law of natural evolution, that
+embraces all there is in the domain of morals, pertaining to right
+thinking, right living and right doing. In other words, the action of
+the mind comprehends the physical, intellectual, moral and spiritual
+expression of the individual. Therefore, by the rightly conducted
+processes of a higher education, we may form an evenly developed
+character of the highest order. A character, unfolded physically,
+intellectually and spiritually, in harmony with the requirements of
+cosmic law. Hence, the imperative necessity, in the early training of
+children, of introducing the first steps of this system of true education.</p>
+
+<p>From these premises we must conclude, that the first four years of a
+child's life, should be devoted to some systematic method, for acquiring
+a most complete equipment of exact images, which will afford the basis
+for typical sensations, emotions, ideas and thoughts, regarding things
+in the domain of nature, about which, later in life, the child must<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[Pg 334]</a></span>
+know in order to become educated. To this end, children must have
+opportunities during these important years of image building, to
+experience all the sensations, and to form all the true images, that can
+come to them through the senses of seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling,
+touching, feeling and sensations of temperature, such as heat and cold.</p>
+
+<p>It is of the utmost importance, that these early images, which are to
+become the standard of the mind, in all judgments of future years;
+should be made as complete and as perfect as possible.</p>
+
+<p>A child is primarily and instinctively imitative. From the first dawn of
+intelligence, children strive to emulate the acts of their brighter,
+older and better-taught associates. Hence, the necessity for a nursery
+and kindergarten training, such as the one instituted at Solaris.
+Practical work, in this novel and magnificently equipped institution,
+has proved conclusively, that, even in early infancy, associated
+together in happy groups, children acquire intellectual, moral and
+physical training, much more easily and swiftly, than is possible under
+any other circumstances. This affords another demonstration, of the
+efficacy of co-operative group work, in the primary steps of education.</p>
+
+<p>The cargosita, is well calculated to offer children the most perfect
+conditions, for accumulating a well selected store of sensations and
+images, through the avenues of the different senses. A teacher or nurse,
+usually some member of the mothers' club, is seated on each car as the
+center of its group. It becomes her pleasure, to direct attention to the
+various objects. Let us follow the cargosita with its precious freight,
+as it slowly moves around the oval.</p>
+
+<p>Images produced by the sense of seeing, are first<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[Pg 335]</a></span> in order. Large
+sheets of thick, heavy paper mounted on cloth, seven in number,
+displaying the different colors of the rainbow, are hung at uniform
+intervals around the room. They can be raised or lowered, to reach an
+easy angle of vision from the cars. After each primary color, appear
+half-width sheets of the same height, displaying the various hues, tints
+and shades of that particular color. Printed across each sheet in large
+white letters, is the name of the color, hue, tint or shade. Altogether,
+this color scheme forms a combination of great length, of such
+remarkable variety, that it becomes for the little ones, a well nigh
+inexhaustable source of fascinating amusement.</p>
+
+<p>Red, with its various hues, tints and shades, is the first color to be
+exhibited. Three days later, another color series is substituted. This
+course is continued until the entire series is finished. The children
+have experienced in a regular sequence, the sensations and images,
+produced by the entire scale of color. These mental pictures have been
+repeated so often, in connection with the muscular sense of exhilarating
+motion, that they have become permanently enregistered in brain-cell
+formation. A review every few months, serves to fix these images more
+firmly in the brain.</p>
+
+<p>This primary course of educative work is continued, by taking up
+consecutively, in regular order; on a separate series of sheets, life
+size, naturally colored photographs, of fishes, reptiles, insects,
+birds, animals, and people. Later, geological specimens, glass, rocks
+and minerals. To be followed by pictures of life in the vegetable
+kingdom, flowers, fruits, plants and trees. Again, with photographs of
+works of art, paintings and statuary.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[Pg 336]</a></span></p><p>Interspersed with this general course, are short lessons, offered to
+produce true images, in the hearing, smelling and tasting areas of the brain.</p>
+
+<p>First, by repeating at different times, while the cargosita is in
+motion, with its cargo of infantile passengers, all of the best musical
+compositions, executed vocally, and on the electric piano, the giant
+orchestrion, the violin, and a great variety of other musical
+instruments. These lessons in hearing, are repeated and varied, until
+the children have become familiar with most of the sounds in the tone
+scale. The mental sound images produced, have been associated with the
+happy scenes of this merry kindergarten life. By this interweaving of
+pleasant sensations, they have become more firmly fixed in a healthy
+group of brain cells, thus planted and established in the hearing areas of the brain.</p>
+
+<p>Second: In a similar manner, the taste sensations and images, are
+produced and registered. Day after day, one by one, tiny packages of
+confections, beautifully wrapped in brilliantly colored papers, are
+given to the children while on their cargosita excursions. These
+interesting lessons are continued, until the entire range of savors has
+been exhausted. The curiosity, excitement, pleasure and eagerness
+exhibited by children, in these tasting investigations, is something surprising.</p>
+
+<p>Third: Flowers, beautiful flowers of all kinds, are largely used in
+producing sensations and images, to be registered in the brain areas of
+the sense of smell. The essence of odors which cannot be gotten from
+flowers, are used to saturate small sachet bags, of charming color and
+artistic design. These bags make attractive play-things for the
+children. While using them they soon, unconsciously, become very<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[Pg 337]</a></span>
+skillful in detecting the slightest differences between the various
+odors. Brain areas usually left barren, are now filled and developed.</p>
+
+<p>Later in life, when children come to study the different sciences, this
+ability to detect the presence of the slightest odor, becomes
+invaluable, in the difficult work of classification. With such an
+unusual equipment, they will be far in advance of those pupils, who have
+not wisely, left uncultivated this important sense of smelling.</p>
+
+<p>In connection with the regular course of exercises, prescribed for
+third- and fourth-year children, there is introduced in the play and work
+rooms of the kindergarten, a special training, designed to develop the
+various sensations of heat and cold: changes in temperature, from one
+extreme to the other: sensitiveness to touch: to recognize any degree of
+pressure, from zero to the violence of pain: ability to detect size,
+length, breadth, and thickness: degrees of smoothness, elasticity, and
+hardness: all through the senses of touch, pressure, and muscular feeling.</p>
+
+<p>Interesting plays are invented for the children, into which, these
+exercises are skillfully introduced. These plays, have a peculiar
+fascination. They excite an intense interest, which seems to always
+attract and hold the child's attention, until there is enregistered, in
+regular sequence, in the touch areas of the brain, all the sensations
+and images, which can be produced by many weeks of training, in this systematic course.</p>
+
+<p>The training of the senses, is also carried forward through the medium
+of such plays as are calculated to bring out the child's capacity to
+distinguish the least noticeable difference, in pitches of color,
+degrees of light, pitches of sound, with its degrees of volume<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[Pg 338]</a></span> and
+loudness; together, with ability to discover the least noticeable
+difference, in resistance to pressure, or the slightest increase or
+decrease of rythmical motion, etc. The lines of least noticeable
+difference, in the capacity of the various senses, having been well
+established, the training commences along those lines. Very soon, in the
+brain areas of the senses under training, there comes an increased cell
+growth, which gives added sharpness and capacity. The line of least
+noticeable difference, is moved one step nearer the limit. This process
+is continued with each sense separately, until the limit for all has
+been reached. As a general result of this training, we find that the
+child has acquired an extraordinary reinforcement of brain power and
+intellectual acuteness.</p>
+
+<p>Regular kindergarten work, for children at Solaris, between two and four
+years of age; is again reinforced, by adding to the list of exercises, a
+large number of plays, which introduce the variously colored, lettered
+blocks, so successfully used in Fern Fenwick's early training, during
+her seven years of Alaska life.</p>
+
+<p>The collection of blocks, is a very large one. It is calculated to
+furnish a series of new combinations, which cannot be exhausted, in the
+plays of one whole year. These blocks are made and colored with the
+greatest care. The groups or families, are distinguished, by size, shape
+and color. The Alphabet blocks, are large cubes, painted white, with the
+letter showing in black on every side. All other blocks, have a uniform
+thickness of one-half inch. They are as large as can be fashioned from
+blocks two inches square. The names appear in white letters, on all alike.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[Pg 339]</a></span></p><p>The astronomy blocks are star shaped, painted blue. The geology blocks
+are diamond shaped, painted brown. The chemistry blocks are hexagonal in
+shape, painted red. The geography blocks are globular in shape, painted
+gray. The blocks representing physics, are octagon shaped, painted
+yellow. The botany blocks are oblong, painted green. The physiology
+blocks are triangular in shape, painted pink. The history blocks are
+square, painted black. A large number of the key-words of the sciences,
+are painted on blocks, which, in size, shape and color, are counterparts
+of those that represent the heads of families to which they belong.</p>
+
+<p>This scheme of blocks, furnishes the ground work for the construction of
+a great number of games, for the amusement and edification of the
+children. Games of word-building, such as spelling out the names of
+fishes, insects, reptiles, birds and animals. Also of building the names
+of familiar things, houses, stables, light-houses, factories and mills;
+rivers, ponds, lakes, mountains, trees and fields; hats, shoes, coats,
+cloaks and other articles of clothing; common household utensils in
+every day use, such as pots, kettles, pans, pails, cups, knives, forks
+and spoons; stove, shovel, tongs, mop and broom; toys, dolls, balls, kites, tops, etc.</p>
+
+<p>By the use of many such ingenious games, the children unconsciously
+become familiar with the names of the sciences, and with all the
+principal words, which belong to each one. For example: Names of
+heavenly bodies in the domain of astronomy. The sun, the moon, the milky
+way, the planets, the constellations, the polar star, and the names of
+twenty stars of the greatest magnitude: In the domain of geology,
+fossils, shells, minerals, rocks,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[Pg 340]</a></span> shales, clays, gravels, and the names
+of geological periods: In the domain of chemistry, the names of acids,
+gases, metals, crucibles, retorts, mortars, and the names of a great
+variety of chemical combinations: In the domain of geography, globes,
+hemispheres, continents, islands, oceans, gulfs, bays, and straits;
+equator, tropics, circles, longitude, latitude, etc. These examples,
+will furnish an approximate idea of the wide scope in scientific names,
+covered by these key-words, when applied to all of the sciences.</p>
+
+<p>In such plays of science grouping, the interest and pleasure of the
+children is intensified, by applying a system of personification, to the
+families of the different sciences: For instance, Mr. Astronomy Blue;
+Mrs. Geology Brown; Mr. Chemistry Red; Mrs. Geography Gray, etc.</p>
+
+<p>In the greatest and most useful of all games, the game of
+classification: Groups of children, spend hours with their teachers or
+directors, in separating and classifying, heaps of miscellaneous blocks,
+bearing the names of the sciences and the key-words belonging thereto.
+They are silent, absorbed, contented, thoroughly interested and happy.
+So intense is the interest displayed, that after the fourth or fifth
+game, every child can correctly classify the blocks, by quickly placing
+them in the groups to which they belong. They rapidly learn to call the
+name at sight, which is printed on any block they may happen to pick up.
+Those who have not learned to read by playing word-building games with
+the alphabet blocks, only need to have an unfamiliar name, repeated to
+them three or four times by the director, and it is fixed. Size, shape
+and color of block, with length of name and shape of its letters,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[Pg 341]</a></span> soon
+serves to make the little ones, perfect masters of the most difficult names.</p>
+
+<p>These children have learned the value of time. They have learned to
+appreciate the joyousness of useful amusement. They have no desire to
+clog their minds, with the untruthful trash of fairy tales and Mother
+Goose stories, which played such an important part in nineteenth century
+methods. They no longer need such silly things, as a source of
+amusement. They seem to realize, that they only have mind-room, for the
+truthful, the useful and the practical.</p>
+
+<p>The value and significance of figures, is taught by the game of forming
+the pyramid. On badges of broad, blue ribbon, are printed large gold
+figures, from one to ten. Inside the oval, in the center of the large
+room, ten rows of seats are arranged: with one seat in the first, and
+ten in the last row. That is, one seat is added to each succeeding row.</p>
+
+<p>At the commencement of the game, when number one is called by the
+director, the little boy or girl, who is decorated with the badge
+bearing that number, takes the first seat, which forms the apex of the
+pyramid. The two children who wear number two badges; when called take
+seats in the second row. Observing this order, the calling is continued
+until the seats are filled, and the pyramid of fifty-five children is complete.</p>
+
+<p>The director, having taken a position a short distance in front of the
+apex of the pyramid, proceeds to call the children to their feet.
+Calling by number, commencing with the tens, the rows rise in
+succession, from the base to the apex. Each row is called upon to
+perform some part of a short series of graceful gymnastics. Then, the
+whole group in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[Pg 342]</a></span> unison. Later, these exercises are made more
+interesting, by giving each child a small silk flag. In this part of the
+game, the children are at their best. The picture they make, is just lovely!</p>
+
+<p>In the closing part of the game, the children are seated and the
+mathematical exercises are introduced. The director says: "Each child
+has one nose. How many noses, have the number tens? Again, each child
+has one body. How many bodies, have the number nines? Each child has two
+eyes. How many eyes, have the number eights? Each child has two ears.
+How many ears, have the number sevens? Each child has one mouth. How
+many mouths, have the number sixes? Each child has two arms. How many
+arms, have the number fives? Each child has two hands. How many hands,
+have the number fours? Each child has two legs. How many legs, have the
+number threes? Each child has two feet. How many feet, have the number
+twos? Each child has ten fingers and ten toes. How many fingers and
+toes, has number one?" These questions are varied and repeated, day
+after day, until every child in the pyramid, can answer any one of the
+questions, correctly and promptly. To be chosen as a member of this
+game, is a coveted honor, it is conferred as a reward for good conduct.
+Consequently, the pride and pleasure exhibited by these decorated and
+selected children, is commensurate with the importance of this very
+primitive class in mathematics and physiology.</p>
+
+<p>This very brief outline, of the plays, exercises and studies, which form
+the nursery and kindergarten course, for children at Solaris, who are
+under four years of age, will serve to show how much important
+knowledge, a child can accumulate during those<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[Pg 343]</a></span> fruitful image-bearing
+years, while pleasantly and zealously engaged, day after day, in a
+series of wisely directed games.</p>
+
+<p>In playing these games, the children have become interested in, and have
+learned a very large number of useful words. These words in the mind of
+the child, are as familiar and as easily remembered, as are the names of
+favorite toys, such as balls, bats, kites and dolls. This wide
+vocabulary of key-words which has become the mental property of the
+child, has planted in the mind the necessary images, which in future
+years of study, will serve as a sure foundation, for the quick and easy
+mastery of all branches of useful knowledge. Many a man of the world has
+gone through life, without acquiring such a vocabulary.</p>
+
+<p>Considering this primary course of study from another point of view, we
+have an illustration of the value of a method for cultivating the
+faculty of memory, which differs widely from any thing known to ordinary
+systems of education. From this illustration, we perceive that the
+perfectness and permanency of memory, is dependent on the foundations
+which have been laid for it, by the quantity and quality of sensations
+and images, regarding the things to be remembered, which have been
+registered or planted in brain-cell formation. These living images,
+fixed on the sensitive plate of the brain by the law of vibration, in a
+manner somewhat analogous to etching on the cylinders of a phonograph,
+are capable of being reproduced by the will-force of the individual.
+From these premises, we have gained a new definition for the word
+memory. It is a process of refunctioning or reregistering, any
+sensation, image, concept, idea, or thought, which at<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_344" id="Page_344">[Pg 344]</a></span> any time has
+become a part of the growth of the brain.</p>
+
+<p>In the child's mind, memories regarding objects or words which have
+become familiar, are as a rule, closely connected with memories of keen
+enjoyment, resulting from participation in some childish sport. These
+memories are many times repeated. A few small groups of brain cells have
+become dominant in growth, because they have received the full force of
+the entire stimulating power of the brain. Hence, the memories of
+childhood, are much more enduring than those of after life. Hence, it
+becomes a matter of the utmost importance, that these early images,
+should be connected with the greatest possible number of natural
+objects, their names, and the key-words of the sciences, which are used
+to describe them.</p>
+
+<p>In these restless years for the little ones, it becomes a matter of
+great moment, to keep their minds busily employed, at what appeals to
+their self-consciousness, as some useful work. In this respect, the
+popular science games, gratify and completely satisfy the pride and
+dignity of these embryo men and women. The mind is naturally unfolded.
+The brain areas, are all evenly and harmoniously developed. The
+children, when so usefully employed, are kept amiable. They do not
+become nervous, irritable, cross, or vicious. They are taught, as soon
+as they can walk and talk, that the self-respect and innate dignity,
+which belongs to them as little men and little women, demands that they
+should always treat each other lovingly, politely, kindly, unselfishly.
+It is continually urged upon them, that they must learn to obey the
+nurse or teacher, without delay, without a murmur; that they must not<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_345" id="Page_345">[Pg 345]</a></span>
+cry or be fretful; that in these things, they must always strive to
+imitate the good acts of older comrades or playmates. In this way, the
+moral unfoldment and education of the child, keeps pace with the
+intellectual and the physical. Altogether, the effect is most excellent!
+Thousands of children have gone to ruin, for the want of just such
+training, in the first four years of life!</p>
+
+<p>The planning and final organization, of this novel scheme for nursery
+and kindergarten training, has been the joint work of Fern Fenwick,
+Fillmore Flagg, Gertrude and George Gerrish. In striving for the best
+results, this quartet of co-operative educators, have been ambitious to
+perfect a system, which would satisfy the demand for a natural,
+harmonious unfoldment of the well-born babies, which were to represent
+the highest product of Solaris Farm.</p>
+
+<p>The success which has attended the practical operation of the scheme,
+has made them very happy. Towards this success, Fern Fenwick has been
+able to contribute largely, on account of her early Alaska training, and
+her thorough knowledge of the improved methods, growing out of the
+important discoveries made by Prof. Gates.</p>
+
+<p>In applying the system to the class work of the regular schools, the
+long experience, trained skill and natural aptitude as teachers, of
+George and Gertrude Gerrish, has proved wonderfully effective.</p>
+
+<p>By supplementing the system, with a very complete course of manual
+training in the use of tools, and in acquiring a competent knowledge of
+the industrial arts, Fillmore Flagg has been equally successful, in
+educating the muscular children, and in arming them most effectively,
+both mentally and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_346" id="Page_346">[Pg 346]</a></span> physically, for the practical work of life.</p>
+
+<p>Altogether, the complete course, results in an all-round development of
+brain power, more than five times greater than that offered by any other
+system. A result, which marks the beginning of a new educational era. A
+result, which promises to give to the world, a dominant race of
+thinkers, whose ability to bless mankind, is to be so great, that it cannot now be estimated.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXIX.</h2>
+
+<h3>AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR.</h3>
+
+<p>In the month of August, 1911, six years after our first introduction to
+him, we find our hero, Fillmore Flagg, seated in his private office at
+Solaris. This office was located in a building on the public square,
+near the store, which has been especially designed and constructed, for
+use as the central office for the general co-operative, farm movement.
+Here, Fillmore Flagg, has been busily engaged for more than two months,
+in planning the preliminary work for eight new farms. For the moment, he
+seems absorbed in a dreamy reverie. From this, he was sharply aroused by
+the entrance of a messenger, who announced a visitor. The visitor proved
+to be none other, than our old acquaintance, George Gaylord. The
+greetings, exchanged between these re-united college chums, were cordial
+indeed! In the conversations which are to follow, the reader will find a
+continuation of the story of Solaris Farm.</p>
+
+<p>"Shades of venus! How well you are looking,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_347" id="Page_347">[Pg 347]</a></span> Fillmore! I need not ask
+how you have fared since last we met! One look at your face, tells the
+whole story! The goddess of good fortune, must have smiled on you right
+royally! I congratulate you most heartily! The fame of your exploits
+here at Solaris, has reached New England! What a lovely village you have
+made! And the farm too, is just delightful! To behold it, is well worth
+the price of a long journey! Of course, at some convenient time, you are
+to show me the farm, and tell me all about it."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you George, for your congratulations; You have surmised
+correctly! I have been prospered, far beyond my most sanguine
+expectations! At the proper time, I shall take pleasure in relating the
+whole story for your benefit. Now, I am anxious to hear something
+regarding yourself. Tell me, my dear fellow! To what piece of good
+fortune, do I owe this unexpected visit? And, may I hope, that the
+goddess you just mentioned, has been equally gracious with her smiles for you!"</p>
+
+<p>"It is a long story, Fillmore, and I can assure you it is not a pleasant
+one. It seems a pity to mar your peace of mind by relating such a
+miserable tale of woe! During the past five years, the unkind fates have
+frowned upon me, and I have suffered much! In order to give you an
+intelligent reason for my visit to Solaris, I must tell you of some
+good, and many bitter things which have transpired, since we parted at
+the hotel on Mount Meenahga."</p>
+
+<p>"Really! George, I am sorry for your misfortunes! But surmising so much
+from your preparatory statement, I now wish to know all that you can
+consistently tell me. For the bitterness and suffering, you have my
+sympathy in advance."</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_348" id="Page_348">[Pg 348]</a></span></p><p>"Thank you Fillmore! I knew that I could rely on your sympathy and
+friendship, under all circumstances. Please pardon any lack of coherence
+or orderly arrangement of details, in what I am about to relate.</p>
+
+<p>"Late in the month of November, which followed our parting in the
+mountains, in accordance with previous arrangements, I took charge of
+the church in the New England city, where my uncle George resided. My
+relations with the members of the congregation, proved as pleasant as
+could be desired. I became acquainted with Martha Merritt, my uncle's
+niece by marriage. She was a beautiful girl! Very winning, sweet and
+amiable. I soon became fond of her company. This seemed to please both
+my uncle and my mother. I could see that they had set their hearts on a
+marriage between Martha and myself.</p>
+
+<p>"About the middle of the following January, acting on a suggestion from
+uncle George, I asked Martha for her hand in marriage. After taking a
+whole week for consideration, she finally consented and we were engaged.
+Some days later, I urged her to name an early day for our wedding. Very
+much to my surprise, she said 'You must not hurry me, George! You must
+give me time!' I hastened to assure her that I did not wish to be
+inconsiderate, and begged her to take another week, in which to fix the
+date. During this time, I saw very little of Martha. In the brief
+interviews that followed, she was pale and agitated. At the end of the
+week, again her old-time self, she came to me with the news that our
+wedding day had been fixed for the fifteenth of June, five months distant.</p>
+
+<p>"Early in February, the clouds of disaster began<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_349" id="Page_349">[Pg 349]</a></span> to gather. My mother
+was confined to her bed with what proved to be a serious illness. After
+four months of almost constant suffering, which she bore with the
+patience and fortitude of a martyr, she was borne across the dark water,
+to join that vast majority, that silent, mysterious, ever increasing
+host of the buried dead.</p>
+
+<p>"My mother was buried on the fifteenth of June. Overwhelmed with grief,
+I readily assented to Martha's suggestion, that our wedding should be
+postponed until the first of October. Recovering slowly from the shock
+of my bereavement, I turned eagerly to Martha, for loving consolation. I
+was horrified, to find that her affection for me had turned to
+ill-concealed aversion! There was a terror-stricken, haunted look in her
+eyes, as she strove in every possible way, to avoid being left alone
+with me even for a moment, which frightened and almost crushed me with
+grief. I knew that something dreadful, must have happened! She was so
+pitiful to behold, that I could not be angry or jealous! But, I resolved
+to know the truth. At the first opportunity, I demanded an explanation.
+Bursting into tears, she told me the story of her bitter experience.</p>
+
+<p>"Falling on her knees beside my chair, Martha implored me to be
+merciful. 'George,' she said, 'I know that I am the most wretched, and
+the most desperately wicked girl on the face of the earth! You have been
+so kind, and I have treated you so shamefully! How, can you ever forgive
+me? The only reparation that I can now make, is to tell you the whole
+truth, without reservation. Ten months before I saw you, while I was at
+school near Boston, I met Phillip Plato. The fates would have it, that
+we should fall desperately in love with each other,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_350" id="Page_350">[Pg 350]</a></span> at our first
+meeting. In a short time we were engaged. In entering into this
+engagement, I did so without the knowledge of my uncle, or any friend. I
+did not stop for a moment, to consider my duty to uncle George, who had
+always been so good to me. I could think of no one but Phillip, and of
+my love for him. In the delirium of love's first dream, the weeks passed
+as days! Alas! The dream was passing brief! Somehow, Phillip's parents
+became aware of our engagement. They were very wealthy, and exceedingly
+ambitious to have Phillip marry more wealth. Angry with him, they came
+to me and cruelly declared, that they would never allow him to wed such
+a fortuneless girl! With look and gesture of scorn, they told me that
+they were just on the eve of going abroad, taking Phillip for two years
+of travel, in which they should strive to cure him completely of his
+insane infatuation. This, then was the end of my romance. My cruelly
+wounded pride, rose up in rebellion. I was furious! I returned scorn for
+scorn! I bade them begone!</p>
+
+<p>"'I returned to my uncle's home, my heart hot with the indignation of an
+outraged pride, and filled with a determination, to show to the world no
+sign, but to use all my strength of will, to cast Phillip out of my
+life; to utterly forget him and his selfish, greedy, heartless parents.
+When you came, George, I was more anxious than ever before, to please my
+uncle in every possible way. I foolishly imagined, that in encouraging
+your attentions as a lover, I was helping myself, to forget my love for
+Phillip. Oh! What a terrible, cruel mistake! How terrible, how cruel, I
+was soon to realize. You will remember, George, how strangely I behaved
+at that interview, in which you asked me to fix the day for our
+wedding.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_351" id="Page_351">[Pg 351]</a></span> Let me explain. A few hours previous, while I was lost in one
+of my occasional fits of melancholy moping, the voice of Phillip came to
+my ears with startling distinctness. The voice said Martha, you must
+remain true to me! I love you as devotedly as ever! I am determined,
+never to give you up! I am coming home to wed you! I am surely coming!
+Wait for me! These words kept ringing in my ears, like the tolling of a
+funeral bell. They thrilled me through and through! The barriers of my
+pride gave way. The returning tide of my love for Phillip, swept in upon
+me with such force, that my heart almost ceased to beat! I was faint,
+deadly faint! When I recovered consciousness and afterwards, at our
+interview, I was absolutely wretched! Your request, added to my anguish.
+I was powerless to answer, I could only beg for more time. All through
+that dreadful week, I strove to convince myself that my ears had
+deceived me, that the voice was not real, only a phasma, a
+hallucination, born of my fits of melancholy. Unfortunately, I finally succeeded!</p>
+
+<p>"'Now, George, you shall hear the sequel, the climax of my wretchedness.
+The day before your mother died, I received a long letter from Phillip.
+It was written at Rome. Every line of that letter, was eloquent with
+Phillip's steadfast devotion, and love for me. In brief, a complete
+verification of what the warning voice had told me. His parents had
+relented. He was coming home to make me his bride. He had planned to
+arrive at Boston, in time to celebrate the New Year. He spoke of a long
+letter, which he had written to me, just on the eve of his going abroad.
+In that letter he had assured me of his undying love, of his
+determination never to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_352" id="Page_352">[Pg 352]</a></span> give me up. In closing, he had begged me to wait
+for him, to remain true to him. He had repeated its contents, because he
+had been constantly haunted with the idea that the letter in question,
+had failed to reach me. And so it had.</p>
+
+<p>"'This, George, is the summing up of my misery! It has filled my heart
+with the anguish of despair! I can never love anyone but Phillip! I
+cannot marry you, George! I cannot! It would be an unpardonable sin
+against you, against my own soul! What shall I do? What can I do? What
+atonement can I ever make, for the shame, the humiliation, the
+suffering, which I have brought into your life?'</p>
+
+<p>"In this brief sketch, Fillmore, you have the substance of Martha's sad
+story. I believe it was absolutely true. I was deeply moved, by her
+abject misery and humiliation. A great wave of tender sympathy, swelled
+in my heart; blotting out all thoughts of self. I gave her back her
+engagement, and bade her go free; free to marry whomsoever her heart had
+chosen; assured of my forgiveness, and of my wish for her future
+happiness. I need not repeat her grateful thanks. From this time
+forward, our lives were widely separated.</p>
+
+<p>"During the long tedious months that followed, I was going through a
+bitter, humiliating experience. I strove by every effort to so interest
+myself in my church work, that I might forget my griefs and my
+disappointments. In this, I failed utterly. I found to my amazement,
+that I did not possess a thorough belief or confidence, in the efficacy
+of the atonement, the very ground work of the entire scheme of Christian
+salvation. Without this belief, I could not hope to do effective work in
+the ministry. No doubt, this<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_353" id="Page_353">[Pg 353]</a></span> was the cause of my lack of interest in my
+pastoral duties; the one thing, during this time of trials, which most
+disturbed my mental equilibrium, and added to the intensity of my
+sufferings. My growing antipathy towards all kinds of church work, daily
+increased the mental tension, caused by anxious seasons of watching,
+praying, and fighting, against the farther dominancy of this monstrous
+antipathy. All opposing efforts proved useless. With each succeeding
+week, my Sunday services became more burdensome, more perfunctory, more
+unsatisfactory, more self-accusing. At last, in self defense, the church
+trustees proposed my taking a year's vacation, for recuperation.</p>
+
+<p>"This welcome respite, I gladly accepted. My vacation, is now nearly
+finished. I cannot go back to my church. I do not wish to go. I realize,
+that I am wholly unfitted for its duties. I feel, that I have made life
+a failure! In fact, Fillmore, you see before you in your friend George
+Gaylord, a man who is aimlessly drifting on the sea of life, like a ship
+without a rudder. A man not yet thirty, without a home, without
+ambition, hope or purpose! Possibly, I may be in the clutches of some
+approaching attack of nervous prostration, I hope not, I am sure!</p>
+
+<p>"You must pardon my prolixity, Fillmore. I will now give you the reason
+for my present visit to Solaris. After my mother became very ill, some
+weeks before her death, she received a letter from Caroline Houghton, a
+life long friend, an old schoolmate. At that time, Mrs. Houghton was
+residing in a small town near Denver, Colorado. She was a widow with
+scant means of support; with only one child, a daughter. Mrs. Houghton,
+in her letter, said: 'I am dying among strangers! I am leaving my
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_354" id="Page_354">[Pg 354]</a></span>darling daughter alone in the world, without money, without relatives;
+simply in charge of recently acquired friends. As a last request, I beg
+you, after I am gone to exercise a protecting care over my orphaned child!'</p>
+
+<p>"This letter worried my mother greatly. I think if she had been well,
+she would have hurried to Mrs. Houghton's bedside. After some delay, she
+finally turned the letter over to me to answer. Just at that time, my
+mind was wholly preoccupied with preparations for my fast approaching
+wedding day; and also, with the adjustment of a number of important
+church matters, which demanded my immediate attention. Without taking
+time to read the letter, without realizing its importance, or its
+urgency; I mechanically placed it in my desk, thinking meanwhile, that
+when the time came in which I could pen a reply, I would then confer
+with mother for further instructions. Unfortunately, the letter became
+misplaced and all memory of its existence, passed out of my mind!</p>
+
+<p>"One month ago, while busily engaged in assorting and rearranging a
+confusing mass of papers, I found the lost letter. After reading it
+carefully, I became conscience-smitten, as I thought what serious
+results might have followed my criminal negligence. I then commenced a
+search for this young lady, which has finally lead me to Solaris. I have
+traced her here, as a member of your colony. Her name is Honora Eloise
+Houghton. Do you know her, Fillmore! Is she here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Make yourself perfectly easy, friend Gaylord! She is here! She is all
+right! Miss Houghton does not need your protecting care, or the
+protecting care of anyone. She is abundantly able to take<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_355" id="Page_355">[Pg 355]</a></span> good care of
+herself and of plenty of other people besides! She can dissipate your
+troubles in a jiffy! She can give you something to think of, which will
+not fail to hold your close attention. She can soon find a work for you,
+in which you will be interested in spite of yourself! In fact George,
+Honora Eloise Houghton, is one of the brightest, most independent,
+capable, self-poised, self-supporting young women at Solaris! If she
+should kindly consent to take you under the brooding care of her
+protecting wing, in one month's time you would not know yourself, you
+would be transformed into a new man! But, Miss Houghton is a very busy
+woman. One of the most useful on the farm! Just at present, she is the
+leading director of the nursery and kindergarten school; the principal
+female teacher, in the gymnasium; the president of the dancing club; the
+secretary and treasurer of the physiology club; and vice-president of
+the botany, chemistry and history clubs. After faithfully performing the
+duties belonging to these offices, she still finds time to do a great
+amount of scientific research and reading; so much, that last year, she
+easily carried off the prize, which was awarded to the best qualified,
+scientific student among the young ladies at Solaris."</p>
+
+<p>"Stop, Fillmore! You grieve and astonish me! You surely must be jesting,
+in dishing up this long rigmarole, about Miss Houghton's
+accomplishments! After what I have told you, I cannot conceive how you
+can fail to understand, that I am not in a mood for jesting. As for the
+girl, I very much desire to meet her, that I may have an opportunity to
+express the regrets and apologies for my unfortunate neglect of her
+mother's letter, to which she is so justly entitled. This painful duty
+once performed, my<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_356" id="Page_356">[Pg 356]</a></span> interest in Miss Houghton will cease."</p>
+
+<p>"I assure you, George, I am not jesting! I am very much in earnest! I
+think I understand your case thoroughly. I know that you do not realize
+the seriousness of that paralyzing, apathetic condition, into which you
+have fallen. I do not think you need condolence, or any form of mild
+sympathetic treatment. I am sure you do need very much, to be aroused by
+new associations, scenes, friends and acquaintances; strong magnetic
+people, with ideas so radical, so startling, that by one quick wrench,
+your line of thought may be diverted into some entirely new channel. If
+therefore, in my talk to you about Miss Houghton, I have succeeded in
+arousing your indignation, in the slightest degree, I shall be
+encouraged by knowing that my efforts for your good, have been made in
+the right direction."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Fillmore! I fear I have been hasty! And, that I have
+entirely misjudged your motive! I am now in a much better frame of mind,
+to listen attentively to what you have to say."</p>
+
+<p>"That sounds much more reasonable, George. I will now return to my
+description of Miss Houghton, which was broken off by your interruption.
+For the reasons I have just stated, I believe that Miss Houghton, is the
+one individual in a thousand, whose acquaintance just at present, would
+prove most beneficial for you. Of course you have not seen her, you do
+not know her; therefore, you cannot appreciate the peculiar charm of her
+magnetic presence, or the force and dignity of her attractive character.
+For this reason, a personal description, will fail to give you an
+adequate idea of the noble type of womanhood which she represents.</p>
+
+<p>"However, George, after these preliminary <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_357" id="Page_357">[Pg 357]</a></span>remarks, I hasten to assure
+you, that as a woman, Honora Eloise Houghton, is a goodly person to
+behold. One inch less than six feet in height, straight as an arrow,
+broad of shoulder, and round of limb, swift of hand and foot, lithe and
+willowy in every motion, her commanding figure possesses the grace and
+beauty, of a Venus and a Diana combined. Her large, full, well turned
+neck and throat, fittingly supports a symmetrical, well poised head, of
+the same noble proportions. A long, thick, luxuriant growth of golden
+hair, brilliant with changing hues of a coppery tinge, seemingly so
+surcharged with electro-magnetic force, as to form a halo of sunshine
+around both face and head, is her chief personal adornment. Her large,
+oval face, well formed mouth, strong white teeth, firm chin, finely
+arched, strongly defined brows, broad, smooth forehead, and straight
+grecian nose; all denote a character of marked type and unusual force.
+Full, clear, gray eyes, set well apart, beautifully and mirthfully
+expressive, together, with a bright, ruddy complexion, are both
+indicative of Miss Houghton's perfect health and strong, vital,
+nervous-sanguine temperament. With this temperament and such a
+magnificent physique, reinforced by wonderful psychic powers, she is an
+ideal healing medium. The very personification of health! Such is the
+potency of her magnetic force, that among the people of Solaris, cures
+performed by the simple process of laying on of hands, have made her the
+marvel of the village; they have won for her the confidence, respect,
+admiration and love, of every member of the colony; man, woman or child.</p>
+
+<p>"In conclusion, George, I may say with pride, that Miss Houghton
+represents one of the noblest of women, which may be discovered, evolved
+or grown<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_358" id="Page_358">[Pg 358]</a></span> by the co-operative farm. As an exponent of what the movement
+can do for woman, she is a shining example, of which our people may well
+be proud!</p>
+
+<p>"Try to be patient with me, George! I have described this young lady, at
+such length, in order that you may meet her without prejudice. We will
+now go in search of Miss Houghton, for an interview. After introducing
+you, I will return here. When the interview is at an end, I will have my
+light, road mobile ready, and we will take a spin around the farm.
+Afterwards, if there should be time, we will take a run over to Fenwick,
+ten miles away."</p>
+
+<p>"That arrangement will suit me very well, Fillmore! I am now quite
+curious to meet Miss Houghton. After my interview with her is concluded,
+I shall be delighted to accompany you on a mobile excursion over the
+farm. I have in mind a host of questions, which I wish to ask; after my
+tour of inspection, I am sure I can frame them more intelligently."</p>
+
+<p>Four days later, we find George Gaylord, again seated in the office with
+Fillmore Flagg. They are speaking of things which have transpired,
+during the interval named.</p>
+
+<p>"You are looking decidedly better, to-day, George! I congratulate you!
+After the fright you gave me, while at the club dance, that evening
+after your arrival at Solaris, I thought you were ticketed for a long,
+serious illness."</p>
+
+<p>"Really, Fillmore, I have Miss Houghton to thank for being able to again
+walk and talk with some degree of steadiness! She is truly, the most
+marvelous woman, that I have ever met! There seems to be a healing power
+in the very touch of her <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_359" id="Page_359">[Pg 359]</a></span>garments! I feel quite sure, that she has
+saved my life. I ought to apologize to the members of the dancing club,
+for the very awkward sensation, which must have followed my unfortunate
+collapse; that sudden attack of giddiness and loss of consciousness.
+Miss Houghton tells me, that the attack lasted over an hour, after I had
+been placed on a cot in the hospital. Were you there, Fillmore?"</p>
+
+<p>"What a question, George! Of course I was there! That one hour, seemed
+three to me. Knowing something of your critical condition, I was blaming
+myself, for having foolishly attempted to crowd so much into your first
+day's experience at Solaris. However, Miss Houghton assured me, that I
+need not be alarmed over the trance-like condition, into which you had
+fallen. She seemed to understand your case from the first, and declared
+that she could cure you with a few days' treatment. She further stated
+for my benefit, that I was in no wise responsible for the attack of
+vertigo, which in your condition, was liable to occur at any time.</p>
+
+<p>"So far as the dancing club people are concerned, no apologies on your
+part are needed. They understand the circumstances, and wish me to
+assure you, that they will rejoice with you over your speedy recovery.
+It seems, George, that your physician prescribes plenty of fresh air and
+sunshine for you, during the next few days. Do you think you are strong
+enough to-day, for another mobile excursion over the farm?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes Fillmore, quite strong enough, provided the excursion is not too
+long. To-morrow, if the weather should be fine, I hope we may be able to
+take that trip to Fenwick, which you spoke of on the afternoon of my
+arrival. The more I see of the farm,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_360" id="Page_360">[Pg 360]</a></span> the more I am interested and
+delighted. In a very short time, I believe I might become an enthusiast
+on the agricultural question. Hitherto, I have had an unexpressed
+antipathy, towards farm work.</p>
+
+<p>"Strongly impressed with the idea, that a farm life must necessarily, be
+as dull as ditch water; I find Solaris a revelation, which has opened my
+eyes and scattered my foolish prejudices to the four winds. At every
+turn, some new surprise awaits me. My typical farmer, with his shock of
+untrimmed hair and beard, his stooping shoulders, his shambling,
+plow-following gait, his great cow-hide boots, his coarse, soiled,
+slouchy, ill-fitting blouse and overalls, his grimy hands, his
+ill-at-ease, uncultured manners, and his born-tired expression of
+countenance, I cannot find. In his place, much to my astonishment, I do
+find a splendid people, in the prime of life, lithe, active and
+energetic, in the possession of a superabundance of vitality, which
+gives them the graceful air of having grown to a perfect maturity, on
+the sunny side of life. What does it mean? Everywhere, I am politely
+greeted, by dignified, graceful, self-poised, rosy-cheeked, bright-eyed,
+happy, well-dressed, educated, refined and polished men and women. Can
+it be possible, that they are farm laborers?"</p>
+
+<p>"Every one, friend Gaylord! It is to rightly organized farm labor,
+properly supplemented by appropriate machinery, that these people owe
+the superior condition in which you find them."</p>
+
+<p>"You have surely created a new era in farming, Fillmore! Do you think a
+general introduction of co-operative farming, will produce equally
+successful results elsewhere?"</p>
+
+<p>"Much better and more satisfactory, George! <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_361" id="Page_361">[Pg 361]</a></span>Co-operative farming, even
+here at Solaris, has as yet scarcely passed the threshold of the
+experimental stage. Every new farm, will profit by the errors and
+successes of those previously established. Each one will add to the
+strength and working capacity of the mass. This improvement will
+steadily increase, until the children born under the new system, become
+its principal working factors. When that time arrives, the influence of
+the born and bred agriculturalists, will have grown so strong, socially
+and politically, that a new impetus will be given to the movement, by
+the favorable legislation which they can then command.</p>
+
+<p>"When we consider the future of the co-operative farm, as a working
+factor for good, in the affairs of the Republic; we can then appreciate
+the great importance of the movement. Stirpiculture, wedded to
+agriculture, ushers in a new era for the birth and education of an
+epoch-making race of dominant thinkers, so well born, so self-poised, so
+harmoniously developed, physically, intellectually, and spiritually,
+that without effort, they are naturally chosen by the masses, as social
+and political leaders."</p>
+
+<p>"What an enthusiastic dreamer you are, Fillmore! The picture of the
+future of the movement, which you have so graphically drawn, seems too
+good to be true! My brain is in a whirl trying to follow you! Let us now
+prepare for that promised ride."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_362" id="Page_362">[Pg 362]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XL.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE COMING ERA OF GOOD ROADS.</h3>
+
+<p>"Since our mobile excursion to the farm village of Fenwick, I have been
+haunted by the beauty, smoothness, utility and durability, of the
+magnificent highway, which now connects the two villages. I am more than
+ever impressed with the power of the co-operative movement, to effect a
+revolution in all industrial methods; especially, in travel and the
+transportation of farm products. Tell me, Fillmore! Do you think this
+road-building fever, will continue to spread with the growth of the movement?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, George, with every new road, will come an added impetus to the
+movement, which will insure a steady progress. The importance of good
+roads as a source of wealth, and a mark of civilization, is just
+beginning to be understood by agricultural people, and by rural
+populations generally. Oppressed on every hand by the universal
+extortion of railroad monopoly, they are slowly awakening to a
+realization of the fact, that the question of cheap transportation, is
+for them, the one, overshadowing question, which demands immediate attention.</p>
+
+<p>"As an object lesson on the subject of good roads, the introduction, and
+constantly increasing use, of bicycles, motor cycles, motor freight
+wagons, automobiles, electro mobiles, locomobiles, and the entire class
+of vehicles equipped with rubber tires, has aroused a widespread
+interest, which is prophetic of great results. Acting as a strong
+reinforcement to this educational work, the co-operative farm, with the
+advantage of its village organization, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_363" id="Page_363">[Pg 363]</a></span>representing in the public mind,
+such an attractive combination of agricultural, industrial and social
+life; will by the force of example, give an additional impetus to the
+systematic construction of broad, permanent highways; that shall prove a
+source of pride, to the community through which they pass; roads, that
+shall last for centuries.</p>
+
+<p>"Reacting favorably, in broadening the mission of the co-operative
+farm-village, with its promise of permanent homes, and employment for
+the unemployed, and the homeless; the continuous construction of these
+free avenues of travel and transportation, will soon affect the status
+of all rural populations, by vastly increasing their wealth and power.
+For them, the vexed problem of transportation, will be solved. They will
+discover by actual experience, that these wide, durable wagon roads,
+will connect them with distant centers of traffic, and serve them better
+and more honestly, than steam railroads; that in cost of construction
+and repair, they are much cheaper; that when constructed, they belong to
+the people as absolutely, free highways; that no greedy corporation, can
+control them; that no threatening, irritating, lawless force, of
+Pinkerton's armed thugs, is required to protect them; and finally, that
+they offer every inducement to unfettered genius, to invent and to
+freely exploit, better and cheaper vehicles.</p>
+
+<p>"As one grand result of this combined educational work, rural life will
+become exceedingly desirable and charming. The great city, will lose its
+attractive force. The tide of migration, will flow back to the pure air,
+invigorating sunshine, blue sky, and the verdure-clad hills of the
+country. In a general way, we may predict, that a few years hence,
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_364" id="Page_364">[Pg 364]</a></span>everywhere throughout this broad land, we shall find picturesque,
+prosperous, well populated villages. As the minor centers of education,
+art-culture, refinement, amusement, progressive race-culture, scientific
+agriculture, esthetic, social and co-operative life; they will be
+embroidered, like a vast net-work of shining pearls, on a perfect system
+of broad, smooth, highways. In their construction, ornamentation and
+maintenance, these good roads will utilize and express, the pride,
+energy and best inventive genius, of the village centers thus linked
+together. As a result, the Republic will be gridironed with a superb
+system of free highways, more permanent, more perfect, and more
+beautiful, than those old, historic, Roman roads, which even now are
+existing monuments to the solid character of Roman civilization.</p>
+
+<p>"This imperial road system will be complete, when the co-operative farm
+has reached every township in the union. Then, we may calculate the
+results, which are to follow. Broad, tree-shaded, park-lined,
+flower-bordered boulevards, will connect New York with San Francisco;
+Galveston with Saint Paul; Portland, Maine, with Portland, Oregon; Los
+Angeles with Saint Louis; Boston with Buffalo, Philadelphia, and
+Baltimore with Jacksonville, Florida; New Orleans with Cincinnati and
+Chicago; the wonders of Yellowstone Park, with the crags and glens of
+the White Mountains, Niagara Falls, with the Grand Canon of the
+Colorado; the orange groves of Florida and California, with the
+picturesque, cool, invigorating, health resorts of Lake Superior; the
+wheat fields of the great Northwest, with the coal mines of
+Pennsylvania; Washington, the nation's capital, with every seaside
+resort, every mountain view, every beautiful city, every healing
+spring,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_365" id="Page_365">[Pg 365]</a></span> and every hamlet and village of the Republic.</p>
+
+<p>"Pulsing with a new tide of social and industrial life, flowing through
+the arteries of this unequaled system of great highways; all of these
+places, both great and small, will become more closely bound together,
+by the links of a new social order; representing the beginning of a
+higher civilization. Then, these beautiful highways, will be glorified
+and appreciated by mankind, as the monumental work of one, broad system,
+of co-operative farm villages. Then, these villages, which have made
+such a system possible, may collectively claim the proud distinction, of
+being known as the Nation's Committee on Good Roads."</p>
+
+<p>"Excellent! Most excellent! Fillmore. Your prophetic vision, with the
+vastness and the brilliancy of its sweeping scope, fairly takes my
+breath! Yet, I must confess, that judging from the masterly system of
+road-building inaugurated by Solaris and Fenwick, the evolutionary
+results which you so confidently predict, are both reasonable and
+logical. What additional results, do you claim for the system?"</p>
+
+<p>"At this time, George, neither tongue nor pen, may attempt to describe
+the marvelous results which will follow the introduction of an era of
+good roads. In a brief way, I will try to give a few of the most
+important. In the matter of travel and transportation, these free
+highways, will annually, save millions of dollars to citizens of the
+Republic, by enabling them to escape from the clutches of the largest
+and most powerful of all monopolies; the railway monopoly. A monopoly,
+that for many years, has held the public by the throat; exacting a
+tariff so exorbitant, as to be almost prohibitory. A <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_366" id="Page_366">[Pg 366]</a></span>monopoly, which
+has had the amazing gall to pose as the farmer's especial benefactor. A
+monopoly, that while so posing, has robbed the country of one-half its
+wealth, by transferring the same to cities. A monopoly, that in the name
+of good business, has had the stupidity to decree through its tariff
+schedule, that miles and miles of empty freight cars, shall daily,
+throughout the land, roll past hundreds of thousands of farms, where
+countless tons of heavy freight, in the way of fresh vegetables, lie
+rotting for the want of a market. A monopoly, that never neglects an
+opportunity for fleecing the public. A monopoly, so unscrupulous, that
+for the pork trust, it will haul a hog across the continent for ninety
+cents; while for indifferent service, it dares to charge the people,
+from two and one-half, to five cents per mile.</p>
+
+<p>"And yet, George, just think of it! In the beginning, this monopoly was
+chartered to serve the people who granted the franchise. A monopoly, now
+grown so bold, that when the public protests that the franchise is
+violated, because the interests of the people are no longer served; a
+Vanderbilt railroad king, insolently replies: 'The public be damned!' A
+monopoly that has killed all healthy competition, by organizing all
+railroads into one giant pool; thereby creating the mother of trusts,
+controlling a corruption fund of enormous magnitude. A monopolistic
+trust, grown so rich and powerful, as to be beyond the reach of law;
+boldly corrupting courts, buying legislators, and turning the
+administration of justice into a farce. In fact, this monstrous combine,
+has become so dangerous to every interest of good government, that the
+law of self-preservation demands that it shall be speedily wiped out, by
+the government ownership of all railroads.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_367" id="Page_367">[Pg 367]</a></span></p><p>"We may now consider the ways and means, by which our co-operative
+system of good roads, can control railroad freights, and finally drive
+railroads to government ownership. Long before the close of the first
+half of the twentieth century, thousands of miles of these fine wagon
+roads, will be found in every State. Responding to the demands of
+legions of voters, who reside in the co-operative farm villages
+bordering these charming highways; a strong force of legislators, will
+everywhere rise up, as eloquent advocates of the good roads movement.
+Honest and faithful, inspired by a tenacity of purpose which will brook
+no opposition from railroad lobbies; encouraged and strengthened, by an
+ever increasing army of enthusiastic voters behind them, these tireless
+legislators will not halt, until the entire system of good roads, so
+well begun by the farm villages, shall be taken up, completed, and
+perfected by the State. Ten years of such forceful work, will surely
+accomplish the task.</p>
+
+<p>"Then, to the champions of the system, shall come their reward. They
+shall behold, flowing in mighty streams, over the wide, petroleum
+treated, dustless surfaces, of these far-reaching, absolutely free
+highways, the traffic and travel of a mighty Republic!</p>
+
+<p>"Then, will come the demonstration of what American genius can do,
+toward the evolution of a superior class of rubber tired, horseless
+vehicles, which shall prove the best, cheapest and most durable, for
+purposes of freight, traffic, and travel, on such a complete system of
+fine roads. The best of our present types, when compared with these
+twentieth century road flyers and freight rollers, will seem poor, crude
+affairs. The irresistible volume of this swift stream<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_368" id="Page_368">[Pg 368]</a></span> of the new
+travel, and the new transportation, eloquent with the progress of the
+century, will herald the coming of a well-merited doom for the
+monopolistic railroad combines.</p>
+
+<p>"Then, local travel and traffic, will make haste to desert the iron
+rails. Railroad freights everywhere, will fall to zero. Short
+railroads&mdash;branches and feeders to main lines&mdash;will become useless and
+worthless. Many of them will be sold at auction, for less than the cost
+of the iron in the road-bed.</p>
+
+<p>"Then, shorn of their ill-gotten gains, the mighty railroad kings of the
+land, will fall from their tall pedestals of pride, where for years,
+they have posed as owners of the earth. With financial ruin staring them
+in the face, they, and the whole brood of erstwhile railroad kings, will
+make urgent haste to sell to the government, at the bare cost of
+construction, such great through lines as may be necessary to maintain
+inter-state commerce, and across-the-continent traffic. Other roads,
+they may not sell at any price. A government for the people, and by the
+people, will have no further use for them.</p>
+
+<p>"Then at last, the supreme folly of having a half-dozen competing lines,
+running side by side through the same territory, will be fully
+demonstrated. With this demonstration, will come the opportunity, to
+scores of paid press writers, pessimistic bigots, self-conceited,
+unprogressive wiseacres, who have so long and so loudly derided the
+government ownership of railroads, as the most suicidal and unbusiness
+like scheme ever hatched; to answer this pertinent question: Would it be
+possible, for government engineers building public railroads, to ever be
+guilty of such monumental stupidity?</p>
+
+<p>"The social effect of these good roads, on the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_369" id="Page_369">[Pg 369]</a></span> lives of all
+agricultural people, will prove even more important than the financial
+advantages gained. Hitherto, they have been so hampered by environments,
+by lack of means, and lack of leisure, that as a class they have been
+unable to enjoy or to appreciate the wonderful, the educational, the
+broadening and the refining effect of much travel, on the mind of the
+individual. From lack of experience, they do not realize that the sum of
+human life is the sum of its sensations, which are produced by change of
+environment, contact with a larger or lesser series of natural
+phenomena, and more especially with other lives.</p>
+
+<p>"The more progressive lessons of life, are learned from example and not
+from precept. Men and women, are only children of a larger growth, they
+are imitative creatures with a natural instinct to choose other, higher,
+and better lives as models. Hence the great value of travel as an
+educator. The larger the area covered by the traveler, the wider the
+field of experience and choice. Through the law of action and reaction,
+social contact with a multitude of actors and thinkers, refines the
+individual. A healthy spirit of emulation is aroused, which leads on to progress.</p>
+
+<p>"With the advent of a universal system of good roads, cheap travel, and
+a dominant combination of co-operative, industrial and agricultural
+enterprise, an extraordinary era of recreation and travel, will dawn for
+all rural people. Opportunity, leisure, and means will be abundant. All
+co-operative workers, can afford to take an annual vacation of at least
+one month. The ownership of a swift, roomy, durable, road machine,
+capable of making from twenty to thirty-five miles an hour, will be
+within the means<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_370" id="Page_370">[Pg 370]</a></span> of every family. In this private car, the family, or a
+select party, could easily and leisurely accomplish a five thousand mile
+tour in twenty days. Along the whole distance, farm villages, from
+fifteen to twenty minutes apart, would offer the travelers, machine
+supplies, repairs, and excellent hotel accommodations, for an expense
+not in excess of the same at home. Than this, no traveling excursion
+could be more delightful! For pure enjoyment, a select party of
+nineteenth century millionaires, could not equal it.</p>
+
+<p>"The enjoyment of such delightful opportunities for even a single
+decade, would make the rank and file of the republic thoroughly
+acquainted, with the soil, scenery, forests, lakes and rivers; the
+mining and manufacturing possibilities; the peculiar characteristics of
+the people, their local ambitions, political wants and future demands,
+of every state and county in the union.</p>
+
+<p>"Thus equipped with this important knowledge, each voter, both men and
+women alike, would be prepared at any time to vote intelligently and
+wisely, on every question affecting the welfare of the republic as a
+whole, or in part. Elected to Congress, these voters would appear as the
+ablest, most patriotic, most just, and most incorruptible body of
+law-makers ever known. Understanding the equities of righteous dealing
+between themselves as fellow citizens, they would be prepared to decide
+correctly on all questions of an international character, which might
+affect the interests of the world at large. This would be a
+demonstration of the rule, as to the formation of a true republic. To
+make the entire political fabric both enduring and progressive, the
+units or voters, must be well born and rightly trained. Of this
+training, travel is an essential part, which<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_371" id="Page_371">[Pg 371]</a></span> should not, which must not
+be overlooked.</p>
+
+<p>"As affecting their social and intellectual progress, these years of
+travel would improve all classes of agricultural and industrial people,
+to a still higher degree than the one achieved in political expression.
+A general interest would be aroused in questions of political economy,
+race culture, psychology, and physiology; geology, geography and
+history, botany, chemistry, and mineralogy; which later, would lead to
+close reading and hard study in the whole domain of scientific research,
+as the one sure method of increasing the scope of individual happiness.
+Every succeeding year of this travel-training, would result in binding
+all classes still more firmly together, into one harmonious, homogeneous
+mass. Now George, tell me what you think of the good-roads question! Is
+it not one affecting the vital interests of humanity to a marvelous extent?"</p>
+
+<p>"Marvelous, Fillmore! Most marvelous! Hereafter, you can count on me as
+an enthusiastic advocate. I cannot say too much in its favor."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XLI.</h2>
+
+<h3>CO-OPERATIVE ETHICS.</h3>
+
+<p>"Speaking of wages," said George Gaylord, "did I understand you to say,
+that all of the co-operators at Solaris receive the same pay?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, George, equal wages for all classes of workers, is the motto at
+Solaris. Recognizing the solidarity of the interests of society, simple
+justice demands the same rate of pay for each member of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_372" id="Page_372">[Pg 372]</a></span> company;
+without regard to sex, or particular qualification."</p>
+
+<p>"It seems to me, Fillmore, that justice would demand that each one
+should be paid according to skill and capacity. I cannot understand, how
+anyone capable of being a foreman, would be content to accept, as a just
+equivalent for his services, a compensation as low as that awarded to
+the least capable worker in the colony."</p>
+
+<p>"I think I shall be able to convince you, George, that a correct view of
+this question, is largely a matter of education. You have, perhaps
+unconsciously, voiced the usual argument against the equity of equality,
+which is made by the champions of the competitive system. Our people
+have learned from experience, that the co-operative farm movement is a
+leveling up process, which purposes to raise the weaker units, to the
+condition of the higher. They have learned, that society is a purely
+co-operative institution. They have learned, that the wants of society,
+create value for the products of labor. Society, then, is labor's
+market. In this market, the wants of the weaker units, are just as
+important, as are those of the stronger. Stimulated by the number and
+variety of these wants, inventive genius has given to us tools and
+machinery, which have increased, at least one hundred fold, the capacity
+of labor to produce. In the creation of tools and machinery, the mental
+acuteness and inventive skill of the weaker unit, often surpasses that
+of the stronger. It follows, then, that each one of the weaker units, is
+justly entitled to an equal share of the advantages which are conferred
+on labor by society, with its market and equipment of tools and
+machinery. These advantages, make the productive<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_373" id="Page_373">[Pg 373]</a></span> work of all classes,
+nearly equal. Let us try to find the real difference, between the daily
+labor products of the strongest and the weakest workers. Let us consider
+present conditions here at Solaris, as an illustration. Let us take one
+hundred dollars, as the value of the product of one day's labor, by an
+average person, plus the advantage of such superior social organization,
+training, tools and equipment, as Solaris can now furnish. On the other
+hand, let us take fifty cents, as the value of one day's labor, by the
+strongest, most capable worker, when isolated from his fellows, and from
+all social organization, with its tools and equipment. Under the
+circumstances, allowing that the strongest could produce twice as much
+as the weakest, we should have twenty-five cents, as the value of the
+daily product of the weakest worker. These sums, compared with one
+hundred dollars, would give us the exact difference between the
+strongest and the weakest, under the favorable co-operative conditions,
+existing at Solaris. A difference, so trifling as to be scarcely worthy
+of consideration, only one-fourth of one per cent. What think you,
+George! Where now is the injustice of equal wages? Remember, when
+justice is done, the mission of charity is finished!"</p>
+
+<p>"Your clear statement of the case, has proved a revelation to me,
+Fillmore! I am quite ready to acknowledge the exact justice, of your
+co-operative system of equal wages. I am profoundly impressed with the
+soundness of your argument, that women and all weaker units in the army
+of labor, are justly entitled to an equal share of the advantages
+conferred on labor, by social organization, and by the education,
+training and equipment, resulting from that organization. This view of
+the question, is a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_374" id="Page_374">[Pg 374]</a></span> new one to me. It places the whole subject, in quite
+a different light. By the aid of this light, I am beginning to
+understand something of the intricacy and force, of this co-operative
+machine, which we call society; and how much it affects the question of labor and wages.</p>
+
+<p>"My experience with co-operative farming here at Solaris, is beginning
+to bear fruit. Under your instruction, friend Flagg, I think I can now
+understand the wide difference, between the competitive and the
+co-operative systems of organized labor. The former, benefits the few at
+the expense of the many. The latter, raises the individual, by
+benefiting the mass. The first, seems to be a constant menace, which
+threatens the peace, welfare and stability of society; clearly making
+for evil. The second, striving for the interests of all, builds up,
+strengthens and purifies the weaker units; unmistakably making for good.
+The results seem to marshal themselves on the side of co-operation, for
+the purpose of demonstrating the truth of its shibboleth, that the
+injury or weakness of one, is the concern of all. In other words, to
+raise the lower strata of society, means a corresponding elevation for
+the upper. The average morality, happiness and prosperity of society, is
+measured by the morality, happiness and prosperity of its weaker units.
+Tell me, Fillmore, does the acceptance and advocacy of this view of the
+relations existing between labor and society, make one a socialist?"</p>
+
+<p>"They surely do, George! They make you a socialist of the most
+progressive type. I am both surprised and delighted, to find how well
+you have learned the lesson of co-operation."</p>
+
+<p>"If the co-operators at Solaris, are socialists, then<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_375" id="Page_375">[Pg 375]</a></span> they must be good
+people. I am perfectly willing to be classed with them. At all events, I
+am a thorough convert to the co-operative system. I can now understand
+the scope and significance of the work; and why it is, that the Solaris
+workers, are so much superior to any farm people I have ever known. I
+begin to perceive that the success of the co-operative farm, means the
+regeneration of society.</p>
+
+<p>"This morning, Fillmore, under the guidance of Miss Houghton, I visited
+the kindergarten, the schools, the club rooms and the theatre. I was
+amazed, to find such a magnificent system of education and amusement, in
+successful operation, for the benefit of a farm village. Indeed! A city
+of fifty thousand people, would be very fortunate, in the possession of
+such a fine one! How did you manage to make it possible?"</p>
+
+<p>"In carrying out the wise plans of Fennimore Fenwick, you behold to-day,
+the result of combined co-operative agriculture and stirpiculture, which
+affords to our people, and to their children, conditions for education
+and amusement, fully equal to anything, money can procure for the
+wealthy. Children born at Solaris, under carefully prepared conditions
+for a perfect motherhood, are endowed with a precious birth-right, far
+superior to anything heretofore known to heirs of wealth. The system is
+being constantly improved. As it now stands, I consider it the crowning
+success of the co-operative movement.</p>
+
+<p>"Speaking of Miss Houghton, George, reminds me of a question! You have
+yet to tell me, the result of your first interview with her. Did she
+seem to blame you so very much, for not answering her mother's letter?"</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_376" id="Page_376">[Pg 376]</a></span></p><p>"Oh! no! She was kindness personified. She hastened to assure me that,
+in the light of subsequent events, she came to understand the whole
+situation. It appears, that after writing the letter in question, her
+mother grew very much better. In this improved state, she lingered for
+some time, and did not die until several weeks after Miss Houghton had
+read to her, the notice of my mother's death, which came to them through
+the columns of an occasional New England newspaper.</p>
+
+<p>"Having answered your question, Fillmore, I will now return to the
+subject of my visit to the schools. The interest manifested by both
+children and teachers is something to be proud of. The amount of general
+information of a practical character, which the pupils have acquired,
+even in the lower classes, is quite surprising. This is especially
+noticeable, in the ready knowledge they display, regarding current
+political events; including the personal history, character and ability,
+of the various political leaders. Is it wise, to devote so much time to
+teaching politics; and to commence this teaching with children so young?
+Do you really consider it so very important?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, George, it is a matter of the utmost importance! A republic of
+ignorant people, is a republic only in name; in reality, it is an
+oligarchy. On the contrary, a true republic, is one in which all its
+units or voters, are so educated, that they are familiar with the theory
+and practice of government. They must know that true government is a
+co-operative institution, which must guard and protect with exact
+justice, the interests of all of the governed. They must know, the
+extent and condition of the agricultural, manufacturing, commercial,
+mineral and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_377" id="Page_377">[Pg 377]</a></span> lumbering resources of the country. They should understand
+diplomatic, domestic and foreign relations. They should know every
+detail, of the educational, financial and political wants of the masses,
+in the domain of each State or Territory. Finally, they must be familiar
+with the character, trustworthiness and ability, of all political
+leaders. Children of the co-operative farm, are educated and trained, in
+a manner that will best fit them to become true citizens of such a
+republic. This is why, a practical, political education, to be
+successful, must become a matter of interest to the children while they
+are young. They will then learn, that a true republic, is a co-operative
+machine, which cannot run smoothly, while one imperfect cog remains to
+retard the action of its wheels. This valuable lesson, they cannot learn
+too soon. What think you, friend Gaylord?"</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot quite agree with you in this matter, Fillmore! I think it
+would be far wiser, while they are so young, to teach these children
+such lessons as will give them the ground work for a sound religious
+faith. Then they will understand the first importance, of being prepared
+to save their own souls. Later, in the closing school years, they could
+be taught your progressive, political scheme, which I think is a
+remarkably good one."</p>
+
+<p>"Stop one moment, George! I see Miss Houghton is coming. She will be
+delighted with an opportunity to answer some of your objections, to the
+co-operative code of ethics, evolved by the people of Solaris."</p>
+
+<p>"You are a welcome visitor, Miss Houghton! You have arrived, just in the
+nick of time! Our mutual friend here, Mr. Gaylord, has been telling me
+of his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_378" id="Page_378">[Pg 378]</a></span> visit to our schools, under your guidance. While he praises the
+wonderful progress made by the pupils; he seems to think, that we teach
+too much politics and too little religion."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Miss Houghton!" said George Gaylord, "I assure you, that I
+was not indulging the spirit of fault finding! Allow me to explain! I
+had reached a point in our discussion, where I was about to remark, that
+since Adam's time, the people of the world have been born, heirs to the
+dominancy of total depravity. With this heritage, we are as prone to
+sin, as are the sparks to fly upward. Under such circumstances, it would
+surely be the height of folly, to attempt to overcome this natural
+tendency toward evil, without the aid of the strong arm of the church,
+with its broad mantle of christian faith and saving grace."</p>
+
+<p>"I grant you, Mr. Gaylord, that with your peculiar training, such a
+conclusion would be quite natural."</p>
+
+<p>"Now, Mr. Flagg! I have a word for you! We must make every allowance,
+for Mr. Gaylord's theological education. An education, that has filled
+his mind with somewhat distorted meanings, for the terms, religious
+faith, soul, sin, salvation, religion, total depravity and many others
+of a similar import, which theology has applied to man's spiritual
+welfare. Just at present, the difference between us, is wholly a matter
+of definition. When we have acquired a true meaning for these disputed
+terms, we shall stand harmoniously on a common ground. We shall then be
+ready to accept the higher teachings of the new religion. A religion of
+spiritual evolution and unfoldment, which responds to the progress of
+the twentieth century."</p>
+
+<p>"You are quite right, Miss Houghton! I am very<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_379" id="Page_379">[Pg 379]</a></span> willing to make the
+generous allowance you suggest. I think Mr. Gaylord would be glad to
+hear your views, regarding the practical teachings of the new religion."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, Fillmore!" said George Gaylord, "you have voiced a request,
+I was about to make. I trust Miss Houghton, will proceed at once. I will
+promise to be a listener, who is both interested and attentive."</p>
+
+<p>"I will promise one thing, Mr. Gaylord. It is this, before I have
+finished, I shall do my best, to convince you, that in embracing the new
+religion, the people of Solaris have devoted themselves to a system of
+religious teaching, which is far too broad for the limitation of church
+walls. That this new religion, is so practical, and so exacting, that
+its followers, if they are true, are in duty bound to observe it as a
+rule of life, seven days in the week, year in and year out.</p>
+
+<p>"As a primary basis, the new religion teaches, that all human life is
+sacred. That it is the highest expression on this planet, of an
+Omniscient purpose. Conscious life, or the capacity to become conscious
+of anything, is a Deific attribute. All knowledge comes to the mind
+through the avenue of the senses, or from sensations produced by contact
+with existing things in the domain of Nature. The domain of Nature, is
+the domain of the Omniscient! All real knowledge, acquired from this
+domain by right methods, which is in harmony with natural evolution, is
+Truth. Truth, then, is Divine!</p>
+
+<p>"From these broad premises, we may deduce, that to acquire knowledge, or
+to accumulate truth, becomes the highest duty of life, a religious
+activity of the highest order. To be engaged in the intellectual<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_380" id="Page_380">[Pg 380]</a></span>
+process of gaining knowledge, is to be engaged in a spiritual work. The
+intellectual process, is a spiritual process. By the psychologic action
+of the mind, through its sub-conscious functioning, all knowledge coming
+through the senses, first becomes the spiritual possession of the Ego,
+the Soul, the seat of consciousness, before it can be expressed
+materially by the mortal man. Hence, spiritual evolution, is a natural
+growth, a crowning part of physical and intellectual evolution. The
+body, as an associated colony of more or less intelligent cells, is an
+important part of the thinking machine. Body, brain and intellect, in
+their dual existence on the material plane, form an important trinity,
+which enables the Spirit to accumulate knowledge, and also to retain
+that knowledge, after the passing of the physical. To dispute this
+postulate, would be manifestly absurd, as the spiritual man is the
+conscious Ego, the real gleaner and possessor of knowledge. It follows
+then, that to be engaged in any kind of educational work, is to be
+engaged in a religious work of great spiritual importance. That, through
+proper intellectual training, we may obtain spiritual growth, rebuild
+the moral character, exterminate vice, and unfold the graces of virtue,
+purity, honesty and goodness. These are spiritual attributes, which
+embrace all there is in the domain of morals.</p>
+
+<p>"In appealing to the new religion, for a broader, truer definition of
+the term, Soul, we learn that Soul, as a cosmic unit of the larger
+cosmos, is the repository of infinite possibilities: That evolution is
+the law, by which these possibilities are unfolded: That it inherits
+immortality as a birthright, from the Great Over Soul, the source and
+center of all life: That, in fulfilling the law of life, by sojourning
+in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_381" id="Page_381">[Pg 381]</a></span> the flesh for a brief period, it cannot be lost, or become totally
+depraved; although the body, which is but its earthly expression, may
+become so debased by poverty, selfishness and sin, as to momentarily
+thwart the Divine purpose of life.</p>
+
+<p>"From the same source, and by the same authority, in response to a
+sincere desire for a better definition of the word Sin; we are taught,
+that the object and purpose of the existence of this planet, is the
+evolution and perfection of the human race. Human life, then, is the
+flower and fruit of the planet. As such, it is the direct expression of
+a Divine purpose. At the command of a higher law, this life must at all
+times, be treated as sacred. From this high rock of observation, we
+perceive that all acts, by society or individuals, which tend to
+promote, protect and purify this life, are helpful along lines of
+evolution; therefore, righteous and good. In their doing, these acts
+become the highest expression of a religious duty. On the contrary, all
+acts, by society or individuals, which tend to destroy, injure, poison
+or sully this sacred life, or to bar its ordained progress, are in
+themselves, unholy, wrong and criminal. In commission, these acts become
+the greatest of all sins. The logic of this deduction, is beyond
+dispute; because they are direct attempts to thwart the progressive and
+evolutionary purpose of the planet; therefore, they must be considered
+as sins of the first magnitude.</p>
+
+<p>"Second in magnitude, and akin to these in wickedness, is the sin of
+society against women. A sin so potent for evil, that at the behest of
+selfishness, greed and lust, government, church and society, with one
+accord and without a protest, join in denying to woman an existence of
+financial independence. This<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_382" id="Page_382">[Pg 382]</a></span> denial makes slaves of women, who should
+be noble, pure, self-poised, self-sustaining and absolutely free. But
+the acme of wickedness is reached, when this denial reduces women to
+creatures of merchandise, when every year, it drives unnumbered
+thousands of them to lives of degredation and shame; thus perpetrating
+the crime of the century against unborn generations, by tainting and
+poisoning the fountain of life at its very source. The new religion has
+decreed, that the mothers of a perfected republic, must of a necessity,
+be both pure and free. It purposes to cure this crime, by working
+through the strong arms of an ever-increasing series, of unselfish
+co-operative brotherhoods, where a progressive union of agriculture, and
+stirpiculture, shall provide for and protect both mothers and children;
+at the same time furnishing the ways and means, which offer an
+honorable, useful self-sustaining existence to all woman kind, be they
+wives, mothers, sisters or sweethearts.</p>
+
+<p>"Third in magnitude and closely allied to the first two, is the great
+sin of ignorance. The mother of bigotry and superstitious fear; the
+father of duplicity and craven cowardice! What we know, we fear not. It
+is only the mysterious darkness of the unknown, that is filled with
+terror. To abolish ignorance, is to make the mind master over matter.
+Mind is both the spiritual and the intellectual expression of the soul.
+True culture of the mind, is moral culture. It is only the well grown,
+highly cultured mind, that can reflect the inherent graces of the
+spirit, which mark all noble characters. To the individual, who has
+acquired a knowledge of the law of evolution and environment, is given
+the power to control environmental conditions; by wresting from nature
+the secrets of success, in feeding,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_383" id="Page_383">[Pg 383]</a></span> clothing, housing, educating and
+elevating humanity. It follows then, that to overcome the sin of
+ignorance, is to banish poverty. To banish poverty, is to banish want.
+To banish want, is to take away the very foundations of the sin of
+selfishness. Selfishness, is the father of a multitude of sins, which
+must perish with it.</p>
+
+<p>"From these premises we must deduce, that all educative work in the
+proper sense, is a religious activity, which makes us better acquainted
+with the relations which exist, between man and his Creator, the Great
+Over Soul. The spiritualizing influence of this intellectual work,
+carries with it the compensation of a great reward. It crowns the
+gleaner, with happiness of the purest type. As knowledge increases, the
+field of knowledge expands, the flood of happiness swells in volume. A
+long busy life on the material plane of existence, is far too short to
+acquire this vast treasure, which is commensurate with the needs of
+progress for an eternity of spiritual existence, to which, this life is
+simply the primary school. With a better understanding of the nature of
+sin, and of the alarming extent of its evil influence over human life;
+the new religion undertakes to bless mankind, by banishing ignorance,
+poverty and crime. To this practical, spiritual work, the people of
+Solaris religiously devote themselves, as being a life-work of the noblest order.</p>
+
+<p>"The three principal sins which we have considered, may be justly
+regarded as the parents of all lesser sins. Having given a few brief
+suggestions as to methods of cure, which are offered by the new
+religion; I am now ready, Mr. Gaylord, to take up the doctrine of total
+depravity; which plays such an important part in your theology.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_384" id="Page_384">[Pg 384]</a></span></p><p>"As the primary step, I will re-state a prior postulate, as follows:
+The spiritual man, is the conscious Ego, the Soul, or a cosmic unit of
+the larger cosmos; an indestructible part of the great life principle.
+As such, it is the repository of infinite possibilities, which are
+destined to be unfolded by the law of progressive evolution. From the
+Great Over Soul, it inherits immortality and indestructibility;
+therefore, it cannot be lost, saved, or become depraved. The mortal body
+is an outer covering, through which it must express itself on the
+material plane of existence. Physical, intellectual and spiritual life,
+are subject to the law of evolution, by which they achieve progression
+and fulfill the purpose of existence.</p>
+
+<p>"To assume, that the people of this planet, are born subject to the
+dominancy of total depravity, is to deny immortality, and the truth of
+these postulates. In denying them, it denies the existence of a dominant
+principle of good, and affirms the existence of a dominant principle of
+evil. It also denies all progress, all moral reform, every noble
+aspiration, every good deed, all evolution, all science and all reason.
+Where then, in the economy of nature, is there room or use for the
+doctrine of total depravity? A doctrine so pernicious, that in the
+mouths of its advocates, it has done more than aught else, to destroy
+the confidence of mortals, in the wisdom and justice of the Divine plan
+of the universe. To even assert its existence, is to question the
+existence of a universe, under the reign of justice, law and order.
+Evidently, the doctrine of total depravity, does not belong to the
+domain of fact. It is equally clear, that it must be a theological
+fiction. A sin of theology against progress, which in the dazzling
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_385" id="Page_385">[Pg 385]</a></span>whiteness of the spiritual light of the new religion, must soon fade
+into oblivion.</p>
+
+<p>"Can we teach politics to school children, as a part of our religious
+duties? Is a question we will now consider. The answer, will depend
+largely on the definition, which we give to the word religion. Let us
+try to find a true definition, broad enough to embrace an affirmative
+answer to our question. As a basis, we have human life as the highest
+expression of the planet. With the physical body, as the basis for
+intellectual evolution. With intellectual evolution, as the basis for
+spiritual evolution. Hence, we have as a conclusion, that the spiritual
+development and unfoldment of the race, up to a point where it can
+accept the truth of immortality, is the logical purpose to be
+accomplished by all religions. Reasoning from these premises, it would
+seem clear, that the practical value of any religion, must be measured
+by its ability to teach the people how to help themselves; how to master
+the great problem of physical life, by attaining perfection in the arts
+of feeding, clothing, housing, educating and spiritualizing the race.
+If, in connection with these solid foundations for a natural religion,
+we add the important fact, that this is a republic, in which the wish of
+the majority, should become the law of the mass; we shall discover that
+politics become the natural channel, through which the wishes of the
+majority are expressed; that corrupt politics, result in bad government;
+that pure politics, insure good government; that a wise, just
+government, is the greatest political benefit which can be conferred on
+the people governed. United, these conclusions give an affirmative
+answer to our question. They also tell us why, the new religion, the
+mouth-piece of inspiration,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_386" id="Page_386">[Pg 386]</a></span> reason, science, evolution and progress,
+should proclaim it a religious duty, to teach our children,&mdash;embryo
+citizens of the republic&mdash;every practical detail of pure politics.</p>
+
+<p>"What think you, Mr. Gaylord? Have your objections, been satisfactorily
+answered? Can we agree to accept new definitions, for the disputed
+religious terms, which we have been discussing?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am satisfied, Miss Houghton, that I have been quite too hasty in my
+conclusions! You have convinced me of the importance of teaching pure
+politics to children, as a part of their religious training. With regard
+to other religious questions, you have answered my objections in a most
+masterly manner! The practical religion, which you have so beautifully
+outlined and so clearly defined, seems worthy of all the eloquence which
+you have bestowed upon it. That dreadful doctrine of total depravity,
+which you have so effectually demolished, has always been a repulsive
+one to me! For years, it has been a tormenting theological thorn in my
+side! I could never quite reconcile its existence, with the overruling
+dominion of an all-wise Creator; the very embodiment of Infinite
+goodness. I may as well say frankly, that I have often tried to find
+some good reason for denying it! Now, I have found one, that will
+satisfy my conscience. With the vexing doctrine of total depravity
+eliminated from the religious problem, a definition for the term,
+practical religion, becomes much more simple. A new light is thrown on
+the whole subject. Just at present, under the influence of this light, I
+am inclined to think, that your statements and your premises, are all
+true. Granting this, I will cheerfully admit, that the people of
+Solaris, are nobly living practical religious lives.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_387" id="Page_387">[Pg 387]</a></span> I am very much
+interested in the wonderful claims of this new religion. I trust, that
+after some weeks of careful examination, I may be able to accept them
+without one single reservation. After that, I venture to promise, that
+we shall be able to agree on a satisfactory definition, for all disputed religious terms."</p>
+
+<p>"Bravo! George! Now, you are talking more like your old self, more like
+a reasonable man. You are making great progress, in mastering the
+underlying principles and practical work of the co-operative movement! I
+think, Miss Houghton, that you ought to join in offering
+congratulations. Will you not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Mr. Flagg! I shall be glad to do so! First, I want to compliment
+Mr. Gaylord, on his excellence as a listener! Then again, I wish to
+thank him, for his kindly summing up, of the impressions, which came to
+him from my rather long sermon on practical religion.</p>
+
+<p>"Now gentlemen, you must excuse me! I have an engagement, which demands
+my immediate presence at the kindergarten."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XLII.</h2>
+
+<h3>RURAL LIFE UNDER THE REIGN OF CO-OPERATION.</h3>
+
+<p>"I wish, Fillmore," said George Gaylord, "to question your statement, as
+to the ability of the co-operative movement, to check the rush from
+country to city life. The tide of the movement is a strong one, that has
+been constantly increasing in volume, for the past twenty years. I fear
+that even the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_388" id="Page_388">[Pg 388]</a></span>popular co-operative movement, will fail to turn the
+flood."</p>
+
+<p>"The thing is sure to be accomplished, George! But, to understand the
+workings of the underlying force, which shall make this change possible,
+we must first study the units of rural society. Of course, the financial
+basis of these units, must be supported by agriculture. Agriculture is,
+and must continue to be the main support of all rural populations. Fifty
+years ago, agriculture as a whole, comprised a vast collection of small
+farms and farmers. Then, the small farmer and his family, as the stable
+unit of suburban society, was financially and practically independent.
+Questions of over-production of food products, rise or fall in the price
+of exchange, panic in the money market, or an adverse balance of trade,
+disturbed them not.</p>
+
+<p>"Under the spur of necessity, and as a part of the legitimate farm work,
+the farmer and his family, in a crude way, practiced many of the
+industrial arts, such as leather working, harness making, boot and shoe
+making, cloth making, the carding, spinning and weaving of wool; the
+preparation, spinning and weaving of flax or linen fabrics; the
+manufacture of many farm implements, brooms, baskets, harrows, sleds and
+carts; tailoring, making all kinds of underwear, hosiery, gloves and
+mittens; linen furnishings, for table and bed, together with many other
+articles of household use. Often, the forge and the anvil, with tools
+for rough iron working, were added to the equipment of the farm. In
+those days, farming required a knowledge of the use of tools; the
+square, the level, the plumb-bob; the hammer, the saw and the plane;
+were as necessary to the farmer, as they were to the carpenter.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_389" id="Page_389">[Pg 389]</a></span></p><p>"If we carefully study the significance of these things, we shall soon
+discover, that in reality those farms were practically, combined
+agricultural and manufacturing institutions, which were self-supporting
+and self-sustaining to such an extent, that farm people were the most
+independent on the face of the globe. As such, these small farm centers
+were potent factors, in swiftly advancing the permanent wealth and
+civilization of rural society. Born and trained in this practical school
+of life; financially unshackled, therefore politically free; our farmers
+of fifty years ago, developed a spirit of sturdy independence, a
+patriotic devotion, a steadfastness of purpose, a self-confidence, and a
+power of the initiative, which made them the pride and the bulwark of
+the nation. They were the well trained, trustworthy citizens, of a true republic.</p>
+
+<p>"Evolutionary progress, moves forward by waves. The depression between
+the crest of the last and the summit of the succeeding wave, represents
+the transition, from one step of progress to the next higher. Therefore,
+periods of depression, need not cause alarm, they are in reality
+prophecies of progress. Let us apply this evolutionary law to
+agriculture and its people, as being in the transition stage, during the
+past forty years.</p>
+
+<p>"Since the beginning of the last half of the nineteenth century, the
+separation between agriculture and manufacture has been going forward,
+the gulf between them becoming wider and more absolute, with each
+succeeding year. Invention, improved machinery, combinations of capital,
+the sub-division of the various trades into specialties, leaving the
+worker, master of none; all have served to develop the entire system of
+manufacturing <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_390" id="Page_390">[Pg 390]</a></span>industries, to a degree out of all harmony with the tardy
+progress made by agriculture. The mining and manufacturing craze, has
+swallowed up all other interests. Like a whirlwind, it has spread over
+the land, drawing into the ranks of its toilers hosts of agricultural
+workers; thus swelling the army, producing manufactured articles, and
+correspondingly reducing the home market for such things.</p>
+
+<p>"These conditions have naturally produced a congested market. Logically,
+there has followed, periods of stagnation, labor riots on account of
+reduced wages, periods of enforced idleness, and panics in the money
+market; all culminating in a loud demand for relief from the burden of
+over-production, by securing control of foreign markets. So completely
+has the manufacturing craze dominated the commercial and political
+economy of the republic, that both leaders and people are blind to the
+real cause of the calamity. An aggressive and progressive minority begin
+to realize, that the laborer and the farmer are no longer free, that
+they are the slaves of capital with its factories and machines, or of
+railroad combines, which control all lines of transportation. But no one
+sufficiently understands the situation, to be able to answer why.</p>
+
+<p>"Now let us study the history of agriculture, during the past forty
+years. This trying period of transition, has been marked by many
+changes. The small farm family, shorn of its ability to manufacture,
+even in a crude way; for shoes, clothing, bedding and table linen, must
+patronize factories located in distant cities. In order to pay for these
+things, much farm produce must be shipped to remote markets. In both
+cases, such heavy freights, commissions and profits, are paid to lines
+of <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_391" id="Page_391">[Pg 391]</a></span>transportation, middle men and handlers, that at the end of the
+year, the farmer's net proceeds are reduced to zero, or at least very
+close to that point. If the farmer be in debt, he finds himself unable
+to pay the interest on the indebtedness. If the farm represents much
+invested capital, the net income of the farm becomes too meagre to pay
+even a moderate rate of interest on its cost value; therefore its
+selling value must shrink to the level of its reduced income. In this
+way a large share of the available assets of the small farmer, are swept
+away. The savings of years, are swallowed up and lost. Savings, that in
+the aggregate, amount to many millions of dollars. What has become of
+these values? They have been absorbed by the cities and the railroad
+monopolies, whose servants the cities are.</p>
+
+<p>"Four decades of this process, has robbed the farm-center, as a unit of
+rural society, of its former wealth, independence and power. Rural
+society as a whole, is no stronger than its weakest unit. This is why
+agricultural districts are depopulated, while cities are over crowded.
+These results are the work of the competitive system, with its wasteful,
+wicked methods of distribution and exchange, which so widely separates
+the farm and the factory, the farmer and the artisan, the food and the consumer.</p>
+
+<p>"From another point of view, we may discover that inventive genius, has
+added a long list of labor-saving machinery, to the equipment of the
+farm. Since wheat growing, has become the leading crop, this expensive
+machinery must be included in the outfit of every successful farm. The
+burden of this expense, has proved too great for the capacity of the
+small farm. It has encumbered thousands of them with an indebtedness so
+hopeless, that its annual<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_392" id="Page_392">[Pg 392]</a></span> interest swallows up the income of the farm.
+From these causes, a crisis in the affairs of agriculture has arisen,
+which has demanded larger farms, more capital, more brain force and more
+systematic, better organized, co-operative labor. Hence, the evolution
+of the bonanza farm; with which the small farm can no longer compete.
+Notwithstanding its many wasteful methods, the bonanza farm has been a
+step in the right direction. It has taught our agricultural people a
+valuable lesson, as to what may be accomplished by the combined
+co-operation of brains, labor and capital. It has demonstrated the
+necessity for the evolution of the co-operative farm. It has prepared
+the way for it.</p>
+
+<p>"With the advent of the co-operative farm, will come the beginning of a
+new agricultural era. The co-operative farm village, with its well
+organized, allied industries, will again unite agriculture with
+manufacture. The village will represent the new unit of rural society.
+This unit will be free, independent and self-sustaining. The occupation
+of farming, will be lifted into a new realm. It will become the
+occupation of the noble, the cultured and the progressive. The people of
+these farm centers, will form the warp and woof of agricultural society,
+organized as a whole. The presence of organized society, largely adds to
+the value of all lands and to the value of agricultural and manufactured products.</p>
+
+<p>"The brilliant author of 'Volney's Ruins,' well understood the force of
+this principle as applied to increasing agricultural wealth, and at the
+same time largely adding to the general prosperity of the State. In an
+essay published in 1790, Volney lays down the following principles: 'The
+force of a State is in proportion to its population; population is in
+<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_393" id="Page_393">[Pg 393]</a></span>proportion to plenty; plenty is in proportion to tillage; and tillage,
+to personal and immediate interest, that is to the spirit of property.
+Whence it follows, that the nearer the cultivator approaches the passive
+condition of a mercenary, the less industry and activity are to be
+expected from him; and, on the other hand, the nearer he is to the
+condition of a free and entire proprietor, the more extension he gives
+to his own forces, to the produce of his lands, and to the general
+prosperity of the State.'</p>
+
+<p>"Each co-operative farm, will become a new center of permanent wealth; a
+new center of social progress; of organized labor; of distribution and
+exchange. These new centers, by again bringing together the food and the
+consumer, will save millions for themselves, which under the competitive
+system, were thrown away in freights and commissions. As these farm
+centers continue to increase, they may stretch away in one unbroken
+chain, perhaps five hundred miles in length. Each link in the chain,
+will be a five or ten-mile boulevard. Altogether, forming one continuous
+system of broad, free highways, the finest the world ever saw! Aided by
+trains of horseless carriages, there will be developed between the
+centers along this highway, a new system of transportation,
+distribution, commerce and exchange. With the establishment of each new
+system, the co-operative movement will gain an added impetus. The
+centers of exchange, distribution and commerce, located in great cities,
+will gradually lose their dominancy. The long lines of monopolized
+railroads, connecting these cities, will as surely lose a large
+proportion of their traffic. The magnetic wealth and bustle of the great
+city, will lose its attractive power. As a consequence, and by the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_394" id="Page_394">[Pg 394]</a></span>
+action of a natural law, the tide of wealth and population, will flow
+back to the country; with its meadows and fields, its mountains and
+streams, its sunshine, blue skies, pure air and wholesome, enjoyable
+village life. Amid such surroundings, upright and just, fearless and
+free, the model citizen of a true republic, may find a natural home."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, Fillmore, for the interruption! I freely concede the
+desirability of the results, which you have so glowingly pictured.
+Nevertheless, I cannot quite agree with you, about the existence of a
+law, through which the tide of wealth and population will again flow
+towards the country. I am inclined to think, that facts and figures are
+against such a result. The statistics of the census of 1890, indicate
+that about one-third of the population, and over seventy-five per cent
+of the wealth of the nation, were then located in the cities. A little
+later, able thinkers and writers of the Josiah Strong type, proclaimed,
+that by the middle of the twentieth century, this would be a nation of
+cities, with less than ten per cent of its wealth and population
+remaining rural. As startling as these predictions are, I very much
+fear, that the logic of events favor their fulfillment!"</p>
+
+<p>"If you will give me a little more time George, I think I shall be able
+to show you where these writers erred, in reasoning from wrong premises.
+They have judged the trend of events and the probable results that are
+to follow, from the standpoint of the competitive system. A system,
+which they have accepted without question as a permanent one, never to
+be replaced by another. This was the fatal error, which has robbed their
+conclusions of all value.</p>
+
+<p>"In discussing the status of our great cities, these<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_395" id="Page_395">[Pg 395]</a></span> writers all agree,
+that they are a constant menace to the nation; centers of political
+corruption, which are in every way antagonistic to the letter and spirit
+of a republican form of government; aggregations of the most dangerous
+elements of society, which are incapable of self-government. These
+admissions have a wonderful significance. Let us examine them.</p>
+
+<p>"The question of society, becomes a potent factor in the solution of
+this problem. Society, like a great leviathan, covers the face of our
+country. Representing the aggregate of life, it affects all lives. As
+the social side of the body politic, it has the power to strangle or to
+nourish, every interest which is dear to those lives. Dominant society,
+is the support and inspiration of government. The excellence of any
+government, may be measured by the excellence of the society upon which
+that government is based. Under the standard of a republic, society may
+be divided into two classes; the true and the false. Reasoning from
+these premises, we may conclude, that in order to have a true republic,
+we must first evolve a true society.</p>
+
+<p>"The society representing the competitive system, has its centers or
+units in our great cities. Its votaries, are worshippers of wealth. They
+are importers of foreign fashions, and foreign ideas of government. They
+believe in caste. They detest equality. They have no love and very
+little respect for the equal rights guaranteed by the Constitution. They
+despise honest labor. They consider it menial, as a badge of servitude.
+They believe that wealth is a power which can raise the wealthy few to
+the dominancy of a privileged class. They believe that as members of
+this class, they can treat all other classes as servitors and
+dependents, who may be hired to do<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_396" id="Page_396">[Pg 396]</a></span> anything for money. They view with
+complacency, the crowded populations of our great cities. The greater
+and more dense the mass of people, the larger, more dependent and more
+obsequious the class of servitors. They are naturally, more or less in
+sympathy with monarchial and despotic institutions. They believe that
+the rulers, judges and law-makers, should come from the ranks of the
+privileged class. They are out of harmony with the republic, because it
+is the true form of a co-operative government. Co-operation, they hate,
+it smacks of equality! They are devoted to the competitive system. They
+recognize its power to maintain a perpetual warfare among competitors,
+which shall forever keep the main host in such abject poverty, that they
+willingly become slaves to the wealthy. Having lost their independence,
+the votes of these competitors are at the command of their financial
+masters. Than this, nothing could be more harmful to the welfare of a true republic.</p>
+
+<p>"This form of urban society, is the flower of the competitive system.
+The tendency of this society is to so engender selfishness, and to so
+destroy patriotism, that a multi-millionaire of the William Waldorf
+Astor type, deliberately achieves the acme of shame, by renouncing his
+allegiance to a country to which he owes everything. He expatriates
+himself, and flies to the refuge of a monarchy, to escape the honest
+burden of a just taxation. A taxation based on an assessment of less
+than one-third the rate, which is applied to the average farmer of the
+republic. One example of such ignominy, ought to teach every patriot,
+that the true republic must be built on the solid foundation of a
+society and industrial system, which represents justice and equality.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_397" id="Page_397">[Pg 397]</a></span></p><p>"Let us now question the co-operative movement, with the purpose of
+ascertaining its fitness to become the base of a new society, and also
+the proper foundation for a true republic. In a society growing out of
+the co-operative system, as our rural and agricultural societies may now
+do. We find the conditions are reversed. Labor, is the badge of
+respectability. It is the title to an honorable independence. In such a
+society, both men and women are free. All are co-operators, none are
+servitors. No beggars! No caste! The units of a co-operative society,
+are sound and healthy to the core. Co-operation, insures
+self-employment. Self-employment brings freedom, ambition, independence,
+self-respect, leisure and education; with all the comforts and
+refinements of life. With these insured, the co-operator cannot be
+bought or corrupted by wealth. Each co-operator becomes a citizen, who
+without fear and without restraint, may speak, write and vote, in
+accordance with the highest dictates of conscience. A healthful degree
+of honorable, self-sustaining labor for all, is the key-note of this
+social organization. Men and women are placed on the same plane of
+equality, financially, socially and industrially. For woman, this is a
+matter of the utmost importance.</p>
+
+<p>"Productive co-operative labor, crowns woman with a self-supporting,
+self-respecting independence, which emphasizes her freedom from every
+form of bondage. In this, we have a perfect demonstration of the power
+of labor to bless humanity. Progressive life and invigorating labor, go
+hand in hand. One is the complement of the other. Labor as naturally
+promotes grace, strength, virtue and long life; as idleness breeds
+helplessness, vice, disease and extinction. Here we discover the wisdom,
+and the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_398" id="Page_398">[Pg 398]</a></span> universal application of nature's law of labor. This law
+demands, that women who wish to become mothers of a dominant race, and
+who desire to secure perpetuity and progress for that race, must take an
+active part in some useful, productive labor. If we consider the
+significance of this demand, we shall perceive, that any form of social
+or industrial organization which denies this right to woman, or which
+takes from her the opportunity, the necessity, or the desire to labor,
+becomes her worst enemy, a foe to humanity, that is conspiring to reduce
+her to the degredation of a helpless dependent, a mere parasite. In her
+declaration, that 'The human female parasite, is the most deadly microbe
+which can make its appearance on the surface of any social organism;'
+Olive Schreiner has summed up in one sentence, the grave danger from
+this source which threatens the race.</p>
+
+<p>"The combined and marvelous effects of the co-operative system and
+society on the woman question, rightfully places that industrial and
+social system far above all others, in the choice of a secure basis for
+the foundation of a true republic. In fact, George! After carefully
+considering the bearings of the questions involved, I feel sure that you
+will heartily agree with me in the assertion, that co-operative society,
+is the very embodiment of even handed justice, in which the rights of
+all are considered. Furthermore, you will be willing to admit, that it
+teaches the value of labor, and how to discover its uses and abuses. In
+eliminating its abuses, it will appear, that true progress, is to so
+improve and increase the ease and attractiveness of all kinds of labor,
+that they can no longer be classed as toil, or even disagreeable tasks.
+This then, is the legitimate<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_399" id="Page_399">[Pg 399]</a></span> field of inventive genius. Success in this
+field is assured, because it is in harmony with all laws of progress.
+Every hardship, every difficulty and every danger, which is eliminated
+from physical labor, increases in the same proportion, the opportunity
+and the demand for mental labor. This demonstrates the action of
+nature's law of compensation, which in elevating the character of labor,
+maintains its quantity."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes Fillmore, I am convinced! I am willing to admit the truth of the
+assertions, which you have made concerning co-operative society, as the
+result of the co-operative movement. No doubt, they are destined in the
+near future to supersede the competitive system and the city society
+which grew out of it. As I view the situation now, that time cannot come
+too quickly! Yet, there is one point which still puzzles me. It is in
+connection with the rapid improvement of labor saving agricultural
+machinery, which, as Josiah Strong says, will soon enable a few farmers
+to do all the farm work, forcing all other agriculturalists to seek
+employment in manufacturing cities. How can you answer that argument,
+from the co-operative standpoint?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is a pertinent question George, to which co-operation can furnish
+many conclusive answers. Let us consider the significance, and the
+conclusiveness, of some of the following:</p>
+
+<p>"Under the co-operative system, every new labor-saving machine applied
+to agriculture, means just so much added wealth for the farm colony. It
+affords that much additional income, for active workers; so much more
+money to swell the annuity fund, for the retired members; so much more
+cash capital, for the sinking fund, with which to purchase, and to
+retain<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_400" id="Page_400">[Pg 400]</a></span> the permanent control, of an ever-increasing series of
+co-operative farms, for the lasting benefit of their people. With
+co-operative genius to invent, and an abundance of capital with which to
+buy, the advent of any conceivable quantity of improved machinery on the
+co-operative farm, would only serve to increase the wealth, leisure and
+independence of the co-operators.</p>
+
+<p>"Such well-conditioned people could not, under any circumstances, be
+forced to leave homes of luxury and refinement in the country, to become
+the working slaves of a manufacturing syndicate in the city. Indeed! Why
+should they? Why should these co-operators, or any one with the
+opportunity to become such, go to the city to accept an insufficient and
+uncertain wage; to be compelled to pay five prices for food, when a
+better and more abundant supply, could be raised on lands of their own,
+with less than one-half the exertion? Having good homes of their own,
+why should these people pay exorbitant rents to owners of tenement
+houses, for the poor privilege of living in stuffy rooms, choked with
+smoke and filth, and surrounded by the clatter, the strife, the poverty
+and the soul-wearing competition of the great city.</p>
+
+<p>"Why should they rob their children of health and happiness, by
+depriving them of a natural birthright, healthful exercise, free access
+to the pure air, the bright sunshine, the blue sky and the unnumbered
+charms of country life, with its fascination of ever changing landscape,
+a picturesque mingling of verdure clad hills, green meadows, shady
+forests, clear lakes and bold mountains? Why should these children be
+compelled to live a cramped, unnatural life, confined to the narrow
+streets, poisoned both<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_401" id="Page_401">[Pg 401]</a></span> mentally and physically, by the foul air,
+disease, corruption, crime and misery of the densely populated city? Why
+should agriculturists, who are independent co-operative owners of the
+soil, humiliate themselves by joining the vast army of struggling
+competitors, who throng the already overcrowded labor market in our
+great cities? Why should they be eager to become the financial and
+political slaves of the leaders of the competitive system; the social
+autocrats, who form the society of the 'Four Hundred?'"</p>
+
+<p>"Can a Josiah Strong answer these questions? No! Why not? Because, in
+blindly reasoning and writing from the competitive standpoint, he has
+quite overlooked the fact that agriculture is the base of all wealth. He
+has forgotten, that as a class, agricultural people who own the farming
+lands of the country, hold the key to the situation. Made conscious of
+their strength by co-operation, they are the most independent people
+living. They are in a position to dictate terms to all other classes.
+They cannot be forced to do anything, which they do not wish to do. In
+arriving at his conclusions, it seems quite probable that Josiah Strong
+has made the serious mistake of accepting as true, a very prevalent
+idea, that in due course of business, (competitive business) all lands
+everywhere, would belong to the city capitalist; therefore, that all
+farmers would then be tenants at will, who could be turned off the land
+at the caprice of the owner. In this fatal mistake, we discover the
+error which has vitiated all premises from which he has been reasoning.</p>
+
+<p>"Thanks to the forceful lessons, taught by Henry George, to which our
+agricultural people have given two decades of careful study. They have
+learned,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_402" id="Page_402">[Pg 402]</a></span> that free access to land, is absolutely necessary to a natural
+enjoyment of life. They have learned, that for this reason, those who
+own land are masters of those who do not. With a sturdy independence
+which should characterize all citizens of a true republic, they have an
+intense antipathy towards all forms of slavery. Determined to remain
+free; they have redoubled their efforts to possess, and to retain
+permanent control of lands, sufficient for themselves and their
+children. In this work, they have discovered that co-operation leads to perfect success.</p>
+
+<p>"In answering other arguments advanced to show why the city should
+dominate the country, and therefore absorb its population; the question
+of rent plays an important part. It should be studied carefully. The law
+of rent, is an enigma to the poorer classes, upon whose necks its yoke
+presses as a grievous burden. They sweat and groan under the burden, but
+can discover no way of escape. They must be educated. They must know the
+cause, before they can learn to avoid the effect.</p>
+
+<p>"Rent, is a legal harness which enables the capitalist who owns houses
+and lands, to bind needy people to do his work. Through the exactions of
+rent, he can compel these people who can least afford to do it, to pay
+his taxes, his interest on capital invested, his living expenses, his
+traveling expenses, his insurance and such wide margins of profit, as
+necessity, opportunity and favorable location, may allow him to take.
+Rent values, like land values and market values, are exponents of social
+organization. Human lives, enter into the equation of these values. The
+absence of people diminishes these values, the presence of people
+increases them. For this reason, rents are highest in great cities,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_403" id="Page_403">[Pg 403]</a></span>
+lowest in the sparsely settled country, touching zero on lands occupied
+by nomads. Land values, are affected in the same way. This will give us
+a clue, to the transitory character of wealth composed of values. It
+will give us another reason, for the shrinkage in value of farm lands,
+and the increased wealth of cities; which follows the migration of
+people from country to city.</p>
+
+<p>"We may now consider another important factor, which affects rent values
+in great cities. It is the spur of a sharp want, of the urgent necessity
+of helplessness, which must drive and control the actions of a large
+majority of the inhabitants. The presence of these elements is
+necessary, in order to create the highest markets for rents. The larger
+the throng and the keener the necessities of the crowd of bidders
+competing, the higher the prices they will pay for rent. Under the reign
+of the competitive system, this is a conclusive demonstration of the
+truth of the saying, 'That the necessities of the poor, are the
+opportunities of the rich.' Is anything further needed, to prove that
+the competitive system is the essence of a cruel barbarism, which blots
+the civilization and shames the humanity of the republic? Why not change
+it for the co-operative system?</p>
+
+<p>"Under the progressive and beneficent reign of co-operation, there would
+be homes for the homeless, land for the landless, work for the
+unemployed and independence for all. This would mean, a total absence of
+want; that imperative spur, which is so necessary to the life of competition.</p>
+
+<p>"Transportation and taxation, are two factors yet unnoticed, which
+materially affect rent values in great cities.</p>
+
+<p>"Taking up the question of transportation; we<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_404" id="Page_404">[Pg 404]</a></span> soon discover its
+importance. The great manufacturing city, is the center of a complete
+network of railroads. The inhabitants of the city, are at the mercy of
+these railroads. Nominally, they are supposed to be competing lines. As
+a matter of fact, by means of traffic association, they become one huge,
+consolidated monopoly. A monopoly so dangerous, so powerful, so
+unscrupulous, and so voracious, that it does not hesitate in fixing and
+maintaining rates so exorbitant, as to be actually prohibitory, at least
+so far as two-thirds of the city dwellers are concerned. Meanwhile the
+monopoly arbitrarily depresses rents and land values in the country,
+while it increases them in the city.</p>
+
+<p>"Let me give you an illustration of the methods, by which these results
+are accomplished. Take if you please, the case of an average city,
+factory-worker; receiving an average wage of one dollar and fifty cents
+per day. On this wage, he has a family to support. In the country,
+thirty miles away, he can have a comfortable house, with a nice large
+garden, for the moderate rent of five dollars per month. A most
+desirable home! But, here comes the opportunity for the railroad! A ten
+cent fare each way, six days in the week, would pay the railroad a
+handsome profit. But, a handsome profit does not satisfy a monopoly! The
+handsome profit must be doubled six times, before it will consent to
+serve the public! As a result, this workman, not having the ready cash
+with which to purchase a monthly commutation ticket, must pay to the
+monopoly, at its lowest rate (two cents per mile) the gross amount of
+one dollar and twenty cents per day for transportation. Subtract this
+sum from the workman's daily wage; there will remain the scant trifle of
+thirty<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_405" id="Page_405">[Pg 405]</a></span> cents, with which to pay bills for food, fuel, clothing,
+medicine and other family expenses. Utterly impossible! Even if the
+owner of the country house and lot, should consent to reduce its price
+and its rent one-half, the workman would still be prohibited by the
+railroad, from taking advantage of the reduction. He would gladly pay
+the ten cent fare, for then he would be able to pay ten dollars per
+month rent, for the luxury of occupying such a desirable country home.
+This would be a blessing to all interested parties; still, it cannot be,
+because the monopoly says no! Being a monopoly under the protection of
+the competitive system, its dictates may not be questioned.</p>
+
+<p>"Although, the case cited, may be duplicated a thousand times, every day
+in the week, in every large city of the republic; yet, everywhere, on
+all possible occasions, the common sense of the people is outraged, and
+their ears offended, by the loud shouts of the competitive leaders, who
+praise without stint the great usefulness of the monopolistic trust.
+Solemn as owls, with an air of great learning, they assure the people
+that these beneficent trusts, are the natural outgrowth of high-grade
+business methods, which must be let alone. Do the poor people, the
+farmers, the country land owners, and the working men, join in these
+shoutings? Obviously and most assuredly, they do not!</p>
+
+<p>"Let us now follow our factory workman back to the city, for the purpose
+of noting the effect of this monopolized transportation, on city rents.
+Baffled in his desire to live in the country, he seeks to make the best
+of a bad situation. As a consequence, he is obliged to pay to the owner
+of some tenement house, a rental of fifteen dollars per month for three
+small<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_406" id="Page_406">[Pg 406]</a></span> rooms; poorly ventilated, unfurnished and unheated. These rooms
+are so undesirable on account of difficult access, bad location,
+unsavory smells, and the immediate presence of other tenants in the
+house, who are quarrelsome, drunken, filthy and generally disreputable;
+that but for the prohibitory tariff maintained by the railroads they
+would remain unoccupied, even if the rent should be reduced to seven
+dollars and fifty cents per month. However, poor workmen receiving scant
+wages, may not expect to be choosers. They with their wives and
+children, must ever bravely strive to adjust themselves to their
+environments, which more often than otherwise, prove cruelly bitter and oppressive.</p>
+
+<p>"In the case of our artisan, who is a brave, industrious, hopeful
+fellow; after paying his rent, he will have left from his monthly wages,
+the small sum of twenty-one dollars. Providing of course, that
+throughout the month, he has been so fortunate as to remain well and to
+lose no time. With this amount, (seventy cents per day) he must manage
+as best he can, under such adverse circumstances, to feed, warm, clothe,
+shoe, and protect his family. With such a meagre sum to supply so many
+wants, it is impossible for him, even under the most favorable
+circumstances, to make petty savings with which to meet emergencies.
+When the misfortune of sickness overtakes him, the situation becomes appalling!</p>
+
+<p>"From this illustration, we may judge how much the city is indebted to
+the railroad monopoly for its high rents. To great cities, high rent is
+a matter of the utmost importance. Take all rent advantages from them,
+and the entire list of their manufacturing industries, could be carried
+on in country villages with equal profit. It is quite evident then,
+that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_407" id="Page_407">[Pg 407]</a></span> these cities are alive to the fact that rent is a measure of the
+value of locations."</p>
+
+<p>"Before going farther, Fillmore, allow me to inquire! Why could not
+these working men and their families, who are confined to the city by
+the high rates of the railroad monopoly, find cheap country homes near
+the city; say within a radius of from five to ten miles?"</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you George, for such an opportune question! Its answer leads
+directly to a discussion of the question of taxation.</p>
+
+<p>"A land monopoly, is more to be feared, more harmful to the poor and
+more disastrous to the interests of the general public, than any other
+kind. The worst form of land monopoly, may be found in full force, along
+the outskirts of large cities. These monopolies are made possible, by
+the unjust application of a faulty system of taxation.</p>
+
+<p>"As a preliminary step, a hungry host of individual capitalists and land
+syndicates, proceed to purchase large tracts of adjacent lands at farm
+prices. These lands are then sub-divided into villa sites, and into a
+variety of sizes of town lots. Prices are placed on these lots, which
+would about equal the value of the ground, when in course of time, at
+the edge of the city, they should be covered by dwellings or business
+houses. This accomplished, the holders like cormorants, sit and wait for
+the growth of the city and the efforts and capital of other people, to
+so increase the value of their holdings, that they can realize their
+prices and take their profits. These periods of waiting, may cover a
+long time, often, from one to twenty years. Meanwhile, these monopolized
+lands are kept out of use, because on account of high price, they cannot
+be used for agricultural purposes.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_408" id="Page_408">[Pg 408]</a></span></p><p>"Why can these land monopolists afford to wait so long? Because an
+inequitable system of taxation, discriminates in their favor; offering
+aid and encouragement for them to do so. Without this aid, it would be
+impossible to keep these lands out of use.</p>
+
+<p>"How can this happen? In the first place, these sub-divided lands, as a
+whole in large tracts, are assessed at the rural rates applied to unused
+and unoccupied lands. These assessed values, may be so low, as to be
+less than one per cent of the asking price of the lots. As time passes,
+they are liable to be slowly increased. Under such a discriminating
+system of assessment, the taxes that may be collected, are merely
+nominal. This unequal system of taxation, is applied, in a proportionate
+degree, to all unoccupied lands inside the city limits, which are held
+out of use by the land speculators.</p>
+
+<p>"How does this state of affairs affect city rents, and at the same time,
+assist in preventing the poorer classes from enjoying the advantage of
+country homes? First, it establishes a broad zone of monopolized land
+around the city. This zone continues to increase in width with the
+growth of the city. Scattered through this zone, are many tracts of
+farming lands in active use. For this reason, they have to bear an extra
+burden of taxes, in order to equalize the low rates on such large tracts
+of idle land. These heavy taxes are patiently borne by the resident
+farmers, with the hope of reimbursement in the near future, by being
+able to sell their farms for extraordinary prices. In this way, abnormal
+prices become firmly established throughout the zone; which like some
+great barrier most effectively confines the working man and his family,
+to the narrow limits of a city tenement, with its high rents.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_409" id="Page_409">[Pg 409]</a></span></p><p>"If a builder with some idle capital, should wish to erect a
+considerable number of modest cottages, within the limits of this
+monopolized zone; with the purpose of renting them to working men; he
+would find it impossible, or at least impracticable to do so. Why?
+Because he would have to pay almost city prices for the ground; then,
+having covered the lots with houses, he would be obliged to pay a heavy
+penalty for this outlay of capital, by the grievous burden of taxation,
+which would fall upon him. Houses built under these circumstances, could
+not be let at a rent low enough to be within the means of the working man.</p>
+
+<p>"The number of people who are confined to city life by the causes named,
+is very large. Just how large, I have no means of ascertaining.
+Families, who are subsisting on incomes of ten dollars per week and
+less, furnish a large proportion of this number.</p>
+
+<p>"We have seen that the disastrous crowding, the alarming density of our
+large city populations, is mainly due to two causes. High
+transportation, caused by the railroad combine; and an outrageous land
+monopoly, made possible by a bad system of taxation. We have seen, that
+this dense mass of needy humanity, constantly creates such a fierce
+competition, that rents must grow higher and wages must grow lower. We
+have seen, that the causes named, are steadily diminishing the wealth of
+rural sections, by transferring it to the great city. We have seen that
+this whole movement, which tends to transform the great majority of the
+independent citizens of a republic, into the financial slaves of an
+oligarchy, is the natural outgrowth of the competitive system. Taught by
+history, we know, that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_410" id="Page_410">[Pg 410]</a></span> as the oligarchy rises and reigns, the republic
+dies.</p>
+
+<p>"Knowing the causes which have produced these conditions, we are
+prepared to discover, and to apply the most efficient remedies. It is
+only by associated effort, that rural populations can successfully
+oppose the concentration of wealth in cities. The well organized mass,
+becomes a great power. The new century demands a new industrial
+organization. The co-operative system, answers the demand. It is in
+harmony with the idea, that life is the most precious of all things.
+Therefore, it recognizes that opportunity to labor, and to enjoy the
+fruits of that labor, is the highest privilege of life. Under the reign
+of co-operation, this is insured. United in congenial co-operative
+associations, farming and working people in the country, reinforced by
+large numbers of recruits from cities, may build up for themselves, new
+centers of combined industries, society, wealth, distribution, exchange,
+education, amusement and insurance; which will place them in the ranks
+of the self-employed, who are financially and politically free. By
+growth and expansion, these centers will become the units of a vast
+co-operative system, which must soon wholly displace the competitive.</p>
+
+<p>"The inspiring motive of this co-operative system, will be the elevation
+and perfection of human lives. To this end will tend the invention of
+every labor-saving machine; increasing the product and shortening the
+hours of labor. With the physical man thus properly nourished and
+developed; the intellectual and spiritual man, will for the first time
+in history, have the necessary conditions in which to expand, blossom
+and bear fruit. Under such circumstances, life in the country will be
+both altruistic and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_411" id="Page_411">[Pg 411]</a></span>idealistic. By comparison, life in cities will
+become a hardship which few will care to choose. The few, it may be
+taken for granted, will be so bound to the wheels of Mammon that they cannot get away.</p>
+
+<p>"The larger independence and better education of the co-operative
+majority of voters, will soon enable them to find a relief for the
+imprisoned populations of cities, which are now confined by the pressure
+of land monopolies and railroad combines. They will see to it, that
+these railroads become the property of the government; well knowing that
+they can never be made to serve the public honestly, until the public
+owns them. As for the land monopolists, they will find their holdings so
+burdened with taxes, that they can no longer keep them out of use. The
+erection of fine buildings will be encouraged. Costly mansions,
+dwellings, or factories, will not increase the tax. With these barriers
+removed, the densely packed populations will quickly expand. They will
+fly from center to circumference of the city. Later, they will be
+attracted to the country village, where more congenial homes and
+employments await them. Then educated and emancipated, they will no longer pay rent.</p>
+
+<p>"We have seen that the economics of society vitally affect the status of
+human lives; physically, morally and spiritually; industrially, financially and politically.</p>
+
+<p>"We have seen, that rural society, based on the co-operative farm colony
+as a unit; answers every demand for the protection and development of
+human life. We have seen that the inspiration of this society, is to
+secure for all, a lasting reign of peace, plenty, harmony and progress;
+a most convincing proof, that it is the ideal society on which to build
+a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_412" id="Page_412">[Pg 412]</a></span> true republic, that shall be self-sustaining.</p>
+
+<p>"We have seen that the perfect emancipation of woman, and the exalted
+motherhood, which is made possible by the advantages of the co-operative
+system, insures the permanency and the dominancy of a republic so supported.</p>
+
+<p>"In analyzing the workings of the competitive system, we have seen that
+its methods are those of war. In the never-ending struggle of competing
+strife, opposing armies of human beings slowly grind each other to
+death; leaving unaccomplished the real object and purpose of life. This
+enormous waste of life, violates every principle of a republican form of
+government. It aborts even the efforts of planetary evolution.</p>
+
+<p>"We have seen that the competitive system produces monopolies and
+trusts, with a constantly increasing tendency to concentrate wealth in
+cities; placing it in the hands of the few, who are the financial
+masters of the many.</p>
+
+<p>"We have seen that from the ranks of the wealthy few, come the leaders
+of competitive society, who make their strong holds in the great city.
+They are the shining lights of the competitive system. They believe in a
+constant warfare of competition, which brings suffering to the many and
+success to the few. We have seen that a surfeit of wealth and power, has
+made these leaders so despicably selfish and unpatriotic, that they are
+unwilling to pay a just proportion of tax for support of the government.</p>
+
+<p>"We have seen that the monopolist, encouraged by the sympathy of
+competitive society, endeavors to monopolize administrative and
+executive functions. By means of unequal rates of taxation, and more
+especially of unjust assessments, he is able to shift most<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_413" id="Page_413">[Pg 413]</a></span> of his taxes
+to the shoulders of farmers and small property holders in state, county
+and town. This outrageous evasion by the rich, of their just share of
+the burdens of government, is shameful to the last degree! It robs the
+poor of all protection, that governments are bound to offer! It is a
+crime against humanity! It is a sin against the perpetuity of the
+republic! It is anarchy! If a government is no longer able to protect
+its poor; then, such a government has forfeited all right to exist!</p>
+
+<p>"We have seen that a true government, republican in form, is a
+co-operative institution, which must be based on justice, and equal
+rights, for all; thus recognizing the common brotherhood of humanity.
+Organized and maintained for the purpose of conserving, developing and
+protecting life; such a government, would at all times be guided by the
+beacon light of the axiom, 'That the injury of one is the concern of
+all.' It would wisely measure its strength and perfection as a
+government, by the strength and perfection of its weakest unit.</p>
+
+<p>"We have seen that with members of competitive society, the accumulation
+of wealth, becomes the sole ambition of life; that they may enjoy the
+ease, luxury and social power which follows. We have seen that wealth
+develops selfishness and idleness. Idleness breeds helplessness, vice,
+disease, and extinction. The predominance of such a society, would mean
+the death of the republic.</p>
+
+<p>"Having compared the merits and demerits of the two industrial systems,
+and of their closely related societies; taking it for granted, that as
+the highest expression of social evolution, the republic must endure;
+which, George, do you think will prove the true system, the true
+society, that must predominate;<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_414" id="Page_414">[Pg 414]</a></span> that must naturally develop most social
+and political power; most perfect conditions of life; most happiness?"</p>
+
+<p>"There can be but one answer, Fillmore! The co-operative is the true
+system, and the true society! You have made it very plain that the
+republic cannot endure without them. It is equally evident, that with
+restraining influences removed, city populations in a large measure,
+will again return to the country for homes; attracted thither by the
+many advantages offered by co-operative village life."</p>
+
+<p>"Speaking of homes, George, reminds me that I must now confer with you
+in regard to a personal matter, which may affect your work and your
+welfare for many years. This is the fifteenth of September. You have now
+been in Solaris, a little over one month, with an opportunity to study
+the co-operative movement quite extensively. I believe you are in
+harmony with it; and can do a good work for it.</p>
+
+<p>"This office, as you know, is the present headquarters of the general
+movement. Tomorrow I am going East, to be absent at least one month,
+perhaps three. I wish you, as my private secretary, to at once take
+charge of the office. I can offer you a salary of $1,500 for the first
+year. The office staff is a capable one, which will make your work quite
+light. I have made arrangements with Mr. and Mrs. Gerrish and with Miss
+Houghton, to co-operate with you as advisers. Since the first
+establishment of the office, Miss Houghton has so often volunteered to
+assist me, that she is now familiar with the routine work. Finally, I
+shall at all times while away, be within reach by phone or wire; by
+which I wish you to consult me whenever occasion may demand. What say
+you, George! Can you accept my proposal?"</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_415" id="Page_415">[Pg 415]</a></span></p><p>"Yes, Fillmore, I accept without one moment's hesitation! I shall be
+delighted with the opportunity to work for the interests of
+co-operation. You may trust me to do my best!</p>
+
+<p>"By the way, Fillmore! I take it for granted, that before you return you
+will meet Miss Fenwick, and her friend Mrs. Bainbridge, if so, please
+present my regards."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not forget your message, friend Gaylord! Miss Fenwick is now at
+Fairy-Fern-Cottage, on the Hudson. She will meet me at Fenwick Hall, in
+Washington, where we are to be married on the twentieth day of this month.</p>
+
+<p>"The wedding is to be strictly private and informal, only Miss Fenwick's
+attorneys are to be present as the necessary witnesses. After the
+wedding, the customary tour will be omitted; leaving us free to remain
+at Fenwick Hall, until the inspiration of the moment brings the choice
+of some mountain or sea-side resort.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall expect you, George, to mail weekly reports from the office, to
+Fenwick Hall. Wire me for instructions, whenever you are in doubt."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall obey your wishes to the letter, Fillmore! What you tell me of
+the coming wedding, is glorious news! I congratulate you with all my
+heart, on your great good fortune! You deserve it; you have well earned it!"</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_416" id="Page_416">[Pg 416]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XLIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>A TWENTIETH CENTURY HONEYMOON.</h3>
+
+<p>At Fenwick Hall, in the early twilight of their wedding day, we find our
+hero and heroine, the bride and groom, now husband and wife. They are
+sitting side by side, hand in hand, looking forth from the large
+southern window of that magnificent tower room, hitherto known as the
+private retreat of Fern Fenwick. The outlook from that window was a
+revelation of beauty, as perfect as a dream of fairy land.</p>
+
+<p>As the twilight deepened, high in the southern sky, the full-orbed
+splendor of a September moon, glorified with its soft radiance, the
+marked beauty of the Capital City&mdash;the Pearl City of the republic. From
+the mysterious depths of stilly night, intensifying the soothing charm
+of moonlight; there came softly stealing through the open window, the
+balmy airs of evening, laden with the fragrant breath of a thousand
+flowers. From the Aqueduct Bridge to Fort Foote, a long line of
+brilliant light, with many a graceful curve, marked the pathway of the
+broad Potomac, whose unruffled bosom shone like a mirror of burnished
+silver. Stretching across the valley from distant heights, a fleecy veil
+of enchantment woven in the loom of mist, etherealized city and river,
+dome and monument, tower and steeple, cottage and castle; adding a weird
+beauty to the magnificent array of public buildings, which owned the
+Capitol and the Library as chief. Above and beyond all else in its
+unapproachable glory, the Dome of the Capitol in the mellow, hazy
+moonlight, shone <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_417" id="Page_417">[Pg 417]</a></span>resplendent as a matchless crown to the architecture
+of the Occident!</p>
+
+<p>Responsive to the spell woven by the fairy fingers of moonlight, in
+which soul and sense sink to the spiritual repose of that serene calm,
+where in silence, happiness of the purest type best expresses itself;
+these newly wedded lovers, living in the inner world, lost to the outer,
+remained motionless and absorbed in the ecstasy of contemplation.</p>
+
+<p>Fern was the first to break the silence. She said: "My dear Fillmore!
+Tell me, is this the beginning of some reign of enchantment? The
+culmination of love's dream? Are we waking or dreaming? Can it be
+possible, that this glorious moonlight, so auspiciously ushering in our
+honeymoon, is typical and indicative of its endurance, of its unalloyed brightness?"</p>
+
+<p>"My wife! Chosen one of all women! Your devoted lover for six years;
+having passed the stage of love at first sight, hopeless love,
+worshiping love from afar, patient love, love requited and love
+rewarded; I am now so happy, so unspeakably optimistic, that I accept
+without question the happy augury of enchanted moonlight, as being truly
+prophetic. Besides, having a wife so noble, so good and so wise, to make
+it possible; how could our honeymoon be other than the most delightful
+ever known to the history of love? You may trust me, dear heart, to do
+my best towards making that prophecy come true!"</p>
+
+<p>"In discussing honeymoons, even my own; I may not be permitted to trust,
+in what is given to me to know. As a maiden of twenty-six summers, now
+your wife; I know very well that a husband who is just, loving, noble
+and true, is the most important<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_418" id="Page_418">[Pg 418]</a></span> of all factors, in securing the
+perfection of the ideal honeymoon. That six-year ordeal of loyal,
+patient love, which you have so thoughtfully analyzed and classified,
+has made you very dear to me! In overcoming this ordeal so victoriously,
+you have displayed a strength of character which has commanded my
+admiration. You have been unselfish, courageous, persistent of purpose,
+trustful, thoughtfully sagacious, perfectly trustworthy, and strictly
+honorable. For these characteristics, so like those possessed by my
+father; I love you more than for all else. Since crowned with conscious
+life, my father has been to me, the standard of an ideal man! If ever a
+daughter worshipped a father; I was that daughter. In character, you, of
+all the men I have met, are the nearest like him. Stronger words of
+praise than these, the lips of a proud, loving wife, could not utter!
+Now Fillmore! My dear husband! I am going to kiss you, as an antidote;
+lest the fervor of my speech, should make you vain, just a little!"</p>
+
+<p>"The antidote seems to work like a charm! Yet, a speech so full of such
+crushing praise, coming from the lips of the loveliest and most
+thoughtful of wives, is very provocative to vanity. It makes my case so
+desperate, that it really requires heroic treatment. To make the
+antidote effective, I should say, increase the quantity of the dose;
+administer very frequently!</p>
+
+<p>"But seriously, my dear wife! I am overwhelmed by the tribute of praise,
+which you have paid to my character! To me, the character of Fennimore
+Fenwick, is nobleness personified! To have my own continually compared
+with one so exalted, is a very trying ordeal. I tremble for the
+consequences! I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_419" id="Page_419">[Pg 419]</a></span> am now so happy, that in the very selfishness of my
+love for you, I may shatter your ideal. To disappoint you; would be to
+forfeit my paradise! In times of trial, I shall appeal to you as the
+noblest and best of wives, to use your highest gifts of occult power to
+assist me in retaining your respect, admiration and love. Meanwhile, my
+dear wife! I shall cherish in my heart, the memory of your tribute, as a
+talisman, as a perpetual inspiration to live up to my highest ideal!
+Whatever happens, I shall be myself."</p>
+
+<p>"That, Fillmore, has the true ring of your natural nobility! Be
+yourself, and we shall be lovers forever! With that question settled;
+under the inspiration of this lovely moon, let us commence the
+construction of our castles in the air. In marrying a woman with a great
+fortune, you have pledged yourself to share equally with her, the
+pleasures, cares and responsibilities of her riches. Remembering, that
+henceforth, we are joint trustees, under my father's direction, for the
+wise use and distribution of this wealth. It becomes our duty to make
+competent and well-considered plans for the work. What say you, my dear
+husband! Shall we not do well, if we devote a generous share of our
+honeymoon to the making, development and perfection of these plans?"</p>
+
+<p>"What you propose, my dear Fern, will make me very happy! I shall be
+delighted with the opportunity to relieve you of a portion of the burden
+of your responsibilities, by sharing them. How, and when shall we
+commence the plan making?"</p>
+
+<p>"Before undertaking the plans, it will be necessary for us to ascertain
+just how much we are worth, financially speaking. For this purpose, we
+must make a complete and carefully classified inventory<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_420" id="Page_420">[Pg 420]</a></span> of our
+properties, both real and personal. This important task, we will take up
+tomorrow, working deliberately until it is finished. It is quite likely
+to prove a long one, bristling with interesting data, suggestive and
+educative, as to the extent of your newly assumed responsibilities.</p>
+
+<p>"After the inventory is complete, we will each in favor of the other,
+make and execute a will, conveying the property described by the
+inventory. Then, we shall be prepared for the accidents, emergencies and
+unexpected changes of a mortal existence.</p>
+
+<p>"Having disposed of the wills, we will return to the inventory. Going
+over it without haste, item by item. While considering each one, I will
+give its history; then, we will make a short note, embodying our
+individual ideas as to the best present or future disposition of that
+particular piece of property. These notes to be attached to the
+inventory. By the time we have finished this work, you will have
+acquired such a firm mental grasp of our financial situation, that you
+can advise me wisely, or act alone, as the occasion may demand."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, sweetheart! What of our coming conference with your father,
+Fennimore Fenwick? Is that to be postponed until we have finished the
+preliminary work, which you have outlined?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, my lover! I would not have you take part in the consultation,
+without first being equipped with this important knowledge. Besides, it
+was so understood, by father and myself, when we arranged to have the
+conference take place on the afternoon of the fifth day after the
+wedding. There will be plenty of time. You are perfectly satisfied with
+the arrangement, are you not?"</p>
+
+<p>"More than satisfied, my good angel! I can<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_421" id="Page_421">[Pg 421]</a></span> hardly realize my good
+fortune! I am eager to begin the work. What a delightful time we shall
+have! To have you introduce me to our wealth, by the way of this unique,
+honeymoon program; is something very like a fairy story! I could not
+devise or imagine anything more delightful!</p>
+
+<p>"Six years ago, at the time of our meeting, I was hopeful and ambitious.
+My heart was filled with an earnest longing for the fulfillment of my
+one great purpose in life. But, how to accomplish that purpose, was
+hidden from me by the veil of the future. Then, I never dreamed that
+waiting behind the veil, love was the goddess of good fortune, who was
+to guide me to success! It is the unexpected which always happens!
+Thinking not of self; destiny smiled on my unselfishness, and kindly led
+me to my fate! Having met you, I dared to love! Discovering that you
+cherished a purpose in life like my own, I dared to hope! Trusting to
+love, as the messenger of destiny; in the unalloyed happiness of this
+glorious honeymoon, I have reached the goal of all my ambitious hopes!
+When I reflect on the magical change of my environments, and the new
+career in life which has opened for me; I can appreciate the full
+significance of the miracle which love has wrought!</p>
+
+<p>"Knowing the importance of unselfishness on the part of the individual,
+as a necessary factor in the successful co-operation of the multitude; I
+perceive that selfishness must be overcome by a comprehensive system of
+education, organized for that particular purpose. The organization of
+such a system must be accomplished by a small number of enthusiasts, who
+are willing to devote their lives to it. This means, that they must be
+people of wealth and leisure.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_422" id="Page_422">[Pg 422]</a></span></p><p>"As an evidence of appreciation of responsibility, for my stewardship
+of the wealth which you have bestowed upon me; I wish now to declare my
+purpose. It is, to devote the remainder of my life to this educational
+work. It now comes to me, that this is the work described for us, in
+your letter, written to me over thirty months ago; where, in a vision of
+the future, you saw us united, side by side, hand in hand, fighting
+successfully against the poverty breeding hosts of selfishness. From the
+innermost depths of my being, I rejoice over this most fortunate
+opportunity, which permits me to take an active part in such an
+important work! My heart swells with pride and happiness, when I feel
+and know that I am to have the honor of standing by your side, in the
+fore-front of the fight!</p>
+
+<p>"I can now appreciate the utility of my long apprenticeship on the
+co-operative farm. In no other way, could I have been so well prepared
+for leadership in the educational movement. I have learned just what
+agricultural people need to make them perfect citizens of a perfected
+republic. A republic of peace, without a police; without the burden of a
+standing army, to menace and oppress its citizens, because they are
+already a law unto themselves, at peace with all the world. When I
+analyze the influences which have inspired and led me, throughout this
+extraordinary course of training; I recognize the action of a dominant,
+guiding mind; the far-seeing wisdom of my noble friend and benefactor,
+Fennimore Fenwick. To him, and to the spirit world, I shall ever be
+profoundly grateful! Is it not a most beautiful illustration, of the
+power of spirits to co-operate with mortals?"</p>
+
+<p>"Very true and rightly spoken, my prince of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_423" id="Page_423">[Pg 423]</a></span> husbands! I too, am glad,
+that during the six years of your preparatory training, destiny's
+messenger&mdash;love&mdash;has guided you so wisely. With your intuitive nature, I
+am not surprised that you have divined so clearly, the general scope of
+the life work, which my father has planned for us. At the coming
+conference, he is to unfold the details of the work. Let us well employ
+the intervening time, in doing the preliminary work; which, as you have
+so well said, will give us an added relish for the enjoyment of our delightful honeymoon."</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CHAPTER XLIV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE NEW CRUSADE.</h3>
+
+<p>The beautiful seance room at Fenwick Hall, was known to the chosen few,
+as the "Tower of the Psychics." In fittings, furniture, and equipment,
+it was much the same as the square room in the central tower at Fairy
+Fern Cottage. From the beginning, this room had been devoted to but one
+purpose; that of an audience chamber for the intercommunion of the Two
+Worlds, the spirit and the mortal. Every visiting mortal felt the
+presence of a refined spiritual atmosphere, a highly charged,
+electrostatic potential, which made possible superior spiritual
+conditions. In this room, Fennimore Fenwick was at home, to the chosen
+few of his friends on the mortal plane of existence. On the afternoon of
+the conference, we find our hero and heroine in this room, awaiting the
+coming of Fennimore Fenwick.</p>
+
+<p>While Fillmore was admiring the full length, life<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_424" id="Page_424">[Pg 424]</a></span> size painting of his
+spiritual friend and benefactor, which hung on the wall opposite the
+entrance to the room; the familiar voice of the original, through the
+trumpet very near, gave him a cordial greeting.</p>
+
+<p>"Bless you, my son! How glad I am, to welcome you to Fenwick Hall, as
+its new master! May your reign here as such, prove long and prosperous!
+In the enthusiasm of my fatherly pride, allow me to congratulate you on
+your rare good fortune, in winning the hand and heart of my daughter,
+Fern. She is a pearl above price! Ever love her devotedly, my boy!
+Cherish her tenderly, as the brightest jewel in your crown of life!"</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, Mr. Fenwick! For your affectionate and kindly words of
+welcome! To me, they are more gracious, more inspiring and more
+delightful, than words can express! They have so taken me by surprise,
+that I am overwhelmed by the strong tide of emotions welling up from my
+grateful heart! As to your commands in relation to my precious wife; you
+may trust me! Waking or sleeping, I shall never forget them! They are
+burned into my heart, by the intensity of my love for her, by the force
+of my lasting esteem and admiration for you! How can I ever properly
+thank you, my noble benefactor, for your great goodness to me; for your
+supreme confidence in my integrity? In return, I can only ask you to
+accept my pledge, to ever strive to merit that confidence!"</p>
+
+<p>"Do not thank me, my son! Thank Love! Destiny's messenger; who, as a
+reward for your unselfishness, has kindly led you to the goal of your
+present happiness!"</p>
+
+<p>"And you, my beloved daughter! Are you quite happy! May I also
+congratulate you, on having so<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_425" id="Page_425">[Pg 425]</a></span> wisely chosen a husband, who is in every
+way worthy? Do you remember the promise I made to you, on the night of
+my transition? A promise to bring to your side, a friend, a counselor, a
+protector, whose wisdom and integrity, should at all times, prove
+sufficient for the needs of the hour. Are you satisfied, my dear girl?
+Have I faithfully kept my promise?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, father! I am more than satisfied! I am a contented woman, I am
+very happy! The quiet delicious calm of my happiness, is a new
+experience for me. Heretofore, I had supposed that happy women must be
+vivacious and voluble, from the very effervescence of their happiness.
+Now I know that it is not so. Your characteristic words of praise, for
+the one I have chosen as a husband, have made me very proud of him and
+deeply grateful to you! In him, I have found the promised friend,
+counselor and protector; also, an ideal lover. But, my dearest, kindest,
+best of fathers; you know very well, that to trust you implicitly, is a
+law of my life! I have always trusted you! Therefore, I am not
+disappointed; neither am I very much surprised. I am just perfectly
+happy. That is the whole story in a nutshell!"</p>
+
+<p>"This is as it should be, my children! When I first saw you, Fillmore, I
+felt intuitively, that you and Fern were made for each other. I knew I
+could trust you together, to finish my work. Now, I rejoice, that my
+intuitions were so prophetic!</p>
+
+<p>"In your work at Solaris Farm, Fillmore, you have succeeded beyond my
+most sanguine hopes. I congratulate you heartily, my son, on this
+initial success for the co-operative movement! This is but the beginning
+of the work. As we go farther, wider fields are opened for more extended
+efforts.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_426" id="Page_426">[Pg 426]</a></span> You have already correctly surmised, that selfishness in
+humanity has become so dominant, so crystallized, from long centuries
+under the heartless reign of competition, that only a far-reaching, well
+organized, especially designed scheme of education, can conquer the
+evil. By means of this educational program, we shall be able to open the
+eyes of both poor and rich, to the benefits of co-operation.</p>
+
+<p>"It has been wisely and truthfully said, that: 'The destruction of the
+poor, is their poverty. That conversely, the poverty of the poor, is the
+real power of the rich.' In these two short sentences, we have the most
+scathing indictment against present social and industrial conditions,
+that could be made! These conditions are wickedly abnormal! They are
+entirely out of harmony with the law of progress, and of planetary
+evolution! To change them for something better, is the crying need of the hour!</p>
+
+<p>"It were a mercy to both rich and poor alike, to make them financially
+independent of each other! Then, freed from the thraldom of selfishness,
+they could discover and appreciate, each for themselves, the true object
+and purpose of human life. For this reason, our new educational
+movement, must be so arranged, that it may successfully appeal to all classes.</p>
+
+<p>"For the industrial classes, the agriculturalists and the artisans, we
+can use the co-operative farm movement as a basis of education. As for
+the wealthy remainder, they must first be taught to respect the
+sacredness and the true purpose of human life, before they can
+contemplate any form of social or co-operative progress, with feelings
+other than contempt, or at least angry opposition. This is to be
+expected. It is the natural outgrowth of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_427" id="Page_427">[Pg 427]</a></span> teachings of a society,
+which is controlled by the hierarchy of competition. Both the
+co-operative farm and the broader educational movement, are to be
+embraced by the work of the New Crusade.</p>
+
+<p>"The New Crusade, is to be organized, promoted and maintained, for the
+peaceful conquest of poverty; and the consequent banishment of ignorance
+and crime. These grand purposes, shall be emblazoned on its banners,
+appealing to the chivalry and knighthood of the republic for support.
+Never before has the bugle of the crusader, blown the assembly call for
+so noble a cause! Victory for this glorious cause, means a recognition
+of the true nobility of labor: The establishment of peace on earth, and
+happiness for all: An abundant harvest, for all productive toil: The
+sacredness and divine significance of life: The brotherhood of humanity:
+And the solidarity of all social interests. To the victors, shall come
+the well earned plaudits of a thousand future generations; whose sons
+and daughters shall chant the story of the unparalleled chivalry of such
+noble, unselfish deeds!</p>
+
+<p>"To you, my children, is assigned the task and the honor of inaugurating
+this peaceful campaign. From you, it will demand extraordinary activity,
+courage and administrative ability; reinforced by large sums of money.
+Fortunately, the Fenwick fortune is ample. Use it without stint. Fenwick
+Hall, is roomy and well fitted for the headquarters of the New Crusade;
+and for the housing of its organizing staff; which, from the magnitude
+of the work, will be a large one. A bureau of literature must be formed.
+A newspaper and a magazine, devoted to the cause of the Crusade, must be
+published. They must be the best of their kind. The editorial talent<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_428" id="Page_428">[Pg 428]</a></span>
+must be of the highest order, the ablest in the land. Every State in the
+Republic, must be made a department of the Crusade. A select army corps
+of teachers, organizers and leaders, must be assembled, trained and
+thoroughly prepared, to take charge of these departments. They will be
+the executive and recruiting officers of the Crusade; rendering weekly
+reports to the headquarters in Washington. Every co-operative farm, will
+become an outpost and a recruiting station; every State, a grand encampment.</p>
+
+<p>"In recruiting crusaders from the ranks of the wealthy, a special effort
+should be made, to have them take up the cause as a fashionable fad.
+They can be diplomatically led, where they cannot be coaxed or driven.
+In the face of any opposition they may display, it must ever be borne in
+mind, that the hearts of nine-tenths of the wealthy, are good and true.
+Their natural promptings are to do right; to use their riches for the
+advancement of science, and for the cause of humanity. They would do
+better, if they only knew how. They must be educated. The competitive
+system, under which they were born, trained and made rich, is at fault.
+By it, they have been taught, that poverty is a necessary and permanent
+state; to which, a large majority of the people of the earth, are
+assigned by the action of a divine law. Therefore, any attempt to banish
+poverty would be not only useless, but actually sinful. Nevertheless,
+prompted by a higher law, many of them annually dispense large sums in
+charity. Under the competitive system, charity only aggravates the
+malady. It is money thrown away! As the recipients are thus enabled to
+work for less wages; increasing the gains of competitive masters; and
+finally, swelling the ranks of the helpless poor. After a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_429" id="Page_429">[Pg 429]</a></span> few trials,
+even the most persistent alms-giver soon discovers, that as an antidote
+to poverty, charity is a wretched failure. Taking it for granted, that
+the competitive system is a permanent one which is to endure forever, he
+gives up the problem as hopeless.</p>
+
+<p>"It is to be the business of the New Crusade, to show why the
+co-operative should be substituted for the competitive system. It must
+teach the wealthy classes, the vast importance of the great lesson
+taught at Solaris. Namely, that by organized, unselfish co-operation;
+independent self-employment, producing an abundance for all, may be
+speedily and practicably substituted for every form of poverty. The
+Crusade must demonstrate, that ignorance, poverty and crime, are
+handmaidens, which cannot exist apart. That if one-half the money
+expended for charity during the past fifty years, had been used to
+promote co-operative self-employment, poverty, tramps and ignorance,
+would now be things of the past.</p>
+
+<p>"To the people of the republic at large, must be taught the significance
+of the contrast between the war-like competitive system, and the
+peaceful methods of a co-operative association. Co-operation, makes
+combined individual effort, equal to the wealth of independence. The
+co-operator, being self-employed, no longer strives to displace a fellow
+workman by offering service at a lower price.</p>
+
+<p>"Competition, emphasizes the poverty and helplessness of the individual,
+because it sets every man against his neighbor, against the whole world.
+The competitor deliberately shuts himself away from all gain that might
+come to him from the force and effectiveness of associated effort. He
+loses all faith in mankind; in honesty and justice. He views the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_430" id="Page_430">[Pg 430]</a></span> good
+fortune of a fellow toiler, as a personal injury, which he ought to
+resent. In fact, he becomes too selfish to even be patriotic!</p>
+
+<p>"The quickest way to convince the people of the barbarism, the cruelty,
+and the wickedness of such a system, is to establish a co-operative farm
+in every available township throughout the land. The free, healthy,
+trained, and well-educated social communities, growing up on these
+farms, will become the units of a true society; the underlying
+foundation, on which to build the true republic.</p>
+
+<p>"Society dominates the political expression of nations. It molds and
+controls public opinion, business methods and commercial usage. Under
+the reign of competitive business and society, the market is largely
+composed of small wage earners, whose necessities are so great, whose
+tenure of employment is so uncertain, and whose wages are so scanty;
+that they are forced to buy the cheapest of everything. On the part of
+tradespeople, the fierce competition to control this cheap market,
+encourages the use of an outrageous system of food adulteration, and
+with it, every possible degree of lying, cheating, fraud and deception;
+until the moral tone of both business and society, has become blunted;
+yes, well nigh destroyed. As a result of this shameful state of
+commercial affairs, the successful man in any line of business, can no
+longer afford to be honest. He knows very well, that in competitive
+business, he can utterly ignore honor, conscience, and self-respect,
+without losing the approval of competitive society. Can such a rotten
+society ever become a safe foundation for the government of a true republic?</p>
+
+<p>"It is to be the mission of the New Crusade to teach and to demonstrate,
+that under the reign of a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_431" id="Page_431">[Pg 431]</a></span> co-operative system, and society, these
+conditions would be reversed. All incentives to cheapen goods, or to
+adulterate food products, would vanish. The co-operators would then form
+the bulk of the market. Buying at wholesale collectively, to sell to
+themselves individually; they would be in a financial condition to pay
+remunerative prices, for whatever was genuine, pure, wholesome, good,
+reliable and lasting. Inferior articles, they would not purchase at any
+price. The demand for cheap stuff would cease. The dominant motive of
+the commercial world, would be revolutionized. Among manufacturers and
+producers, the cry would be, not how cheap, but how excellent, can we
+make our goods! The long-practiced, skillful chicanery of competitive
+methods, would be at a discount; they would be worse than useless!
+Honest men could then engage in business, without violating either
+honor, or conscience! Cheating and lying, would no longer form a part of
+the business code! At all times, and under all circumstances, to respect
+the sacredness of life, and the natural rights of man, would become the
+universal watchword! Justice would dethrone charity! The high moral tone
+of the industrial and commercial world, would pervade the social and
+political. The injury of the weakest, would become the concern of the
+strongest. The rising tide of humanitarianism would submerge poverty.
+The fires of ignorance and crime, would be extinguished by its conquering flood.</p>
+
+<p>"Than this, no lesson more important, could be taught to the people. The
+scales of selfishness having fallen from their eyes, they can be made to
+understand, that all of these wonderful things may be accomplished,
+quickly and easily, by the plain,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_432" id="Page_432">[Pg 432]</a></span> practical methods of unselfish
+co-operation. Methods, whose assured results are as easily demonstrable,
+as the solution of a mathematical problem. Once convinced, they will
+make haste to discard the wasteful methods of the competitive system;
+substituting therefor, the co-operative conservation of national wealth.
+In this conservation, the wealth of the unit, will be the measure of the
+wealth of the nation.</p>
+
+<p>"This conservation will usher in a new era, of the means of gathering,
+and of the higher uses of national wealth. A magnificent national fund,
+accumulated for the benefit, education, refinement and enjoyment of all.
+The swiftness of its accumulation and the magnitude of its billions,
+will become the marvel of the world! By contrast, all former standards
+of the wealth of nations, will fade and shrink to insignificance! Why
+must this prove true? Because, under the beneficent reign of
+co-operative equality, money, shorn of its power, would only be valued
+for its use. The store of national wealth, being for the equal use and
+benefit of every individual citizen; the incentive for its accumulation,
+would inspire all alike. As a result, the people as a mass would enjoy
+all the benefits of great wealth, minus its burdens, abuses, temptations
+and dangers. In this, any one of them might be envied by the competitive millionaires.</p>
+
+<p>"Among the many lessons in addition to those enumerated, which the
+Crusade must teach to the people; I would strongly emphasize the following:</p>
+
+<p>"That human life, as the flower and fruit of the planet&mdash;each individual
+being a microcosm of the macrocosm&mdash;must always be held as the most
+sacred and the most precious of all things. Because it is the object and
+purpose, the beginning, the expression,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_433" id="Page_433">[Pg 433]</a></span> the commandment and the
+fulfillment of the law.</p>
+
+<p>"That the law of life and the law of progress, are complements of each
+other. Like twin sisters, they act as a bond between the systems of the
+universe; they embrace all things, from an atom to the Infinite!</p>
+
+<p>"That activity, is the expression of life! Necessity and glory, are the
+two poles of human activity; its inspiration and its motor power!</p>
+
+<p>"It is the evident purpose of natural law, that the activity of man
+shall unceasingly produce for all, an abundance of the necessities,
+comforts and luxuries of life.</p>
+
+<p>"Ignorance, is the giant who bars the pathway of progress! Labor from
+necessity, reigns as a rule, in all ages of ignorance! Misery and
+poverty, are its children!</p>
+
+<p>"Labor for glory, marks the age of enlightened progress, where all may
+have an opportunity to express individuality, through their handiwork;
+to taste the great joy, that comes with the consciousness of
+participation in spontaneous, unselfish, intelligent activity, which
+shall insure the reign of perpetual peace and plenty. In this, man's
+conquest over matter, becomes the true glory of labor! In the variety of
+self-chosen, self-directed, co-operative, productive labor, is found
+life's greatest blessing.</p>
+
+<p>"Organized, unselfish co-operation, will teach the people to appreciate
+the dignity, and the true nobility of labor. From it, they will learn
+that labor, however simple or insignificant, is far nobler than any kind
+of enervating idleness; no matter how much that idleness may be gilded
+by the varnish of honor! Godin says: 'A day's work well done, is worth
+more than a whole existence of inactivity!'</p>
+
+<p>"Labor develops the possibilities of life! It is the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_434" id="Page_434">[Pg 434]</a></span> effective
+instrument which makes possible the progress of nations, the
+emancipation of peoples! The labor of passing ages has evolved a fund of
+ideas, best adapted to guide humanity towards a true interpretation of
+the object and purpose of human life.</p>
+
+<p>"Labor will cease to be a burden, when man comprehends its true mission.
+Stripped of its drudgery, released from the harness of toil and the spur
+of necessity, the brightness of the blessing of labor shines forth
+resplendent. In the halo of this radiant truth, can anyone be guilty of
+a blasphemy, which degrades labor to the penalty of a punishment.</p>
+
+<p>"The question of politics is intimately associated with the question of
+labor. The science of politics, is the science of life. Government, is
+its expression. Self-government by the individual, is its keynote. The
+study of this science should be pursued by all classes, with the
+enthusiasm born of a religious zeal. A few of its most important
+principles may be found embodied in the following propositions. If we
+wish to be able to take an interest in moral life; we must first satisfy
+the demands of physical life. If we wish to practice justice, we must
+first learn the law of Right and Duty; that is, in striving to satisfy
+our own material wants, we must learn how to protect the rights of
+others. We must remember, that they too are toiling for the same purpose.</p>
+
+<p>"In order to protect the welfare of each political unit, these
+principles must form the basis of all scientific politics. In the social
+units evolved by co-operative life, these conditions are embodied and
+expressed. In them, we shall find the basis upon which to build a grand,
+social, industrial and political organization. An organization, which
+shall truly represent Liberty and Justice; which, in its <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_435" id="Page_435">[Pg 435]</a></span>expression as
+a whole, shall be the government of the New Republic!</p>
+
+<p>"Co-operation is the foe of despotism! Associated, intelligent,
+political co-operation, is the educator which shall teach the people,
+that a true republic cannot exist until, in the minds of its leaders,
+every vestige of the spirit of despotism has been cast out.</p>
+
+<p>"In the accomplishment of this great political work, faith in the
+destiny of this republic, its people, and its mission, is to prove a
+most important factor. To endow a people with faith, is to multiply
+their strength tenfold! Faith, reinforced by knowledge, is an
+irresistible force, against which naught can prevail! Hence, it becomes
+imperative, that in each school and kindergarten of the republic, its
+children should be taught in broad outlines, the vastness of its
+territory, and the magnitude of its natural resources.</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot too strongly emphasize the necessity for this important part
+of the political education of children! As the future guardians and law
+makers of the republic, its children should acquire a thorough knowledge
+of the widely diversified characteristics of each geographical
+sub-division. This, they must accomplish, before they can be prepared to
+appreciate the overshadowing significance, of its past, present, and future destiny.</p>
+
+<p>"The kindergarten offers perfect conditions, for the introduction of a
+primary course of this political instruction. By using a large outline
+map, showing the geographical and geological formation, the mineral
+deposits, the extent or area of timbered and agricultural lands, the
+manufacturing centers, the principal wagon-roads and lines of
+transportation, the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_436" id="Page_436">[Pg 436]</a></span> natural trade centers, the population, the schools,
+the chief officers, and the well known political leaders of each
+sub-division; a series of intellectual excursions could be so arranged,
+and made so interesting to the children, that they would soon master
+these statistics, as identified with every State and Territory in the
+Republic. Having finished the subdivisions, attention could then be
+given to a much larger map of the United States, on which the States and
+Territories on a smaller scale, would show the same statistics. From
+this map, the study of the political statistics of the States and
+Territories, by groups, could then be commenced.</p>
+
+<p>"A comparative study of the groups, would be full of interest for the
+children, and would offer a great number of delightful surprises. The
+six groups in natural order, should be classified as follows: The New
+England, the Middle, the Southern States; the States of the great basin
+of the Mississippi Valley, including the imperial State of Texas; the
+Rocky Mountain States, and the States of the Pacific Slope, including
+that remarkable, and only partially explored Territory, Alaska.</p>
+
+<p>"From these group studies, the children may learn many object lessons,
+which might demonstrate to them, the natural supremacy of this republic,
+over other nations. I may mention the following, as noteworthy: The
+Great Lakes of the Middle West; with a coast line of more than three
+thousand miles in length; with an interstate commerce which exceeds in
+tonnage, the combined shipping trade of France and Germany. The
+marvelous capacity of the great agricultural States of the Mississippi
+Valley to become the granary of the world; to furnish its entire food
+supply, of bread, beef and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_437" id="Page_437">[Pg 437]</a></span> pork. The imperial State of Texas, with its
+wealth of wheat, cane, corn, cotton and cattle; with a domain so wide,
+that it equals in extent, that of Great Britain, European Turkey,
+Switzerland, Denmark and Portugal. Again, passing to the uttermost
+regions of the Great Northwest, we should find the mammoth Territory of
+Alaska, rich in its unexplored forests, mineral deposits and golden
+sands; with a picturesque coast line of fabulous extent, stretching away
+to the North far beyond the Arctic Circle, indented by a multitude of
+romantic bays and inlets, where jutting crags, bold promontories of
+basaltic rock, countless islands, sparkling water and shining glaciers,
+fill the measure of beauty and grandeur.</p>
+
+<p>"Thus educated, the future guardians of the political welfare of the
+republic, would understand the natural wants of its widely separated
+sub-divisions; they would fully appreciate the significance of its
+destiny as a nation. They would always be loyal to the demands of that
+destiny, which should be commensurate with its inexhaustable resources,
+with the magnitude of its domain. A domain so immense, that when
+compared with the countries of the Old World, without counting island
+possessions, or the Territory of Alaska, it exceeds in extent, the
+combined areas of China proper, Japan, Austria, Germany, France, Spain,
+Portugal, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Greece, Denmark, Norway, Sweden,
+Switzerland, Great Britain, and European Turkey. With the hearts of its
+voters inspired by such patriotic teachings, the Republic must endure;
+must fulfill its prophetic destiny! Naught can prevail against it! Not
+even the selfish schemes of a corrupt oligarchy; no matter how boldly
+they plan or how<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_438" id="Page_438">[Pg 438]</a></span> many billions of capital they may control!</p>
+
+<p>"In teaching these things, my children; also in enlarging and perfecting
+the work of the Crusade, I can promise you the support and co-operation
+of the spirit world. The broad outlines, which I have given, will
+suggest the more complete details of the work, which I now leave in your hands."</p>
+
+<p>"That thought alone, Mr. Fenwick," said Fillmore, "ought to prove a
+tower of strength to us. May we not make that co-operation more
+effective, by a closer study of the conditions that prevail, and of the
+laws which govern spirit life?"</p>
+
+<p>"Later on my son, that will be advisable. But just at present, it is of
+the utmost importance, that every effort should be made to improve the
+social, industrial, mental and physical condition of mortals, as the
+necessary foundation for true spiritual growth.</p>
+
+<p>"Mental growth must precede the spiritual. Power exercised by the mind
+over the body, in moulding physical structure, multiplies the power of
+the spirit acting on matter, again reacting on both mind and body.
+Consciousness, is spiritual life. To enlarge the sphere of
+consciousness, is to add to spiritual growth. Evolution, is nature's
+effort towards progression. The new spiritual era, which began with the
+last half of the nineteenth century, was marked by a dawning
+consciousness in the mind of man, that he might become a self-directing
+factor in his own evolution. This consciousness in turn, became the
+starting point of spiritual evolution on the mortal plane of existence.
+The last, having been made possible by the first.</p>
+
+<p>"Reasoning from the premises stated, we must logically conclude that the
+embodiment of more<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_439" id="Page_439">[Pg 439]</a></span> mind, of better mind, is a matter of the utmost
+importance to the whole human race. As body and brain are working parts
+of the mind, its machinery of expression; it is equally important, that
+both mind and body should be perfected together. Hence, the necessity
+for better social conditions, more financial independence, less labor,
+more leisure, longer life and larger brain capacity; and finally, as the
+crowning requirement, to be well born! To banish poverty, is to make
+these things possible.</p>
+
+<p>"Before a proper conception of the spiritual world can be entertained by
+mortals, their minds, by the aid of the sciences, must have acquired
+such knowledge of their environments, as shall satisfy the requirements
+of spiritual evolution. Every item of real knowledge thus gained, is
+just so much added preparation towards the understanding of the
+spiritual; towards a harmonious interblending, and co-operation of the
+two worlds. In accordance with the law of progression, truth, to the
+ever changing stages of consciousness, is relative. In order to
+illustrate the relativity of truth, and the magnitude of the domain of
+knowledge in the mortal state, which must be conquered before
+consciousness can be extended beyond the confines of the spiritual; let
+us consider the following, somewhat approximate postulates.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us suppose, that the life of the planet, Earth, embraces all forms
+of life; each individual life pulsating in harmony with the great mother
+heart of the planet.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us suppose, that spirits, both embodied and disembodied, incarnate
+and excarnate, considered as a mass, may act as the terrurgic spiritual
+body and brain of the planet; subjective and responsive to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_440" id="Page_440">[Pg 440]</a></span> the
+inspiration and guidance of the universal cosmic mind, acting from the cosmic center.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us suppose, that the material world, with the atom as its smallest
+unit, is the medium of mortal existence. Again, that the impalpable
+ether of the interstellar spaces, is the medium of existence for the
+spiritual world. And again, as a measure of the fineness of ether, that
+the difference between an ether particle and an atom, should be as wide
+as the difference between the atom and the planet.</p>
+
+<p>"Considering these posits as a basis for comparing life in the two
+realms, we at once perceive that life, organized to correspond with the
+coarse meshes of the material plane of existence, can be permeated,
+filled and quickened, by organized spiritual life, without disturbing
+the unity of either organization. The interblending of spirit and
+matter, is accomplished. The mystery of the dual existence of soul and
+body, is explained. The soul in the body, yet, not of the body! The
+permanent and the enduring, mated with the changing and the ephemeral!
+The cell life of the physical, with the soul life of the eternal!</p>
+
+<p>"In comparing the two states of existence, the physical with the
+spiritual, we find the horizon of consciousness in the former, is
+vaguely defined and very much limited; while in the latter, it is
+sharply defined and widely extended. The more we study and compare, the
+more readily we understand, that space, duration, size, minuteness,
+solidity and porosity, are all relative terms which depend for their
+significance entirely on the standpoint of consciousness. So apparent is
+this fact, that we soon learn how impossible it is for the mortal mind
+to understand, even the more simple elements of spirit life,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_441" id="Page_441">[Pg 441]</a></span> until the
+dual or spiritual mind, with its consciousness, has grown and unfolded
+to the required extent. Hence, growth of consciousness, is growth of
+spirit; the spirit which molds and controls matter.</p>
+
+<p>"Self-conscious consciousness, is the immortal ego! As a part of the
+progressive, all inclusive, spiritual life of the planet, it takes part
+in the evolution and progression of the mass. This mass, in the
+fulfillment of the purpose of existence, is subjective and responsive to
+cosmic law, and to cosmic inspiration.</p>
+
+<p>"In these postulates, we have the key which unlocks the mystery of life.
+We catch a glimpse of its true meaning, purpose, glory and grandeur.
+They raise the theory and practice of human progress to a question of
+the first magnitude; to a science of life, which demands the attention
+of every student. The school of human life, lies at the base of the
+curiculum of knowledge. It becomes the foundation of spiritual progress,
+as well. Hence, the importance of rightly cultivating the mind, of
+extending its consciousness to the uttermost limits of human capacity.</p>
+
+<p>"Selfishness and despotism, are frowning barriers across the pathway of
+human progress. They thrive by war. War, is the foe of spirituality, the
+mother of murder! War must be abolished, before man can hope for true
+spiritual evolution! It is the fortunate destiny of this republic, to
+lead the race in a crusade against it; to open the way for its final
+abolition. It is to be the province of the Crusade to teach the people,
+that war has been the scourge of humanity since the beginning of the
+historical era; the greatest crime ever perpetrated against the
+sacredness of human life! Peace, multiplies the products of labor.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_442" id="Page_442">[Pg 442]</a></span>
+Labor, is the genius of life! War, destroys the laborer and his product.
+War is the genius of death! War, is a symbol of barbarism; it is both
+the throne and the refuge of despotism. For the purpose of maintaining
+despotism, people for centuries have been subjected to the hard
+conditions of unremitting toil, that they might endure the fatigues of
+war without a murmur. For the same reason, despots have kept the masses
+in ignorance, lest they should discover the true quality of justice; the
+moral law, which condemns both despotism and war; lest they should come
+to realize all the horrors of the most outrageous crime possible to the
+conception of human reason; the crime of war! War is such an
+overwhelming calamity, that it is almost impossible to estimate the ruin
+and the destruction which it has wrought! If the millions of lives and
+the billions of treasure spent in the world's wars, had been employed in
+protecting the people, in generating, rearing, sustaining and developing
+them to the highest attainable point, this earth would now witness a
+social millennium; where peace and prosperity, high culture and
+harmonious brotherhood, would reign supreme!</p>
+
+<p>"I rejoice, that I am permitted to prophesy its downfall! Long before
+the close of the twentieth century, standing armies will disappear; war
+will be at an end; the angel of peace will spread her white wings over
+all the nations of the earth! This Crusade, is the beginning of the end!
+For the encouragement of our Crusaders, I will indicate two causes,
+acting from opposite directions, which will serve to hasten war's dissolution.</p>
+
+<p>"First: The competitive system, for centuries, has been war's chief
+recruiting office. Under its<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_443" id="Page_443">[Pg 443]</a></span> reign, in the fierce struggle for
+existence, it has kept up a perpetual warfare between man and man;
+always the stronger against the weaker. When vanquished, the weaker as a
+last resort, could and did, enlist as a soldier. Thanks to the
+co-operative farm, spread broadcast by the Crusade; the early
+substitution of the co-operative, for the competitive system, will make
+the weak strong; make them financially independent! Soldiering as a
+trade, is made possible by poverty! Whenever a people are emancipated
+from the cringing slavery of want, naturally averse to being
+slaughtered, they will rise en masse, and refuse to be apprenticed to
+the brutal trade of killing their kind. Thus it will happen, that armies
+will melt away and disappear, for the want of fighting men!</p>
+
+<p>"Second: Strange as it may appear, the inventors of mighty engines of
+war, of terrible explosives, of deadly missiles, each in turn, more
+horribly destructive than the others; are all envoys of peace; that
+sweet peace, which shall bring rest, renewed energy, and swift progress,
+to all classes. Through the multiplied and combined efforts of these
+inventors, the bloody and barbarous art of war, is fast becoming so
+suicidal, and so financially disastrous to the nations of the earth who
+have the misfortune to engage in it; that such as wish to preserve a
+national existence, must do so by making haste to ally themselves with
+the friends of universal peace, through international arbitration.</p>
+
+<p>"Under such circumstances, the nations of the earth, ground between the
+inexorable, upper and lower millstones of the first and second cause,
+acting under pressure of self-preservation, will, with one accord, join
+in covenanting for a total disarmament,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_444" id="Page_444">[Pg 444]</a></span> and a perpetual peace. All
+hail, the glad day!</p>
+
+<p>"Then, will dawn man's era of true spiritual evolution! Then, will the
+true object and purpose of life, be understood! Then, will the
+sacredness of human life, be rightly conceived, appreciated, maintained
+and respected! Then, wholesale murder, no longer sanctioned by man-made
+laws, it will be possible to banish the spirit of murder from the life
+of the individual! Then, the lesser crimes, the demons of despotic
+selfishness, greed, cruelty, and lust for power, which now clog progress
+and prevent the realization of a practical brotherhood for humanity, can
+be shaken off and rendered harmless!</p>
+
+<p>"Then, the emancipated legions of toilers, will rise to a true
+understanding of the blessing of labor as the real expression of life;
+that the glory of labor, is man's conquest over matter; that food,
+shelter, raiment, and sustenance for body, mind and soul, are the
+essential elements of life; a natural equipment for the conquest! Then,
+it will be the province of a natural religion to teach the people how to
+help themselves! how to master the great problem of physical life, by
+attaining the greatest perfection in feeding, clothing, housing,
+educating, and spiritualizing humanity!</p>
+
+<p>"Then, the solidarity of the spiritual welfare of mankind, will equal
+that of the physical! Then, the measure of spiritual progress achieved
+by the mass, will be the measure of progress attained by its weakest
+unit! Then, will come perfect co-operation, between the spiritual and
+the physical! Then, will come the reign of liberty and justice, the
+guardian spirits of a true republic! Then, will come the social, the
+industrial, and the spiritual millennium! Then, the barriers of
+selfishness will have been<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_445" id="Page_445">[Pg 445]</a></span> burned away; the two worlds will be united;
+in the new atmosphere of brotherly love, spirit and mortal may
+harmoniously walk, talk, and work together for the perfection of the race!</p>
+
+<p>"Then, the great armies of the world, no longer in the guise of
+organized barbarism, or a tax on the industries of the nations, will be
+converted into armies of peace, engaged in the production of real
+wealth! Then, the heretofore undreamed of store of public wealth, will,
+in its proper distribution, give to all mankind, the acme of universal
+education, civilization and happiness!"</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>CONCLUSION.</h2>
+
+<p>Born leaders of a progressive age; filled with the inspiration of one
+great purpose in life; at all times, equal to the demands of the hour;
+hand in hand, with hearts united by the bonds of a supreme love; nobly
+unselfish, and spiritually refined; generous, handsome, accomplished;
+wealthy, eloquent and magnetic; Fillmore and Fern, our hero and heroine,
+were everywhere recognized as a commanding force in the social and
+political world. A force which quickly overcame all opposing obstacles.
+They were so much interested, and so absorbed in the ever increasing
+success of the Crusade, that the happy months and years flew swiftly by.
+Their devotion to each other, was a potent charm which begat in the
+hearts of a legion of admiring followers, an intense loyalty to them,
+and to the banner of the Crusade, which had led them to so many
+victories in the cause of humanity.</p>
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_446" id="Page_446">[Pg 446]</a></span></p><p>The second decade of the century was throbbing with the birth of
+epoch-making events. The astrological forces seemed in conjunction with
+planetary evolution. The time was ripe for the incoming wave of a new
+social era. The spirit of progress was brooding in the air; stirring in
+the hearts of the people, who hailed the Crusaders as blessed evangels
+of the new life, for which they had yearned and prayed so many years.
+The gospel of the new life, was the gospel of co-operative labor. The
+wonderful strength and effectiveness of the co-operative farm movement,
+to lift the laborer from conditions of ignorance and poverty, to those
+of financial independence, comfort and refinement; was practically
+demonstrated, a thousand times over. To the people, each demonstration
+was an ever growing source of astonishment and delight. The enthusiasm
+aroused, burning with the fires of a religious zeal, irresistibly drew
+them into the ranks of this powerful organization. With rapidly
+increasing numbers, it swept over the land with the force and fury of a
+great tidal wave! In its track, on the ruins of the competitive system,
+there was established, the reign of co-operative peace and plenty, the
+social and political millennium.</p>
+
+<p>Among the leaders of the Crusade, assembled at Washington, George and
+Gertrude Gerrish were especially prominent. To them was assigned the
+task of organizing the lecturing or missionary bureau of the Crusade;
+its trained force of traveling educators. The good work accomplished by
+this force, was another well earned tribute to their extraordinary skill
+as organizers. As well fitted for the responsible duties; George Gaylord
+and Honora Eloise Houghton, having become inseparable friends, engaged
+lovers,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_447" id="Page_447">[Pg 447]</a></span> and finally a well-mated, conjugal couple; were placed in
+charge of the traveling educators on the Pacific Slope. So eloquently
+and effectively did they labor in this wide field, that throughout its
+length and breadth, they became very popular, winning hosts of friends
+for themselves and the cause.</p>
+
+<p>Solaris Farm and village, the working center of the movement, soon
+doubled many times, its territory and population. It became an important
+manufacturing center, which made an ideal home for the National
+Co-operative Farm School; a normal school, which every year graduated
+teachers by the score. The history of Solaris as the initial farm made
+it so famous, that thousands of enthusiastic co-operators annually visit
+it. It is the business of the reception committee appointed by the
+normal school, to receive, entertain and instruct these visitors.</p>
+
+<p>Gilbert Gerrish, true to his arisen sweetheart, and to his own peculiar
+purpose in life; declined to leave Solaris, with his parents. Indeed, he
+was so universally beloved by its young people, that they could not, and
+would not give him up! To the visiting stranger, he seems by far the
+most popular and the most highly honored young man in the village. This
+distinguished consideration, he has rightfully and honestly earned.
+Happy himself, in generously using his rare gifts for making other people happy!</p>
+
+<p>Thus endeth the story of Solaris Farm. May its purposes haunt the minds
+of its readers, like the memories of some prophetic dream, which may not
+be obliterated, which can not be forgotten.</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_i" id="Page_i">[Pg i]</a></span></p>
+
+<h2>A FEW POINTERS FROM THE PEN OF THE REVIEWER.</h2>
+
+<p>Solaris Farm is the title of a new book "with a purpose." In fact it is
+a book with many purposes. While the author writes intelligently and
+forcefully upon stirpiculture, education, invention, hygiene,
+sanitation, moral, physical and mental growth and culture, and injects
+many new, beautiful and practical thoughts into each of these subjects,
+his chief theme is unselfish co-operation, his chief purpose is to
+exhibit the benefits, moral, physical, social and financial, that will
+be showered upon the human family when they become wise enough to cease
+competing with each other, and progressive enough to begin co-operating.</p>
+
+<p>The story is the logical development of the following situation:</p>
+
+<p>Fern Fenwick, an heiress to a vast estate, had promised her father
+before his death to use a good share of the Fenwick millions in
+bettering the condition of the race. Her first experiment is a
+co-operative farm of about five thousand acres, whereon about two
+hundred and fifty families settle and work out the many problems which
+the author desires to discuss.</p>
+
+<p>In all of these operations she has the able assistance of Fillmore
+Flagg, a farmer's son, who, having seen his father and dozens of his old
+neighbors crushed in spirit and broken in fortune by the resistless
+trend of events under the competitive system with all its waste of
+misdirected energy, has become disgusted with the meager results of farm
+work and having by great energy obtained a practical education has
+determined to do something for the alleviation of the miseries of a
+competition crushed society.</p>
+
+<p>He meets Fern Fenwick and is by her employed to superintend the co-operative farm.</p>
+
+<p>A very pretty little love story, which the author has told with pleasant
+humor, is the result of their meeting, but the weightier themes with
+which the book is filled are likely to more fully engross the attention of the reader.</p>
+
+<p>Co-operative ventures have usually been founded upon some "ism," and
+were held together by its religious or other influence. In the Solaris
+Farm colony a very comprehensive scheme of insurance against accident,
+poverty, sickness and old age is the binding<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_ii" id="Page_ii">[Pg ii]</a></span> principle. The premium is
+the profit which the co-operators collectively make by producing what
+they want (or by buying at wholesale what they cannot produce) and
+selling the same to themselves individually at regular market rates. The
+excellence of their wares attract many purchasers from the outside and
+the profits resulting therefrom also tend to swell the insurance fund of the co-operators.</p>
+
+<p>All kinds of business, and manufacturing are carried on by the
+co-operators in addition to farming. Co-operative thinking solves the
+knottiest problems for the colony, invention flourishes and, once
+started, money flows into their coffer at a fairly satisfactory rate.</p>
+
+<p>Co-operation is the key-word, the essence, the very soul of Solaris
+Farm. All the successes achieved by the characters that people the book
+are the results of co-operative working, thinking and saving. Every
+stockholder lends a hand, and lo! the hours of labor are short and
+delightful; when a disagreeable task must be done, co-operative thinking
+invents a machine which does the work better than a man could do it; the
+dignity of toil is established on a sure foundation, and the statement
+that "muscular effort is a mental demonstration," is verified.</p>
+
+<p>"Will it pay?" is sometimes called "the American question." In Solaris
+Farm the author has successfully undertaken to present an unselfishness
+that will pay&mdash;not in the fairy gold of a far-off Heaven, but in the
+coin of the realm, here and now. Leisure for study and recreation;
+books, pictures, objects of beauty and art; better health; longer life;
+the society of delightful people none of whom are competing for the
+lion's share, but all of whom are co-operating for the benefit of the
+community; absence of the fear of poverty; certainty of support in
+sickness and old age;&mdash;all these and thousands of other comforts are
+some of the certain wages of unselfishness.</p>
+
+<p>A feature of Solaris Farm which will commend itself to every well-wisher
+of the race is the high estimate which the author places on humanity.
+Man, he says, is the flower and fruit of the planet, its highest and
+best product. To arrive at the highest point possible in his evolution,
+it is necessary for him to be well born and this necessitates happy,
+healthy, prosperous parents and proper environments. To follow out this
+idea to its logical conclusion would be to repeat the author's
+arguments, for he has completely filled the field. The reader is
+referred to the story for the facts proving that unselfish co-operation
+will furnish everything<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_iii" id="Page_iii">[Pg iii]</a></span> needful for the complete unfoldment of the now
+almost dormant possibilities of human nature.</p>
+
+<p>The pursuit of happiness and the hope of its ultimate possession is the
+motor which induces all human endeavor. No act is ever done except in
+obedience to this law of our nature which compels us to seek pleasure.
+Ignorance of the nature of true pleasure has led us after many a
+will-o'-the-wisp, and our unlearned race has soiled its garments many
+times in error, commonly called "sin." "Sinful pleasures," against which
+our parents, the clergy, and all moral philosophers have warned us, do
+not exist. <i>There is no pleasure in sin.</i> Our race beliefs, based upon
+untruth and ignorance, have bequeathed us a heritage of appetites,
+passions and desires which are wrong, and hurtful when gratified.</p>
+
+<p>Among the most hurtful of race beliefs is the fixed idea that labor is a
+curse. Nothing could be further from the truth. As has been aptly said:
+"Art is the expression of a man's joy in his work." Labor&mdash;muscular
+exertion, having a definite productive object&mdash;is a blessing and a joy
+when the worker is in love with his work. Work is a curse only under the
+competitive system, which by its wasteful methods extends the hours of
+toil beyond the limits of endurance, robs the worker of the full
+benefits of his labor and gives him no time for self-improvement. The
+experience of the stockholders of Solaris Farm shows how the ancient
+curse was removed by unselfish co-operation, and labor crowned with the
+dignity that is its due.</p>
+
+<p>While Solaris Farm was not intended as a propaganda of spiritualism,
+that cult has been introduced with considerable dramatic effect for two
+apparent reasons. The first and least important of these reasons is to
+cater to the ever-growing taste of the reading public for the occult;
+but the second reason is peculiar to the book. In discussing man as the
+most valuable product of the planet, and the relation which the soul
+bears to the body, it became necessary to approach the subject from the
+view-point of one who is in nowise affected by the petty altercations,
+jealousies and strifes of the world; one who knows by experience all the
+hardships of life and its many temptations, but who has also progressed
+beyond the sphere of their influence. The most natural and obvious way
+of obtaining this coveted point of observation was to let the spirit of
+such a noble character as Fennimore Fenwick speak from the fulness of
+his experience, both as mortal and spirit, of the needs of the race, the
+curse of competition, the value of proper environmental conditions for
+perfect motherhood, pre-natal education and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_iv" id="Page_iv">[Pg iv]</a></span>adequate training of mind
+and body, such as may not be secured even by the most wealthy in the
+present condition of society, but which would be the heritage of every
+individual in a co-operative community. The utterances of Fennimore
+Fenwick rank with the best thought on these subjects and no person can
+read them without having implanted in his breast a higher regard for his
+race, and a greater solicitude for the material and spiritual unfoldment of humanity.</p>
+
+<p>For many years, orators and agitators have vied with each other in
+proclaiming that capital and labor were the two factors of financial
+success. They were and still are mistaken. Within the pages of Solaris
+Farm the reader is given the true formula, which may be algebraically
+stated thus: "Capital + Labor + Brains = Financial Success." Financial
+Success, however is not the complete product of these factors when
+selfishness, greed and wasteful competition are eliminated from the
+equation by the substitution of unselfish co-operation. The happy result
+of the experiment at Solaris Farm must convince the reader of the
+correctness of the formula and the value of the substitution.</p>
+
+<p>In considering the broad field covered by this attractive book; its wide
+departure from the mission of the ordinary novel, its probable use as a
+text-book of advanced thought on true socialism, progressive
+co-operation, a new order of political economy and the ways and means of
+making colony life desirable, successfully coherent, self-supporting and
+practically delightful; the price of Solaris Farm (50 cts, in paper
+covers, $1.25 in cloth binding) will commend itself to the purchaser as
+not only reasonably moderate, but also if he be an interested reader,
+with business intentions, that the large end of the bargain is very much in his favor.</p>
+
+<p>Solaris Farm was written by Captain Milan C. Edson, whose military title
+was earned during the great Civil War. He was a farmer and the son of a
+farmer. He enlisted as a private soldier and without influence rose to a
+captaincy by merit and bravery alone. He is a profound thinker, a lover
+of his race and has given many years to the study of social and
+political questions. It has been his desire to found a community where
+his ideas of true success might be wrought out, as an object lesson to
+the world, of the advantages of unselfishness. This pleasure having been
+denied him, he has incorporated his leading ideas in Solaris Farm, in
+the hope that some one more fortunate than himself may be able to
+receive the blessings which must inevitably flow from such a noble life.</p>
+
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<p>&nbsp;</p>
+<hr class="full" />
+<p>***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SOLARIS FARM***</p>
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+</html>
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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, Solaris Farm, by Milan C. Edson
+
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+
+
+
+Title: Solaris Farm
+       A Story of the Twentieth Century
+
+
+Author: Milan C. Edson
+
+
+
+Release Date: February 23, 2010  [eBook #31373]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII)
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SOLARIS FARM***
+
+
+E-text prepared by David Clarke, Martin Pettit, and the Project Gutenberg
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page
+images generously made available by Internet Archive/American Libraries
+(http://www.archive.org/details/americana)
+
+
+
+Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this
+      file which includes the original illustration.
+      See 31373-h.htm or 31373-h.zip:
+      (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/31373/31373-h/31373-h.htm)
+      or
+      (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/31373/31373-h.zip)
+
+
+      Images of the original pages are available through
+      Internet Archive/American Libraries. See
+      http://www.archive.org/details/solarisfarm00edsorich
+
+
+
+
+
+SOLARIS FARM;
+
+A Story of the Twentieth Century.
+
+by
+
+MILAN C. EDSON.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+Published by the Author
+at
+1728 New Jersey Ave., N. W., Washington, D. C.
+In the Year 1900.
+
+Press Work by Byron S. Adams.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: CAPTAIN MILAN C. EDSON.]
+
+
+Copyright, 1900
+by Milan C. Edson.
+All Rights Reserved.
+
+
+
+
+DEDICATION.
+
+
+This book, is dedicated to the sons and daughters of the farms of the
+Republic as an expression of the author's realization, that Agricultural
+people constitute a large majority of its working units: That as such,
+its destiny is in the hands of their boys and girls, as its future
+guardians, fathers and mothers: That for the reasons stated, they should
+become its dominant thinkers and leaders: That Agriculture is the true
+basis of industrial and commercial success; hence, it should be made the
+most noble and pleasing of all occupations: That the alarming
+encroachments of land monopoly, and the inability of the small farm to
+meet the expense of using the latest and best machinery, threatens the
+total extinction of all land-owning farmers, and of their consequent
+reduction to the dependent caste of farm laborers: That the isolated
+life and the severe toil of the small farm, has a dangerously depressing
+effect on the minds of its people: That all of these things, seem to
+demand the changes suggested by the contents of this book.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+Strong in my convictions that all civilizations are false, which do not
+civilize the lowest units of any social order, I have written Solaris
+Farm as my contribution towards the improvement of agriculturists as a
+class, of the race as a whole; towards the establishment of a truer
+civilization, organized for the purpose of securing the same degree of
+progress for the lowest orders of humanity, which have been or can be
+attained by the highest. In any social or political fabric, wide
+differences of wealth, of education, of refinement in its sub-divisions
+are dangerous, they swiftly lead to the introduction of caste. Caste is
+the dry rot, which, when once established, will surely destroy all
+progress, all vitality, by slowly eating away the social, industrial and
+political life of the nation.
+
+In preparing this book for the press, I wish to acknowledge my
+obligations to the following authors, for much valuable information and
+inspiration: To Elmer Gates, the discoverer of new domains in
+Psychology, the inventor and discoverer of the art of Mentation, the
+founder of the Elmer Gates Laboratory, at Chevy Chase, Maryland: To
+Henry George, the author of "Progress and Poverty:" To Edward Bellamy,
+the author of "Equality," and "Looking Backward:" And lastly to that
+greatest of living Frenchmen, M. Godin, the author of "Social
+Solutions," and the founder of the "Familistere," with its famous
+industrial enterprise, located at the city of Guise, France; the
+grandest co-operative success of the age!
+
+A last word to my readers: Do you wish to join forces with the
+humanitarians? If so, always strive so to educate the people, that they
+may fully understand the true object and purpose of human life; and the
+necessity for the upbuilding of social, industrial and political
+institutions, in harmony with the demands of that purpose. This will
+require unselfish, persistent, co-operative effort and thought. In no
+other way, can you so greatly aid the cause of progress.
+
+MILAN C. EDSON.
+
+No. 1728 N. J. Ave., N. W.
+
+WASHINGTON, D. C., SEPT. 1ST, 1900.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+CHAPTER                                                    PAGE
+
+ 1. A FARMER'S SON WITH PROGRESSIVE TENDENCIES                1
+
+ 2. THE OUTLINES OF A GREAT PROBLEM                           4
+
+ 3. AN ADVERTISEMENT INTRODUCES THE HEROINE                   9
+
+ 4. THE STORY OF A STONE AND WHAT CAME AFTER                 10
+
+ 5. FAIRY FERN COTTAGE                                       27
+
+ 6. FENNIMORE FENWICK                                        34
+
+ 7. AN ALASKA KINDERGARTEN                                   37
+
+ 8. AN INTERVIEW WITH THE "FAIRIES."                         41
+
+ 9. THE PROBLEM VS. A GOOD MAN WHO IS AS RICH AS
+        HE IS NOBLE                                          49
+
+10. THE REAPING OF THE DEATH ANGEL                           53
+
+11. THE MARTINA MINE                                         58
+
+12. SPIRIT AND MORTAL--FATHER AND DAUGHTER                   61
+
+13. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS                                    63
+
+14. THE ETHICS OF PLANETARY EVOLUTION                        71
+
+15. THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN SOCIAL EVOLUTION    75
+
+16. FILLMORE AND FERN                                        87
+
+17. SOLARIS FARM                                             93
+
+18. CLUB LIFE AT SOLARIS                                    112
+
+19. FENWICK HALL                                            121
+
+20. THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA                              133
+
+21. HIS WOOING PROSPERS WHILE OUR HERO ENJOYS HIS
+        FIRST VACATION                                      141
+
+22. A SURPRISE PARTY AND RECEPTION COMBINED                 150
+
+23. FORMATION OF POPULAR SCIENCE CLUBS                      160
+
+24. A TWENTIETH CENTURY LOVE LETTER                         162
+
+25. THE REPLY                                               171
+
+26. FERN FENWICK ARRIVES AT SOLARIS                         179
+
+27. THE FESTIVAL                                            185
+
+28. THE ORATION                                             187
+
+29. THE STORY OF GILBERT GERRISH; OR, THE STRENGTH OF
+        THE WEAKEST UNIT                                    216
+
+30. OUR HERO AND HEROINE DISCUSS AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS    227
+
+31. THE DISCUSSION GROWS MORE INTERESTING                   248
+
+32. SOCIAL SOLUTIONS                                        256
+
+33. SOLARIS SCRIP                                           270
+
+34. THE INSURANCE OFFERED BY CO-OPERATIVE FARMING           273
+
+35. THE MOTHERS' CLUB                                       287
+
+36. THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN THE CAPITAL
+        AND LABOR PROBLEM                                   299
+
+37. THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM TRIUMPHANT                        313
+
+38. THE KINDERGARTEN AT SOLARIS                             327
+
+39. AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR                                   346
+
+40. THE COMING ERA OF GOOD ROADS                            362
+
+41. CO-OPERATIVE ETHICS                                     371
+
+42. RURAL LIFE UNDER THE REIGN OF CO-OPERATION              387
+
+43. A TWENTIETH CENTURY HONEYMOON                           416
+
+44. THE NEW CRUSADE                                         423
+
+
+
+
+SOLARIS FARM.
+
+A STORY OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+A FARMER'S SON WITH PROGRESSIVE TENDENCIES.
+
+
+One bright summer afternoon, near the close of the month of August,
+1905, two young college chums, Fillmore Flagg and George Gaylord, just
+met after a long separation, were seated on a rustic bench near a
+well-appointed mountain hotel. The superb view before them was well
+worthy of their half-hour's silent admiration. Full one thousand feet
+above the sea stands "Hotel Mount Meenahga" in the heart of the
+"Shawangunks," a mountain range in the state of New York, famed for its
+scenic beauty, cool dry air, pure water and commanding elevation.
+Looking northward a most charming landscape presents itself, a wonderful
+group of mountain ranges, stretching for seventy-five miles from near
+the Delaware Water-gap eastward to and including the Alpine peaks of the
+famous Catskills. Within this lovely semicircle lie the highlands of
+Ulster, Sullivan and Orange, lifted like seats in some vast
+amphitheater, tier above tier, while nearer a beautiful mingling of
+villages and hamlets, broad fields, green woods and silvery
+water-courses, constitutes a picture of enchanting beauty--a picture
+constantly changed, shaded and intensified by broad patches of moving
+shadow and sunlight from a great fleet of fleecy clouds sailing so
+swiftly, so silently and so majestically across the summer sky.
+
+"How exquisitely beautiful!" murmured Fillmore Flagg, "I wish I had my
+camera that I might make it captive, carry it hence and keep it, a rare
+token of beauty, a source of joy forever."
+
+At this point, a brief description of the young men will serve by way of
+a further introduction.
+
+Fillmore Flagg was fully six feet in height, though his compact,
+well-rounded figure made him seem less tall; his straight, muscular
+limbs were in harmony with his deep chest and symmetrical shoulders. His
+rather large but beautifully turned neck and throat rose straight from
+the spinal column, firmly supporting a noble head, everywhere evenly and
+smoothly developed. His thick, soft brown hair, worn rather short, was
+inclined to curl, giving to the outlines of the head a still more heroic
+size. His forehead was large, full, dome shaped and remarkably smooth;
+the brows, finely penciled and well arched, were matched in color and
+slenderness by a short moustache which seemed a shade or two darker than
+the hair. His eyes were large, very expressive, of a soft dark brown,
+bright and flashing with emotion, full of pensive light when partially
+shaded by their thick silken lashes; his smiling glance possessed a
+curiously fascinating magnetic charm. The attractiveness of the entire
+face and neck was intensified by the wonderful marble-like smoothness of
+skin which accompanies that rare, pale olive tint of complexion. A soft
+Alpine hat and a neat business suit of dark clothing completes this
+picture of the personal appearance of Fillmore Flagg. Later on we shall
+learn to know him better by his genial temperament, mental and moral
+characteristics.
+
+George Gaylord was above medium height, slender and pale, slightly
+inclined to stoop; wore glasses, and a thick black moustache which
+entirely concealed his thin lips. His heavy growth of long, coal black
+hair was naturally bent on falling over his high white forehead. His
+large black eyes were deeply set under heavy dark brows, more square
+than arched. His straight nose and smoothly shaven chin were set in line
+with his high square forehead. While both face and figure suggested the
+student, a tall silk hat and a square cut, closely buttoned black frock
+coat, stamped him at once as a clerical student.
+
+"Tell me, George," said Fillmore Flagg, "how have you fared since we
+parted, and what are your ambitions and plans for the future?"
+
+"There is not much to tell you, Fillmore. As you know, when I left
+college, my mother was a widow with a very limited income, which made it
+difficult to meet my college expenses. Mother had set her heart on my
+entering the ministry. Her only brother, a childless widower, and a man
+of some wealth and great influence in the church affairs of his
+prosperous New England town, promised his assistance. Behold the result!
+I have just graduated with fair honors from a prominent theological
+institute. I am to take charge, this coming November, of a large church
+and congregation in the manufacturing city where my uncle resides. Uncle
+George, for whom I was named, is now with my mother visiting friends in
+New York. They have kindly selected as my future wife, my uncle's
+favorite niece and prospective heiress to his wealth. When last we met,
+four years ago, Martha Merritt was a sweet little miss in short
+dresses; but gave promise, even then, of unfolding into a lovely woman.
+To tell you the truth, under the circumstances, I am more than half
+prepared to fall in love with her when we meet again. However ambitious
+my day dreams in the past may have been, a not unkindly fate has woven
+the web of destiny for me and fixed my future life work without much
+effort on my part; and yet I am quite content to have it so. Two weeks
+ago I left the heat and bustle of the great city for a month's rest in
+this quiet place. I little dreamed of meeting you here; I need not say I
+am delighted: I am, thoroughly so. I find you looking your best, yet I
+can easily perceive you have been hard at work as usual. I do not
+believe you could possibly keep still and rest, even for one short week,
+let the inducement to do so be ever so great. And now, my dear Fillmore,
+since I have, so to speak, brought myself up to date for your benefit,
+may I ask for a similar service on your part?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+THE OUTLINES OF A GREAT PROBLEM.
+
+
+Fillmore Flagg, seemingly self absorbed, remained silent for some
+moments, softly stroking his chin with his strong, shapely hand, his
+dreamy eyes with far-off vision intent, apparently noting details in the
+hazy borders of the distant landscape. At last, turning to his friend
+with a hearty hand clasp he said: "George Gaylord, I congratulate you;
+your future is bright; you deserve it, your mother deserves it. The
+fates have been very generous with you. I am glad you are content to
+accept the good things of life which they bring to you.
+
+"As for myself, my lines of life are cast in swift waters. My
+environments, in their reaction upon me from within, seem to develop a
+determined will to wrench from the rocks of destiny by ceaseless and
+persistent effort, whatever gifts I am to possess or enjoy. Work I must.
+Obstacles seem only to stimulate my ambition to overcome them. Yet I am
+passionately fond of the beautiful; poetry, music and art in all the
+loveliness of its varied forms; they affect me profoundly. This poetic
+side of my nature I inherit from my dear, devoted mother--my highest
+ideal of all that is good, lovely and angelic in woman. Sadly and often
+have I missed her loving tenderness, her watchful care, her beautiful
+smile. The shadowy Angel of Death claimed her and bore her from my sight
+when I was but four years old. Young as I was at that time, this
+beautiful world has never seemed quite so bright to me since.
+
+"My father, Fayette Flagg, was a noble man of sterling worth. He
+belonged to a class of thrifty, hard-working, pioneer farmers, on the
+broad, fertile prairies of the state of Nebraska. Until the death of my
+mother he was happy and prosperous, hopeful, helpful and brave. After
+that great blow came to him, he recovered slowly, as from a long, severe
+illness and never again was quite so courageous and strong, or as
+hopeful as before.
+
+"With the advent of the last decade of the nineteenth century a feeling
+of foreboding unrest seemed to brood over the western farmer: blight and
+drouth destroyed his best crops just when they seemed to promise most;
+farm stock had to be reduced. The good years were few, the bad years
+were many. The great strain of carrying a large outfit of expensive
+agricultural machinery which on a small farm could be used with profit
+only from ten to forty days in the year, began to be felt. The debts,
+incurred by the purchase of the machinery, were growing steadily larger.
+With each renewal of the mortgage on the farm, came the demand for a
+bonus and a higher rate of interest. Meanwhile the price of land and of
+all farm products kept on falling, falling steadily year after year.
+Only taxes and freight rates from farm to market kept up. High rates of
+interest and of freight swallowed up everything and seemed to accelerate
+the terrible shrinkage of values. My father found, to his amazement,
+that his farm was now mortgaged for more than it would sell for under
+the hammer. He gave up the struggle in despair. The savings of a
+lifetime, his health, strength and courage all exhausted; his homestead
+and farm sold from under him; he lost all hope and in a few short weeks
+died, a broken-hearted man. I went to him a few months before the end: I
+tried all in my power to save him, but alas! I could do nothing but bury
+his body beside that of my mother and come away, filled with the
+determination of solving the most difficult problem of a lifetime--a
+problem that lies at the very foundation of the permanency of this
+republic. 'How to keep the farm lands of America in the hands of the
+native farmers of this and the coming generations? How to help them to
+help themselves?' The decree has gone forth. The small farm and farmer
+must go. They are doomed. A great wave of land monopoly, rolled up by a
+large class of very shrewd, far-seeing capitalists, is even now sweeping
+across the continent. Seventy-five years hence only a pauperized
+peasantry of ignorant farm laborers, bound to the soil as hopelessly as
+the slave to the master, will coin their lives of ceaseless, unrequited
+toil to swell the rent roll of the non-resident landowner, who, as lord
+of the domain, through his heartless agent, will exact his tribute to
+the uttermost farthing. Must the sons and daughters of the farms of this
+republic come to the bitter heritage of such a life? Surely! We have
+already seen the beginning of the end! The sad case of my father can be
+duplicated a hundred times or more in almost every county of our western
+states. States that are incalculably rich in their magnificent domain of
+broad acres of the most fertile land the sun ever shone upon; capable,
+when permanently placed in the hands of a properly equipped,
+scientifically educated class of people, of producing the food supply of
+the world: but under the blight of the monopoly system, history will
+repeat itself. Our agricultural interests will languish and wither;
+dependent manufactures, and all branches of exchange and commerce, must,
+in time, follow. What then will happen to society? To government of both
+state and nation? In the face of this appalling situation, how
+stupendous the problem! By what effort can a great counter tidal-wave be
+set in motion upon whose crest the salt and salvation of the republic,
+the sons and daughters of American farms, may be carried safely to the
+permanent heritage of the soil they till? As in the past, so in the
+future must we look to them for our true reformers, leaders, thinkers
+and statesmen. They are endowed by birth, by constant association in
+youth with soil and sunlight, fields and grass, green meadows and mossy
+brooks and, best of all, doubly endowed by the inbreathing of ozone
+laden breezes from mountain and forest, with that rare combination of
+nerve, moral, mental and physical stamina, courage and patriotism which
+is necessary to preserve this republic and to keep it, ever and always,
+a model of progressive excellence for all the nations of the earth. This
+means the embodiment by them of more and better mind, that they may do
+better, wiser and more dominant thinking; be able to comprehend the sum
+of human knowledge to such an extent that they may add to it; to so
+understand their lives, and their relations to the Universe around them,
+that they may become masters of themselves and their environments--a law
+unto themselves--fitting them for a perfect citizenship of a perfected
+republic. This most desirable of all accomplishments, requires better
+surroundings, more leisure and opportunity for self-improvement, more
+money, shorter hours of more remunerative labor--labor transformed from
+a hated drudgery to a desirable occupation. Behold, friend Gaylord, you
+have before you the outlines of the problem. Can you suggest anything
+towards its solution?"
+
+"I can suggest nothing," said George Gaylord; "You have stated the case
+with the clearness and eloquence of a Henry George. If what you say is
+true, the problem is a very serious one. But are you quite sure the
+facts will fully warrant your conclusions? If so, what are your plans
+and what have you been doing towards working out this puzzling
+question?"
+
+"Oh yes!" said Fillmore Flagg, "I am very sure of my position. The more
+I study the question, the firmer my conviction that I have understated
+the case instead of overstating it. I am studying the agricultural
+question from every possible standpoint and I propose to make it a life
+work. Every branch of science may aid me; I must master at least a
+portion of each. Since we left college I have become fairly proficient
+in surveying and civil engineering; have devoted considerable time to
+photography; I am classed as a skilled electrician; I have thoroughly
+mastered agricultural chemistry and several of the more important
+branches of that interesting and most wonderful science. As you know, I
+am very fond of mechanics and of all kinds of machinery. I could not
+rest until I had gained a practical knowledge of all kinds of tools and
+learned how to repair or construct most kinds of machinery. Two months
+ago I completed a general course of study at the Philadelphia School of
+Industrial Art, which, for the especial work I have in view, I consider
+by far the most beneficial and practicable of all my acquirements. I am
+now resting, cogitating and waiting for the golden opportunity which,
+sooner or later, must come, to enable me to commence my work."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+AN ADVERTISEMENT INTRODUCES THE HEROINE.
+
+
+"By the way, I have something to show you. I clipped this advertisement
+from a leading New York daily paper this morning, and have read it
+carefully many times. Somehow, I have an abiding conviction that it will
+lead me to the high road, on the way towards the successful solution of
+my problem. I am going to apply in person."
+
+Full of curiosity, George Gaylord took the clipping and slowly read
+aloud:
+
+
+     "WANTED: A skilled mechanic, qualified to act in the capacity of
+     landscape gardener and agricultural chemist. Applicant must be a
+     strong, healthy young man, of good habits, pleasing address; with a
+     general knowledge of business methods, and an excellent moral
+     character. Qualifications must be well attested by recommendations
+     from reliable parties. A graduate of the Philadelphia School of
+     Industrial Art is preferred. Salary liberal. Apply in person at the
+     office of
+                 BITTERWOOD & BARNARD, Atty's.,
+                   Atlantic Building, Washington, D. C."
+
+
+"This is curious! It seems to point directly to you, Fillmore. I do
+wonder in what peculiar capacity you are to act, and who your real
+employer is to be? I shall be full of unsatisfied curiosity until I know
+the sequel."
+
+At this moment George Gaylord was suddenly interrupted by an
+unlooked-for gust of wind whirling around the shoulders of the big rock
+standing above and behind them. The fluttering paper slipped from his
+fingers and went sailing away over the tree tops, down the mountain
+side, with that erratic up and down, eddying motion peculiar to run
+away, fly away papers. In an instant both young men were upon their
+feet, intently watching the uncertain flight of the clipping. A few
+moments later it fell to the ground, just at the feet of two ladies who,
+with heads protected from the sun by large parasols, were slowly walking
+around the bend of the broad, well kept road, winding down the mountain
+side. The younger of the two ladies picked up the advertisement,
+hurriedly scanned it, and then raised her eyes to discover the two young
+men as probable owners of the truant paper.
+
+"Ah!" said George Gaylord, "I recognize those people. It is Miss
+Fenwick and her travelling companion. Come along Fillmore, let us join
+them at once and claim your lost clipping. The opportunity for an
+introduction to two very interesting ladies, who are among the most
+noted guests of the hotel, is too good to be lost."
+
+Accordingly they hurried down the steep path that joined the road near
+where the ladies were still waiting, at a point full three hundred feet
+below.
+
+Approaching, with hats in hand, George Gaylord said: "Allow me, Miss
+Fenwick, to introduce to you my friend and college chum, Fillmore Flagg:
+for a peculiar purpose of his own he wishes to regain possession of that
+flighty paper which, fortunately for him, the prank playing wind carried
+to your feet but a moment ago."
+
+With a slight inclination of her queenly head, she turned with a
+dazzling smile to meet the inquiring glance of Fillmore Flagg. In a
+clear musical voice, full of thrilling cadence and power, she said: "Mr.
+Flagg, if you are particularly interested in this paper, I am very sure
+I am quite happy to meet you, and take pleasure in returning it to you
+now; I trust that we may have the opportunity of becoming better
+acquainted before you leave these lovely mountains." Turning to her
+companion she continued: "Permit me, gentlemen, to introduce my friend
+and companion, Mrs. Bainbridge; Mr. George Gaylord, who is just entering
+the ministry, and his college friend, Mr. Fillmore Flagg."
+
+Mrs. Bainbridge responded with a pleasant smile. She was a tall, well
+formed, well preserved woman of forty; full of a quiet dignity, with an
+air of refinement that fitted her like a garment. Her heavy dark hair,
+coiled high on her shapely head, was just slightly silvered with gray
+and seemed to be a fitting foil to her large melancholy black eyes--eyes
+that from their slumbering depths seemed to impress the beholder with
+suggestions of some mysterious power, gleaming messages, like beacon
+flashes, from her inner life. With her becoming dress of rich, dark
+cloth, gloves and parasol to match, she looked the cultured lady to
+perfection.
+
+Turning her steps up the mountain, Fern Fenwick said: "Gentlemen, as it
+is near the hour for supper, we had best return to the hotel at once. I
+think too, by this time the mail from the station must have arrived."
+Fillmore Flagg was at her side in an instant, choosing the side opposite
+the parasol, which gave him a clear view of her charming profile. George
+Gaylord and Mrs. Bainbridge followed a little more slowly. The
+conversation soon became animated.
+
+While they are thus occupied let us try to get a more complete picture
+of Miss Fern Fenwick. Her round, exquisitely proportioned figure was of
+medium height, straight as an arrow, full of grace with every movement.
+Her quick, firm, elastic step was Youth personified: a charming maiden,
+she, of twenty summers. The artistic outlines of her plump arms and
+shoulders, beautifully modelled bust, throat and neck, so admirably
+proportioned, would have satisfied the most carping critic; poet or
+painter, he would have pronounced them a dream of perfect symmetry. Her
+queenly shaped head, so gracefully poised, like a clear cut cameo, was a
+poem of intellectual development on lines of rarest beauty. Her thick,
+glossy hair of dark chestnut brown, fine as spun silk and inclined to a
+wavy crimp, was artistically coiled in a most becoming style; small ears
+of perfect shape, and transparently pink, were set close to the head.
+The curve of the brow, in perfect line with the pleasing oval of both
+cheek and chin; a Grecian nose and cherub mouth completed the perfect
+contour of a face and head of marvellous beauty--a beauty made more
+brilliant by large, lustrous eyes of blended sapphire and amethyst,
+flashing jewels of deep violet blue, so clearly expressing the varying
+emotions by their ever changing tints of sparkling light. Her dress, a
+close fitting gown of rich, soft, silver gray material, was stylishly
+made, with a narrow line of lovely lace at the throat; perfect fitting
+gloves of the same shade of gray, with a parasol to match, completed a
+costume that seemed to bring out and intensify a most charming
+complexion of pale pink and white, faultlessly smooth and transparently
+pure: at once indicative and prophetic of a strong vital temperament,
+perfect mental and physical health; pure, highly cultured mind and a
+wealth of personal magnetism--that silent charm of mysterious
+potency--pervading and surrounding her like the perfume of sweet
+flowers, winning the unsought admiration, friendship and fidelity of all
+who came within the radiance of her powerful magnetic aura. All this,
+and more, Fillmore Flagg perceived and felt. He walked and talked as one
+in a dream. Never before had he met so fair a vision of female
+loveliness, with grace so winning, gestures so perfect and voice so
+musical. His heart, overflowing with a new ecstatic emotion, paid silent
+homage to this queenly creature. He was lost in admiration. Swallowed up
+and absorbed by the first incoming wave of a great love. He was lifted
+out of himself, above and beyond all gross things of earth, into a
+heaven of pure delight. His better nature was thrilled and profoundly
+moved. He felt that in the presence of this pure, angelic woman he
+could never again do an unworthy act. A life work, up to the standard of
+his highest ideal, was a tribute of devotion he would willingly lay at
+her feet.
+
+All too soon for Fillmore Flagg the moments flew by. Almost before he
+was aware of it they were ascending the steps of the hotel. Pausing on
+the broad veranda for a moment before separating, Fern Fenwick said:
+"Gentlemen, Mrs. Bainbridge and myself have planned for a carriage drive
+to-morrow to Sam's Point. We have two seats in our conveyance at your
+disposal and would be delighted to have you accompany us. May we hope
+that you both can come with us?"
+
+Fillmore Flagg and George Gaylord both eagerly accepted the invitation,
+the ladies passed on to their rooms, while the young men turned their
+steps once more to the rustic bench to enjoy the magnificent sunset view
+of the landscape they had so much admired earlier in the day.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+THE STORY OF A STONE AND WHAT CAME AFTER.
+
+
+Sam's Point, the crowning backbone of the highest mountain in the
+Shawangunk range, bends away from the general course of its fellows
+apparently for the especial purpose of giving the mountain climber, by
+its isolation, a commanding view in almost every direction except to the
+north-east. For miles in extent the flat, rocky top of this crown forms
+a promenade of magnificent proportions up amid the clouds. In shape it
+is a long, slender triangle, about three miles from its base westward to
+the point where its highest altitude is reached, two thousand three
+hundred and forty feet above tide-water. Cradled in its rocky bosom,
+near the base of the triangle, lies a crystal lake--one hundred and
+fifty acres of sparkling water. At this point the promenade is fully
+three-fourths of a mile wide, gradually narrowing to a width of less
+than one hundred feet at the extreme point. The long battlemented sides
+of this lofty triangle, like some mighty fortress, grim and frowning,
+are protected and supported by perpendicular cliffs of black rock,
+rising like some bastioned wall of terrifying proportions, two hundred
+feet above the shoulder of the mountain. In a sheltered nook, near the
+point, about five hundred feet below the base of the cliffs, stands the
+Sam's Point Hotel, scarcely more than a cottage in size. Here Fern
+Fenwick's party left the carriage. Taking the narrow, zig-zag pathway
+that led to the cliffs and often pausing to admire the immensity and
+grandeur of the black rock palisades towering so far above them, they
+soon found themselves under the nose of the point of rocks. Entering the
+crevice in the cliffs known as "The Chimney Stairway," they commenced
+the steep and toilsome climb to the summit; Fillmore Flagg taking the
+lead and assisting Miss Fenwick, George Gaylord performing the same
+service for Mrs. Bainbridge; fifteen minutes later they stood, almost
+breathless, upon the summit, the blue sky all about them, a precipice on
+either hand where shimmering, giddy space seemed to yawn so frightfully
+near. Meanwhile a strong, buffeting wind tugged at ribbons and capes,
+hats and bonnets, so furiously that walking was hazardous; it gave one
+such an uneasy sensation of giddiness and unstable equilibrium
+generally, that the temptation to fly over the edge of the cliff was
+hard to resist. A huge egg-shaped boulder, twenty-five feet in height
+and as large as a house, poised rather unsteadily on its rounded base,
+was quite near and gave promise of protection from the violence of the
+wind. With one accord our party scrambled towards it, the ladies
+clinging tightly to their escorts with one hand, a firm grip on hat or
+bonnet with the other. Thus sheltered, and more at ease, they slowly
+drank in the glorious vision which greeted the eye on every hand.
+Looking down as from a balloon, at the foot of the mountain, on the
+north side, the eye was charmed by the length and beauty of the Rondout
+Valley, through which ran the Delaware and Hudson Canal, and the Rondout
+River. For miles on either side of canal and river the valley was made
+more lovely by its checkered farms and gleaming white villages. Directly
+at the foot of the mountain on the south side, the broader valley of the
+Wallkill presented an equally beautiful and diversified picture of farm,
+hamlet and village. Beyond these, in every direction save to the
+north-east, vast stretches of country lay spread out like a map; the
+mountains far and near, so dwarfed as to give to the surface the
+appearance of billowy plains, almost level where they approached the
+edge of the horizon. The wonderful extent and scope of the view was
+bounded by the line of the horizon, at least one hundred miles distant.
+Three-fourths of this sweeping circle responded to the unaided vision,
+disclosing the blue hills and hazy mountain peaks located in five
+states: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut and
+Massachusetts, altogether presenting in its immensity a landscape as
+variegated and charming as it was wondrously beautiful and attractive--a
+marvellous picture of indescribable loveliness never to be forgotten.
+
+"How inspiringly magnificent!" said Fillmore Flagg: "All the sublimity
+of my nature is satisfied."
+
+"And I," said Fern Fenwick, "am too profoundly impressed to talk. I
+would that I could spend hours here in silent admiration."
+
+"I think," said Mrs. Bainbridge, "that we would better move further back
+on the rocky summit where doubtless, sheltered seats may be found, then
+we can all enjoy this most wonderful of views at our leisure and with
+some degree of comfort."
+
+"Yes," said George Gaylord, "that will be ever so much nicer."
+
+"Stop a moment," said Fern Fenwick, who for some moments had been
+examining the huge boulder which sheltered them, "Have you noticed the
+curious formation of this immense stone? How many hundreds of tons it
+may weigh, I hardly dare guess. Geologically speaking, it is a 'stranger
+rock,' not in any way related to the rocks of this mountain, nor of the
+mountains near here. It is a mammoth conglomerate of such an
+interestingly curious compound and of such flinty hardness. At the time
+of its formation enormous pressure, coupled with the most intense heat,
+must have molded this strange mass together. Coarse and fine gravel,
+smooth, round pebbles, from the size of a pigeon's egg to that of a
+two-hundred-pound boulder, are all jumbled together in great confusion,
+and so firmly cemented in this immense globular mass of that peculiar,
+tenacious clay of greenish gray color, which forms so large a part of
+the drift formation, and which is so widely distributed over the face
+of our globe--that strange, unaccountable, isolated and unrelated
+formation, which still remains an unsolved puzzle by our best
+geologists. I wish you to observe the long sides of this strange rock,
+especially where the exposed sides of the pebbles have been worn down
+smooth and even with the clay--how they are marked and striated by
+shallow grooves, all running in one direction as straight as though
+graven by rule. Is it possible that any freak or flood of the glacial
+period could have floated this huge rock to its resting place on the
+very summit of this high mountain, almost two thousand five hundred feet
+above the level of the sea? Oh! tell me, ye listening mortals, or ye
+winged winds that blow and pull my ribbons so! whence came this stranger
+rock? how formed? and how were its smooth, worn sides so systematically
+engraved?"
+
+Fern Fenwick closed her series of queries with a gradually rising pitch
+and inflection in the ringing tones of her clear, musical voice. With
+figure erect, eyes flashing, cheeks glowing and hands uplifted, she
+seemed the personification of some priestess of science. Fillmore Flagg
+and George Gaylord gazed at her with the admiration of amazement. Mrs.
+Bainbridge exclaimed:
+
+"Why Fern Fenwick! How you do go on with such nonsense, to be sure. No
+doubt these gentlemen, from this time forward, will look at you as some
+scientific freak or geological professor of the female persuasion, but
+recently escaped from the walls of some famous college!"
+
+"Mrs. Bainbridge," said Fillmore Flagg, "of course we understand that
+you were joking in what you said just now: that you really admire the
+terse, clear, and wonderfully complete description of this strange rock
+by Miss Fenwick, quite as much as we do." Turning to Fern Fenwick, he
+continued: "I believe, Miss Fenwick, that I can throw some light on the
+puzzling questions you have so poetically propounded."
+
+"Pray do tell us, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick; "I can't remember when
+I was so excited with interest on any subject before."
+
+"Very well," said Fillmore Flagg: "That curiously able and intellectual
+man, Mr. Ignatius Donnelly, in his very interesting book called
+'Ragnarok,' or 'The Age of Fire and Gravel,' puts forth a most
+remarkable theory regarding the drift formation, to the truth of which
+this huge rock seems to bear witness. The theory, briefly stated, is as
+follows: A great many ages ago, when this globe of ours was still in the
+period of cataclysms, rolling through space around the sun, it came in
+contact with a portion of the end of the tail of some enormous comet,
+sweeping through the universe on its erratic course. This great boulder
+is a sample of the component parts of that fiery tail, which smote the
+exposed face of the earth so terribly with the drift deposit at that
+time of dire disaster. The age of fire and gravel, surely! This curious
+clay, now of such flinty hardness, was at one time the exceedingly fine
+dust of the comet, cohering, collecting and embedding its mixture of
+pebbles and gravel by the heat and pressure of the friction caused by
+its incalculably swift passage through space for periods of uncounted
+ages. Remember that the heat of all drift material in the tail of the
+comet was greatly intensified by the explosion of accompanying gases as
+they came in contact with the atmosphere of our earth. All inflammable
+material on the face of the globe, which was exposed at the time of its
+passage through the tail of the comet, was burned up: both earth and sky
+were on fire! Fortunately our flying globe made a quick passage, thus it
+happened that large portions of its unexposed surface wholly escaped
+this terrible downpour of fire and gravel, and the absence of all drift
+deposit on these places is logically accounted for. The atmosphere, so
+heated during that awful period, drank up the waters of the earth--then
+came the floods, as the waters fell again. Then followed the reaction
+period of extreme cold, snow and ice--the glacial period. This
+particular rock, while following in the train of its parent comet,
+though lagging many thousands of miles behind, still, being so very
+large, moved with accelerated speed towards the comet's head, passing on
+its way countless millions of smaller particles, whose cutting edges
+scored these grooves. On entering the earth's atmosphere, on account of
+its great size, this boulder, through the law of attraction, quickly
+moved to the outermost fringe of the comet's tail nearest the earth,
+therefore was the first to alight on the top of this mountain, far away
+from all smaller drift material.
+
+"I hope, Miss Fenwick, that my brief and rather speculative answers to
+your questions, reasoning as I did, from Mr. Donnelly's point of view,
+may prove at least in a measure satisfactory."
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick, "your answers to my questions
+have all been very ingenious: equally interesting and satisfactory,
+especially as to how this mammoth conglomerate came by its grooved lines
+and, later how it managed to find a resting place on this mountain top,
+so far from its kind. Mr. Donnelly's theory of accounting for the
+widely scattered deposits of the drift formation is the most reasonable
+and logical of anything I have ever read or heard. Doubtless, in course
+of time, it may be proven the only true one. I see Mr. Gaylord and Mrs.
+Bainbridge are becoming weary of all this talk about rocks: let us move
+further back from the point in search of more sheltered and comfortable
+seats."
+
+Accordingly they chose the central path and were soon seated, enjoying
+the changed landscape from a new point of view. However, Mr. Gaylord was
+not yet satisfied and soon proposed a walk to the lake. Mrs. Bainbridge
+was willing but Miss Fenwick had walked enough for one day. A quiet
+enjoyment of her lofty outlook was what she now most desired.
+
+"Very well, Fern," said Mrs. Bainbridge, "Mr. Gaylord will accompany me
+to the lake and we will bring back for lunch some of those very large,
+delicious blueberries, which Mr. Gaylord assures me are growing so
+abundantly around the shores of the lake. You and Mr. Flagg shall remain
+here with the lunch baskets."
+
+This plan was agreed to, and very soon Mrs. Bainbridge and her escort
+had disappeared on their way to the lake. To Fillmore Flagg it seemed a
+long time that Fern Fenwick had been sitting so quietly, apparently
+absorbed in admiring the billowy miles of landscape unrolled so far to
+the southward. In reality, each was thinking of the other.
+
+"Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick slowly, "will you pardon me for asking
+you some very abrupt questions, or what may seem such when considering
+our brief acquaintance?"
+
+"Certainly," said Fillmore Flagg, "I hope my replies this time may prove
+as satisfactory as those I gave in regard to the rock. The pardon you
+crave is granted in advance. Pray proceed."
+
+"Tell me, Mr. Flagg, why are you so much interested in that
+advertisement which came to me so unceremoniously yesterday? And again,
+tell me why you are so moved and determined to better the conditions of
+farm life? I suppose you know that I have wealth and leisure at my
+disposal; it may prove that I can be of great assistance to you. This is
+my excuse for asking you for more details in regard to your personal
+plans."
+
+With a heart filled with hope, Fillmore Flagg began the recital of the
+story he had given to George Gaylord on the terrace bench. With frequent
+glances of encouragement from Fern Fenwick, his inspiration and
+eloquence grew upon him. He gave a masterly statement of the work, his
+preparation, hopes and plans. Delighted beyond measure with the
+undisguised appreciation and approval of this charming woman, whose very
+destiny in the vista of a coming future, seemed to him to be linked in
+some mysterious manner with the success of his most cherished ambitions,
+he cleverly enlarged and perfected the original statement. As he
+concluded, Fern Fenwick rose to her feet with hands extended, her face
+glowing with interested enthusiasm, saying:
+
+"Mr. Flagg, I most heartily congratulate you on the noble life-work you
+have planned and chosen, I thank you again and again for the valuable
+facts you have placed so confidingly in my possession, in regard to
+yourself and your work. Rest assured my interest and assistance
+henceforth are at your command. You will understand this more clearly
+when I tell you that Bitterwood & Barnard are my attorneys, and the
+advertisement which played such an important part in bringing us
+together here in these mountains, was drawn up by them for my purposes.
+That it should bring to me a person of your wonderful ability,
+integrity, skill and knowledge, is an almost unhoped for piece of good
+fortune. You are the one, of all others, most eminently fitted to help
+me to a successful solution of my problem, which you have so admirably
+stated. Hereafter I am your debtor. I hope to prove a not unworthy
+employer, or, to put it more pleasantly, an interested co-worker. Will
+you do me the favor of considering yourself as pledged from this moment
+to take up my work? Go at once to my attorneys in Washington, ask them
+for a letter of introduction to me, that you may get more complete
+details of my plans and work, saying not a word of our present
+acquaintance. I will furnish you with a check on my Washington bankers,
+with which to defray your expenses. To-morrow, in company with Mrs.
+Bainbridge, I go to my summer home on the Hudson near Newburgh, where
+letters will reach me. This is the twenty-eighth of August; on the fifth
+of September, at noon meet me in the station at Newburgh. Come prepared
+to devote a week at the least in discussing the scope and plan of our
+work, devising ways and means etc. I very much desire that you have an
+interview with my father, I know he will be pleased with you. Do these
+arrangements suit your convenience? Do they meet your entire approval?"
+
+"I am greatly elated," said Fillmore Flagg, "at this my golden
+opportunity of commencing what you have so kindly named as 'our' work,
+under such auspicious circumstances. I thank you, Miss Fenwick, more
+than words can tell, for your confidence in my integrity and ability, I
+will do my best to retain that confidence. I am ready to start for
+Washington to-morrow. I will follow your instructions, and will report
+to you by letter from that city, and then meet you at Newburgh at the
+appointed time."
+
+As he finished his reply Fern Fenwick said: "Mr. Flagg, I am very much
+pleased with your prompt decision in favor of my arrangements. I see our
+friends returning from the lake, will you help me to spread the lunch?"
+
+With keen appetites they enjoyed the lunch especially the delicious
+blueberries which George Gaylord and Mrs. Bainbridge had brought from
+the lake. The hours passed quickly; the drive back to the hotel was
+without mishap or incident: the entire party, on separating, voted it a
+day of perfect pleasure, Fillmore Flagg and George Gaylord expressing
+their thanks to the ladies for their kind invitation which had given
+them such a delightful excursion.
+
+Later, George Gaylord called at the room of his chum for a few moments
+chat. "Come in," said Fillmore Flagg, "I was just thinking of you. I
+have made up my mind to go to Washington to-morrow for the purpose of
+answering that advertisement. How much longer do you propose to remain
+here?"
+
+"Not more than two weeks," replied George Gaylord. "I understand Miss
+Fenwick and Mrs. Bainbridge are going away to-morrow. I am likely to
+have a very quiet time, all by my lone self: I think I must take to
+bowling for an hour or two each day just to keep up my exercise and kill
+time. I hope you may be entirely successful in your interview with
+Bitterwood & Barnard. Remember how much I am interested in this matter,
+and your promise to let me know the result. By the way, what a perfectly
+delightful day we have had, thanks to that lucky gust of wind which
+tore your clipping from my fingers and landed it at Miss Fenwick's
+dainty feet. What a talented young lady she is, and so handsome too. Her
+lecture on the mountain top about that stone would have been a credit to
+any one. I never saw her look such a picture of perfect beauty before.
+She seemed wonderfully interested in you, Fillmore, especially after
+your brilliant reply to her series of apparently unanswerable questions.
+I declare, the profoundness, the ingeniousness, and the boldness of your
+successful answers filled me with amazement! You fairly surpassed
+yourself; all the time looking your best, just like a hero. Yet when you
+looked at Miss Fenwick you seemed just at the point of falling down to
+worship her. I can't blame you. What a glorious couple you two would
+make! If it were not for her immense wealth I believe you could win her;
+any one can see that you have made a very favorable impression. Perhaps
+you can win her as it is--I wish you all success, you certainly deserve
+it. Mrs. Bainbridge tells me that at the death of Miss Fenwick's father,
+some years ago, she became sole heir to his vast fortune; most of it in
+very rich Alaska gold mines."
+
+"Are you quite sure," said Fillmore Flagg, "that her father is dead?"
+
+"Yes Fillmore, I am quite sure; although it is just possible that I may
+have misunderstood Mrs. Bainbridge. In my hotel acquaintance with that
+lady I discover that she is a very intelligent and accomplished person
+of rare good sense. Splendid company; we seem to get on famously
+together, I shall miss her very much I am sure. As usual, I am doing all
+the talking: it is now your turn to say something."
+
+"I think I could," said Fillmore Flagg, "if my chatterbox friend,
+George Gaylord, would only give me a chance. Miss Fenwick I regard as
+the most beautiful and cultured woman I have ever met. I do admire her
+very much, but the possibility of ever winning her for a wife is, at
+this time, too remote for me to consider for a moment. I must now pack
+my trunk and then see the hotel clerk about getting it to the railway
+station. So good night, George, I will see you again in the morning."
+
+That night Fillmore Flagg could not sleep. The beautiful image of Fern
+Fenwick was before him the moment he closed his eyes. The events of the
+past two days, with their crowding memories, kept racing through his
+mind: he could not think calmly or connectedly. He was in a fever of
+expectancy regarding the meeting at Newburgh, and the prospect of
+spending a whole week at Miss Fenwick's cottage on the Hudson. Then and
+there, no doubt, she would tell him all about herself, her father, her
+particular work, when and why she became interested in it etc. But what
+about the father? How could he have an interview with her father, if
+Mrs. Bainbridge was correct in saying that Mr. Fenwick had been dead for
+several years? It was a mystery he could not solve. He did not doubt
+Fern Fenwick for a moment and felt sure she would, at the proper time,
+make everything plain. How gracious and winning she had been to him; she
+seemed to bid him to have courage. In spite of her great wealth, and a
+hundred other obstacles that might exist, he was more and more in love
+every hour. If proving himself worthy of her confidence in every way
+would win her love, surely then, he would win it. With this
+determination fixed in his mind he fell asleep.
+
+In her room that night, as Fern Fenwick brushed her hair and prepared
+herself for rest, she often paused to ponder over her strange meeting
+with Fillmore Flagg; thinking what a fine, manly looking fellow he was,
+and how well he could talk; how thoroughly equipped he was to take up
+the question of improving farm life, the lives of farmers and their
+families--the question of all questions for her. Surely, Mr. Flagg bore
+the stamp of destiny! He was the man of all men to make her work a
+complete success. How fortunate she was to secure his valuable services.
+How strange, that after a brief acquaintance of only two days, she
+should have such perfect confidence in a comparative stranger. Yet, she
+did not doubt his integrity; she knew he was loyalty itself; she
+intuitively felt that she could trust him implicitly--he would never
+betray her interests under any circumstances. She knew from his every
+look, tone and gesture that he admired her intensely, devotedly. Her own
+feelings, she did not care to analyze. With a sigh, more of pleasure
+than weariness, she composed herself for the night and was soon lost in
+sleep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+FAIRY FERN COTTAGE.
+
+
+One week has passed since the events narrated in the previous chapter.
+At Cornwall on the Hudson, on a West Shore train speeding north, we find
+Fillmore Flagg; his mission at Washington successfully accomplished, the
+letter of introduction from Bitterwood & Barnard secured. In another
+short hour he will be at Newburgh. Will the lovely face of Fern Fenwick
+be the first to greet him? As the moments fly by, his heart beats
+faster. He feels the surging tide of his all-absorbing love for this
+beautiful woman, thrilling and permeating his entire being. He tries to
+be calm, to think what he ought to say that would be fitting and
+appropriate; he knows his eyes are blazing and his cheeks glowing with
+an unwonted fire, still his thoughts refuse to flow into the satisfying
+forms of speech he most desires to use at the coming meeting, which
+seems to him to be the marking of a great crisis in his life. Ah! There
+is the whistle sounding! The speed of the train is checked as it
+approaches the station. He steps on to the platform while the train is
+still moving. He beholds many upturned faces in the surging crowd
+between him and the doorway of the ladies' waiting room, but Miss
+Fenwick he cannot see. Will he ever reach that room? Has anything
+happened to her? A great fear contracts his heart, he fancies he fairly
+staggers as he enters the door. In an instant he is suffused with a
+great joy. By the window, awaiting his approach, stands Fern Fenwick,
+the perfect picture of cool, contented loveliness. She extends her hand
+and greets him with a firm clasp of hearty welcome, and a second edition
+of that dazzling smile, so becoming to her, so bewitching to him.
+
+"How do you do, Mr. Flagg? I believe your train must be late. How well
+you are looking, in spite of the heat and the dust! We will have your
+baggage secured as soon as possible and placed in the carriage, then we
+will drive to the cottage in time for lunch."
+
+"Thank you Miss Fenwick, I am delighted to see you looking so well. My
+journey from Washington has been a very pleasant one; I have enjoyed it
+and have not suffered from the heat."
+
+The carriage now came up, they stepped in and commenced the beautiful
+drive of one and one-half miles to "Fairy Fern Cottage," which was
+charmingly located on the summit of these famously terraced hills. Hills
+that have been historic since the revolutionary days of General
+Washington, when their slopes were white with the tents of his soldiers.
+As they approached the cottage, the artistic eye of Fillmore Flagg noted
+with pleasure the broad expanse of spacious lawn, gently sloping down to
+the road. Half-moon-shaped, it presented for his admiration five acres
+of smoothly shaven, velvety green. For one-eighth of a mile, the entire
+width of the lawn and cottage grounds, a low wall of ornamental cut
+stone separated the lawn from the road and formed the straight line of
+the half-moon. From the gates at either end of the wall a broad,
+beautifully kept driveway swept around the semicircle of the lawn,
+passing just in front of the cottage at the center of the deep bay of
+the half-moon. On each side of the driveway the greensward was
+beautified by alternating star and diamond-shaped plots of geraniums,
+roses, gladioluses, canna and nasturtions. Sitting close to the outer
+edge of the drive, about ten feet apart, commencing at the corners of
+the porch on either side, were rows of potted palms extending around the
+curve, one hundred and fifty feet each way--the palms gradually growing
+smaller as the distance from the cottage became greater. The effect was
+beautifully unique and suggestively semi-tropical. The cottage and lawn
+was embayed by a crowning crescent of choice foliage and shade trees;
+the thin horns of the crescent terminated at the gateways in low gray
+stone towers. From these points the horns gradually grew broader and the
+shrubbery rose higher. First the rhododendrons mixed with clumps of
+hollyhocks, next flowering almonds, roses, spireas and syringas; then
+came the drooping long leaf sugar pines, with an artistic mingling of
+slender limbed graceful silver birches: farther back were the taller
+firs and spruces, interspersed with thick clumps of small copper
+beeches, extending to and joining at the back of the cottage, the dense
+forest of tall, straight bodied elms, oaks and maples which partly hid
+and shaded the stables and the kitchen portion of the cottage.
+
+The cottage itself was built of gray stone; with thick walls and large,
+low, deep seated windows. It was two stories in height, with three
+square towers rising twenty feet higher. The central tower was larger,
+and gave space within its walls for one grand room of magnificent
+proportions, thirty feet square and with a fifteen foot ceiling. The
+general effect of the cottage, lawn, and crescent background of foliage
+and forest, was as novel as it was beautiful. As the carriage entered
+the farther gateway, Fillmore Flagg was surprised and delighted:
+
+"How perfectly exquisite!" he exclaimed: "A real gem! A romantic scene
+from fairyland! Rightly named 'Fairy Fern Cottage!' It is a fitting home
+for Fern Fenwick."
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick as they stepped from the
+carriage to the porch: "I appreciate your praise of my cottage home. I
+love it, I am proud of it, I give you a hearty welcome to its halls. May
+your memories of it prove always pleasant. Let us enter. During your
+stay you are to occupy the front room on the second floor, the one
+under the right hand tower. I think you will find the view from the
+windows very pleasing and attractive. The luncheon bell will sound in
+just half an hour."
+
+In the dining room Fillmore Flagg found Mrs. Bainbridge who greeted him
+very cordially. She sat at the left of Fern Fenwick, who was at the head
+of the table. The table itself was oval shaped, very large, seemingly of
+rich, solid mahogany; the china and silver were elegant and artistic.
+The center piece was a large silver tray filled with a wonderful
+collection of rare ferns. Around it a ring of cut glass bouquet holders,
+filled with spikes of flaming gladioluses, formed a most effective
+border.
+
+"You are to sit here at my right, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick.
+
+As Fillmore Flagg took the proffered seat, he thought her a most
+charming hostess, admirably fitted to preside over this exquisitely
+decorated table. He looked in vain for her father; finally concluding
+that Mr. Fenwick must be a confirmed invalid, confined to his room.
+Luncheon over, Fern Fenwick invited Fillmore Flagg to her study to
+consider the business of the work before them. Her study proved to be
+the large square room in the central tower, which was so generously
+lighted by its eight large windows. The furniture was of carved oak; the
+carpet and hangings, rich and heavy, were of a pale lilac tint, which
+gave an air of peaceful quiet and harmony to the room. From the front
+window, looking eastward, a long stretch of the beautiful Hudson could
+be seen at one sweeping glance. In the south east corner of the room
+stood Fern Fenwick's desk, a large one with a roll top. At the right of
+the desk, on an easel against the wall, was a very fine, life size
+crayon portrait of a noble looking man of sixty winters or more. The
+massive forehead was both broad and high and very smooth. The eyes were
+wide apart, large and expressive, the full beard, thick and fine; the
+hair, abundant and wavy. Both hair and beard were evenly tinged with
+gray. The body was large, erect and well proportioned--it fittingly
+matched the noble head. The portrait impressed one as being life-like
+and full of character. Close beside the easel was a large arm chair,
+upholstered with stuffed leather, a grayish brown. Lying across the arms
+of the chair was a large, peculiarly shaped trumpet of aluminum,
+ornamented with a heavy cord and tassel of gray silk.
+
+"Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick, "this is my private workroom; here I am
+undisturbed and not at home to callers. This is my desk. Here you see my
+father's portrait: this is his favorite chair. Will you be seated in the
+smaller chair near it? I will sit in the chair at my desk."
+
+"Pardon me, Miss Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "Up to this time I had
+thought of you as living here with your father: I now perceive, from the
+way you speak of his portrait and of his favorite chair, that he must be
+dead. Please correct me if I am wrong in my conclusions."
+
+"I will explain the situation in a very few words," said Fern Fenwick.
+
+"In the eyes of the world I am an orphan, my father and mother having
+both passed from this to the land of spirit. The world, in its blind
+ignorance, calls them dead. To me, thanks to my mediumship, and to the
+mighty truth of spirit communion, they are still conscious, living,
+loving parents. Every day, here in this room, they come to me and
+through the trumpet there, speak to me as naturally, as fluently and as
+lovingly as ever. I feel and realize their constant watchfulness and
+loving care. In times of need their advice never fails, always proving
+as wise as it is unerring. They never for a moment allow me to realize
+that I am an orphan in any sense of the word. The word Death has no
+terrors for me: I realize that for them it means simply a happy
+transition to a higher life, filled with broader and brighter
+possibilities; and, blessed truth! that they are permitted to come to me
+when I need them. I sometimes shudder when I think what might have
+happened to me if I had not been born and bred a spiritualist and a
+medium. However, we will speak of these things more at length later on.
+At this time, under my father's guidance and with your assistance, I am
+to carry out and complete his plans for the improvement of farm life on
+lines quite in harmony with your ideas. I know he approves of you and of
+your work, and has confidence in your integrity and ability. At the
+proper time he will speak to you personally through the trumpet. Let us
+now consider another matter pertinent at this time.
+
+"In order that you may thoroughly understand the situation that
+surrounds and affects our work, it will be necessary for me to tell you
+the story of my life, and with it the story of the life of my father."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+FENNIMORE FENWICK.
+
+
+"On a pioneer farm in northwestern Iowa, with a broad expanse of
+beautiful prairie on every side, far from town or village, lived my
+grandfather, George Fenwick. On this farm in October, 1840, my father,
+Fennimore Fenwick, was born. Of a family of nine children, five boys and
+four girls, he was the fifth, two of the brothers and two of the sisters
+being older. Closely associated as a healthy, harmonious family of
+children, they grew up surrounded by the conditions of an isolated farm
+life, so general in the widely scattered settlements of those early
+days, with only now and then rare chances for a little schooling of the
+most primitive character. However, they shared with each other their
+joys and sorrows, their plays and privations; always forbearing and
+patient, kind and affectionate, light-hearted, sympathetic and helpful,
+they did much to develop that broad, loving, genial nature which made my
+father kin to all mankind. So just and true! So nobly unselfish! A
+signal illustration of the great blessing which Nature's beneficent law
+of compensation brings to large families.
+
+"Passing on to September, 1865, at the close of the war of the
+rebellion, we find the large family, so long and harmoniously united,
+now separated and widely scattered. Grandfather and grandmother Fenwick
+both died during the closing year of the war. With the exception of my
+father, the brothers and sisters were all married and settled on farms
+of their own: some in Iowa, one in Missouri, two in Kansas, and two in
+Minnesota. The homestead was divided between the two younger brothers.
+All of the brothers served as soldiers, good and true, during the war;
+the two younger only one year each. My father, more fortunate than the
+others, by his bravery and soldierly excellence won a commission, and
+came home the captain of his company.
+
+"From this point forward we will follow my father's career as he makes a
+pathway in life for himself.
+
+"From 1865 to 1871 he devoted his time and his savings to hard study in
+the best of schools, finishing a master of his profession--a mining
+engineer and expert in assaying and metallurgy. From 1871 to 1882 he was
+general manager of a wealthy mining company in Colorado at a large
+salary, making a name for himself as one of the most skillful and
+successful men in the profession. While in Colorado my father was
+haunted by an intuitive feeling that the gold-bearing quartz region of
+Alaska held a rich find in store for him. In October, 1882, a very
+strong corporation was organized in San Francisco, 'The Alaska Mining
+Co.,' to open and operate their extensive mines in Alaska. The directors
+of the company chose my father manager. They offered him an increased
+salary to go to Alaska to take entire charge of the work. This position
+he accepted and retained for five years. During that time he discovered
+a very rich mine on a small, rocky island near the coast. In partnership
+with his old friend, Mr. Dunbar, one of the San Francisco directors of
+the Alaska Mining Co., my father, at the end of five years service for
+the company, had developed the mine on the island into one of the best
+paying and most extensive of that famously rich gold bearing quartz
+region. This was the foundation and support of his vast fortune, which
+thereafter required his entire attention. At the death of Mr. Dunbar,
+which occurred in 1890, his one-third interest in the mine passed to his
+son, Dewitt C. Dunbar, a young man of great energy and integrity, with
+an excellent business education. He impressed my father as one in every
+way trustworthy and capable. At my father's request, Dewitt C. Dunbar,
+accompanied by his young wife, at once removed to Alaska. Under my
+father's tuition he began to prepare himself to take the active
+management of the mine, which had been christened 'The Martina.'
+
+"In 1882, while on his first visit to San Francisco, my father met and
+loved Martina Morrison, my mother--my beautiful mother. She was
+twenty-seven, my father forty-two. They were perfectly adapted to each
+other, and both equally charmed and devoted. She possessed a fine mind,
+well cultured; a handsome physique, charmingly graceful in every
+movement; and, her crowning glory, an exceedingly amiable disposition.
+Martina Morrison, by those who knew her longest and best, was declared
+to be the soul of honor. She was an excellent medium, an enthusiastic
+and devoted Spiritualist--one of its purest and most eloquent exponents,
+highly esteemed by all as an able and earnest worker in the service of
+the two worlds. Fennimore Fenwick, my father, soon became much
+interested in her wonderful mediumship, and later became convinced of
+the absolute verity of the mighty truths of Spiritualism. He at once
+declared himself its willing and outspoken advocate: in his enthusiasm
+of delight he even hailed it as the coming religion of the world.
+
+"Martina Morrison had such confidence in my father's future mining
+success, that she readily yielded to his urgent request for a speedy
+marriage, that she might accompany him on his first trip to Alaska. And
+thus it was they sailed away on their bridal tour, their destination
+that far off land of flashing glacier and unexplored forest, almost, if
+not quite, beyond the borders of civilization. This long voyage to an
+unknown country had no terrors for them. They were all the world to each
+other. A bright halo of hope and happiness spread a soft glow of
+enchantment over ship and sail, sea and sky, so vivid, so far reaching,
+that it even touched and tinted the distant shores of that far off, rock
+bound coast of Alaska. Smooth seas, lovely weather and favoring winds
+speeded the voyagers: those halcyon days flew swiftly by. Almost before
+they dreamed it possible the vessel came to anchor in the port that
+marked the end of the voyage. Safely landed, my father reported at once
+at the office of The Alaska Mining Company, only a few miles distant.
+There he commenced his five years of management for the Company, of
+which I have already spoken. There my mother remained until December,
+1884, when she returned to San Francisco, to visit her friends. My
+father followed her five months later."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+AN ALASKA KINDERGARTEN.
+
+
+"In June, 1885, I was born, and soon became a very active member of the
+Fenwick family. I was pronounced by all who saw me an offspring in every
+way worthy of my noble father and my beautiful mother. When I was two
+months old, my parents returned to Alaska, taking me with them. There I
+remained until I was seven years old--seven years in that forbidding
+clime, so near the Arctic Circle. Isolated from other children, yet how
+happy and contented I was. Those years recall a troop of joyous
+memories, with not a bitter one to mar the group. My beloved parents
+were my only companions, playmates, teachers and confidants. I was
+papa's own girl. He was very proud of me and wished me to be with him as
+much as possible. He never wearied in the endless task of answering my
+questions, always so skillfully directing them by suggestions, that in
+my receptive mind there was soon unfolded a clear conception of the
+outlines of the different branches of all useful knowledge. When I was
+four years of age I knew the alphabet perfectly and could spell and
+construct a great number of words with my lettered blocks, and then copy
+them on my slate. When I was five years old, thanks to my mother's
+patient teaching, I could read fairly well. My father's ingenious
+methods soon made me familiar with the key-words of geology, chemistry,
+(including the names of minerals, metals and gases) botany, history,
+geography, physics and astronomy. I was unconsciously taught to
+associate these words or names with the groups, or families, to which
+they belong. I would spend hours with my father in the most delightful
+game of separating and classifying a miscellaneous heap of different
+colored blocks, bearing the names of minerals, metals and gases and the
+key-words of the studies I have just mentioned. To illustrate: The
+astronomy blocks were blue with the names in white letters; the geology
+blocks were a deep reddish brown, with names in gray; chemistry, red,
+lettered in black; botany, green, lettered in yellow; geography, gray,
+lettered in blue; history, black, lettered in red; physics, a deep
+orange yellow, lettered in white; mathematics was represented in a small
+way by the cipher and nine digits, lettered in black upon ten plain
+unpainted blocks, giving in their forms that number of the principal
+geometrical figures, to which was added a shallow box with a broad lid,
+perforated by ten holes, corresponding to the blocks in number, size and
+shape, but large enough for the blocks to easily pass through into the
+box.
+
+"In these groupings my childish interest and delight was intensified by
+my father's personification of the different families, such as: 'Mr.
+Astronomy Blue,' 'Mrs. Geology Brown,' 'Mr. Chemistry Red,' etc. For
+instance, the wonderful stories he told to me of the minerals, metals
+and gases--the sons and daughters of Mr. Chemistry Red, as he termed
+them--describing their loves and hates, the great variety of pranks they
+played, the queer combinations they entered into, the good and the bad
+work they performed, etc. These to me were fairy stories of the most
+charming kind, while at the same time they gave me a correct idea of the
+powers and properties of these unfamiliar things and served to identify
+them more closely as members of the chemistry family. My mother was a
+natural teacher, very proficient in botany, and in history, with its
+flower and fruitage of classic prose and inspiring poetry. She entered
+into my father's 'block-signal-system' of education with an enthusiasm
+as zealous and childish as my own, therefore her contributions to the
+rapidly increasing store of blocks were large and exceedingly
+interesting. Her stories regarding the numerous members of the botany
+and history families proved equally profitable and charming; those about
+plants and trees especially so. These stories and plays of science
+grouping, always associated with such pleasant emotions of my childish
+heart, became permanently fixed and dominant in my mental growth,
+forming separate brain structures around which the details of the
+accumulated knowledge of future years could easily and naturally
+classify and crystallize.
+
+"Thus swiftly passed those happy years of my early girlhood. So
+constantly was I associated with my dear father and mother that schools
+I did not need. In my seventh year, under their supervision, I commenced
+a systematic course of scientific reading which I kept up until after I
+graduated from college. I commenced with the Science Primer Series,
+reading aloud to my parents one half hour each morning and evening,
+conversing and commenting on the different topics as we went along. This
+proved to be a continuation of the game of blocks: just as interesting,
+equally entertaining; all about the same familiar families. I enjoyed it
+so much and never once dreamed I was accomplishing a great deal of good
+hard study. To me it was play; play that gave me more pleasure than any
+of my childish sports. I soon began to ask for an extension of the half
+hour lessons to an hour each; when my request was granted my cup of
+pleasure was full, my joy complete. With each succeeding week my
+interest in all my studies continued to grow. Yet my health remained
+perfect: my physical kept an even pace with my mental growth, largely
+owing, no doubt, to the much enjoyed hours of good romping exercise and
+the dancing and singing which followed my reading lessons.
+
+"You must pardon me, Mr. Flagg, if I should tire you with such a
+detailed account of my child life; my excuse must be, the valuable hints
+it may offer when we come to consider a school system for the children
+of our model co-operative farm."
+
+"I am profoundly interested," said Fillmore Flagg. "The very wonderful
+result flowing from the wise methods conceived by your parents and
+carried out by them so devotedly, fills my mind with admiration and
+offers a flood of suggestions as to the possibilities of what may be
+accomplished by a properly conducted, well equipped school on a
+co-operative farm. But you must not allow me to interrupt--please
+proceed with your very interesting story."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+AN INTERVIEW WITH THE "FAIRIES."
+
+
+Fern Fenwick rose from her seat saying: "As it is near sunset, Mr.
+Flagg, I have something to show you in the way of a surprise, which I
+wish you to see before it becomes too dark: after having seen it you
+will better understand why this house was named 'Fairy Fern Cottage.'
+Therefore I propose that we now adjourn to the cool shade of the grounds
+at the rear of the cottage, postponing the recital of the remainder of
+my story until this evening."
+
+"I shall be delighted to follow you," said Fillmore Flagg. "You have
+excited my curiosity; I am just in the mood to learn all I can about
+this lovely cottage and its beautiful surroundings."
+
+As they reached the shady lawn, so cool and sweet from its recent
+sprinkling, Fillmore Flagg observed that a wide, straight avenue, shaded
+by towering oaks and widely branching elms, led from the rear porch of
+the cottage to the broad front of the roomy stone stables, some two
+hundred and fifty feet distant. In the center of this avenue, with a
+finely graveled carriage drive on either side, rose a long line of huge
+stone arches, ten in number. These imposing structures of solid masonry
+were full thirty feet high, spreading to a width of thirty feet at the
+base. The two center arches were each twenty feet thick; the others, ten
+feet each. The open space between the arches was uniformly ten feet; the
+open circle under each arch was twenty feet in diameter. The vista
+formed by the spaces and arches together, was over two hundred feet in
+length. From the farther arch to the front of the stables lay thirty
+feet of smooth, clean gravel which covered, at this point, the full
+width of the avenue, seventy-five feet, forming the open court, around
+which was built the stables and the two tastefully designed stone
+buildings on either side--one, beautifully fitted up for the residence
+of the superintendent, the other containing the heating and pumping
+apparatus and the electric generator. The two wide center arches
+supported the huge metal tank which held the ample water supply of both
+cottage and outbuildings. Evidently, they were admirably adapted to that
+particular purpose. The rough stone work of the outside of all the
+arches was artistically covered and beautified by a luxuriant growth of
+intermingled ivy and cinnamon vine, which gave a still deeper shade to
+the interior. To the beholder, the exterior effect of the vines on the
+long line of arches was as beautifully romantic as if it really were one
+of those old Abbeys in picturesque ruin, so charmingly described by Sir
+Walter Scott. Deep grooves in the stone work, with light iron frames
+fastened near the outer edges of the arches, gave support during the
+cold weather to a roof of double glass, which covered all the open
+spaces between the arches, converting the whole into one vast
+greenhouse, through which passed the system of heating pipes from the
+furnace room to the cottage, thus providing a roomy winter home for an
+army of tropical plants and shrubs and at the same time protecting the
+water supply from the ill effects of all frost. A screen of interlacing
+vines, in place of the glass roof, now served to make the shade of the
+archway almost complete.
+
+Having sufficiently examined the exterior and becoming to some extent
+familiar with the general plan and purpose of these unique arches,
+Fillmore Flagg and Fern Fenwick returned to the covered entrance from
+the kitchen porch. Here, as they were standing a few feet above the
+ground, they had an unobstructed view of the interior of the archway.
+Through the center, where the lower disc of the open circles touched the
+ground, ran a deep bed of coarse gravel, covered with a thick layer of
+smooth round pebbles, forming a perfectly drained pathway about three
+feet in width which extended uniformly from one end of the archway to
+the other. Conforming to the contour of the arches, rising and receding
+in unison, this pathway was bordered on either side by what appeared to
+be a continuous terrace of three stone benches, each one foot high and
+of the same width. These benches really were very heavy square terra
+cotta pipes, ingeniously cemented together with telescopic joints, and
+having thick, grooved covers which formed the protecting conduits for
+the wires of the lighting system and the pipes of the irrigating and
+heating apparatus.
+
+Artistically arranged on these benches, in pots that were beautifully
+modeled, colored and glazed, was a wonderful collection of choice ferns,
+embracing all of the known varieties in prodigal profusion. The pots
+were so arranged that the smaller varieties occupied the lower benches,
+with the larger ones in gradually increasing sizes on the higher benches
+farther back. Viewed from either end of the archway they formed two
+matchless banks of the rarest verdure and the loveliest foliage
+the world ever saw. Everywhere the eye was delighted by great
+masses of drooping fronds of delicate green, like rare lace in
+fineness--outrivaling in beauty the plumes of the famous birds of
+paradise.
+
+"This is simply superb!" exclaimed Fillmore Flagg. "I never saw anything
+one half so lovely! Shall we walk through now?"
+
+"Wait a moment, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick. "The twilight shadows are
+so deep you have, as yet, caught only a glimpse of the rare beauty of my
+lovely ferns." Stepping quickly to the right side of the first arch, she
+pressed a button and lo! those wonderful banks of ferns, and all the
+space of the archway, was flooded with a glory of soft, clear light. A
+thousand tiny bulbs, in a lovely variety of flower and fern leaf
+patterns, gleamed and glowed from beneath the ferny banks or hung
+pendant, rainbow like, from the roof of this rock ribbed archway.
+
+Held spellbound for some moments by his surprise, admiration and
+delight, Fillmore Flagg murmured softly, almost in a whisper: "Can
+anything surpass this vision of perfect beauty?"
+
+"Yes," said Fern Fenwick, radiant and smiling, "I think it can be
+surpassed, but we must allow the enchantress to use her magic once more,
+by giving my darling ferns their bath of beauty. Then you shall see them
+in their diamond robes."
+
+Saying this, she pressed another button. A thousand tiny pipes,
+concealed in the ribs of the stone roof, gave forth a shower of fine
+spray, filling the long fernery with a hazy mist of cobweb fineness.
+Very soon millions of globules of moisture gathered on leaf, stock,
+frond, plume and tiny tip of every leaflet, reflecting each ray of light
+with diamond-like brilliancy. Pressing another button to shut off the
+spray, Fern Fenwick said:
+
+"Now, Mr. Flagg, my ferns have donned their royal robes and are ready
+for your tour of admiring inspection. I assure you they are worthy of
+it. As a choice collection of ferns in such perfect condition, its equal
+cannot be found in all the wide world! As a collector I am an
+enthusiast; for many months I have travelled far and wide in my efforts
+to add new specimens of rare beauty to the original collection. You may
+guess how much I prize it when I tell you that money could not buy it."
+
+"You are surely a most wonderful enchantress," replied Fillmore Flagg.
+"I feel that under the potent spell of your magical wand, I have entered
+the inner mysteries of some glorious temple of ferns, in a world of
+enchantment! I am so fascinated and dazzled by this marvellous display
+of brilliancy and beauty, that I am moved to pay homage to you, Miss
+Fenwick, as a fitting tribute of loyal devotion to Fern, the Fairy Queen
+of this fair temple."
+
+As he finished his gallant speech, the deep tones of emotion vibrating
+in the full rich voice of Fillmore Flagg, and the look of intense
+admiration which shone so eloquently from his eyes, brought a flush of
+color to the fair face of Fern Fenwick and warned her that it was time
+to be moving. Skillfully keeping up the personification, she quickly
+said:
+
+"Mr. Flagg, I am delighted on behalf of the fairies to express thanks
+for the glowing tribute to their Queen which you have so beautifully
+voiced. Let us now walk through to the end of the fernery and return. As
+we pass along I will point out my favorite plants."
+
+Only a few steps had been taken when Fillmore Flagg paused, listening
+and looking about him in all directions, with a very puzzled expression.
+A delightfully cool breeze was fanning their faces: this breeze was
+laden with some strangely sweet perfume both soothing and stimulating to
+the senses. The air all about them seemed to vibrate with the distant
+melody of some angelic music, now sinking, now swelling in perfect
+harmony; so soft, so clear, so bright, so inspiring in its wealth of
+tone and joyous movement.
+
+"Ah! Miss Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "my senses are all entranced!
+Your wonderful fairies in this grotto of magic are at this moment
+thrilling my being with sensations of the most intense delight! How can
+the Fairy Queen explain? What has she been doing with her magical wand
+to produce such delicious perfume; such entrancing music?"
+
+Fern's merry laugh rang out musically clear, and her eyes sparkled
+roguishly as she replied: "I assure you Mr. Flagg, that in this instance
+the fairies are not responsible. The explanation is quite simple but
+rather long. Therefore let us move forward while I give you the details:
+As we were stepping down on this graveled walk, I turned the switch and
+started the ventilating fans, at the same time connecting the electric
+current with a series of melophones located near the top of the arches.
+Along the ventilating tubes, in a series of small compartments, are
+sponges saturated with different kinds of perfume. These sponges can be
+exposed to the air current or withdrawn at will, yielding a single
+perfume or a blending of as many kinds as one may wish. The wonderful
+variety of these choice blendings, which can be so easily produced,
+affords a constant succession of sweet surprises. The melophones which
+you hear, represent the highest achievement of art in the production of
+automatic musical instruments. This set is the most complete and the
+most expensive one in existence. In construction and final completion
+they cost the inventor and maker three years of constant thought and
+labor. The result is truly marvellous. The perfection of harmony and
+purity of tone are convincing testimonials of their excellence. In
+operation these instruments are placed in a very large double tube made
+from a peculiar kind of metallic alloy recently discovered, which
+affords the most perfect conditions for the conservation and
+conductivity of all musical vibrations. They are capable of producing an
+almost endless variety of choice music. The selection which we hear at
+this time, is one which I have re-named 'The Carol of the Ferns.' Pardon
+me, Mr. Flagg, if in my enthusiasm over the beauties of what you have so
+poetically termed my 'magical temple of ferns,' some of my statements
+should sound like boasting; I assure you they are not so intended. I
+trust that now I have cleared up the mystery to your perfect
+satisfaction."
+
+"Charmingly," said Fillmore Flagg, "Nevertheless my fairyland illusions
+still abide with me; I confess I am still under the spell of the great
+happiness they have given to me--I shall never forget it. The truth in
+this case proves even stranger than fiction; I quite agree with you that
+in all the wide world there is nothing like this! It seems to me that
+those extraordinary melophones yield the finest music I have ever heard.
+In sweetness and purity of tone, softness and wealth of harmony, which
+is pervaded by some electric quality of inspiration, so stirring, so
+thrilling that every nerve and every cell in the body responds. They
+stand unrivaled as the very acme of musical art. I now understand why
+your lovely home here should be named 'Fairy Fern Cottage.' I fully
+appreciate the significance of the title. This royal temple of ferns
+makes the name most fittingly appropriate, and easily ranks this cottage
+as the eighth wonder of the world! The fame of its rare beauty should be
+known in every land. You ought to be very proud of it. I assure you,
+Miss Fenwick, that you are abundantly justified in praising it
+enthusiastically at all times, without fear of being considered
+egotistical. But tell me, if I may be permitted to ask, who was the
+wonderful genius who first conceived and planned the building of this
+imposing line of arches? So useful, so ornamental, so unique, yet so
+perfectly adapted as a summer and a winter home for your ferns and
+flowers and, withal, offering such a perfect title to your unrivaled
+cottage home."
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Flagg, for that question. In my reply I am eager to pay
+a deserved tribute to the dearest and noblest of men--my father.
+Inspired by his love for me, his brilliant mind conceived the entire
+plan and purpose of this curiously novel structure. He succeeded in
+completing it and also in filling it with the original collection of
+ferns, without my knowledge. On the morning of my fifteenth birthday,
+he brought me here to bestow upon me this priceless gift. The surprise
+was a perfect one. When he made me understand that he gave with it a
+deed to the cottage and grounds, the surprise became so intense that it
+fairly took my breath away. I was so overjoyed that by turns I laughed,
+and cried, and hugged papa, until I came very near to having a genuine
+fit of hysteria! At that time we changed the name of the house to Fairy
+Fern Cottage. This is why I am so proud and so fond of my cottage home.
+This is why I appreciate your praise of it so much--why I am so thankful
+for it. I feel sure that you will now appreciate my sincerity when I
+repeat that money could not buy it!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+THE PROBLEM VS. A GOOD MAN WHO IS AS RICH AS HE IS NOBLE.
+
+
+After supper Fern Fenwick and Fillmore Flagg returned to the tower room
+for the continuation of the story. She began by saying:
+
+"Let us return to my father's mining operations in Alaska. In 1892,
+Dewitt C. Dunbar assumed the active management of the Martina mine. A
+large proportion of my father's surplus capital from the mine had been
+invested, through trusty agents, in the cities of San Francisco, Saint
+Paul, Chicago, Washington and New York. We at once planned a tour of
+travel that would give him the opportunity to personally inspect these
+investments, and at the same time give me a chance to see the world,
+and to mingle in society, or so much of it as a continuous hotel life
+might offer.
+
+"For my mother and myself this delightful tour was one long holiday. We
+enjoyed it so much. To me especially, it proved exceedingly profitable;
+geographically speaking, my ideas of the largeness of the world, and the
+vast number of its people, were wonderfully expanded. In December, 1893,
+father completed his investments by the purchase of a winter home in the
+city of Washington, and this summer home here. This cottage was built in
+the year 1900.
+
+"During the summer of 1894 we visited the brothers and sisters of my
+father, who were at that time living with their families on farms in
+Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri. As was generally the
+rule, with a large class of farmers in those states at that time, we
+found them, with but few exceptions, poor, in debt, and very much
+discouraged by the menacing outlook for the future. Farm interests
+everywhere were in a desperate condition. A succession of twenty years
+of falling prices for all farm products, accompanied by frequent
+calamities, such as hail storms, hurricanes, hot, blighting winds,
+drouth and armies of grasshoppers, had so multiplied and magnified the
+farm debts, and so reduced the value of farm, stock, and product, that
+even the interest on the indebtedness could no longer be kept up; ruin
+and beggary threatened the entire community of farmers. Under the severe
+pressure of these conditions, great numbers of the more unfortunate
+abandoned their farms in despair and sought employment elsewhere, mostly
+in manufacturing centres and the large eastern cities. Much of the money
+and wealth of the land had flown to those points, thither logically,
+they followed, to enter the ranks of that vast army of competitors for
+the crumbs that might fall from the table of an already glutted labor
+mart; to learn by bitter experience how cruelly the system of
+competition in all kinds of business can grind the helpless poor; to
+learn, through years of suffering, the real meaning of competition, that
+so long as it rules over commercial and industrial systems, the rich
+must grow richer and fewer in number, while the poor must grow poorer,
+and more and more numerous; to apprehend, slowly and painfully, that by
+coming from farm to city they had still farther congested the already
+overstocked labor market, thereby adding fierceness to the competition,
+insuring an increase in the purchasing power of the dollars of those who
+held the labor market, while they correspondingly decreased the
+possibilities for earning the dollars they must have in order to live;
+to perceive dimly in their desperation, that congestion of the labor
+market speedily affected all markets; that an overstocked labor market
+always meant a decrease of wages, which in turn, caused a corresponding
+shrinkage in the number of purchasers for all salable goods in the
+general market, followed by increased panic and stringency in the money
+market; which speedily rolled up another disaster, sweeping in turn,
+additional thousands into the ranks of the unemployed; demonstrating,
+finally, that a repetition of these evils is inevitable; that
+competition in its last analysis, means the complete destruction of all
+business.
+
+"As my father came to understand the full significance of this
+deplorable situation, involving and distressing his own brothers and
+sisters, his noble nature was grieved and shocked. He made haste to
+place his people in a condition of financial independence. How happy and
+grateful they were! And my father rejoiced with us that he was able to
+offer such timely assistance. He then announced to us his determination
+to devote the remainder of his life, and so much of his fortune as might
+be necessary, to the solution of the problem of how best to overcome the
+blighting evils of the competitive system. After much thought, long
+research and hard study, he decided to commence with the land as the
+necessary basis of all progress; with the farm as the rational
+progressive unit; with improved farm methods on co-operative lines, as
+the lever by which to restore the control of the land to the farmers,
+and to lift them and their sons and daughters from the class of ignorant
+dependents, to a class of cultured independents, which should be well
+worthy of serving as a model in the race of progress, for all the other
+classes. In his efforts to modify, correct, and reform social and
+business methods, he proposed to use the strong and kindly arms of
+Co-operation in fighting the evils of Competition, or its
+representative, the pitiless competitive system. He reasoned that all
+forms of government are but the result of co-operative effort. Both
+experience and observation had taught him that the measure of excellence
+of any government is the measure of its perfection in co-operation.
+Therefore it logically follows, that the more perfect the co-operation
+achieved by the administration of any form of government, the greater
+the degree of justice and equality attained in the distribution of
+benefits to all of the governed."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+THE REAPING OF THE DEATH ANGEL.
+
+
+"Towards the close of the summer of 1895, my father placed me in the
+preparatory department of Vassar College, where I made rapid progress. I
+began to appreciate the superior wisdom of the methods of teaching which
+my parents had so systematically carried out for my improvement. Thanks
+to their efforts, I held the key to all of the sciences, history and
+literature, prose and poetry! All of their principal words or terms with
+their definitions, were familiar friends to me; while all new facts
+regarding their various subdivisions, auxiliaries, etc., and the
+relations existing between them as such, were matters of absorbing
+interest to me; so much so, that I soon became master of the subject I
+was studying, very often proving a puzzling surprise to my teachers. At
+the age of twelve I entered the regular course and graduated from
+college just as I was entering my eighteenth year, being by four years
+the youngest member of a graduating class of one hundred girls.
+
+"Some months after my fourteenth birthday, my darling mother was taken
+from me in the mortal form, very suddenly and most unexpectedly. My
+father was away from home on a long trip to Alaska. I was at Vassar. My
+mother was with a congenial party of friends at a favorite seaside
+resort. One day while bathing, one lady of the party swam too far out,
+was taken with a cramp and shrieked for help. My mother, who was
+nearest, being an excellent swimmer, courageously went to her
+assistance. Unfortunately, the tide was running full and strong and was
+against my mother in her heroic struggle to save her friend. Alas!
+before aid could reach them both sank beneath the waves and were lost.
+My noble mother had generously sacrificed her earthly existence in her
+brave effort to save the life of another! This was my first experience
+of the grief and desolation that follows the reaping of the Death Angel.
+In my youth, my half-dazed condition, I could neither realize nor
+understand what later became so plain to me; that to die is to live
+again. That death, so-called, is but the change from one form of life to
+another, which is still higher in the scale of progress. Nor could I
+then realize, that for the purpose of bringing to me a consciousness of
+the possibilities of my spiritual being; under the ministrations of the
+angel of compensation, out of the very depths of the gulf of bereavement
+and sadness through which I was passing, there was coming to me the
+precious gift of a priceless mediumship, the marvelous key! the
+all-potent 'open sesame' with which to unlock the gates between the two
+worlds and reunite the separated loved ones on either side.
+
+"At that time Mrs. Bainbridge, then but recently widowed, was in charge
+of the old home here. She was an excellent medium who had often proved
+herself worthy of my mother's entire confidence. Acting under the
+guidance of my arisen mother, she at once, without hesitation, took
+charge of all business arrangements, especially those of preparing for
+the cremation of my mother's body, in accordance with her often
+expressed wish. She telegraphed the sad news to my father in Alaska,
+asking for instructions. He replied at once that the body must be
+cremated, as my mother had directed in her will. He would return as soon
+as possible, but at the best he could not hope to arrive in less than
+two months. In the meantime, Mrs. Bainbridge was authorized to take
+entire charge of 'Fern,' and of his business affairs that needed
+attention, until he came.
+
+"I came home from college, sorely grieved and shocked at the awful
+suddenness of my mother's transition, but through the mediumship of Mrs.
+Bainbridge, my mother, having her in a deep trance, was soon able to
+comfort me; to make me realize that she was not dead, but still near me
+with all a mother's love and tender care. From time to time she directed
+Mrs. Bainbridge how to manage the pressing business that came up. She
+told me that she had long known that I was endowed with wonderful
+mediumistic power, which must now be fully developed for her sake, as a
+necessary and natural channel of communication so desirable to her,
+which she should prize very highly. Also as a source of comfort for
+myself and my father, especially as a joyful surprise for him when he
+came home. Therefore it was decided between us that I was to sit one
+hour each day with Mrs. Bainbridge for development. My mother seemed to
+feel sure that I would make an excellent trumpet medium, and encouraged
+me by predicting my speedy development as such. Strangely enough, so it
+proved. My progress was rapid. In two weeks time my mother could speak
+to me through the trumpet without difficulty and much to my delight. I
+began to appreciate the great value of my wonderful gift and to
+understand what it meant. Our dear family circle, which in my despair I
+had thought broken forever, was now reunited. Father, mother, daughter!
+just us three as of yore. And--the wonder of it--I, the youngest, the
+weakest and the least wise of the trio, was the instrument! When I
+thought of the possibilities, of the joy and consolation it would bring
+to my father and mother, my heart swelled with gratitude and
+thankfulness that this mighty power had come to me. The power to destroy
+the dread of death; to demonstrate the continuity of life; to prove that
+the binding love of family ties, kindred, and cherished friends still
+shone with untarnished lustre beyond the shadows of the silent grave.
+How beautiful, how wonderful, how glorious it was! And with this power
+came the solemn charge that I was to cherish it with care and keep it
+pure and holy. Yes, I resolved that I would do this conscientiously. It
+should be my highest ambition to ever use my mediumship with my best and
+most unselfish aspirations, to keep it apart from the grosser things of
+life, to dedicate it to good and to good alone. And thus it was that my
+mediumship continued to develop and grow in perfection. My mother could
+talk with me as often as she wished and as long at each sitting as she
+desired. I was no longer alone or despondent, my darling mother still
+could be, and was really, my mentor, friend, parent, teacher and
+spiritual guide. I forgot to mourn or to feel lonely, though I longed
+for my father's homecoming that we might share this new found joy. So
+interested was I and so occupied, that the two months quickly passed and
+my dear father reached his home in safety. I had arranged for a quiet
+evening with him alone. When my mother, through the trumpet, joined in
+the conversation and welcomed him with loving words of endearment, so
+familiar in the greetings of other days, he was almost overcome by the
+flood of ecstatic emotions that moved and thrilled him as he began to
+appreciate the significance of such a miraculous surprise. His heart was
+glowing and his entire being permeated with this great wave of
+happiness. His face was radiant with joy and beamed with fatherly
+affection and pride as he pressed me to his heart again and again,
+thanking me for my thoughtful spiritual work in the development of my
+wonderful gift, which, for his consolation, I had striven so
+unselfishly, so ardently and so earnestly to attain, while facing alone
+the one great crisis of my young life. Still holding me in his arms, he
+looked into my eyes long and fondly, almost adoringly, as he said: 'With
+such a daughter, whose loving heart and purity of soul has won for her
+the marvellous power to reunite our broken family circle, I am indeed
+the most fortunate of all men.' Then in a moment I perceived that I was
+no longer a child, I was a woman; that henceforth my father would think
+of me as a woman--still his loving daughter--but also his equal, his
+confidant, his trusted friend, his adviser in times of need, his oracle,
+his medium of communication with the loved ones who dwelt in the world
+of spirit. How good and beautiful was life in the light of this new
+vista of possibilities and responsibilities for me! For the moment I
+seemed to be transported to some grand spiritual height, where as a
+responsive spiritual unit, I felt the throbbing of the limitless sea of
+environmental life surrounding me like a golden mist, on every hand.
+Every pulsation proclaimed my immortality as a part of that boundless
+sea; boundless, fathomless, unthinkably shoreless! of life,
+all-producing, all-containing! My soul no longer questioned. It was
+filled with a peace and joy that passeth the power of words to describe.
+
+"Thus inspired and encouraged for the future, I was ready and eager to
+take up again the active duties of life. In resuming my collegiate
+studies, it was agreed between my father and mother and myself, that I
+should come home from Vassar every Friday evening, returning by the
+early train Monday morning, the intervening time to be sacredly devoted
+to our trumpet family circles. Oh, Mr. Flagg! How happy we were then!
+For the next three years nothing was allowed to interfere with these
+delightful reunions, whose memories are associated with so many
+incidents that bound us three so closely with the silver cords of pure
+affection.
+
+"After leaving college, I accompanied my father in all of his
+journeyings after new data in economics and agriculture. For this
+purpose we spent the winter of 1902-3, travelling in France, Italy,
+Germany and England, returning to America in April, 1903."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+THE MARTINA MINE.
+
+
+"Early in June of the same year, Dewitt C. Dunbar discovered a new lead
+in the Martina mine which proved to be of such marvelous size and
+richness, that my father's personal inspection was demanded at the
+earliest possible moment, to decide on the best methods of pushing
+forward the new work, and also to determine what part of the old work
+should be continued. The numerous letters and telegrams from Mr. Dunbar,
+all urging the utmost haste on my father's part, gave him but little
+time to consider the results of such a long journey, or to make the
+proper preparations for it. It was evident that Mr. Dunbar must be in a
+state of intense excitement. In order to catch the next steamer from San
+Francisco, father left a number of important items of business for me to
+transact. I wished very much to go with him but all the circumstances
+seemed to conspire against me. Father promised to return at the earliest
+possible moment, meanwhile he was to send me a dispatch announcing his
+safe arrival in Alaska. By the end of July, messages, and later, letters
+began to reach me announcing the wonderful output of gold from the new
+lead. So rich was the ore that for a time it was thought best to abandon
+all work in the old mine. I could see very plainly from his letters that
+the fever of Mr. Dunbar's excitement and enthusiasm had also claimed my
+father as a victim. I then foresaw that his stay in Alaska would be
+prolonged far beyond my expectations or his own. I began to feel very
+uneasy and to wish most fervently that I had insisted on going with him.
+I resolved in future to keep him company wherever he journeyed.
+Meanwhile the yield of gold from the new lead continued to increase. The
+value of the Martina rose like magic; offers to purchase at fabulous
+prices came pouring in. Mr. Dunbar would not accept, and decided, then
+and there, to remain another ten years as manager and resident
+superintendent of the mine. That settled the question. After that, my
+father announced that the mine was not for sale at any price. In writing
+to me concerning the matter, he says:
+
+
+     "'My Dear Fern: * * * I at that time decided that my interest in
+     the mine which I had named for your mother, and which had proven
+     the luckiest and richest in Alaska, should pass to you as it came
+     to me, entirely unencumbered. So rest assured, my daughter, so
+     long as Dewitt C. Dunbar is able and willing to manage the mine,
+     both my interests and yours are in safe hands; in skill, honesty
+     and ability he is one of the grandest men I have ever known; he is
+     a treasure. You can trust him implicitly!'
+
+
+"As I had anticipated, it was December before my father could leave
+Alaska. In a letter dated Dec. 5, to which I shall again refer, he says:
+
+
+     "'I have planned to leave here on a steamer that sails on the tenth
+     of this month. I fear the voyage may prove a rough one. I have a
+     foolish dread of it, which is quite unusual for me. I am oppressed
+     by an uneasy feeling which I strive in vain to shake off. However,
+     I have taken good care to make such arrangements with Mr. Dunbar as
+     will cover all possible contingencies. This is to be my last trip.'
+
+
+"On the twelfth of December I received a message from Mr. Dunbar,
+stating that Fennimore Fenwick had sailed on the tenth as he had
+planned; that he was well and strong, and would wire me as soon as he
+reached San Francisco. This cheering message gave me new courage, I
+began to count the days and to look forward more hopefully. I decided,
+although it was so late in the season, to wait here in the cottage until
+my father came. When Mrs. Bainbridge left to open our house in
+Washington, I had intended to follow her a few days before Christmas,
+but for some unexplained reason, I could not make up my mind to leave
+the cottage. After the message came the question was settled--I was to
+remain here."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+SPIRIT AND MORTAL.--FATHER AND DAUGHTER.
+
+
+"At this point, Mr. Flagg, I wish you to carefully note the significance
+of the strange event which soon followed. Christmas Eve, 1903, found me
+here alone, seated at my desk, alternately reading, musing and writing.
+All day a terrific snow storm had been raging, at nightfall it continued
+with increased severity. I could hear the fierce gale shriek as it
+lashed the tree tops furiously. I shuddered when I thought what danger
+such a gale might mean to the good steamer, bearing my father homeward
+bound across the rough, icy waters of that far off wintry sea; that
+yawning, terrible, treacherous sea!
+
+"During the afternoon I had been nervous and lonely. As a solace, I had
+a long talk from my mother through the trumpet, which cheered and
+comforted me greatly, especially her confident promise that I should
+hear from papa even sooner than I had hoped. Over this I was musing when
+a strange thing happened. I was startled by the low tones of a familiar
+voice from the trumpet. Almost frozen with fear, I heard: 'Do not be
+frightened, my darling; I am your father, Fennimore Fenwick, who loves
+you, if possible, more than ever. A frightful storm wrecked the steamer
+and released me from my body. Nearly all of the passengers and crew
+perished with me. A few still survive; they are in a single open boat,
+tossing helplessly in the awful surge of that wild waste of water,
+possibly they may yet be saved. My dear wife, Martina, your own
+beautiful mother, was watching and waiting for me at the scene of the
+wreck. Hers the beautiful arms that welcomed me as I was born into the
+new life of the spirit. How glorious it was that she, so dear to me,
+could be there. In the radiance and splendor of all her spiritual
+loveliness, I was charmed almost to the point of forgetfulness. I seemed
+to be floating on the bosom of a sea of golden mist, my spirit filled
+with a measureless contentment. Presently I awoke to a vivid
+consciousness of my new life. In the light of the loving eyes of my
+peerless Martina, I was soon made to realize that I had just passed
+painlessly from life mortal to life spiritual. I perceived that time and
+space no longer barred the flight of my freed spirit. Hand in hand we
+came; almost before I knew it we were here. Thanks to your mediumship,
+and to this trumpet, I could come and speak to you so soon. Yes, my dear
+child, we three, a loving trio, are still united just as of yore. I
+shall be permitted to help you, from this side of life, to carry out and
+complete my plans and purposes regarding improved modes of farm life. I
+wrote you from Alaska on the fifth of this month, announcing my
+intention of sailing on the tenth; that letter came by a Victoria
+steamer and will soon reach you. At that time I was weighed down by a
+premonition of some impending disaster. So seriously was I impressed,
+that I at once made arrangements with Dewitt C. Dunbar, in case of my
+death, to continue to operate the mine in partnership with you on the
+terms now in force, and this he was perfectly willing to do. By the
+terms of my will, now in the hands of my attorneys at Washington, you
+are at this moment, sole heir to my large fortune. As you know, I long
+ago placed my brothers and sisters beyond the reach of want. Well do I
+know, my dear girl, that I can trust you perfectly, to carry forward my
+work.'
+
+"As his voice ceased to vibrate in the trumpet, I sprang to my feet
+with outstretched and imploring hands: 'Father!' I cried, 'How can I do
+this work alone? I am yet but a child, with a very limited business
+experience to fit me for this great responsibility.' He at once replied:
+'Fear not, my child. Faithful, capable, and trustworthy help shall be
+brought to you. At all times I shall be near, to advise, and to guard
+you and your interests. Go forward bravely in the conscious power of
+your own potential spirit, dominant and dauntless. Armed with the
+majesty and mystery of your mediumship, all obstacles shall yield, and
+naught shall prevail over you!' This prophetic command, so thrilling, so
+imperative, touched and stirred my inner self; my soul responded to the
+appeal. In one brief moment I regained my self control; was calm, could
+think clearly and reason logically.
+
+"At intervals throughout the night I continued to consult with my
+parents. My father advised me to write at once, announcing his death,
+and requesting Mr. Dunbar to fix a time at which he could meet me in San
+Francisco, for a conference. This I did at the earliest practicable
+moment."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.
+
+
+At this point in her story, Fern Fenwick said: "Mr. Flagg, I now realize
+the wonderful prescience of my father's promise of abundant and timely
+help, especially when I consider your life work, and the masterly way
+you have equipped yourself for it, and finally, by the mysterious manner
+in which we were brought together. Is it not almost like a miracle?"
+
+"Really, Miss Fenwick, I am lost in amazement! It seems to me that I
+must be dreaming! The situation is so entirely outside of my experience,
+so unthinkably strange to me, that I doubt my ability to discuss it
+intelligently. Your story is the most marvelous of anything I have ever
+heard. I feel quite sure that it must be strictly true, yet I can
+scarcely comprehend it. A host of questions arise in my mind, which I
+wish to ask, if I may be permitted. When you heard the voice from the
+trumpet, how could you feel so sure it was your father speaking? That he
+had been swallowed up by the sea? That the shipwreck had really
+occurred?"
+
+"I do not wonder at your questions, Mr. Flagg," said Fern Fenwick, "I
+will gladly answer as best I can. Without considering or discussing the
+fact that the crucial test of identity was disclosed by almost every
+word which my father uttered, yet I could not for a moment doubt his
+presence. I knew he was there. I recognized every intonation of the
+voice. I felt the identity of his spiritual personality, radiant with
+the silent force of his love for me, quite as plainly as though at that
+moment his physical personality had entered the room. My experience
+after my mother's transition, the development of my mediumship, and my
+increased sensitiveness to the presence of spiritual entities, no doubt
+aided me greatly. At that time I perceived and recognized without
+question, that life in the physical is but the expression of the spirit,
+or Ego; that after the passing of the physical, the Ego inherits and
+possesses immortality as a conscious individual entity, clothed with a
+spiritual body, perfectly fitted for its continued existence in the
+realms of the world of spirit; that, through the action of a natural
+law, the law of mediumship, such spirits can and do, come to and
+communicate with their friends and loved ones in earth life. All these
+things, I knew my father understood clearly, therefore I was prepared to
+accept the verity of his spiritual presence as readily as I would any
+other phenomenon of nature. In conclusion, I may as well tell you at
+this point, that the letter referred to by father as having been written
+by him in Alaska on December fifth, together with my conference in San
+Francisco, some months later, with Dewitt C. Dunbar; the arrival in port
+at that time of a China steamer, bringing the mate and four sailors as
+sole survivors from the wreck of the ill-fated steamer, and my interview
+with them, all confirmed, in every particular, the truth of the
+statements concerning the matter, which were made by my spirit father,
+just after his passage through the gateway of death from life mortal to
+life spiritual. Can I add anything more convincing?"
+
+"Pardon me, Miss Fenwick! I believe what you have told me is absolutely
+true. I can perceive and appreciate its wonderful significance only in
+part. I understand now clearly why it was necessary for me to know so
+much of the story of your life and that of your noble father. I have
+listened to your story with almost breathless interest, with all I am
+profoundly impressed. A new world is opening to me. My mental and
+spiritual horizon has been extended beyond the power of words to
+express. Life has a thousand new meanings: In them I read the importance
+and responsibility of the great work we are about to undertake. I wait
+with increased interest for my personal interview with your father. Now
+that I have heard so much of him, I bow with added reverence to his
+great and noble love for humanity which prompted, and his wonderful
+genius which conceived and planned the work so generously. I am proud
+and thankful that I have been chosen as an instrument deemed capable and
+worthy of helping to carry it forward.
+
+"As to things spiritual, pertaining to a life beyond the grave, I am
+intensely interested and eager to know more. May I hope, Miss Fenwick,
+that you will kindly consent to become my teacher in this new school of
+wonderful phenomena and spiritual law? I too, am alone in the world; my
+father and mother have both passed the bitter flood of the dark river of
+death. They too, like your parents, must now be living in the world of
+spirit as conscious, loving father and mother, with hearts filled with a
+living, glowing affection that can and will respond to my own. Can it be
+possible that I am to feel and know this by direct communication with
+them?"
+
+"I shall be delighted, Mr. Flagg, to help you in this matter in any way
+that I can. Your desire for a direct communication from your parents is
+perfectly natural and right and, I doubt not, will be fully gratified in
+a few days.
+
+"In this connection, let me ask: Have you ever had a seance with a
+medium? Do you know anything about the laws that control and govern
+mediumship? Have you been interested to any extent in reading the
+all-comprehensive philosophy which mediumship demonstrates?"
+
+"I am very glad, Miss Fenwick, that you have put those questions. I
+desire to state briefly and frankly my attitude, up to this time,
+towards mediumship and the philosophy and phenomena of spiritual
+manifestations generally: I believe I was a born agnostic. All my life I
+have been skeptical as to the verity of a life beyond the grave. In this
+I have differed widely from my people, a large majority of whom have
+been zealous Presbyterians for at least five generations, while I have
+followed Voltaire and Ingersoll. In the ranks of their following I have
+been content to cry: 'I don't know! I can wait! One world at a time is
+enough for me!' As to mediumship, or any manifestations of it, I know
+almost nothing. The few mediums I have met accidentally, have
+unfortunately failed to impress me favorably. All that I have heard or
+read of them has had a strong tendency to prejudice me against them and
+the philosophy they taught. Therefore, until my visit to this cottage, I
+have never been at all interested in the matter. I now perceive that in
+studying the great problem of life, and how best to learn most about it,
+I have utterly ignored one of the most important sources of both
+information and inspiration. My prejudice and indifference have
+vanished. I wonder at myself, at my readiness to accept your point of
+view regarding your most marvelous mediumship and its wonderful
+manifestations; at my feverish interest and anxiety to learn all I can
+about things spiritual at the earliest possible moment; at my intense
+longing for the complete verification of all the beautiful propositions
+relating to spiritual life which you have stated so eloquently and so
+convincingly; but most of all do I wonder and am amazed that these
+things are not miracles; that they occur through the action of natural
+law, which, if true, makes it possible--nay probable--that mediumship
+and its manifestations are as old as life itself. This, Miss Fenwick,
+defines my position as clearly as I can state it. Do you think I am
+likely to prove a pupil worthy of his teacher?"
+
+"I most assuredly do, Mr. Flagg," said Fern. "I think you are now
+prepared for the promised interview with my father. However, before he
+joins us, I wish to say by way of explanation, that when I am here
+alone, he can use the trumpet with ease at any moment and in any kind of
+light, but in the presence of strangers, different conditions are
+required. We shall at first be obliged to use another kind of light. By
+the aid of this light you can plainly see the trumpet, supported
+horizontally in the air just over his chair, but you will be unable to
+discern even the faintest outline of the spiritual form holding it; as
+in using the trumpet, the vital force of both the manifesting spirit and
+the medium is concentrated in the trumpet in the effort of speaking. Sit
+perfectly quiet for a moment; I will close the windows and prepare the
+room."
+
+A few touches on the small keyboard in her desk, and lo the heavy double
+curtains swiftly and silently unrolled and covered the windows. At the
+same moment, the beautifully ornamented, dome shaped center of the lofty
+ceiling began to glow with a constellation of soft, phosphorescent
+lights, filling the room with a radiance as mild and silvery as
+moonlight, and yet even more soothing to the nerves. Presently the air
+was vibrant with the low, sweet strains of distant music, soft and slow
+and of such exquisite harmony that it seemed a rare combination of all
+that was inspiring, charming and beautiful in the variations of time,
+sound and rythm. The combined effect of the light and the music on
+Fillmore Flagg was electrical. Every nerve was thrilled with rapture.
+He was completely absorbed. As the music ceased he turned with a start
+to look for the trumpet. As he looked, it slowly rose from the chair and
+there came from it the clear tones of a manly voice, full of sweetness
+and power. He heard these words: "Fern, my daughter, will you tell this
+gentleman who I am?"
+
+"My dear father," said Fern, "How glad I am that you have joined us! Mr.
+Flagg, this is my father, Fennimore Fenwick, of whom I have told you so
+much. Father, this is Mr. Fillmore Flagg, who, as you already know, has
+promised to devote himself to our work."
+
+As the trumpet slowly moved nearer, Mr. Fenwick said: "Mr. Flagg, as the
+father of Fern Fenwick, I extend to you a cordial greeting and a most
+hearty welcome to Fairy Fern Cottage. I trust this is but the
+commencement of a long and uninterrupted acquaintance, which may soon
+ripen into a true friendship, that shall bring much pleasure and profit
+to both. I am exceedingly well pleased with your advanced ideas on the
+subject of co-operative farming as the proper cure for the evils that
+now make farm life so miserable and so unsatisfactory. I wish
+particularly to congratulate you on the thoroughly systematic and
+successful methods you have adopted to it yourself so well for this
+peculiar work.
+
+"Now my young friend, one moment to another matter which is likely to
+prove of great interest to you. I find your parents in spirit life. I
+met them since you came to the cottage. They approve of your chosen life
+work. They are very proud of you, their beloved son and only child. They
+bid me give you a message of love with the assurance that they will
+speak to you through this trumpet very soon."
+
+"Mr. Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "I thank you for the encouragement
+of your kindly greeting and for the many pleasant things you have said
+of me and my work. In the future I shall strive conscientiously to merit
+your praise, and hope to earn your lasting friendship. As to the glad
+tidings from my parents in spirit life, I am rejoiced. In my heart the
+torch of hope is lighted; its pure flame is fast burning away the
+barriers of the belief I have so long entertained, that 'Death ends
+all,' also of the equally depressing creed of my Presbyterian people,
+who have so long taught and thought that 'The dead know not anything;'
+that my parents, with that vast army of souls, having passed the portals
+of the tomb, are now lost in the oblivion of that long unconscious,
+dreamless slumber, which stretches from the new made grave to The Day of
+Judgment. Hence, the message of love from my parents, with the assurance
+that they will speak to me so soon, has made me very happy. I am content
+to wait patiently for such further messages as opportunity may bring to
+me. I am ready and eager, Mr. Fenwick, to hear your plans. Please
+proceed."
+
+"Very well," said Fennimore Fenwick. "Fern, my daughter, you are to
+remain at your desk with pencil and note book, prepared to take down
+what I have to say."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+THE ETHICS OF PLANETARY EVOLUTION.
+
+
+"In order to plan this work wisely, and to discuss it understandingly,
+it will be necessary at the beginning to go back to first principles, to
+try to discover the real object and purpose of human life on this
+planet. In searching along the pathway of countless ages in our planet's
+history, we discover a continuous upward movement in the progression of
+the manifestations of life; from the mineral to the vegetable; from the
+vegetable to the animal; from the animal to man. Man representing the
+apex of progress in the constantly ascending spiral of the evolution of
+life from the birth of the planet to the present time. Therefore, both
+spirit and mortal, we are all children of the planet, chained to its
+destiny, all alike working factors in the achievement of its purpose so
+mighty. Through the planet, its solar system, and the system of systems
+in a long line of an infinite series, far beyond the power of
+computation, we are also the children of the Great Oversoul, the Source
+and Center of all life!
+
+"Human life, then, is the flower and fruit of the planet--the highest
+combined expression of its life--each life a planetary seed, a
+concentrated possibility of all expressions of planet life. Perhaps the
+most convincing and beautiful illustration of the truth of this vital
+and all important proposition is, that the reproductive cells of man in
+his highest state of development, multiply by fission, or self-division
+into halves, as did the primal sperm of protoplasm at the very beginning
+of vegetable and animal life. This great philogenetic vine with its
+myriads of branching arms, reaches in an unbroken line from the lowest
+to the highest forms of life; all alike are fruit of this vine. This
+offers indisputable evidence of the common brotherhood of humanity! the
+motherhood of the planet! the fatherhood of the Great Oversoul!
+
+"From these premises we may safely conclude that the object and purpose
+of this planet is the evolution of human beings, their continued growth
+and development, until the state of perfection for the entire race is
+reached. With this comes the complete achievement of the purpose of the
+existence of the planet. Hence, we perceive that human life is the most
+precious production of the planet. Henceforth its energies are to flow
+towards the perfecting of the human race.
+
+"In the great, white light of a higher understanding of these basic and
+vital truths, let us strive to make conditions for the protection of ALL
+human life. The task becomes less difficult as we more readily
+comprehend and appreciate the magnitude of the thought, that through the
+planet, this sacred life is the immortal and enduring expression of the
+Eternal Spirit. Viewed in this light, we apprehend clearly that all
+acts, by society or individuals, which tend to protect, promote and
+purify this life, are good, right and holy, and in their doing, become
+the highest and best expression of a sacred religious duty. On the
+contrary, all acts of society or individuals, which tend to destroy,
+injure, poison or sully this sacred life, or to bar its ordained
+progress are, in themselves, unholy, wrong, criminal and cruel, and in
+commission, become the greatest and most unpardonable of all sins.
+
+"All this becomes more apparent, when we consider that the sum of the
+pleasant sensations of the individual, and the happifying emotions which
+flow from them, constitutes the sum of human happiness. All conditions
+of life which promote right living, ethical culture and moral growth,
+nourish and call forth emotions of truth and honesty, pure pleasure,
+adoration, worship, hope, affection, love and all the higher and nobler
+characteristics, build up life and increase its capacity for happiness.
+Through the action of an equally inexorable and unswerving law, the
+misery and crime which poverty breeds, with its bitterness of hate,
+grief and despair, and all the train of other evil emotions engendered
+thereby, are poisonous in their nature; they tear down and destroy life.
+Therefore that social and industrial system which affords most
+abundantly, and for all of the people, conditions that are
+life-promoting and poverty-banishing, is logically the nearest just and
+right, because it is the nearest in harmony with natural law, and the
+object and purpose of human life.
+
+"Society as a whole, like a chain with defective links, is no stronger
+socially, morally, industrially, or politically, than its weakest unit.
+Hence it becomes the self interest of every individual member to
+endeavor unselfishly to build up and strengthen the weaker units in
+every possible way.
+
+"These propositions furnish the only sound basis for a perfect system of
+political economy--a system which shall afford the greatest amount of
+good or happiness to all the people. In considering the clearness and
+startling significance of these truths, we discover the cruel, criminal
+wrong of any system of competition, based on the old barbaric law of the
+survival of the fittest, which in its application means the pleasure and
+happiness of the few at the expense of the toil, pain and misery of the
+many. In this connection we note that man, in his evolutionary progress,
+has reached a point where, being mentally and spiritually awakened to a
+knowledge of the higher purposes of life, he perceives the true effect
+of environmental conditions, with their good and evil tendencies. He
+also perceives the cause and the cure. Armed with the talisman of this
+knowledge, he boldly enters the field of causation and thenceforward
+becomes a self-directing factor in his own evolution. At this important
+stage, he clearly comprehends, that the injury of one is the concern of
+all; that the perfection of all becomes the highest interest of each;
+that the unprogressive law of the survival of the fittest, is nullified
+and replaced by the higher law of unselfishness of the individual for
+the advancement of the race; that the dual nature of man, physical and
+spiritual, must be considered as inseparable, when dealing with the
+practical questions of life; that physical life, as the primary school
+of existence, is ephemeral, while the spiritual is the permanent and
+enduring; that, consequently, the path of progress for the human soul,
+lies almost entirely in the realms of the spiritual; that a life on the
+physical plane, devoted solely to selfishness, dwarfs and chokes the
+spiritual nature, and becomes a serious bar to unfoldment and progress
+on the spiritual plane of existence: Finally, that, like the pent up
+energies of some mighty volcano, the irresistible upward thrust of
+nature's unfoldment, ever producing and disclosing higher expressions of
+life, is to find its present outlet through these channels, by the wise
+use of methods in harmony with the principles stated."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN SOCIAL EVOLUTION.
+
+
+"From the thorough understanding and appreciation of these principles,
+by the workers on your model co-operative farm, must come the necessary
+zeal, the cementing enthusiasm of a mighty purpose which, with ever
+increasing volume, shall urge them forward to the goal of complete
+success. As one of the means to insure this success, we must strive to
+introduce a new era for agriculture, in which co-operative working shall
+be supplemented and reinforced by co-operative thinking. As applied to
+farm work, this is a new and untried field which promises grand results.
+
+"In all kinds of productive labor, muscular effort is a mental
+demonstration! The keener the mentality controlling the muscles, the
+more satisfactory the work accomplished. The more interested and the
+healthier and happier the laborer is in his work, the easier it becomes
+for him to produce superior results. For centuries, farm work has been
+considered the natural avocation of the ignorant and the illiterate!
+Strange as it may appear, it seems to have been generally conceded that
+the typical clodhopper was the ordained farmer! That this perverted idea
+regarding the requirements of a tiller of the soil, should have
+maintained its existence for so many ages, is a matter of profound
+astonishment to every intelligent thinker!"
+
+"Pardon me, Mr. Fenwick," said Fillmore Flagg, "if at this time I quote
+a case in point from my own state. As late as the year 1897, a Bishop
+Withington, of Nebraska, speaking of farmers' sons who were struggling
+for an education, says of them:
+
+"'The farmers' sons--a great many of them--who have absolutely no
+ability to rise, get a taste of education and follow it up. They will
+never amount to anything--that is, many of them--and they become
+dissatisfied to follow in the walk of life that God intended they
+should, and drift into cities. It is the over-education of those who are
+not qualified to receive it that fills our cities, while the farms lie
+idle.'
+
+"This, Mr. Fenwick, is but a sample of many like expressions from the
+lips of public men, showing the stigma and low estimate which is placed
+on farmers as a class, by clerical, professional and commercial people.
+When we consider that farming people form a large majority of the
+citizens of our republic, a republic whose constitution guarantees equal
+rights for all; whose chief corner stone from the beginning, has been
+its admirable system of free education in its public schools; the
+manifest endeavor of the Bishop and his class, to consign the tillers of
+the soil to a caste of low order, and to argue that education is for the
+few and not for the farmer, indicates something radically wrong in our
+social system that augurs ill for the future of our republic. That the
+dissatisfaction is widespread and serious, is manifest to all thinkers
+and observers. To discover the cause and cure, and to speedily apply the
+remedy for this growing discontent, becomes an imperative duty for all
+patriotic people. In my experience, the following are some of the most
+prolific causes:
+
+"The isolation and loneliness of the small farm.
+
+"The long hours of tedious, monotonous toil for both man and woman.
+
+"The constantly increasing competition of large farms, armed with
+capital and expensive machinery, which tends to reduce the price of farm
+products.
+
+"The want of proper society, healthful amusements, books, and many other
+necessary educational facilities.
+
+"The discouraging meagerness of the financial returns for a year of such
+constant toil.
+
+"These things all tend to destroy the farmer's love for, and pride in,
+his occupation, until farm work becomes a repulsive drudgery, and he
+flies to the city for a more congenial employment. Is it then, under the
+circumstances, any wonder that the farmers' sons should become
+dissatisfied with the occupation of their birth? That in company with
+their sisters and sweethearts they should be determined, at all hazards,
+to escape from the evils of what Bishop Withington terms a
+'God-ordained' class of hewers of wood, drawers of water, and tillers of
+the soil, a class which dooms them and their children to a future of
+hopeless toil?
+
+"Agriculture forms the basis and support of our national, industrial and
+commercial success. Therefore it is imperative that agricultural
+pursuits be made to become the most noble and pleasing of all
+occupations. How can this be accomplished?
+
+"Surely, co-operative farming, with its improved conditions and methods,
+is the remedy indicated!"
+
+"Yes, Mr. Flagg," said Fennimore Fenwick, "Co-operative farming is the
+partial remedy which shall start the healing process, and lead to the
+discovery of a perfect cure. You have ably stated the evils which make
+living on small farms so unsatisfactory. You have also made an excellent
+argument for our work from the text Bishop Withington has so blindly
+and unthinkingly furnished. It is quite evident that neither he nor his
+class, have the least conception of the true cause of the discontent
+they so deeply deplore. It is also equally clear that with all the
+advantages of superior conditions, with the observation and education of
+a lifetime, they have so far, utterly failed to understand or appreciate
+the real object and purpose of human life. They are sorely in need of an
+object lesson which we must furnish.
+
+"In efforts to slake a natural thirst for knowledge, the brightest
+minds, the most profound thinkers of the past ten centuries, at the end
+of lives devoted to study, have declared that the vast domain of
+knowledge still remained practically an unexplored field. This domain is
+for coming generations to conquer and possess. It invites the efforts of
+millions of co-operative thinkers, born and trained for the task. Hence,
+to me, it is as clear as the noonday sun that the embodiment of more
+mind by our agricultural people, is a matter of imperative necessity.
+They should have the leisure and the opportunity to become familiar with
+all the varied phenomena of nature, through the recorded observations
+that comprise the different sciences, which describe and explain all
+phases of surrounding life. Thus equipped, they will be able to discover
+that they are a living, working, part of nature, which defined, means
+the combined life of the planet; that they act upon all things about
+them and are in turn acted upon. A comprehension of these things can
+come only to the cultivated mind, and the richer its store of facts, the
+more perfect its grasp and control of surrounding conditions. Therefore
+mind, as the expression of the soul and body of the dual individual on
+the physical plane of existence, is EVERYTHING! It controls and molds
+structure; the body; the people around. All history is but a detailed
+description of the action of mind.
+
+"The great minds are the dominant thinkers; they sway the multitude,
+mold public opinion, effect legislation and shape the nation. These
+dominant minds should come from the people of the soil, as best equipped
+to discover and proclaim the law of the planet's unfoldment, also best
+able to conceive and formulate the wise laws which should guide and
+govern its people. Hence the necessity for our farmers to become
+thinkers--dominant thinkers.
+
+"What are the best conditions for mind unfoldment?
+
+"As Professor Elmer Gates so wisely says, 'The human body is composed of
+myriads of living organisms--a co-operative colony of more or less
+intelligent cells--which respond to the control of the individual Ego
+through the action of the mind, and to the electrical conditions which
+flow from the emotions.' Hence the body is an important part of the
+thinking machine and, therefore, a perfect mind must absolutely be the
+highest expression of a perfect body. The perfect body needs to be well
+born. To be well born, is to demand conditions for a perfect motherhood,
+and the perfect unfoldment of both mother and child together.
+
+"Where can these conditions be found?
+
+"We find them best and most abundant in the rural districts, far from
+the turmoil and strife, the smoke and poisonous gases of the great city.
+Surrounded by fields and forests, in the pure air of a broad expanse of
+country, domed with the blue sky, and flooded with golden sunlight, on
+the soil of the farm, close to the fostering bosom of our planet
+mother, Earth. Therefore it must be the distinctive and well defined
+purpose of our co-operative farm to furnish and perfect these
+conditions, thus uniting in perfect harmony stirpiculture with
+agriculture, a union as poetical as it is practical. From these
+conditions must come a race of dominant thinkers, the exponents and
+champions of the real objects and purposes of human life.
+
+"With the coming of such a race, comes the beginning of the era of
+unselfishness, and the end of the present era of selfishness, the age of
+gold worship, where greed for gold blights and withers public and
+private conscience, dominates and corrupts all forms of society, and
+makes conditions which breed monopolies, caste, tramps, paupers, armies
+of idle men, strikes, discontent, starvation and revolution!
+
+"Verily, a perfect catalogue of the ways and means by which 'Man's
+inhumanity to man, makes countless millions mourn!' With the dawn of the
+unselfish era, comes the demonstration of how man's humanity to man can
+and will make countless millions rejoice!
+
+"In selecting the people who are to be the active, working members of
+our co-operative farm, it is a matter of the utmost importance that they
+should be chosen from a class of persons who are capable of thinking in
+harmony on religious and political questions, who are already in
+sympathy with progressive ideas and co-operative work, intelligently
+alive to its importance and to its advantages, capable of understanding
+and appreciating that it is not the sole purpose of the organization to
+make money but also to accomplish a multitude of things besides:
+
+"First and foremost, to ennoble the occupation of their birthright.
+
+"To make farming the most charming and healthful and most desirable of
+all vocations.
+
+"To make it so remunerative that a reserve fund can be accumulated,
+sufficiently large to enable its members to purchase the necessary land
+for an ever increasing series of co-operative farms, for their children
+and their children's children for generations yet to come.
+
+"To unite stirpiculture so closely with agriculture that a race of
+perfect children shall be the crowning glory of all the productions of
+the farm.
+
+"To afford ideal conditions for motherhood and childhood, that all
+children may be proudly welcomed to a world of loving hearts; that they
+may be well born, wisely and beautifully unfolded mentally, morally,
+spiritually and physically; that they may be skillfully taught how to
+work, to think, to reason, and to comprehend and appreciate the true
+purposes of life, consequently their duties as true men and
+women--self-poised and noble, a law unto themselves--capable and fully
+prepared to enter the walks of life as worthy and honored citizens of an
+ideal republic.
+
+"That it is to be the province of the farm, by the co-operative thinking
+of its workers, to develop and increase the fertility and productiveness
+of the valleys and plains to such an extent that the hills and mountains
+may be reclothed with beautiful forests of choice trees, of varieties
+most valued for lumber and timber; also great orchards of the choicest
+varieties of fruit and nut bearing trees, as a source of future pleasure
+and profit, at the same time preparing the way for a more complete
+control of climatic conditions. By the process of shading and protecting
+the slopes of both hill and mountain by these valuable forests, a
+magical change for the better is effected. Everywhere a soft, spongy
+carpet of fallen leaves, ever increasing in thickness, is spread out,
+moistening and enriching the soil and conserving the waters of the
+increased rainfall. A thousand living springs of pure, sparkling water
+make glad the plains and valleys. The evils of flood, erosion and drouth
+are checked; the climate made more congenial; the value of both hill and
+mountain, as a source of wealth, increased a thousand fold.
+
+"Aided by the organization of our co-operative association, which makes
+it possible to treat large tracts of land as a single farm, this great
+work can be easily and surely accomplished by the earnest and united
+efforts of a people who, surrounded by conditions of comfort and plenty,
+are in a suitable mood to plant what their children and coming
+generations may enjoy.
+
+"As an evidence of man's awakening consciousness of his power, by means
+of intelligent co-operation, to make conditions that shall protect him
+and his loved ones from the many calamities which have hitherto beset
+and overwhelmed human lives, we note the extraordinary work accomplished
+by the different classes of insurance companies, during the past fifty
+years. These companies are in fact large bodies of people, incorporated
+and working co-operatively and systematically together to protect
+themselves. The success which has followed their efforts in this
+direction has, for the thinker, a marked significance, pregnant with
+suggestions for the future. In the co-operative farm, organized and
+carried forward on lines in harmony with the principles and purposes
+before stated, this system of insurance, in its simplest, least
+expensive and most practical form, is to be carried to its fullest
+extent into all the departments of life. By its wise provisions for the
+care and protection of the weaker units, it insures its members against
+loss of employment or wages; against sickness, injury or accident;
+against poverty, hunger and crime. It insures to all, for themselves and
+their children, the perpetual right to occupy and till the soil, and
+thus to secure by short hours of pleasant, attractive labor, the
+generous return which can be obtained only by the most perfect system of
+scientific, co-operative farming, armed with abundant capital. In
+addition, it insures to them all the advantages of birth, health,
+education, society and amusement which money can buy for the wealthy:
+more leisure, more opportunities for mental, social, ethical and
+scientific self-culture. It also insures to the world at large an object
+lesson which shall demonstrate that the way is open for the poorest farm
+laborer to secure the same results by joining these progressive
+co-operative bodies.
+
+"In looking forward to the effect upon society which these combined
+farms may have, we must consider the numbers and strength of the
+opposing force which, on every hand, will rise up as a bar to progress.
+For years, gold, that concentrated essence of selfishness, has been
+recognized by its worshipers as the crowned king of society, whose
+crimson banners have borne these suggestive mottoes: 'I am not my
+brother's keeper! His injuries concern me not!' 'Every man for himself!'
+'It is well and good and right that the happiness of the few should be
+secured at the expense of the misery of the many, for is it not written,
+"The poor ye have always."?'
+
+"Fortunately, the law of compensation limits and finally crushes the
+reign of selfishness, causing it to perish by its own efforts to live,
+which in time destroy the substance upon which it feeds. Hence we may
+look hopefully to the future. With prophetic eyes we may behold the
+victorious march of these farm units by companies, battalions,
+regiments, brigades and divisions, like a vast army of peace, silently
+spreading, absorbing and conquering the old selfish system, grandly
+demonstrating the solidarity of human life, and the irresistible force
+of the combined efforts of thousands of bravely unselfish souls, working
+and thinking in unison, filled with enthusiasm kindled and inspired by
+the magnitude and grandeur of the true purposes of life.
+
+"Having thus broadly outlined the scope of the work, with its underlying
+principles, we may now give attention to the details of the plan for the
+initial farm. In this I would advise that the enterprise be made to
+adapt itself, so far as possible, to the present commercial and
+industrial conditions. That it be an incorporated stock company,
+limited. That its corporate life be for the longest possible term of
+years, with the right to renew. That it shall secure and control at
+least five thousand acres of land, to more readily enable it to dominate
+the township, as the lowest political unit of the republic; and also to
+give room for the planting of suitable forests. That its capital stock
+be limited to one thousand shares, to be divided equally among five
+hundred co-operators, composed of two hundred and fifty couples or
+families. That at the end of five years the stock be issued to the
+subscribers as paid up stock, by cash from the sinking fund, paid in for
+that purpose. That the stock of a retiring member can be sold only to
+the treasury of the company, the same to be re-issued to the succeeding
+member. That in order to avoid friction with the outside commercial
+world, the stockholders collectively shall sell to themselves
+individually, at ruling market prices, whatever they may need, the
+profits to go as a contribution from all to the insurance fund for the
+aged. That the care of the sick and the injured, and the education of
+the children, be classed and paid as a legitimate expense of the farm.
+That the co-operators collectively, pay to themselves individually, a
+wage sufficiently generous to enable them to purchase what they may
+desire in the way of furniture, food and clothing; allowing for a
+liberal percentage to be devoted to the sinking fund, to pay for the
+farm, the stock, and also for the additional land that may be secured as
+future farms for the children. That all other details necessary for the
+successful carrying out of these plans, be left for a satisfactory
+solution, to the practical working and co-operative thinking of the
+members of the farm.
+
+"I wish you, Mr. Flagg, as soon as may be convenient, to make a tour of
+inspection for the purpose of selecting and purchasing ten of the most
+available sites for such farms that you can find. From the ten you shall
+choose the one best adapted to the conditions required for the initial
+farm.
+
+"After occupation, at the end of five years, these lands are to be sold
+to the co-operators, at the purchase price, which, in any event, must
+not exceed the sum of ten dollars per acre. Until the deeds are made to
+the co-operators, these lands are to be in your custody as sole agent
+and director.
+
+"In these matters my daughter, Fern, will aid you in every possible way.
+Many times you will find her advice valuable, therefore when needed,
+command it without hesitation. I have an abiding faith that her
+inspiration will benefit you in many ways in achieving success for the
+model farm; a matter in which I am greatly interested and to which, as
+both mortal and spirit, I have for a number of years given close
+attention and much earnest thought. I now leave the matter to you and to
+Fern for such thought and discussion as the occasion may demand. I shall
+be glad at any time to answer questions concerning any particular point.
+Good night, Mr. Flagg; Good night my daughter."
+
+As Fennimore Fenwick bade them good night, both Fillmore and Fern
+returned the salutation, and Fern rose from her chair, saying:
+
+"I think, Mr. Flagg, that until now I have never quite understood the
+broad principles of real unselfishness. In the light of my father's
+comprehensive statement of the true purpose of human life, they stand
+forth in bold relief, clear and strong. What a grand incentive they
+offer, to stir the zeal and enthusiasm of our co-operative workers! All
+life is affected by them and discloses new meanings. All life seems more
+precious, more sacred. Yet the task assigned to you, Mr. Flagg, is not
+an easy one: I foresee many difficulties, but you will overcome all of
+them. The plan is so thoroughly in harmony with right and justice, so
+fraught with happiness for the masses, that it must succeed! I trust
+that you feel encouraged to go forward hopefully with the work?"
+
+"Thanks to Fennimore Fenwick," replied Fillmore Flagg, "I am armed
+against all obstacles by a new philosophy of life. Its possibilities, as
+applied I to practical work, are beyond computation! His masterly
+statement of the true theory and purpose of human life, embodies the
+crystallized wisdom of centuries. I am profoundly impressed with it.
+Applied to my chosen life work, it demands my best thought, my entire
+devotion: to co-operative work as exemplified by our proposed model
+farm, it means unqualified success!
+
+"Pardon me, Miss Fenwick, you have been hard at work, writing rapidly
+for a long time. You need rest. Let us then postpone further discussion
+until tomorrow."
+
+"Yes, I think that will be best," replied Fern, "so good night, Mr.
+Flagg."
+
+"Good night, Miss Fenwick."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+FILLMORE AND FERN.
+
+
+For Fillmore Flagg, a never-to-be-forgotten week has passed since the
+interview with Fennimore Fenwick, noted in our previous chapter. He is
+still at Fairy Fern Cottage, busy with preparatory work for his coming
+tour. Momentous events, which have radically changed his life, have
+followed each other in quick succession. Hours have passed as moments
+fly, in absorbing interviews with his spirit father and mother. His
+store of questions in relation to their experiences in spirit life, have
+all been answered: these answers have in turn suggested many more, until
+now he is satisfied. For him, the two worlds have been united--the
+continuity of life beyond the grave has been established as a verity
+past contradiction. As conscious individuals and loving parents
+in the realms of spirit life, his father and mother are as real
+to him as mortals. With each succeeding interview this conviction
+has grown, until, fully conscious of their loving sympathy and
+support, he begins to comprehend the connection between life and
+immortality; the stupendous meaning of immortal life--of never-ending
+progression--overshadows and dominates all other thoughts. In profound
+reverence he repeats to himself:
+
+"How noble, how sacred, how wonderful is life! A few years, comparably
+brief as moments, on the mortal plane of existence, to be followed by an
+endless Eternity, spent in gleaning wisdom and happiness from the rich
+fields of infinite progression. By the measure of immortality, who shall
+attempt to describe or limit the destiny of a human soul? As the epitome
+of the planet, the universe, and the universal cosmos, it must follow
+that the human soul is the repository of infinite possibilities. This,
+then, is the spiritual heritage of all. Sin and suffering, selfishness
+and greed, crime and vice in the transitory stage of the mortal, might
+stain and retard his spiritual growth, but they could never destroy the
+glorious possibilities of the final unfoldment."
+
+This broad conception of the possibilities of human life, here and
+hereafter, came to Fillmore Flagg as a revelation of the most sacred and
+marvelous character: in the light of such a revelation, the hideousness
+of selfishness stood revealed like a grim and warning monster. Now he
+saw the path of duty plain before him. On the higher, broader plane of
+unselfishness, he must strive to develop new powers and new aspirations
+to aid him in making better conditions for a more perfect protection and
+unfoldment of human life. To satisfy his highest ideal, he must devote
+himself to this work. The inspiration of the two worlds was upon him!
+His love for Fern Fenwick, the personification of all that was noble
+and beautiful, urged him forward; intensified and developed his highest
+aspirations for good; permeated, glorified and dominated his entire
+being. Love and life!--the former, the mystery and the crowning glory of
+the latter.
+
+Hours of self communion, alone in his room, had for Fillmore Flagg a
+hitherto unknown charm. The crowding memories of the happiest and by far
+the the most important week of his life, with a tenacity like fever-born
+visions, passed through and occupied his mind again and yet again. The
+bright image of Fern Fenwick was the central figure of each event, her
+grace and beauty was its chief point of interest.
+
+At her unrivaled cottage home he had been the honored guest to whom she
+had paid her undivided attention. Thanks to her wonderful mediumship, he
+no longer felt himself an orphan--the gateway of death was also the
+gateway of life. His father and mother had been restored to him, joined
+again to his life--his heritage of immortality assured! The truth had
+been made plain to him that the people of the two worlds were joined by
+everlasting ties of love and sympathy into the one great flood of
+humanity, all human beings, all immortal spirits, incarnate, excarnate.
+
+Again, to Fern's mediumship he owed his acquaintance with Fennimore
+Fenwick, whom he had learned to know, to admire, to love and respect as
+the highest type of a wise, great and noble man. How fortunate he was in
+having so many opportunities for learning from such a great master! He
+prophesied then and there, that the gratitude of coming generations was
+to bear witness to the power, wisdom and eloquence of Fennimore
+Fenwick's teachings.
+
+How the memory of all these things swelled the tide of love for Fern
+Fenwick, in the heart of Fillmore Flagg. How bright and amiable, how
+gloriously beautiful she was. How kind and gracious she was to him, and
+what a delightful deference she paid to his opinions! Would he ever
+again experience another week so full of unalloyed happiness? He had but
+to close his eyes--a radiant vision of Fern Fenwick was before him,
+thrilling his heart with hope, urging him forward to the goal of duty.
+With a sigh he thought of the coming journey. For one blissful week, in
+the light of her angelic eyes, in the radiance of her loveliness, in the
+subtle charm of her magnetic presence, he had basked as in the sunshine
+of paradise: now the hour of parting was approaching, he must not allow
+himself to be despondent, that would be unmanly; he must hope, wait, and
+work. Surely his star of destiny augured well for his future. Doubt he
+could not; doubt he would not! Yes, he would banish all thought of
+parting. He would think of the work, of its demands, of how Fern had
+helped him to prepare for it. Oh how proud he was of the peerless girl
+that had grown so dear to him! As he recalled the many hours they had
+spent together in discussing the plans of Fennimore Fenwick; as applied
+to the several stages of development of the model farm, how he had
+admired and appreciated Fern's brilliant ideas, her pertinent
+suggestions, her wonderful power to foresee administrative difficulties
+and to provide most efficiently against them. How well these
+accomplishments attested the high order of her intellectual training;
+how perfectly they demonstrated the astuteness of her power of thought,
+when applied to practical subjects. With such mental and spiritual
+attributes, supplemented and intensified by the deep inspiration and the
+awe inspiring majesty of her mediumship, how immeasurably superior she
+appeared when compared with other women. What problem in life so knotty
+that she could not solve? With the aid of such a matchless woman, how
+could he fail in the work before him?
+
+Together Fern and Fillmore had examined many maps for the purpose of
+deciding on the particular states to be inspected during the coming
+tour. The great south-west seemed to offer the best field for choosing.
+The Indian lands, just coming into market, were not to be ignored. They
+were located in a climate that would promote the growth of a large
+variety of crops, therefore were especially desirable. Much time was
+spent by them in going over these important questions very carefully.
+Fennimore Fenwick, from time to time, had given his opinion on many
+doubtful points. Now everything was settled. Tomorrow Fillmore Flagg was
+to start for the rich lands of the great west and south-west, with
+careful instructions to keep Fern Fenwick informed, by frequent letters,
+of his progress and whereabouts. Whenever a particular plot of ground
+was selected, Fern was to send him a certified check for its purchase.
+This plan was to be followed until all of the desired plots had been
+secured. The preparatory work on the model farm was then to be
+commenced.
+
+On the eve of his departure, Fillmore Flagg in reviewing these
+arrangements, began to perceive that many days must pass before he could
+hope to see Fern Fenwick again. The intensity of his love for her urged
+an immediate declaration, that he might know his fate before commencing
+his long journey; on the other hand, prudence counselled a more patient
+waiting and wooing as the only safe and honorable course for him to
+pursue, as to declare his love at this time would be, under all the
+circumstances which had made him a guest at the cottage, taking an
+unfair advantage of the confidence and hospitality of his charming
+hostess, who had become so inexpressibly dear to him. Yes, he would take
+up the burden of his work, full of confidence in the wisdom and
+watchfulness of his guiding star. Hope whispered in his heart: "Fern's
+destiny is so closely interwoven with thine own, that no fear of the
+future need disturb thee; in peace and contentment await thou the
+fulfillment of thy brightest hopes."
+
+Meanwhile, in the heart of Fern Fenwick, the impression left by the
+events of the week, were marked and apparent even to herself. A change
+in her regard for Fillmore Flagg was manifest. He was so capable, so
+loyal to her, and to her interests; and withal so intensely in love with
+her, that in turn her admiration for him grew apace--in fact she did not
+attempt to hold it in check. She adored an honest frankness as much as
+she despised smooth deceit. She knew that Fillmore Flagg was the soul of
+honor and that she could trust him under all circumstances, else her
+father would not have chosen him to be her worthy and trusted assistant
+in the work. In manly beauty he was very near to her ideal; in nobleness
+of heart, intellectual development and training, he was her equal:
+therefore it was but natural for her to bestow glances of encouragement
+on a lover so attractive, so cultured, so unselfish and so ardent.
+Perhaps she had met her fate! However, before dismissing the subject,
+she decided at the first opportunity to call the attention of her father
+and mother to the matter and ask their advice, which would govern her
+course in the future. She felt that whatever the advice might be, in any
+event, it would not mar or blight her true happiness.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+SOLARIS FARM.
+
+
+One year from the time Fillmore Flagg left Fairy Fern Cottage on his
+trip to the west, we find him at "Solaris Farm," the title chosen for
+the model or experimental co-operative farm. The location was nearly
+midway, on one of the through lines of railway which connect St. Louis,
+the great central city of the Mississippi valley, with the gulf and
+inland cities of the mammoth state of Texas.
+
+The land was beautifully located, the soil was rich and easy to
+cultivate. The entire tract was well watered by a fine, clear, swift
+flowing stream. In extent, the farm comprised ten sections, laying
+compactly together, and making in all, 6,400 acres of choice land. Nine
+of the sections formed a perfect square, each of the four sides being
+three miles in length. The tenth section joined the west line of the
+south-west section in the square, which made the south line of the farm
+four miles in length. The railroad passed through the farm near the
+north line of the southern tier of sections, touching on the way an
+ideal site for the farm village. About four thousand acres of the land
+was broad, rolling prairie, combined with a large proportion of
+unusually rich river bottom, both well adapted to the growth of a great
+variety of crops. The remainder of the farm presented a rough, broken
+surface, with a soil not so rich, sometimes quite poor and gravelly, but
+being protected by a great bend in the river, was well covered by a
+valuable growth of timber. The surface of the roughest ground covered
+large deposits of lead, zinc, mica and several varieties of choice clay.
+Numerous bold bluffs contained fine quarries of excellent stone for
+building purposes, also for an abundant supply of lime and cement. A
+number of the ridges offered unlimited quantities of gravel and sand.
+Here and there several rich veins of a very good quality of bituminous
+coal cropped out.
+
+In making his preliminary examination, the quick eye of Fillmore Flagg
+soon discovered that this eighteen-hundred-acre tract, of what the
+owners considered their poorest lands, marred and disfigured by a tangle
+of undergrowth, a confusion of unsightly rocks, gullies and bluffs; was
+in reality a treasure, a vast store of choice material for coming needs.
+When the ten sections, including this broken tract, were offered for the
+lump sum of thirty two thousand dollars, Fillmore Flagg quickly closed
+the bargain. He was confident that at last, after many weeks of patient
+searching, a most desirable site for the initial farm had been secured,
+at the low average price of five dollars per acre. No wonder he was
+elated and proud of his achievement! The remaining lands of the township
+were sparsely settled by about fifty families, generally occupying large
+ranches.
+
+Acting on Fern Fenwick's advice, as soon as the site of the model farm
+was chosen, Fillmore Flagg prepared an advertisement for publication in
+three of the leading spiritual papers, setting forth the purposes of
+the organization, together with the requirements necessary for
+membership. The applications which soon followed were so numerous that
+at the end of the first three months he had been able to complete a very
+choice selection for the colony. Before the end of the next three
+months, he had placed them on the farm, prepared for active work.
+
+In the accomplishment of this remarkable feat in so short a time, he had
+the able assistance of his trusted friends, George and Gertrude Gerrish,
+who were, from the beginning, most thoroughly in sympathy with him and
+eager to join him in the work. Fillmore Flagg had known them from
+childhood and had learned to appreciate them as progressive people of
+the most pronounced type, who were honest, courageous, and gifted to a
+high degree with the power to win the love and confidence of all who
+knew them.
+
+George and Gertrude Gerrish were born and reared on Nebraska farms, near
+the home of Fillmore Flagg. George was thirty-five; Gertrude, younger by
+three years. They had been married fifteen years and were noted as a
+handsome couple, being large, tall, straight and finely formed, with
+strong, even temperaments. Their only son, Gilbert, was a delicate lad,
+in his fourteenth year, handsome, spirituelle and intellectual to a
+remarkable degree. He was a real genius, passionately fond of books, art
+and music; already an accomplished player on both the piano and violin.
+Yet withal, he was very reticent, sensitive and shy, on account of his
+small size and deformed body, the result of spinal trouble caused by a
+fall while an infant.
+
+The Gerrish family, for the eight years previous, had resided in St.
+Louis, where George and Gertrude were employed as teachers. When
+Fillmore Flagg made them a visit while on his way west from Newburgh, he
+was both surprised and delighted to find them spiritualists.
+
+They at once became interested in his mission, and his plans for the
+establishment of a model co-operative farm. At his urgent request, they
+promised to move at once to the farm, whenever located, in order to be
+prepared to receive the colonists properly as soon as they should
+commence to assemble. This promise Fillmore Flagg considered a most
+extraordinary piece of good fortune, and so it proved.
+
+As a result of this wisely planned co-operative work, at the end of the
+first six months, a carefully selected, most efficient colony, of five
+hundred adults and one hundred and fifty children, had been assembled
+and organized; the business of the incorporation completed; the stock
+all taken; the officers chosen and a general plan of the work prepared.
+
+George Gerrish was chosen as President of the Solaris Farm Company,
+Fillmore Flagg was made trustee and general manager. The members of the
+company were young and strong, accustomed to farm labor, full of
+enthusiasm for pushing forward the work. They were all wide awake and
+progressive, quick to perceive and appreciate the importance and
+advantage of applying co-operative thought and co-operative work to
+systematic farming on a large scale. They were thoroughly in earnest and
+equally determined to make the model farm a complete success. With such
+an army of vigorous, intelligent workers, it was easy to accomplish
+before the close of the first year, the magical changes which had been
+effected at the farm.
+
+The land had all been surveyed, examined and tested; the farm carefully
+subdivided and platted, with a view to keeping a complete record, which
+should include a debit and credit account with each subdivision. The
+size and boundaries of these tracts were determined with reference to
+the capacity of the soil to best produce certain kinds or crops of
+grains, grasses, vegetables, vines, berries, fruits or trees. The crests
+of ridges, and all rough, gravelly lands, were set apart for timber,
+fruit and vineyard culture; the separate areas to be devoted to these
+three classes were carefully calculated, described and marked on the
+plat. The number of roads required to connect the various fields and
+subdivisions with the village, were laid out and made passable by
+building the necessary bridges.
+
+The site selected for the village was quite near to the railroad, and
+large enough to give abundant space for future factories, shops, lawns
+and ornamental pleasure grounds. The whole was graded, well drained and
+artistically laid out around the four sides of a spacious central
+square. A large, well constructed freight and passenger station, of
+Solaris brick, was built and established at the most convenient point on
+the railroad. In this building were the post office, express office and
+telegraph office, all in excellent business form and perfect working
+order.
+
+The manufacture of brick had been one of the first industries developed
+at the farm. An inexhaustable supply of most excellent clay had been
+discovered just at the edge of the village site, and speedily connected
+with it by a short tramway. From this clay the product of Solaris brick
+proved in every way desirable. In form, color, size and design, they
+were much superior to ordinary brick. With them, the builder could, in
+one half the time, with less cement, construct walls that were thick,
+solid and durable, yet presenting beautiful surfaces both inside and
+outside. These walls would remain for many years in perfect sanitary
+condition, kept free from dampness by the dry air circulation, due to
+the constructive design of the brick. The very fine appearance of the
+new railroad station, so advertised the beauty and excellence of Solaris
+brick, that orders from abroad soon came pouring in. To fill these
+orders without delaying the work on the village buildings, it became
+necessary to double the size of the brick-making plant; also to increase
+the number of workers. The unexpected development of such a large and
+profitable allied industry, at almost the first stage of the preparatory
+work at the farm, so encouraged Fillmore Flagg and his co-workers, so
+stimulated and quickened the spirit of inventive genius, that thereafter
+the efficiency and capacity of the machinery kept pace with the steadily
+increasing demand for brick, that too without further adding to the
+working force or to the size of the plant.
+
+A deeper excavation of the clay beds brought to light a much finer class
+of clays, which proved so excellent for the purposes of manufacturing
+general pottery, terra cotta ware, drain tiles and sewer pipe, that in
+connection with the brick works, a factory for making that kind of
+material was at once put in operation. The tramway was extended a half
+mile further from the village to reach the newly-opened stone quarries
+and coal mines, passing on the way large deposits of sand and gravel. By
+means of the tramway, an abundant supply of all kinds of the necessary
+materials could be placed on the building site very quickly. The best of
+stone for the foundations, quantities of brick, lime, sand and cement
+were at hand, waiting for the builder. All this made possible the swift
+construction of superior buildings, equipped with all of the modern
+improvements, including artistic ornamentation.
+
+As a result, before the expiration of the first six months after the
+arrival of the co-operators, the following buildings had been completed
+and were ready for use: On the south side of the public square, fronting
+north; one large mill for grinding flour and feed; one extensive
+building, large enough to be occupied as a saw mill and planing mill,
+machine, carpenter, repair and blacksmith shop all combined. On the
+north side of the square, fronting south; one large three story and
+basement block of apartment houses, sufficiently capacious to
+accommodate eight hundred people. The three upper stories were high
+enough to afford twelve-foot ceilings between the floors. The rooms were
+large, well lighted, well ventilated, and so arranged on each floor as
+to offer to every family a parlor, sitting room, dining room, two bed
+rooms, one bath room, and a kitchen. The basement of the entire block
+was furnished and fitted to be used as a restaurant, with the necessary
+dining rooms, kitchens, furnace rooms, store rooms and cellars. The
+light frame dwellings, located on one of the rear streets, which had
+given a temporary shelter to the people until the completion of the
+apartment house, were now utilized as work rooms, seed rooms, assorting
+rooms, store rooms, and for dairy and apiary purposes. On the west side
+of the square, fronting east, just across the corner from the apartment
+house, the well-appointed hall of Education and Amusement was erected.
+It was three stories high, seventy five feet wide, and one hundred and
+fifty feet long. The upper story was entirely devoted to the library,
+assembly and amusement hall, with its large stage, numerous offices and
+ante rooms. The lower rooms were arranged to be used for the business
+offices of the farm, the spacious school rooms for its one hundred and
+fifty children, the printing office and editorial rooms of the press
+club, and the eleven additional club rooms reserved for the use of the
+adults. On the same side of the square, fronting eastward and separated
+from the hall of amusement and education by one hundred feet of space,
+was the Solaris company store; four stories high, two hundred feet wide,
+two hundred feet long, built around three sides of a beautifully
+arranged rose and flower garden. The two lower stories were used to
+display a large stock of general merchandise, while the upper stories
+were occupied by the force engaged in the manufacture of general
+clothing, underwear, and in tailoring and dress making. All of these
+fine structures were built of Solaris brick, with cut stone foundations;
+the ornamental brick used in the fronts were especially designed for the
+purpose and proved wonderfully effective. In every particular the
+buildings were a credit to the company, being beautifully planned,
+skillfully constructed, and located with due regard for architectural
+effect. From the preparation of the stone, the making of the brick, lime
+and mortar, to the final completion of the buildings, including the
+making and laying of the sewer pipes, nineteen-twentieths of the total
+cost was represented by the labor of the co-operators. Of course they
+were led and taught by a few skilled workmen, directed by Fillmore
+Flagg, who had prepared the plans. The remarkable success achieved,
+proved a good lesson in the economics of co-operation, of the utmost
+significance and value; a lesson which filled the hearts of the members
+of the company with pride and joy, riveted and clinched their devotion
+to the model farm and opened their eyes to the possibilities of the
+future.
+
+Having finished this first series of buildings for immediate use,
+attention was given to the matter of improving the appearance of the
+public square. In the center of the broad, smooth green, stood the tall,
+straight flag-pole; from its top floated the stars and stripes. Eastward
+from the foot of the flag-staff, and slightly raised above the grassy
+surface of the smoothly shaven lawn, was spread a living flag in true
+colors, red, white and blue. This flag was of magnificent proportions,
+twenty-five feet in width by fifty feet in length, and presented such an
+effective appearance that it soon became the pride and delight of the
+farm children, an object of never failing interest, a beautiful living
+motto which expressed their appreciation of patriotism.
+
+While the building operations were being pushed forward, a carefully
+selected force of workers had been equally busy in making numerous
+agricultural improvements. Two thousand acres of virgin soil had been
+broken up and prepared for planting. One hundred acres of the best of
+this newly upturned soil, so clean and free from weeds, had been planted
+with a well selected series of vegetables, capable of producing a
+remunerative crop of assorted garden seeds. The series included all of
+the best known varieties with the addition of several new ones. As a
+result of skillful culture and favorable conditions, a great many tons
+of choice seeds had been grown, gathered and prepared for market. Large
+propagating gardens had been fitted and seeded with reference to the
+future demands of fruit and forestry culture. An abundant supply of all
+kinds of vegetables for farm use had been grown and stored. Goodly crops
+of corn, oats and potatoes, grown and harvested. Plenty of hay cut,
+cured and housed. Pastures, roomy enough to accommodate large herds of
+horses and cattle, securely enclosed, supplied with water and the proper
+shelter. Small herds of fine cattle and horses secured and well provided
+for. These herds were selected chiefly for breeding purposes, while a
+sufficient number of mules were purchased for the needs of the farm
+work. The bees in the well stocked apiary had already gathered a fine
+supply of honey from the wild flowers of the surrounding prairies. The
+extensive yards and buildings prepared for poultry farming on an
+unusually large scale, were so well stocked and in such fine condition
+as to promise large profits at an early day.
+
+In reviewing the work at the close of the first year, which included
+many important items not yet enumerated, the general results were so
+satisfactory that the officers and members of the Solaris Farm Company
+were very much encouraged. Owing to sales of seeds and brick in such
+considerable quantities, together with the manufacture at the farm of
+almost every kind of building material, the sum advanced by Fern
+Fenwick, the patroness, for farm buildings and equipment was less than
+one-half the amount named in Fillmore Flagg's estimate. The amount
+required for the coming year would be very much less.
+
+The general plan provided for and embraced the supplementing of
+agricultural work by a series of allied manufactures, such as naturally
+grew out of the needs of the farm: carpentering, blacksmithing, machine
+work and repairing, furniture making, turning, polishing, painting,
+staining and general wood working and finishing, pattern making, broom
+and brush making, a factory for spinning rope and cordage, basket and
+all kinds of osier weaving, brick making, pottery and all kinds of clay
+or porcelain work; together with many other things that would suggest
+themselves as time passed and the capacity of the farm was increased by
+the invention of better machinery and superior methods.
+
+The application of inventive genius on the part of the co-operators to
+operations at the brick works and pottery, had already proved equal to
+the demands of any emergency which might arise. The great variety of
+these added employments would afford a pleasant change from the monotony
+and routine of ordinary farm work. They could be pursued sometimes for
+weeks together, when legitimate farm work would be out of season, in
+this way so greatly increasing the products and profits of the farm,
+that the bonanza farm of the capitalist, which depended on wheat growing
+alone for profits, could no longer successfully compete.
+
+After much discussion by the board of management and the officers of the
+company, it was decided with the unanimous consent of the membership,
+that eight hours should be considered a day's work--six hours for the
+farm work, with two hours additional to be devoted to such of the
+manufacturing works as the member might choose. This course proved
+entirely satisfactory; it soon gave to the farm an able corps of skilled
+workmen, at the same time augmenting the collective power of the
+membership to do more effective co-operative thinking for the
+advancement of the best interests and general welfare of all.
+
+In the matter of wages, a uniform price of three dollars per day was
+fixed for each member of the company; this amount was diminished by
+deducting ten per cent for the sinking fund, five per cent for the
+general service fund, and five cents daily from each member for the
+special fund. The special fund was for the purposes of education and
+amusement. After subtracting these deductions, two dollars and fifty
+cents were left as the net per diem pay of each one. The assessments
+provided the goodly sum of $54,000 00 annually for the sinking fund,
+$27,000 00 for the general service fund, and $9,000 00 for the special
+fund.
+
+The Solaris Farm company was incorporated for ninety-nine years, with a
+provision for re-incorporation at the expiration of that period. This
+provision practically made the company a perpetual institution. The
+stock of the company was capitalized at $250,000 00, and divided into
+one thousand shares, with a par value of $250 00 each. The number of
+share holders or subscribers was limited to five hundred adults, about
+two hundred and fifty couples or families; at the end of five years, two
+shares of stock were issued to each subscriber, male or female, married
+or single. This stock, however, could not be issued until $45,000 00 had
+been paid into the sinking fund. With the issue of the stock, the
+purchase price of the farm should be paid from the sinking fund to
+Fillmore Flagg, the trustee, who would then deed the farm to the
+corporation. Thereafter the company was to maintain a sinking fund amply
+sufficient to provide such additional farms as the children of its
+members might need.
+
+In accordance with his instructions from Fennimore Fenwick, the money
+received in this way by Fillmore Flagg, was to be held by him as a
+trust for the purchase of other farms. It was further provided that the
+Solaris Farm company retained the sole right to purchase all stock which
+might be offered for sale.
+
+The general service fund was to be used in defraying the expense of
+stocking, equipping and improving the farm.
+
+It was also determined that settlements made with members, who from any
+cause might wish to leave the company, should be made on a basis of two
+dollars and fifty cents per day for the time they had been co-operators,
+with the return of whatever capital they might have invested plus
+interest at three per cent per annum; all stock subscribed for to return
+to the company's treasury.
+
+The general plan further provided for the erection of separate cottages,
+with small gardens adjoining, for the use and occupancy of such families
+as might desire them. The apartment house, now completed, had many of
+its suites of rooms arranged for independent housekeeping, but so far,
+the members of the company preferred to take their meals at the company
+restaurant, paying for them the ordinary prices. They also preferred to
+patronize the laundry, general clothing, tailoring and dress-making
+departments which were connected with the company store. To prevent any
+conflict with the commercial interests of the outside world, the
+restaurant and the company store sold food and goods at the ruling
+market prices for first-class articles, realizing that it was plainly
+the policy of the company to keep only the best of everything for
+sale--the generous profits from all sales to go as a general
+contribution from the entire membership to the insurance fund for the
+helpless and the aged. As liberal wages afforded ample means, large
+purchases were encouraged, and all tendency toward a miserly hoarding
+was discouraged. It was marked that all the members were quick to
+appreciate the fact that the more liberal their purchases, the more
+generously they swelled the fund that was set apart to provide for the
+needs and happiness of declining years. With each passing month it was
+observed that this particular feature of insurance continued to grow in
+popular favor.
+
+To enable the company to dispense with a great deal of expensive
+bookkeeping, to do business with a small amount of actual cash, and at
+the same time add another check against the disposition to hoard money;
+the payment of wages to the members of the company was made in Solaris
+scrip, good at its face value for all purchases made from the company.
+Whenever cash was needed by any of the members, an order on the
+treasurer drawn by the president and approved by the general manager,
+could easily be obtained for reasonable amounts. On presentation of the
+order, U. S. legal tenders to the amount specified, would be exchanged
+for the scrip, dollar for dollar; the treasurer cancelling this scrip by
+stamping across its face the date of the exchange and the name of the
+member, retaining the cancelled scrip as his voucher for the
+disbursement of the money. When scrip was exchanged at the store for
+goods, it was cancelled in the same way by the manager of the store. The
+plan seemed to work without friction and gave general satisfaction.
+
+At the beginning of each month an executive committee, composed of three
+men and three women, was chosen by the members of the company. This
+committee, with the general manager as chairman, made an order of work
+for each day and assigned the members to the different kinds of work
+named in the order. These assignments were always accepted cheerfully.
+The co-operators without exception and without murmur worked steadily
+and with zeal for one common result. They were keenly alive to both the
+importance and the advantages of this new kind of co-operative work,
+which gave them so many hours of leisure for rest and recreation. With
+the experience of each passing month, they realized more than ever
+before that sixteen hours out of the twenty-four so devoted, soon
+stimulated and reinforced the vital energies to such an extent that
+active labor seemed really desirable. As a matter of fact, each day they
+began to look forward eagerly to the six hours of farm work and the two
+hours additional of skilled labor, as opportunities which gave them
+refreshing and delightful exercise. Exercise that was necessary to
+promote health and happiness--exercise which left them with an added
+relish and brighter mental conditions for the enjoyment of the hours of
+study and amusement that were to follow. Here again, the wisdom of
+nature's law of compensation was demonstrated. A grave question of the
+utmost importance to the progress of mankind was for them forever
+settled. The discovery had dawned on the minds of these people that
+labor, no longer a curse, was in reality nature's richest blessing!
+
+Among the more important improvements on the farm which Fillmore Flagg
+had carefully planned, was the necessary preparatory work on the large
+propagating gardens, located near the river, not far from the village.
+In connection with the construction of the village water works, at the
+time of the grading and sewering of the village grounds, these gardens
+were furnished with a complete system of irrigating pipes. These,
+together with the thousands of pots required at a later period, were
+made in the pottery at the brick works--another product of farm labor.
+With such a complete control of the necessary moisture, the sprouting
+process in the long seed beds proved unusually successful. These beds,
+which covered several acres of very rich soil, were thickly planted with
+all kinds of fruit and tree-bearing seeds; together with grape cuttings,
+mulberries for the silkworm culture, quinces, currants, tea plants, a
+great variety of berries, a fine selection of ornamental shrubbery,
+dwarf fruit trees, roses, and many other plants besides. The young
+plants soon reached a stage of growth where potting became necessary in
+order to make them strong, well grown, independent young shoots, ready
+at any time to be transplanted without injury into nursery rows, the
+vineyard or the berry plots.
+
+To pot the contents of these beds required the labor of many hands,
+consequently the task furnished a pleasant, congenial employment for a
+major part of the female co-operators. A large, well floored, wide
+roofed shed was constructed just at the edge of the gardens nearest the
+village. It was wide enough to accommodate two rows of roomy tables, and
+of a length sufficient for fifty tables in each row. Adjoining the end
+of the potting shed towards the village, was the storehouse, containing
+quantities of prepared soil and a large supply of assorted pots. A
+double track system of narrow tramways passed between the rows of
+tables, on its way from the storehouse to the different seed beds in all
+parts of the garden. On this tramway the little cars came from the
+storehouse to the tables, laden with supplies of pots and prepared
+soil; these they exchanged for trays of potted plants to be returned to
+the seed beds. In returning from the gardens on the other track, they
+brought cargoes of shallow trays filled with little plantlets just
+lifted from the seed beds. This cargo-bearing process, on the part of
+the tram cars, continued throughout the day as often as required, making
+light work for all concerned. To witness the work under the shed as it
+goes bravely on is a pleasing sight. Let us pause a moment to enjoy it.
+
+At each table are two operators, who may sit or stand while they work.
+Protected by strong gloves, the deft fingers swiftly fly--the long,
+double lines of maidens and matrons are as merry as crickets! The buzz
+of musical chatter, song and story, inspires the work, fitting time with
+swift pinions and transforming such toil into six hours of fun and
+frolic!
+
+This class of work proved so charming that a majority of the women
+preferred it to employment in the apiary, dairy, nursery, school,
+office, restaurant, or any department of the company store.
+
+With this glimpse of the general development of Solaris Farm, its
+improvements and its people, during the first year, we discover that
+Fillmore Flagg has been a very busy man; that his skill, inventive
+genius, and executive ability have been tried severely; that he has been
+able to respond to the demands of every occasion. However, such was his
+confidence in the wisdom of Fern Fenwick, that when he found himself
+puzzled or in doubt, he relied largely on her advice to suggest some
+proper solution for each vexing question. He had, from the beginning,
+furnished her with a complete history of every stage of the development
+of the farm, along with his weekly reports. At the close of each one he
+gave a list of topics on which her opinions were solicited; the
+suggestions in her replies led to such a speedy unraveling of the
+tangled situations and troublesome questions, that Fillmore Flagg was
+impressed more than ever, with her excellent judgment and the brilliancy
+of her genius. His admiration grew; his love grew faster! In his
+personal letters, transmitting the weekly reports, the expression of
+these sentiments of admiration and adoration continued to grow in force
+and fervor until he finally gained courage to request permission to
+address her as a lover: a lover whose happiness would be largely
+increased by every effort he might make to put in words the thoughts
+born of his devotion to her--the one adorable woman in the world, for
+him.
+
+In her reply, Fern Fenwick frankly stated that she was inclined to
+consider his request with some degree of favor. That she had sought
+advice from her parents. That in response her father, Fennimore Fenwick,
+had expressed himself as convinced of the integrity, honesty, and purity
+of Fillmore's love for her; but he could not consent to an engagement
+binding his daughter to marriage, until the unqualified success of the
+model farm, at the end of the first five years, had demonstrated the
+worthiness of Fillmore Flagg. After that event, if both continued to
+desire a marriage engagement, his consent might be considered as
+assured. Her mother, she said, had repeated and emphasized her father's
+advice: this advice she felt in duty bound to heed and respect.
+Therefore, on the conditions named, she was willing to accept him as a
+lover, with the distinct understanding however, that he must not claim
+her hand in marriage until after the achievement of the complete
+success of Solaris Farm.
+
+In the postscript at the close of her letter, Fern adroitly, though
+perhaps innocently, lighted the torch of hope in the heart of Fillmore
+Flagg by archly expressing herself as follows: "Henceforth my personal
+interest in the progress and final success of the model farm will, no
+doubt, fully equal your own."
+
+This little postscript was a never failing source of comfort and
+encouragement to Fillmore Flagg. He read it and re-read it again and
+again: in his ecstacy he caught himself kissing it a dozen times the
+first week after it reached him. With each reading his hitherto dormant
+love nature gathered force and intensity. In the throbbing tide of
+joyful emotions, he was suffused with a strange new happiness. He
+blushed like a girl as the certainty came home to his heart that at last
+his love for this beautiful woman was returned. It may be marked as
+noteworthy that this important letter came to Fillmore Flagg just eight
+months after his parting with Fern Fenwick at her cottage home on the
+Hudson. While meditating and luxuriating under the spell of the happy
+significance of this event, as affecting his future life, he thanked his
+angel friends for so successfully speeding his wooing. With this
+assurance he was confident that at last his star of destiny was dominant
+in the sky of love. Calmly serene, he could now await the approach of
+whatever trials in life the future might have in store for him. Nothing
+could shake him from this fortress of love! Nothing could intervene to
+separate his life from the life of his beloved Fern! With a sigh of
+contentment, he prepared to devote himself more ambitiously and more
+industriously than ever before, to the development of Solaris Farm. He
+wooed every inventive thought; he planned night and day to overcome all
+obstacles that presented themselves. In his letters to Fern Fenwick,
+rejoicing in a freedom to express himself without restraint on the
+limitless theme of his great love for her, he filled page after page
+with eloquent adoration of his heart's chosen one--his highest ideal of
+the glorious perfection of womanhood. The effect on Fillmore Flagg of
+this fervent, all-absorbing love, was most excellent; it broadened and
+purified his life, eliminating from it all the dross of selfishness. He
+took a new interest in the lives of every married couple and every pair
+of lovers on the farm. By persevering effort, tact and skill, he
+completely won their confidence. He shared their hopes, plans, joys,
+sorrows, loves and crosses. In all this he never once failed to increase
+their love for him and their devotion to the farm.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+CLUB LIFE AT SOLARIS.
+
+
+In the work of building up in the minds of the co-operators, an abiding
+faith in Solaris Farm and its future success, Fillmore Flagg had the
+able support of George and Gertrude Gerrish. They had proved themselves
+the right people in the right place! In the schools and nursery Gertrude
+had become invaluable. Her genial temperament, her fondness for
+children, the kindly influence of her great mother-heart, with its never
+failing store of sympathy, patience, tact and skill, all attested that
+she was a natural teacher whose presence among the children was a
+perpetual benefaction, while the wonderful store of her personal
+magnetism brought her the love, respect and obedience of both the old
+and the young. They instinctively felt her power to make them wiser,
+better and happier. This was a well merited tribute of praise, worth a
+king's ransom in gold!
+
+George Gerrish soon became very popular on account of the extraordinary
+ability he displayed in organizing the members of the farm company into
+the numerous clubs devised to promote the interests of education,
+science and amusement. The description which follows will serve to
+illustrate his skill as an organizer in carrying out the general plan
+prepared by Fillmore Flagg. In addition they will give a clear idea of
+the scope and variety of the talent developed, together with a proper
+conception of the splendid equipment of the farm for the social,
+educational, ethical and scientific development of its people.
+
+First in order came the Press Club. To it was assigned the duty of
+editing and publishing the "SOLARIS SENTINEL," a weekly paper devoted to
+the interests of the farm. It was filled with topics of general interest
+to the community; themes, essays, poems, personals and social notices
+contributed by the club members, suggestions and ideas leading to better
+methods for the care and culture of the farm stock and crops, also as to
+preparing, the same for market. The range of topics included hints
+regarding any of the allied manufacturing industries which were carried
+forward by the farm company. In addition the paper gave full weekly
+reports from the officers of the different clubs. The literary budget
+for each week was completed by selections from the general contribution
+box, a very large one, which was fastened to the outer door of the rooms
+of the club. Into this box every man, woman and child was invited to
+drop such written scraps, signed or unsigned, brief or lengthy, as they
+might be moved to offer for publication. The selections from this box
+were eagerly read. They often proved surprisingly brilliant, novel or
+suggestive, frequently disclosing rare literary merit,--altogether
+constituting the most popular department of the paper. The editorials
+were carefully prepared and well written. They were usually along lines
+of co-operative work; its desirability as an encouragement to
+unselfishness, and also to show how the work might best improve social,
+industrial and political conditions. The volume and excellence of the
+reading matter thus produced, was marked by general comment as a matter
+of astonishment. The unstinted praise which it elicited reflected much
+credit on the club: therefore to be chosen a member was a coveted honor
+which was reserved for the meritorious few.
+
+The Dancing Club, in point of popularity, was the most successful of
+all, and deservedly so. Its membership embraced the entire colony, both
+old and young who, one and all, seemed to enter into the spirit of the
+movement with a zealous abandon, a united joyousness, most delightful to
+behold. The social ties which bound them together, grew and strengthened
+with the recurrence of each meeting. On two afternoons of each week, the
+club teachers gave two-hour lessons or drills to all who might desire
+them. On three evenings of each week, in the large hall of education and
+amusement, two and one-half hours were devoted to dancing, in which all
+the members took part. These evening dances proved so fascinating that
+as a rule very few members were ever noted as being absent. An attack of
+illness which prevented the attendance of a member, must be desperate
+indeed. In the matter of general improvement the results were most
+excellent. To bestow perfect deportment, dignified control of the body
+and limbs, with an easy, graceful movement on all occasions, there is
+nothing like dancing. To eliminate the depressing effects of grief,
+mental or business cares, harassing trials of temper, physical
+exhaustion, or disturbed spiritual equilibrium, dancing is a remedy of
+marvelous potency. For the key to the reason why this is true, we are
+indebted to the wonderful discoveries in psychology and psychurgy made
+by that able scientist, renowned thinker and brilliant writer, Professor
+Elmer Gates. The following is a very brief statement of his reasons as
+to how and why the emotions of the individual affect the vital forces of
+life:
+
+
+     "The human body is a collection of co-operative cells, more or less
+     intelligent and responsive, therefore an important part of the
+     thinking machine which is acted upon by the superior mind of the
+     brain. The superior mind is in turn reacted upon by the automatic
+     metabolism set up in the cells. Automatic metabolism of the cell,
+     is its ability to carry on within itself the various processes of
+     life that may be necessary to best fit it for the performance of
+     special functions, as a particular part of the co-operative body.
+     Violent emotions of anger, hate, despair and grief, are katabolic,
+     poisonous and harmful; they tear down and destroy life. The
+     poisonous deposits left in the cells by these emotions are called
+     'katastates.' Laughter and merriment, with all the emotions of
+     pleasure, adoration, worship, love, affection, hope, beauty, etc.,
+     are 'anabolic,' or life-preserving. The vital, health-giving
+     deposits left in the cells by these emotions are called
+     'anastates.' Nature accomplishes her perfect work by beautiful
+     methods. The cells are fed and sustained by the circulation of the
+     blood; they are reached from the smaller branching arteries by a
+     network of minute, thread-like channels, sometimes called
+     'arterioles.' These arterioles are accompanied by the equally fine
+     wires of the nervous system, closely connected with the brain
+     centers. These wires are electrified by the emotions; they expand
+     the arterioles, and the cells are flooded with an unusual supply of
+     blood; thus they are correspondingly vitalized or poisoned,
+     according to the kind of the dominant emotion, its duration and its
+     intensity."
+
+
+From the foregoing we readily perceive that the joyful emotions stirred
+by that poetical trinity, the melody, the rythm and motion of dancing,
+arouses the circulation so potently that every cell in the body tingles
+with its superabundance of vitality; both the heart and the brain
+respond to the invigorating tide, while its precious freight of
+anastates is vivifying and thrilling every cell. These happifying
+emotions soon become permanently dominant, the depressing emotions grow
+weaker, fade away and disappear. The individual is vitalized and
+rejuvenated! We begin to understand that when properly indulged in,
+dancing is the most fascinating, healthful and helpful of all the
+amusements. The Solaris Farm people were both fascinated and benefited
+by the dancing exercises so generously provided by the club; the growing
+interest and enthusiasm aroused was a matter of astonishment even to
+themselves. With the continuation of the club dances, the intensity of
+the enjoyment and the capacity for it, seemed to increase; this,
+together with the pleasing memories of bygone dances, seemed to bind
+them yet more closely to the destinies of Solaris Farm. Strong,
+straight, lithe figures, happy faces, and eyes shining with the fires
+of perfect health, gave testimony to the efficacy of music and motion as
+applied to physical development. With grateful hearts, these happy
+people realized that this pure font of happiness came to them as the
+result of unselfish, harmonious co-operation.
+
+The effect on Gilbert Gerrish of this universal spirit of gaiety, was as
+marked as it was beneficial. On the raised platform at the head of the
+dancing hall, violin in hand, and surrounded by a chosen few of his
+friends in the musical club, he seemed to grow in stature as he breathed
+in the pervading merriment; living a new life, in which his deformity no
+longer marred his pleasure. Through the association of many months he
+had grown accustomed to the personal magnetism of the farm people. They
+were very proud of him and of his many brilliant accomplishments. This
+all-pervading sentiment of loving pride came to him as a benediction,
+which his refined, sensitive nature graciously absorbed. His shyness and
+reticence disappeared; his face glowed with the flush of happiness; his
+beautiful eyes shone with the fires of a new inspiration. With the hand
+of a master he swept the strings with a bow of magic; new strains of
+sweet, thrilling music stirred the dancers and moved them as one mass to
+the throbbing rythm of the intoxicating melody: a melody so charming
+that none could resist. Filled with the power of a new grace and dignity
+at such moments, Gilbert Gerrish felt a keen triumph in his ability to
+stir the emotional natures of these people whom he loved; to inspire
+them to better deeds and to nobler lives. They, in turn, recognized and
+paid willing homage to a noble soul, a great genius, whose power to sway
+and control them was not in the least deflected or dimmed by a thought
+of his deformed body. Under the mystic spell of divine music, which
+appeals to the highest aspirations of the human heart; which calls forth
+the hidden forces of the soul: they came in such perfect rapport with
+him in his inner life, that they sensed with soulful eyes the strong,
+radiant, symmetrical spirit shining through the defects and barriers of
+a fleshly prison. Thus transfigured, they saw him, not as he appeared to
+ordinary mortals, but as he really was. To these people of Solaris, this
+transfiguration was lasting. Very soon they came to regard him as a
+talisman of good fortune--the mascot of the farm.
+
+The Photographic Club, organized by George Gerrish soon after the press
+club with the intention of making it the nucleus of a future art club,
+proved a surprising success at an early stage of its existence. Very
+soon after active work began, fifty members had been enrolled. In
+discussing with the executive committee a general plan of formation,
+Fillmore Flagg remarked that he felt very sure the club would soon prove
+a valuable aid to the farm in the direction of furnishing attractive
+illustrations of the farm itself, its products, stock, fruits and
+flowers, to be used as advertisements. With this in view, he made
+arrangements to provide suitable rooms, large, well lighted and fitted
+for the work, in connection with the construction of an isolated
+building, made as nearly fire-proof as possible which, when finished,
+was to be devoted mainly to the needs of farm experiments in the
+department of agricultural chemistry. The completed rooms, with a large
+lot of cameras of various sizes, together with an abundant supply of
+photographic material, were placed at the disposal of the working
+members of the club. These things were rightly considered a necessary
+part of an educational outfit. Fillmore Flagg and George Gerrish both
+were skillful photographers: with the wise guidance of two such able
+teachers, the class soon began to produce creditable work. After the
+expiration of a fixed period, in compliance with an imperative club
+rule, each member was obliged to complete all work from start to finish
+without assistance. This would give scope and opportunity for
+expressions of spontaneity and inventive genius in the individual
+treatment of the work, which might tend to the evolution of superior
+methods. It was clearly an advantage for the members to be able to say
+truthfully that photographs produced under such requirements were
+actually the results of their own individual handiwork; from focusing
+the object, timing the exposure of the plate, on through the various
+stages of developing, toning, printing and mounting, up to the final
+process of polishing the finished picture. At the end of each month the
+members individually were required to submit twelve finished photographs
+to the inspection of a committee of five. This committee was composed of
+two ladies and two gentlemen in addition to Fillmore Flagg, who was the
+chairman. From this collection of twelve lot pictures, representing the
+finest work of the club, the committee selected four photographs from
+each lot, which were chosen to become a part of the farm exhibit to be
+displayed on the walls of the library, hall of education and the
+school-rooms. This monthly award for meritorious work acted as a
+wonderful stimulus to all the club members, so increasing their
+ambition, industry and artistic invention, that an ever increasing
+number of delightful surprises followed each monthly examination. In
+considering the selections as a class, the extent and variety of the
+subjects treated covered a wide range. Among them we may name the
+general and special views of the farm, its buildings, fields of grain,
+corn, cotton and broom corn; bits of forest, meadow or brookside
+landscapes; specimens of the different vegetables and garden products;
+interior views of the different buildings; photographs of groups and of
+individual members of the company; pictures of manufactured articles,
+tableware, ornamental brick and tile work, and general pottery; a great
+variety of cabinet work, furniture and willow ware; splendid photographs
+of horses, mules, cattle, sheep, hogs and poultry, also wild animals and
+birds, singly and in groups; views of trees, streams, roads, bridges and
+railroad trains; enlarged photographs of the insect enemies of farm
+products; others of the birds which prey upon such insects; artistic
+views of seed beds, nursery rows, potting sheds, brick and pottery
+works--in fact, pictures of every possible aspect of the agricultural
+and manufacturing industries on the farm. Taken together, this
+collection presented a most interesting series for the school rooms,
+which proved an object lesson of great value to both pupil and teacher.
+The landscapes were especially excellent in giving correct ideas of
+distance values in perspective drawing.
+
+As time passed, the inventive genius of the club members began to crop
+out in the repair shop, where they not infrequently, and sometimes much
+to their surprise, found themselves able to construct better and cheaper
+instruments, lenses and attachments than they were able to buy. With
+these improvements they soon achieved success in color photography.
+Later this led to making magnificently colored slides for stereopticon,
+kinetescope and biograph exhibits, which soon attracted wide attention
+and were in such demand that a large trade resulted. In this way another
+exceedingly profitable allied industry was added to the now famous
+Solaris Farm.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+FENWICK HALL.
+
+
+In the infancy of this Republic, when its government was looking about
+for a permanent home, Gen. Washington was moved to found and lay out the
+City of Washington as its Capitol. With a marvelous prescience he
+foresaw the coming needs and future greatness of the newly-united
+states. Impressed with visions of the glorious destiny awaiting his
+beloved people, his cherished republic, he wisely concluded to provide
+generously for the growth of a magnificent city which, a century later,
+should reflect credit as the capital of a mighty nation. Careless of the
+gibes and sneers of many of his most intimate friends, Washington, the
+far-seeing statesman, the invincible soldier, deliberately planned,
+platted and surveyed through the wilderness of forest at that time
+covering the great triangular basin lying between the Heights of
+Columbia and the waters of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers; such a
+bewildering array of broad streets, wide avenues, and roomy public
+parks, as would be ample and suitable for a brilliant city like Paris,
+(whose system of streets he had taken as a model,) at least sufficient
+for the wants of a population of a half million. The dawn of the
+twentieth century saw a complete realization of General Washington's
+brightest hopes, a verification of his prophetic visions. The wand of
+progress had transformed the straggling village of "magnificent
+distances," into the most royally beautiful city on the continent. A
+city which had become the pride and delight of one hundred millions of
+free people, who individually felt a personal interest in the vastness,
+the beauty and the imposing grandeur of its magnificent public
+buildings, which represented the crowning loveliness of architectural
+design, the highest artistic expression of American genius; altogether
+most perfectly and fittingly adorning the unrivaled capitol city of the
+most progressive, powerful, and meritoriously dominant republic on the
+face of the planet! To this Mecca of republics, as the social and
+political center of the western hemisphere, came the great thinkers,
+scientists, artists, orators and statesmen of the world.
+
+Commandingly situated on Columbia Heights, overlooking this surpassingly
+beautiful city, was Fenwick Hall, the home of Fern Fenwick. The Hall was
+a large quadrangular structure of imposing appearance, erected in the
+center of spacious grounds, most charmingly laid out, with a rare
+combination of lawn, flowers and shrubbery. The material used in its
+construction was Seneca sandstone, in color a rich dark red, and was
+trimmed with a pale mottled green stone, quite as beautiful as
+serpentine. The effect of the combination was as harmonious as it was
+ornamental. The main building was four full stories in height above the
+deep basement. It was made more conspicuous and more picturesque by the
+four octagonal towers, one-half of which projected from each corner of
+the building. These beautiful towers of a uniform size, rose thirty
+feet above the roof of the building itself. The basement and towers were
+of rough green stone; the caps and sills of the long, deep windows,
+together with the arcade, were of green stone, beautifully carved and
+polished. The arcade, which served both as a covered way, and a portico
+over the main entrance, was at once artistic and unique. It was formed
+by a picturesque combination of four Moorish arches. These arches were
+uniformly twenty-five feet in height and twenty-five feet in width: the
+openings of the double arch were placed in front with the single
+openings at either side. By this arrangement the beauty of the entire
+structure was greatly enhanced, while a very appropriate entrance to
+Fenwick Hall was the result.
+
+At the rear of the grounds, on a line with the center of the mansion,
+were the roomy stables. They were built of rough Seneca sandstone. Like
+Swiss cottages, they were made more beautiful by a profusion of richly
+colored slates which covered the broad, steep roof and the wide eaves.
+Between the mansion and the stables, on the same line, twenty-five feet
+distant from the former, was the pretty two story building, of the same
+material, devoted to the kitchen, the heating and the lighting plants.
+Both buildings were connected with each other and with the main building
+by a long colonnade of harmonious proportions; its heavy cornice,
+narrow, steep roof, and long double line of slender supporting pillars,
+were all of the same red stone. The color effects offered by the lovely
+contrast between the velvety green of the broad, smoothly shaven lawns
+and the rich reds of the Seneca stone, were simply delightful!
+Architecturally considered, the combined effect of the group of
+buildings, arcade and colonnade, was as artistic as it was excellent.
+Under the arcade, just inside the double arch, a broad flight of stone
+steps led up to the heavy oak doors opening into the wide hall on the
+main floor. This hall was remarkable for its unusual size; it was thirty
+feet wide and of a proportionate height, fifteen feet from floor to
+ceiling. In connection with a cross hall twenty feet in width, it served
+to divide the entire space on this floor--one hundred and sixty feet by
+ninety--into four very large rooms; the two parlors, the library, and
+the dining room: each one thirty feet in width by seventy feet in
+length, with fifteen foot ceilings.
+
+The grand proportions of these magnificent rooms and stately halls,
+excited universal admiration; they impressed the beholder with a
+dominant idea of the spacious luxury which marked the interior
+appointments of Fenwick Hall. In the center of the main hall, thirty
+feet from the front entrance, began the flight of the grand stairway.
+The general design of this stairway was boldly unique. It was in harmony
+with the scale of magnificence which characterized the halls and
+parlors. In three long flights of twenty-five steps each, it rose to the
+fourth floor. Counting the fifteen-foot landings on the second and third
+floors, it was practically one structure with a generous breadth of
+fifteen feet. It was built of the same material--American mahogany--with
+casings, cornices, banisters and newels of the same pattern and finish,
+all highly polished and rich with ornamental carving. The beautiful
+color effects of the polished mahogany, were brought out more vividly by
+the pale neutral tint of the heavy velvet carpet, which covered the
+stairs and landings. As an illustration of the great space occupied by
+this grand stairway of such ideal proportions, each one of its
+seventy-five broad steps would afford a comfortable seat for eight
+persons--a goodly company of six hundred, all told. This royal trinity
+of stairways ranked as the distinguishing feature of the mansion. They
+gave it an air of stately elegance, tempered with the glow and warmth of
+a generous hospitality.
+
+The halls on the second and third floors were counterparts of the main
+hall in size and style. The hall on the fourth floor was fifty feet wide
+by one hundred and sixty feet long. It was arranged to be used as a ball
+room, or for concerts, lectures, operas and theatricals. For such
+events, it would comfortably seat an audience of one thousand people.
+The roomy stage was furnished with the latest and most approved
+appliances; it was also equipped with a remarkable series of twelve drop
+curtains for the lectures. Number one of the series, was a twelve by
+twenty-four foot map of the United States, including Alaska, Hawaii,
+Porto Rico and other territorial possessions. This map was accurately
+drawn to a large scale, it was artistically colored and marked in such a
+way as to show at a glance the boundaries of original territory; the
+ceded territory, the date of cession, and from whom acquired; the
+dividing lines between states and between counties; the location of all
+cities and towns having a population of one thousand or over; the
+principal state and county roads, all railroads, lakes, rivers,
+mountains, public parks, valuable forests, arid lands, irrigable lands,
+mineral deposits; all noted mines of coal, iron, gold, silver, copper,
+etc., together with a great variety of important items: all of which
+proved exceedingly valuable as an added means by which to illustrate in
+an interesting and comprehensive way, lectures on geographical,
+geological and historical subjects, together with lectures on the
+natural wealth and resources of our country; its manufacturing, mining,
+commercial and agricultural interests, with a great number of kindred
+topics as well. The second curtain was uniform in size with the first
+and with the entire series. On the same large scale, it gave a
+magnificent illustration of the solar system. The background was a pale
+bluish gray. The sun appeared as the central figure, surrounded by the
+planets in their orbits, carefully drawn as to comparative size and
+position. The whole map was colored with exquisite taste in perfect
+harmony with the beautiful sky effects of the background. The skillful
+work of the map maker proved especially strong in furnishing a lesson of
+wholesome humility for the over-proud denizens of the little planet
+Earth who, puffed up with much vanity, have for ages proclaimed the
+Earth as the pivotal center of all creation. The third curtain was
+simply a heavy, plain white one, perfectly fitted for the display of
+stereopticon views, and more especially for the moving panoramic views
+of the kinetescope, the vitascope and the biograph, which have proved
+such attractive and entertaining aids to the general lecturer, dealing
+with any special subject capable of such profuse illustration. The
+remaining nine curtains were devoted to outline maps of the world, and
+to illustrated object-lessons in the most important and interesting
+departments of nature.
+
+The side walls of this remarkable hall were wainscoted in polished hard
+wood, for a distance of five feet above the floor: the remaining wall
+space was divided into large ornamental panels, with beautifully
+scrolled historical borders. In these panels were painted, one in each,
+large maps of the States and Territories, which were drawn to uniform
+scale, minutely accurate, with every post office, post road, wagon road
+or cycle path plainly marked. In addition, at least twice the number of
+details usual to large maps showing counties and townships, were
+carefully noted. The effect of this unique educational system of
+ornamentation was as interesting as it was fascinating. In harmony with
+this idea, the entire length of the broad ceiling overhead was painted a
+pale blue; it was divided into two large panels with ornate borders;
+each panel was dotted with stars and planets in such a methodical way as
+to form a complete astronomical map of the visible heavens, both
+northern and southern hemispheres. This, with several of the large drop
+curtains, served as adjuncts to the well equipped observatory which was
+located in one of the large towers at the rear of the mansion.
+
+On the main floor, on each side of the front hall, were the two grand
+parlors, whose exact dimensions have been stated heretofore. They were
+carpeted and furnished with all the art and luxury that skill could
+devise, or wealth could procure. Two wide archways of Moorish style and
+majestic proportions, opened from each parlor into the main hall. The
+chief adornments which marked these fine parlors as unapproachably
+superb, were two immense mirrors, alike in every way, mounted in heavy
+frames, rich with leaf gold. They occupied the entire wall space at the
+rear end of these enchanting saloons of artistic luxury. When
+distinguished groups of brave men and beautiful women were assembled
+here, the magical effect of these mirrors in reproducing the brilliant
+company as one magnificently framed panoramic picture, was ever the
+source of perpetual admiration and delight. On such occasions the
+thirty feet of the main hall in front of the stairway, served as the
+third or reception parlor. The grand stairway shone resplendent as one
+magnificent centerpiece of loveliness. Up the long flight on either
+side, it was banked by a wealth of potted flowers, ferns and palms,
+festooned with wreaths of lovely smilax. Just in front of this unrivaled
+background of beauty, standing alone upon the movable reception
+platform, which was merely a small circular extension of the first step
+of the grand stairway, the charming young hostess of Fenwick Hall, with
+the grace and courtesy of a born princess, gave a greeting of welcome to
+her delighted guests, or dismissed them with a gracious smile as they
+entered or retired.
+
+The library, in the rear of the parlor at the left of the main hall and
+separated from it by the cross hall, was an exceedingly imposing and
+attractive room. With its quiet array of costly appointments, it seemed
+to possess some hidden charm. Its mahogany shelves were laden with a
+rare collection of choice books, elegantly bound, skillfully arranged
+and classified. The assortment of scientific books was a remarkably
+large one. Marble statues, and exquisitely painted portraits of a host
+of famous authors and artists, whose works had enriched the literature
+of the world, fittingly adorned this ideal realm of drowsy quiet, where
+both lore and luxury reigned supreme.
+
+The dining room was uniform in size with the parlors and the library.
+Its walls and ceiling were frescoed with groups of graceful figures,
+which represented the merry sprites of pleasure in carnivals of
+feasting, song and dancing. Each figure was a carefully studied type of
+beauty; each group a perfect expression of grace and gaiety. Studied
+singly or as parts of the entire composition, they were exquisite as
+works of art, charming the attention of the beholder with a bewildering
+fascination. The floor was one vast mosaic of superbly colored tiles.
+The heavy mahogany tables and sideboards were glittering with their
+costly equipments of shining silver, sparkling cut glass, and rare,
+translucent china. Large oval mirrors in heavy carved frames, duplicated
+the lovely adornments of this brilliant room from a dozen points of
+vantage. The dazzling effect of this home of the feast, was intensified
+by cascades of light from the two unrivaled chandeliers. They supported
+a great number of slender bulbs containing the electric lights, which
+were arranged in the form of a mass of drooping fern leaves, rising like
+a pyramid of soft radiance, into the perfect shape of two superb
+fountains. Tiny streams of short prisms, clear, flashing, crystal,
+pendant and vibrating, formed the tip of each fern leaf. This skillful
+combination seemed to complete the startling illusion of this rare
+vision of loveliness, until one could almost hear the musical tinkle of
+falling water.
+
+The three halls on the main, second and third floors, were really
+galleries of art "par excellence," they were so profusely adorned with
+choice collections of photographs, etchings, water colors, paintings and
+statuary. On entering the main hall, two very large paintings of
+extraordinary significance and rare merit claimed instant admiration.
+Companion pictures, each with a canopy and background of crossed
+American flags, from whose voluminous folds shone the blazing glory of
+color in the matchless beauty of the stars and stripes. In each picture
+under these flags, the dominant spirit of the republic breathed in the
+noble figures so exquisitely painted; typifying in the one on the right,
+the Goddess of Liberty watching over the destiny of the republic. In the
+one on the left, Liberty with her torch lighting the world. So perfectly
+did the painter's art portray the "Spirit of '76," that a new tide of
+patriotic devotion to the republic and its glorious flag, swelled the
+hearts of all who saw these justly famous pictures.
+
+The well lighted, well ventilated rooms in the basement were used as
+store rooms, a suitable number being set apart for the servants, as
+dressing rooms, dining room and sitting room. In a large bay window
+extension at the rear of the main hall, a sumptuously furnished elevator
+connected the basement with all of the halls, the roof and the towers.
+The rooms on the second and third floors were arranged in suites of
+three: reception, sleeping and bath. In size, fittings and furnishings,
+they were models of comfort and luxury.
+
+The four octagonal tower rooms were uniformly twenty-five feet in
+diameter, with lofty dome ceilings. The right front tower was occupied
+by Fern Fenwick as her private study and work room. It was fitted and
+furnished much the same as the library. The left front tower was
+arranged as a seance room for spiritual manifestations, and more
+especially for the different phases of mediumship possessed by Mrs.
+Bainbridge, including materialization. As before stated, the right hand
+tower at the rear was perfectly equipped as an observatory, while the
+rooms under it were devoted to the demonstration of kindred sciences.
+The left tower at the rear was furnished and arranged as a laboratory.
+The rooms under it were set apart for experiment and demonstrations in
+chemistry, metallurgy, photography and several other sciences of like
+nature.
+
+An able corps of carefully trained servants, under the direction of Mrs.
+Bainbridge, the housekeeper, made it easy to keep this remarkable
+establishment in perfect order. One and all, these model servants were
+devoted to their lovely young mistress, and this devotion was based on
+their keen appreciation of her noble ideas in regard to the true purpose
+of human life, to her high estimation of its sacredness. They were eager
+to serve her faithfully and well for less than ordinary wages, contented
+and confident in the knowledge that, in accordance with her clear sense
+of justice, they were sure of being retired on half pay after having
+reached the age of fifty-five. This brief description of the exterior
+and interior of Fenwick Hall, its equipment, its lovely mistress and its
+people, will but faintly suggest its extraordinary possibilities as a
+potent factor in the upper circles of Washington life. Almost three
+years have passed since the transition of Fennimore Fenwick, which left
+his only daughter, Fern Fenwick, as the sole heir to his vast wealth.
+With the exception of three months each summer, spent at Fairy Fern
+Cottage, or some mountain resort near it, she had remained quietly at
+Fenwick Hall, busily engaged in rebuilding and refitting it. Meanwhile
+under the instruction of able teachers, she had been hard at work in
+efforts to supplement her excellent collegiate education with a better
+knowledge of history and by a more complete mastery of the subtle
+secrets of the higher sciences, as exponents of the powers, properties
+and purposes of the inherent forces belonging to the various
+departments of Nature's vast domain.
+
+After much deliberation she had undertaken this work to enable her to
+wisely prepare and plan for a life work in harmony with her lofty ideas
+on the subject--ideas which had been slowly ripening in her mind for
+many months. Having passed the ordeal of this severe post graduate
+course of general study, she felt herself prepared to commence the work
+contemplated by her general plan, which embraced a skillful use of the
+great educational and social advantages of Fenwick Hall, in her
+endeavors to bring to the leading minds of the political and social
+circles of Washington a clear conception of the importance and
+significance of the real purpose of human life; with a view to reforming
+ethical, social, industrial and political organizations on the true
+basis of the unselfishness of the individual for the advancement of the
+race; thus bringing these organizations into exact and co-operative
+harmony with the object and purpose of the existence of the planet.
+Systems so organized, would then be in line with a true conception of
+the functions of an ideal republic--a government for the people, of the
+people and by the people; conducted for the benefit, protection and
+development of all the people. With the world organized into families of
+such republics, the advent of the millennium could be predicted, and the
+advancement of the race to the point of perfection would be insured.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA.
+
+
+From a careful review of her historical studies, Fern Fenwick came to
+the conclusion that the competitive system was responsible for a
+majority of the evils which had so retarded the world's progress. She
+discovered that this same system was the father of a conscienceless
+commercial spirit which had existed for many centuries as the basis of
+all social organization. That as such, it was a constant menace to all
+good society; the embodiment of a cruel selfishness of a savage type,
+which insisted that might makes right--that the strong should thrive by
+preying upon the weak. In this position it boldly denied the immortality
+of the soul, so far as the weaker workers were concerned. Therefore the
+cheap lives of these poor people had no claim to be considered as
+sacred, because they represented so many human souls. In the absence of
+any practical or effective protest from the religions of the world, this
+monstrous system of selfishness had in all these years, grown unchecked
+and unmolested in its methods of cruel greed. From the shadows and gloom
+of these threatening conditions, existing so manifestly in direct
+violation of all progressive law, came a demand that the negative belief
+in the immortality of the soul, be speedily replaced by a positive
+knowledge of it. A knowledge sustained and supported by practical
+demonstrations, through the action of natural law, whose manifestations
+and demonstrations should be so direct and indisputable as to appeal
+convincingly to the hard headed thinkers, who as a class, seemed to
+represent a materialistic element that threatened to overthrow all
+belief in immortality.
+
+In answer to this demand, about the beginning of the last half of the
+nineteenth century, there happened an event of the utmost importance,
+potent with promise for the mighty spiritual unfoldment and general
+advancement of the people of the twentieth century.
+
+In the humble home of the Fox family, at the little village of
+Hydesville, near Rochester, New York, by the co-operative efforts of
+mortals and spirits, there was constructed and established a line of
+communication between the two worlds--the mortal and the spiritual. Two
+little children, the Fox girls, were the mediums, a combination of
+operator and electric battery--or, in other words the necessary
+instruments for successful spiritual telegraphy. In this obscure home of
+the poor and lowly, in a quiet way, unheralded and unannounced, there
+came to the world a knowledge of the existence of one of nature's
+grandest laws, the law of mediumship; thereafter the way was open, on
+the physical plane of existence, for an unlimited series of practical
+demonstrations of the immortality of the human soul: the continuity of
+conscious life was substantiated by an endless variety of proofs of the
+most convincing character.
+
+With this solution, of the destiny of the human soul as an immortal and
+imperishable entity, came the solid ground on which to build a permanent
+foundation for a social and industrial organization, on a basis of
+unselfish, harmonious co-operation in perfect accord with planetary
+evolution, and the real object and purpose of human life.
+
+This strong combination of the working factors of the problem,
+suggested to the mind of Fern Fenwick the importance of first attempting
+to interest the minds of the people she wished to control, in the
+question of immortality as a natural fact that followed the dual nature
+of all human life, as a result of planetary evolution. Once interested,
+she could then convince them of the immortality of the soul, as a
+conscious, imperishable entity, by practical demonstrations through the
+law of mediumship.
+
+These demonstrations would make it clear to them that life on the
+physical plane of existence is transitory and ephemeral; somewhat in the
+nature of a very brief period of primary experiences; that life on the
+spiritual plane of existence is permanent and enduring; that therefore
+the pathway of progress for the human soul must be almost entirely
+within the realms of the world of spirit; that this great truth should
+have careful consideration when dealing with questions affecting human
+lives; that the dominant immortal spirit of the dual individual
+possesses a corporeal body, or mortal form, as a crude outward
+expression of the indwelling spirit in its earthly existence; that this
+mortal form enfolds all the possibilities of a life of eternal
+progression for the Ego or spirit as a conscious identity on the
+spiritual plane of existence; that the change called death is a natural
+one, to be approached calmly without a fear; that it is really a new
+birth, which does not disturb the continuity of life.
+
+Once convinced of the verity of these great truths, all lovers of
+humanity, all progressive people, all earnest thinkers, would readily
+understand and appreciate the sacredness of human life, as the flower
+and fruit of the planet--its highest expression; they would then be
+prepared to co-operate with any progressive movement for the
+advancement of the race.
+
+To make the necessary conditions for the accomplishment of this great
+work was the grand purpose of Fern Fenwick's Washington life. With this
+purpose in view, Fenwick Hall had been especially fitted and equipped.
+For this she had cultivated a large circle of acquaintances among the
+fashionable leaders of the best society of the Capital City. Caring but
+little for the ceaseless round of soul-wearying social functions which
+so completely absorbed these people; yet filled with a determination to
+win them to a higher life, she bore herself bravely through the season
+which proved one long procession of social triumphs. Inspired by the
+intensity of a grand purpose; endowed with a clear, musical voice,
+perfect health, youth and beauty, combined with a charmingly
+irresistible personal magnetism; armed with the quiet dignity of
+perfect self-control, and the genius of her brilliant mind, so broadly
+cultured; an adept in psychic lore; an entertaining and eloquent
+conversationalist, our heroine created a profound sensation in the most
+select circles of the social world. Everywhere she was the center of
+attraction, surrounded by admiring throngs of cultured people,
+representing wealth and leisure, who hastened to pay homage to her as a
+Twentieth Century society goddess, whose wand of magic controlled
+millions of money. In the homes of the exclusive few, she was hailed as
+a thrice welcome guest; celebrities, ranking high as statesmen,
+soldiers, poets, artists, authors, representative professional men and
+leading men of business, were completely charmed and curiously
+fascinated by this new queen of the social realm, and vied with each
+other in eager efforts to win her favor and perhaps her friendship, in
+the hope of gaining admittance to the very limited circle of fortunate
+people who were the recipients of invitations to the famous dinners,
+receptions and entertainments at Fenwick Hall. These people
+instinctively felt the attractive power of some silent, mysterious
+force, some high motive, which, combined with dazzling beauty and
+brilliant genius, drew them to her side, without the wish or power to
+resist.
+
+This phenomenal wave of popularity continued to increase until a choice
+of the best people in every branch of the social world, was at the
+command of this new leader of the exclusive set; they were ready to
+assist in carrying forward any progressive movement she might choose, by
+her championship to make the fashion. However, this universal
+willingness to follow her leadership, seemed based on a firm conviction
+in some way unconsciously established in the minds of her devotees, that
+all of Fern Fenwick's plans and purposes were for the good of humanity,
+wisely guided by a skill and judgment most remarkably rare--apparently
+far beyond her years! The whole situation was a complex problem they
+could not analyze: they did not even try!
+
+With the advent of modern spiritualism in 1848, came the first
+opportunity to bring woman forward as a teacher and leader in the great
+work of elevating and spiritualizing the masses. As a heritage from her
+sister oracles, who spake in the mystic temples of the ancient past, the
+modern woman was endowed with the divinity of a rarely sensitive and
+highly refined spiritual organization. By virtue of this endowment, she
+speedily demonstrated her peculiar fitness for this new mission. Her
+eloquence and inspiration charmed the multitude from a thousand
+rostrums. Her work in this new field was so startlingly brilliant,
+important and successful as to attract the attention of the whole
+civilized world; affording a remarkable object lesson which demonstrated
+her possession, as the mouth-piece of inspiration, of a wonderful
+magnetic power to sway the people; to enthuse, interest and educate them
+up to higher mental, moral and spiritual conditions; by making them
+aware of the vast import of the true purpose of human life; by helping
+them to realize to a limited degree, the significance of immortality,
+their individual responsibility in relation to the universe, as
+important factors in the evolutionary advancement of the race toward the
+millennium of its final destiny.
+
+These inspired teachings touched a responsive chord in the hearts of all
+womankind as they began, dimly at first, to perceive the all-pervading
+force and rythm of the dominant key-note to the evolution of the race,
+which in thunder tones ever proclaims the mighty truth, that all
+progress of the race depends entirely upon the elevation, education and
+refinement achieved by woman. They also began to understand something of
+the glorious possibilities of a perfected womanhood, as a regenerator of
+mankind. A magnificent array of future victories for woman's work loomed
+up before them as a command to awake; to prepare for the coming dawn of
+the twentieth century--the beginning of a new cycle in the life of the
+planet; the commencement of woman's golden era! To woman the command was
+imperative that she must strive for more wisdom, for more light on her
+holy mission as the evangel of evolving life; that she might reach a
+higher consciousness of her individual responsibility as the keeper and
+guardian of the sacred temple of human life--a temple in which is ever
+repeated the evolution, ontogeny, and phylogeny of the race; where, by
+this most mysteriously beautiful of all processes, there is constantly
+being welded together the planetary growth, physical, mental and
+psychical experiences of ages upon ages in the past; with the higher,
+purer, better and more spiritual possibilities of the race in its
+planetary progress for uncounted ages yet to come.
+
+From this general awakening there followed--for the purpose of securing
+that practical education of training, which actual contact and
+individual experience alone can confer--a vigorous effort on the part of
+the brightest and most progressive women of the Nineteenth Century, to
+enter, singly and as organizations, into all the activities of life.
+Hampered by the blinding prejudice of a long line of centuries; many of
+these earlier organizations, as might have been foreseen, were
+unsparingly criticised as exhibitions of ill-directed foolishness,
+altogether crude, unprogressive and unsatisfactory. Nevertheless, the
+dominant spirit of courageous and persistent effort, combined with high
+purpose and pure motive, soon won the approval of the better classes and
+accomplished a marked improvement in both work and method. This rapid
+improvement pointed unerringly to future achievement of that success
+shown in the conditions which prevailed at the close of the century,
+whereby woman was very generally recognized as a necessary and
+successful co-worker in all the suitable employments of life.
+
+Fern Fenwick, in full sympathy with the movement, was alive to the
+demands of the situation. With the purpose of concentrating the efforts
+of all the women's organizations which held their annual conventions in
+Washington, into one channel, leading to perfect motherhood, as the
+result of woman's social and financial independence; she identified
+herself with them as a generous contributor. Soon she became the friend
+and trusted adviser of all of the leaders. She placed Fenwick Hall at
+their disposal, for use as a general headquarters. In this way, a wise
+direction of the combined women's movement into a united work along
+lines in harmony with planetary evolution for the perfection of the
+race, became an integral part of Fern Fenwick's broad plan for a life
+work.
+
+By the end of Fillmore Flagg's first year at Solaris Farm, Fern Fenwick
+had matured her plans for her own peculiar work. Much to her
+satisfaction, the necessary conditions had been created, the whole
+movement organized and well in hand. Fillmore's work for the education
+and elevation of the agricultural classes, had given her energy and
+inspiration to accomplish a similar and co-operative work among people
+of wealth and leisure, who, ignorant of the true object and purpose of
+life, were unwittingly wasting precious years in leading indolent and
+aimless lives, by lending themselves body and soul to the care and
+canker of the fashionable game of killing time. One year's experience
+had taught her that the task was a difficult one, to accomplish which
+required time, patience and perseverance, reinforced by courage, skill
+and tact.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+HIS WOOING PROSPERS WHILE OUR HERO ENJOYS HIS FIRST VACATION.
+
+
+Fern Fenwick's interest in the experimental farm was intense. She read
+with eagerness the weekly reports from Fillmore Flagg, which were
+accompanied by such charmingly ardent love letters. She was very proud
+of the success he had achieved in two short years. She blushed as she
+thought how dear to her he had become in those busy months which swiftly
+passed. How much she should miss him and his fascinating love letters,
+if by evil chance anything should happen to take him away from her! She
+could not contemplate such a possibility without a shudder. Now that her
+studies were finished and her plans perfected, why not send for him to
+come to Fenwick Hall for a week's vacation? He had certainly earned the
+privilege which he would prize so much. The opportunity to personally
+compare notes and exchange suggestions would no doubt prove helpful to
+the farm work and to her own. She longed for the confidential
+companionship of some one who was in perfect sympathy with her, who
+could understand her work, and appreciate her motives in carrying it
+forward; some one who would be able to advise her wisely and
+unselfishly; one in whom she had implicit confidence. Who so capable and
+so desirable as Fillmore Flagg? Acting on the impulse of the moment, she
+wrote the letter directing him to come at once.
+
+To Fillmore Flagg, the summons to Washington proved as welcome as it
+was unexpected. He came at the earliest possible moment. The hope of
+again meeting the noblest, sweetest, and dearest woman in the world for
+him, his heart's idol; of again being permitted to look long and
+lovingly into her gloriously beautiful eyes, stirred his emotional
+nature intensely, and fired his throbbing pulse with the fever of
+impatient expectancy. The beautiful words of the poet Dennison, in his
+"Night Ride of a Lover," were ever in his mind and on his lips. Over and
+over again he murmured:
+
+
+     "Though fleet as an arrow he flies,
+     Though sundering space swiftly dies,
+       My heart cries 'Oh haste!
+       All time is a waste
+     'Till I drink of her soul at her eyes!'"
+
+
+The speediest express train seemed a laggard, left far behind in the
+race of the journey by his swift desire, which kept pace with the
+telegram announcing his departure from Solaris and the probable time of
+his arrival in Washington. At length his heart was made glad by a
+distant glimpse of the dome of the Capitol, which seemed to give him a
+welcome greeting as it marked his approach to the great city. He found
+Fern Fenwick's carriage, with Mrs. Bainbridge waiting for him at the
+depot. Half an hour later he was shown into the library at Fenwick Hall,
+where in radiant beauty his blushing sweetheart gave him a royal
+welcome.
+
+As he approached her, with shining eyes and face aglow, soul and body
+radiant with the grace and adoration of his all-absorbing love, the
+heroic order of his manly beauty thrilled the heart of Fern Fenwick with
+its irresistible charm. The kisses claimed by a lover's privilege, she
+was powerless to deny. Nay! she did not try to hide the shining light
+of a great happiness from the adoring eyes of such a noble lover, whose
+magnetic presence stilled the tumult of her fluttering heart with the
+ecstatic calm of a measureless content; that unmistakable signature of
+sanction, that crowning seal of nature's approval which greets the
+meeting of kindred souls, who, mated in the warp and woof of the web of
+destiny, in the flashing flight of Cupid's dart, become the harmoniously
+united halves of a perfect whole.
+
+Ah, thrice happy, thrice blessed, thrice crowned lovers! How swiftly
+passed those golden hours, as hand in hand, they sat entranced, with
+soulful eyes in silent communion, dreaming and drifting in the
+cloud-land of love's harvest-moon, in whose silvery mist they lost all
+consciousness of the existence in this world of aught else beside
+themselves!
+
+The next morning after his arrival at Fenwick Hall, Fillmore Flagg
+having breakfasted with Fern Fenwick and Mrs. Bainbridge, accompanied
+the former to her work room in the tower. Here, as had been arranged on
+the previous evening, she gave him a complete account of her work in
+Washington, since the transition of her father. She also gave the
+details of her general plan for enlarging the scope of the work to
+include the women's movement and of directing the combined work in such
+a way as to become an aid to the work of the model farm.
+
+"My dear Fillmore," said Fern, "How are you impressed by my scheme for
+carrying out the chosen plans? Can you suggest anything that may be of
+assistance to me?"
+
+"Your scheme," replied Fillmore Flagg, "is a glorious one which promises
+to start a revolution in the aristocratic circles of society. It
+impresses me profoundly, as a deep laid plot, cunning and strong, which
+must accomplish a vast amount of good for the interests of humanity. So
+deep, so broad and so vast are its possibilities, that a week devoted to
+study and reflection would but poorly prepare me to understand its
+significance or perfection as a whole, much less to pronounce judgment
+upon it. But at this moment, of one thing I feel sure--that the noble
+purpose which has inspired your skill and genius in the construction of
+this remarkable plan, which deals so effectively and practically with
+human life as the result of planetary evolution, will prove a sure guide
+to success. The plan itself, in all of its details, is already so
+perfect, in my estimation, as to leave nothing for me to suggest by way
+of improvement. It is characteristic of you and of your capacity for
+brilliant work! I am, more than ever before, amazed at this exhibition
+of your intellectual greatness, which demonstrates your power to think
+so deeply and plan so wisely. I am very proud of you! I am especially
+grateful for this opportunity to burn incense as a worshipper at the
+shrine of your genius! You ask to what extent will the work affect the
+destiny of woman? I answer, its possibilities in that direction are
+limitless! They are beyond the power of any living mortal to comprehend!
+With woman surrounded by such conditions of financial independence, and
+such harmonious environments as will permit her to devote the best
+energies of her soul to the perfection of the highest type of
+motherhood, there will come a solution of the problem of how best to
+accomplish the perfection of the race. Surely, generations far in the
+future shall rise up to call you blessed! Dearest, best and noblest of
+women! Go forward bravely without a fear for the result. Undoubtedly
+your plan possesses all the elements of success. With the talisman of
+your goodness and beauty as the moving force, you cannot fail. Whatever
+I am capable of doing to assist you, I shall do gladly, with all my
+heart and strength."
+
+"Thank you, my dear Fillmore," said Fern, "your words of assurance and
+approval, so beautifully expressed, have appealed potently to all that
+is good and spiritual in my nature. They have inspired me to better and
+nobler deeds. They are very grateful to me and I prize them highly.
+
+"Now that you are so much interested, I feel sure you will be able to
+help me in thinking out some problems which puzzle me. For instance:
+From among the people I have interested, I wish to select and
+concentrate the dominant thinkers and workers of both sexes and from all
+classes, into some kind of a club organization, for the purpose of still
+further perfecting the efficiency of organized co-operative effort.
+Question: Shall this society take the form of a club? If so, what name
+shall I choose for it? In its formation what method shall I use? Can you
+evolve anything from your inner consciousness in answer to these
+questions?"
+
+Absorbed in the intensity and earnestness of her questioning spirit,
+Fern Fenwick left her chair and as her interrogatories came to an end,
+she stood by the side of Fillmore Flagg, looking straight into his eyes
+with such a penetrating, magnetic glance, that for some moments he was
+unable to reply. With his beautiful curl-crowned head thrown back to
+meet and return her entrancing gaze, he breathed but slowly and for the
+moment seemed rigid as a man of marble; a far-off, dreamy look shone
+from his half closed eyes. Presently, with a long sigh, speaking very
+slowly and softly, he said: "Ah! Miss Fenwick, I think I see what you
+are reaching out for. Your idea is coming to me now quite clearly." Then
+with returning animation he continued: "Yes, I grasp the idea; it is
+capital! I believe I can help you. I would suggest the use of the club
+formation without using the word 'club' in its title. I would call it
+'The Twentieth Century Cosmos.' I would choose for its badge of
+membership a small silver fern leaf, crossed by a large gold key. I
+would advise that you alone, as the founder and sole director of the
+club, should have the power to select the members, and to decorate them
+with the badge of membership. To be in harmony with the century idea,
+the number of members should be limited to one hundred. All meetings of
+the club should be held in suitable rooms at Fenwick Hall; these rooms
+should be known as Cosmos Court. Admittance to each meeting should be
+gained by the presentation at the door, of an invitation, printed on
+club paper, bearing the name of the member, giving the date and stating
+the object of the meeting, all duly attested by your written signature
+as director.
+
+"The object and purpose of the existence of the club may be stated as
+follows: That its membership may secure, by the harmonious association
+of properly qualified minds,--which shall represent the dominant
+thinkers in all departments of knowledge--a higher, broader conception
+of the possibilities and purposes of life; as the necessary basis which
+shall make it possible to acquire a larger store of cosmic wisdom, by
+the use of systematic methods of co-operative research, study and
+thought.
+
+"This system of formation for a club would certainly be unique. I
+believe it will prove to be especially well fitted for the
+accomplishment of your peculiar work. Does the plan proposed meet your
+approval by offering satisfactory answers to your questions?"
+
+"Oh! my dear Fillmore," said Fern, "what a darling, clever boy you are,
+to be sure! Now it is my turn to praise your wisdom and your genius. I
+think your plan is an excellent one, which will suit the exigencies of
+my purpose most admirably. Before you return to Solaris we will consider
+the details more at length. Now let us change the subject.
+
+"In keeping you so long at my work, how selfish and thoughtless I have
+been! I shall try to make amends! I have planned to make your brief
+visit as pleasant as possible. To-day I must show you over the house and
+grounds. In the afternoon we shall take a long drive which will give you
+a glimpse of the beautiful streets, buildings, parks and monuments of
+our lovely city. Each afternoon these drives are to be repeated, until
+you are familiar with the great possibilities of this city of destiny,
+this priceless gift--the perpetual home of the government of the
+nation--from General George Washington, who is forever enshrined in the
+hearts of the people as the founder of the republic, the father of his
+country! When you return to our farm people, I wish you to be able to
+impress them with the matchless beauty, vastness and importance of the
+City of Washington, the political center of this unrivaled republic. It
+is my great desire to have them always think of it and speak of it with
+love and pride, with feelings of individual proprietary interest, as
+they realize that they are important factors, as voters and working
+units of the government, in the great work of shaping its destiny.
+
+"As you are the guest of honor at Fenwick Hall, I am going to do my
+best to make you, for one week, the happiest man in town! The evenings
+are to be devoted to the theatre, the opera, and to various society
+events at Fenwick Hall, arranged for your especial benefit and
+edification."
+
+"My dear Fern," said Fillmore, "How good and kind you are! To be near
+you, to hear your voice, to look into your beautiful eyes; is paradise
+for me! A week so full of happiness, I shall cherish as the one week of
+a lifetime! As to these society events of which you speak, I shall be
+jealous of each moment so devoted which shall take you from my side.
+Pray then, my good angel, do make such moments as short as possible!"
+
+"Rest assured, my knight of the farm, you shall have no cause to
+complain," said Fern, with a saucy smile as she laid her hand
+caressingly on his arm. "You are to come with me, prepared to look and
+listen, while I show you the beauties of my Washington home!"
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+As the "Saint Louis Express" left the Washington station, westward
+bound, Fillmore Flagg caught a final glimpse of Fern Fenwick, as with
+characteristic grace and enthusiasm she continued to wave a parting
+salute with her dainty lace handkerchief, until the train had vanished
+around the curve. With a sigh he returned to his seat to muse over the
+events of the week which had passed so sweetly yet so very swiftly for
+him.
+
+Yes, Fern had kept her pledge up to the last moment. As the guest of
+honor at Fenwick Hall, she as hostess, in all the graciousness of her
+bewitching beauty, marked by such charming tenderness, had made him
+conscious each day that he was indeed the happiest man in town. He now
+returned to Solaris with renewed courage and enthusiasm, to prepare for
+the celebration at the farm of the coming arbor-day festival, which Fern
+had promised to attend. As this celebration was to mark her first visit
+to Solaris Farm, he wished most ardently to have it prove a great
+success.
+
+The events of the past week had been a revelation to Fillmore Flagg: a
+host of new attributes to the noble character of Fern Fenwick had shone
+forth and dazzled him by their unexpected brilliancy. He began to
+realize what a wonderful woman she was in this new role, as the queen of
+the select set in the aristocratic circles of Washington society.
+
+Her strange power to mold the minds of these people; to make them strive
+for the accomplishment of social and industrial reforms, which meant the
+redemption of the masses, impressed him most profoundly. By what
+remarkable process had she, in so short a time, achieved such commanding
+heights of intellectual and spiritual greatness? Heights, where by
+operating from the vantage ground of the social and political center of
+the republic, like some chief marshal on the broad field of human
+events, she could, by the unseen and irresistible power of hypnotic
+suggestion, inspire, guide and control the causative and law-making
+forces which so powerfully affect all social and industrial conditions.
+Was it possible that spiritual unfoldment alone, could confer such
+marvelous power? Apparently in response to the intensity of his
+question, came the reply:
+
+"When a person representing combined physical, intellectual and
+spiritual unfoldment, is inspired by a noble, unselfish desire to
+accomplish a great good for all human life, by the use of methods that
+are in conjunctive harmony with the evolutionary progress of the planet:
+then such a desire acquires an irresistible force. Naught can prevail
+against it! In compliance with the demands of a wise cosmic law, it has
+received the omnistic seal of nature's approval."
+
+The clearness and wisdom of this unexpected reply, appealed strongly to
+the reason of Fillmore Flagg. Profoundly moved, yet outwardly calm, he
+perceived at once that the truth of the statement was absolute! In the
+new light of this remarkable revelation, he wished to carefully examine
+the claim of the model co-operative farm to the seal of nature's
+approval. Were the desires, the ideas and the methods in conjunctive
+harmony with planetary evolution? Apparently they were! That the success
+of the model farm meant the elevation and future happiness of humanity,
+was true beyond question. Equally so was the intensity and unselfishness
+of the desire which had inspired his action and the acts of Fennimore
+Fenwick and his daughter, Fern. Surely then, the project bore the
+unmistakable stamp of approval which foretold success! It could not
+fail! It must succeed! It was irresistible and invincible!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+A SURPRISE PARTY AND RECEPTION COMBINED.
+
+
+As the train approached the station at Solaris, Fillmore, in blissful
+ignorance of coming events, began to prepare himself to leave the coach.
+In response to a letter from George Gerrish, he had wired from St.
+Louis the time of his arrival. As he was stepping from the train to the
+long platform, his hand baggage was seized by trusty hands and quickly
+disappeared. He noted with amazement the gaily decorated station and the
+throng of waiting people. Before he had recovered from his surprise,
+Gertrude Gerrish, evidently striving to assume a very dignified
+deportment, advanced to meet him. As she gave him a hearty welcome, she
+said:
+
+"As the leader of the reception committee, representing the membership
+and children of the Solaris Farm Company, who are gathered here in
+holiday attire, unanimous in a desire to do honor to you; I greet you! I
+welcome you back to Solaris Farm!"
+
+Turning quickly, with a wave of her hand, she said: "People of Solaris,
+three cheers for our General Manager!" At this time, the train having
+departed, the farm people almost covered the platform with two deep
+lines, facing a narrow lane in the center, with heads uncovered,
+prepared and waiting for the signal. The response came instantly in a
+ringing cheer from six hundred well-trained throats: "Hurrah! Hurrah!
+Hurrah for Fillmore Flagg! Welcome! Welcome! Welcome back to Solaris
+Farm!"
+
+Almost before Fillmore was aware of what had really happened, Gertrude
+Gerrish had taken his arm, as with a mysterious smile she said: "I am
+now to escort you to the carriage prepared for your reception. We are
+then to be escorted by the procession to the public square, in front of
+the hall of education and amusement, where the final ceremonies are to
+take place. Of course you are surprised! We have planned for that very
+purpose! So come along now without one word of protest! At the proper
+moment you are to have as much time as you may desire in which to
+relieve your mind. For the present you are to keep quiet and obey me--a
+despotic master of ceremonies whose will is imperative and whose dignity
+is not to be questioned, even for a moment!"
+
+Fillmore Flagg, now obediently dumb, entered into the spirit of the
+occasion. He was very much surprised--nay, well-nigh dazed--yet withal
+delighted, as the happy significance of this unexpected welcome came
+slowly into his mind. With hat in hand, bowing and smiling, arm in arm
+with Gertrude Gerrish, he slowly passed between the long lines of happy
+faces, keeping step with the throbbing measure of the soft sweet music
+discoursed by the band. At regular intervals, groups of gaily dressed
+children waved their pretty flags or playfully pelted him with roses. As
+the twain reached the end of the lines, a novel chariot was waiting: a
+ladder-wagon of the Solaris fire company, drawn by twenty brawny fire
+laddies, was equipped with a broad platform, beautifully draped, bearing
+at each corner a choice selection of fine large potted palms. In the
+center of this platform was a smaller one, raised still higher; on this
+was placed the seat of honor, which was covered by a lovely canopy of
+artistically interwoven ferns and flowers. A broad flight of rough board
+steps, carpeted and decorated, led up to the lofty seat on this unique
+chariot. While our hero and the "Master of Ceremonies" were climbing to
+reach it, the procession quickly formed about the chariot into an
+elongated hollow square, eight ranks deep; the children with their flags
+marching in alternating lines of boys and girls, formed the front of the
+square, while the adults arranged in the same order, formed the sides
+and the rear. Gilbert Gerrish, with the band of musicians, selected by
+him from the ranks of the musical club, was placed in front of the
+square. He was very proud and happy as he flourished his baton and gave
+the signal for the procession to move forward. In this order they
+marched gaily along the broad, tree lined avenue which led from the
+railroad station to the village square. The chariot came to a halt just
+in front of the hall of education and amusement, with the seat of honor
+facing eastward toward the center of the public square. The procession
+quickly reformed into three sides of a square, with the eight ranks
+facing inward.
+
+For a brief period silence reigned. Then at a signal from Gertrude
+Gerrish, as Fillmore Flagg arose with uncovered head and stood by her
+side, the cheers and greetings of welcome were repeated by the ranks
+with redoubled animation and intensity.
+
+At this juncture, George Gerrish came forward to the front of the raised
+platform, while Gertrude, turning to Fillmore, said; "The president of
+the Solaris Farm Company has been chosen by its people to present to you
+a gift which they have selected, as a tribute of their affection and
+also of their devotion to you and to Solaris Farm."
+
+"My esteemed friend and co-worker, Fillmore Flagg," said George Gerrish:
+"As the mouth piece of our people, I am happy to be permitted to join in
+the active work of this reception. The people of Solaris Farm, moved by
+one impulse, inspired by sentiments of sincere friendship and
+enthusiastic loyalty, desire to present for your acceptance, this
+Solaris album, as a testimonial of their loving admiration; as a token
+of their absolute confidence in the wisdom of your leadership. This
+album contains photographs of all the members of the company. Each
+picture is endorsed with the signature and with the place and date of
+birth of the individual. They are arranged and indexed in alphabetical
+order. Our people were guided to a choice of this gift because they were
+so profoundly impressed with the importance of the experiment
+represented by this farm. Because they felt so confident that its
+assured success would sound the key-note of a general movement for the
+emancipation and elevation of humanity by the gradual introduction of
+wiser and better social and industrial methods, which would eventually
+result in the banishment of poverty and crime.
+
+"Taking this view of the future, we may be pardoned for prophesying that
+fifty years hence, this album of the pioneers of the movement, will
+possess a greatly enhanced historical value. We trust, therefore, that
+this possibility may make our gift more acceptable. I now ask you to
+receive it in the spirit of love which inspired its donation. In
+conclusion allow me to assure you that under all circumstances, you can
+count on the life-long friendship and loyalty of the people whose
+pictures will greet you, as the years come and go, whenever you may feel
+inclined to look through the picture laden pages of Solaris Album."
+
+As George Gerrish concluded his speech, a swelling storm of cheers for
+Fillmore Flagg burst from the ranks of the square. Again and again came
+the repeated roar of cheers, accompanied by the roll of the drums, and a
+circling cloud of waving handkerchiefs, hats and flags. Fillmore Flagg,
+inspired by the enthusiasm and excitement of his cherished people,
+looked very handsome and heroic as he stood with his manly figure erect,
+his noble head thrown back, his eyes shining with emotion, the album
+held firmly in his right hand. Bowing and smiling, he turned gracefully
+to face the greetings from the ranks of familiar faces, which were
+swaying with joy and shouting so wildly. Waiting for a few moments, he
+then raised his left hand, with the open palm outward, as a signal for
+silence. The tumult was stilled as if by magic.
+
+"People of Solaris!" he said; his clear, strong voice vibrating with
+emotion: "To you, through your worthy president and your able committee,
+with a grateful heart, I return my thanks for this most unexpected and
+charming reception; for this beautiful and appropriate gift, which I
+prize much more than words can tell. Believe me when I say that I most
+thoroughly appreciate the noble sentiments which inspired its selection.
+I am delighted with the happy significance of this demonstration, as a
+prophecy of the complete success of this experimental farm. This
+exhibition of your loyalty to me and to Solaris Farm, fills my heart
+with emotions of grateful joy. You have made me very proud and very
+happy! I shall never forget the encouragement of your enthusiastic
+support, which has given me renewed vigor and strength to carry forward
+the work. I now pledge to you my sacred word of honor that the golden
+memories of this glorious occasion, and the possession of this precious
+album, shall henceforth inspire me to still greater efforts for the
+success of our cherished enterprise, which means so much for us, so much
+more for humanity.
+
+"I am willing to acknowledge without a moment's hesitation, that your
+surprise for me was skillfully planned; that its execution was
+charmingly successful! I wish to return the compliment. I have a
+surprise in store for you! The present moment is propitious; I will
+disclose it! I am the bearer of a gift for you--a gift wisely chosen,
+which is in every way worthy of your admiration and appreciation. A gift
+of such exceeding value, that I cannot speak of it without becoming
+eloquent. Gold and silver cannot measure its worth to you! Securely
+packed in strong cases, which are now lodged in our express office, is a
+rare collection of books. This collection contains ten complete sets of
+the best text books for each one of the classified sciences, together
+with the vocabularies, dictionaries, charts and drawings belonging
+thereto. Accompanying each set is a miscellaneous collection of the best
+works written descriptively on that particular science. These books are
+intensely interesting and very valuable, although they are not classed
+as text books. Altogether the five hundred volumes form the finest and
+most comprehensive collection of scientific works I have ever seen. They
+are the most useful and expensive books published that can be found in
+the whole range of scientific literature. They contain the knowledge we
+most need in our enterprise, to enable us as an associated body of
+people to do better, wiser and more effective co-operative thinking and
+working.
+
+"To meet and satisfy our needs in this direction, these books were
+chosen as a gift to our library, by Miss Fern Fenwick, the beautiful and
+generous patroness of Solaris Farm. She desires me to emphasize her wish
+that you abstain from any public expression of thanks. In lieu thereof,
+she prefers to accept the measure of your diligence and enthusiasm in
+acquiring the stores of knowledge thus offered, as the most appropriate
+and satisfactory measure of your gratitude to her for the gift.
+
+"To master the contents of these books, is to master the sum of human
+knowledge in the various departments of science. With this mastery there
+will come to us the largest understanding, and the clearest obtainable
+conception of our relations toward each other, and to the universe
+around us. Thus enlightened, we may discover that ignorance is a sin;
+that as responsible entities in the great pulsing sea of cosmic life,
+with more or less power to help or hinder the purpose and perfect
+unfoldment of all life--we cannot afford to be selfish, sinful or cruel
+in our actions toward each other, or toward any other form of cosmic
+life. Having once acquired these convictions, with this most important
+fund of information, we possess the key which will unlock the mystery of
+the action and reaction of the potent and unseen forces of nature, which
+affect us as individuals, as they do the earth, air and water, the
+elements so necessary to our existence. The restless, never-satisfied,
+questioning spirit, born with every human soul, is the expression of a
+divine purpose! To gratify this insatiable desire for more knowledge, is
+to comply with the demands of a wise cosmic law. By so doing, we enter
+into the enjoyment of a never-failing source of perpetual delight. We
+are crowned with a happiness of the purest type!
+
+"In viewing this vast field of knowledge, spread so invitingly before
+us; in anticipating the joy we may glean therefrom; we catch a glimpse
+of the exceeding richness of the boon of immortality, which, as a
+spiritual heritage, is waiting for us. We begin slowly to understand
+ourselves as the repositories of infinite possibilities!--as cosmic
+units of the larger Cosmos--as a perfect microcosm of the macrocosm!
+With feelings of awe-inspiring adoration, we reflect that we may know
+ourselves as individuals, only as the extent of our knowledge of the
+universe around us is increased. Responding to the law of action and
+reaction, the more we reflect, the greater becomes our desire to know
+more of ourselves. Always more! Ever more! Never quite satisfied!
+Fortunately, the immortality of the wisdom loving human soul embraces
+all time, and all eternity! Therefore, through the law of eternal
+progression, we may naturally and rightfully aspire to the acquirement
+of all possible knowledge. In cultivating these aspirations, we may rest
+assured that we shall constantly gain new conceptions and new meanings
+for the word 'Heaven.'
+
+"In conclusion, my friends and co-workers, my brothers and sisters, let
+us congratulate ourselves as the fortunate recipients of this priceless
+gift: let us endeavor to show our appreciation by a speedy mastery of
+the contents of these valuable books. Let us approach the work, full of
+joyful anticipation and enthusiasm, with the proud consciousness that we
+are invited guests to a great feast of learning. Let us strive in every
+way to make study thoroughly enjoyable. Let us make it one long holiday
+in honor of the Goddess of Wisdom! One grand harvest-home of our
+gathering of the golden fruit from the tree of knowledge. Let us be as
+earnest as we are enthusiastic--let us be thorough, and withal
+methodical and systematic.
+
+"The ten sets of text-books, suggest the formation of the membership of
+the company into that number of scientific clubs; which I recommend.
+This division would give fifty adults as the average membership of each
+club. We have at least ten available rooms large enough to accommodate
+clubs of that size. Each club should begin with the primary text-book,
+which should be read, discussed, analyzed and re-read until clearly
+understood by the entire class. The club to proceed in the same order
+with the next of the series, until all are thoroughly mastered. I will
+volunteer to join the club to which is assigned that scientific study
+which may prove the most difficult, least inviting and most unpopular.
+By the force of a united purpose, working co-operatively together, we
+shall soon develop a capacity for severe mental labor, which will make
+the mastery of the remainder of the course a constant source of
+pleasure. What we need in the way of equipment, chemicals, instruments,
+etc., can be easily and quickly secured.
+
+"George and Gertrude Gerrish will have an advisory superintendence over
+the work of all the clubs. Years of experience in teaching have prepared
+them to quickly untangle the mixed quantities or conditions that may
+confront us, and thus skillfully turn our difficulties into delights.
+
+"With this general plan for conducting our literary festival, I will
+leave the subject with you for consideration at the proper time.
+
+"I feel conscious that under the circumstances, I owe you an apology for
+having so trespassed upon your patience and good nature, by the length
+of my remarks. Therefore I desire to acknowledge my thrice doubled
+appreciation of your manifest interest, attention and sympathy, which
+have both flattered and encouraged me greatly.
+
+"I will now close by thanking you, through your worthy officers, for
+this cordial and beautiful reception; also for the opportunity to
+address you on a subject in which I am so deeply interested."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+FORMATION OF POPULAR SCIENCE CLUBS.
+
+
+As the days passed after the reception, the new books were unpacked by
+Fillmore Flagg, assisted by George Gerrish. As soon as possible they
+were arranged and placed on appropriate shelves in each one of the ten
+rooms prepared for them. Large steel engravings in plain oak frames, of
+all the authors, together with the maps and charts, all neatly glazed
+and mounted, adorned the walls of the particular room to which they
+belonged, adding greatly to the attractiveness of the general
+collection. As the work progressed, the keen interest displayed by all
+members of the farm company seemed to increase. They could talk of
+nothing else; they were eagerly and almost impatiently waiting for the
+announcement of the formation of the clubs. Accordingly therefore, as
+soon as the rooms were ready, a complete schedule of the books in each
+series was made; these schedules being numbered from one to ten, to
+indicate the series to which they belonged. They were printed and
+distributed among the members of the company, with a request that one
+week later, each member should return two of the numbered schedules
+marked as first and second choice of the studies they desired to take
+up. By this method of voluntary selection, the clubs were quickly and
+easily formed, without friction or embarassment. Well stimulated by an
+ever increasing fund of interest and enthusiastic ambition, the club
+members, impressed with the wisdom of Fillmore Flagg's advice, promptly
+took up the class work of the study chosen, eager to secure a generous
+share of the educational benefits to be dispensed at the board of this
+great literary feast, to which they had been so kindly invited as
+especially selected guests. With some misgivings as to the final result,
+Fillmore Flagg carefully watched the preliminary club work while yet in
+its organic stage. He had been somewhat doubtful of the ability of the
+average club member, who was not a trained student, to acquire a
+sufficient interest in such abstract subjects, with which to develop the
+mental force so necessary in order to digest and finally master them.
+However, much to his surprise and delight, at the very threshold of the
+work, the display of energy, ability and mental acuteness on the part of
+the entire club membership, dispelled the last remaining doubt from his
+mind; he was convinced of the practicability and final success of the
+course.
+
+In carefully analyzing the subject, he perceived that they were
+quickened by the momentum of a united co-operative effort; also that
+they were--perhaps subconsciously--pushed forward by a great number of
+new ideas concerning the desirability of at once acquiring a larger
+store of scientific lore, as a necessary and more complete equipment for
+the practical duties of the battle of life. Dominant and central among
+these ideas, was the one which so temptingly promised an increased
+knowledge of themselves as individuals, by the mastery of the broad and
+hitherto unexplored field of explanatory science; which might lead to a
+better solution of the mystery of environmental conditions. Finally,
+they were no doubt inspired strongly by a firm conviction that, once
+armed with a thorough scientific education, they would possess an
+additional power to aid in making Solaris Farm a speedier and more
+pronounced success.
+
+Fillmore Flagg accepted this demonstration of the combined ability of
+the farm people to conquer the most difficult problems of science,
+without the advantage of previous training, as an added proof that the
+ideas and methods of the model farm were most assuredly in conjunctive
+harmony with planetary evolution; therefore with the great force of
+combined co-operative mental effort to push it forward, still more
+surprising results might reasonably be expected, when these efforts were
+more wisely and skillfully directed along lines indicated by nature as
+lines of the least possible resistance. A realization of these
+expectations would seem to suggest that the key to future success in all
+educational work lies in discovering systems, methods, associations and
+surroundings for the students, which are nearest in conjunctive harmony
+with natural evolution, consequently along a pathway presenting the
+fewest possible obstacles.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+A TWENTIETH CENTURY LOVE LETTER.
+
+
+"All the world loves a lover!" is a trite but beautiful saying, which
+touches a responsive chord in the great heart of humanity! We cannot
+remain indifferent to the magnetic effect of the strong tide of his
+eloquent and impetuous wooing. Nor can we withhold a sympathetic desire
+to aid him in reaching the goal of success--to win the precious prize.
+Quite as naturally, we are intensely and delightfully interested in the
+birth, the unfoldment, and the blossoming of every individual entity in
+the great ocean of cosmic life. Instinctively we recognize that love is
+life. One could not exist without the other. Old and young alike
+understand the potency of the spell which binds the lover; which holds
+him for unconscious periods of time, absorbed in dreamy contemplation of
+his ecstatic devotion to the heroic virtues, graces, accomplishments and
+attributes of the charming woman, whom his heart has chosen to represent
+all things in the universe which have meaning and worth for him. Through
+this adorable woman, the crowned and glorified object of his
+all-absorbing love, he can best respond to the rythmic throbbing of all
+cosmic life. In this superior state of beautiful transfiguration, he
+forgets self, and lives for long happy months in the rare upper strata
+of real unselfishness. Under the powerful influence of pure love, the
+highest and holiest emotion which stirs, controls and makes better the
+life of every mortal; lost in the blissful alembic of this great
+chemical change, the lover recognizes himself in every demonstration of
+universal life around him. He also becomes aware, from some inner
+consciousness, of the extent to which the emotional nature controls and
+molds the individual; that among the anabolic emotions, love is the
+queen of the emotional empire; that the touch of her magical scepter is
+so potent and penetrating as to render the individual receptive and
+responsive to all of the ennobling, purifying, progressive and exalting
+elements of the universe: but, on the other hand, what is still more
+marvelous: that the same touch renders the individual negative to the
+inflowing currents from all of the baser elements. With this awareness
+comes the conviction that the Empire of Love is boundless and limitless;
+that it permeates and glorifies the vast ocean of infinity! On the
+strong, swift tide of this shoreless ocean, the lover floats, secure,
+serene and confident, on his voyage toward destiny's most distant port.
+
+The following letter from Fillmore Flagg to Fern Fenwick, will serve in
+some measure to illustrate the power of love to change, expand, energize
+and spiritualize the entire character of the lover: to purify and
+strengthen the moral disposition of our hero, to eliminate from it all
+tendency to selfishness; to endow him with a broader wisdom, with higher
+and nobler aspirations of life; to fit him more perfectly to carry
+forward his great work for humanity at Solaris Farm.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"My Darling Fern: Noblest, purest and most beautiful of women! Like the
+rose to the sunlight, like the needle to the pole, my heart turns in
+adoration to you. My own true love! My peerless one! My guiding star in
+love's azure sky! My soul swells and sings with its full tide of joy, as
+willing fingers attempt to put in words the thoughts born of my great
+love for you. What miracle have you wrought for me, my precious one,
+that I am so happy? The earth, the sky, the verdant woods, the grand
+mountains, the green meadows, the shady nooks, the babbling brooks;--all
+thrill my innermost being with a thousand new charms! The bees, the
+birds, the flowers and trees as they bend or sigh to the passing breeze;
+the solemn stillness of majestic night; the deep blue sea, overarched by
+nature's matchless crown of diamonds, a countless multitude of brilliant
+stars, in the silvery moonlight of love--how eloquent their song! All
+things in nature speak to me; they bless you for loving me! In the halo
+of that blessing, as I think of you, I am transfigured by a newly-born
+ecstacy! To breathe, to exist, is to realize the superlative degree of
+my exquisite happiness! Hidden away from the clouds and storms of life,
+by the golden mist which veils the measureless sea of love, infinite
+love, I sail serene and confident upon its heaving tide. Gently rocked
+by the lapping lullaby of the rythmical waves of paradise, I fearlessly
+float. I care not for time nor tide, nor distant port of a future
+destiny! Entranced by the music of love's beautiful sea, I dream love's
+dream alone with myself, the outer world shut away--swallowed up by the
+overwhelming tide of my sweet and blissful contentment.
+
+"From such hours of exaltation, I am sometimes rudely awakened by a
+monster reflex wave of self-examination. Ah, dear heart! It is then that
+I ask of my soul: What am I? What have I done? What sweet guardian
+spirit guides my life, that I should be made so exceedingly happy by the
+priceless love of such a beautiful woman? Am I worthy of such a
+blessing? Can I properly appreciate the great good fortune of being
+fondly and truly loved by such a peerless woman, who is so dear to me,
+so noble, so good, so true; so pure, so bright, so beautiful; so truly
+wise, so eloquent; in every way so well fitted by birth, wealth, and
+education to reign as queen in the most brilliant and most exclusive
+circles of the social world; even in the grandly beautiful city of
+Washington, where the princes and potentates of the earth, lords of
+other lands, of wealth and fashion of high degree, vie with each other
+and with the republic's most honored statesmen, for one smile, one look
+of recognition from this marvelous woman, who is everywhere recognized
+as the dominant center of attraction? Oh, the wonder of it! This is she
+who holds the key to my heart!
+
+"Ah, my adored one! As this picture of your life fills my mind, I wonder
+what would happen to me under such circumstances, with any other woman
+in your place. I know I should be both furiously jealous and foolishly
+despondent: but with you, the very apotheosis of truth and
+honesty!--Impossible! It could not be: so base a thought would perish
+with the thinking! I know you are as true as steel. The pure soul which
+shines from your eyes has spoken to mine. I am content; I fear not; I
+know that the compass of your love is constancy.
+
+"Oh! my darling! Chosen one of my soul! How great is the mystery of
+love! How priceless the blessing it brings to the lover! How brilliant
+the constellation, how spiritualizing the multitude of new thoughts to
+which it gives birth! How I pity those who have not been touched and
+quickened by the life-giving power of love! How sad and desolate is the
+pathway of the soul so unfortunate as to be shut away from the sunshine
+of love! Better, far better, to die of love! To die of love is to live
+by it! It is to have discovered the great deeps of the infinite: for
+love itself is a revelation of the infinite! The aspiration of love is
+the inspiration of paradise. Who can understand the significance, or the
+great mystery of immortality, or the fulness of the promise of eternal
+happiness to be gained by a life of endless progression, without first
+having lived a life of love? The smile of love is the rainbow of life!
+Every tender emotion of love is a prayer, pure and potent, for a higher
+life.
+
+"The truth of these things, my sweet heart, I realize more fully each
+day. I feel and know that every link in the chain of eternal existence,
+is a link of love! My love for you has been for me a spiritual blessing
+indeed! It has opened the eyes of my soul, so that I may perceive the
+significance of the miracle of love, which must precede the miracle of
+birth, as the necessary beginning of the unfoldment of the individual up
+to his highest estate--the repository of infinite possibilities. Love,
+then, my dear one, is the highest and holiest attribute of the human
+soul: that inspiring, controlling force, which wings the soul to such
+sublime spiritual heights, as are far above and beyond the storms of
+common passions, and the evil influences of the baser emotions.
+
+"Ah! sweetheart of mine! How much do I owe to the uplifting power of
+love! I question and wonder! When its divine radiance shines upon me,
+through the glory of your beautiful eyes, I am led up the steep
+acclivities of the mountain of wisdom by a new pathway. I perceive that
+as the oracle of life, love is the potency which crowns woman with that
+entrancing aura of soft, sweet, melting force, which for ages has
+proclaimed her the greatest and most fascinating mystery of the
+universe! I also perceive that, responding to the stimulant of this
+potential aura, I am thrilled, spiritualized, energized, encouraged and
+more perfectly fitted to perform whatever difficult or heroic work the
+needs of our farm people may demand. Fortunate for me was the day when
+Fennimore Fenwick left you heir to his plans for redeeming the lives of
+these people! Fortunate indeed, was the time when I was chosen by you to
+discover, select and institute Solaris Farm, with the broad humanitarian
+work which its success represents. Each memory of this farm; of my every
+thought, plan or deed for its improvement: of its people; of their
+lives, health, and happiness; of their sublime confidence in me, of the
+prompt obedience they so cheerfully render to my slightest command; of
+the peculiar pride expressed by the appreciation of their importance as
+working units of the farm, all united, harmoniously blended, in one
+perfected co-operative mass;--is a memory made more delightfully
+permanent by the wonderful light of your love!
+
+"Never before have I been so busy or so blessed! Every emotion of pride,
+enthusiasm, ambition, joy or love, which stirs the hearts and quickens
+the pulse of these people, who are working with me for one object so
+faithfully, so earnestly; through the magnetic halo of your love, is
+reflected upon me with redoubled intensity. In the strong current of
+this electrical stream of power, I am quickened, strengthened and
+prepared to do better thinking and more effective work for the perfect
+development of the farm.
+
+"At this point, dear Fern, I must mention an item of farm news, in which
+I am sure you will be greatly interested. We have arranged to have our
+arbor-day celebration, or tree planting festival, on the 10th day of the
+month of March in each year, as the season, in this climate most
+suitable for the work. For some months past, for the purpose of exciting
+in the minds of our people a keener interest, I have been giving a
+course of lectures on the general subject of forestry. These lectures
+have proved so attractive, that as a result, they have been
+exceptionally well attended by both old and young. The amount of
+interest displayed by my hearers, is a continual source of surprise and
+delight to me. Early in the course, this extraordinary interest
+culminated in such a perfect shower of questions in regard to the
+details of the subject, that I was obliged to refer my questioners to
+the various books written on the subject, as most completely and
+satisfactorily answering the multitude of their queries. As a
+consequence, the botany club has had a great boom. While every book in
+the library on forestry, or the care and culture of plants and trees,
+including those in a full series of annual reports from the Department
+of Agriculture, is in constant use. You would be delighted, my dearest,
+could you note the readiness of even the children to grasp the idea, to
+understand the immensity of the benefits which may be conferred on
+future generations by our systematically directed efforts in tree
+planting here on this farm. Both young and old alike, are quick to
+appreciate the important fact that while we are enjoying a holiday, to
+which we may look forward each year with increasing delight; we are at
+the same time furnishing the world with an object lesson as to the
+practicability and great value of the good work which may be
+accomplished by all classes of agricultural people, in the general
+observance of such a festival.
+
+"The announcement of the good news that you are to visit the farm in
+time to attend our first arbor day celebration, on the tenth of next
+month, has made our people very happy. They are simply wild with delight
+at the prospect of seeing you so soon: of having an opportunity to thank
+you in person for the many favors you have so generously bestowed upon
+them. Hitherto they have admired and adored the beautiful and generous
+young patroness of Solaris Farm, through the medium of a life-size
+crayon portrait, made some months ago, from one of your recent
+photographs. Since then, this lovely shadow of the idol of my heart,
+adorned by a suitable frame, has occupied the post of honor, as the
+only picture on the walls of the library. The advent of such a charming
+picture, at once converted the library into the throne room of the
+village, where gathered daily, admiring throngs of our people to feast
+their eyes in silent worship at the shrine of this life-like shadow of
+your lovely face. In thus exposing this picture, so dear, so sacred to
+me, to the earnest and respectful admiration of our people without your
+knowledge or consent; I trust, Dear Heart, that I may not have outraged
+your sense of propriety in the slightest degree. It occurred to me that
+it would be just and right, also most fitting and proper that, as the
+patroness of the farm, your portrait should appear in the place it now
+occupies; that it would be the most appropriate method of linking your
+individuality, in the minds of our people, with the peculiar work and
+destiny of the farm. If you consider my action from this point of view,
+I am sure you will approve. Like some good fairy, the silent charm of
+your portrait has each day, each hour, wrought its perfect work in my
+life and in the lives of our people. It has proved a constant source of
+delight! An added talisman to insure the final success of our
+enterprise!
+
+"Ah, my good angel! my Princess Charming! At last comes the crowning
+thought which completes my wreath of happiness! It comes to me daily,
+again and again! It is this, Dear Heart; that every step toward the
+final and complete success of Solaris Farm, is an added link in the
+chain of a shining destiny which shall bind our lives more firmly
+together, until at last this beautiful chain of love shall have become
+proof against the dissolving power of the passing ages of an Eternity!
+
+"In conclusion, sweetheart, may a bright band of faithful guardian
+spirits, ever watchful, ever near, guide and guard you, the crowning
+treasure of my life, is the earnest prayer of
+
+            "Your devoted, loving and loyal,
+
+                        "FILLMORE FLAGG."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+THE REPLY.
+
+
+"MY DARLING FILLMORE: Words fail to express the happy effect of the
+pleasing emotions that arise as I muse and dream, build castles in the
+air and indulge myself, again and again, in the luxury of reading line
+by line, the glowing tributes of love in your marvelous letter. I am
+electrified by its wonderful logic, rythm and melody. Ah, my chosen one!
+So manly; so noble; so true! The witchery of your eloquence is a
+conquering force, that Cupid with his bow might well be proud of! My
+heart rejoices under the influence of its magical spell! I am so happy
+and so proud of you! The great deeps of my emotional nature have
+responded to the poetical sublimity of your charmingly expressed
+sentiments. They thrill my soul like the dawn of some glorious summer
+day; like the exquisite perfume of a sweet flower; like that sublimely
+sweet surprise which steals over the senses, while a fleecy veil of
+silvery mist, responding to the power of the advancing king of day,
+slowly rises and discloses the shoreless grandeur of that tidal mystery,
+the majestic, restless, billowy bosom of Old Ocean; like some grand
+symphony of masterful music, penetrating and resonant, with that
+mysterious potency which awakens every echo of the soul's musical
+possibilities! Yet, sweetheart, every word is charged with your personal
+magnetism; is stamped with your individuality; freighted with the wealth
+of your spiritual and intellectual development. In every line, sentence
+and paragraph, I recognize you as my ideal of a lover, the dearest and
+most noble of men!
+
+"In my retrospective moods, the cloud of memories, born of the incidents
+which have marked our past acquaintance, form a telescopic vista.
+Through this vista, examined in the crucible of much correspondence, the
+intimate association and the mutual friendship of many months duration,
+I perceive that I have discovered and have learned to appreciate the
+sterling worth of your character. Through this avenue I become conscious
+that you represent to me the superior nobility of true American genius;
+the highest and grandest type of manhood! Idealized as my hero, I place
+you in the front rank of America's dominant thinkers; a peer among
+peers, both potential and progressive--yet withal so modest, so free
+from dogmatism.
+
+"I seem to feel intuitively that you are standing at the very beginning
+of a new cycle in the history of our planet: a cycle in which symmetry
+of mind and power of brain, fix the standard by which nature selects the
+leaders she deems most worthy of ruling the destinies of her people. I
+feel that you have been measured by such a standard, and chosen as the
+instrument for the accomplishment of a special work of the utmost
+importance!
+
+"This bit of hero-worship on my part is due, no doubt, to the intensity
+of my devotion to our Republic; to the earnestness of my convictions in
+regard to its manifest destiny as a saving power--an uplifting
+force--among the nations of the earth. These growing convictions are
+emphasized by the keener perceptions of my spiritual nature, which
+declare that this almost resistless force which dominates our Republic,
+that may be likened to the world's storage battery, is due to the
+progressive power gained by the universal enlightenment of the American
+people as a mass. This important thought seems to emphasize the wisdom
+and the importance of universal education.
+
+"I must now refer to a matter mentioned in your letter, in which I am
+particularly interested. In declining to become jealous of the bevy of
+titled lords, who pay fawning court to my wealth and social position,
+here in Washington, you do yourself justice; while at the same time, you
+pay me the compliment of a lifetime! When compared with you, how puny
+and feeble are the princes and titled lords, made by kings and courts,
+in lands where selfishness reigns supreme at the expense of millions of
+unfortunate subjects! An impecunious host of these fortune-hunting lords
+swarm in the society of our large cities. With faded titles of doubtful
+value, as their only stock in trade, they fittingly represent the
+decaying nobility of passing monarchies. They are looking for victims!
+They become the highly honored guests of selfish, title-crazy,
+match-making mothers! Oh the pity of it! Oh the shame of it! How
+American girls, who are born to wealth, with all of the advantages which
+wealth may command, including the best education possible in this land
+of progressive liberty; who should love devotedly the vital principles
+of our democracy;--can be so dazzled by the false glitter of a title,
+that they deliberately choose to mate themselves (and their riches,)
+with such sorry specimens of lordliness; such brainless, nerveless
+bundles of selfishness, is something too monstrous for my comprehension!
+
+"Are these girls really Americans at heart? Do they represent the women
+of our land? Can they understand or appreciate the privilege as a
+birthright, of proudly taking an honored part in the coming motherhood
+of this great and progressive land of republican liberty; a republic
+which to day stands as the hope of the world? Is it possible that they
+can knowingly wish to become mothers of a feeble race of puny
+children--children who are cruelly bereft of moral, physical and
+intellectual vigor by the tainted heritage which, like some avenging
+nemesis, through the action of an inexorable law, surely follows the
+unfortunate offspring of lordling fathers, who are born as the very
+dregs from twenty generations of the vice and depravity of kingly
+courts?
+
+"My dear Fillmore, to these interrogatories I answer, No! A thousand
+times No! Ignorance! A shameful ignorance of the true object and purpose
+of human life, on the part of these misguided girls, is their only sin.
+They are well-nigh hopelessly ignorant of the significance, or even the
+existence, of the great basic truths of evolutionary life. They know not
+that each age in the series of evolution grows out of the preceding one;
+that each in its order is the parent of the next; that the same is true
+of each generation of people. In the midnight darkness of their
+ignorance, they are incapable of knowing that virtue inherently
+possesses the germ of perpetuity. They can neither understand nor heed
+the warning cry of history, which proves that crime and depravity have
+in themselves the seeds of natural death. They have never read
+history's tragic story of the total extinction of the royal houses of
+Capet, Valois, Tudor, Stuart and Bourbon;--a story which demonstrates so
+conclusively the avenging results that follow the crimes of royal
+fathers.
+
+"To redeem these girls from such dense ignorance; to rescue them from
+the thralldom of such a fashionable sin, which threatens to become a
+fad; to open their eyes to the horrible consequences which follow such
+misalliances, is a work so important as to demand the immediate
+attention and united effort of a host of America's patriot mothers.
+
+"Pardon me, dear Fillmore, for devoting so much space in my letter to
+this particular topic. I feel sure you will kindly excuse any excess of
+fervor which may have marked the expression of my indignation. Because
+you so well understand the intensity of my devotion to the broadly
+progressive principles of our matchless republic, you may, consequently,
+guess the full measure of my scorn for this foolish, title-hunting class
+of creatures who, like silly moths, blindly sacrifice themselves in
+folly's funereal flame. The bare idea of marriage to gain a foreign
+title has always been exceedingly repugnant to me. With passing years, I
+am each day more thankful that since my early childhood there has been
+buried deep in my heart, a determination that when the time came for me
+to select a husband, the only title of the one chosen should be the
+stamp of honor which marked him as a true type of an American citizen--a
+real American genius; a truly noble soul, perfectly and beautifully
+expressed by a harmonious combination of physical and intellectual
+development!
+
+"Fortunate the day for me when that lucky advertisement brought you to
+my side, as a trusty, capable co-worker, whom I have learned to
+respect, to admire and to love. My dreams have been realized. I have
+found my ideal. You may fearlessly trust in the absolute truth of your
+assertion that 'the compass of my love is constancy!'
+
+"Now my hero! My ideal of a gallant Knight of Most Excellent
+Agriculture, whose nodding plumes, of tassels of corn, artistically
+interwoven with splendid pompons of waving wheat, barley, oats and rye
+have so dazzled my eyes and charmed my heart; having chanted my song of
+love, I hasten to assure you that your last report concerning the
+administration of the affairs of the farm, has pleased me greatly. I
+think the progress achieved in so short a time, is truly marvelous! Only
+my Fillmore could have accomplished so much! I am full of curiosity
+about the details. When I come, you must be prepared to answer a host of
+questions; to go with me on many excursions of discovery before I shall
+have completed my tour of agricultural investigation.
+
+"I approve of the disposition you have made of my portrait. Of course my
+personal pride is gratified by the sincere admiration and praise it has
+excited. I am happy in the knowledge that it has proved so efficacious
+as a talisman of good fortune for the farm. I think I understand your
+reasons for the feeling that my individuality should be in some way
+directly interwoven with the destiny of the farm.
+
+"Reasoning from the peculiar environments which so affect our lives, I
+realize more fully each day that my personal interest in every step
+toward its final success, must necessarily be quite equal to your own.
+
+"I am delighted with the idea of being present at your first Arbor day
+celebration. I hope there is to be in the order of exercises an oration
+which you are to deliver. If so, I know you will not disappoint me! I
+am prepared to prophesy that you will do yourself justice, do credit to
+Solaris and at the same time you will cover the subject with a halo of
+glory. Such a result seems assured when I consider the extraordinary
+interest which was aroused by your lectures on forestry. This signal
+conquest of your eloquence has gratified my pride very much. I am
+strongly impressed with the vast importance of this tree-planting
+school, which you are about to institute at Solaris. The success which
+you have won in the preliminary work is so promising, that I am sure you
+have undertaken a task which is worthy of your genius. In my judgment,
+you have already demonstrated your ability to accomplish many wonderful
+things. Great opportunities are before you. By the force of your logic,
+by the earnestness of your eloquence, you will be able to instill and to
+permanently fix in the minds of our people--both parents and
+children--the true progressive principles of American citizenship. You
+will thus enable them to perceive the serious import of the
+responsibilities which, like a mantle of power, descends upon them, as
+the representative working units of this great republic. You can so
+inspire them that they will be eager and proud to take up with honor the
+burden of these responsibilities. You can so change and elevate the
+lives of these people and a multitude of others, that first they shall
+become masters of themselves; later, masters of the republic; through
+the controlling force, the imperial dominancy of scientifically
+developed, symmetrical minds; whose intellectual, ethical,
+inspirational, logical and constructive power, combined as an elevating
+agency, shall raise the republic of the future to still more commanding
+heights. To accomplish these things, is the glorious beginning of a
+great career! In visions of your life work, it comes to me that this
+preparatory work on the farm is but the introduction to a more important
+mission, in the vastly wider field of a near future. In this coming work
+we shall stand side by side. Hand in hand, with hearts united by the
+bonds of a supreme love, we shall go forth armed with the power to
+overcome and to conquer the great hosts of ignorance and selfishness
+which so hinder the world's progress.
+
+"Really, my true love, although this letter is so long, I cannot close
+it without again expressing my appreciation of your soul-satisfying
+letter; so laden with the fragrance, the benediction of your love; so
+potent with the charm of happiness for me. To its benign influence my
+heart responds by the awakening of the highest and best emotions of my
+spiritual nature. Written in clear, plain English, it appeals to me as a
+letter of such sterling intelligence as only my ideal of a lover could
+write. How different it is from the soft, sweet nonsense of fashionable
+fops; the effusive gush of poetical dudes.
+
+"Now, I must say to you Good bye, my sweetheart! Remember that waking or
+dreaming, I love you truly. Only you, so dear to me--you, so generous,
+so noble, so good. Bright are the links of love's golden chain which
+time cannot sever. Constancy, our love shall bless, now and forever. May
+the sweet guardian spirits who guide your footsteps, keep you safely
+until we meet again, is the ever-present thought which is inspired by
+love's whisper in the heart of your devoted,
+
+"FERN FENWICK."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+FERN FENWICK ARRIVES AT SOLARIS.
+
+
+Fern Fenwick, accompanied by Mrs. Bainbridge, arrived at Solaris on the
+afternoon of the third day previous to the tree-planting festival. When
+the train reached the station, they were met by Fillmore Flagg
+accompanied by George and Gertrude Gerrish, the committee representing
+the farm company. With this escort to the village, they were soon
+installed in a handsome suite of rooms, beautifully decorated and
+furnished for their reception.
+
+After a late luncheon, Fern Fenwick gave a private interview to Fillmore
+Flagg. During this interview, which lasted more than two hours, matters
+both of business and of love were discussed: love, however, claimed the
+lion's share of the time. Very soon, by mutual consent, the major part
+of the business was postponed until after the tour of the farm, planned
+for the following day, had been completed. Then with a sigh of relief,
+they resigned themselves to the sway of that potent charm of blending
+magnetic and spiritual auras, which so swiftly transports reunited
+lovers to a paradise of their own.
+
+In accordance with previous plans, the next day was spent by the
+visitors in driving about the farm. The first motor carriage was
+occupied by Mrs. Bainbridge accompanied by George and Gertrude Gerrish,
+Fillmore Flagg and Fern Fenwick following in another. Pursuing a
+carefully arranged program, all points of interest were visited; the
+barns and stables, herds and flocks, the meadows, the cotton and grain
+fields, poultry yards, dairy, apiary, gardens, mills, store-houses,
+packing-houses, factory buildings, the brick works and pottery, the
+clay-beds, stone-quarries, coal and other mines.
+
+This tour of inspection, which occupied nearly the whole day, proved
+very interesting to Fern Fenwick. With her note-book in hand, and her
+keen eyes on the alert to catch every salient point, she kept our hero
+busy answering a host of questions. It was a long, happy day for him! To
+sit so near her, to look into her smiling eyes, to listen to the musical
+tones of her voice, to answer her swiftly spoken questions, to respond
+to the pressure of her gloved hand upon his arm as she directed his
+attention to some particular object; all seemed to him such a delicious
+bit of experience, that he almost wished it might go on forever!
+
+In the evening the reception given in honor of the Patroness of the
+farm, was held in the large hall of education and amusement. In this
+hall, which was handsomely decorated for the event, the people of
+Solaris were assembled. They were a unit in eagerness to give expression
+to demonstrations of delight when, for the first time, they were
+permitted to greet the one they wished to honor: a woman whose name they
+reverenced as the title of the noblest guest they could ever hope to
+entertain. George and Gertrude Gerrish, with Mrs. Bainbridge, were
+already seated on the stage, when Fillmore Flagg appeared, escorting
+Fern Fenwick from the waiting room. Moved by one dominant impulse, the
+entire audience arose to receive her. The repeated cheers of welcome
+were intensified by the accompaniment of a fleecy cloud of waving
+handkerchiefs.
+
+Our heroine was well worthy the ovation: richly and artistically gowned,
+she was a perfect picture of loveliness! Her cheeks flushed with the
+excitement of such an unexpected demonstration, her beautiful eyes
+flashing with the inspiration of her wonderful enthusiasm, her perfect
+figure proudly erect with the grace and dignity of an all-conquering
+magnetic presence, she captured the hearts of the people even before she
+had opened her lovely lips to address them.
+
+Warned by a gesture from Fillmore, the cheering ceased and the audience
+became seated. He then introduced Fern Fenwick by a neat little speech
+which provoked another storm of applause more demonstrative than the
+first.
+
+When order was again restored, at a signal from George Gerrish the
+double quartet of mixed voices, which had been selected from the singers
+of the musical club, came forward and, in a style which reflected much
+credit on the club, gave a song of welcome composed for this particular
+reception, and entitled; "She comes, she comes, she comes to us; our
+wise and lovely patroness." This song, which created a real sensation,
+was followed by an eloquent address of welcome delivered by George
+Gerrish in his official capacity, as president of the company. His
+remarks were seconded and emphasized most vigorously by long continued
+demonstrations of approval from the assembled members.
+
+In response, Fern Fenwick replied at some length in her most charming
+manner. Turning to George Gerrish, she said:
+
+"To you, the president, and through you, to the officers, members and
+children of the company here assembled, I offer my sincere thanks for
+the honor conferred, and for the pleasure given to me by this delightful
+reception. The sentiments of kindly greeting, of keen appreciation, of
+admiring approval, so beautifully expressed in your address of welcome,
+have touched me deeply. I am so profoundly moved, that my heart
+overflows with grateful emotions! Equally charming, and even more
+gracious to me were the words and music of the song which your sweet
+singers have rendered so artistically. These testimonials have so
+wonderfully impressed me that I can not forget them! As the years come
+and go, I shall cherish the bright memories of this eventful evening, as
+added jewels with which to mark and adorn the shining links, interwoven
+with the chain of my experience in life. These memories shall also serve
+to strengthen my already intense interest in this most extraordinary
+farm. A farm with such a wide range of improvements; with such an
+imposing collection of large well constructed buildings; with so many
+profitable allied industries in the full tide of successful operation;
+with a general equipment so magnificent, that at every turn I am
+astonished and delighted. I now understand why and how you have
+succeeded in transforming the hated drudgery of farm labor into such a
+pleasant, desirable occupation.
+
+"Since the beginning of the enterprise, my interest in the work has been
+constantly stimulated by the detailed accounts contained in the full
+weekly reports furnished by your general manager. These reports from
+time to time, I have studied carefully. Therefore I came here expecting
+much. However, after my tour of inspection, I hasten to assure you, that
+I was not all prepared to find such an ideal farm, already in successful
+operation! A farm with proportions so generous, an equipment so
+complete, and a future so promising; that when I pause to contemplate
+the magical changes wrought upon it in the brief space of thirty
+months, I am filled with admiration for its wonder-working, epoch-making
+people! I consider it a coveted honor to be known as the patroness of
+such a grand institution. People of Solaris, I am happy to be thus
+identified with you. I am proud of you and your work! A work which shall
+yet cause millions to rejoice! You cannot guess; no one can even
+estimate, the exceeding value of this work as a shining example of what
+properly organized labor can accomplish. You have succeeded far beyond
+my expectations! Do not waver or turn aside for one moment! Go forward
+bravely; be strong and steadfast; be encouraged with the assurance that
+all times, I am ready and willing to assist you in every possible way!
+Success with her golden crown waits to reward you! All the world is
+watching and waiting for the victory, which you have already won.
+Therefore, in the name of humanity, I am justified here and now, in
+thanking you for this superb lesson in unselfish co-operation. This
+lesson in self evolution, which you have given to the world, is a result
+on your part as individuals, of a wise exercise of mutual trust and
+confidence in each other; reinforced by the combined industry, zeal,
+persistence and skill displayed in your noble efforts. By such efforts
+you have made the name of Solaris justly famous throughout the length
+and breadth of this Republic!
+
+"In conclusion, Mr. Chairman, and friends, allow me to again express my
+thanks for your greetings of welcome, and for every demonstration of
+loving appreciation which you have so generously showered upon me."
+
+While the hall still rang with the plaudits of a delighted people;
+before Fern Fenwick could move towards her seat, George and Gertrude
+Gerrish and Fillmore Flagg all hastened to her side, to offer
+congratulations on the eloquence and excellence of her impromptu
+address. To the observer, it was plainly evident that the effect of such
+a stirring speech on the assembled co-operators was unusually
+impressive. They seemed to be inspired with a deeper reverence and a
+more perfect loyalty of devotion for this remarkable woman, who had so
+charmed them by the power of her eloquence. Swayed by the intensity of
+this deep feeling which could not well express itself in noisy cheering;
+they eagerly pressed forward in a quiet orderly way toward the stage,
+where George Gerrish was waiting to introduce them individually to our
+heroine, the patroness of the farm. Smiling graciously as they
+approached and were presented, she took each one by the hand in such an
+earnest cordial manner, that all feelings of shyness or embarassment
+were quickly banished. After the exchange of a few words of pleasant
+greeting, they quietly returned to their seats. As the reception
+progressed, many of the members improved the brief moments in expressing
+their grateful appreciation, for the words of praise which she had so
+enthusiastically bestowed upon them, in a speech they could never
+forget.
+
+When all were again seated, George Gerrish announced that the program
+for the evening would close with three short selections, to be given by
+volunteer members from the ranks of the musical and dramatic clubs. With
+this part of the entertainment finished, before the people could be
+dismissed, Fern Fenwick arose to bid them good night, and to thank them
+for such a charming reception, which she pronounced "simply delightful!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+THE FESTIVAL.
+
+
+Fortunately for the tree-planters, the day of the celebration at
+Solaris, proved exceptionally fine! No one could resist the exhilarating
+tonic of such a perfect day! A day made more glorious by a cloudless
+expanse of blue sky, a flood of golden sunlight, and breezes, soft as
+the balmy breath of gentle spring could make them!
+
+The tools and the potted trees, each labeled with the name of the
+planter, were hauled in wagons from the nursery to the site of the
+future forest, where the ground had already been prepared to receive
+them.
+
+At nine o'clock in the morning the band in the public square began to
+play, as the signal for the people to assemble. At ten the procession
+was formed, ready to march to the planting grounds. First: the band
+under the leadership of Gilbert Gerrish. Second: the children in
+alternating fours of boys and girls. Third: the adults in the same
+order; followed by the carriages with the President, the Patroness, Mrs.
+Bainbridge, Fillmore Flagg and Gertrude Gerrish.
+
+Having reached the grounds, the procession was massed into a square of
+close columns. The ranks were divided into planting classes of twenty,
+with an instructor for each class. After the classification, the double
+quartet of mixed voices, sang a hymn to the forest; the assembly joining
+in the chorus. As the square broke up, the members of each class,
+carrying tools and plants, followed the teacher to the particular
+planting grounds prepared for them. At a given signal, three blasts from
+the bugle, the work began, and went merrily forward, with much vigor and
+a vast deal of lively chatter. In just twenty minutes, the planting was
+finished and the square reformed. The children altogether as a chorus,
+then gave "An Ode to Growing Trees," which they rendered so sweetly and
+so effectively, that they earned a great deal of well deserved praise.
+The order for the return march was sounded--the procession quickly
+re-formed and returned to the village in the same order in which it
+came.
+
+A twenty-minute band-concert, given in the large dancing pavillion in
+the center of the public square, came next, and closed the order of
+exercises for the forenoon.
+
+An intermission until one o'clock was declared.
+
+Promptly at one o'clock the people were again assembled in the great
+hall of education and amusement, to hear the oration. The hall itself
+was handsomely decorated for the occasion, with a profusion of flags and
+ribbons. The roomy platform was transformed into a garden of verdure, by
+a brilliant array of ferns, flowers, palms, potted plants and young
+trees. Seated near the center of the platform were Fern Fenwick, Mrs.
+Bainbridge, Gertrude Gerrish, Fillmore Flagg and George Gerrish. The
+latter, as the president of the farm company, in a few well chosen
+words, introduced General Manager Flagg, as the orator of the day.
+
+Inspired by the cheers which greeted him, happy in the presence of his
+beloved Fern; yet with all alert, and confident of his complete mastery
+of the subject; our hero never before seemed quite so handsome as when
+he began to speak.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+THE ORATION.
+
+
+"People of Solaris, I thank you for the honor of having been chosen as
+the orator, for this our first Arbor-day Celebration! I assure you, that
+I am both proud and happy to serve you in that capacity!
+
+"In the beginning, let us consider the art of tree-planting, from the
+stand-point of an acorn, as being a typical nut or tree-bearing seed,
+such as I now hold in my hand.
+
+"This tiny nut, with such a smooth hard shell of polished brown,
+contains a kernel with magical possibilities. Within this kernel,
+closely packed and safely cradled, lies the embryo oak. So small and so
+insignificant is this nut, that one may travel for months over land and
+sea, with the possible ancestor of a half-dozen future oak-forests
+snugly tucked away in some inside pocket. This, too, without ever once
+receiving a demand from the lynx-eyed custom officials, for the payment
+of either import or export duties upon it. Half way round the globe,
+from the spot occupied by its parent tree, this highly-polished,
+much-traveled nut, if given the proper conditions, will at once commence
+the mysterious transformation process, which marks the beginning of the
+life and growth of another oak tree. This growth, under favorable
+circumstances, may continue for the historical period of ten centuries.
+Ministering meanwhile, to the needs of forty passing generations of
+people. Reproducing itself, perhaps a million times in the aggregate, by
+the enormous annual crops of acorns it may have borne. What a history of
+marvels, is the history of such a growth! As it is with the oak, so it
+is in a large measure, with all other trees which are produced from
+seeds.
+
+"This fascinatingly mysterious process of passing from seed to
+plant,--from passive to active life, we have watched with keen interest
+and growing pleasure, as from week to week, in the seed beds and nursery
+rows of our tree-garden, it has steadily progressed, under the varying
+conditions of sunshine and storm. Having reached a suitable size for
+transplanting, we have this morning commenced the actual work of tree
+planting, by carefully placing the young trees in the proper soil and
+location, where they may complete the sturdy growth they have so well
+begun. The preparatory work, we began some months ago, when as
+individuals, we selected the three trees, of some one chosen variety,
+which we especially desired to plant in forest formation, on the
+occasion of this festival.
+
+"By the months of thoughtful care and attention which we have given to
+these trees, we have gained a personal interest in them which we cannot
+lose. In this initiative work, I am convinced that we have wisely
+established such a broad foundation of general interest in forestry and
+kindred topics, that sooner or later, it will lead us to a complete
+mastery of the whole subject. The individual interest thus established,
+will continue to expand until it embraces the entire tree-family of the
+world. By constantly adding to our stores of knowledge in this
+direction, we shall be surprised to find how much we have extended our
+field of pleasure. In the same ratio, there will come to us a
+corresponding increase of affection and appreciation for our
+benefactors, the trees; a solace in the sojourn of life, so generously
+supplied by Mother Nature.
+
+"The location of Solaris as an experimental tree-planting farm, is
+particularly fortunate. It possesses a soil and climate which will
+promote the perfect growth of more than one hundred different varieties
+of trees. Among these, we find a majority of the valuable timber and
+nut-bearing trees of the world. Consequently, a very wide field of
+experimentation awaits our efforts. Let us improve our splendid
+opportunities so industriously, that a wide spread interest in forestry,
+may follow and become firmly established in the minds of the people of
+our Republic.
+
+"By way of an introduction to the general subject, of the importance of
+trees, as an adjunct to the progress, welfare and civilization of
+mankind. I wish to relate to you the story of my first great lesson in
+the seductive lore of forestry.
+
+"Near the beginning of the last decade of the Nineteenth Century, in the
+year of 1893, it was my good fortune to visit the World's Columbian
+Exposition at Chicago. I was then a lad of fifteen years, full of boyish
+enthusiasm, in the enjoyment of my first vacation from the preparatory
+school, where I was being fitted for my collegiate course.
+
+"I was born and reared on my father's farm, on the broad rolling
+prairies of Nebraska; up to that time I had never been far from home; as
+a consequence my knowledge of growing trees was limited to the following
+fast-growing varieties, which were planted and cultivated by prairie
+farmers for fuel, fencing and storm-protection. I will name these
+varieties in the order of their value for fuel and timber. White ash,
+soft maple, cottonwood and white willow. At a later period I learned
+that perhaps with the exception of white ash, the timber furnished by
+these trees, is considered valueless, in the markets of the world.
+
+"Under such circumstances you may imagine my astonishment when I first
+beheld that wonderfully unique, Forestry Building; with its bristling
+array of tree-trunk flag poles. Try first to picture in your mind's eye,
+a building in the form of a parallelogram, large enough to afford two
+acres of floor-space; with the first story surrounded on every side by a
+wide, open veranda: with a full length second story one hundred feet
+wide, rising gracefully from the central roof of the first; altogether,
+completing a design of exterior so boldly rustic in its general effect,
+as to suggest the idea of trees and forests at every point; then, you
+may get the delightfully novel effect, which the architect conveyed to
+my mind as I approached this curiously fascinating structure. A closer
+inspection increased the rustic effect of the general design. The main
+outside walls, were composed of thousands of wide, bark-coated slabs,
+cut from the choice typical trees of our American forests.
+
+"The wide roof, was in itself an ideal creation; it was thickly covered
+with curving tiles of rough bark, in alternating layers of the varying
+kinds, which formed a picturesque combination redolent with the spicy
+resinous odors of birch, basswood, hemlock and fir.
+
+"Completely encircling the building, with feet firmly planted on its
+solid stone foundation, rising to the roof through the floor of the
+veranda at its outer edge, were the thickly planted supporting pillars.
+These pillars like a long line of watchful sentinels, were placed in
+trios. The two outside pillars of each trio, were only separated from
+the middle one by a few inches of space, and were as nearly as possible,
+ten inches in diameter. The one in the center was much larger and held
+the post of honor as the flag bearer of its triumvirate. By pushing its
+way through the roof it became a huge flag pole, fifty feet from base to
+tip, with a beautiful banner proudly waving from its ball crowned
+summit. These pillars, both large and small, were bark-coated below the
+roof. Each one had been carefully selected for its symmetrical
+straightness, as a representative tree from the different forests of the
+world. Altogether, they formed a most interesting collection, to which
+might well be devoted, many hours of admiring inspection, by every lover
+of trees.
+
+"A wide lattice work of bark-laden tree limbs, of a uniform size
+completed the charmingly rustic cornice, which, like some endless
+curtain seemed to hang suspended from the caves of this bark-thatched
+roof.
+
+"Having sufficiently studied the exterior beauties of this remarkable
+building, of such arborescent magnificence; let us mount the steps to
+the broad, breezy veranda. Pausing a moment to inhale the refreshing
+coolness of the crisp air; and to admire the wave curving sparkle of the
+blue waters of Lake Michigan, we then pass to the shining portal of
+richly colored, highly polished woods, which form the main entrance.
+Here, covering the entire available floor-space, piled high in splendid
+profusion; we behold the garnered riches from the forests of the world.
+
+"I shall not attempt to describe my varying emotions of wonder and
+delight, as I wandered for hours through a bewildering maze of the
+wonderful exhibits, which formed this unrivalled collection of choice
+woods. As I advanced, my admiration for its variety and extent continued
+to grow. I began to perceive that, spread out before me, was the
+opportunity of a life time, which, if properly utilized would prove for
+me the permanent foundation of an education on the subject of timber,
+trees and forestry products. With this realization came the resolve,
+that I would devote time enough to each exhibit, to permit me to examine
+it in detail, leisurely and carefully.
+
+"The separate exhibits from the States of the Union and from other
+nations, were skillfully classified and so artistically arranged, as to
+show in the most effective manner the lovely grain, color and finished
+beauty, of the different woods.
+
+"All the valuable timbers were represented by three specimens. The first
+and second, were polished planks displaying the grain-finish, of both
+radial and transverse sections. The third, a cross section or disc,
+showing the heart, body-wood, sap-wood and bark; the full size of the
+tree represented. These discs proved by far the most interesting part of
+the exhibit. To me they were a revelation! They at once introduced me to
+the individuality of the tree. I could read the history of its life as I
+scanned the ever-widening circle of annual rings, which, from center to
+circumference, marked the slow growth of ages, as the tree advanced from
+infancy to maturity.
+
+"By means of these polished discs, I could touch and become personally
+acquainted with the precious, the famous, and the historical trees of
+the world. The mighty teak and deodar from India. The giant mahogany
+from Central America. The olive of Palestine. The cedars of Lebanon. The
+ancient oaks of Dodona. The magnificent dye-wood and rosewood of
+Brazil. The majestic live-oak of Florida. The druidical-oaks of England.
+The smooth, elastic bamboo, which by its size and strength becomes so
+useful in house-building, in both China and Japan. The towering spruces
+and sugar pines of our Pacific Coast. The great elms of New England. The
+justly famous, white pines of Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. The
+wonderful spice-woods of Java and Ceylon. The curious soap and rubber
+trees of Brazil. The tall sugar maples and smooth, symmetrical beeches
+of New York. The great hemlocks of Pennsylvania. The stately cypress,
+the royal tulip tree, and the beautiful evergreen white holly, of our
+southern forests. The highly prized black-walnut of Tennessee and North
+Carolina. The fruitful, free-growing chestnut, so common all over the
+United States. Finally, that towering king of all trees, the matchless
+mammoth redwood of California.
+
+"These redwoods are such veritable giants in size, that the half disc
+displayed in the California Section, with its thick ring of bark on the
+rounding side uppermost, stood sixteen feet high. From the huge trunk of
+this tree came the accompanying plank of such extraordinary dimensions,
+that a placard proclaimed it the largest plank the world ever saw. This
+plank was five inches thick, twenty-five feet long and sixteen feet nine
+inches wide; containing about two thousand feet of lumber, board
+measure.
+
+"In the Brazilian Section I found a large disc, accompanied by a
+specimen branch, with the leaves, flowers and fruit of a most remarkable
+tree. To this tree, the world owes a debt of gratitude for its generous
+unfailing supply of a rich wholesome food. Almost every child through
+the sense of sight, touch and taste, is familiar with that peculiar,
+triangular-shaped, sharp-edged, black-coated nut of commerce, with such
+a delicious kernel, known as the brazil nut. Very few however, know
+anything of the tree which bears them, or how they are attached to the
+branches from which they are suspended. As it is a matter of such
+general interest to both old and young, I shall take the liberty of
+devoting a few moments to a brief description of this gigantic tree,
+which the botanist has named 'The Bertholletia Excelsa.'
+
+"These wonderful trees grow most abundantly in the valleys of the
+Amazons, and generally throughout tropical America. In size and beauty,
+they rank as monarchs of their native forests. They attain an average
+height of one hundred and thirty feet, having smooth cylindrical,
+beautifully proportioned bodies; which often have the astonishing
+diameter of fourteen feet, when measured fifty feet above the ground.
+Like columns in some vast cathedral, these majestic representatives of
+the vegetable kingdom, raise their massive trunks one hundred feet
+toward heaven, before they commence to branch out, and to form a medium
+sized, symmetrical top. At this height grow the flowers and fruits.
+
+"The fruits are globular, with a diameter of five or six inches. Each
+fruit contains within its black, woody, shell, from eighteen to
+twenty-five closely packed seeds or brazil-nuts. These fruits, as they
+ripen, fall from their lofty position. At the proper season they are
+collected, broken open and marketed by the Indians, who roam through
+these dark, gloomy, miasmatic forests. The extraordinary abundance of
+the crop may be measured by the fact, that one port alone on the Amazon
+River, exports annually more than fifty millions of these excellent
+nuts.
+
+"Brazil-nuts are largely eaten as a nutritious and palatable food, by a
+multitude of people in many lands. They yield a generous supply of fine
+bland oil, which is highly prized for use in cookery, and also for
+lubricating all kinds of delicate machinery.
+
+"The timber furnished by these fruitful and beautiful trees, is light
+and durable, easily worked, well adapted to the purpose of
+boat-building; especially canoes of the largest size. Indeed! I may add
+as a final tribute to these noble trees, that they are the peculiar
+product of the American Continent, of which it may well be proud! They
+have bodies so tall, so straight, so large, so symmetrical, so free from
+knots, and so easily dug out, that the largest ship used by the hardy
+and fearless old Vikings of the Eleventh Century, could easily have been
+fashioned from a single one!
+
+"In connection with the main exhibit in the Forestry Building itself, I
+visited and examined the magnificent and astonishing timber displays
+shown in the State buildings of California, Oregon, and Washington.
+These exhibits were in every way worthy of those three great states of
+the Pacific Coast; they also served to largely increase the
+preponderance of the exhibit from the United States as a whole, over
+that of all other nations combined. The demonstrated extent, variety and
+wealth of our timber supply, was a matter of profound astonishment to
+visitors from other lands; while at the same time these things were
+equally a source of surprise and pride to every citizen of the Republic
+who saw them.
+
+"After a most delightfully well spent week, devoted almost entirely to
+forestry productions, I was prepared to sum up my impressions of the
+significance and value of the knowledge I had gained in my first
+lesson. It was plain to me that the magnitude and importance of the
+subject, was but little understood or appreciated, by the average
+American citizen. I saw that our people were very much in need of some
+great object lesson like the forestry exhibit of the Columbian
+Exposition, to make them properly realize the immensity of our debt of
+gratitude to Mother Nature for her munificent gift of trees to mankind.
+
+"I shall now conclude my story of the Forestry Exposition, by naming
+from the exhibit the following, as a few of the many things of use and
+value, which we owe to our benefactors, the trees; things which are so
+necessary to our comfort and happiness, which in so many ways, affect
+the progress, welfare and civilization of the world's people.
+
+"Among the more important gifts from the trees I shall place lumber and
+shingles, used in the construction of houses, barns and all kinds of
+habitable or industrial buildings; bridges, boats, ships and sailing
+vessels of all kinds; furniture, fencing and a great variety of farming
+utensils. Under the head of fuel, I may mention fire-wood and charcoal.
+In the class of vehicles we have wagons and all kinds of carriages from
+the stage coach to the pullman palace car. Some kind of lumber or timber
+enters very largely into the construction of almost every kind of
+machinery. In the miscellaneous group we find wood-alcohol, dye-wood,
+medicinal barks, roots and galls; precious gums, resins and all of the
+spices; the various kinds of excelsior used for packing, bedding and
+upholstery; wood-pulp and paper, inlaid work, vegetable ivory, and
+cocoanut shells; the entire series of willow ware, and wooden, or
+hollow ware. In food products, we are confronted by a most astonishing
+array of edible sprouts, berries, delicious fruits and nutritious nuts,
+forming altogether a multitude of things which, in civilized life, we
+could not possibly do without.
+
+"In considering the impressions conveyed to our minds by growing trees,
+which inherently possess a sturdy vitality, that can resist the
+vicissitudes of passing ages; we instinctively recognize them as
+nature's noblest gift to man. As majestic monarchs, in the empire of
+plant life, they appeal to us as companions, which become dearer with
+the associations of each passing year, until love for them becomes a
+feeling almost akin to worship.
+
+"This worshipful feeling, no doubt, comes to us as a heritage from a
+remote ancestry. In the days of ancient story, groves of noble trees
+offered primitive man, nature's grandest and most appropriate
+cathedrals, for the celebration of his worshipful rites. Is it a matter
+of wonder, that he unhesitatingly accorded to them, the distinction of
+being sacred? The emotional nature of this primitive man was a mystery
+which he could neither understand nor control. Often, he suffered untold
+tortures from the agonizing perturbations to which it easily became a
+prey. Hidden in the deep shade of his sacred grove, in his happier
+moments, the sighing of each passing breeze through his leafy canopy,
+become to his untrained ear, the whispered blessing of nature's placated
+God! When the dark pall of the Storm King shrouded all things with a
+terrifying gloom, the restless moaning of such a mass of writhing
+boughs, lashed by the fury of the blast, became the angry shriek of the
+Demons of Destruction, which left him prostrate and trembling in the
+throes of a paroxysm of worshipful fear. Analyzed, these actions show
+the result of man's environment.
+
+"By the way of a contrast, and as a testimonial to the planetary growth
+of man's emotional nature, gained from the ages of progress; let us
+question modern man as he leans confidingly, in a contemplative mood,
+against the broad trunk of some giant of the forest. With uncovered
+head, he muses in silence; he senses a vague feeling of awe for this
+magnificent specimen of matured life in the vegetable world. With every
+sense attuned to the overtones and undertones, produced by the
+vibrations of nature's harp; he catches the rythmic song of the sappy
+currents, as they swiftly fly to feed the swelling cells, where the
+building energy of their tiny hearts of protoplasm, ceaselessly changes
+the elements of soil and sunlight, into the woody fibre of this mighty
+tree. How beautiful! How like the complicated mechanism of the human
+body! Wonderingly he questions! Can it be possible, that the pulsing
+energy of the protoplasmic life of the tree, is identical with that of
+man, and all other forms of cosmic life? Does each great throb of the
+planetary heart, re-energize and move in unison, the protoplasmic
+centers of all forms of life? Who shall say?
+
+"In discussing the peculiar fitness of our present organization, to deal
+effectually with the question of tree planting, we discover, that in the
+co-operative association of so many people, we possess a marked
+advantage over the small farmer, which enables us to treat large tracts
+of land as a single farm; by devoting all of the rough, stony ground,
+steep hill sides, unsightly gullies and areas of poor, gravelly soils,
+to the purposes of timber and fruit culture.
+
+"Harmoniously united, we are financially and intellectually stronger;
+less influenced or retarded by motives of selfishness and greed;
+surrounded by conditions of easy comfort; armed with skill by study and
+experience; and withal inspired by a knowledge of the great necessity
+for replacing our forests; we are exceptionally well prepared to carry
+forward this great work, so successfully and to such an extent, that a
+few decades hence our hill sides and mountains, shall be re-clothed with
+beautiful forests of much finer trees--all choice timber--vastly more
+valuable than the original stock.
+
+"By more systematic methods of terracing the steep hills; by close
+planting of the young trees, with varieties selected by reason of their
+value for lumber, timber, nuts and fruit; by a judicious thinning out of
+these young trees so soon as they have grown to a useful size; a
+profitable crop of timber may be secured each year, with a positive
+benefit to the remaining trees. This operation may be repeated many
+times, before a partial replanting becomes necessary. By an extended use
+of these methods, the excellence of the timber supply may be doubled,
+while the aggregate yield will be trebled. The landscape will be
+beautified and permanently changed. Barren, unprofitable hills, and
+rough unsightly mountain tracts, rejoicing in a new growth of beautiful
+verdure-clad trees, will become objects of general admiration; while at
+the same time, the value of these lands, as a source of wealth, will be
+increased a thousand fold.
+
+"As these forests continue to grow, the shade deepens, the store of
+retained moisture increases, perceptible changes in the climate are
+effected; the evils of flood, erosion and drought are checked; the soil
+made deeper and richer; the rainfall largely increased; the climatic
+conditions become more genial, and the cooling, drouth-dispelling rains
+become more frequent.
+
+"The interesting and beautiful process, by which these changes are
+accomplished, may be briefly stated as follows: With the growth of each
+year, the area of the leafy surfaces of these forest trees is enormously
+extended. Measured by the same increasing ratio, many additional
+thousands of tons of moisture are pumped up and given to the winds in
+the form of a fine vapor, by the tireless industry of these lovely
+leaves. This vapor is taken up by the clouds--nature's aerial
+reservoirs. Soon this treasure of waters thus accumulated, is restored
+to the thirsty earth by a largely increased rainfall. Autumnal frosts
+ripen and loosen each crop of leaves; they fall silently to the ground,
+where they quickly form a thick, soft carpet of ever increasing
+thickness. Through the action of shade and moisture, the under surface
+of this carpet becomes a layer of fine leaf mold, which in turn offers
+rich food for the sustenance of millions of tiny feeding rootlets from
+the trees of the forest. The closely interwoven fibre of these rootlets,
+everywhere forms a strong web for the carpet, which firmly holds in
+place the soft, porous, underlying soil, safely protecting it from the
+destructive erosion which, especially on the steeper slopes, swiftly
+follows the dashing violence of heavy rain storms. Gradually this leafy
+carpet grows in strength and thickness; like some great sponge it sucks
+up and retains the waters of the snows of winter, with those of the
+increased rain-fall of summer.
+
+"Thousands of mountain torrents, the beginnings of destructive floods,
+are thus checked, absorbed and shorn of their disintegrating energies.
+The garnered waters from this wonderful leafy sponge, slowly percolate
+through the soil, to reappear in a multitude of living springs of pure
+sparkling water. From these springs gently flow the tiny rivulets, which
+in turn become the full streams that gladden the plains and valleys
+throughout the long scorching months of summer.
+
+"By a close analysis of the beneficial results which follow the annual
+recurrence of these beautiful processes, we may form a correct estimate
+of the vast importance of this tree-planting labor, to which this day,
+we gladly offer our best energies and our best thought. We begin to
+perceive the magnitude of the blessing which may be conferred on
+mankind, in general and on the agriculturist in particular, by the
+continued work of covering our hills and mountains with valuable
+forests.
+
+"We have discovered from nature the secret of a power that shall enable
+us to control many of our environmental conditions. We hold the key to
+the solution of a great problem, which for the past quarter of a
+century, has puzzled the brightest minds and best thinkers among our
+statesmen. The problem of how best to control the devastating floods,
+which each year, with increasing power and violence, continue to destroy
+hundreds of lives and millions of dollars worth of property, on the
+farms and in the towns and cities throughout the river valleys of our
+broad land. For this growing terror, we hold the cure! With the
+completion of this system of forestry, the floods will disappear. The
+interests of our coastwise and inland commerce, will be greatly extended
+and benefited. Many rivers, with beds choked and obstructed by the
+unsightly rocks and debris deposited by the annual floods, and for the
+same reason, dry for many months in each year, will again become
+navigable. Perennial streams, fed by permanent mountain springs, will
+serve to keep these rivers with full channels throughout the year.
+
+"The clear water will be free from the lighter silt which now finds its
+way to the sea; slowly filling up the river-mouth harbor, and finally
+destroying the commerce of the city which depends upon it. In this way,
+every individual, child or adult, who plants a tree, aids directly in
+the restoring some distant seaport to its former commercial importance;
+and has proudly earned the right to be placed as an important working
+member, on the peoples' great 'Committee for Improvement of Rivers and
+Harbors.'
+
+"Tree-planting, persistent tree-planting, by all classes of agricultural
+people, offers the only means or hope of checking the wide-spread,
+calamity-producing floods and erosions, which commenced with the
+destruction of our mountain forests. The destructive process is
+accelerated with each passing year. Unchecked, it threatens, a few
+centuries hence, to rob us of all fertile soil; to reduce our hills and
+mountains to a dreary waste of bare, sun-scorched rocks: our plains and
+valleys, to uninhabitable deserts. United action is therefore
+imperative!
+
+"Other incentives, worthy of our attention, urge us to commence the
+work. By yielding even one-half of the area of our tillable lands to the
+needs of forestry, we have all the richest lands left in the remaining
+half. The productiveness and fertility of these lands is sure to be
+speedily doubled. The amount of labor required to produce the same crops
+from the diminished areas, will be reduced one-half. A most important
+consideration!
+
+"The third generation of people, after the planting of these forests,
+will gather from them, such an abundant harvest of nuts, fruits, and
+valuable timbers, as will more than repay the entire cost of the land
+and labor required to produce them; leaving a handsome surplus to be
+devoted to carrying forward the work on a still larger scale; in regions
+less promising and more remote, even within the borders of the arid
+lands. With this lesson before us, how can we hesitate or falter in our
+efforts to successfully carry forward this important work?
+
+"I wish now, to call your attention to the following facts regarding the
+farms and farmers of our Republic, which altogether offer additional
+incentives for the speedy adoption of co-operative farming on a scale
+large enough to admit of timber culture, as the only available source of
+relief. The significance of these facts has scarcely been considered, by
+those most deeply interested. The farming lands now owned or controlled
+by our agricultural people, represent the accumulated capital or savings
+of a life time; frequently of several generations of the same family.
+
+"A steady decline in the market values of all farm products during the
+past twenty-five years, has in the same ratio, affected the selling
+value of the farm to such an extent, that from forty to fifty per cent
+of its value at the commencement of the decline, has been swept away and
+lost to the farmer, from the credit side of his available resources.
+This alarming shrinkage, has in the aggregate, amounted to many
+millions, yes, billions of dollars! The financial distress which has
+followed, has correspondingly affected many other industries. It has
+been the real cause of the forced sale of many fine farms at such
+ruinously low prices, as to sacrifice at one blow, the savings of a
+life-time. Each sale of this character serves to depress the market
+value of all lands in that particular locality. In this way the disaster
+spreads and gathers additional force.
+
+"A very large number of farmers, who have not as yet been forced to sell
+their farms, have found themselves so financially cramped, as to be
+unable to secure the additional lands they had hoped and planned to
+purchase for their children. What is the result? A most abundant harvest
+of blasted hopes for the sons and daughters of our American farms!
+
+"Capital in the hands of shrewd people, is always on the alert, waiting
+for such opportunities for investment. These investors through capital
+wish to live without effort, upon the proceeds of the labor of others.
+They seem to understand clearly, that to own land, is to own the
+services of the people who must have access to the land in order to
+live. This is why a land monopoly is more to be feared than other kind.
+For this reason we may well be alarmed, as we note from time to time,
+the large tracts of land which are being purchased by wealthy
+individuals, foreign syndicates, home corporations and land monopolists
+generally, who are quietly operating, while prices are so abnormally
+low, to obtain such complete control of our valuable agricultural lands,
+as will enable them in the near future, by a concert of action, to raise
+prices to such a pitch, that practically they would then be beyond the
+reach of the ordinary farmer.
+
+"These shrewd, far-seeing monopolists, having obtained control of the
+lands in question, can dictate such rents to all applicants, as will
+barely enable them to live. As a matter of fact, it is quite probable
+that they would much prefer not to rent their lands, because they could
+save for their own pockets, the wages of a great many workers, for at
+least five months in each year, by placing five-thousand-acre-farms in
+charge of a superintendent; who with two assistants, could live on the
+farm, taking proper care of the stock, tools and machinery, throughout
+the year. During the seven busy months, beginning about the first of
+April, transient labor, of the homeless tramp order, could easily be
+procured to work by the day, week or month, as the needs of the farm
+might demand.
+
+"The growing competition for even this kind of uncertain employment,
+would tend constantly to reduce the wages. The danger from this source
+has been fully demonstrated during the past twenty-five years, by the
+adoption of this disposition of their holdings, on the part of a great
+number of large land owners. The success of the bonanza farm, has proved
+perniciously infectious. Our small farmers, already in financial
+distress, cannot hope to compete with such large farms, so recklessly
+cropped by the monopolist for the largest possible cash returns, without
+regard for the future condition of the soil. To double the capital
+invested in five years' time, is the only concern of the investor.
+Whatever the land will sell for thereafter, is only so much additional
+profit.
+
+"We cannot close our eyes to these warning facts. They foretell the
+coming whirlwind of disaster. We may be sure that, if these things are
+allowed to continue without opposition, long before the close of the
+twentieth century, our agricultural people will be reduced individually
+to the abject serfdom of a houseless, homeless day-laborer. At this
+time it is almost impossible for a majority of the sons and daughters of
+the farms of our Republic to obtain possession of enough land to enable
+them to follow in the footsteps of their parents, by devoting their
+lives to agricultural pursuits. Many of them have already entered the
+downward path of the unfortunate tenant. Many others have been forced to
+find employment in other pursuits.
+
+"You ask how can this coming disaster be averted? How can our people be
+saved from such a hopeless future?
+
+"I answer, by the farmers, united with those who wish to become farmers,
+coming together everywhere in force; by pooling their issues; by helping
+themselves; by organizing co-operative farms like this, armed with
+schools in which skilled workmen may be taught to successfully carry on
+profitable allied manufacturing industries. Monopolistic farms cannot
+then successfully compete. With demonstrations, such as we are making
+here to-day, springing up by hundreds and thousands in each county and
+state, during the next thirty years, what may we expect? The last
+remaining serf will have been emancipated. The hopeless tenant and the
+landless farmer can no longer be found. No one can be induced to toil,
+for owners of the monopolistic farm. The owners will not and cannot work
+themselves. The experience of a few unprofitable years will urge them to
+sell their lands to the co-operators at such prices as they may be
+inclined to offer. The victory will be ours. A glorious victory truly!
+But, we must not expect to gain this victory without a severe struggle.
+In the earlier stages of the movement, the monopolist will soon
+recognize the co-operative farm as an enemy which must be fought to the
+bitter end, must be stamped out. To this end they will strive in every
+way to prevent us from obtaining possession of desirable lands.
+
+"This determined opposition we must expect and be prepared to meet.
+Forestry will help us to another solution of the problem. As the
+tree-planting farms continue to multiply, the increased rainfall will
+cause the area of tillable lands, to gradually extend beyond the borders
+of the arid lands. Therefore in case of necessity, we may turn to these
+arid lands for relief. In such an event, the question of forestry
+becomes an important factor.
+
+"By referring to the tenth annual report of the director of the U. S.
+Geological Survey, we learn that the arid regions of the United States,
+comprise the astonishing area of one million, three hundred thousand
+square miles. This immense region contains more than one-third of all
+our lands; a territory much larger than that of the thirteen original
+states combined. North and south, it stretches for hundreds of miles on
+either side of the Rocky Mountain Range, that great backbone and
+water-shed of our Continent. On the west, it covers nearly all of the
+surface of that vast, broken and irregular basin, lying between the
+Rocky and Sierra Nevada Mountains. On the east, it occupies that
+extended and peculiar domain of high plateaus, treeless plains and
+alkali barrens, known as the Great American Desert.
+
+"From this broad expanse of arid lands, in accordance with the
+statements of the survey officials, we may choose an area of one hundred
+and fifty thousand square miles of irrigable lands; that is lands which
+may be restored to productive fertility, by means of irrigating ditches
+along the valleys, and by building great catch basins, near the head
+waters of a multitude of mountain streams, in which may be conserved,
+the wasting waters of melting snows and those of the heavy mountain
+rainfalls combined. At this point we may mention incidentally, that this
+area of irrigable lands could be largely increased, by covering the
+available slopes of the Rocky Mountains with dense forests of fine
+timber. With this accomplished, the annual rainfall would be doubled,
+while the necessary conditions would be established, which, a few
+decades hence might yield an annual crop of valuable timber, that would
+soon repay the entire cost of planting and culture.
+
+"In addition to the last named increase, we may add an area of lands
+equal in size to the state of Illinois, which are beyond the reach of
+irrigating streams. We find these lands along the eastern foothills of
+the Rocky Mountains, and around the borders of the Great American
+desert. They may easily be restored to fertility, by the skillfully
+applied labor of a legion of co-operative farms. At varying depths
+beneath these lands, flow perennial streams of artesian water. By the
+spouting, life-giving waters of a vast number of artesian wells, a large
+proportion of these desert lands can be transformed to an agricultural
+paradise. The cost of these wells, would be but little more than the
+expense of the labor required to bore them.
+
+"But, says the objector, are not these mostly alkali lands? Of course
+they are! And for that reason offer greater possibilities of value! Can
+they be made to grow wheat, and thus increase the bread supply? Is a
+question that comes from the mouths of the world's great army of bread
+eaters, six hundred million strong. Just think of it!
+
+"For reasons which I shall state presently, I hope to be able to show
+why these alkali lands when properly irrigated, can be made to produce
+abundant crops of wheat.
+
+"For the past twenty years, leading men of science, who, alive to the
+importance of increasing the world's supply of wheat; have given close
+attention to statistics which seemed to indicate that the yield per
+acre, of the wheat fields in all countries, is steadily decreasing.
+Decreasing to such an extent as to make it probable, that in the near
+future, the yield on a large proportion of these lands, will become too
+meagre to pay the cost of cultivation. A long series of carefully
+conducted experiments demonstrated the truth of these alarming
+statistics.
+
+"This discovery led to a general search for some cheap, available,
+chemical, compound, which might restore these worn out wheat lands to
+their former productiveness.
+
+"In an address, delivered at Bristol, England, near the close of the
+nineteenth century, by Professor William Crookes, president of the
+British Association for the advancement of science; he says; 'Wheat
+pre-eminently demands as a dominant manure, nitrogen fixed in the form
+of ammonia or nitric acid. Many years of experimentation with nitrate of
+soda, or Chili salt-petre, have proved it to be the most concentrated
+form of nitrogenous food demanded by growing wheat. This substance
+occurs native, over a narrow band of the plain of Tamarugal, in the
+northern province of Chili, between the Andes and the coast hills. In
+this rainless district for countless ages, the continuous fixation of
+atmospheric nitrogen by the soil, its conversion into nitrate by the
+slow transfiguration of billions of nitrifying organizations, its
+combination with soda, and the crystallization of the nitrate have been
+steadily proceeding, until the nitrate fields of Chili have become of
+vast importance, and promise to be of inestimably greater value in the
+future. The growing exports of nitrate from Chili at present, amount to
+about 1,200,000 tons annually.'
+
+"In carefully analyzing this lesson from the lips of Professor Crookes,
+we discover that the same peculiar climatic conditions which made a
+Chilian desert so valuable, have been continuously at work in our great
+American desert for a great many thousands of years.
+
+"For this reason, our uncounted acres of alkali lands, are so rich with
+stores of this valuable nitrogenous compound, that by proper treatment
+they may become the most valuable wheat-producing lands in the world.
+The desert shall become the source of abundance! Under the transforming
+influence of a generous water supply, forests shall spring up, and
+fields of waving grain shall flourish around the village homes of a
+happy, prosperous people! Altogether, we have an empire of these
+irrigable lands now worthless, awaiting the transforming labor of the
+homeless and landless, to restore them to productive fertility.
+
+"When thus restored, these lands, at the lowest estimate, will be worth
+the enormous sum of two billion, eight hundred and eighty million
+dollars, which in due time may be transferred to the credit side of the
+wealth account of the nation! Long before this available domain of such
+vast possibilities has been conquered and reclaimed, the longing desires
+of all who wish for land, and for agricultural lives, for themselves and
+their children, will have been most abundantly satisfied.
+
+"In looking over this broad field of possibilities spread so temptingly
+before us, we are able to discover the importance of the work of
+tree-planting, which now demands our attention. Strengthened by
+concerted action, encouraged by new ideas and better methods we become
+firm in our convictions, that it is an imperative duty for us to
+continue the good work. We must increase the number of our co-operative
+farms with their tree-planting schools, until, educated and moved by the
+force of so many demonstrations, a great majority of the people of this
+Republic shall demand, that the entire area of the range of the Rocky
+Mountains within our geographical limits, shall become a permanent,
+public park; with such a wealth of territory and variety of climate,
+such beauty of scenic grandeur and magnitude of picturesque proportions,
+as the world never saw before. This matchless reservation is to be
+devoted to the needs and uses of forestry, mining, the preservation of
+its great variety of natural curiosities, and of American Game.
+
+"In addition to this Pride-of-the-World-Park, the people shall also
+demand, that all of the most available portions of the mountains of the
+Pacific Coast Range, the Sierra Nevadas, the Alleghenies, the
+Adirondacks and the White Mountains, shall be reserved by the
+government, and set apart for the same uses and purposes.
+
+"With the passing of this magnificent domain of mountain territory to
+the permanent control of the government, would come the beginning of the
+great public forests; which would clothe with new beauty, cover and
+protect in the most useful manner, the principal water-sheds of our
+broad continental possessions. Thus increasing to a degree approaching
+perfection, the purity and abundance of the crystal flood, that shall
+flow from a countless multitude of new springs of living water. The
+volume of water from these springs, shall furnish a supply sufficient to
+maintain with full channels, a perpetual flow in that net-work of lakes
+and rivers, that arterial system of fertility and commerce, which
+variegates and adorns the bright face of our fair land.
+
+"Altogether, in considering the broad scope of this stupendous plan as a
+whole, we have before us a most important work, which must be
+accomplished! A work which affects the welfare and happiness of every
+citizen of our Republic! A work which is in every way worthy of our most
+earnest and persistent effort!
+
+"This day, we have made a propitious beginning, which augurs well for
+success. Let us on all occasions encourage tree-planting as a sacred
+duty which we owe to future generations! A duty which must not be
+neglected! From this time forward, let us strive in every way to
+organize a broader, wiser, more powerful movement! Carried forward by
+the resistless force of an enthusiasm born of a mighty purpose; with
+strong hands and willing hearts, let us undertake the speedy
+accomplishment of our chosen task! Let us remember our responsibilities
+as immortal beings! Let us be mindful that life on this plane of
+existence is very brief; that an eternity of countless ages lies beyond!
+Therefore we cannot afford to be selfish! Let us heed the warning of
+nature's just law of compensation, which declares that in the higher
+life, selfishness becomes a torment in comparison with which a crown of
+thorns would seem a coveted blessing!
+
+"In our devotion to this noble work, let us ignore all unworthy
+thoughts of self interest! Possibly we may not as mortals, live long
+enough in the material form to reap many of the benefits that are to
+follow. But, being immortal; and having passed to a higher realm, where
+we are endowed with a keener, broader, mental, and spiritual vision;
+lost to the sense of time or physical pain, we may then behold the
+results of our work, in the increased enjoyment of our children and our
+children's children; while the centuries, like moments, glide swiftly by
+and are lost in the endless procession of passing ages!
+
+"Finally, as an additional source of encouragement to continue a work
+which we may not live to see mature; let us consider carefully the
+significance of the fact, that he who causes two blades of grass to grow
+where only one grew before, is counted a public benefactor. Judged by
+the same standard, he who causes two trees to grow where only one grew
+before, is a benefactor of mankind, whose good works shall earn for him
+the blessings of a hundred generations! By the same logic, it surely
+follows, that the people, who cause a forest of trees to spring from the
+arid bosom of desert earth, become the distinguished benefactors of the
+human race, who offer shade, shelter, fuel, fertility and sustenance, to
+a thousand future generations! They shall be thrice blessed! Having
+arisen to the demands of a higher life of unselfishness, where the
+solidarity of all life is recognized as a self-evident truth; they have
+gathered a sufficient store of love and wisdom to admit them to the
+domain of causation. Classed as worthy workers in that domain, they are
+entrusted by nature, with the magical key which unlocks the climatic
+gate, to her pent up floods of fertility.
+
+"In conclusion, people of Solaris, I leave this presentation of the
+subject for your earnest consideration until the recurrence of our next
+annual festival. During the interval, I feel confident that you will all
+join me in a closer study, of a topic which has already proved one of
+such absorbing interest,--of such vast importance.
+
+"Thanking you for your close attention, and for the frequent applause,
+which has demonstrated your approval, I recommend that we do now
+adjourn, to enjoy the waiting banquet which is to follow as the next
+order of the day."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+Great applause greeted Fillmore Flagg at the close of his oration.
+George Gerrish arose and paid a glowing tribute to the wisdom and
+eloquence of the orator; after which, grasping him by both hands, he
+said, "Fillmore, I am proud of you! Solaris is more than proud of the
+masterful way in which you have treated the entire subject! Your
+presentation of the theme, seemed to me to be so perfect, so exhaustive
+and eloquent, that in the future I may not expect to again hear its
+equal."
+
+The next moment Fern Fenwick came forward, radiant in her loveliness,
+her beautiful eyes shining with emotions of love and gratified pride. In
+a voice, whose clear, well modulated tones, thrilled him as no music
+could, she said, "Nobly done, Mr. Flagg! I knew you would not disappoint
+me! Your speech was the most lovely poem in prose that I have ever
+heard! So perfectly charming, that I find it far beyond my best words of
+praise! In return for such an eloquent tribute, the trees should join in
+a grateful anthem! You have sounded the key-note; it is the evident
+destiny of co-operative farming in the twentieth century, to restore
+these noble trees to their rightful domain."
+
+The banquet, which followed the oration proved a great success. It was
+really one long, interwoven garland of witty speech and inspiring music,
+together with the merry jingle and melodious crash of silver and china.
+The enjoyable zest of the entertainment, was spiced and flavored with
+the appetizing aroma of an abundance of delicious, well-cooked food.
+Placed at the head of the first table, our hero and heroine were at all
+times the center of attraction; the observed of all observers. "A
+handsome couple, evidently heaven-ordained for each other," was the
+universal comment.
+
+The dance in the evening, was fittingly chosen as the closing function
+of this famous festival. In arranging the program, Fern and Fillmore
+were selected by the floor managers as the leading couple. Inspired by
+the music of an excellent band under the leadership of Gilbert Gerrish,
+the assembled guests with the vigor and enthusiasm of youth caught the
+prevailing spirit of merriment, and gave themselves up to the
+fascinating movement of musical measures. Lost in the charm of the mazy
+dance, the merrymakers noted not the flight of time. The last number on
+the program came all too soon for them.
+
+Dismissed by George Gerrish, the people of Solaris left the hall in a
+joyful mood. They declared with one accord, that the day of the
+tree-planting festival, had proved the happiest one on the farm.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+THE STORY OF GILBERT GERRISH; OR, THE STRENGTH OF THE WEAKEST UNIT.
+
+
+To Gilbert Gerrish the day of the festival was one long to be
+remembered: a day so laden with enjoyment for him, that all
+consciousness of his affliction was blotted out. His musical genius was
+free and unfettered. In such a mood, the music he drew from his violin
+was more wonderful and entertaining than ever before. Fern Fenwick was
+astonished and delighted. She soon became so much interested, that at
+intervals between the dancing, she came upon the platform to engage him
+in conversation. Grateful for such marked attention from the
+distinguished patroness of the farm, the natural shyness and reticence
+of the young musician, was quickly dispelled. To Fern, it was remarkable
+how eloquently and interestingly he could talk upon almost every topic
+she chose to introduce. On the subject of ethical, social, inventive and
+educational work, as exemplified by the different phases of club life at
+the farm; Gilbert was at his best. He spoke with such enthusiasm and
+perfect knowledge of details that Fern Fenwick was profoundly impressed.
+She then and there determined, at the first convenient opportunity, to
+have Fillmore Flagg relate to her more in detail, the many incidents
+connected with his farm life, and how this interesting boy had managed
+in so short a time, to make himself such a universal favorite with the
+farm people, both old and young.
+
+That night before retiring, Gilbert told his mother in confidence, that
+Miss Fenwick was the brightest, most beautiful and most lovable woman he
+had ever met. "Tell me truly, Mamma! Do you think she is really in love
+with Mr. Flagg? I hope it may be true! For I know he deserves to win the
+love of the best and most charming woman that ever was born!"
+
+While this confidential interview between mother and son was in
+progress, Fern and Fillmore were speaking of Gilbert in such a way, that
+if overheard by Gertrude Gerrish it would have stirred the pride in her
+mother heart.
+
+"I declare, Fillmore!" said Fern, "to my mind that clever lad, Gilbert
+Gerrish, is one of the most astonishing products of Solaris Farm! You
+have promised to tell me the story of his life here on the farm. I am
+now ready to hear it. At the festival dance I had an opportunity to
+engage him in conversation, and the good fortune to so win his
+confidence, that he could talk to me without embarassment. It was then
+that I discovered what a brilliant intellectual prodigy, eloquent
+talker, skilled musician, and cultured artist he really was. There is
+something mysterious about his strong, intellectual, spiritual nature,
+which has aroused my interest in him, and my sympathy for him, to a
+degree that is very unusual for me. The more I know of him the more I
+wish to win his friendship.
+
+"What a terrible misfortune, that he is so afflicted by the deformity of
+that spinal trouble! I cannot help picturing him as possessed of a
+physique in harmony with his glorious intellectual and spiritual
+unfoldment. How naturally then, he could win the love of some equally
+gifted, noble woman. How happy they could make each other through the
+passing changes of a long and useful life. Aside from my speculative
+fancies, I do wonder what the future has in store for him? How bravely
+he bears himself! He does not seem inclined to be gloomy or
+misanthropical under the burden of his misfortune!"
+
+"I think, my dear Fern, that my story will unravel the mystery. I am
+delighted to find that you have already become interested in Gilbert,
+and have discovered so many of his good qualities! I can assure you that
+he is worthy of your sympathy and friendship! He is a noble fellow!
+Richly endowed, with a remarkable, intuitive, spiritual nature! His
+enthusiasm, persevering efforts and ingenious devices, have contributed
+much towards the success of this co-operative farm. The value and
+variety of his especial work in the department of experimental farming,
+has proved his extraordinary ability, and justly earned for him the
+title of the 'wonder worker of the farm!'
+
+"On account of Gilbert's frail form and sensitive nature, it was deemed
+wise by his ever watchful parents, to give him the protection of an
+isolated home life. For this purpose, a cozy cottage was built in the
+center of its own grounds, some distance away from all other buildings.
+This cottage was charmingly fitted and furnished in such style and taste
+as would satisfy the artistic ideas of this domestic trio, and at the
+same time, afford quiet, retired, spacious rooms, for Gilbert's musical
+and other studies. Rooms where violin and piano practice, at any hour
+that might suit his fancy, could disturb no one.
+
+"Referring to that haunting desire which impresses you to picture
+Gilbert as possessing a magnificent physique, in harmony with his
+brilliant, mental and spiritual unfoldment; I accept it as another proof
+of the growth of his spiritual body to the beautiful proportions you
+seem to see. All psychics who come within the radius of his powerful,
+spiritual aura, sense or see this strong symmetrical body. His
+affectionate and emotional nature is beautifully developed. No one can
+appreciate the graces and charms of a refined, beautiful woman more
+keenly than Gilbert Gerrish! Yet, I know, that in this life, he does not
+for one moment, even dream of a possible marriage with any woman. He is
+loyally devoted to his spiritual ideal!
+
+"For many months, I have been to Gilbert a trusted friend and
+confidential companion. In this capacity, I have learned his story of
+the hidden romance of his young life. This story I will repeat to you as
+an illustration of the high order of his boyish character. It cannot
+fail to increase both your admiration and your respect, for this
+youthful devotee at the shrine of love.
+
+"When Gilbert was ten years old, while attending school at St. Louis, he
+became acquainted with Rita Estelle Ringwood. She was in many ways a
+remarkable girl; only two months younger than Gilbert. Tall and
+straight, with a well rounded figure, already as large as a maid of
+fourteen, Rita gave promise of an early development into a lovely woman.
+With a large, finely formed head, crowned by a luxuriant growth of soft,
+thick, wavy, chestnut hair; a smooth, creamy complexion, pleasing
+features, firm mouth and well rounded chin; large, full, soft, brown
+eyes, unusually expressive; a strong, well turned white throat and neck,
+symmetrical shoulders, perfectly formed hands and feet; and a well
+poised, graceful carriage, she appeared to Gilbert as some divine
+creature. From the first moment of meeting, a strong bond of mutual
+attraction drew them together. If kept long apart, both became nervous
+and restless. When again united, they were quickly at peace with
+themselves and all the world. By a strange coincidence, as it
+transpired; Rita's parents lived in a house just across the street,
+almost in the front of the one occupied by the Gerrish family. Through
+the children, the parents soon became intimate friends. As Gilbert had
+never cared to play with boys of his own age, either on the streets or
+at school, it was natural under the circumstances, that he should devote
+himself entirely to Rita, as the only congenial playmate he had ever
+known. Very soon, as a consequence, the twain were almost always
+together, either in one home or the other. They read or studied from the
+same book, often pausing to discuss some question of more than usual
+interest. In music, they had the same tastes, the same predominating
+passion for it. Gilbert soon taught Rita to use the violin; while Rita
+in turn taught Gilbert to play the piano. Each could then alternate, in
+playing violin accompaniments to piano music. Much practice soon enabled
+these artistic children, to render such duets with thrilling effect. In
+so delightful an occupation, hours passed swiftly by. A series of
+selections were chosen for evening concerts. The parents were called in
+to enjoy them. In the eyes of the parents, both children were manifestly
+helpful to each other. Rita never seemed to notice Gilbert's misshapen
+body. She evidently responded, only to impressions emanating from his
+more perfect and dominant, spiritual body. Gilbert was conscious of this
+fact, and always seemed at ease in her presence. As the months flew
+swiftly by; these strange children grew more devotedly fond of each
+other. Three summers had witnessed the growing together of these two
+harmoniously attuned souls.
+
+"The day following Gilbert's thirteenth birthday, he was depressed by
+some overshadowing cloud of sadness. He could not explain it, nor, could
+he throw it off. The sequel came the following week, when a great wave
+of pestilence, in the form of malignant typhoid fever, swept over the
+city. It claimed Rita as one of its first victims.
+
+"Heart broken! Rita's parents hastily returned to New York, where,
+surrounded by early associations, they vainly and hopelessly struggled
+to forget their terrible bereavement.
+
+"To Gilbert, the shock was frightful! His parents, George and Gertrude
+Gerrish were alarmed. They feared for his life! He wandered about with
+dry, staring eyes, like one in a trance. He could not weep! For days, he
+could neither eat nor drink! At last, came the crisis! Reason seemed
+about to leave her throne! Then it happened, that Gilbert grew strangely
+calm and hopeful.
+
+"In a few short days the improvement was magical. His beautiful eyes
+shone with the fires of new inspiration! Questioned by his parents, he
+assured them that Rita still lived. He knew that she was not dead!
+Clairvoyantly, he had seen her, more beautiful than ever.
+Clairaudiently, he had heard, over and over again, the sweet familiar
+tones of her voice. All this through his own mediumship and more
+besides. Controlling his hand and arm, in her own identical
+hand-writing, she had written to him long messages filled with loving
+consolation, bidding him look hopefully forward to a happy reunion in
+the land of the spirit, the home of the soul! Almost nightly in dreams,
+she came to him, when for happy hours they were again united in the
+enjoyment of the old familiar companionship, so dear to his waking
+memories.
+
+"Through Gilbert's mediumship, his parents became spiritualists. This
+happened some months before I visited them in St. Louis, on my first
+trip west, from Newburgh. Some months later, the family came to Solaris.
+
+"In a recent conversation, speaking to me of his life work, his hopes
+and his ambitions, Gilbert said: 'Fillmore, I know that my life here
+will be short. I know that I have a work to do here on this farm, for
+the future benefit of my brothers and sisters in earth life. I know that
+in spirit life, Rita waits for me to join her, when that work is
+finished. I now realize that swiftly passing days, weeks, months and
+years, are precious portions of time which I must improve to the utmost.
+I know that this primary school of life has many useful lessons, which I
+must master as quickly as possible. I know that the sooner they are
+mastered, the sooner I shall be prepared to enter a higher class in
+spirit life. I know that as a spirit, in that land of golden sunlight,
+freed from the burden of this unsightly prison of flesh, I shall be
+clothed in a spiritual body as symmetrically perfect as my highest ideal
+can picture. I know that thus clothed, and crowned with the perpetual
+youth of the spirit; I shall again be united with my darling Rita, never
+more to part. Together, in obedience to the law of an infinite love, we
+shall go hand in hand, up the paths of wisdom which lead to the summits
+of the hills of everlasting progress. I know that during my sojourn
+here, when I am weary and most need the healing balm of her presence, my
+Rita can come to cheer and help me. Knowing all this, life is full of
+promise! I have no time to be sad or lonely! The world is bright! I am
+ambitious to make its people my friends, by creating for them, better
+and brighter conditions for the enjoyment of life.'
+
+"This, my dear Fern! is the romance, which like some secret charm,
+Gilbert wears in his heart. His armor against all evil! The bright star
+of his ambition! The beacon light of his hope!"
+
+"The romance is indeed a most extraordinary one! The story is
+exquisitely beautiful! Its pathos fills my heart with both joy and
+sadness! In the development of his mediumship, following his
+bereavement, how like my own, has been his experience! This explains my
+sympathetic desire for his friendship. What a noble fellow he is! I
+shall be proud to claim him as my friend! Now Fillmore, you must tell me
+of his work for the farm. I am anxious to know more of the peculiar
+methods of this inspired genius."
+
+"Very well! In the center of the large garden at the rear of the Gerrish
+cottage, is a roomy workshop, built for Gilbert's sole use and
+occupancy. Alone in this shop, he has mapped out for himself such a
+course of study, experimental work, and industrial amusement, as might
+suit the fancy of his swiftly changing moods; or conform to the passing
+whims of his busy brain. To the combined interests of Solaris farm, he
+is intensely devoted. To keep a realistic picture of the farm always in
+his mind, he has drawn an immense map, large enough to completely cover
+the wall space on one side of the shop. He subdivided, colored and named
+the subdivisions on the map, after a bold, brilliant scheme of his own.
+The result is a matter of astonishment to all beholders. The map seems
+to possess some charm of attraction, which no one can explain. On each
+subdivision from time to time, Gilbert has tacked cards filled with
+finely written notes, setting forth from his own standpoint, a history
+of the subdivision, its peculiarities, and capabilities of the different
+soils; character of crops and fertilizers, together with such
+suggestions for perfection or improvement, as his thorough knowledge of
+chemistry might determine; or his keen, analytical, observation of the
+crops produced, might indicate.
+
+"This map of itself, is a most valuable work; involving an immense
+amount of intelligent, skillful labor; also much study of chemistry, and
+of horticultural and agricultural authorities. As an indication of our
+appreciation of its value, this map has been taken as a suggestive model
+for the completion of those made and kept by the clerical force employed
+in the farm office.
+
+"On the south side of his shop, two large doors open into a roomy,
+glass-roofed hot house, containing a very unique collection of potted
+plants, which, under the skillful hands of this young enthusiast, are
+undergoing the different stages of experimental treatment, such as he
+may deem necessary, to prove or disprove his many pet theories or
+fancies, in regard to care, growth, insect enemies, and to application
+of electric light, sun light, heat, moisture and fertilizers. Each plant
+bears a fruitful crop of cards, giving a summary of results and
+conclusions. Each one of these cards may contain, in skeleton form, the
+subject matter of a brief essay, brimful of valuable suggestions and
+interesting statements. Sooner or later, these essays, signed
+'Experimenter,' are liable to find their way into the contribution box
+at the door of the Press Club.
+
+"Gilbert's collection of birds and insects, forms another interesting
+feature of his industrial museum. These collections were made, arranged
+and classified, in order to afford opportunities for making a careful
+study of the insect enemies of his plants, and also to discover what
+birds were most destructive to the different insects. The birds he kept
+in cages; the insects in glass-covered boxes.
+
+"The care of these things, and the time and labor necessary to collect,
+classify and arrange them, would to most people, prove a grievous
+burden. To Gilbert, it was simply another mode of recreation and
+amusement. On the live insects, he tried the effects of such chemicals
+as might destroy them without injury to the growing plants. To his caged
+birds, Gilbert fed his bugs, worms and moths, carefully noting the kinds
+they most eagerly swallowed. His conclusions were always briefly written
+out. They proved a perfect mine of valuable information, to be used in
+perfecting better methods for farm culture.
+
+"Aside from this kind of work; in the departments of his shop devoted to
+experiments with clays, mica, soils, minerals and the various powers,
+attractions and affinities of electricity, his constructive ideation and
+inspired mentality, always gave him an excellent crop of good results.
+Altogether, such superior work, carried forward in his own unique way,
+has added many hundreds of dollars to the annual income of the farm. In
+the department of experimental farming, as I have before stated, his
+work has proved most brilliant and helpful; generally leading to the
+adoption of many improved methods for successfully selecting, planting
+and growing these new crops.
+
+"Considered as a whole, such a variety of valuable contributions have
+convinced our people, that physically speaking, one of the farm's
+weakest units, under the fostering development of co-operative
+organization, is capable of becoming one of its most valued productive
+workers. The wonder of it all, is, that Gilbert is able to accomplish
+such important results, while following a scheme he has devised as a
+source of personal diversion!
+
+"Turning to Gilbert's intellectual, artistic and esthetic life, we
+discover that this gifted boy finds the same source of comfort and
+amusement in his devotion to the art of music. In this branch of
+accomplishments, you, my dear Fern! have had occasion to observe how
+important a factor he has become, in organized social life at Solaris.
+He is such a general favorite, that without an effort, he has been able
+to so impress the strong individuality of his noble character upon the
+minds of our farm people, that the effect for good has been truly
+wonderful!"
+
+"This is exceedingly interesting, Fillmore! How charmed I am with your
+completed story of this marvelously gifted boy! All that you have told
+me about Gilbert, only seems to confirm my previous convictions, that he
+is really one of the most astonishing products of Solaris farm! No
+wonder he is such a general favorite! He has nobly earned the title!
+With such intelligence and genius, possessed, embodied and expressed by
+its weaker units; is it any cause for wonder, that the success of
+Solaris as a co-operative colony, is so pronounced?"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+OUR HERO AND HEROINE DISCUSS AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS.
+
+
+On the day following the festival, we find Fillmore Flagg in the office
+of the farm, going over the books of the company with Fern Fenwick. To
+most women, such a task would soon prove unbearably monotonous and
+tiresome. However, she neither grew restless or inattentive. At all
+times on the alert to note each new point of interest; her questions on
+every subject indicated a remarkably intelligent conception of the
+general plan of the work. Finally, having satisfied herself that she
+understood the status of the farm well enough to enable her to propound
+her list of queries in the proper order, and in such a manner, as would
+most successfully bring to her the information she wished to obtain:
+with note-book in hand, she commenced by saying: "Now Fillmore, I am
+ready to take up my series of questions about Solaris, which you have
+kindly consented to answer. I promise in advance to be good; to try to
+refrain from untimely interruptions, by asking a host of irrelevant
+questions at inopportune moments!
+
+"First, I wish you would tell me just what is represented by the one
+thousand shares of capital stock, of the Solaris Farm Company?"
+
+"The corporation, as you know, is so limited," said Fillmore, "that the
+land cannot be sold, and the stock can only be sold to the Company;
+nevertheless, the original cost of the land is covered by the stock. The
+entire capitalization of $250,000, which I think will fairly represent
+the financial status of the farm at the end of the first five years, is
+divided as follows:
+
+
+     Purchase price of land                $ 32,000
+
+     Improvements                            68,000
+
+     Buildings                              100,000
+
+     Live stock, equipment and machinery     50,000
+                                           --------
+                                           $250,000
+
+
+Of the last named item, about $25,000 is estimated for machinery.
+However, this amount does not fully represent its real value. In many
+instances, it only gives the actual cost of the raw material used in
+construction. This capitalization does not seem so large, when we
+consider the small individual holdings. Having a par value of $250 a
+share, we have only $500, in the two shares, for each one of the five
+hundred co-operators. I think it has been wisely determined by a
+majority vote, that as the resources of the farm continue to develop and
+mature, the increase of profits shall come to the individual stockholder
+in the shape of larger wages, instead of by dividends on stock. Although
+this is not a money-making institution, and was not so intended from the
+beginning; a fact properly emphasized by the foregoing. Yet, by the way
+of arriving at some estimate of its future value, I feel safe in
+predicting, that, if the stock should be offered in the markets of the
+world, and dividends declared in the usual way, twenty years hence,
+these certificates of stock would be worth $1,500 per share. In other
+words, would have doubled in value six times during that period."
+
+"Judging by what I already know of the farm and its resources," said
+Fern, "I quite agree with you in this view of the matter.
+
+"In considering the future needs of such a large number of
+co-operators, which in ten years may be increased by pensioners and
+children, to one thousand people; do you think this farm is large enough
+to meet the demand?"
+
+"For the purpose in view it is ample," said Fillmore. "Operated in
+connection with so many allied industries, I think a farm of 5,000 acres
+would be sufficient. That would be ten acres for each one. Here in
+Solaris, we have 12-8/10 acres of land for every adult member of the
+company. By carrying the process of intensive farming to a very high
+state of perfection; Prof. Grandeau, at Capelle, France, has actually
+demonstrated, that it is possible to grow 8-1/2 bushels of wheat--one
+man's bread food for the year--on one-twentieth part of an acre of land.
+Armed with so many advantages, with better conditions, superior methods,
+and more intelligent workers; I feel sure we can easily accomplish here,
+all that Grandeau has done in France, and more. Besides, you must
+remember, that we shall have the additional support of quite a large
+number of profitable industries, to help us in meeting the demands of an
+increased number of consumers."
+
+"That sounds logical and reasonable," said Fern. "I now remember, that
+while traveling in Europe with my father, gathering agricultural
+statistics: the Capelle experiments were brought to our attention at
+that time, as worthy of careful consideration. I am greatly pleased to
+know that you are already familiar with them. To continue the subject, I
+wish to say that I am much impressed with the outlook for intensive
+farming at Solaris. Aided by the wonderful power of applied co-operative
+thinking, combined with your careful and comprehensive system of
+book-keeping, which embraces every field and department of the farm! I
+believe that ten years hence, you will be able to give to the world,
+some very valuable statistics on the whole subject of farming, both
+intensive and diversified.
+
+"I have noticed with an unusual degree of interest, the apparently
+lavish use of electric power in operating the factory works and farm
+machinery. I am really quite curious to know just how it is generated."
+
+"That is a very large question!" said Fillmore. "At different times
+since the commencement of our work, we have used three methods for
+generating electricity. First, the old fashioned steam dynamo. Second,
+the direct conversion of coal into electricity. Third, the gathering of
+great quantities of this subtle force from the atmosphere, through a
+certain vibratory action, set up by intense concentration of the sun's
+rays. As a result of a vast deal of co-operative thinking and careful
+experimentation; the last named process, has been so perfected and
+cheapened, as to entirely supersede the first two. The powerful
+batteries of Solaris concentrators, which you see around the
+power-house, and at various points on the farm, are important factors in
+this work. I confess, that I am rather proud of the remarkable success,
+which we have achieved in this line of invention. When I gave a title to
+the farm, I had a premonition, that solar heat and force would be so
+successfully harnessed to both industrial and agricultural work, that
+the suggestive name of Solaris, would soon become as famous, as it was
+fitting and well earned.
+
+"In applying this power to all kinds of farm and factory work, we have
+succeeded far beyond my most sanguine expectations. With a plant almost
+entirely built by our own co-operative labor, we are able to generate an
+abundance of cheap power, which can be easily and safely conducted to
+the most distant portions of the farm. This power is readily available
+at any desired point, and for all kinds of work; becoming the magic
+motor by which we operate trains of trolley cars, for handling grain,
+hay, corn and all heavy crops; great gang-plows, rollers, harrows,
+cultivators, planters, drills, reapers, threshers and motor wagons; all
+so perfectly constructed and so easily controlled; that with them a
+woman, fittingly dressed and gloved, protected from the heat of the sun
+by a canopy, comfortably seated on cushions and springs, may accomplish
+the roughest and heaviest kind of farm work, without fatigue or
+discomfort. In fact, our women soon find it the most delightfully,
+fascinating work on the farm.
+
+"In connection with such a powerful motor, a single person, operating
+one of these improved agricultural machines, can do an amount of work in
+six hours, which under the old system would require ten hours of severe
+toil by six men and twelve horses. Of course, such machinery can only be
+produced and operated by large co-operative farms like this; with a
+carefully chosen force of co-operators, who are thinkers as well as
+workers; who are intellectually, physically and socially prepared to
+invent and construct machines that are perfectly fitted to do this
+particular kind of work."
+
+"Really!" said Fern, "this is as interesting as it is remarkable! This
+sun-generated force, this magic motor, so perfectly adjusted to
+agricultural work, under the test of practical use; which has proved so
+easily controlled; together with the tireless host of wonder-working
+machines, which this force has called into being; is truly a marvel
+worthy of the twentieth century!
+
+"Tell me, Fillmore! Why is it that these things have not been done
+before?"
+
+"There are many reasons. I think I can give you the principal one. From
+a remote period of time, a large majority of the people of this planet
+have gained a living by following agricultural pursuits. Bowed down
+under the weight of severe toil, hopeless under the pressure of a
+belief, that labor was a curse which they might not seek to escape;
+confined by ignorance to a narrow sphere of action, which kept them from
+looking upward and outward; it is not strange, that so many passing
+generations of these people, should never once dream of adopting a
+series of progressive changes for the betterment of their condition.
+
+"Such people were incapable of understanding, that, in order to secure
+the best and most successful results from agricultural work, it requires
+a systematic application of the highest order of brain work: that this
+brain work, must inspire a harmonious collection of trained, muscular
+workers, operating under the most favorable conditions. By the way of a
+contrast, how helpless were the lives of these farmers! As a rule they
+worked under the most discouraging conditions, distrustful and envious,
+uneducated and narrow minded; how could they be prepared to comprehend
+that basic law of progress, which is embodied in the idea of unselfish
+co-operation?
+
+"For these reasons, co-operative thinking and co-operative farming, have
+not heretofore been successfully combined. Here and now, in the first
+decade of the twentieth century, a few unselfish souls, the advance
+guard of the coming army, responding to the pressure of progressive
+evolution, have risen to such intellectual heights as has enabled them
+to discover, that by the aid of a harmonious union of thought and labor,
+a collection of people, working the soil unselfishly together, can
+easily attain results which, the most brilliant individual effort, armed
+with the wealth of a millionaire, could never hope to accomplish.
+Inspired with this idea, the people of Solaris, as pioneers in the work,
+are striving earnestly to demonstrate the absolute success of
+co-operative farming."
+
+"What I have seen with my own eyes, I know as a verity!" said Fern,
+enthusiastically. "Therefore I feel like shouting in the ears of our
+people: Well done, good and faithful servants in the cause of progress!
+The victory is already won! It is yours!
+
+"Your explanation of the cause of the late coming of practical
+co-operation in agriculture, appeals to my mind, as a very clear one.
+That the ignorance and selfishness of the individual, has from the
+beginning, proved the real obstacle, is now quite plain to me.
+
+"However, returning to my list of questions. How is it, that the fields
+and cultivated grounds at Solaris, are so free from weeds?"
+
+"Ah!" said Fillmore. "The answer to that question, is another argument
+in favor of co-operative farming. Weeds have always been counted by
+farmers, as among the worst of the pests which they have been obliged to
+contend with. Under the most adverse conditions, weeds will grow,
+flourish, and ripen an appalling quantity of seed; where all useful
+plants will languish and finally perish. To keep them down, is a task
+which requires a great deal of hard work. To destroy them, root and
+branch, is a problem which has occupied the minds of our people for the
+past thirty months. After much thoughtful work, we have reached a
+solution.
+
+"During the period of frost, from the first of December to the first of
+March, the weedy ground is thoroughly stirred several times. After each
+stirring, the ground is swept by a broad stream of concentrated
+heat-rays--both light and dark. These rays are generated by a number of
+batteries of Solaris mirrors, or great sun glasses. This operation soon
+warms the ground and causes the weeds to put forth a tender growth.
+After such a growth, a week of frosty weather kills it down. This
+process is repeated until the weeds are all gone. When the necessary
+frosts do not appear, or when the work is carried on during warmer
+weather, a scorching from the sun glasses, kills the weeds even more
+effectively than frost. In this way the cultivated ground on the farm,
+has been entirely freed from weeds. As a result, the yield of crops has
+been largely increased, while the labor of cultivation has been
+correspondingly reduced. That back-aching work of hoeing, has been
+almost entirely dispensed with. Machine culture does the work.
+
+"The great advantage gained by cropping soil free from weeds, is most
+apparent in case of wheat culture. In such soils, the wheat can be
+deeply sown by the drill, beyond the reach of predatory birds. This
+develops a strong root-growth in the young plant, which as a consequence
+requires more space. To meet this demand, care is taken to have the
+drill-rows made one foot apart--running north and south. These wide rows
+allow free access of air and sunlight to the soil, which may then be
+cultivated. Under the old system this space would be full of weeds;
+therefore impracticable. This gives the young wheat a chance to spread
+out, to send up from twenty to forty stout stems from the root-system of
+a single grain of seed. The growing stems become more sturdy, bear
+larger heads, heads with more and larger kernels, of heavier, brighter
+wheat. With this culture, the yield is increased one-third--many times
+one-half--and the quality wonderfully improved. Fully one-half of the
+usual quantity of seed is saved.
+
+"By repeating this method for a few years, carefully choosing the seed
+for each planting from the best kernels borne by the largest heads, the
+ordinary wheat-crop, without extra fertilization, may easily be doubled
+two and one-half times; while the quality of the entire crop is raised
+to the grade of extra fine, which will readily sell at fancy prices for
+seed wheat. The net gain, is a large cash balance in favor of
+cultivating a weedless soil. What is true of wheat culture in such
+soils, is true in a large measure with most other crops; more especially
+with corn, cotton and all kinds of garden crops."
+
+"Stop a moment, Fillmore!
+
+"Did I understand you to say that these immense discs, these mammoth,
+weed-scorching mirrors, were made here at Solaris? How can such
+expensive things be made, for a price that would allow so many to be
+used?"
+
+"Yes, these concentrating mirrors and burning glasses combined, are the
+product of the inventive genius and skillful work of our people. A
+combination of brain and muscular work so successful, that these discs,
+although they are of such great size and weight, are quickly and
+cheaply made from thick plates of flat glass, which we manufacture from
+our abundant supply of excellent sand! The quality of the glass in these
+plates is of the best; clear, soft, and tough, just the kind that will
+most readily take the proper concave and convex surfaces, when treated
+by the evenly applied heat of swiftly revolving electric brushes. With
+plenty of strong machinery to handle these heavy plates, a few skilled
+workers, can with ease, soon transform them into perfect, lense-shaped
+discs. Similar discs, made by the slow, tedious process of nineteenth
+century methods, would cost many thousands of dollars for each one."
+
+"You have answered my question both briefly and perfectly! I recognize
+in these great mirrors, a swift, wonder-working agency, that shall make
+possible a new system of farming; which means, in the improved
+conditions for mankind that must follow, a revolution in social methods,
+calculated to bring them quickly into harmony with a rate of progress
+demanded by the twentieth century.
+
+"I will take up another question. It is in connection with the large
+amount of cultivated ground devoted to vegetables. How do you manage to
+make it profitable to grow such a quantity of perishable things?"
+
+"That is another important question, which will require an answer so
+lengthy, that perhaps you may grow weary before I have finished.
+However, I will try to be brief. During the past year, we have taken
+from the ground devoted to vegetable growing, more than 100,000 bushels
+of cabbage, cauliflower, onions, beets, mangel-wurzel, carrots,
+parsnips, salsify, potatoes, sweet-potatoes, cassava, turnips, kohlrabi
+and artichokes. The best part of the story is, that this heavy crop has
+proved profitable, to a degree far beyond our expectations! As a rule,
+this class of vegetables, so heavy and so perishable, cannot be
+profitably grown in large quantities, except in locations near a large
+market town. This advantage, Solaris does not possess. To overcome this
+difficulty, was an additional task, which must be conquered, by the
+allied forces of co-operative thinking and co-operative working. In the
+solution of this puzzling question which was finally reached, the great
+mirrors and burning glasses of the Solaris concentrators, were again
+called upon to play an important part.
+
+"The first necessity, was to reduce the weight of the vegetables, and at
+the same time, to arrest all tendency to decay. The second was to
+protect them from the attack of insects, by placing them in neat,
+strong, insect-proof packages.
+
+"A large curing establishment was built and equipped with machinery;
+most of which was made at Solaris, from especially devised patterns.
+Convenient trolley lines, connected the curing-house with the fields.
+The vegetables, crisp and fresh from the ground, were quickly brought to
+the washing machines, on trains of cars laden with shallow trays, which
+permitted them to be swiftly handled without bruising. In these
+machines, they were thoroughly cleansed, scraped, and freed from tops,
+rootlets and imperfections. This process complete, they were placed in
+trays on traveling carriers, which delivered them to the dicing
+machines. In the dicing machines, they were soon reduced to inch-cubes.
+
+"In passing from these machines, the cubes fell on traveling screens of
+fine wire, which formed the first of a long series of drying rollers.
+The drying rollers, on the way to the packing rooms in the large
+store-house, passed through a long system of sheet-iron conduits, which
+were well heated by the concentrated rays of the sun from the mirrors
+and sunglasses. So well did the drying rollers do their work, that by
+the time the cubes had reached the store-house, and were delivered by
+the elevators into the storing-bins in the packing house, they were
+reduced to a dry, hard kernel. They had lost three-fourths in bulk, and
+about the same proportion in weight.
+
+"The funnel-shaped bottoms to the storing-bins were so arranged as to be
+above the long rows of packing tables. A series of graduated spouts,
+delivered the cured vegetables to the packers, who, standing or sitting
+as they might prefer, could, with but little effort and much speed, fill
+the prepared boxes with the little cubes.
+
+"These boxes, of a uniform size and shape, were made from thick layers
+of heavy straw-paper, made stiff and firm under high pressure. The farm
+in manufacturing them, was able to utilize large quantities of surplus
+straw from the grain fields, which could not be used as forage. In the
+corners of the boxes, between layers of paper, while they were being
+molded into shape, were inserted small, triangular pieces of wood. These
+bevel-shaped strips were cut six inches in length, just the depth of the
+boxes, in which they served as upright cornerposts. The shallow covers
+fitted each box with a telescope joint.
+
+"In the process of box-making, the layers of paper were saturated with a
+chemical, germicide solution, which made the boxes insect-proof; yet,
+which would not odorize, nor in any way injure the contents. In the
+process of packing, each box and cover was lined with thin sheets of
+parafine paper, as an additional guard against moisture. When the boxes
+were filled and sealed, they were strongly coopered, by adding four thin
+laths of strong wood. These laths, one-eighth of an inch thick, two
+inches wide, and just the length of the box; two at the bottom, and two
+at the top, were securely nailed to the cornerposts; thus completing a
+package which was cheap, strong, light, durable, rodent and
+insect-proof. With a capacity of a half-bushel, it weighed only five
+pounds. Filled with cubes, the gross weight was but thirty-five pounds.
+An ideal package, which could be piled high in transportation or
+store-house without injury; the upright cornerposts taking all the
+pressure.
+
+"The half-bushel or thirty pounds of dried cubes in each box, represent
+two bushels of fresh vegetables. Cured and packed in this way, they
+reach distant markets, sound, sweet, clean and nutritious. No waste, no
+worms, no musty smell, no decay! Frost cannot hurt them, heat preserves
+them! For long voyages, army and navy use, mining, lumbering, and
+hunting outfits, they are simply invaluable! For all classes of
+consumers, they are cheaper, cleaner and more wholesome than the
+ordinary stale and wilted vegetables, for sale in the city markets! We
+have named these cubes, 'Solaris Vegetable Concentrates,' a title which
+we have copyrighted. The packages readily wholesale at 75 cents, to be
+retailed at one dollar. At these prices, they yield a handsome profit to
+the farm.
+
+"Last year we placed hundreds of sample packages on the general market,
+which soon proved the excellence of the goods, and later brought heavy
+orders for this year; even more than we can fill, for many of the
+varieties. A valuable hint to us, that we must devote more ground to
+growing those particular kinds.
+
+"Our 'Solaris Mixture Concentrates' are almost equally popular. We also
+have a growing demand for our 'Solaris Stock Food,' which we put in
+cheaper packages, to wholesale and retail at 50 and 75 cents. This
+mixture is made up of equal proportions of dried cubes of potatoes,
+carrots, cassava, and mangel-wurzel. It has proved the acme of a
+healthful, fattening stock-food; especially beneficial in counteracting
+the evil effects of heavy grain-feeding; or in cases of emergency, to
+take the place of forage or cut-straw food.
+
+"In a weedless soil, much of the heavy labor of growing vegetables is
+eliminated. In curing and preparing them for market in this way, a great
+amount of light, pleasant work, is available for our women co-operators.
+Considered as a whole, this vegetable scheme is one of the notable
+achievements of Solaris farm, of which the members of the company are
+justly proud."
+
+"This is surely a most excellent work! It is a clear demonstration of
+what important results may be attained, by the application of thinking
+to agricultural work. In this instance, the lesson of your brilliant
+success, impresses my mind as a most convincing argument in favor of
+co-operative farming. I feel sure that it will appeal to the multitude
+with the same force. It is but another illustration of the old saying,
+'Nothing succeeds like success!' A few such examples will serve to
+overthrow the prejudices of a thousand years! They will win for you a
+host of followers in the cause of co-operative farming.
+
+"Now Fillmore, let us consider another matter. At the time we made our
+tour of inspection, my attention was attracted to groups of oddly
+constructed barns, scattered here and there about the farm. What are
+these buildings, and for what purpose are they used?"
+
+"Those are curing-barns. They mark another wide departure from the usual
+methods of ordinary farming. For many years it has been a ruinously,
+wasteful custom with farmers, to allow their crops of corn, grain and
+hay, to stand in the fields while curing. All, subject meanwhile to the
+destructive effects of storms, dews and all kinds of adverse weather,
+which as a rule, destroyed much of the crop, and reduced the remainder
+to the condition of an inferior grade.
+
+"By the use of these barns, we are able to inaugurate an entirely
+different system, which succeeds admirably. These barns, located near
+the grain fields, are constructed with strong frames. They are both tall
+and wide, and so anchored to their foundations as not to be overthrown
+by high winds. Each roof is supplied with a series of latticed
+ventilators. In building the side walls, every alternate ten feet, was
+left open from ground to roof. These open spaces were fitted with roller
+screens of jointed, wooden slats, operated by weights and springs, which
+allowed the interior to be well lighted and thoroughly ventilated. These
+screens could all be raised or lowered at pleasure. While the barns were
+being filled, they were all open.
+
+"As the fields of grain commenced to ripen, while the straw was still
+green and full of sap, and the swollen kernels were just passing out of
+the dough stage of maturing; with the aid of a large force of workers,
+operating improved machinery, entire fields of standing grain at just
+precisely the proper stage of maturity, could be transferred to the
+shelter of these barns in a single day. As the heavy green bundles of
+grain were delivered from the fields, to the adjustable elevators
+working through the open spaces of the barns, from either side, these
+bundles were carried to the hands of the rick-builders, who piled them
+into narrow ricks five feet in width, across the barn and up to the
+roof. As the ricks grew in height, strong wire screens were hooked to
+the dividing posts which marked the boundaries of the ricks. These
+screens kept the bundles in place, and the ricks securely upright. When
+the barns were filled in this way, the ricks were separated by four feet
+of open space, with a ventilator in the roof for each pair of ricks and
+spaces.
+
+"When the grain crops were thus housed without waste from shelling, the
+curing process went forward swiftly and securely. The advantages gained,
+were many. The wheat straw, full of sap when harvested, in curing
+slowly, kept the plump kernels of grain from shrinking, while it left
+them with clear, smooth, thin skins, and a quality, which produced less
+bran and more gluten, in the flour they would yield when ground. The
+kernels were all more uniform in size, larger, firmer and fairer; would
+all grade as number one. No sprouted wheat! No must! No blight! No rust!
+
+"This was also true of oats and barley. The straw came from the improved
+threshers, in straight, compact bundles, thoroughly freed from grain,
+fragrant and bright, almost as nutritious for forage as hay. In fact,
+this straw, in such excellent shape for cutting, feeding, storing, or
+transportation, possessed more than twice the selling value of the best
+of ordinary straw. The oat straw, being softer and more pliable, was
+still more valuable as forage. The barley straw, less desirable for
+stock food, was sent to the paper mill for the use of the box factory.
+By this method of harvesting and curing grain, the increase in quality
+and selling value, was largely augmented. The general result was a
+marked saving of grain, time, labor and money.
+
+"In cutting and curing the hay crops, the same kind of barns were used.
+The loosely packed hay in the tall, thin ricks, was soon dry enough to
+bale, and then be transferred to the storing barns; leaving room for the
+corn crop which was to follow. Hay cured in this way is superior to
+anything on the market, and always brings tip-top prices!
+
+"In curing corn, more time and wider ricks are necessary. The corn could
+be cut earlier, thus leaving the ground free to be prepared for the
+succeeding crop of fall wheat or late vegetables. During stormy weather,
+after this slower curing process was complete, a jolly army of huskers
+invaded the barns. The ripe corn, free from husk, was carefully assorted
+and stored in the ventilated bins prepared for it. The selected husks
+were packed and baled, ready for market. The stalks were stripped and
+topped by a clever machine. The excellent forage thus accumulated, was
+baled and stored. The pith in the large part of the stalk, was then
+extracted by another machine. These piths were then treated to a
+water-proofing process, sent to a shop on the farm, and made up into
+life preservers. Both life preservers and life rafts, made from pith
+treated in this way, proved lighter, cheaper, and more buoyant than
+those made from cork. This, you will observe is another profitable
+industry, added to the financial resources of Solaris. It is also an
+addition to the fitting employments for women.
+
+"A still more desirable employment for our women co-operators, was found
+at the grain mill, where wheat, oats, and barley were transformed into
+popular brands of 'Solaris Breakfast Food.' Thus prepared, the market
+value of a bushel of grain was increased four fold.
+
+"A new food preparation, from a mixture of pop-corn with equal parts of
+thoroughly ground, roasted sweet corn, is really an excellent article of
+diet. In small, neat packages, this healthy and attractive food can be
+sold at a large profit.
+
+"All of these sources of profit, naturally grow out of the new methods
+of harvesting and housing grain, which is made possible by the curing
+barns. While in appearance, these barns may not prove attractive, yet, I
+think you will readily acknowledge that they are very useful buildings;
+buildings which Solaris could not well do without."
+
+"Really! Fillmore, I think these buildings are very fine! More than
+that, they are wonderfully well adapted to the purpose for which they
+were constructed! In this respect they certainly excel in usefulness,
+all other classes of barns. In your description of them, and of the new
+methods in harvesting; I have been as much interested and entertained as
+though you were relating some fascinating romance. Indeed, I have been
+so absorbed, that I fear my poor note-book has been sadly neglected!
+
+"How much land do you devote to cotton growing? How has co-operative
+methods, affected its culture as a paying crop?"
+
+"Last year, we planted twelve hundred acres in cotton. By the use of
+choice seed, a weedless soil, improved methods in the destruction of
+insect enemies, a better selection of fibre-producing fertilizers, a
+less wasteful plan of planting, and a more careful culture, we have
+increased the yield per acre from 300 to 500, and in a few instances to
+550 pounds. When the crop was picked and ginned, we had twelve hundred
+bales of fine cotton. The quality of the fibre in the whole lot, was so
+excellent and so uniformly well ripened, that we were offered two cents
+per pound above the ruling price of ordinary cotton. As a result, this
+one crop gave the farm a cash income of $65,000. $60,000 for the fibre,
+and $5,000 for the seed, oil and oil cake. Choice seed for planting, was
+a large item in the last named amount.
+
+"Heretofore, the great difficulty experienced by single farmers in
+growing large crops of cotton, has arisen from the want of sufficient
+help during the picking season. At Solaris, we always have an abundance
+of help. If the needs of the work seem to demand it, we can put two
+six-hour reliefs of pickers into the field each day, with 200 pickers in
+each relief. By working such a force, a large crop can soon be gathered
+without waste or damage. The pickers, all receiving the same daily
+wages, have a pocket interest in saving the cotton, therefore clean,
+careful picking, with a view of preserving a high grade of fibre, soon
+becomes the rule. This is an important matter, as green, immature fibre
+is worthless for the purpose of making a strong, durable thread or
+fabric; therefore pickers must be sufficiently intelligent, to
+understand why they should select only the thoroughly ripened cotton.
+
+"Care is taken to make the pickers as comfortable as possible. For this
+purpose, broad, movable awnings, are provided to protect them from sun
+and showers. Under such circumstances, the picking season becomes one of
+fun and frolic, to which our co-operators, look forward with rejoicing.
+Six hours in each day spent in such light, pleasant work, is hardly
+regarded as toil. Yet, the amount of cotton picked by each individual,
+measured by the number of hours employed, is fully up to the standard
+set by good pickers, under the old system of long hours. The
+nimble-fingered women easily bear off the palm, as the expert pickers.
+If they were paid by the pound, their earnings would be greater than
+those of the men. Judged by such practical work, women cannot much
+longer be classed with the weaker units of an agricultural colony!"
+
+"I consider that, as a very important point, well stated! But pardon me
+Fillmore, for the question! You spoke of better methods for the
+destruction of insect enemies. What are those insects, and how did you
+manage to destroy them?"
+
+"Those that proved the most troublesome, were the cut-worm and
+boll-worm. Both were hatched from the eggs laid by certain kinds of
+moths. During the nights of the egg-laying season, for these moths, they
+were easily trapped and destroyed. By the use of a large number of
+electric light traps, suspended from convenient wires, thousands of
+these insects were lured to destruction before they could deposit their
+eggs. We are encouraged to believe, that a few years of such wholesale
+extermination, will soon rid us of these pests altogether.
+
+"With a view of securing a continuous improvement in the quality of the
+cotton, we propose during the next five years, to carefully select the
+seed for each successive planting, from the largest, most prolific
+stalks, that produce the finest fibre. Reasoning from past experience, I
+think it will not be difficult to obtain a yield at least one-third
+greater than that of last year; which, on account of extra-superior
+quality, will readily sell for a still higher price. A careful reading
+of the annual reports, made by our consuls, who are stationed at the
+principal commercial ports of the world, has taught us, that to sell
+well, American cotton must be baled to meet the requirements of foreign
+markets. These markets demand that we must use a finer, better quality
+of baling burlaps, that will enable us to make closer, stronger,
+smoother packages, such as will at once impress the prospective buyer
+with the fact that they are really fine, because in appearance they are
+so tight, tidy, and attractive. To secure this, a small additional
+expense for baling material, is money well spent.
+
+"Considering cotton as a cash crop, our experience so far, proves it to
+be especially adapted to the needs and methods of co-operative farming.
+A single crop has put money enough into our treasury, to pay more than
+double the purchase price of this farm."
+
+"From your very clear and comprehensive answers to my questions, it
+appears that a co-operative farm, by reason of the number and
+organization of its workers, is equipped to carry on the culture of
+cotton with more than ordinary profit. This I accept as being absolutely
+true! Therefore I hail your success as a revelation of new
+possibilities, which must surely follow in the near future!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+THE DISCUSSION GROWS MORE INTERESTING.
+
+
+"Now Fillmore," said Fern, "I wish to ask, what have you been doing in
+the department of experimental farming?"
+
+"Much of the work in that department is still in such a preliminary
+stage, that definite results cannot yet be declared. However, among the
+experiments worthy of mention, are the fields containing the various
+kinds of true sugar cane, and of sorghum or Chinese sugar cane.
+
+"By hybridizing and other methods, we are striving to increase the
+hardiness of the former and the crystallizing-sugar product of the
+latter. By the results already obtained we are encouraged to believe,
+that five years hence, we shall have produced a sugar-cane equal to the
+best, that may be grown with much profit, as far north as St. Louis.
+
+"Small plots of ground have also been devoted to growing tea, peppers,
+sage, hops, ginseng and other medicinal plants, with such excellent
+results, that no doubt they will soon develop into profitable ventures.
+
+"The ten acres planted to broom-corn, have produced the necessary
+material with which to keep the workers in the broom and brush factory
+profitably employed.
+
+"In the line of fibre plants, other than the cotton crop before
+mentioned; we have grown enough hemp and flax, to supply the needs of
+our rope and twine works. In 'bromelia fibrista,' a new fibre plant, we
+find a product that bids fair to rival silk in producing a fabric of
+fine, smooth, beautiful texture.
+
+"In addition to the foregoing, several swampy plots have been planted to
+willow, and as a consequence, a growing basket-weaving industry has been
+developed.
+
+"At the very beginning of our work here, while I was preparing to stock
+the seed beds in the nursery, one of our co-operators, a very
+intelligent and observing young man, who had been railroading in Mexico
+for two years previous to his joining our colony, called my attention to
+the Mexican quince. So strongly did he assert his belief that the fruit
+would thrive at Solaris, that I soon became a convert to his enthusiasm.
+With the young man for a guide, two weeks later we were on the way to
+Mexico; returning shortly, with enough three-year-old nursery stock, to
+plant one hundred acres. In addition, we secured the seed for 500,000
+young plants. Since that time, our plantation of quince bushes has grown
+finely.
+
+"Last year we gathered the first crop. Not a large one--perhaps, from
+fifteen to twenty-five quinces from each clump of bushes. As the fruit
+was large and the bushes thickly planted, the yield was about one
+hundred crates to the acre. An aggregate of ten thousand crates for the
+entire crop. We have every reason to believe, that the crop this year
+will be double that amount.
+
+"Owing to the fact that this quince thrives best on the elevated table
+lands of Mexico, where it is subject to periods of cold and frost of
+considerable length; it has readily adjusted itself to this location and
+climate. We are now able to pronounce it, a complete success! It is a
+magnificent fruit! Much superior in size, color, flavor and fragrance,
+to our own domestic quince. In keeping qualities and a firmness of flesh
+that will bear long distance transportation without injury, it is fully
+equal to the northern quince. In a deep-toned richness of color,
+perfection of shape and smoothness of skin, these peerless quinces are
+veritable apples of gold! They are pictures of beauty which sell at
+sight! The flavor is so fine, that Mexicans eat them with as much relish
+as the people of New York eat apples. Dried, these quinces are
+delicious!
+
+"In Mexico, large quantities are annually reduced to a soft mass of
+pulp, spread out in thin layers, and dried into sheets of what is termed
+quince-leather. Armed with a generous roll of this excellent
+preparation, the traveler in the desert countries of hot, dry climates,
+may bid defiance to thirst. With such a wealth of recommendations, we
+were able to sell our first crop of quinces at a net price of two
+dollars per crate; or $20,000 in cash. Hereafter we shall save the
+commissions, as we have already received advance orders for our next
+crop, at $2.25 per crate, delivered on board the cars here at Solaris.
+Next year, we propose to enlarge our quince orchard by adding another
+hundred acres. Taking all these items into consideration, I think we
+have good reason to be proud of our first attempt at experimental
+farming in the line of quince culture!
+
+"I have two additional experiments to describe. They are the last on my
+list.
+
+"While in Mexico securing the quince plants, I found what to me was a
+new variety of table grapes. They were marked by the following
+characteristics. Large clusters, berry large oblong, thin skin, few
+seeds, fine sweet pulp, delicious bouquet, color when ripe, a pale
+amber green; ripens about the first of July. As we found these grapes
+growing on the high table lands, I determined to try them at Solaris. By
+the dint of hard work, I procured enough young vines to set fifty acres.
+From those vines, we have rooted enough cuttings in the nursery, to give
+us 100,000 young vines, which have now reached the proper size for
+setting in the vineyard. This fine grape we have named 'Solaris Early.'
+
+"Last July we gathered our first crop--5000 ten-pound baskets, which we
+readily sold at the fancy wholesale price of one dollar per basket. In
+packing them for the market we carefully reject small, poor bunches. The
+bunches selected are freed from all bruised berries. The stems of the
+bunches are then dipped in melted wax. After this treatment they are
+packed in layers of finely cut, soft chaff, made from clean, bright,
+fragrant oat straw. The chaff serves to keep the berries and clusters
+well apart, and also to keep out the air, which otherwise would soon
+wilt the fruit. Packed in this way the grapes reach distant markets in
+perfect condition. In fact, they are the only good table grapes on the
+market at that season; therefore in choice lots they will always command
+fancy prices. The experiment with them has proved so successful that
+next season, we shall increase the size of the vineyard to two hundred
+acres.
+
+"By way of a commencement in small fruit culture, we have fifty acres of
+ground, devoted to growing a great variety of berries. They require the
+work of a large number of hands during the picking season. Owing to the
+perishable nature of such small fruits, we do not attempt to market them
+fresh, but make them into jellies, jams, marmalades, and preserves.
+These we pack in glass jars, of the various sizes demanded by the
+wholesale and retail trade. In preparing and packing these goods, we use
+only the best of everything. This is in line with our purpose to
+establish a reputation of a high degree of excellence, for each article
+put on the market under a Solaris label. By a rigid observance of this
+rule, we manage to sell the products of our berry crops at a good
+profit.
+
+"When the farm books are balanced at the end of the year, we are
+encouraged to find that the fifty acres of berries, has a larger credit
+than any other fifty acres on the farm.
+
+"In the line of an extension of this kind of farming, we are now
+preparing for next year, with the purpose of starting a factory for
+canning our output of sweet corn, green peas, beans, asparagus,
+tomatoes, peaches, plums and pears. This completes my list of items
+under the head of experimental farming, which Solaris now has to offer.
+What do you think of it so far?"
+
+"I think very well of it indeed! I am especially impressed with the
+Mexican quinces, early grapes, and the berries. They seem to promise the
+greatest success, and the largest financial returns. Taken altogether, I
+think the outlook for experimental farming at Solaris, is very bright!
+
+"Now, by the way of recapitulation, can you give to me, a brief
+statement of the crops grown last year; with an approximate one, of the
+cash derived therefrom?"
+
+"That will not be difficult. I will endeavor to make my statement as
+brief as possible.
+
+"By looking at this map, you will observe that during the season just
+past, we have cultivated about 4,000 acres of land. The crops planted,
+were nearly as follows: 1,200 acres to cotton; 1,000 acres to wheat;
+1,100 acres divided between corn, oats, barley and hay; 150 acres to
+vegetables, and 550 acres to a miscellaneous variety of crops, such as
+the nursery, the quince orchard, the vineyard, the berries, the gardens,
+and all ground devoted to experimental culture.
+
+"The aggregate cash income derived from these crops, which found a
+market in the outside world, in addition to those sold to our own
+people, amounted in round numbers to $193,000. Of this amount, $95,000
+came from sales of cotton and wheat. Next year we have good reason to
+expect a cash income of $250,000 from our farm products alone. Last year
+we realized $57,000 from the sale of our manufactured products; such as
+brick, terracotta, drain pipes, tiles, earthen ware, furniture, brooms,
+willow ware, and the output of several other minor industries. This
+brought the total income of the farm for the year, up to $250,000.
+
+"You ask what disposition has been made of this money? $50,000 has been
+expended in additional improvements, machinery, buildings, and live
+stock for the farm. $25,000 more, has been added to the stock in our
+store, which now has a supply of goods, sufficient to meet the demands
+of adjacent settlers who wish to trade with us. $25,000 is held in our
+treasury, for use in any emergency which may arise. The remaining
+$150,000, has been placed in the sinking-fund.
+
+"Our farm-store, has proved a very important institution. The clothing,
+tailoring, dressmaking and millinery departments, have proved
+surprisingly successful; with a constantly increasing demand for the
+goods turned out. This opens a wide field of remunerative labor, for our
+women co-operators.
+
+"The 2,400 acres of untilled lands, are now utilized as follows: 500
+acres are covered by a fairly good native forest; 500 more, by the
+scattered timber around the stone quarries, gravel beds, sand pits, clay
+deposits and the various other mines. 400 acres are used for pasture,
+100 acres belong to the village site. 200 acres are planted to apple
+trees; 25 acres to pear; 25 acres to peach; and 200 acres to nut-bearing
+trees. 100 acres are now being prepared for the addition to the quince
+orchard. Another 100 acres for the vineyard. The remaining 250 acres,
+for other desirable varieties of fruit.
+
+"Of the 100 acres set apart for the village site, only forty, are at
+present occupied by the streets in use, the buildings, and the public
+square. The remaining sixty acres, are laid out with walks, drives,
+lawns, oval, circular, and star-shaped plots. The latter, are filled
+with choice roses and flowers. The ovals and circles, are thickly
+planted with fruit trees and ornamental shrubbery. The fruits, such as
+cherries, plums, peaches, pears and figs, have all been the result of
+experimental potting and planting by the school children. The same is
+true in a large measure, of the rose gardens and the shrubbery.
+
+"The effect of this amusing work on the children, is most excellent. A
+taste for the beautiful becomes permanent, while they acquire a fund of
+useful knowledge about the care and culture of trees, and also how to
+enjoy themselves in the conscious zeal of pushing forward some useful
+employment; which will make them stronger, healthier and happier. With
+the advent of spring, comes a wealth of bloom to reward their toil--a
+paradise of beauty and fragrance; everywhere, clouds of pink sprays and
+snowy petals charm the sight.
+
+"This last item, like a long, ornamental flourish, must conclude my
+summing up of the distribution of crops, the division of forest, pasture
+and fruit lands, over the whole farm; with its complete chain of
+financial resources, and its outlook for the coming season. I hope I
+have not made my recapitulation too lengthy! Also, that I have succeeded
+in answering your questions satisfactorily."
+
+"Your summing up has shown surprising results! The magnitude of the cash
+income, is really a crown of triumph for co-operative farming! I
+congratulate you, and the people of Solaris, most heartily! In justice
+to the able answers to my questions, I must say that many times you have
+answered, even before I could frame them into words. With each
+succeeding reply, my wonder and delight has increased. I have discovered
+many new possibilities, in pleasant, productive and profitable methods
+for farm work, of which I have never before dreamed. Now that you have
+made them plain to me in such a charming manner; I am beginning to
+understand how it is, that Solaris can produce such quantities of
+marketable goods, that can so easily be turned into cash. I have yet a
+number of important questions remaining unanswered, but they do not
+pertain to growing crops."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+SOCIAL SOLUTIONS.
+
+
+"I now wish," said Fern, "to consider the social and domestic interests
+of the colony. How do you manage to keep up the necessary degree of
+cleanliness, demanded by perfect sanitation in the living rooms of the
+co-operators, without seriously disturbing the privacy of the family."
+
+"That is a delicate matter, which by choice of the co-operators
+themselves, easily adjusts itself to the requirements of the committee
+members, who are chosen to take charge of the tri-weekly scrubbing and
+sweeping. The detail for this work for each week, is made by the
+assignment committee.
+
+"They select from a class of workers, known as both skillful and
+trustworthy. All rooms which the occupants desire to have cleaned, are
+left open. All rooms that are found locked, are reported to the chairman
+of the committee, whose duty it is to inspect them at a later period,
+while the occupants are present. It is a matter which is well understood
+by the members of the company, that rooms not accessible to the regular
+cleaning force, must be kept sweet and tidy by the occupants themselves,
+during hours which might be otherwise devoted to rest, amusement or
+study.
+
+"Under the pressure of such conditions, even the most exclusive, soon
+voluntarily open all their rooms to the authorized force. Causes for
+complaint against any member of the sanitary, inspection or assignment
+committee, are corrected by the voters at monthly elections, held for
+the purpose of selecting new committees. This system so appeals to that
+innate sense of justice and harmony reigning in the hearts of our
+people, that after a few months of experience, they are ready to
+co-operate heartily in any sort of discipline which may be necessary to
+secure the welfare of the entire colony.
+
+"The peculiar charm of colony-life appeals to them so strongly, that to
+be voted out of the organization on account of violation of rules, or of
+any improper conduct, is universally considered as a most dreadful
+calamity. The possibility of such a fate, like some hidden spectre, acts
+as a restraining influence, which holds in check the most lawless,
+stubborn, or self-opinionated. It soon makes them zealous, peace-loving
+and obedient. Having once tasted the sweets of the co-operative system,
+they have a wholesome dread of being obliged to return to the cruel
+bitterness of the old competitive system!
+
+"Among the most potent charms which have proved so attractive to Solaris
+workers, is the condition of health, comfort and beauty, which surrounds
+the laborer in every department of the farm.
+
+"In store, work-shop, seed-room, dairy, mill, factory or packing-house,
+the rooms are large, the light is abundant, ventilation perfect,
+ceilings high; while both walls and ceilings are so beautifully and
+artistically decorated, that love for the beautiful in the esthetic
+nature, swells and grows to be a dominant passion. This passion soon
+takes hold of both heart and brain, becoming the foundation of a
+character-building-work of high order. Thus happily environed, our
+people feast their eyes and merrily sing away the hours, which are
+devoted to tasks they have learned to love. The tendency of these
+things, is ever toward the good, the right, the pure and true! Under
+such conditions, the demon of discontent, evil thinking and evil doing,
+cannot thrive! His power wanes, he flies to the more congenial
+surroundings which mark the dingy, ill smelling, overcrowded work-shops
+of the competitive system!
+
+"No wonder, when away from Solaris, our people are so anxious to return!
+They come back convinced, that they have fortunately escaped from the
+thralldom of a debasing, cruel system. A system which--utterly ignoring
+the sacredness of human life--in a frenzy of selfish greed, has, so far
+as the toilers of the world are concerned, turned the triumphs of modern
+civilization into the mockery of a bitter curse! As affecting
+themselves, our people perceive that, under the protecting mantle of
+financial conditions which prevail here at Solaris, they, as members of
+the company, are sure to secure every benefit, profit or advantage, that
+may flow from the use of the best and most expensive kinds of
+labor-saving machinery. Once aware of all the facts, thereafter, they
+cannot under any circumstances, be induced to return to employment under
+the old system.
+
+"The advantage in favor of co-operative work is so great, that among our
+women co-operators, there is a general desire to have it utilized to the
+utmost; especially in all kinds of housework. The introduction of such a
+wholesale system of house-cleaning, soon demands a better class of
+sweepers, to take the place of the housewife's broom and dust pan.
+
+"Large suction sweepers, worked by a powerful inhaling bellows, which
+swiftly and silently suck up, from carpet, furniture, and curtains, all
+particles of accumulated dust, are the perfected instruments chosen;
+unlike the ordinary dust-raising machines, which must be followed by an
+army of dusting cloths, these suction machines do perfect work, leaving
+the air of the renovated room pure, wholesome and fairly free from
+floating dust, with its accompanying cloud of disease-laden germs. Many
+similar accomplishments in other departments of housework, soon convince
+all opponents, that personal prejudice must not be allowed to interfere
+with the working of the system."
+
+"Pardon me Fillmore! If at this point I interrupt you, with a question
+which I wish to preface with this remark! In the estimation of most
+women, well-kept hands, are considered as a rule, to indicate the
+measure of the owners refinement. According to my judgment, there is
+nothing which so quickly destroys the contour and suppleness of the
+hands, and that much prized, white, velvety smoothness of skin, as
+dishwashing. As a matter of fact, the woman's self-respect is involved
+in the loss. For this reason, I believe women dislike that disagreeable
+part of housework more than any other. Premising that my theory is true,
+how can you manage this matter at Solaris, in order to avoid trouble?"
+
+"I accept your question as a welcome interruption! It gives me a chance
+to tell you more about our kitchen work, which I feel sure will interest
+you greatly!
+
+"For reasons which I shall state presently, our women workers do not
+desire to avoid frequent six-hour details as dishwashers at the
+restaurant. By our new methods, the task is easily and quickly
+accomplished.
+
+"The washers are not required to put their hands into hot or cold water
+during the process. Traveling carriers on either side of the dining
+rooms, run to and from the kitchen. In one, the food comes to the
+tables, in response to phone orders from the waiter. In the other, the
+dishes are returned to the kitchen. There, the washers scrape the bones
+and rejected food into the waiting barrels. These barrels when filled,
+go to the feeding yards of the pigs and poultry.
+
+"The dishes, after being scraped, are then placed in the washing
+machine. This machine, run by electric power, is a wide, deep,
+round-bottomed trough, built in a circle twenty feet in diameter. Along
+the bottom of this trough, is a moving track, which travels slowly
+around the circle with its train of metal carriers. On these carriers
+are placed the dishes as they come from the hands of the scrapers. When
+the carrier thus laden commences its circular journey, the
+dishes--placed well apart--are subjected to dashing jets of warm, soapy
+water, and then to more torrential jets of hot, and very hot pure water.
+
+"Comfortably seated, at convenient points around the machine, the
+washers control the force and quantity of the water jets, and whenever
+necessary, assist the cleansing process with their long-handled swabs.
+When this process is finished, the dishes arrive at the drying boards,
+so hot that by the time the wipers with their thick towels have placed
+them in the racks where they belong, all are perfectly clean and dry.
+
+"Our pots, sauce pans, stew pans and kettles, are all designed for
+electric cooking, and are made in shapes best adapted for easy cleaning.
+For these, an additional washing-sink is provided. Over this sink,
+connected with the electric wires, we have rigged three hanging
+spindles, of as many different sizes. These spindles can be raised or
+lowered by the operator, while they are in motion. Each spindle is
+armed on every side with loose wings of alternating wire scrapers and
+dish-cloths. The vessel to be cleansed is placed on the movable carrier
+at the bottom of the sink. Passing under a spindle of the proper size,
+the spindle is lowered, and at once begins to revolve with a strong,
+rotary pressure. This searching, chafing pressure, in connection with
+the hot-water jets, soon cleans and polishes the most obstinate among
+the kettles.
+
+"The kitchen and dish pantry combined, is a very large, well-lighted,
+well-ventilated room. This room is constantly kept sweet and comfortable
+by electric fans. The work is light, and never monotonous. Only two, of
+the six hours devoted to kitchen duty, are spent in the active work of
+dish washing. During the remaining hours, the washers take lessons in
+cookery, from the chief and the two assistants. These three important
+officials, are chosen from the ranks of competent volunteers. They are
+responsible for the kitchen work. They plan all the meals, and direct
+the work of the under cooks. The system soon comes to work like a charm!
+I can truthfully say, that it gives general satisfaction.
+
+"The success attending this extension of co-operative methods, to
+embrace the entire list of worry-producing details which belong to
+general house work, is hailed with delight by our matrons and maidens.
+They keenly appreciate the great blessing of this movement, which has
+rescued them from the harassing, health-destroying drudgery, of a house
+wife on a small farm. They well know the sad story, which comes from
+thousands of such farms, where isolated lives, overburden of cares and
+long hours of irritating, never-ending toil, have produced such fearful,
+mental depression, that as a result, we find six hundred farmers' wives,
+among the inmates of asylums for the insane, in each one of the States
+of Michigan and Kansas. The proportion for other agricultural States, is
+doubtless much the same. What a horrible array of statistics, this is to
+contemplate! What an indictment against existing agricultural
+conditions! What a sad fate, to overtake the mothers of so many sons and
+daughters of the farms of this Republic! Who can measure the intensity
+of the agony and suffering, these children may thus inherit! What
+possible argument, can speak more eloquently, or call more loudly, for
+the immediate adoption of co-operative farming by our agricultural
+people?
+
+"In the matter of frequent bathing to maintain personal cleanliness; the
+popularity, with both old and young, of our fine hot and cold, plunge,
+swimming and shower baths, free to all, which are kept open in
+connection with the laundry; proves conclusively, that the habit of
+cleanliness, like all other habits, is the result of environment; or in
+other words, of opportunity and the strong impulse of social example.
+
+"In treating your question as though it contained several sub-divisions,
+I may perhaps have made my answer too lengthy. Do you find it so?"
+
+"Oh no! On the contrary it is clear, brief, interesting and to the
+point! You have told me just what I most desired to know! I perceive
+that the practical working of a co-operative colony, answers a great
+many puzzling questions, which hitherto, we have passed by as hopeless
+problems. From the commencement of this work, I have been concerned,
+lest the discipline necessary to maintain a proper working harmony in
+such a large colony, should prove a fruitful source of discontent. I am
+rejoiced to find that my fears were groundless!
+
+"This brings me to my second question. Do you find homesickness among
+the colonists, a frequent cause of discontent?"
+
+"On the contrary, the number of such cases has been surprisingly small.
+Owing, doubtless, to the marked change from isolated conditions of small
+farm life, to the superior advantages for education, amusement, social
+enjoyment, and the all-pervading enthusiasm of congenial, co-operative
+work; which here at Solaris, leaves no time for such fits of brooding
+over the past, as usually result in that severe mental depression, which
+we call homesickness. Perhaps one individual in fifty, is so constituted
+that homesickness becomes a serious illness. In such cases, the
+executive committee is authorized to grant the necessary leave of
+absence. Always providing of course, that the applicant is willing to
+comply with a rule of the organization, which assigns the pay of the
+absentee to the general service fund, for the number of days such
+absence may continue. A strict observance of this rule, leaves no cause
+for complaint by those who remain.
+
+"In considering the question from another standpoint, we find the
+general tone and disposition of our people, has been raised to a much
+higher, happier pitch, by the evolution of the musical spirit,
+introduced and inspired by the work of the dancing and musical clubs.
+Stimulated by the prizes offered by the general manager, a great number
+of beautiful farm songs have been completed, and adapted to a large
+variety of farm work. These songs have been taken up by a goodly number
+of glee clubs, organized for the purpose from among those members of the
+musical club, who had the good fortune to possess a fine quality of
+voice.
+
+"Careful training and steady practice, soon enabled these lesser vocal
+organizations, to render the entire list of songs, with a mellow
+smoothness, an inspiring swing of rythm, and a well rounded tone of
+perfection, which was really quite surprising. These vocalists,
+scattered through the fifties and hundreds of farm workers in the hay,
+harvest, corn and cotton fields; the nursery, gardens, orchards and
+vineyards; the dairy, mills, factories and packing-houses; the brick
+works, mines and quarries; the workshops of the store, and the assembly
+meetings of the co-operators; became competent teachers, who, by their
+leadership and example, soon made it possible for every member of the
+colony, to master both words and music of all the songs. This course of
+vocal training proved so fascinating, that our people literally absorbed
+it! The children, even more quickly than the adults!
+
+"Thoroughly tested in the practical work of every department of the
+farm; the beneficial effect has proved a marvel, which has far exceeded
+the expectations of our musical enthusiasts. Many fine voices have been
+discovered, developed and trained. The benign influence of this musical
+wave, has shown a constant tendency to extend its sway in all
+directions. This blending of voices, has added a hitherto unknown zest
+to the work; and a stronger tie to every association connected with it.
+Best of all, as directly affecting the question under discussion! It has
+proved a most potent factor in driving away the spirit of ill-humor,
+inharmony, and discontent; also in breaking the charm of old
+associations, home ties, and retrospective, social memories, so
+conducive to attacks of homesickness. The exhilarating, helpful rythm,
+of these inspiring songs, has given an added force to the working power
+of the farm. It has largely reduced the fatigue, and increased the
+amount of work that can be performed in a given time. Further, we find
+the general mental, physical and spiritual health of our people,
+correspondingly improved.
+
+"A curious fact, is disclosed by these vocal experiments. It is this,
+that the vibration of musical tones, in the blending voices of a mixed
+multitude, produces a moral, mental and spiritual harmony, such as
+cannot be achieved in any other way. In point of fact, we get a
+composite expression of the highest soul element of the mass--a new
+phase of the exceeding fruitfulness of co-operative effort! It may be
+stated in conclusion, that there comes to the minds of our people, an
+added power, flowing from the general hypnotic effect, of harmonious
+co-operation. This power brings with it a right conception of human
+life, in which a certain amount of necessary, productive labor, becomes
+the keynote, which completes a perfect anthem, and more symmetrically
+rounds out the full measure, melody and grandeur, of an individual
+existence. What think you of these results?"
+
+"They are very wonderful indeed! They reflect much credit on the
+excellent work inspired by the dancing and musical clubs; also on the
+genius and culture of the vocalists, and the marvelous efficiency of a
+well-directed co-operative effort. This triumph in a new field, which so
+increases the possibilities of soul expression, suggests the use of
+music as a prime factor in all future systems for ethical culture.
+
+"Now Fillmore, please tell me. How has the example of Solaris farm,
+affected the industrial, social, and political situation in this town
+and county?"
+
+"The effect has been favorable in every way! The attractiveness of our
+social organization! the financial success which has crowned our farming
+and manufacturing operations; the opportunities offered for young men to
+learn so much of the industrial arts; the short hours of light labor;
+the long hours of leisure for rest, study and amusement; the
+educational, health-giving character, of the amusements; the
+fascination, of the club-system of education for adults; the
+irresistible charm, of the dancing and vocal entertainments; the
+generous wages paid to the co-operators, which affords for them such an
+abundant supply of food, clothing and books; the fine quality and
+perfect reliability of the large assortment of goods in the farm-store;
+the advantages of a rational scheme of insurance, which stands as an
+absolute safe-guard against accidents, sickness and old-age; the
+improved conditions for women, which largely relieves them from the
+irritating, nerve-destroying worry, of a constant burden of household
+cares; the fostering care for children, which insures for them ideal
+opportunities for birth, unfoldment and education; the manifest
+advantage of farming on a scale large enough to allow the use of the
+latest and best labor-saving machinery; the astonishing array of huge,
+modern barns, storing, curing and packing houses; the wonderful
+cheapness and utility of the electric power; the long list of farm
+implements, many of them especially invented, which followed the
+introduction of this magic-working power; the wide publicity given to
+these things through the columns of the Solaris Sentinel, our weekly
+farm paper, sent free to friends of the colonists, and to all who ask
+for it; considered altogether as a comprehensive whole, is a startling
+combination, which has arrested the attention, aroused the interest and
+provoked the astonishment of surrounding communities, far and near. As a
+consequence, our office has been overwhelmed with a flood of
+correspondence from interested enquirers, followed by an ever-increasing
+stream of visitors to Solaris, to see for themselves, the verity of this
+twentieth century model of farm innovation. In order to answer the great
+bulk of queries, emanating from these two sources, a series of articles
+describing the object and purpose, and explaining the details of the
+enterprise, has been prepared for the columns of the Sentinel. With an
+extra large edition of this newspaper, we are prepared to supply as many
+interested people as may apply.
+
+"The applications to join the company, made by progressive young farmers
+in this and adjacent counties, have become so frequent and persistent,
+that finally we have consented to prepare the leaders for another
+co-operative colony, which we propose to locate on a certain one, of the
+nine remaining Fenwick-farm-sites, which happens to be in this county,
+only ten miles distant from Solaris. This preparatory class, is limited
+to fifty people; one-half females, married couples ranging from eighteen
+to twenty-five years of age, preferred. The course for this class,
+contemplates one year of practical work, embracing all departments of
+the farm.
+
+"The membership of this class, was filled six months ago. Six months
+hence, the graduates will be prepared to organize the new colony. I am
+greatly interested in the scheme, and have promised to aid in every
+possible way.
+
+"To this body of pupils, is referred all applications from prospective
+co-operators. Judging from the mass of applications already accumulated,
+when the time of organization for the new colony arrives, the list of
+eligible applicants will probably contain a thousand names. The outlook
+for the new farm company, seems unusually bright!
+
+"Both board and tuition for these pupils, are donated by Solaris Farm.
+At the end of the year, $100 in Solaris scrip, will be paid to each one,
+as some sort of compensation for the year's work. This arrangement is
+accepted by the pupils, as fair and perfectly satisfactory.
+
+"Referring to the relations existing between the Solaris Farm Company,
+and the township and county officials. It is noteworthy, that no serious
+friction has arisen. One year ago, a large proportion of town officers,
+including the assessor, town clerk, magistrate and chairman of the Board
+of Supervisors, were chosen from Solaris. Owing to the small,
+much-scattered, population of this county, the present county sheriff,
+auditor and treasurer, are also Solaris co-operators. The manifest
+integrity of this institution, seems to be accepted by the voters of the
+county, as a guarantee of the honesty and ability of its members. The
+significance of this approval, so early in the history of the movement,
+augurs well for the future dominancy of our social and industrial
+system, as a political factor in both town and county.
+
+"The Solaris Company has erected a roomy, substantial building, for the
+use of the town officials, for which a moderate rent is paid from the
+town-treasury. The county officers have secured one hundred acres of
+land two miles from Solaris, just outside the farm limits. On this, they
+propose to erect a suitable brick building for the county offices. The
+farm company, now has the contract to furnish the brick and erect the
+building. Pending its completion, the county officials occupy rented
+quarters in Solaris, which is by far the largest business center in the
+county. From this statement of the situation, you will observe that our
+co-operative vote already holds a balance of power, which controls the
+policy of both town and county. With the advent of Colony number 2, the
+interests of co-operation in this county, are secure for all time.
+Meanwhile, we are encouraged to hope that before the close of the
+twentieth century, what co-operation has already achieved at Solaris,
+may be accomplished in every town, county and state in the Republic!
+
+"You ask, what disposition is made of the salaries of such co-operators
+as are elected to fill town and county offices?
+
+"They are paid in scrip. The salaries or fees which they receive from
+town or county, are turned into the company treasury. As these
+co-operators, in holding such offices, are in a position to materially
+aid the co-operative movement. They are justly excused from farm-work,
+whenever their official duties require attention."
+
+"Splendid! my dear Fillmore! Your report is very interesting, and even
+more encouraging! It seems the beginning of a fulfillment of my father's
+hopes, dreams and prophecies! I am anxious for the time to come, when he
+can tell you how much he is pleased with your work!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+SOLARIS SCRIP.
+
+
+"Returning again, Fillmore, to the financial operations of the farm;
+with such a volume of business to transact, how do you manage to get
+along without having recourse to some local bank?"
+
+"To a large extent, we do our own banking business. Our treasurer, has
+his office in the cash room of the store. In this room we have a large
+vault, containing a fire-proof safe of the latest type. The books,
+records and funds of the company, are all kept in this safe. For our
+commercial business, we have selected one of the principal banks of St.
+Louis as our bank of deposit. A large percentage of purchases for the
+store and farm are made in that city, which is also a market for the
+bulk of our farm produce.
+
+"The farm company has an office near the bank, where some member of the
+executive committee, or other representative of the company, may be
+found every business day of the year. It is the duty of this agent to
+attend to purchases, consignments and sales; also to have charge of all
+business transacted through the bank of deposit. Taking care, to keep
+the amount of available funds up to the ten thousand dollar mark. To do
+this, it sometimes becomes necessary for the company to issue drafts on
+the bank of deposit for thirty, sixty and ninety days. These drafts are
+accepted by dealers, for purchases made in Chicago, Cincinnati,
+Philadelphia or New York, the same as cash.
+
+"As borrowers, our only dealings have been with you. In these dealings,
+at times when much in need of more capital, we have not been required to
+pay interest. Now, having returned our borrowed capital, and being free
+from debt, we have grown more independent and self-sustaining; therefore
+more averse to the idea of paying interest to any one. We are convinced
+by past experience, that all necessity for incurring interest-bearing
+obligations can be avoided. The use of Solaris Scrip in all
+intercolonial transactions, has proved a most potent factor in helping
+us to arrive at such a fortunate conclusion. By its use, ninety per cent
+of our business can be transacted on a cash basis, without using one
+cent of actual cash. In addition, we can use it as a basis on which to
+borrow. To illustrate! Suppose we need ten thousand dollars to replenish
+the stock of goods in the store, pending the sale of products on hand.
+We borrow that amount from the insurance fund, the sum being part of the
+accumulated profits on sales at the store and restaurant. We then
+replace this sum by scrip of the same face value. This scrip, to the
+pensioner or beneficiaries, is the same as cash. When they have drawn
+and spent it, the debt is cancelled. No interest is paid. The store and
+restaurant become the clearing house, through which these drafts against
+the resources of the farm are liquidated. In the same way, temporary
+loans can be made from other funds, whenever it is for the benefit of
+the united interests of the co-operators to do so.
+
+"How is it possible, you ask, to keep perfect control of such a large
+issue of scrip, with a certainty that all in use is genuine?
+
+"That is a matter which is easily regulated by our simple system of
+issue. In the first place, we print the scrip here at Solaris, from
+plates which, when not in use, are kept in the safe, in the custody of
+the treasurer. The five denominations issued, are as follows: five, two,
+and one dollar bills; which, together with the fifty and
+twenty-five-cent, fractional-currency scrip, make up the list. Every
+denomination has a numbered series, of ten thousand. Each series, with
+the stubs attached to the bills, is bound in book form. When issued,
+each stub remaining in the book, will show the date of issue, serial
+number, and amount of the issued bill. When cancelled, the bills are
+returned to the book, and again attached to the stub to which they
+belong. At any time, an examination of the books of issued and unissued
+scrip in the hands of the treasurer, will give the amount outstanding.
+The co-operators are requested to keep a record of the serial numbers of
+the scrip they hold or handle, and to report the loss or destruction of
+such as may happen. A history of the loss is attached to the stub, and
+the amount of the bill carried to the profit and loss account of the
+company.
+
+"If the genuineness of any piece of scrip should be questioned, a
+comparison with the stub should show the same date, number, amount and
+serrated edges, made by the peculiar pattern of the perforator belonging
+to that series. If so, the bill must be genuine. As time passes, we are
+more than ever convinced of the wonderful advantage gained by the use of
+this scrip. Our people find it much lighter and more desirable to carry
+and use, than the same amount of gold or silver coin; therefore they
+frequently request to be allowed to exchange coin for scrip. In summing
+up my replies to your questions: it seems probable, from the constantly
+increasing volume of business, that the company will soon be obliged to
+take a charter that will authorize it to do a complete banking
+business."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+THE INSURANCE OFFERED BY CO-OPERATIVE FARMING.
+
+
+"I notice, Fillmore, that you mention the borrowing of ten thousand
+dollars from the insurance fund; the same being a part of the
+accumulated profits on the business of the store and restaurant. Tell
+me; how is it possible for so large a sum to be saved in such a short
+time?"
+
+"A complete answer to your question, will bring up the whole subject of
+insurance; which presents some interesting problems. I will first try to
+give you the basis for such an amount of savings. The net per-diem pay
+of $2.50 for each adult member of the company, will give an annual
+income of a little more than $900. If we include an added pro rata for
+the children, each one will spend annually at least $450 with the store
+for goods; and $350 with the restaurant for food. Our statistics show
+much larger sums; but these will do for an estimate. Taking these
+figures for a basis, we find that the annual sales made to our own
+people by the store and restaurant combined, reach the startling sum of
+$400,000. A net profit of five per cent on this amount, gives $20,000
+each year to the insurance fund. At this rate, the profits for thirty
+months, reach the goodly sum of $50,000. To which we may add $2,500
+more, as profits on sales to the amount of $50,000, made during that
+period by the store and restaurant, to people from surrounding
+communities. Altogether, we have a grand up-to-date total for the
+insurance fund of $52,500. These profits will continue to increase with
+larger sales to outside people; also with the increased wages or incomes
+of the co-operators, as the products and profits of the farm continue to
+grow.
+
+"Such favorable statistics are very encouraging. They demonstrate that
+only a five per cent profit will be needed, to meet all future demands
+against the insurance fund, even when the colony has its maximum number
+of children and superannuated co-operators. The remaining profits, which
+in some departments of the store are large, may wisely be devoted to
+educational and missionary work.
+
+"From another point of view, this eloquent array of figures, has an
+additional value. They show conclusively, that the restaurant alone
+furnishes a home market annually for $175,000 worth of farm produce:
+beef, mutton, pork, lard, honey, syrup, milk, butter, cheese, eggs,
+poultry, vegetables, fruits and grains.
+
+"If we consider the sales made by the store, we find after deducting the
+cost of raw material, that at least fifty per cent of the goods
+purchased by our people, are really the products of the skilled labor of
+the farm: such as crockery, furniture, willow ware, picture frames,
+brushes, clothing, underwear, bed furnishings, and goods from the
+tailoring, dress-making and millinery departments. From this showing it
+will appear, that the store becomes a home market each year, for farm
+products to the amount of $112,500. To this, let us add the sums of
+sales through the restaurant, and those made through the markets of the
+outside world. Altogether, we have a grand total of $787,500 for the
+market value of farm products last year.
+
+"Does this exhibit appeal to you as a reasonable basis for the
+accumulated savings named in your questions?"
+
+"I am sure the exhibit has astonished me greatly! Your figures and
+statements are both fascinating and convincing. They are all, most
+excellent arguments in favor of co-operative methods. I now perceive
+that even on the basis of present conditions, a five per cent profit
+turned into the insurance fund, at the end of the first ten years, will
+amount to the extraordinary sum of $200,000. With this magnificent fund,
+you can afford to extend the scope of your original plan! How will you
+dispose of it? At what age do you propose to retire the active workers?"
+
+"Yes, our original plans have been changed, and very much enlarged. The
+insurance fund has grown so rapidly, that it was deemed wise to expend a
+portion of it, in building a hospital for the accommodation of our farm
+people, and perhaps a few outside patients. Last year, a two-story and
+basement brick building, was erected just in the heart of our finest
+shrubbery dotted lawn, some distance from the public square. It is large
+enough for about one hundred patients. Viewed from any point, it
+presents a charming appearance. It is conceded by all to be the
+handsomest structure on the farm. Inside, with its polished floors,
+magnificent windows, large rooms, high, beautifully frescoed walls and
+ceilings, dainty couches, cozy chairs, and wide, breezy halls, with
+picture-laden walls; every condition is present to satisfy the highest
+ideal of sick-room comfort. Brighter, sunnier, more health-inspiring
+rooms never soothed, charmed or healed a nerve shattered patient!
+
+"Under the supervision of the sanitary committee, the hospital at
+present, is in charge of a young surgeon employed by the company. His
+services are utilized in teaching and preparing a class of trained
+nurses. He also teaches the members of the chemistry and physiology
+clubs, in their new study rooms at the hospital. At a later period this
+surgeon will be superseded by two of our own people. A young woman and a
+young man, both with some previous knowledge of pharmacy, who have been
+in charge of the drug department at the store; have recently developed a
+strong desire to take a thorough course of medicine and surgery at some
+leading school. Upon the recommendation of the general manager, approved
+by a unanimous vote of the co-operators, the expense of this schooling
+is to be taken from the insurance fund, with the understanding however,
+that after graduating, they are to relieve the company of the expense of
+a hired surgeon, by taking permanent charge of the hospital, or as our
+people have christened it, the 'Temple of health.'
+
+"Relative to the question of retiring members of the company; much
+thought and discussion on the part of our officers and co-operators, has
+been required, to properly and wisely fix the age at which such
+retirement shall take place.
+
+"Many important questions have been considered. Our present colony, as
+you know, is composed of young people, as a rule not yet thirty years of
+age. Individually they possess strong, disease-resisting, vital
+organizations, which have been reinforced by harmonious, mental and
+physical development. This immunity from disease to such a large extent,
+has been still further strengthened and fortified, by the beneficial
+effects of our organized sanitary, social and industrial methods. These
+methods have lifted the weary burden of toil from our people, and
+substituted therefor, a light exhilarating labor, simply healthful
+exercise. Under such favorable conditions, our workers ought to reach
+the age of fifty, with health and vigor still unimpaired. For the
+reasons named, very few of our co-operators, outside the ranks of the
+mother's club, are at present entitled on account of either illness or
+accident, to draw their wages from the insurance fund. Fortunately, so
+far, not one has become permanently disabled! All things considered, it
+was not unexpected, when a final vote on the question was taken, that a
+majority was found to be in favor of fixing the age of retirement at
+fifty years.
+
+"This decision will give the farm company, twenty years in which to
+prepare for the event. In the light of our past experience, no one
+doubts our ability to accumulate an adequate fund, with which to meet
+the additional drain upon it. This drain will prove a heavy one, as the
+retired pay of the co-operators, who have reached the age of fifty, has
+been fixed at two-thirds of their present pay, that is, fifty dollars
+per month or $600 per annum. Premising that the maximum number on the
+retired list at any one time will not exceed fifty; the total annual
+retired pay will then amount to $30,000.
+
+"The following plan has been devised to meet this additional
+expenditure. It has been demonstrated conclusively, that five years
+hence, the income of the farm, will warrant the increase of the wages of
+each member of the company, to $1,500 per year. At least $1,200 of this
+amount, will be spent at the store or restaurant. We shall then have a
+new basis for calculating the five per cent profit for the insurance
+fund; that is, $600,000 annually, which will give $30,000 each year for
+the fund. Allowing that savings at the present rate, $20,000 per annum,
+for seven and one-half years, aggregating $150,000; will prove ample for
+incidental needs, until the time for the retirement of the first
+co-operator! We calculate that fifteen years of savings on the new
+basis, will give us twenty years hence, a fund of $450,000 to commence
+with.
+
+"If practical experience should prove that larger savings are necessary;
+an additional two and one-half per cent profit, may be set aside for
+this fund, without seriously curtailing the sums devoted to educational
+and missionary purposes. This will surely cover all possible
+contingencies. More especially, as seven and one-half per cent of all
+retired pay, will come back to the fund as profits on purchases--active
+workers having taken the place of the retired members. Considering the
+generous annuity provided by this insurance, together with the fact that
+the wants of the pensioners will become fewer as age increases;
+doubtless, at the end of each year, many of them will turn back into the
+fund, considerable sums of unused pay.
+
+"As another important factor, connected with the question of this kind
+of insurance, it should be well understood, that after reaching the age
+of retirement, our members do not cease to be valuable productive
+workers, either for the financial gain of the colony, or for the general
+welfare of the movement, which the colony represents. On the contrary,
+in many cases, their services are liable to become more valuable than
+ever before. Between the ages of fifty and sixty, they remain subject
+to assignments to serve on committees, to act as traveling agents for
+the company, to represent the company as lecturers and organizers, for
+the spread of the movement; to act as aids to the teachers in the
+schools and the numerous clubs. They are also eligible to election as
+town, county, state or United States officials. In committee work,
+connected with the store and the various factories, their riper
+judgment, based on many years of experience, would prove especially
+valuable: often by timely advice, they would be able to save for the
+company in one transaction, an amount in money more than equal to their
+entire wages for the year.
+
+"In another way their services would prove equally advantageous. With
+such an increase of leisure, there would come to these retired
+co-operators, a desire, and the opportunity, to enter more actively into
+the practical work of the scientific clubs. If inclined, they could take
+up all kinds of scientific research; making themselves especially useful
+in the practical, productive and profitable work of the educational,
+microscopical, chemical and photographic clubs. Those who had a talent
+for invention, could then devote as much time, energy and thought to it,
+as they chose. To aid them, they would have the advantage of an acquired
+skill in the use of tools, and of all kinds of complicated machinery,
+which would be a part of the outfit belonging to the thoroughly equipped
+machine shop at their disposal. In the laboratory, they could find the
+books, maps, and drawings, necessary to bring them up to date in any
+line of invention which they might choose to enter.
+
+"Taking these important factors into consideration, we discover that
+our co-operative inventor, would be armed to conquer his subject by a
+magnificent equipment, such as an ordinary inventor could not hope to
+command.
+
+"So ably reinforced by the advantages enumerated, our corps of
+inventors, of both sexes, would be inspired by a labor of love. Unbiased
+by any selfish motives, they would be working for the farm and for
+humanity. With no cause to distrust their fellows, they could openly
+discuss their discoveries, without fear of having them stolen;
+consequently, they could have the willing assistance of all the
+inventive minds in the colony, in developing and perfecting their
+original inventions. This would be an experience utterly unheard of, in
+the annals of an industry based on the competitive system. It would be
+the beginning of co-operative invention as an art. It would mark another
+great step in harmonious, practical and profitable co-operative
+thinking, that would lead to discoveries of vast importance to the
+world; discoveries that could not be made in any other way. It is
+difficult for even the most enthusiastic optimist to imagine, what a
+revolution in the inventive world, will follow the introduction of such
+superior co-operative methods; or what wonders will be wrought by them,
+before the close of the first half of the twentieth century!
+
+"Let us consider what they might do for our superannuated farmers.
+Quickened by such an added potency of perfect, co-operative, mental,
+conditions, our inventors would naturally aspire to still higher
+achievements. Each year they would be able to produce many valuable
+inventions, which could not be used by the farm, but which could be sold
+by the company after being patented, for good round sums in cash! In
+this way it becomes evident, that our old members might prove the most
+prolific cash producers on the farm. It is even possible, and quite
+probable, that the sale of one invention, might bring to the company, a
+sum of money, more than equal to the combined pensions of the retired
+co-operators for one year. From this particular source, would flow an
+additional fund for educational work in pushing the movement before the
+public.
+
+"Viewed in this light, to be retired on two-thirds pay at the age of
+fifty, is simply a matter of justice! When justice is done, the mission
+of charity is finished!
+
+"In considering the growing interest in the insurance question among
+people of the outside world, we find great numbers of laboring people,
+and of small farmers everywhere, who are beginning to understand that it
+is a question of vital importance, an open gateway through which they
+may gain access to the broad fields of abundance. Every day, both by
+observation and experience, they are taught that without the aid of some
+special insurance, nine out of ten who start in business fail. Also,
+that nine farmers out of ten, who start with a meagre capital, after
+twenty years of constant toil, find themselves the slaves of some money
+lender who holds a mortgage on the farm. These mortgages are largely the
+result of a hopeful struggle on the farmer's part, in a last vain effort
+to compete with the expensive methods of syndicate and bonanza farms.
+
+"No wonder the average worker is anxious to discover some method of
+insurance, that will safe-guard him against the disasters which have
+overwhelmed so many of his predecessors! No wonder these workers come to
+believe it possible, that out of a given number of say one thousand
+men, who start in life without capital, except such as they possess in
+ordinary health and strength; at least fifty per cent are liable to die
+in the poor-house, or in some way become helpless dependents on charity!
+Against such an alarming proposition, the average optimist or plutocrat,
+cries out, impossible! No, No! In this Republic, such things could never
+happen! Besides, how preposterous! Don't you know, that the general
+prosperity of the country was never greater than now! Why the wealth of
+the nation is growing at a marvelous rate! Never before, were fortunes
+made so easily! The way is open for every industrious man; no matter how
+poor he may be at the start. If people come to want in the midst of such
+golden opportunities, they have only themselves to blame.
+
+"By way of an answer to these optimistic assertions, let us apply the
+figures collected by Prof. A. G. Warner, published in his 'American
+Charities.' In this book he has tabulated the results of fifteen
+investigations, both in this country and abroad, into the actual causes
+of poverty. These investigations embrace over one hundred thousand
+individual cases, found in the cities of Baltimore, New York, Boston,
+Cincinnati, London, England, and seventy-six cities in Germany. In the
+causes of poverty stated, eleven per cent are due to intemperance, ten
+and three-tenths per cent to other kinds of misconduct; while
+seventy-four and four-tenths per cent are due to misfortune, such as
+poorly-paid work, lack of work, sickness, etc. Here, we have actual
+proof that seventy-five thousand in the ranks of this vast army of
+poverty-stricken people, were reduced to such straits, by causes which
+they could not control. How dreadful the significance of these terrible
+figures! What a blot they become, on the fair page of progress achieved
+by the nineteenth century! What a warning to the people of the
+twentieth! What an indictment against existing, social, and industrial
+conditions! What argument could be more convincing, or demand more
+imperatively, the immediate adoption of co-operative methods, which
+offer absolute insurance against the recurrence of such calamities?
+
+"As relating to the insurance question, and by the way of a contrast
+between competitive and co-operative methods, let us consider the
+following statement.
+
+"We learn from statistics, that for the family of a skilled workman of
+the better class--a family of five persons--the average annual cost of
+living is $420. This includes food, shelter, raiment, fuel, laundry,
+light, water, medical attendance, medicine, education and recreation.
+
+"Under the competitive system, to earn this sum required, on the part of
+the adults and such of the children as were able to work, the continuous
+toil of three hundred days, twelve hours long--counting the possible
+workers of the family as three, and the labor day as twelve hours
+long--we have in the aggregate, say eleven thousand weary hours of this
+nerve depressing labor. A labor often performed in the midst of the most
+repulsive and unsanitary conditions; to which the toilers were
+constantly goaded by the cruel spur of necessity. This is a picture of
+the living expenses and daily working life of a family of the superior
+class, far above the average among the workers under the competitive
+system.
+
+"To illustrate what the co-operative system can do, let us transfer the
+account of this family, to a co-operative agricultural colony like this.
+On the basis of three hundred days of labor annually, we should have
+daily for the two adults--the children being in school--six hours of
+productive labor and two hours of educative labor, an aggregate of four
+thousand, eight hundred hours, of work for the year. This work would be
+separated by such generous periods of rest and recreation, and performed
+amidst such pleasant surroundings, that the worker could truthfully
+count them as so many hours spent in necessary healthful exercise.
+
+"As a result of this labor, we could place the annual income of the
+family at $1,800. All available, for providing the very best of food,
+shelter, clothing, heat, light, laundry, hospital service, medical
+attendance, medicine, education and amusement. Also superior social
+surroundings, with increased facilities for being well born; with
+educative advantages, embracing a higher order of intellectual
+amusements, art-culture, musical training, and industrial skill.
+
+"In addition, the family would enjoy a savings account of generous
+proportions, represented by the constantly increasing value of the farm,
+its stock, crops, buildings, store and goods, material, machinery,
+industrial plants, orchards, vineyards and forests.
+
+"Still better! They would have savings in the sinking fund, providing
+land, and homes for their children and grand-children in a long line of
+future generations.
+
+"Best of all! This family would have savings in the insurance fund,
+providing for an old age of ease and comfort, free from care, sweetened
+and brightened by leisure, travel and the refinements of study, art and
+music!
+
+"In striking a balance between these two accounts, we discover a
+difference in favor of the co-operative system, with its magical
+insurance, which is wider, deeper and more startling than the difference
+between the illustrations of Dante's Inferno, and the descriptions of
+Milton's paradise!
+
+"A careful study of this insurance question, has taught our people many
+valuable lessons. They have learned to consider from a new standpoint,
+the object and purpose of life, and the amount of work necessary to
+support that life.
+
+"They have learned that poverty is a needless crime against progress,
+which can and must be abolished!
+
+"They have learned, that in these days of general prosperity, marked by
+a wealth of labor-saving machinery, never before dreamed possible,
+co-operation has demonstrated, that an average of but six hours each
+day, devoted to farm work, will abundantly supply the means which will
+yield them, the highest advantages of birth, education, amusement, and
+everything necessary to a healthful enjoyment of life.
+
+"They have learned that the true purpose of work, is not to make and
+hoard money; but to secure these advantages for themselves and their
+children.
+
+"They have learned that money is not a necessity; that it is only the
+means to an end. They have learned that confidence in each other, among
+members of a co-operative colony, working unselfishly together, largely
+takes the place of money.
+
+"They have learned that practical education equips them with a
+knowledge, of how to deal justly with each other, in all the social
+relations of life.
+
+"They have learned that the pathway which leads to success, in winning
+the largest measure of all these advantages, is reached by adopting
+unselfish methods, which will insure the welfare of all. They have
+learned that this condition may be attained by building up co-operative
+systems that furnish remunerative self employment, and at the same time
+enables them to enjoy free access to the natural sources of life.
+
+"They have learned that this free access cannot be secured, without
+first obtaining permanent control of the necessary tracts of land, not
+less than ten acres per capita. They have learned that these tracts
+should contain at least five thousand acres, in order to properly
+support an industrial co-operative colony of one thousand people.
+
+"They have learned that the social, ethical and intellectual advantages
+offered to the individual, by this co-operative colony life, are even
+greater than those relating to the question of finance.
+
+"They have learned, that when selfish distrust of each other is once
+banished from the minds of the workers by the force of repeated examples
+of co-operative success; then, it will be practical and easy to organize
+the farms and farm laborers of this Republic, with its army of the poor
+and the unemployed of every class, into systems of co-operative farm
+villages, or similar industrial associations.
+
+"In this knowledge our people rejoice! They are filled with an unselfish
+desire to spread the good news broadcast! Can you, my dear Fern! imagine
+for them, a purpose in life more noble or more worthy?"
+
+"No, my dear Fillmore! I cannot! So eloquently have you stated the
+case, that the outlook for the future is glorious! How graphically you
+have pictured the growing importance of this question of insurance! I am
+amazed, and more deeply interested than ever! I never before dreamed it
+possible, that the co-operative farm could offer so much defense against
+the calamities of life, which grow out of the pinching pressure of
+poverty!
+
+"The scheme for providing for the members of the Mother's Club, and for
+retiring co-operators at the age of fifty, meets my enthusiastic
+approval! I am sure it will commend itself to the workers and thinkers
+of the world! To me, it seems admirable, from every point of view!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+THE MOTHER'S CLUB.
+
+
+"Mark it well, Fillmore! I have now reached a very important question.
+What have you to tell me about stirpiculture, as a part of the
+co-operative farm movement?"
+
+"As a basis for the preliminary work, we have been following carefully,
+the suggestions of your father, Fennimore Fenwick. You will remember, my
+dear Fern, that they were to the effect, that the children of the farm,
+should be the crowning glory of all its products; that it should be the
+province of the corporation to provide for the children of the
+co-operators, every advantage of favorable pre-natal conditions, birth,
+unfoldment and education, that money could procure for the wealthy.
+Therefore, that ideal environments for mothers and motherhood, must be
+created and maintained.
+
+"In order to carry out these epoch-making ideas, such of our matrons as
+are willing to assume the conditions, responsibilities, and cares of
+motherhood, are relieved from all farm work, at any time they may chose.
+However, much of the work is so enjoyable, and affords so much pleasant
+exercise, that many of them become volunteers. Meanwhile, they are paid
+regular wages from our insurance fund. With this abundant leisure and
+freedom from care, they are prepared to become zealous workers in the
+Mother's Club.
+
+"Our Mother's Club at Solaris, was organized by Gertrude Gerrish, as the
+fulfillment of a long cherished dream. She has reason to be proud of her
+work! Like that other Gertrude, made so famous by Pestalozzi's charming
+story, Gertrude Gerrish is a born teacher, an ideal mother, one of
+nature's noble women. Much of the success attained by the club, is due
+to her wonderful power as a leader. Her enthusiasm is infectious. It has
+carried all obstacles before it. To this self appointed task, she has
+given her best energies, a rich harvest of ripe experience, with its
+fruitage of earnest thought, radiant and glowing with the genial
+influence of her sunny temperament, and withal, rendered more potent, by
+an overflowing love from the deep fountain of her great mother heart. Is
+it a matter of wonder, that she is such a general favorite with club
+members! Her word they accept as law. Her suggestions as commands.
+
+"To Gertrude Gerrish, motherhood was a holy and sacred office, which
+demanded from its devotees, a season of careful preparation, and a
+thorough knowledge of the physiological and psychological laws, which
+govern that life-evolving function, that crowning glory of womanhood.
+She seemed to be inspired with the idea, that progress has ordained,
+that unwilling, ignorant and accidental mothers, must be replaced by
+those who are predetermined, properly educated and fully prepared. These
+ideas, she has endeavored to impress most forcibly, upon the minds of
+all club members. She has also taught them the importance of maintaining
+joyous, healthful, mental conditions; consequently, of carefully
+avoiding all emotions of selfishness, cruelty, anger, envy, or
+melancholy. In this connection, for the purpose of creating in the minds
+of our club mothers, as many good and pleasurable emotions as possible,
+and of repeating these anabolic emotions so often, that they may become
+dominant during the entire gestative period; Gertrude Gerrish has wisely
+planned for them, a great deal of open air exercise, study and
+amusement.
+
+"The study of botany, and botanizing parties, have become very popular.
+These prospective mothers, have quickly learned how to amuse themselves,
+by combining study with pleasure. When organized into congenial outing
+parties, almost every fine day they may be found, seated in the
+luxuriously appointed motor carriages which belong to the club, ready
+for a lively spin away to the woods. This gives them an opportunity to
+enjoy the pure air and bright sunshine, the wide, undulating landscape,
+tinted by the exquisite coloring of every flowering plant, shrub and
+tree. How delightful to them, is the restful green of dewy meadows; the
+sweet music of birds, the charming chatter and playful antics, of the
+swift-footed squirrels! How grateful, the leafy coolness and bracing
+ozone of the forest; the dancing shadows of its deep glens, with their
+garnered treasures of mosses and ferns! How inspiring, the merry tinkle
+of the clear streamlet, swiftly flowing over its rocky bed; or the
+louder roar of the rushing waterfall, where drooping boughs glisten and
+sparkle with spray-laden foliage! All these, are nature's matchless
+charms, which appeal to our young mothers in their best moments, their
+most responsive moods; banishing all thoughts of evil, awakening in
+their hearts, new spiritual impulses, feelings of worshipful adoration;
+emotions of the highest and purest order. Than this, nothing could prove
+more helpful in maintaining perfect conditions of mental and spiritual
+serenity.
+
+"Inhaling the pure, invigorating air of the country, far from the dust
+and filth, the smoke and poisonous gases, the turmoil and strife, the
+ceaseless din, the selfishness and sin of the great city, close to the
+fostering bosom of mother earth, under a broad dome of blue sky, bathed
+in floods of golden sunlight, exulting in the exuberance of perfect
+health, these grateful young mothers, realize how much they owe to the
+co-operative farm movement, for surrounding them with such ideal
+conditions of life.
+
+"They realize, the great, good fortune of children, who are born and
+reared in the midst of such delightful environments. They perceive, with
+a keen sense of sorrow, that children who are born and bred away from
+these rural conditions, are robbed of more than one-half their natural
+rights. They realize, more than ever before, the filth, the misery, the
+squalor, the fetid air, and the unsanitary conditions, of our great
+cities. They shudder, when they contemplate, the bitterness of the
+misfortune, the cruelty of the deprivation, of the great mass of
+children, who must be born and bred in the midst of such depressing,
+unhealthy surroundings. They know intuitively, that only a puny, sickly,
+half-developed race of people, can come from such a sad birth. Under
+such circumstances, they do not wonder, that fully one-third of the
+human family, die in infancy.
+
+"Indoors, the handsomely furnished, beautifully decorated club rooms,
+which are located in the kindergarten building, offer the maximum of
+elegance and comfort to club members. There, in harmonious groups, they
+may engage in conversation, study, writing, musical exercises, and other
+varieties of club work. The esthetic tastes of the members are
+quickened, and their pleasures much enhanced, by the fine display of oil
+paintings, water colors, pencil sketches, etchings, and photographs,
+which have been hung on the walls, by admiring friends from the art and
+photography clubs. It has been the chosen work of the last named club,
+to supply the center tables in the reading rooms, with a series of large
+portfolios, containing a choice collection of finely finished,
+beautifully mounted photographs. This collection is varied, unique and
+valuable; and withal, exceedingly interesting. It embraces artistic
+copies of the world's finest statuary, pictures of eminent men, noted,
+historic buildings, rare landscapes and most picturesque scenery. These,
+supplemented by an abundant supply of choice books, furnish excellent
+conditions, and a most fascinating incentive, for a harmonious,
+satisfying, self-culture, of the highest type. Under the able leadership
+of Gertrude Gerrish, the interest shown, the enthusiasm awakened, and
+the progress achieved, is something remarkable.
+
+"Thus prepared, the members find themselves on a higher mental and
+spiritual plane of existence, where they can appreciate the
+possibilities, of what may be accomplished by true motherhood, as a
+regenerator of society. They can understand the significance of the
+great lesson taught by history, which is, that all progress for the
+race, depends upon the elevation, education and refinement, achieved by
+woman. With quickened vision, they can perceive, that with the dawn of
+the twentieth century, comes the beginning of a new cycle in the life of
+the planet; the commencement of woman's golden era! In the higher light
+of such a vision, they become aware, that they must strive continually,
+for more wisdom, that they may reach a higher consciousness of
+individual responsibility, as keepers and guardians of the sacred temple
+of human life.
+
+"In the preparatory work for a progressive parentage, club members are
+taught, that prospective fathers and mothers, must become familiar with
+the sciences, the industrial, and the higher arts, if they wish their
+children to inherit, whatever intellectual progress, they as parents,
+may achieve. The new psychology, with a better knowledge of nature's
+evolutionary methods, declares, that these trained intellectual
+attributes, may be transmitted to offspring, if the parents are willing
+to prepare themselves, to respond to the demands of natural law.
+
+"In the domain of more practical club work, the members are taught how
+to prepare the diet and clothing, which may be necessary for the proper
+care of healthy nursing mothers and infants. They are also taught the
+hygiene and physiology of motherhood; in addition, as much as possible,
+about the laws that govern the procreative body of woman, when it
+becomes the temple of evolving life. In connection therewith, they are
+instructed to observe closely, the initial and pre-natal conditions,
+which dominate this primal stage of embryo life.
+
+"As a result of this comprehensive course of training, our young mothers
+soon find themselves, inspired by a hypnotic wave of enthusiasm, which
+is sure to follow many days of pleasant association, discussion, and
+systematic study. Stimulated by this enthusiasm, and aided by the
+potency of co-operative thinking, they endeavor to discover new avenues,
+through which they may reach and maintain, better physical, mental and
+spiritual conditions, which shall bring them into a more perfect
+harmony, with the laws of unfoldment which govern planetary evolution.
+The success, which has rewarded their efforts in this direction, has far
+exceeded, even the ambitious hopes of Gertrude Gerrish.
+
+"For the purpose of preserving a series of valuable records, for the
+benefit of this and coming generations; club members are urged to put in
+writing, such ideas as may come to them, as the result of individual
+thought, or from co-operative study, discussion and observation. These
+papers are carefully condensed, sifted, classified, and placed in proper
+record form, by the editing committee of the club. This committee, is
+also instructed to prepare short extracts, essays and descriptive
+articles relating to club work, for publication in the mothers' column
+of the Solaris Sentinel.
+
+"This outline sketch, my dear Fern, will give you some idea of the scope
+of the work, in which, I know you are greatly interested. In brief, it
+means a practical illustration, of the use of scientific methods, for
+improving the race. The club hopes to give a satisfactory answer to the
+great question, of how to be well born. It will strive to convince the
+world, that the time has arrived, in which the twentieth century demands
+the immediate introduction of a scientific system, for the thorough
+breeding of children as a fine art. The art of all arts! The highest of
+all possible achievements!
+
+"Hitherto, the world's people, in trying to accumulate riches, or to
+escape the poorhouse, have had neither time nor inclination, to consider
+this most important of all questions. As a matter of fact, greed for
+gold has become so dominant, human life, so cheap, and its progress
+through culture, held in such low estimation; that it is not unusual,
+not even a matter of comment, to hear of a wealthy stockbreeder, who
+willingly pays from ten to twenty thousand dollars a year to the trainer
+of his horses; while he grudgingly pays five hundred dollars a year to
+the teacher of his children. This would indicate, that the demand for a
+change is imperative. The great wave of evolutionary progress, is fast
+rising to a flood tide! The selfish, commercial spirit, born of the
+competitive system, must soon give way for something better! The advent
+of a system of unselfish, co-operative farming, which proposes to unite
+a rational agriculture, with a scientific stirpiculture, offers
+opportunities for substantial progress, and a new hope for the coming
+race."
+
+"This is exceedingly interesting, Fillmore! What additional work, has
+Gertrude Gerrish planned for the club members?"
+
+"A great deal more than I have time to enumerate, just now! However, by
+the way of an illustration of her ingenious methods, and also, of the
+great variety of the topics introduced, all of which really belong to
+the work, as an integral part of the movement. I may mention the latest
+scheme introduced by Gertrude Gerrish, which proposes to increase the
+average length of human life, by giving to children as a birthright,
+well developed vital, physical, and mental organizations. This, she
+claims, is the only true ground work, for real progress in the right
+direction. The scheme has proved a popular one. It has so aroused the
+zeal and enthusiasm of the club members, that they write, think and talk
+on the subject, with an inspiration and eloquence quite surprising. As a
+result of the remarkable interest awakened, they have diligently read
+books on evolution, physiology, psychology, vital statistics, physical
+culture, and a great number, on the general subject of health. In this
+respect, the work of the club as a promoter of longevity, may well serve
+as an object lesson, for the hundred-year clubs, that have been
+organized during the past ten years, for the purpose of checking the
+alarming increase of suicide clubs.
+
+"Touching the question of suicide, as an enemy to longevity: In
+discussing the subject, many members of the club maintain, that it is an
+imperative duty for them to give the world a new cure for suicide. They
+would offer its would-be victims, such a tempting array of the meanings,
+purposes and opportunities, for gaining wisdom, which may crown every
+rightly conducted, harmoniously environed life; making it so busy, so
+absorbing, and so happy; that there would be no room, for the morbid
+hallucination of a suicidal desire. This proposition is based on the
+presumption, that all suicides are possessed with an insanely erroneous
+idea, regarding the true object and purpose of human life. After the
+passing of a few generations, under the wide-spread reign of
+co-operative stirpiculture, with its hosts of mothers' clubs, suicide
+will soon become an utter impossibility.
+
+"In the ever broadening scope, of progressive kindergarten training, our
+young mothers have wrought their most important work. A work, which
+reflects on the club, a great deal of well-earned credit. As centers of
+the first and second-year nursery groups, in their cargosita excursions
+around the great hall, for the purpose of sight, color and image
+training; the service rendered by these mothers, has proved invaluable.
+As teachers, assistants, directors and leaders, in the third and
+fourth-year groups, while engaged in exercises and games, which have
+been devised and instituted, for the purpose of sense training, science
+training, and science recreation; in addition to the ordinary
+kindergarten course; their excellent work, has justly excited the pride
+of the colony.
+
+"In conclusion, my dear Fern! I must tell you something about 'The club
+babies,' as they are proudly designated by the members. They are very
+bright and beautiful! In fact, they seem born with a consciousness, that
+it is their peculiar privilege, to commence the study of life as a fine
+art, at its very threshold. They are the zealously guarded treasures of
+the club, and the pride of the farm! They give a glorious promise, that
+they will prove worthy leaders, of a coming host of dominant thinkers,
+which are to be given to the world, by the mothers' clubs of the next
+quarter of a century.
+
+"As champions and exponents of the true object and purpose of human
+life, these thinkers will be armed with a wonderful potency, with which
+to overcome and conquer, the selfish reign of the competitive system. A
+cruel system, which has proved the very incarnation, of 'Man's
+inhumanity to man,' causing countless millions to mourn! In this great
+work, they will be inspired, by the high purpose of replacing its evil,
+poverty-breeding dominancy, by an unselfish, co-operative system, a
+union of spiritualizing, educative, stirpiculture and agriculture, which
+shall insure a higher civilization, and the perpetual reign of peace and
+plenty for all mankind."
+
+"What you have told to me so charmingly, Fillmore, is almost too good to
+be true! How eloquently, and how interestingly, you have described, the
+scope and work of this wonderful club, with its gifted leader! I hail
+the advent of this club, as one of the most important results, achieved
+by the Solaris Farm Company! I am delighted, with its thorough
+organization, broad plans, high aims, earnest work, and the remarkable
+enthusiasm, of its members! They represent a cause, which is dear to my
+heart!
+
+"The question, of how to be well born, is to my mind, the foremost
+question of the day! A question, which demands universal consideration!
+This twentieth century union, of agriculture and stirpiculture, this
+scientific, systematic, generation of the race as a fine art; which has
+been so well demonstrated, by the surprising work of these enthusiastic
+young mothers, is something to be proud of! The good, which must follow
+the work of this club, cannot now be estimated. The one hope, for the
+regeneration and final salvation of society, is centered in the mothers
+of the Republic! Nothing, is so well calculated to impress the
+importance of this grand truth, on the minds of the people, as the
+practical work of an ever increasing host of mothers' clubs.
+
+"In their devotion to the Republic, these mothers are patriots of the
+purest type! They have arisen to such spiritual heights, that they may
+fearlessly proclaim the law of motherhood, for the sons and daughters of
+the new Republic! They have demonstrated that this law declares, that a
+worthy mother of the new Republic, must be absolutely free! She must be
+free, religiously, mentally, socially, physically, and financially! Thus
+unshackled, she may be properly prepared, to bear a race of children who
+are endowed by birth, with the incarnate spirit and genius of true
+liberty. Such liberty, as shall become the talisman and watchword, of
+the model Republic of the twentieth century. A Republic of peers, of
+intellectual giants! The very flower of spiritual unfoldment! The
+highest order of civilization! Under the starry flag of such a
+government, neither slave, nor pauper, nor criminal, shall be found to
+cloud with shame, the fair escutcheon of true liberty!
+
+"I shall endeavor, before leaving Solaris, to meet with the members, by
+attending some session of the club. I shall then take pleasure in
+restating these ideas, as an expression of my appreciation of the great
+work for humanity, which they have so successfully inaugurated.
+
+"To Gertrude Gerrish, that noble woman, with such a magnificent talent,
+and so loyal a heart; who has won my deepest gratitude, my undying
+respect; I must pay the tribute of my admiration, by taking her lovingly
+to my heart, as a sister woman, whose wonderful ability, as a thinker,
+organizer, and leader, has made me proud of my sex."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM AS A FACTOR IN THE CAPITAL AND LABOR PROBLEM.
+
+
+"I am curious to know, to what extent co-operative farming will effect
+the capital and labor problem. What think you, Fillmore?"
+
+"No doubt the effect will be very marked. Many of the solutions arrived
+at in experimenting with the insurance question, will apply with equal
+force towards a final solution of the capital and labor problem. The
+toiler once having been taught the art of self-employment, that will
+furnish him superior conditions for a perfected healthful enjoyment of
+life, with all of the advantages for himself and his children that money
+can buy for the wealthy; can never again become the working slave of
+capital. He has learned, by a practical lesson, very similar to the
+famous 'Gurnsey Market House' exploit, that labor unaided by capital,
+can produce an abundance of things which go to make up the wealth of the
+nation, the community or the individual; while capital unaided by labor
+can produce nothing.
+
+"In searching for a remote cause for this ever growing warfare between
+capital and labor, which has so long vexed our Republic; and which, even
+now, threatens its final disintegration; we soon discover our arch
+enemy, the competitive system, as the party responsible for the
+mischief. This fact becomes more apparent, as we consider, that from the
+beginning of the historical period, people in a fierce struggle for
+existence, have been compelled by the competitive system, to wage a
+brutal, relentless warfare with each other. Always the stronger,
+against the weaker. In this wicked war, millions of human lives have
+been sacrificed to the fiery moloch of selfish greed.
+
+"The older the civilization the more fiercely has the war been waged;
+until to-day, thousands among the lower classes everywhere, dwarfed and
+embittered by a hopeless struggle to sustain life, in a ceaseless combat
+with competing foes on every hand; spurred to a frenzy of fury, curse
+the day which gave them birth. Why should they live only to suffer? With
+moral natures starved and withered, they declare that all justice is a
+mockery, all honesty, a myth! They have lost faith in God, and
+confidence in man! They care not for the needs of posterity, or for the
+nemesis of a future existence! In this desperate condition, they either
+commit suicide, or become an easy prey to the temptation, to join the
+outlaws in taking the world by the throat. From such material is formed
+the dregs of society, that lower social strata of living dynamite, that
+constant menace, which threatens in the near future, to destroy all
+civilization which rests upon it. This is a typical piece of the
+handiwork of the competitive system, a system in which the roots of
+society to-day are grounded.
+
+"Once seriously considered in this light, how can any sane person, who
+believes in an All-Wise Creator, in justice and mercy, in a common
+brotherhood for humanity, ever again defend the wickedness, of a society
+based on the selfish cruelty of such a system? What treatment may
+unorganized, unprotected labor, expect from this system?
+
+"Hitherto, fortunately for the progress of the world, the laborers of
+this Republic, have enjoyed more of the advantages of life, than those
+of any other country. With better wages and shorter hours for work, they
+have been able to educate themselves and their children, to a degree
+that would fit them to become good citizens of the Republic. A republic
+which for its continued existence, depends on the integrity, ability and
+intelligence of its working units. As such, our laborers have proved
+themselves the best in the world. Now, alas! The whole industrial
+situation is changed by the swift dominancy of the competitive system,
+with its ever increasing brood of trusts, which have swallowed up all
+natural opportunities, and monopolized all the leading business
+enterprises, of this hitherto progressive nation.
+
+"The people of the Republic are divided into two classes; the employers,
+and the employed. The invention and introduction of new and expensive
+machinery each year, augments the power of the trusts, to control the
+markets and the industrial situation. By the same means and at the same
+time, they are fast reducing the number of employers, and increasing the
+number of those who must seek employment. Under such circumstances, each
+year the fate of the worker in any class, either skilled or unskilled,
+grows more desperate. He becomes more completely the slave of the trusts
+or capitalists who own the tools and who monopolize the industries. The
+larger the dependent family of the worker, the more abject the slavery,
+and the less his power to resist a constant reduction of wages.
+
+"In the efforts made by organized labor unions, to resist this tendency
+to reduce wages, we have both the cause and the beginning of the war
+between capital and labor. With a courage and patriotism worthy of the
+days of 'Seventy-Six,' this war has been waged by the toilers, with a
+determination to maintain rights guaranteed to them by the constitution
+of the Republic. A right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
+A right to labor and to enjoy the fruits of their labor, by having free
+access to a reasonable share of the natural advantages belonging to the
+public domain.
+
+"In this heroic struggle, so sturdily maintained during the past
+twenty-five years against the competitive system and its well trained
+hosts; the campaign, which has been marked by many mistakes, followed by
+frequent defeat and disastrous failure, has always proved successful as
+an educator, both for the toilers and the great middle classes, who
+sympathized with them. On the other hand, alarmed by sudden success,
+achieved by the disruption of long-lived business methods, and the loss
+of confidence in exchange values, on the part of the public in
+consequence of this disruption; the generals of the competitive system,
+aided with but few exceptions, by the press, university and pulpit, have
+shrewdly endeavored to evade responsibility, for the disastrous panics
+which have followed such revolutionary methods. These panics have left
+the country disturbed and embarrassed, by armies of unemployed men.
+
+"In the same line of tactics, these competitive leaders, have endeavored
+to confuse the question, and to mystify the people, by raising the cry
+of over-production! The inexorable law of supply and demand! The
+impossibility of our manufacturers longer competing in the markets of
+the world, against the cheap products of the pauper labor of Europe,
+while they are obliged by the unions, to pay such exorbitant wages here.
+This cry has grown more insistent, with each succeeding year.
+Nevertheless, the fact still remains, that but for the continuous
+opposition of the united labor organizations, long before this time, the
+wages paid in Europe, would govern the price of labor in this Republic.
+What then would have happened to our workers, the basic units of our
+government? Fortunately, the campaign of education still continues! The
+people at large are just beginning to wake up to the importance of the
+labor question! They have studied it carefully and earnestly. They have
+learned that in productive labor, muscular effort is a mental
+demonstration.
+
+"They have learned, that the products of the skillfully educated,
+intelligent, refined, moral, self-respecting worker of this Republic,
+can successfully, compete with the inferior products, of a less
+intelligent or pauperized labor of any country, in any of the markets of
+the world. No matter how high the wages of the former, or how low the
+wages of the latter may be.
+
+"They have learned, that the demand, in any market for a superior
+article, will always drive out the inferior.
+
+"They have learned, that the question of the unemployed, is a question
+of the utmost importance, which demands the immediate attention of all
+patriots. They have learned, that the unemployed we shall have with us
+in ever increasing numbers, so long as the competitive system shall
+last.
+
+"They have learned, that not one from the ranks of the unemployed, can
+again become a worker, without paying a handsome bonus for the
+privilege, by allowing some one to pocket the lion's share of the
+profits he may be able to earn.
+
+"They have learned, that when society encourages conditions, which
+cause the laborer to look upon any calamity as a blessing in disguise,
+because it offers work for the unemployed; that society, must be
+reorganized.
+
+"They have learned, that whenever an industrial system produces
+conditions, which make the laborer see only disaster for his individual
+interests, in every labor-saving invention which may be introduced; such
+a system, must be superseded by a better one.
+
+"They have learned, that the competitive system, by the very nature and
+terms of its organization, obliges its followers to be selfish, cruel,
+heartless, unmanly and unpatriotic. They have learned, that its reign
+has become so dominant, that it justifies a recent writer of most
+excellent wit, who declares that 'Man by birth, education and training,
+has become so essentially selfish, that no preaching has any effect upon
+him, if it does not advise him to lay up treasures for himself
+somewhere.'
+
+"They have learned, that the dangers which most seriously threaten the
+perpetuity of our Republic, do not come from the clamor of dissatisfied
+laborers, who are wrongfully accused of law-breaking; but, that these
+dangers do come, from the lawlessness of capital, and the anarchy of
+corporations.
+
+"They have learned that so far as the interests of the working units of
+the Republic are concerned, or care for its continued existence as a
+representative government; the press, the university, and the pulpit,
+have all been syndicated and censored by the competitive system to such
+an extent, that they can no longer be trusted to furnish teachers,
+leaders, and guides.
+
+"They have learned, that the only safe course is, for the people to
+depend upon themselves, to develop and establish a new social and
+industrial order, from which shall spring a class of incorruptible
+leaders and statesmen, whose pure, unselfish motives, dominant, evenly
+developed minds, and superior ability, shall mark them as fitting rulers
+for a more perfect Republic. Such a Republic as shall meet the demands
+of a twentieth century progress.
+
+"They have learned, that the remedy indicated is a change to an
+industrial system, that will secure to the laborer an equitable share of
+the benefits, which follow the introduction of labor-saving machinery.
+Under such conditions, the laborer himself, having more leisure and
+unexpended vitality, will be stimulated to increase his available
+resources by cultivating his brain capacity for invention, thereby
+largely increasing his power to produce.
+
+"After many years, the rank and file of the workers in the labor unions,
+have learned, that self-employment is the key to the situation. Although
+late, they have learned, that if all the money wasted in unsuccessful
+strikes, had been invested in the purchase of choice locations,
+undeveloped mines and mineral lands, and in the erection of
+manufacturing plants, the labor question would now be a thing of the
+past. They would be masters of the situation, to whom the capitalists
+would be glad to offer such a liberal system of profit-sharing, as would
+practically make the workmen self-employed, by reason of a part
+ownership in the enterprise they labored to exploit.
+
+"Finally, and most important of all; they have learned that all
+manufacturing industries, naturally grow out of agriculture. That the
+success of one, is the measure, for the success of the other. That they
+must co-operate to such an extent, that a constant, healthy growth of
+both, may be maintained.
+
+"They have become convinced of the imperative necessity for this
+equable, co-operative, progress, by a careful study of the threatening
+conditions which obtain, in countries where agriculture has declined;
+and where manufacturing industries have become abnormally predominant.
+In such countries, the food supply at once becomes a question of daily,
+nay of hourly importance. It must be imported from distant lands,
+subject to the tax of insurance, import and export duties, freight
+charges, and commissions. Under such adverse conditions, available
+supplies for but a few days only, stand between the toiler and gaunt
+hunger. Any catastrophe which may happen to already congested lines of
+transportation, will precipitate a famine. Then prices would go up with
+a bound. The constant menace of such a possibility, always serves to
+keep food-prices above the natural level of a fair profit. On the other
+hand, in countries where progress in agriculture and manufacture goes
+hand in hand; a constantly increasing home market for manufactured
+products is steadily maintained. A most important consideration! At the
+same time, the industrial centers have the advantage of the immediate
+vicinity of abundant food supplies, which are not subject to the
+vicissitudes of traffic or transportation, or to the tax of much
+handling.
+
+"In considering these things, the minds of a great majority of the
+laboring people, have been prepared to accept the conclusion, that the
+great question of the hour is, how to open the way for every worthy
+worker to become his own employer. The co-operative farm opens the way.
+Therefore, it is to these self-educated toilers in the ranks of the
+labor organizations, that the manifest advantages of co-operative
+farming will appeal most successfully. If properly approached, a
+majority of them would be, not only willing but anxious for an
+opportunity to give this new system of co-operative agriculture a
+thorough trial.
+
+"Having once become practically interested, these people would soon
+learn to consider the object and purpose of life from a new standpoint.
+From this new concept of the meaning and necessities of life, they would
+perceive that it did not require the hoarding of much wealth, in order
+to satisfy them. The insurance system in providing for the wants of old
+age, would forever banish the haunting specter of a pauper's death in
+the poor-house. They would then realize that money, was not so precious
+as a human life! They would clearly understand that money was an
+absolute necessity, only to those under the competitive system who had
+lost confidence in each other, and faith in the fact of a common
+brotherhood for humanity!
+
+"They would soon respond to happier surroundings, in every way so
+conducive to a natural, soul growth, and to the harmonious unfoldment of
+the individual from within. In this unfoldment, a new meaning for
+immortality would come to them. Spiritual law would become operative. It
+would teach them that, as immortal beings, as cosmic units of the larger
+cosmos--The Great Over Soul--they could not become totally depraved,
+even under pressure of evil conditions of the most degrading character;
+no matter how much their spiritual natures had been stained or starved.
+
+"With this new standard as a guide, there would come an inspiration to
+strive for the attainment of a higher, purer, better life. A life more
+in harmony with the design of an All-Wise Creator! Angry, antagonistic
+feelings, against hitherto competitors, would disappear. The world would
+wear a smile instead of a frown! Brotherly love between man and man,
+would become the rule in place of the exception! Gold would lose its
+charm! Avarice would pass away! Selfish instincts, born of bitter years
+under a cruel system would soon follow! Long dormant, spiritual natures
+would be awakened! A new spiritual growth would take place! A vastly
+wider, mental, and spiritual horizon, would be added to the wisdom of
+the individual! In the light of this wisdom would come the discovery,
+that the virtue of right living, bears the seeds of a perpetuity, which
+begets true and lasting happiness! An overwhelming answer in the
+affirmative, from every point of view, to the question, does it pay to
+be unselfish?
+
+"With higher ideals of life and its duties, these physically, mentally,
+and spiritually emancipated toilers, would find themselves prepared to
+co-operate most effectually, in establishing and maintaining any social
+and industrial evolution, which the best interests of the people and the
+Republic might demand.
+
+"From this presentation, my dear Fern! you may imagine how important and
+desirable it is, that these two powerful industrial forces should become
+harmoniously united in working for the interests of a natural
+progressive evolution. Against such an invincible combination, the hosts
+of the competitive system might not hope to prevail! Once thus united,
+each co-operative farm would then become the nucleus of a new industrial
+organization, capable of such unlimited expansion and perfection as the
+needs of surrounding communities might be able to sustain.
+
+"As this twin series of giant industries continued to grow and expand,
+the ways by which they might co-operate with mutual benefit, would
+continue to multiply. In political matters such a combination would
+prove remarkably strong; first in the township and county; later, in
+state and national legislatures, where it would soon be able to demand
+and push forward favorable legislation, and also to strangle much that
+might threaten to prove adverse. In such efforts, would come
+opportunities for introducing to the arena of public life, an abler,
+nobler, purer class of young men; who, born of a better social,
+industrial system, by reason of superior conditions for birth and
+training, would be properly endowed with that inspiring patriotism,
+sterling integrity, and commanding ability, so necessary to maintain the
+dominancy and perpetuity of the Republic, as a government of the people,
+for the people and by the people."
+
+"Bravo! Well done Fillmore! Your statement of the subject is grand,
+indeed! The eloquent summing up, forms a fitting climax in answer to my
+last question, the closing one of the series. But, as much as I admire
+and appreciate its general excellence, you must allow me to suggest one
+criticism. Do you not think Fillmore, that you put the case rather too
+strongly, when you place the press, the university and the pulpit, so
+completely under the control of trusts, or the leaders of the
+competitive system? Would they dare to do such a thing?"
+
+"Bless you my dear girl! They are capable of doing anything! So far as
+the trusts and the competitive system are concerned, I have stated the
+case very mildly. Not one-half of the story has been told. Let us probe
+this question a little deeper.
+
+"What is a trust? It is the highest form of monopoly. It is a nest of
+corporations, laid and hatched by the competitive system! It has neither
+conscience to hold it in check, nor soul to be damned! It dares to do
+anything! Indeed! It is formed for the sole purpose of making money.
+Nothing is allowed to stand in the way. Born of the consolidating
+pressure, which marks the competitive system, it seeks to monopolize all
+of the advantages of that cruel system, without incurring its penalties.
+Once thoroughly organized, and armed with the almost unlimited power of
+its enormous capital; the trust immediately commences the wholesale
+destruction of all opposing industries or interests. In pushing this
+work, it regards neither the equities of commercial law, nor the vested
+rights of others. Securely protected by its monopoly, this modern
+juggernaut in the commercial world, rolls remorselessly onward toward
+its goal of wealth. It cares not for the safety of worshippers, friends
+or foes. If by chance they represent competing interests, they must
+either leave the field or be crushed. There is no alternative! There is
+no escape!
+
+"A few of the leading trusts, those most completely representing the
+competitive system, have recently become so defiant, so audaciously
+bold, that they are prepared to undertake, to consolidate the business
+of the whole earth. They will stick at nothing! They have the gorge to
+swallow one government or ten! It matters little to them! Like the ring
+of conspirators, in Donnelley's 'Ceaser's Column,' a few of the leading
+spirits, of these daring trusts, are secretly plotting in Gotham! Just
+at present, they have their eyes fixed on the all-powerful money
+question. The vision seems a pleasing one!
+
+"What is that question, which so completely absorbs the attention of
+these people? Can it be possible, that the mills of the competitive
+system will grind up rich bankers, as unconcernedly as they do the
+helpless poor! They surely will! The plot grows and thickens! Let us
+give it close attention. Let us watch these people. Keeping in mind
+meanwhile, that hitherto, the bankers of the country, have complacently
+considered themselves masters and kings of the financial situation,
+whose thrones were secure for all time. Strongly intrenched behind
+well-filled money bags, they have felt themselves safe in helping the
+trusts to fleece the public. Now they are becoming alarmed. They are
+shaking in their fifteen-dollar boots! They behold that dreadful
+handwriting on the wall! In giant letters, seemingly towering forty feet
+tall, these bankers read the doom, which the trust conspirators are now
+preparing for them. They catch the frightful significance of the
+question, which the trust leaders are discussing. It is this. Why should
+the business of the United States, support such an army of banks? More
+than ten thousand. We know very well, that the entire money transactions
+of this country, could be handled more safely, more swiftly, and more
+cheaply, by one grand central institution. With one voice the
+conspirators exclaim! Let us form a pool! Let us consolidate the whole
+business, into one magnificent money trust! Let us select, say
+twenty-five, of the brainiest bankers in the business! Let us give them
+fat salaries, and make them superintendents of the financial agencies,
+now called banks. Counting the whole number of banks, both public and
+private, as ten thousand, with three professional bankers to each one,
+the result would be a total of thirty thousand bankers. Of this number,
+we could reduce twenty-nine thousand, nine hundred and seventy-five, to
+the station of bank clerks. Let us pause for a moment to contemplate the
+result! What enormous savings would accrue, by the introduction of such
+a wholesale scheme of consolidation! These savings would be ours!
+Intoxicated with the brilliancy and the hugeness of the idea; the
+conspirators with one impulse, spring to their feet, with outstretched
+hands they form a ring, they execute a round dance extraordinary. While
+thus engaged, they gaily shout, 'There is millions in it for us!'
+
+"No wonder the bankers are alarmed! With the exercise of one-half of
+their usual cunning and foresight, they should have scented the danger
+sooner. No doubt, they were so engrossed by the fascinating game of
+money grabbing, that they were wholly blind to danger, as the result of
+the combined audacity and perfidy of their former partners. They have
+evidently failed to learn one plain lesson, which is taught by the logic
+of events. It is this. When once fairly started, the process of the
+larger corporation, swallowing the lesser, goes forward with such an
+ever-increasing rate of speed, that it soon overtakes and gobbles up
+banks and bankers.
+
+"At this point, it is pertinent to propound the following questions: If
+this is a Republic? If the people are the government, and the government
+is the people? And if the consolidating business, is so good and so
+profitable for the trusts? Why, should not the government, own and run
+this giant central bank? Why, should it not own and operate the
+railroads, the canals, the shipping, the mines, the forests, and all
+other industries? This would give the people a chance to share equally,
+in the enjoyment of these enormous profits. Why not?
+
+"What say you my dear Fern! Would it not be infinitely better, than to
+allow the government to be swallowed by one monster trust?"
+
+"Better Fillmore! Far better! I am convinced! I withdraw my criticism.
+You have maintained your point so vigorously, that I have not the
+courage, to offer one single word in reply. I am ready and willing, to
+consider the discussion as finally closed."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+THE CO-OPERATIVE FARM TRIUMPHANT.
+
+
+The beginning of the second decade of the twentieth century, saw the
+final triumph of the co-operative farm at Solaris. The five years of
+trial and probation, have swiftly passed into history. The labors of the
+colony, have been crowned with a rich harvest of success. A great work
+for humanity, has been accomplished. A grand lesson in the economics of
+unselfish co-operation, has been demonstrated. A kaleidoscope of new
+charms, of fresh beauty, of an infinite variety of change, of unexpected
+opportunities, of a host of new expressions, in the possibilities of
+social and industrial life; the culmination of untried methods, new
+hopes and new aspirations; have marked this victorious climax. All have
+contributed, to the happiness of the contented villagers at Solaris;
+filling their hearts with brighter hopes for the future.
+
+A new era in agriculture has dawned. With it has come, a new order of
+life for farm people. The links of social life, have become more firmly
+knit. New chains of enthusiastic interest, in the humanitarian work
+represented by the farm, have been forged by the binding associations of
+passing years. Ethical, industrial and spiritual life, has been
+unfolded, in harmony with the law of progressive planetary evolution.
+
+As an illustration of the perfected possibilities of rural life, this
+suggestive and pleasing picture is well nigh complete. Verily! Virtue
+has been richly rewarded, by the pure pleasure of right living! To the
+truths of these things, the lives of the unselfish co-operators at
+Solaris, bear most abundant and convincing testimony. Happiness and
+contentment, reign supreme! Social solutions, offer new fields of
+pleasure to a generous, progressive people, who are daily becoming
+better educated, more dominant as thinkers, more unselfish in all
+things, therefore, more virtuous.
+
+In passing from the experimental, to a more perfect stage of
+co-operative life, a marvelous change for the better is noted. New
+factories have been built, new industries instituted, and organized. The
+busy hum of industrial prosperity, everywhere claims attention.
+Meanwhile, the demands for a better esthetic culture, have not been
+neglected. The interiors of both factory and workshop, have been made
+additionally attractive, by a more artistic, educative class of
+decorations. All industrial buildings, are surrounded by well-kept
+lawns.
+
+Many handsome cottages, showing a great variety of beautiful designs,
+cosey, vine-clad and picturesque, environed by gardens and lawns, have
+been added to the architectural display of the village. Order, symmetry
+and cleanliness, have become the established law of the farm.
+
+Barns, stables, stock yards, pig pens and poultry yards, have been
+placed at a safe distance from the village. In the erection of these
+necessary buildings, care has been taken, to provide for the removal and
+sanitary dry storage, of the daily accumulation of valuable manures.
+Especially designed machinery, accomplishes this otherwise unpleasant
+task, quickly and easily. By this convenient arrangement, with a very
+little labor, these buildings, and the stock housed in them, can at all
+times, be kept healthy and clean. A most important consideration!
+
+Everywhere, appear evidences, of the farms increasing wealth in live
+stock. Great herds of fine cattle, are fattening in the fields, pastures
+and barns. Prize collections of choice sheep, are roaming over grassy
+slopes. Fine droves of well grown, healthy swine, in assorted lots, are
+contentedly feeding in small fields of fresh clover. The large drove of
+beautiful, highly bred horses, is a very valuable one. The poultry
+yards, are filled with many varieties of fine fowls. All show the
+effects of careful attention, from the hands of care takers, who are
+both kind and skillful.
+
+On the opposite side of the village, near the nursery, the numerous fish
+ponds are located. Flower bordered, island studded, and tree margined,
+with surfaces dotted here and there, by tiny fleets of graceful,
+shell-like pleasure boats. They add much to the rare beauty of this
+pastoral picture. Beneath the rippling surface of the clear water, in
+these miniature lakes, flash the shining scales of a swarming host, of
+the most delicious of food fishes.
+
+Fragrant, purple and gold, the heavily laden vineyards, are growing and
+glowing in the bright sunlight. They give promise of an early generous
+fruitage. Thrifty orchards of healthy well-grown fruit trees, including
+many varieties, are fast coming to maturity. Waving fields of golden
+grain, ripple in the simmering heat of a noon-day sun, or rustle and
+billow with each passing breeze, under the pale light of a harvest moon.
+Beautiful fields of cotton and corn, are an inspiration to behold. Fine
+fields of vegetables, nurseries, gardens and shrubberies, with a wealth
+of lovely flower plots, all add to the charm of the general effect.
+
+The extension of the co-operative system, to embrace the second farm,
+has been well started. Fenwick Farm, is the name chosen for this farm
+number two, of the series. Two years of intelligent, well-directed work,
+by its wide awake, industrious people, have shown surprising results!
+They are constantly inspired to do better work by the hope of being able
+to reach a degree of success, equal to that achieved by Solaris. In this
+respect, the spirit of healthy rivalry, which has arisen, gives them an
+advantage, which the parent colony did not have. The success already
+attained by Fenwick Farm, has attracted widespread attention, in the
+surrounding communities. The effect for the good of the county, and of
+its people, socially, politically and financially, has been quite
+remarkable. The tax payers of the county, are delighted! They have been
+completely won over, to the side of co-operative farming, by the force
+of this second example.
+
+One of the greatest gains, which has arisen from co-operative effort
+for mutual benefit, between the two colonies, has been practically
+illustrated, in the great work of road building. These two co-operative
+farm villages, are now connected by a broad, smooth, well graded road.
+This road, ten miles in length, is margined by a wide strip of
+beautifully kept parking. Five miles of this parking, on either side of
+this magnificent boulevard, become the especial care, of each village.
+No city in the union, could display better taste, or greater pride, in
+keeping these beautiful parks, in the most perfect condition.
+
+In order to keep the park lawns, foliage and flowers, always looking
+clean and bright, it becomes necessary to keep this road free from dust.
+For this purpose, the entire road surface, is given a frequent
+sprinkling with petroleum. After each sprinkling, the enormous pressure
+of an hundred-ton roller, soon converts the layer of moistened dust,
+into a hard, smooth mass of oily rock. This process is repeated until a
+thick, heavy, durable surface of water-proof rock, is secured. This
+makes an ideal road! The hard, well pounded, gravelly soil, below, gives
+a permanent foundation, because it is so well protected against
+moisture, by this broad, indestructible roof of oily rock. The wide,
+slightly rounded surface of the road, sheds water like a duck's back.
+Consequently, it is always free from mud and dust. The broad rubber
+tires of a great variety of freight motors, pleasure mobiles and motor
+cycles, do not wear its perfect surface. The very acme of pleasure is
+reached, in riding over such a delightful road!
+
+After work hours have passed, the pleasure seekers from both villages,
+in merry congenial parties are awheel, enjoying to the utmost, the
+pure, sweet, flower-perfumed air, together with the soothing, restful
+beauty of a park lined drive, of such extent and variety, as a
+multi-millionaire, might not be able to command. Could anything more
+delightful be imagined! Is it any wonder, that people from adjoining
+counties, thirty miles away, come in droves, to enjoy a ride over this
+now famous road! In the hearts of all comers, is stirred the imitative
+spirit of rivalry. They return to their homes, determined to co-operate
+with their neighbors, at least to an extent that will enable them to
+build such roads for themselves. They are convinced, that the excellence
+of its roads, in any community, is the only sure test, which will
+indicate the exact degree of civilization, attained by its people.
+
+At the village of Solaris, the universal use of Solaris brick, of the
+various patterns and sizes, has proved an important factor in the
+construction of sidewalks, store houses, industrial buildings, cottages,
+the hotel, the schools and the theatre. The visitor is at once impressed
+by the wholesome, attractive, substantial appearance, given to the town
+by the use of this excellent and durable brick. In this respect, the
+square mosaic bricks, of unique design, used in laying the broad
+sidewalks, twenty feet in width, which border Railroad Avenue, the
+street leading straight from the public square, to the railroad station,
+create an effect so marked that it never fails to attract attention and
+admiration. The symmetrical trees and well-kept parking which line this
+avenue, serve to enhance the pleasing effect.
+
+The artistic skill acquired by the people of Solaris, in the making and
+laying of this new style of brick, adds another important advantage, to
+the long list offered by co-operative methods. In color, thickness,
+sanitary shapes, variety of designs, fire-proof qualities, polished
+smoothness and durability, these bricks recommend themselves to the
+favor of the general public, wherever they go. Without any effort in the
+line of advertising, the general demand for them has continued to
+increase, until brick-making has become the leading lucrative industry
+on the farm.
+
+Among the new buildings at Solaris, most worthy of mention, are the
+theatre, and the two large school buildings, on either side of it. These
+structures, are by far the finest ones in the village. The affectionate
+pride they excite in the hearts of the villagers, is well deserved.
+Centrally located, on the east side of the public square, this
+triumvirate of noble buildings, claims the admiration of the beholder,
+from any point of view on the open square. The front walls are
+beautifully ornamented, in harmony with an architectural design, which
+is considered by critics, as exceedingly artistic. Inside, they have
+been constructed, finished, fitted and furnished, in accordance with a
+design, that will afford to the villagers, the highest order of
+education and amusement.
+
+The theatre is two hundred feet long, and seventy-five feet wide. The
+schools, are each one hundred and seventy-five feet in length, by forty
+feet in width. They are separated from the theatre, by twenty feet of
+space. A roomy covered way from the rear, connects them with that
+building. In construction, care has been taken, to secure perfect light
+and ventilation.
+
+The school on the left, is for pupils who enter the primary, and the
+first, second and third, intermediate classes. The one on the right, is
+for students, who may be promoted to the first, second and third, high
+schools. The seating capacity of each one, is ample for three hundred
+children. The decorations of the walls and ceilings are, to a remarkable
+degree, both educative and ornamental. The equipment of school
+furniture, such as seats, desks, dictionaries, text books, globes and
+outline maps; drawing-boards, blackboards and laboratory outfit; glass
+cases, for collections of geological specimens and minerals; life size,
+physiology models and charts; together, with a complete series of charts
+for the other sciences; is the best that could be designed or procured.
+
+The theatre, is a very important part of the educative system.
+Fortunately, the acoustic properties, are remarkably fine! The entire
+interior, including the high ceiling, is decorated with such boldly
+beautiful designs, that they never fail to gratify the artistic sense of
+the beholder. At night, the charming effect of these embellishments, is
+intensified, by the use of a great number of brilliantly colored
+electric lights; which are skillfully grouped and interwoven, as a part
+of the general decorative plan. The wide seats, are designed for ease
+and comfort. They are richly and durably upholstered, with dark-brown,
+polished leather. The seating capacity of this cosey little theatre, is
+twenty-five hundred.
+
+The colonists have found this histrionic temple, very useful. It is an
+ideal place for farm and village festivals; and for all kinds of
+entertainments; such as orations, school exhibitions, graduation
+exercises, vocal and instrumental concerts and dramas; lectures, operas
+and every class of theatricals. It is also, equally useful and fitting,
+for stereopticon and biograph exhibits, of the astronomy, geology,
+botany, natural history, microscopical, and photographic clubs.
+
+The large, well equipped stage and dressing rooms, offer a permanent,
+desirable home, for the musical, choral and dramatic clubs. At intervals
+of three months, four weeks in each year; excellent professional troups
+occupy the stage; presenting a fine variety, of wholesome dramas and
+operas. In this way, the stage of this farm theatre, is made to
+represent and reflect, the passing progress of the dramatic and operatic
+world. During the intervals between these star-company weeks, the
+home-talent club, presents regular, tri-weekly performances, under the
+supervision of a skillful director. The remaining nights are as a rule,
+pretty well utilized by the numerous local entertainments, before
+mentioned.
+
+This brief sketch of the generous provision, made for the education and
+amusement of the people of Solaris, will, in connection with the nursery
+and kindergarten, hereafter to be described, show what the co-operative
+farm can do, when it undertakes to give to its people a class of
+educational training and amusement, which in many respects, is superior
+to the best that money can buy for the wealthy. It will also
+demonstrate, what can be accomplished, when the farm determines to
+produce, and to fittingly educate and train, a superior class of
+children, as the most important part of the legitimate work of a
+co-operative farm. The highest expression of agriculture! The culture of
+children as a fine art! The production of such children, as will make
+ideal citizens for a perfect Republic!
+
+The practical class in farm chemistry, only twelve in number, is an
+organization made up by a careful selection from the brightest minds and
+best thinkers in the colony. Under the leadership of Fillmore Flagg, it
+has accomplished some excellent experimental work. It has been able to
+add several valuable allied industries to the resources of the farm, in
+addition to those already described.
+
+In breaking ground for opening the new mica and zinc mines, a great
+quantity of peculiar clay was discovered. This clay was of a very fine
+quality, entirely free from sand, gravel or other impurities. Yet,
+strangely enough, it would not make good china, porcelain, or pottery!
+There was a greasy smoothness of feeling possessed by this clay, which
+suggested its name, tallow clay. After considerable exposure to the air,
+it would crack and slack until finally dissolved into a fine powder. The
+class was puzzled. The members were on their mettle! The more they
+worked with this curious clay and failed, the more they became
+interested and determined to persevere, until some discovery should
+reward them. The greasy quality of the clay, suggested soap-stone. Now,
+the class members had long wished for some material out of which they
+could manufacture a first-class quality of artificial soap-stone. This
+tallow clay promised good results, if they could only eliminate the few
+constituents, which were not present in the real soap-stone. The weeks
+of careful research spent in this eliminating process, finally crowned
+the efforts of the class with a complete success. The result, was an
+artificial soap-stone of excellent quality. Even, when molded in thin
+plates, it would withstand exposure to intense heat for long periods of
+time, without warping or shrinking. It soon became evident, that it
+could be made more useful and more valuable, than real soap-stone.
+
+After some weeks of experimental work, in various processes of
+manufacture, the right method was reached. Fillmore Flagg was convinced,
+that thousands of tons of this product, yielding a large profit, could
+be placed on the market much cheaper than the best quality of fire
+brick. For a great number of uses in the industrial arts, and for
+chemical furnaces, ore-roasting ovens, furnace linings, stove linings
+and even stoves, it would prove immeasurably superior. The popular
+demand for this new soap-stone, soon sustained the judgment of Fillmore
+Flagg. This demand continued to increase until the new industry, became
+one of the most profitable on the farm.
+
+After the first success, the class in farm chemistry, in search of
+another prize, returned with renewed vigor, to attack the tallow clay.
+In working over the formidable heap of tailings, which had accumulated
+from the soap-stone experiments, the second prize was quickly found. It
+proved even more important than the first! This mass of rejected clay
+was found to be exceedingly rich in aluminum. Better still! It was just
+in the proper condition, to be most cheaply and easily extracted! It was
+a great find! The class members were crowned with laurels! Of course,
+they were jubilant. But they were not puffed up with pride! That, was
+not their style!
+
+During the fifth year of the reign of the co-operative farm at Solaris,
+the following mining industries, were added to its resources. Valuable
+mines of mica, lead and zinc, were opened and successfully worked.
+Electric car lines, connected these mines with the freight depot at
+Solaris Station. There, the lead and zinc, high grade ores, found a
+ready market at good prices. The mica was prepared for use at Solaris.
+It was then sold at a fine profit, in connection with orders for
+soap-stone.
+
+For two years, the canning factory, had furnished another avenue for
+profitably marketing large crops of sweet-corn, green peas, asparagus,
+tomatoes, peaches, and many kinds of perishable fruits and berries.
+
+The demand for Solaris Vegetable Concentrates, and for Solaris Mixture
+Concentrates, has more than doubled. The same is true of the Solaris
+breakfast foods, and of the material for delicious breakfast dishes,
+prepared from mixtures of parched, sweet, and pop-corn.
+
+The vineyards and the quince, peach, plum and cherry orchards, have
+reached the stage of full bearing. Improved methods, careful culture and
+the constant use of better chemical agents, for the destruction of
+insect enemies, have made the heavy crops of fruits from these vineyards
+and orchards, even more desirable and more salable than ever before. The
+farm income from grapes and quinces alone amounting to over one hundred
+thousand dollars per annum.
+
+The quantity of jellies, jams, preserves and marmalades, made from small
+fruits, has more than doubled. The excellence of quality, and
+established reputation for absolute purity, has rapidly increased the
+demand for them at fancy prices.
+
+Altogether, the rapid and continuous growth of the farm income, from its
+allied agricultural and manufacturing industries, has largely increased
+the wages of the co-operators. The purchases at the store have been
+correspondingly augmented. The sale of goods by the store, to
+surrounding communities, has been greatly extended. The result has been
+a constantly increasing volume of the seven and one-half per cent
+profits, steadily pouring into the insurance fund. Both the general
+service fund and the fund for purposes of education and amusement, have
+been equally benefited. Fifty thousand dollars, have been added to the
+stock of goods, in the store. The store building, has been enlarged and
+improved. A large hotel for the accommodation of the constantly
+increasing number of visitors, has been erected and equipped. At all
+times, plenty of money has been at hand, with which to push forward all
+necessary farm or village improvements. The fame of such general
+prosperity, has gone abroad, in the land; placing the financial standing
+of the Solaris Farm Company, on a firm basis with the commercial world.
+
+Five years of co-operative work, have convinced the people of Solaris,
+that successful agriculture, demands the determined effort, the best
+thought, the scientific work and the combined energy of a well organized
+force of earnest, unselfish, steadfast workers. They are very
+enthusiastic over the wonderful results achieved. Freed from the
+shackles and sins of a selfish life, they bear the unmistakable stamp of
+progress, socially, industrially, intellectually and ethically. Having
+cast aside the burden of care and worry about the future, both for
+themselves and their children, they have had a chance to grow and expand
+in the real sunshine of life. They have become dignified, self-poised,
+well dressed, educated, refined, cultured and polished men and women.
+Good citizens, of which, any commonwealth might well be proud! Vitally,
+and vastly more important! They have become dominant thinkers, who are
+capable of wisely and unselfishly, thinking and planning for the benefit
+of the Republic!
+
+In the remarkable success achieved by Solaris Farm, our hero, Fillmore
+Flagg, has realized his highest ambition, his brightest hopes. Relieved
+from further responsibility, as general manager, by the last annual
+election of the Solaris Farm Company, he has had an opportunity to turn
+his attention to organizing companies, for the eight remaining farm
+sites. In this work, he has had valuable assistance from the officers
+and members of the company. With a view of making Solaris the present
+headquarters of the general movement; acting on advice of Fillmore
+Flagg, the Solaris Farm Company, has amended its charter, to increase
+the membership of the company to one thousand; doubling the capital
+stock. Five thousand acres of adjoining lands have been secured, the
+farmers from whom they were purchased, coming into the company as
+stock-holders. This course seemed necessary and wise, in order to
+properly balance the growing industrial and commercial importance of
+Solaris. With such a large increase in the number of co-operators, a
+surplus of capable young men and women, would be available, from which
+to select volunteers, as the nucleus of a corps of experienced officers
+for the newly organized farm companies. In this way, Solaris, as the
+parent farm, would become very important as the training school, for
+teachers that were to supply the wants of such new farms as might grow
+out of the general movement.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+THE KINDERGARTEN AT SOLARIS.
+
+
+Among the important buildings at Solaris, we must consider the large,
+well appointed nursery, kindergarten and mothers' club combined. The
+mothers' club occupying a handsome wing to the main building. Located
+just in the rear of the long row of palace homes, and connected with
+them by a long, wide, many-windowed hall, it has proved admirably
+adapted to the purpose for which it was built. This beautiful structure,
+is environed by a lovely lawn, charmingly variegated with flowers and
+shrubbery. It is surrounded on three sides, by a wide, low veranda, only
+one step above the lawn. This veranda, except where a broad step
+connects it with the lawn, is shut in by a tall balustrade. By this
+means unguarded children are prevented from falling. A broad,
+overhanging roof, of picturesque design, covers the entire building.
+From the interior, many windows coming down to the floor, open on to the
+veranda.
+
+The entire floor space, the full size of the main building, sixty by two
+hundred feet, is unobstructed by a partition. That portion devoted to
+the nursery, is only separated from the kindergarten by a low
+balustrade. A large skylight, in the central roof, floods this
+extraordinary room with an abundance of light. Screens of thin, white,
+silky cloth are so arranged, that this light may be regulated and
+softened to any desired extent. The lofty ceiling is arched, groined and
+decorated, very like a cathedral. The high walls are modestly tinted a
+pale green. A broad, beautifully designed, exquisitely colored border,
+in perfect harmony with the splendor of the ceiling, runs uniformly
+around the upper walls of this delightful room, adding immensely to the
+general artistic effect.
+
+One peculiarity in connection with the floor, marks a wide departure
+from the ordinary arrangements of a nursery or kindergarten school. Six
+feet distant from the washboard, a depressed railway track, equipped
+with long platform cars, ten feet in width, having their surfaces just
+level with the main floor, describes a circuit of the room. Except at
+the places of entrance or exit, this circular train or section of floor
+on wheels, is guarded on either side by a low railing. These railings
+also extend across the cars, far enough from the ends to allow a four
+foot passage between each one. In material and finish, the floor of the
+train is uniform with that of the room. The railings are all of polished
+oak. Two cute little gates on each car open to the passage way at the
+ends.
+
+The machinery which propels this exaggerated perambulator, is run by
+electric power. It is so adjusted, as to be perfectly under the control
+of the nurses and teachers in charge of the room. The iron frames from
+which fifty swinging cribs are hung, occupy considerable space on
+several cars. These cribs are for the exclusive use of infants, too
+young or too weak to sit up. The remaining space on the cars of this
+infantile merry-go-round, which the mothers' club members have named the
+Cargosita, is furnished with a remarkable variety of single and double
+seats, made low enough to be comfortable for children from eight to
+thirty months old. These seats are as artistic as they are unique! They
+represent on a small scale, ostriches, swans, geese, dogs, goats,
+horses, mules, zebras, camels, elephants, tigers, and lions; wagons,
+phaetons, cycles, cars and a great variety of pleasure boats. The
+seating capacity of the cargosita is about three hundred, the number of
+children in the nursery and kindergarten, who are under four years of
+age. Older children become inmates of the regular schools.
+
+The cargosita, when ornamented with a profusion of silk flags,
+resplendent with gaily colored ribbon streamers, handsome mats and a
+choice collection of small potted plants, palms and flowers; becomes a
+thing of beauty, well calculated to capture and fascinate the childish
+heart. When the train is in motion, gaily spinning around this
+five-hundred-foot oval; the cribs and seats filled with bright happy
+children, smiling and crowing, their chubby little hands clapping in
+unison with the measure of such exquisite music as is discoursed by a
+giant orchestrion, or the electric piano, the vision becomes the
+loveliest and most inspiring one of a life time!
+
+When we consider the cargosita as an instrument for education, we find
+that it is even more potent as such, than as a thing for amusement. For
+the purpose of educating the senses, thus laying a sure foundation, for
+a broad, healthy, harmonious, development of the mind, it is invaluable!
+
+A child is the repository of infinite possibilities! Education, is the
+process of unfolding these possibilities, in harmony with natural law.
+To discover, and to apply this law, is the important work of the
+educator!
+
+To Prof. Elmer Gates, and to his remarkable discoveries in Psychology
+and Psychurgy, the modern educator owes a heavy debt of gratitude! From
+the teachings of Prof. Gates, we deduce; that in brain building, that
+primary step in education, psychologic functioning creates organic
+structure, and that organic structure is a manifestation in the
+concrete, of the activities of the mind. In other words, that planted,
+watered and nourished, by the emotions of the individual, the thoughts,
+ideas, concepts and images which arise, create a corresponding growth of
+cell structure in the brain. That these brain cells become the working
+tools of the mind.
+
+It follows then, that we cannot have thoughts, without first having
+sensations to form images and concepts, the soil out of which all
+thoughts naturally grow. Therefore, if in a practical way, all
+possibilities in the way of sensations, which may come through the
+avenue of each one of the child's senses, are fully developed; a sure
+foundation has been laid, for the largest possible development of brain
+and the corresponding growth of thought.
+
+In the natural order of the growth of thought, nature prescribes the
+following sequence: A union of sensations, produces images; a grouping
+of images, produces concepts; a relationing of concepts, produces ideas;
+a generalizing of ideas, produces thoughts of the first order; a
+generalization of thoughts of the first order, produces thoughts of the
+second order: a still wider generalization of thoughts of the second
+order, produces thoughts of the third order; progressing in like manner,
+to the highest ladder of the mental scale.
+
+In considering this order, we observe that sensations, form the base of
+the educational pyramid. All knowledge which comes to the ego, the seat
+of consciousness, must come through sensations produced by contact with
+material things in the domain of nature. Hence, as a primary step in
+educational work, a careful training of the senses, becomes a matter of
+the greatest importance. This training cannot be commenced, without
+first ascertaining what these senses are, and the natural order of their
+evolution.
+
+Commencing with the lowest, we have muscle feelings, or the sense of
+musculation; the sense of touch, the sense of pressure, the sense of
+warmth, the sense of cold, the sense of smell, the sense of taste, the
+sense of hearing and the sense of seeing. Altogether, we have nine
+important avenues, through which the inner man may gain a correct
+knowledge of the outer world.
+
+Professor Gates has discovered a system of sense training, which may be
+successfully applied to kindergarten children. In application, only a
+few minutes daily practice by each child, is required. By this training,
+in extending the upper and lower thresholds of sensation, the capacity
+of each sense, may be doubled from five to eight times. To the
+inexperienced, this proposition is so stupendous, that it seems almost
+unthinkable! However, we may state parenthetically, that an application
+of this system, to children in the Solaris kindergarten, has shown such
+marvelous results, that its efficacy and excellence have been well
+established. It has proved fully equal to the demands of twentieth
+century progress!
+
+Turning again to the teachings of Prof. Gates, we learn that mind is the
+key-stone and the arch of life, the all-containing attribute, which
+combines all forms of its expression: that to properly cultivate the
+mind, is to extend the scope and usefulness of life. Hence, that in
+choosing a system of education, which will be in harmony with planetary
+evolution, therefore, the easiest and most natural. We must never lose
+sight of one great, central, primal fact. It is this. The mind of the
+child, which is to be unfolded, is the production of the cosmic
+universe; therefore, cannot be in fundamental antagonism with it. It
+follows, then, that if children gather their sensations, images,
+concepts, ideas, and thoughts, directly from the phenomena of that
+universe, they will acquire a kind of knowledge, so real, so superior,
+that it will stand the test of an eternity. It is actual knowledge!
+There is no theory, no speculation, no guesswork about it!
+
+The sciences, are facts regarding the phenomena of the universe,
+classified and arranged in an orderly manner. All facts of every kind,
+naturally fall into the domain of some one of the sciences.
+
+Man, as the highest expression of the planet, in his three-fold nature,
+becomes the gleaner, the classifier, and the repository of these facts.
+A beautiful exposition of the clever handiwork, of the law of action and
+re-action. As a cosmic unit of the larger cosmos, the more perfect his
+knowledge of the universe, the more complete, is his store of knowledge
+in relation to himself.
+
+Children, in order to become properly equipped students, must, when
+ready to take up the sciences, be prepared to determine what the actual
+sensations are, out of which the different possible images of the
+sciences are composed. To achieve the most thorough education possible,
+they must know the actual number of concepts in each science, and
+precisely the images out of which they have arisen! They will then be
+prepared, to collect and classify, the mentative data of the sciences.
+That is, they will be able to determine for themselves, experimentally,
+the sensations, images, concepts, ideas and thoughts, which belong to
+each one.
+
+Practice in this useful training, will lead the pupil, to the higher,
+wider generalizations of thought, which belong to the domain of pure
+reason. In the work of classification, by detecting differences, a
+knowledge of the inductive process is gained. Similarly, by detecting
+likenesses, a knowledge of deductive reasoning is acquired.
+
+The body, like the brain, being composed of a co-operative colony of
+more or less intelligent cells, is an important part of the mind, which
+responds to educational training. True education, then is a development
+of both mind and body, in accord with the law of natural evolution, that
+embraces all there is in the domain of morals, pertaining to right
+thinking, right living and right doing. In other words, the action of
+the mind comprehends the physical, intellectual, moral and spiritual
+expression of the individual. Therefore, by the rightly conducted
+processes of a higher education, we may form an evenly developed
+character of the highest order. A character, unfolded physically,
+intellectually and spiritually, in harmony with the requirements of
+cosmic law. Hence, the imperative necessity, in the early training of
+children, of introducing the first steps of this system of true
+education.
+
+From these premises we must conclude, that the first four years of a
+child's life, should be devoted to some systematic method, for acquiring
+a most complete equipment of exact images, which will afford the basis
+for typical sensations, emotions, ideas and thoughts, regarding things
+in the domain of nature, about which, later in life, the child must
+know in order to become educated. To this end, children must have
+opportunities during these important years of image building, to
+experience all the sensations, and to form all the true images, that can
+come to them through the senses of seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling,
+touching, feeling and sensations of temperature, such as heat and cold.
+
+It is of the utmost importance, that these early images, which are to
+become the standard of the mind, in all judgments of future years;
+should be made as complete and as perfect as possible.
+
+A child is primarily and instinctively imitative. From the first dawn of
+intelligence, children strive to emulate the acts of their brighter,
+older and better-taught associates. Hence, the necessity for a nursery
+and kindergarten training, such as the one instituted at Solaris.
+Practical work, in this novel and magnificently equipped institution,
+has proved conclusively, that, even in early infancy, associated
+together in happy groups, children acquire intellectual, moral and
+physical training, much more easily and swiftly, than is possible under
+any other circumstances. This affords another demonstration, of the
+efficacy of co-operative group work, in the primary steps of education.
+
+The cargosita, is well calculated to offer children the most perfect
+conditions, for accumulating a well selected store of sensations and
+images, through the avenues of the different senses. A teacher or nurse,
+usually some member of the mothers' club, is seated on each car as the
+center of its group. It becomes her pleasure, to direct attention to the
+various objects. Let us follow the cargosita with its precious freight,
+as it slowly moves around the oval.
+
+Images produced by the sense of seeing, are first in order. Large
+sheets of thick, heavy paper mounted on cloth, seven in number,
+displaying the different colors of the rainbow, are hung at uniform
+intervals around the room. They can be raised or lowered, to reach an
+easy angle of vision from the cars. After each primary color, appear
+half-width sheets of the same height, displaying the various hues, tints
+and shades of that particular color. Printed across each sheet in large
+white letters, is the name of the color, hue, tint or shade. Altogether,
+this color scheme forms a combination of great length, of such
+remarkable variety, that it becomes for the little ones, a well nigh
+inexhaustable source of fascinating amusement.
+
+Red, with its various hues, tints and shades, is the first color to be
+exhibited. Three days later, another color series is substituted. This
+course is continued until the entire series is finished. The children
+have experienced in a regular sequence, the sensations and images,
+produced by the entire scale of color. These mental pictures have been
+repeated so often, in connection with the muscular sense of exhilarating
+motion, that they have become permanently enregistered in brain-cell
+formation. A review every few months, serves to fix these images more
+firmly in the brain.
+
+This primary course of educative work is continued, by taking up
+consecutively, in regular order; on a separate series of sheets, life
+size, naturally colored photographs, of fishes, reptiles, insects,
+birds, animals, and people. Later, geological specimens, glass, rocks
+and minerals. To be followed by pictures of life in the vegetable
+kingdom, flowers, fruits, plants and trees. Again, with photographs of
+works of art, paintings and statuary.
+
+Interspersed with this general course, are short lessons, offered to
+produce true images, in the hearing, smelling and tasting areas of the
+brain.
+
+First, by repeating at different times, while the cargosita is in
+motion, with its cargo of infantile passengers, all of the best musical
+compositions, executed vocally, and on the electric piano, the giant
+orchestrion, the violin, and a great variety of other musical
+instruments. These lessons in hearing, are repeated and varied, until
+the children have become familiar with most of the sounds in the tone
+scale. The mental sound images produced, have been associated with the
+happy scenes of this merry kindergarten life. By this interweaving of
+pleasant sensations, they have become more firmly fixed in a healthy
+group of brain cells, thus planted and established in the hearing areas
+of the brain.
+
+Second: In a similar manner, the taste sensations and images, are
+produced and registered. Day after day, one by one, tiny packages of
+confections, beautifully wrapped in brilliantly colored papers, are
+given to the children while on their cargosita excursions. These
+interesting lessons are continued, until the entire range of savors has
+been exhausted. The curiosity, excitement, pleasure and eagerness
+exhibited by children, in these tasting investigations, is something
+surprising.
+
+Third: Flowers, beautiful flowers of all kinds, are largely used in
+producing sensations and images, to be registered in the brain areas of
+the sense of smell. The essence of odors which cannot be gotten from
+flowers, are used to saturate small sachet bags, of charming color and
+artistic design. These bags make attractive play-things for the
+children. While using them they soon, unconsciously, become very
+skillful in detecting the slightest differences between the various
+odors. Brain areas usually left barren, are now filled and developed.
+
+Later in life, when children come to study the different sciences, this
+ability to detect the presence of the slightest odor, becomes
+invaluable, in the difficult work of classification. With such an
+unusual equipment, they will be far in advance of those pupils, who have
+not wisely, left uncultivated this important sense of smelling.
+
+In connection with the regular course of exercises, prescribed for
+third- and fourth-year children, there is introduced in the play and work
+rooms of the kindergarten, a special training, designed to develop the
+various sensations of heat and cold: changes in temperature, from one
+extreme to the other: sensitiveness to touch: to recognize any degree of
+pressure, from zero to the violence of pain: ability to detect size,
+length, breadth, and thickness: degrees of smoothness, elasticity, and
+hardness: all through the senses of touch, pressure, and muscular
+feeling.
+
+Interesting plays are invented for the children, into which, these
+exercises are skillfully introduced. These plays, have a peculiar
+fascination. They excite an intense interest, which seems to always
+attract and hold the child's attention, until there is enregistered, in
+regular sequence, in the touch areas of the brain, all the sensations
+and images, which can be produced by many weeks of training, in this
+systematic course.
+
+The training of the senses, is also carried forward through the medium
+of such plays as are calculated to bring out the child's capacity to
+distinguish the least noticeable difference, in pitches of color,
+degrees of light, pitches of sound, with its degrees of volume and
+loudness; together, with ability to discover the least noticeable
+difference, in resistance to pressure, or the slightest increase or
+decrease of rythmical motion, etc. The lines of least noticeable
+difference, in the capacity of the various senses, having been well
+established, the training commences along those lines. Very soon, in the
+brain areas of the senses under training, there comes an increased cell
+growth, which gives added sharpness and capacity. The line of least
+noticeable difference, is moved one step nearer the limit. This process
+is continued with each sense separately, until the limit for all has
+been reached. As a general result of this training, we find that the
+child has acquired an extraordinary reinforcement of brain power and
+intellectual acuteness.
+
+Regular kindergarten work, for children at Solaris, between two and four
+years of age; is again reinforced, by adding to the list of exercises, a
+large number of plays, which introduce the variously colored, lettered
+blocks, so successfully used in Fern Fenwick's early training, during
+her seven years of Alaska life.
+
+The collection of blocks, is a very large one. It is calculated to
+furnish a series of new combinations, which cannot be exhausted, in the
+plays of one whole year. These blocks are made and colored with the
+greatest care. The groups or families, are distinguished, by size, shape
+and color. The Alphabet blocks, are large cubes, painted white, with the
+letter showing in black on every side. All other blocks, have a uniform
+thickness of one-half inch. They are as large as can be fashioned from
+blocks two inches square. The names appear in white letters, on all
+alike.
+
+The astronomy blocks are star shaped, painted blue. The geology blocks
+are diamond shaped, painted brown. The chemistry blocks are hexagonal in
+shape, painted red. The geography blocks are globular in shape, painted
+gray. The blocks representing physics, are octagon shaped, painted
+yellow. The botany blocks are oblong, painted green. The physiology
+blocks are triangular in shape, painted pink. The history blocks are
+square, painted black. A large number of the key-words of the sciences,
+are painted on blocks, which, in size, shape and color, are counterparts
+of those that represent the heads of families to which they belong.
+
+This scheme of blocks, furnishes the ground work for the construction of
+a great number of games, for the amusement and edification of the
+children. Games of word-building, such as spelling out the names of
+fishes, insects, reptiles, birds and animals. Also of building the names
+of familiar things, houses, stables, light-houses, factories and mills;
+rivers, ponds, lakes, mountains, trees and fields; hats, shoes, coats,
+cloaks and other articles of clothing; common household utensils in
+every day use, such as pots, kettles, pans, pails, cups, knives, forks
+and spoons; stove, shovel, tongs, mop and broom; toys, dolls, balls,
+kites, tops, etc.
+
+By the use of many such ingenious games, the children unconsciously
+become familiar with the names of the sciences, and with all the
+principal words, which belong to each one. For example: Names of
+heavenly bodies in the domain of astronomy. The sun, the moon, the milky
+way, the planets, the constellations, the polar star, and the names of
+twenty stars of the greatest magnitude: In the domain of geology,
+fossils, shells, minerals, rocks, shales, clays, gravels, and the names
+of geological periods: In the domain of chemistry, the names of acids,
+gases, metals, crucibles, retorts, mortars, and the names of a great
+variety of chemical combinations: In the domain of geography, globes,
+hemispheres, continents, islands, oceans, gulfs, bays, and straits;
+equator, tropics, circles, longitude, latitude, etc. These examples,
+will furnish an approximate idea of the wide scope in scientific names,
+covered by these key-words, when applied to all of the sciences.
+
+In such plays of science grouping, the interest and pleasure of the
+children is intensified, by applying a system of personification, to the
+families of the different sciences: For instance, Mr. Astronomy Blue;
+Mrs. Geology Brown; Mr. Chemistry Red; Mrs. Geography Gray, etc.
+
+In the greatest and most useful of all games, the game of
+classification: Groups of children, spend hours with their teachers or
+directors, in separating and classifying, heaps of miscellaneous blocks,
+bearing the names of the sciences and the key-words belonging thereto.
+They are silent, absorbed, contented, thoroughly interested and happy.
+So intense is the interest displayed, that after the fourth or fifth
+game, every child can correctly classify the blocks, by quickly placing
+them in the groups to which they belong. They rapidly learn to call the
+name at sight, which is printed on any block they may happen to pick up.
+Those who have not learned to read by playing word-building games with
+the alphabet blocks, only need to have an unfamiliar name, repeated to
+them three or four times by the director, and it is fixed. Size, shape
+and color of block, with length of name and shape of its letters, soon
+serves to make the little ones, perfect masters of the most difficult
+names.
+
+These children have learned the value of time. They have learned to
+appreciate the joyousness of useful amusement. They have no desire to
+clog their minds, with the untruthful trash of fairy tales and Mother
+Goose stories, which played such an important part in nineteenth century
+methods. They no longer need such silly things, as a source of
+amusement. They seem to realize, that they only have mind-room, for the
+truthful, the useful and the practical.
+
+The value and significance of figures, is taught by the game of forming
+the pyramid. On badges of broad, blue ribbon, are printed large gold
+figures, from one to ten. Inside the oval, in the center of the large
+room, ten rows of seats are arranged: with one seat in the first, and
+ten in the last row. That is, one seat is added to each succeeding row.
+
+At the commencement of the game, when number one is called by the
+director, the little boy or girl, who is decorated with the badge
+bearing that number, takes the first seat, which forms the apex of the
+pyramid. The two children who wear number two badges; when called take
+seats in the second row. Observing this order, the calling is continued
+until the seats are filled, and the pyramid of fifty-five children is
+complete.
+
+The director, having taken a position a short distance in front of the
+apex of the pyramid, proceeds to call the children to their feet.
+Calling by number, commencing with the tens, the rows rise in
+succession, from the base to the apex. Each row is called upon to
+perform some part of a short series of graceful gymnastics. Then, the
+whole group in unison. Later, these exercises are made more
+interesting, by giving each child a small silk flag. In this part of the
+game, the children are at their best. The picture they make, is just
+lovely!
+
+In the closing part of the game, the children are seated and the
+mathematical exercises are introduced. The director says: "Each child
+has one nose. How many noses, have the number tens? Again, each child
+has one body. How many bodies, have the number nines? Each child has two
+eyes. How many eyes, have the number eights? Each child has two ears.
+How many ears, have the number sevens? Each child has one mouth. How
+many mouths, have the number sixes? Each child has two arms. How many
+arms, have the number fives? Each child has two hands. How many hands,
+have the number fours? Each child has two legs. How many legs, have the
+number threes? Each child has two feet. How many feet, have the number
+twos? Each child has ten fingers and ten toes. How many fingers and
+toes, has number one?" These questions are varied and repeated, day
+after day, until every child in the pyramid, can answer any one of the
+questions, correctly and promptly. To be chosen as a member of this
+game, is a coveted honor, it is conferred as a reward for good conduct.
+Consequently, the pride and pleasure exhibited by these decorated and
+selected children, is commensurate with the importance of this very
+primitive class in mathematics and physiology.
+
+This very brief outline, of the plays, exercises and studies, which form
+the nursery and kindergarten course, for children at Solaris, who are
+under four years of age, will serve to show how much important
+knowledge, a child can accumulate during those fruitful image-bearing
+years, while pleasantly and zealously engaged, day after day, in a
+series of wisely directed games.
+
+In playing these games, the children have become interested in, and have
+learned a very large number of useful words. These words in the mind of
+the child, are as familiar and as easily remembered, as are the names of
+favorite toys, such as balls, bats, kites and dolls. This wide
+vocabulary of key-words which has become the mental property of the
+child, has planted in the mind the necessary images, which in future
+years of study, will serve as a sure foundation, for the quick and easy
+mastery of all branches of useful knowledge. Many a man of the world has
+gone through life, without acquiring such a vocabulary.
+
+Considering this primary course of study from another point of view, we
+have an illustration of the value of a method for cultivating the
+faculty of memory, which differs widely from any thing known to ordinary
+systems of education. From this illustration, we perceive that the
+perfectness and permanency of memory, is dependent on the foundations
+which have been laid for it, by the quantity and quality of sensations
+and images, regarding the things to be remembered, which have been
+registered or planted in brain-cell formation. These living images,
+fixed on the sensitive plate of the brain by the law of vibration, in a
+manner somewhat analogous to etching on the cylinders of a phonograph,
+are capable of being reproduced by the will-force of the individual.
+From these premises, we have gained a new definition for the word
+memory. It is a process of refunctioning or reregistering, any
+sensation, image, concept, idea, or thought, which at any time has
+become a part of the growth of the brain.
+
+In the child's mind, memories regarding objects or words which have
+become familiar, are as a rule, closely connected with memories of keen
+enjoyment, resulting from participation in some childish sport. These
+memories are many times repeated. A few small groups of brain cells have
+become dominant in growth, because they have received the full force of
+the entire stimulating power of the brain. Hence, the memories of
+childhood, are much more enduring than those of after life. Hence, it
+becomes a matter of the utmost importance, that these early images,
+should be connected with the greatest possible number of natural
+objects, their names, and the key-words of the sciences, which are used
+to describe them.
+
+In these restless years for the little ones, it becomes a matter of
+great moment, to keep their minds busily employed, at what appeals to
+their self-consciousness, as some useful work. In this respect, the
+popular science games, gratify and completely satisfy the pride and
+dignity of these embryo men and women. The mind is naturally unfolded.
+The brain areas, are all evenly and harmoniously developed. The
+children, when so usefully employed, are kept amiable. They do not
+become nervous, irritable, cross, or vicious. They are taught, as soon
+as they can walk and talk, that the self-respect and innate dignity,
+which belongs to them as little men and little women, demands that they
+should always treat each other lovingly, politely, kindly, unselfishly.
+It is continually urged upon them, that they must learn to obey the
+nurse or teacher, without delay, without a murmur; that they must not
+cry or be fretful; that in these things, they must always strive to
+imitate the good acts of older comrades or playmates. In this way, the
+moral unfoldment and education of the child, keeps pace with the
+intellectual and the physical. Altogether, the effect is most excellent!
+Thousands of children have gone to ruin, for the want of just such
+training, in the first four years of life!
+
+The planning and final organization, of this novel scheme for nursery
+and kindergarten training, has been the joint work of Fern Fenwick,
+Fillmore Flagg, Gertrude and George Gerrish. In striving for the best
+results, this quartet of co-operative educators, have been ambitious to
+perfect a system, which would satisfy the demand for a natural,
+harmonious unfoldment of the well-born babies, which were to represent
+the highest product of Solaris Farm.
+
+The success which has attended the practical operation of the scheme,
+has made them very happy. Towards this success, Fern Fenwick has been
+able to contribute largely, on account of her early Alaska training, and
+her thorough knowledge of the improved methods, growing out of the
+important discoveries made by Prof. Gates.
+
+In applying the system to the class work of the regular schools, the
+long experience, trained skill and natural aptitude as teachers, of
+George and Gertrude Gerrish, has proved wonderfully effective.
+
+By supplementing the system, with a very complete course of manual
+training in the use of tools, and in acquiring a competent knowledge of
+the industrial arts, Fillmore Flagg has been equally successful, in
+educating the muscular children, and in arming them most effectively,
+both mentally and physically, for the practical work of life.
+
+Altogether, the complete course, results in an all-round development of
+brain power, more than five times greater than that offered by any other
+system. A result, which marks the beginning of a new educational era. A
+result, which promises to give to the world, a dominant race of
+thinkers, whose ability to bless mankind, is to be so great, that it
+cannot now be estimated.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX.
+
+AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR.
+
+
+In the month of August, 1911, six years after our first introduction to
+him, we find our hero, Fillmore Flagg, seated in his private office at
+Solaris. This office was located in a building on the public square,
+near the store, which has been especially designed and constructed, for
+use as the central office for the general co-operative, farm movement.
+Here, Fillmore Flagg, has been busily engaged for more than two months,
+in planning the preliminary work for eight new farms. For the moment, he
+seems absorbed in a dreamy reverie. From this, he was sharply aroused by
+the entrance of a messenger, who announced a visitor. The visitor proved
+to be none other, than our old acquaintance, George Gaylord. The
+greetings, exchanged between these re-united college chums, were cordial
+indeed! In the conversations which are to follow, the reader will find a
+continuation of the story of Solaris Farm.
+
+"Shades of venus! How well you are looking, Fillmore! I need not ask
+how you have fared since last we met! One look at your face, tells the
+whole story! The goddess of good fortune, must have smiled on you right
+royally! I congratulate you most heartily! The fame of your exploits
+here at Solaris, has reached New England! What a lovely village you have
+made! And the farm too, is just delightful! To behold it, is well worth
+the price of a long journey! Of course, at some convenient time, you are
+to show me the farm, and tell me all about it."
+
+"Thank you George, for your congratulations; You have surmised
+correctly! I have been prospered, far beyond my most sanguine
+expectations! At the proper time, I shall take pleasure in relating the
+whole story for your benefit. Now, I am anxious to hear something
+regarding yourself. Tell me, my dear fellow! To what piece of good
+fortune, do I owe this unexpected visit? And, may I hope, that the
+goddess you just mentioned, has been equally gracious with her smiles
+for you!"
+
+"It is a long story, Fillmore, and I can assure you it is not a pleasant
+one. It seems a pity to mar your peace of mind by relating such a
+miserable tale of woe! During the past five years, the unkind fates have
+frowned upon me, and I have suffered much! In order to give you an
+intelligent reason for my visit to Solaris, I must tell you of some
+good, and many bitter things which have transpired, since we parted at
+the hotel on Mount Meenahga."
+
+"Really! George, I am sorry for your misfortunes! But surmising so much
+from your preparatory statement, I now wish to know all that you can
+consistently tell me. For the bitterness and suffering, you have my
+sympathy in advance."
+
+"Thank you Fillmore! I knew that I could rely on your sympathy and
+friendship, under all circumstances. Please pardon any lack of coherence
+or orderly arrangement of details, in what I am about to relate.
+
+"Late in the month of November, which followed our parting in the
+mountains, in accordance with previous arrangements, I took charge of
+the church in the New England city, where my uncle George resided. My
+relations with the members of the congregation, proved as pleasant as
+could be desired. I became acquainted with Martha Merritt, my uncle's
+niece by marriage. She was a beautiful girl! Very winning, sweet and
+amiable. I soon became fond of her company. This seemed to please both
+my uncle and my mother. I could see that they had set their hearts on a
+marriage between Martha and myself.
+
+"About the middle of the following January, acting on a suggestion from
+uncle George, I asked Martha for her hand in marriage. After taking a
+whole week for consideration, she finally consented and we were engaged.
+Some days later, I urged her to name an early day for our wedding. Very
+much to my surprise, she said 'You must not hurry me, George! You must
+give me time!' I hastened to assure her that I did not wish to be
+inconsiderate, and begged her to take another week, in which to fix the
+date. During this time, I saw very little of Martha. In the brief
+interviews that followed, she was pale and agitated. At the end of the
+week, again her old-time self, she came to me with the news that our
+wedding day had been fixed for the fifteenth of June, five months
+distant.
+
+"Early in February, the clouds of disaster began to gather. My mother
+was confined to her bed with what proved to be a serious illness. After
+four months of almost constant suffering, which she bore with the
+patience and fortitude of a martyr, she was borne across the dark water,
+to join that vast majority, that silent, mysterious, ever increasing
+host of the buried dead.
+
+"My mother was buried on the fifteenth of June. Overwhelmed with grief,
+I readily assented to Martha's suggestion, that our wedding should be
+postponed until the first of October. Recovering slowly from the shock
+of my bereavement, I turned eagerly to Martha, for loving consolation. I
+was horrified, to find that her affection for me had turned to
+ill-concealed aversion! There was a terror-stricken, haunted look in her
+eyes, as she strove in every possible way, to avoid being left alone
+with me even for a moment, which frightened and almost crushed me with
+grief. I knew that something dreadful, must have happened! She was so
+pitiful to behold, that I could not be angry or jealous! But, I resolved
+to know the truth. At the first opportunity, I demanded an explanation.
+Bursting into tears, she told me the story of her bitter experience.
+
+"Falling on her knees beside my chair, Martha implored me to be
+merciful. 'George,' she said, 'I know that I am the most wretched, and
+the most desperately wicked girl on the face of the earth! You have been
+so kind, and I have treated you so shamefully! How, can you ever forgive
+me? The only reparation that I can now make, is to tell you the whole
+truth, without reservation. Ten months before I saw you, while I was at
+school near Boston, I met Phillip Plato. The fates would have it, that
+we should fall desperately in love with each other, at our first
+meeting. In a short time we were engaged. In entering into this
+engagement, I did so without the knowledge of my uncle, or any friend. I
+did not stop for a moment, to consider my duty to uncle George, who had
+always been so good to me. I could think of no one but Phillip, and of
+my love for him. In the delirium of love's first dream, the weeks passed
+as days! Alas! The dream was passing brief! Somehow, Phillip's parents
+became aware of our engagement. They were very wealthy, and exceedingly
+ambitious to have Phillip marry more wealth. Angry with him, they came
+to me and cruelly declared, that they would never allow him to wed such
+a fortuneless girl! With look and gesture of scorn, they told me that
+they were just on the eve of going abroad, taking Phillip for two years
+of travel, in which they should strive to cure him completely of his
+insane infatuation. This, then was the end of my romance. My cruelly
+wounded pride, rose up in rebellion. I was furious! I returned scorn for
+scorn! I bade them begone!
+
+"'I returned to my uncle's home, my heart hot with the indignation of an
+outraged pride, and filled with a determination, to show to the world no
+sign, but to use all my strength of will, to cast Phillip out of my
+life; to utterly forget him and his selfish, greedy, heartless parents.
+When you came, George, I was more anxious than ever before, to please my
+uncle in every possible way. I foolishly imagined, that in encouraging
+your attentions as a lover, I was helping myself, to forget my love for
+Phillip. Oh! What a terrible, cruel mistake! How terrible, how cruel, I
+was soon to realize. You will remember, George, how strangely I behaved
+at that interview, in which you asked me to fix the day for our
+wedding. Let me explain. A few hours previous, while I was lost in one
+of my occasional fits of melancholy moping, the voice of Phillip came to
+my ears with startling distinctness. The voice said Martha, you must
+remain true to me! I love you as devotedly as ever! I am determined,
+never to give you up! I am coming home to wed you! I am surely coming!
+Wait for me! These words kept ringing in my ears, like the tolling of a
+funeral bell. They thrilled me through and through! The barriers of my
+pride gave way. The returning tide of my love for Phillip, swept in upon
+me with such force, that my heart almost ceased to beat! I was faint,
+deadly faint! When I recovered consciousness and afterwards, at our
+interview, I was absolutely wretched! Your request, added to my anguish.
+I was powerless to answer, I could only beg for more time. All through
+that dreadful week, I strove to convince myself that my ears had
+deceived me, that the voice was not real, only a phasma, a
+hallucination, born of my fits of melancholy. Unfortunately, I finally
+succeeded!
+
+"'Now, George, you shall hear the sequel, the climax of my wretchedness.
+The day before your mother died, I received a long letter from Phillip.
+It was written at Rome. Every line of that letter, was eloquent with
+Phillip's steadfast devotion, and love for me. In brief, a complete
+verification of what the warning voice had told me. His parents had
+relented. He was coming home to make me his bride. He had planned to
+arrive at Boston, in time to celebrate the New Year. He spoke of a long
+letter, which he had written to me, just on the eve of his going abroad.
+In that letter he had assured me of his undying love, of his
+determination never to give me up. In closing, he had begged me to wait
+for him, to remain true to him. He had repeated its contents, because he
+had been constantly haunted with the idea that the letter in question,
+had failed to reach me. And so it had.
+
+"'This, George, is the summing up of my misery! It has filled my heart
+with the anguish of despair! I can never love anyone but Phillip! I
+cannot marry you, George! I cannot! It would be an unpardonable sin
+against you, against my own soul! What shall I do? What can I do? What
+atonement can I ever make, for the shame, the humiliation, the
+suffering, which I have brought into your life?'
+
+"In this brief sketch, Fillmore, you have the substance of Martha's sad
+story. I believe it was absolutely true. I was deeply moved, by her
+abject misery and humiliation. A great wave of tender sympathy, swelled
+in my heart; blotting out all thoughts of self. I gave her back her
+engagement, and bade her go free; free to marry whomsoever her heart had
+chosen; assured of my forgiveness, and of my wish for her future
+happiness. I need not repeat her grateful thanks. From this time
+forward, our lives were widely separated.
+
+"During the long tedious months that followed, I was going through a
+bitter, humiliating experience. I strove by every effort to so interest
+myself in my church work, that I might forget my griefs and my
+disappointments. In this, I failed utterly. I found to my amazement,
+that I did not possess a thorough belief or confidence, in the efficacy
+of the atonement, the very ground work of the entire scheme of Christian
+salvation. Without this belief, I could not hope to do effective work in
+the ministry. No doubt, this was the cause of my lack of interest in my
+pastoral duties; the one thing, during this time of trials, which most
+disturbed my mental equilibrium, and added to the intensity of my
+sufferings. My growing antipathy towards all kinds of church work, daily
+increased the mental tension, caused by anxious seasons of watching,
+praying, and fighting, against the farther dominancy of this monstrous
+antipathy. All opposing efforts proved useless. With each succeeding
+week, my Sunday services became more burdensome, more perfunctory, more
+unsatisfactory, more self-accusing. At last, in self defense, the church
+trustees proposed my taking a year's vacation, for recuperation.
+
+"This welcome respite, I gladly accepted. My vacation, is now nearly
+finished. I cannot go back to my church. I do not wish to go. I realize,
+that I am wholly unfitted for its duties. I feel, that I have made life
+a failure! In fact, Fillmore, you see before you in your friend George
+Gaylord, a man who is aimlessly drifting on the sea of life, like a ship
+without a rudder. A man not yet thirty, without a home, without
+ambition, hope or purpose! Possibly, I may be in the clutches of some
+approaching attack of nervous prostration, I hope not, I am sure!
+
+"You must pardon my prolixity, Fillmore. I will now give you the reason
+for my present visit to Solaris. After my mother became very ill, some
+weeks before her death, she received a letter from Caroline Houghton, a
+life long friend, an old schoolmate. At that time, Mrs. Houghton was
+residing in a small town near Denver, Colorado. She was a widow with
+scant means of support; with only one child, a daughter. Mrs. Houghton,
+in her letter, said: 'I am dying among strangers! I am leaving my
+darling daughter alone in the world, without money, without relatives;
+simply in charge of recently acquired friends. As a last request, I beg
+you, after I am gone to exercise a protecting care over my orphaned
+child!'
+
+"This letter worried my mother greatly. I think if she had been well,
+she would have hurried to Mrs. Houghton's bedside. After some delay, she
+finally turned the letter over to me to answer. Just at that time, my
+mind was wholly preoccupied with preparations for my fast approaching
+wedding day; and also, with the adjustment of a number of important
+church matters, which demanded my immediate attention. Without taking
+time to read the letter, without realizing its importance, or its
+urgency; I mechanically placed it in my desk, thinking meanwhile, that
+when the time came in which I could pen a reply, I would then confer
+with mother for further instructions. Unfortunately, the letter became
+misplaced and all memory of its existence, passed out of my mind!
+
+"One month ago, while busily engaged in assorting and rearranging a
+confusing mass of papers, I found the lost letter. After reading it
+carefully, I became conscience-smitten, as I thought what serious
+results might have followed my criminal negligence. I then commenced a
+search for this young lady, which has finally lead me to Solaris. I have
+traced her here, as a member of your colony. Her name is Honora Eloise
+Houghton. Do you know her, Fillmore! Is she here?"
+
+"Make yourself perfectly easy, friend Gaylord! She is here! She is all
+right! Miss Houghton does not need your protecting care, or the
+protecting care of anyone. She is abundantly able to take good care of
+herself and of plenty of other people besides! She can dissipate your
+troubles in a jiffy! She can give you something to think of, which will
+not fail to hold your close attention. She can soon find a work for you,
+in which you will be interested in spite of yourself! In fact George,
+Honora Eloise Houghton, is one of the brightest, most independent,
+capable, self-poised, self-supporting young women at Solaris! If she
+should kindly consent to take you under the brooding care of her
+protecting wing, in one month's time you would not know yourself, you
+would be transformed into a new man! But, Miss Houghton is a very busy
+woman. One of the most useful on the farm! Just at present, she is the
+leading director of the nursery and kindergarten school; the principal
+female teacher, in the gymnasium; the president of the dancing club; the
+secretary and treasurer of the physiology club; and vice-president of
+the botany, chemistry and history clubs. After faithfully performing the
+duties belonging to these offices, she still finds time to do a great
+amount of scientific research and reading; so much, that last year, she
+easily carried off the prize, which was awarded to the best qualified,
+scientific student among the young ladies at Solaris."
+
+"Stop, Fillmore! You grieve and astonish me! You surely must be jesting,
+in dishing up this long rigmarole, about Miss Houghton's
+accomplishments! After what I have told you, I cannot conceive how you
+can fail to understand, that I am not in a mood for jesting. As for the
+girl, I very much desire to meet her, that I may have an opportunity to
+express the regrets and apologies for my unfortunate neglect of her
+mother's letter, to which she is so justly entitled. This painful duty
+once performed, my interest in Miss Houghton will cease."
+
+"I assure you, George, I am not jesting! I am very much in earnest! I
+think I understand your case thoroughly. I know that you do not realize
+the seriousness of that paralyzing, apathetic condition, into which you
+have fallen. I do not think you need condolence, or any form of mild
+sympathetic treatment. I am sure you do need very much, to be aroused by
+new associations, scenes, friends and acquaintances; strong magnetic
+people, with ideas so radical, so startling, that by one quick wrench,
+your line of thought may be diverted into some entirely new channel. If
+therefore, in my talk to you about Miss Houghton, I have succeeded in
+arousing your indignation, in the slightest degree, I shall be
+encouraged by knowing that my efforts for your good, have been made in
+the right direction."
+
+"Pardon me, Fillmore! I fear I have been hasty! And, that I have
+entirely misjudged your motive! I am now in a much better frame of mind,
+to listen attentively to what you have to say."
+
+"That sounds much more reasonable, George. I will now return to my
+description of Miss Houghton, which was broken off by your interruption.
+For the reasons I have just stated, I believe that Miss Houghton, is the
+one individual in a thousand, whose acquaintance just at present, would
+prove most beneficial for you. Of course you have not seen her, you do
+not know her; therefore, you cannot appreciate the peculiar charm of her
+magnetic presence, or the force and dignity of her attractive character.
+For this reason, a personal description, will fail to give you an
+adequate idea of the noble type of womanhood which she represents.
+
+"However, George, after these preliminary remarks, I hasten to assure
+you, that as a woman, Honora Eloise Houghton, is a goodly person to
+behold. One inch less than six feet in height, straight as an arrow,
+broad of shoulder, and round of limb, swift of hand and foot, lithe and
+willowy in every motion, her commanding figure possesses the grace and
+beauty, of a Venus and a Diana combined. Her large, full, well turned
+neck and throat, fittingly supports a symmetrical, well poised head, of
+the same noble proportions. A long, thick, luxuriant growth of golden
+hair, brilliant with changing hues of a coppery tinge, seemingly so
+surcharged with electro-magnetic force, as to form a halo of sunshine
+around both face and head, is her chief personal adornment. Her large,
+oval face, well formed mouth, strong white teeth, firm chin, finely
+arched, strongly defined brows, broad, smooth forehead, and straight
+grecian nose; all denote a character of marked type and unusual force.
+Full, clear, gray eyes, set well apart, beautifully and mirthfully
+expressive, together, with a bright, ruddy complexion, are both
+indicative of Miss Houghton's perfect health and strong, vital,
+nervous-sanguine temperament. With this temperament and such a
+magnificent physique, reinforced by wonderful psychic powers, she is an
+ideal healing medium. The very personification of health! Such is the
+potency of her magnetic force, that among the people of Solaris, cures
+performed by the simple process of laying on of hands, have made her the
+marvel of the village; they have won for her the confidence, respect,
+admiration and love, of every member of the colony; man, woman or child.
+
+"In conclusion, George, I may say with pride, that Miss Houghton
+represents one of the noblest of women, which may be discovered, evolved
+or grown by the co-operative farm. As an exponent of what the movement
+can do for woman, she is a shining example, of which our people may well
+be proud!
+
+"Try to be patient with me, George! I have described this young lady, at
+such length, in order that you may meet her without prejudice. We will
+now go in search of Miss Houghton, for an interview. After introducing
+you, I will return here. When the interview is at an end, I will have my
+light, road mobile ready, and we will take a spin around the farm.
+Afterwards, if there should be time, we will take a run over to Fenwick,
+ten miles away."
+
+"That arrangement will suit me very well, Fillmore! I am now quite
+curious to meet Miss Houghton. After my interview with her is concluded,
+I shall be delighted to accompany you on a mobile excursion over the
+farm. I have in mind a host of questions, which I wish to ask; after my
+tour of inspection, I am sure I can frame them more intelligently."
+
+Four days later, we find George Gaylord, again seated in the office with
+Fillmore Flagg. They are speaking of things which have transpired,
+during the interval named.
+
+"You are looking decidedly better, to-day, George! I congratulate you!
+After the fright you gave me, while at the club dance, that evening
+after your arrival at Solaris, I thought you were ticketed for a long,
+serious illness."
+
+"Really, Fillmore, I have Miss Houghton to thank for being able to again
+walk and talk with some degree of steadiness! She is truly, the most
+marvelous woman, that I have ever met! There seems to be a healing power
+in the very touch of her garments! I feel quite sure, that she has
+saved my life. I ought to apologize to the members of the dancing club,
+for the very awkward sensation, which must have followed my unfortunate
+collapse; that sudden attack of giddiness and loss of consciousness.
+Miss Houghton tells me, that the attack lasted over an hour, after I had
+been placed on a cot in the hospital. Were you there, Fillmore?"
+
+"What a question, George! Of course I was there! That one hour, seemed
+three to me. Knowing something of your critical condition, I was blaming
+myself, for having foolishly attempted to crowd so much into your first
+day's experience at Solaris. However, Miss Houghton assured me, that I
+need not be alarmed over the trance-like condition, into which you had
+fallen. She seemed to understand your case from the first, and declared
+that she could cure you with a few days' treatment. She further stated
+for my benefit, that I was in no wise responsible for the attack of
+vertigo, which in your condition, was liable to occur at any time.
+
+"So far as the dancing club people are concerned, no apologies on your
+part are needed. They understand the circumstances, and wish me to
+assure you, that they will rejoice with you over your speedy recovery.
+It seems, George, that your physician prescribes plenty of fresh air and
+sunshine for you, during the next few days. Do you think you are strong
+enough to-day, for another mobile excursion over the farm?"
+
+"Yes Fillmore, quite strong enough, provided the excursion is not too
+long. To-morrow, if the weather should be fine, I hope we may be able to
+take that trip to Fenwick, which you spoke of on the afternoon of my
+arrival. The more I see of the farm, the more I am interested and
+delighted. In a very short time, I believe I might become an enthusiast
+on the agricultural question. Hitherto, I have had an unexpressed
+antipathy, towards farm work.
+
+"Strongly impressed with the idea, that a farm life must necessarily, be
+as dull as ditch water; I find Solaris a revelation, which has opened my
+eyes and scattered my foolish prejudices to the four winds. At every
+turn, some new surprise awaits me. My typical farmer, with his shock of
+untrimmed hair and beard, his stooping shoulders, his shambling,
+plow-following gait, his great cow-hide boots, his coarse, soiled,
+slouchy, ill-fitting blouse and overalls, his grimy hands, his
+ill-at-ease, uncultured manners, and his born-tired expression of
+countenance, I cannot find. In his place, much to my astonishment, I do
+find a splendid people, in the prime of life, lithe, active and
+energetic, in the possession of a superabundance of vitality, which
+gives them the graceful air of having grown to a perfect maturity, on
+the sunny side of life. What does it mean? Everywhere, I am politely
+greeted, by dignified, graceful, self-poised, rosy-cheeked, bright-eyed,
+happy, well-dressed, educated, refined and polished men and women. Can
+it be possible, that they are farm laborers?"
+
+"Every one, friend Gaylord! It is to rightly organized farm labor,
+properly supplemented by appropriate machinery, that these people owe
+the superior condition in which you find them."
+
+"You have surely created a new era in farming, Fillmore! Do you think a
+general introduction of co-operative farming, will produce equally
+successful results elsewhere?"
+
+"Much better and more satisfactory, George! Co-operative farming, even
+here at Solaris, has as yet scarcely passed the threshold of the
+experimental stage. Every new farm, will profit by the errors and
+successes of those previously established. Each one will add to the
+strength and working capacity of the mass. This improvement will
+steadily increase, until the children born under the new system, become
+its principal working factors. When that time arrives, the influence of
+the born and bred agriculturalists, will have grown so strong, socially
+and politically, that a new impetus will be given to the movement, by
+the favorable legislation which they can then command.
+
+"When we consider the future of the co-operative farm, as a working
+factor for good, in the affairs of the Republic; we can then appreciate
+the great importance of the movement. Stirpiculture, wedded to
+agriculture, ushers in a new era for the birth and education of an
+epoch-making race of dominant thinkers, so well born, so self-poised, so
+harmoniously developed, physically, intellectually, and spiritually,
+that without effort, they are naturally chosen by the masses, as social
+and political leaders."
+
+"What an enthusiastic dreamer you are, Fillmore! The picture of the
+future of the movement, which you have so graphically drawn, seems too
+good to be true! My brain is in a whirl trying to follow you! Let us now
+prepare for that promised ride."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XL.
+
+THE COMING ERA OF GOOD ROADS.
+
+
+"Since our mobile excursion to the farm village of Fenwick, I have been
+haunted by the beauty, smoothness, utility and durability, of the
+magnificent highway, which now connects the two villages. I am more than
+ever impressed with the power of the co-operative movement, to effect a
+revolution in all industrial methods; especially, in travel and the
+transportation of farm products. Tell me, Fillmore! Do you think this
+road-building fever, will continue to spread with the growth of the
+movement?"
+
+"Yes, George, with every new road, will come an added impetus to the
+movement, which will insure a steady progress. The importance of good
+roads as a source of wealth, and a mark of civilization, is just
+beginning to be understood by agricultural people, and by rural
+populations generally. Oppressed on every hand by the universal
+extortion of railroad monopoly, they are slowly awakening to a
+realization of the fact, that the question of cheap transportation, is
+for them, the one, overshadowing question, which demands immediate
+attention.
+
+"As an object lesson on the subject of good roads, the introduction, and
+constantly increasing use, of bicycles, motor cycles, motor freight
+wagons, automobiles, electro mobiles, locomobiles, and the entire class
+of vehicles equipped with rubber tires, has aroused a widespread
+interest, which is prophetic of great results. Acting as a strong
+reinforcement to this educational work, the co-operative farm, with the
+advantage of its village organization, representing in the public mind,
+such an attractive combination of agricultural, industrial and social
+life; will by the force of example, give an additional impetus to the
+systematic construction of broad, permanent highways; that shall prove a
+source of pride, to the community through which they pass; roads, that
+shall last for centuries.
+
+"Reacting favorably, in broadening the mission of the co-operative
+farm-village, with its promise of permanent homes, and employment for
+the unemployed, and the homeless; the continuous construction of these
+free avenues of travel and transportation, will soon affect the status
+of all rural populations, by vastly increasing their wealth and power.
+For them, the vexed problem of transportation, will be solved. They will
+discover by actual experience, that these wide, durable wagon roads,
+will connect them with distant centers of traffic, and serve them better
+and more honestly, than steam railroads; that in cost of construction
+and repair, they are much cheaper; that when constructed, they belong to
+the people as absolutely, free highways; that no greedy corporation, can
+control them; that no threatening, irritating, lawless force, of
+Pinkerton's armed thugs, is required to protect them; and finally, that
+they offer every inducement to unfettered genius, to invent and to
+freely exploit, better and cheaper vehicles.
+
+"As one grand result of this combined educational work, rural life will
+become exceedingly desirable and charming. The great city, will lose its
+attractive force. The tide of migration, will flow back to the pure air,
+invigorating sunshine, blue sky, and the verdure-clad hills of the
+country. In a general way, we may predict, that a few years hence,
+everywhere throughout this broad land, we shall find picturesque,
+prosperous, well populated villages. As the minor centers of education,
+art-culture, refinement, amusement, progressive race-culture, scientific
+agriculture, esthetic, social and co-operative life; they will be
+embroidered, like a vast net-work of shining pearls, on a perfect system
+of broad, smooth, highways. In their construction, ornamentation and
+maintenance, these good roads will utilize and express, the pride,
+energy and best inventive genius, of the village centers thus linked
+together. As a result, the Republic will be gridironed with a superb
+system of free highways, more permanent, more perfect, and more
+beautiful, than those old, historic, Roman roads, which even now are
+existing monuments to the solid character of Roman civilization.
+
+"This imperial road system will be complete, when the co-operative farm
+has reached every township in the union. Then, we may calculate the
+results, which are to follow. Broad, tree-shaded, park-lined,
+flower-bordered boulevards, will connect New York with San Francisco;
+Galveston with Saint Paul; Portland, Maine, with Portland, Oregon; Los
+Angeles with Saint Louis; Boston with Buffalo, Philadelphia, and
+Baltimore with Jacksonville, Florida; New Orleans with Cincinnati and
+Chicago; the wonders of Yellowstone Park, with the crags and glens of
+the White Mountains, Niagara Falls, with the Grand Canon of the
+Colorado; the orange groves of Florida and California, with the
+picturesque, cool, invigorating, health resorts of Lake Superior; the
+wheat fields of the great Northwest, with the coal mines of
+Pennsylvania; Washington, the nation's capital, with every seaside
+resort, every mountain view, every beautiful city, every healing
+spring, and every hamlet and village of the Republic.
+
+"Pulsing with a new tide of social and industrial life, flowing through
+the arteries of this unequaled system of great highways; all of these
+places, both great and small, will become more closely bound together,
+by the links of a new social order; representing the beginning of a
+higher civilization. Then, these beautiful highways, will be glorified
+and appreciated by mankind, as the monumental work of one, broad system,
+of co-operative farm villages. Then, these villages, which have made
+such a system possible, may collectively claim the proud distinction, of
+being known as the Nation's Committee on Good Roads."
+
+"Excellent! Most excellent! Fillmore. Your prophetic vision, with the
+vastness and the brilliancy of its sweeping scope, fairly takes my
+breath! Yet, I must confess, that judging from the masterly system of
+road-building inaugurated by Solaris and Fenwick, the evolutionary
+results which you so confidently predict, are both reasonable and
+logical. What additional results, do you claim for the system?"
+
+"At this time, George, neither tongue nor pen, may attempt to describe
+the marvelous results which will follow the introduction of an era of
+good roads. In a brief way, I will try to give a few of the most
+important. In the matter of travel and transportation, these free
+highways, will annually, save millions of dollars to citizens of the
+Republic, by enabling them to escape from the clutches of the largest
+and most powerful of all monopolies; the railway monopoly. A monopoly,
+that for many years, has held the public by the throat; exacting a
+tariff so exorbitant, as to be almost prohibitory. A monopoly, which
+has had the amazing gall to pose as the farmer's especial benefactor. A
+monopoly, that while so posing, has robbed the country of one-half its
+wealth, by transferring the same to cities. A monopoly, that in the name
+of good business, has had the stupidity to decree through its tariff
+schedule, that miles and miles of empty freight cars, shall daily,
+throughout the land, roll past hundreds of thousands of farms, where
+countless tons of heavy freight, in the way of fresh vegetables, lie
+rotting for the want of a market. A monopoly, that never neglects an
+opportunity for fleecing the public. A monopoly, so unscrupulous, that
+for the pork trust, it will haul a hog across the continent for ninety
+cents; while for indifferent service, it dares to charge the people,
+from two and one-half, to five cents per mile.
+
+"And yet, George, just think of it! In the beginning, this monopoly was
+chartered to serve the people who granted the franchise. A monopoly, now
+grown so bold, that when the public protests that the franchise is
+violated, because the interests of the people are no longer served; a
+Vanderbilt railroad king, insolently replies: 'The public be damned!' A
+monopoly that has killed all healthy competition, by organizing all
+railroads into one giant pool; thereby creating the mother of trusts,
+controlling a corruption fund of enormous magnitude. A monopolistic
+trust, grown so rich and powerful, as to be beyond the reach of law;
+boldly corrupting courts, buying legislators, and turning the
+administration of justice into a farce. In fact, this monstrous combine,
+has become so dangerous to every interest of good government, that the
+law of self-preservation demands that it shall be speedily wiped out, by
+the government ownership of all railroads.
+
+"We may now consider the ways and means, by which our co-operative
+system of good roads, can control railroad freights, and finally drive
+railroads to government ownership. Long before the close of the first
+half of the twentieth century, thousands of miles of these fine wagon
+roads, will be found in every State. Responding to the demands of
+legions of voters, who reside in the co-operative farm villages
+bordering these charming highways; a strong force of legislators, will
+everywhere rise up, as eloquent advocates of the good roads movement.
+Honest and faithful, inspired by a tenacity of purpose which will brook
+no opposition from railroad lobbies; encouraged and strengthened, by an
+ever increasing army of enthusiastic voters behind them, these tireless
+legislators will not halt, until the entire system of good roads, so
+well begun by the farm villages, shall be taken up, completed, and
+perfected by the State. Ten years of such forceful work, will surely
+accomplish the task.
+
+"Then, to the champions of the system, shall come their reward. They
+shall behold, flowing in mighty streams, over the wide, petroleum
+treated, dustless surfaces, of these far-reaching, absolutely free
+highways, the traffic and travel of a mighty Republic!
+
+"Then, will come the demonstration of what American genius can do,
+toward the evolution of a superior class of rubber tired, horseless
+vehicles, which shall prove the best, cheapest and most durable, for
+purposes of freight, traffic, and travel, on such a complete system of
+fine roads. The best of our present types, when compared with these
+twentieth century road flyers and freight rollers, will seem poor, crude
+affairs. The irresistible volume of this swift stream of the new
+travel, and the new transportation, eloquent with the progress of the
+century, will herald the coming of a well-merited doom for the
+monopolistic railroad combines.
+
+"Then, local travel and traffic, will make haste to desert the iron
+rails. Railroad freights everywhere, will fall to zero. Short
+railroads--branches and feeders to main lines--will become useless and
+worthless. Many of them will be sold at auction, for less than the cost
+of the iron in the road-bed.
+
+"Then, shorn of their ill-gotten gains, the mighty railroad kings of the
+land, will fall from their tall pedestals of pride, where for years,
+they have posed as owners of the earth. With financial ruin staring them
+in the face, they, and the whole brood of erstwhile railroad kings, will
+make urgent haste to sell to the government, at the bare cost of
+construction, such great through lines as may be necessary to maintain
+inter-state commerce, and across-the-continent traffic. Other roads,
+they may not sell at any price. A government for the people, and by the
+people, will have no further use for them.
+
+"Then at last, the supreme folly of having a half-dozen competing lines,
+running side by side through the same territory, will be fully
+demonstrated. With this demonstration, will come the opportunity, to
+scores of paid press writers, pessimistic bigots, self-conceited,
+unprogressive wiseacres, who have so long and so loudly derided the
+government ownership of railroads, as the most suicidal and unbusiness
+like scheme ever hatched; to answer this pertinent question: Would it be
+possible, for government engineers building public railroads, to ever be
+guilty of such monumental stupidity?
+
+"The social effect of these good roads, on the lives of all
+agricultural people, will prove even more important than the financial
+advantages gained. Hitherto, they have been so hampered by environments,
+by lack of means, and lack of leisure, that as a class they have been
+unable to enjoy or to appreciate the wonderful, the educational, the
+broadening and the refining effect of much travel, on the mind of the
+individual. From lack of experience, they do not realize that the sum of
+human life is the sum of its sensations, which are produced by change of
+environment, contact with a larger or lesser series of natural
+phenomena, and more especially with other lives.
+
+"The more progressive lessons of life, are learned from example and not
+from precept. Men and women, are only children of a larger growth, they
+are imitative creatures with a natural instinct to choose other, higher,
+and better lives as models. Hence the great value of travel as an
+educator. The larger the area covered by the traveler, the wider the
+field of experience and choice. Through the law of action and reaction,
+social contact with a multitude of actors and thinkers, refines the
+individual. A healthy spirit of emulation is aroused, which leads on to
+progress.
+
+"With the advent of a universal system of good roads, cheap travel, and
+a dominant combination of co-operative, industrial and agricultural
+enterprise, an extraordinary era of recreation and travel, will dawn for
+all rural people. Opportunity, leisure, and means will be abundant. All
+co-operative workers, can afford to take an annual vacation of at least
+one month. The ownership of a swift, roomy, durable, road machine,
+capable of making from twenty to thirty-five miles an hour, will be
+within the means of every family. In this private car, the family, or a
+select party, could easily and leisurely accomplish a five thousand mile
+tour in twenty days. Along the whole distance, farm villages, from
+fifteen to twenty minutes apart, would offer the travelers, machine
+supplies, repairs, and excellent hotel accommodations, for an expense
+not in excess of the same at home. Than this, no traveling excursion
+could be more delightful! For pure enjoyment, a select party of
+nineteenth century millionaires, could not equal it.
+
+"The enjoyment of such delightful opportunities for even a single
+decade, would make the rank and file of the republic thoroughly
+acquainted, with the soil, scenery, forests, lakes and rivers; the
+mining and manufacturing possibilities; the peculiar characteristics of
+the people, their local ambitions, political wants and future demands,
+of every state and county in the union.
+
+"Thus equipped with this important knowledge, each voter, both men and
+women alike, would be prepared at any time to vote intelligently and
+wisely, on every question affecting the welfare of the republic as a
+whole, or in part. Elected to Congress, these voters would appear as the
+ablest, most patriotic, most just, and most incorruptible body of
+law-makers ever known. Understanding the equities of righteous dealing
+between themselves as fellow citizens, they would be prepared to decide
+correctly on all questions of an international character, which might
+affect the interests of the world at large. This would be a
+demonstration of the rule, as to the formation of a true republic. To
+make the entire political fabric both enduring and progressive, the
+units or voters, must be well born and rightly trained. Of this
+training, travel is an essential part, which should not, which must not
+be overlooked.
+
+"As affecting their social and intellectual progress, these years of
+travel would improve all classes of agricultural and industrial people,
+to a still higher degree than the one achieved in political expression.
+A general interest would be aroused in questions of political economy,
+race culture, psychology, and physiology; geology, geography and
+history, botany, chemistry, and mineralogy; which later, would lead to
+close reading and hard study in the whole domain of scientific research,
+as the one sure method of increasing the scope of individual happiness.
+Every succeeding year of this travel-training, would result in binding
+all classes still more firmly together, into one harmonious, homogeneous
+mass. Now George, tell me what you think of the good-roads question! Is
+it not one affecting the vital interests of humanity to a marvelous
+extent?"
+
+"Marvelous, Fillmore! Most marvelous! Hereafter, you can count on me as
+an enthusiastic advocate. I cannot say too much in its favor."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLI.
+
+CO-OPERATIVE ETHICS.
+
+
+"Speaking of wages," said George Gaylord, "did I understand you to say,
+that all of the co-operators at Solaris receive the same pay?"
+
+"Yes, George, equal wages for all classes of workers, is the motto at
+Solaris. Recognizing the solidarity of the interests of society, simple
+justice demands the same rate of pay for each member of the company;
+without regard to sex, or particular qualification."
+
+"It seems to me, Fillmore, that justice would demand that each one
+should be paid according to skill and capacity. I cannot understand, how
+anyone capable of being a foreman, would be content to accept, as a just
+equivalent for his services, a compensation as low as that awarded to
+the least capable worker in the colony."
+
+"I think I shall be able to convince you, George, that a correct view of
+this question, is largely a matter of education. You have, perhaps
+unconsciously, voiced the usual argument against the equity of equality,
+which is made by the champions of the competitive system. Our people
+have learned from experience, that the co-operative farm movement is a
+leveling up process, which purposes to raise the weaker units, to the
+condition of the higher. They have learned, that society is a purely
+co-operative institution. They have learned, that the wants of society,
+create value for the products of labor. Society, then, is labor's
+market. In this market, the wants of the weaker units, are just as
+important, as are those of the stronger. Stimulated by the number and
+variety of these wants, inventive genius has given to us tools and
+machinery, which have increased, at least one hundred fold, the capacity
+of labor to produce. In the creation of tools and machinery, the mental
+acuteness and inventive skill of the weaker unit, often surpasses that
+of the stronger. It follows, then, that each one of the weaker units, is
+justly entitled to an equal share of the advantages which are conferred
+on labor by society, with its market and equipment of tools and
+machinery. These advantages, make the productive work of all classes,
+nearly equal. Let us try to find the real difference, between the daily
+labor products of the strongest and the weakest workers. Let us consider
+present conditions here at Solaris, as an illustration. Let us take one
+hundred dollars, as the value of the product of one day's labor, by an
+average person, plus the advantage of such superior social organization,
+training, tools and equipment, as Solaris can now furnish. On the other
+hand, let us take fifty cents, as the value of one day's labor, by the
+strongest, most capable worker, when isolated from his fellows, and from
+all social organization, with its tools and equipment. Under the
+circumstances, allowing that the strongest could produce twice as much
+as the weakest, we should have twenty-five cents, as the value of the
+daily product of the weakest worker. These sums, compared with one
+hundred dollars, would give us the exact difference between the
+strongest and the weakest, under the favorable co-operative conditions,
+existing at Solaris. A difference, so trifling as to be scarcely worthy
+of consideration, only one-fourth of one per cent. What think you,
+George! Where now is the injustice of equal wages? Remember, when
+justice is done, the mission of charity is finished!"
+
+"Your clear statement of the case, has proved a revelation to me,
+Fillmore! I am quite ready to acknowledge the exact justice, of your
+co-operative system of equal wages. I am profoundly impressed with the
+soundness of your argument, that women and all weaker units in the army
+of labor, are justly entitled to an equal share of the advantages
+conferred on labor, by social organization, and by the education,
+training and equipment, resulting from that organization. This view of
+the question, is a new one to me. It places the whole subject, in quite
+a different light. By the aid of this light, I am beginning to
+understand something of the intricacy and force, of this co-operative
+machine, which we call society; and how much it affects the question of
+labor and wages.
+
+"My experience with co-operative farming here at Solaris, is beginning
+to bear fruit. Under your instruction, friend Flagg, I think I can now
+understand the wide difference, between the competitive and the
+co-operative systems of organized labor. The former, benefits the few at
+the expense of the many. The latter, raises the individual, by
+benefiting the mass. The first, seems to be a constant menace, which
+threatens the peace, welfare and stability of society; clearly making
+for evil. The second, striving for the interests of all, builds up,
+strengthens and purifies the weaker units; unmistakably making for good.
+The results seem to marshal themselves on the side of co-operation, for
+the purpose of demonstrating the truth of its shibboleth, that the
+injury or weakness of one, is the concern of all. In other words, to
+raise the lower strata of society, means a corresponding elevation for
+the upper. The average morality, happiness and prosperity of society, is
+measured by the morality, happiness and prosperity of its weaker units.
+Tell me, Fillmore, does the acceptance and advocacy of this view of the
+relations existing between labor and society, make one a socialist?"
+
+"They surely do, George! They make you a socialist of the most
+progressive type. I am both surprised and delighted, to find how well
+you have learned the lesson of co-operation."
+
+"If the co-operators at Solaris, are socialists, then they must be good
+people. I am perfectly willing to be classed with them. At all events, I
+am a thorough convert to the co-operative system. I can now understand
+the scope and significance of the work; and why it is, that the Solaris
+workers, are so much superior to any farm people I have ever known. I
+begin to perceive that the success of the co-operative farm, means the
+regeneration of society.
+
+"This morning, Fillmore, under the guidance of Miss Houghton, I visited
+the kindergarten, the schools, the club rooms and the theatre. I was
+amazed, to find such a magnificent system of education and amusement, in
+successful operation, for the benefit of a farm village. Indeed! A city
+of fifty thousand people, would be very fortunate, in the possession of
+such a fine one! How did you manage to make it possible?"
+
+"In carrying out the wise plans of Fennimore Fenwick, you behold to-day,
+the result of combined co-operative agriculture and stirpiculture, which
+affords to our people, and to their children, conditions for education
+and amusement, fully equal to anything, money can procure for the
+wealthy. Children born at Solaris, under carefully prepared conditions
+for a perfect motherhood, are endowed with a precious birth-right, far
+superior to anything heretofore known to heirs of wealth. The system is
+being constantly improved. As it now stands, I consider it the crowning
+success of the co-operative movement.
+
+"Speaking of Miss Houghton, George, reminds me of a question! You have
+yet to tell me, the result of your first interview with her. Did she
+seem to blame you so very much, for not answering her mother's letter?"
+
+"Oh! no! She was kindness personified. She hastened to assure me that,
+in the light of subsequent events, she came to understand the whole
+situation. It appears, that after writing the letter in question, her
+mother grew very much better. In this improved state, she lingered for
+some time, and did not die until several weeks after Miss Houghton had
+read to her, the notice of my mother's death, which came to them through
+the columns of an occasional New England newspaper.
+
+"Having answered your question, Fillmore, I will now return to the
+subject of my visit to the schools. The interest manifested by both
+children and teachers is something to be proud of. The amount of general
+information of a practical character, which the pupils have acquired,
+even in the lower classes, is quite surprising. This is especially
+noticeable, in the ready knowledge they display, regarding current
+political events; including the personal history, character and ability,
+of the various political leaders. Is it wise, to devote so much time to
+teaching politics; and to commence this teaching with children so young?
+Do you really consider it so very important?"
+
+"Yes, George, it is a matter of the utmost importance! A republic of
+ignorant people, is a republic only in name; in reality, it is an
+oligarchy. On the contrary, a true republic, is one in which all its
+units or voters, are so educated, that they are familiar with the theory
+and practice of government. They must know that true government is a
+co-operative institution, which must guard and protect with exact
+justice, the interests of all of the governed. They must know, the
+extent and condition of the agricultural, manufacturing, commercial,
+mineral and lumbering resources of the country. They should understand
+diplomatic, domestic and foreign relations. They should know every
+detail, of the educational, financial and political wants of the masses,
+in the domain of each State or Territory. Finally, they must be familiar
+with the character, trustworthiness and ability, of all political
+leaders. Children of the co-operative farm, are educated and trained, in
+a manner that will best fit them to become true citizens of such a
+republic. This is why, a practical, political education, to be
+successful, must become a matter of interest to the children while they
+are young. They will then learn, that a true republic, is a co-operative
+machine, which cannot run smoothly, while one imperfect cog remains to
+retard the action of its wheels. This valuable lesson, they cannot learn
+too soon. What think you, friend Gaylord?"
+
+"I cannot quite agree with you in this matter, Fillmore! I think it
+would be far wiser, while they are so young, to teach these children
+such lessons as will give them the ground work for a sound religious
+faith. Then they will understand the first importance, of being prepared
+to save their own souls. Later, in the closing school years, they could
+be taught your progressive, political scheme, which I think is a
+remarkably good one."
+
+"Stop one moment, George! I see Miss Houghton is coming. She will be
+delighted with an opportunity to answer some of your objections, to the
+co-operative code of ethics, evolved by the people of Solaris."
+
+"You are a welcome visitor, Miss Houghton! You have arrived, just in the
+nick of time! Our mutual friend here, Mr. Gaylord, has been telling me
+of his visit to our schools, under your guidance. While he praises the
+wonderful progress made by the pupils; he seems to think, that we teach
+too much politics and too little religion."
+
+"Pardon me, Miss Houghton!" said George Gaylord, "I assure you, that I
+was not indulging the spirit of fault finding! Allow me to explain! I
+had reached a point in our discussion, where I was about to remark, that
+since Adam's time, the people of the world have been born, heirs to the
+dominancy of total depravity. With this heritage, we are as prone to
+sin, as are the sparks to fly upward. Under such circumstances, it would
+surely be the height of folly, to attempt to overcome this natural
+tendency toward evil, without the aid of the strong arm of the church,
+with its broad mantle of christian faith and saving grace."
+
+"I grant you, Mr. Gaylord, that with your peculiar training, such a
+conclusion would be quite natural."
+
+"Now, Mr. Flagg! I have a word for you! We must make every allowance,
+for Mr. Gaylord's theological education. An education, that has filled
+his mind with somewhat distorted meanings, for the terms, religious
+faith, soul, sin, salvation, religion, total depravity and many others
+of a similar import, which theology has applied to man's spiritual
+welfare. Just at present, the difference between us, is wholly a matter
+of definition. When we have acquired a true meaning for these disputed
+terms, we shall stand harmoniously on a common ground. We shall then be
+ready to accept the higher teachings of the new religion. A religion of
+spiritual evolution and unfoldment, which responds to the progress of
+the twentieth century."
+
+"You are quite right, Miss Houghton! I am very willing to make the
+generous allowance you suggest. I think Mr. Gaylord would be glad to
+hear your views, regarding the practical teachings of the new religion."
+
+"Thank you, Fillmore!" said George Gaylord, "you have voiced a request,
+I was about to make. I trust Miss Houghton, will proceed at once. I will
+promise to be a listener, who is both interested and attentive."
+
+"I will promise one thing, Mr. Gaylord. It is this, before I have
+finished, I shall do my best, to convince you, that in embracing the new
+religion, the people of Solaris have devoted themselves to a system of
+religious teaching, which is far too broad for the limitation of church
+walls. That this new religion, is so practical, and so exacting, that
+its followers, if they are true, are in duty bound to observe it as a
+rule of life, seven days in the week, year in and year out.
+
+"As a primary basis, the new religion teaches, that all human life is
+sacred. That it is the highest expression on this planet, of an
+Omniscient purpose. Conscious life, or the capacity to become conscious
+of anything, is a Deific attribute. All knowledge comes to the mind
+through the avenue of the senses, or from sensations produced by contact
+with existing things in the domain of Nature. The domain of Nature, is
+the domain of the Omniscient! All real knowledge, acquired from this
+domain by right methods, which is in harmony with natural evolution, is
+Truth. Truth, then, is Divine!
+
+"From these broad premises, we may deduce, that to acquire knowledge, or
+to accumulate truth, becomes the highest duty of life, a religious
+activity of the highest order. To be engaged in the intellectual
+process of gaining knowledge, is to be engaged in a spiritual work. The
+intellectual process, is a spiritual process. By the psychologic action
+of the mind, through its sub-conscious functioning, all knowledge coming
+through the senses, first becomes the spiritual possession of the Ego,
+the Soul, the seat of consciousness, before it can be expressed
+materially by the mortal man. Hence, spiritual evolution, is a natural
+growth, a crowning part of physical and intellectual evolution. The
+body, as an associated colony of more or less intelligent cells, is an
+important part of the thinking machine. Body, brain and intellect, in
+their dual existence on the material plane, form an important trinity,
+which enables the Spirit to accumulate knowledge, and also to retain
+that knowledge, after the passing of the physical. To dispute this
+postulate, would be manifestly absurd, as the spiritual man is the
+conscious Ego, the real gleaner and possessor of knowledge. It follows
+then, that to be engaged in any kind of educational work, is to be
+engaged in a religious work of great spiritual importance. That, through
+proper intellectual training, we may obtain spiritual growth, rebuild
+the moral character, exterminate vice, and unfold the graces of virtue,
+purity, honesty and goodness. These are spiritual attributes, which
+embrace all there is in the domain of morals.
+
+"In appealing to the new religion, for a broader, truer definition of
+the term, Soul, we learn that Soul, as a cosmic unit of the larger
+cosmos, is the repository of infinite possibilities: That evolution is
+the law, by which these possibilities are unfolded: That it inherits
+immortality as a birthright, from the Great Over Soul, the source and
+center of all life: That, in fulfilling the law of life, by sojourning
+in the flesh for a brief period, it cannot be lost, or become totally
+depraved; although the body, which is but its earthly expression, may
+become so debased by poverty, selfishness and sin, as to momentarily
+thwart the Divine purpose of life.
+
+"From the same source, and by the same authority, in response to a
+sincere desire for a better definition of the word Sin; we are taught,
+that the object and purpose of the existence of this planet, is the
+evolution and perfection of the human race. Human life, then, is the
+flower and fruit of the planet. As such, it is the direct expression of
+a Divine purpose. At the command of a higher law, this life must at all
+times, be treated as sacred. From this high rock of observation, we
+perceive that all acts, by society or individuals, which tend to
+promote, protect and purify this life, are helpful along lines of
+evolution; therefore, righteous and good. In their doing, these acts
+become the highest expression of a religious duty. On the contrary, all
+acts, by society or individuals, which tend to destroy, injure, poison
+or sully this sacred life, or to bar its ordained progress, are in
+themselves, unholy, wrong and criminal. In commission, these acts become
+the greatest of all sins. The logic of this deduction, is beyond
+dispute; because they are direct attempts to thwart the progressive and
+evolutionary purpose of the planet; therefore, they must be considered
+as sins of the first magnitude.
+
+"Second in magnitude, and akin to these in wickedness, is the sin of
+society against women. A sin so potent for evil, that at the behest of
+selfishness, greed and lust, government, church and society, with one
+accord and without a protest, join in denying to woman an existence of
+financial independence. This denial makes slaves of women, who should
+be noble, pure, self-poised, self-sustaining and absolutely free. But
+the acme of wickedness is reached, when this denial reduces women to
+creatures of merchandise, when every year, it drives unnumbered
+thousands of them to lives of degredation and shame; thus perpetrating
+the crime of the century against unborn generations, by tainting and
+poisoning the fountain of life at its very source. The new religion has
+decreed, that the mothers of a perfected republic, must of a necessity,
+be both pure and free. It purposes to cure this crime, by working
+through the strong arms of an ever-increasing series, of unselfish
+co-operative brotherhoods, where a progressive union of agriculture, and
+stirpiculture, shall provide for and protect both mothers and children;
+at the same time furnishing the ways and means, which offer an
+honorable, useful self-sustaining existence to all woman kind, be they
+wives, mothers, sisters or sweethearts.
+
+"Third in magnitude and closely allied to the first two, is the great
+sin of ignorance. The mother of bigotry and superstitious fear; the
+father of duplicity and craven cowardice! What we know, we fear not. It
+is only the mysterious darkness of the unknown, that is filled with
+terror. To abolish ignorance, is to make the mind master over matter.
+Mind is both the spiritual and the intellectual expression of the soul.
+True culture of the mind, is moral culture. It is only the well grown,
+highly cultured mind, that can reflect the inherent graces of the
+spirit, which mark all noble characters. To the individual, who has
+acquired a knowledge of the law of evolution and environment, is given
+the power to control environmental conditions; by wresting from nature
+the secrets of success, in feeding, clothing, housing, educating and
+elevating humanity. It follows then, that to overcome the sin of
+ignorance, is to banish poverty. To banish poverty, is to banish want.
+To banish want, is to take away the very foundations of the sin of
+selfishness. Selfishness, is the father of a multitude of sins, which
+must perish with it.
+
+"From these premises we must deduce, that all educative work in the
+proper sense, is a religious activity, which makes us better acquainted
+with the relations which exist, between man and his Creator, the Great
+Over Soul. The spiritualizing influence of this intellectual work,
+carries with it the compensation of a great reward. It crowns the
+gleaner, with happiness of the purest type. As knowledge increases, the
+field of knowledge expands, the flood of happiness swells in volume. A
+long busy life on the material plane of existence, is far too short to
+acquire this vast treasure, which is commensurate with the needs of
+progress for an eternity of spiritual existence, to which, this life is
+simply the primary school. With a better understanding of the nature of
+sin, and of the alarming extent of its evil influence over human life;
+the new religion undertakes to bless mankind, by banishing ignorance,
+poverty and crime. To this practical, spiritual work, the people of
+Solaris religiously devote themselves, as being a life-work of the
+noblest order.
+
+"The three principal sins which we have considered, may be justly
+regarded as the parents of all lesser sins. Having given a few brief
+suggestions as to methods of cure, which are offered by the new
+religion; I am now ready, Mr. Gaylord, to take up the doctrine of total
+depravity; which plays such an important part in your theology.
+
+"As the primary step, I will re-state a prior postulate, as follows:
+The spiritual man, is the conscious Ego, the Soul, or a cosmic unit of
+the larger cosmos; an indestructible part of the great life principle.
+As such, it is the repository of infinite possibilities, which are
+destined to be unfolded by the law of progressive evolution. From the
+Great Over Soul, it inherits immortality and indestructibility;
+therefore, it cannot be lost, saved, or become depraved. The mortal body
+is an outer covering, through which it must express itself on the
+material plane of existence. Physical, intellectual and spiritual life,
+are subject to the law of evolution, by which they achieve progression
+and fulfill the purpose of existence.
+
+"To assume, that the people of this planet, are born subject to the
+dominancy of total depravity, is to deny immortality, and the truth of
+these postulates. In denying them, it denies the existence of a dominant
+principle of good, and affirms the existence of a dominant principle of
+evil. It also denies all progress, all moral reform, every noble
+aspiration, every good deed, all evolution, all science and all reason.
+Where then, in the economy of nature, is there room or use for the
+doctrine of total depravity? A doctrine so pernicious, that in the
+mouths of its advocates, it has done more than aught else, to destroy
+the confidence of mortals, in the wisdom and justice of the Divine plan
+of the universe. To even assert its existence, is to question the
+existence of a universe, under the reign of justice, law and order.
+Evidently, the doctrine of total depravity, does not belong to the
+domain of fact. It is equally clear, that it must be a theological
+fiction. A sin of theology against progress, which in the dazzling
+whiteness of the spiritual light of the new religion, must soon fade
+into oblivion.
+
+"Can we teach politics to school children, as a part of our religious
+duties? Is a question we will now consider. The answer, will depend
+largely on the definition, which we give to the word religion. Let us
+try to find a true definition, broad enough to embrace an affirmative
+answer to our question. As a basis, we have human life as the highest
+expression of the planet. With the physical body, as the basis for
+intellectual evolution. With intellectual evolution, as the basis for
+spiritual evolution. Hence, we have as a conclusion, that the spiritual
+development and unfoldment of the race, up to a point where it can
+accept the truth of immortality, is the logical purpose to be
+accomplished by all religions. Reasoning from these premises, it would
+seem clear, that the practical value of any religion, must be measured
+by its ability to teach the people how to help themselves; how to master
+the great problem of physical life, by attaining perfection in the arts
+of feeding, clothing, housing, educating and spiritualizing the race.
+If, in connection with these solid foundations for a natural religion,
+we add the important fact, that this is a republic, in which the wish of
+the majority, should become the law of the mass; we shall discover that
+politics become the natural channel, through which the wishes of the
+majority are expressed; that corrupt politics, result in bad government;
+that pure politics, insure good government; that a wise, just
+government, is the greatest political benefit which can be conferred on
+the people governed. United, these conclusions give an affirmative
+answer to our question. They also tell us why, the new religion, the
+mouth-piece of inspiration, reason, science, evolution and progress,
+should proclaim it a religious duty, to teach our children,--embryo
+citizens of the republic--every practical detail of pure politics.
+
+"What think you, Mr. Gaylord? Have your objections, been satisfactorily
+answered? Can we agree to accept new definitions, for the disputed
+religious terms, which we have been discussing?"
+
+"I am satisfied, Miss Houghton, that I have been quite too hasty in my
+conclusions! You have convinced me of the importance of teaching pure
+politics to children, as a part of their religious training. With regard
+to other religious questions, you have answered my objections in a most
+masterly manner! The practical religion, which you have so beautifully
+outlined and so clearly defined, seems worthy of all the eloquence which
+you have bestowed upon it. That dreadful doctrine of total depravity,
+which you have so effectually demolished, has always been a repulsive
+one to me! For years, it has been a tormenting theological thorn in my
+side! I could never quite reconcile its existence, with the overruling
+dominion of an all-wise Creator; the very embodiment of Infinite
+goodness. I may as well say frankly, that I have often tried to find
+some good reason for denying it! Now, I have found one, that will
+satisfy my conscience. With the vexing doctrine of total depravity
+eliminated from the religious problem, a definition for the term,
+practical religion, becomes much more simple. A new light is thrown on
+the whole subject. Just at present, under the influence of this light, I
+am inclined to think, that your statements and your premises, are all
+true. Granting this, I will cheerfully admit, that the people of
+Solaris, are nobly living practical religious lives. I am very much
+interested in the wonderful claims of this new religion. I trust, that
+after some weeks of careful examination, I may be able to accept them
+without one single reservation. After that, I venture to promise, that
+we shall be able to agree on a satisfactory definition, for all disputed
+religious terms."
+
+"Bravo! George! Now, you are talking more like your old self, more like
+a reasonable man. You are making great progress, in mastering the
+underlying principles and practical work of the co-operative movement! I
+think, Miss Houghton, that you ought to join in offering
+congratulations. Will you not?"
+
+"Yes, Mr. Flagg! I shall be glad to do so! First, I want to compliment
+Mr. Gaylord, on his excellence as a listener! Then again, I wish to
+thank him, for his kindly summing up, of the impressions, which came to
+him from my rather long sermon on practical religion.
+
+"Now gentlemen, you must excuse me! I have an engagement, which demands
+my immediate presence at the kindergarten."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLII.
+
+RURAL LIFE UNDER THE REIGN OF CO-OPERATION.
+
+
+"I wish, Fillmore," said George Gaylord, "to question your statement, as
+to the ability of the co-operative movement, to check the rush from
+country to city life. The tide of the movement is a strong one, that has
+been constantly increasing in volume, for the past twenty years. I fear
+that even the popular co-operative movement, will fail to turn the
+flood."
+
+"The thing is sure to be accomplished, George! But, to understand the
+workings of the underlying force, which shall make this change possible,
+we must first study the units of rural society. Of course, the financial
+basis of these units, must be supported by agriculture. Agriculture is,
+and must continue to be the main support of all rural populations. Fifty
+years ago, agriculture as a whole, comprised a vast collection of small
+farms and farmers. Then, the small farmer and his family, as the stable
+unit of suburban society, was financially and practically independent.
+Questions of over-production of food products, rise or fall in the price
+of exchange, panic in the money market, or an adverse balance of trade,
+disturbed them not.
+
+"Under the spur of necessity, and as a part of the legitimate farm work,
+the farmer and his family, in a crude way, practiced many of the
+industrial arts, such as leather working, harness making, boot and shoe
+making, cloth making, the carding, spinning and weaving of wool; the
+preparation, spinning and weaving of flax or linen fabrics; the
+manufacture of many farm implements, brooms, baskets, harrows, sleds and
+carts; tailoring, making all kinds of underwear, hosiery, gloves and
+mittens; linen furnishings, for table and bed, together with many other
+articles of household use. Often, the forge and the anvil, with tools
+for rough iron working, were added to the equipment of the farm. In
+those days, farming required a knowledge of the use of tools; the
+square, the level, the plumb-bob; the hammer, the saw and the plane;
+were as necessary to the farmer, as they were to the carpenter.
+
+"If we carefully study the significance of these things, we shall soon
+discover, that in reality those farms were practically, combined
+agricultural and manufacturing institutions, which were self-supporting
+and self-sustaining to such an extent, that farm people were the most
+independent on the face of the globe. As such, these small farm centers
+were potent factors, in swiftly advancing the permanent wealth and
+civilization of rural society. Born and trained in this practical school
+of life; financially unshackled, therefore politically free; our farmers
+of fifty years ago, developed a spirit of sturdy independence, a
+patriotic devotion, a steadfastness of purpose, a self-confidence, and a
+power of the initiative, which made them the pride and the bulwark of
+the nation. They were the well trained, trustworthy citizens, of a true
+republic.
+
+"Evolutionary progress, moves forward by waves. The depression between
+the crest of the last and the summit of the succeeding wave, represents
+the transition, from one step of progress to the next higher. Therefore,
+periods of depression, need not cause alarm, they are in reality
+prophecies of progress. Let us apply this evolutionary law to
+agriculture and its people, as being in the transition stage, during the
+past forty years.
+
+"Since the beginning of the last half of the nineteenth century, the
+separation between agriculture and manufacture has been going forward,
+the gulf between them becoming wider and more absolute, with each
+succeeding year. Invention, improved machinery, combinations of capital,
+the sub-division of the various trades into specialties, leaving the
+worker, master of none; all have served to develop the entire system of
+manufacturing industries, to a degree out of all harmony with the tardy
+progress made by agriculture. The mining and manufacturing craze, has
+swallowed up all other interests. Like a whirlwind, it has spread over
+the land, drawing into the ranks of its toilers hosts of agricultural
+workers; thus swelling the army, producing manufactured articles, and
+correspondingly reducing the home market for such things.
+
+"These conditions have naturally produced a congested market. Logically,
+there has followed, periods of stagnation, labor riots on account of
+reduced wages, periods of enforced idleness, and panics in the money
+market; all culminating in a loud demand for relief from the burden of
+over-production, by securing control of foreign markets. So completely
+has the manufacturing craze dominated the commercial and political
+economy of the republic, that both leaders and people are blind to the
+real cause of the calamity. An aggressive and progressive minority begin
+to realize, that the laborer and the farmer are no longer free, that
+they are the slaves of capital with its factories and machines, or of
+railroad combines, which control all lines of transportation. But no one
+sufficiently understands the situation, to be able to answer why.
+
+"Now let us study the history of agriculture, during the past forty
+years. This trying period of transition, has been marked by many
+changes. The small farm family, shorn of its ability to manufacture,
+even in a crude way; for shoes, clothing, bedding and table linen, must
+patronize factories located in distant cities. In order to pay for these
+things, much farm produce must be shipped to remote markets. In both
+cases, such heavy freights, commissions and profits, are paid to lines
+of transportation, middle men and handlers, that at the end of the
+year, the farmer's net proceeds are reduced to zero, or at least very
+close to that point. If the farmer be in debt, he finds himself unable
+to pay the interest on the indebtedness. If the farm represents much
+invested capital, the net income of the farm becomes too meagre to pay
+even a moderate rate of interest on its cost value; therefore its
+selling value must shrink to the level of its reduced income. In this
+way a large share of the available assets of the small farmer, are swept
+away. The savings of years, are swallowed up and lost. Savings, that in
+the aggregate, amount to many millions of dollars. What has become of
+these values? They have been absorbed by the cities and the railroad
+monopolies, whose servants the cities are.
+
+"Four decades of this process, has robbed the farm-center, as a unit of
+rural society, of its former wealth, independence and power. Rural
+society as a whole, is no stronger than its weakest unit. This is why
+agricultural districts are depopulated, while cities are over crowded.
+These results are the work of the competitive system, with its wasteful,
+wicked methods of distribution and exchange, which so widely separates
+the farm and the factory, the farmer and the artisan, the food and the
+consumer.
+
+"From another point of view, we may discover that inventive genius, has
+added a long list of labor-saving machinery, to the equipment of the
+farm. Since wheat growing, has become the leading crop, this expensive
+machinery must be included in the outfit of every successful farm. The
+burden of this expense, has proved too great for the capacity of the
+small farm. It has encumbered thousands of them with an indebtedness so
+hopeless, that its annual interest swallows up the income of the farm.
+From these causes, a crisis in the affairs of agriculture has arisen,
+which has demanded larger farms, more capital, more brain force and more
+systematic, better organized, co-operative labor. Hence, the evolution
+of the bonanza farm; with which the small farm can no longer compete.
+Notwithstanding its many wasteful methods, the bonanza farm has been a
+step in the right direction. It has taught our agricultural people a
+valuable lesson, as to what may be accomplished by the combined
+co-operation of brains, labor and capital. It has demonstrated the
+necessity for the evolution of the co-operative farm. It has prepared
+the way for it.
+
+"With the advent of the co-operative farm, will come the beginning of a
+new agricultural era. The co-operative farm village, with its well
+organized, allied industries, will again unite agriculture with
+manufacture. The village will represent the new unit of rural society.
+This unit will be free, independent and self-sustaining. The occupation
+of farming, will be lifted into a new realm. It will become the
+occupation of the noble, the cultured and the progressive. The people of
+these farm centers, will form the warp and woof of agricultural society,
+organized as a whole. The presence of organized society, largely adds to
+the value of all lands and to the value of agricultural and manufactured
+products.
+
+"The brilliant author of 'Volney's Ruins,' well understood the force of
+this principle as applied to increasing agricultural wealth, and at the
+same time largely adding to the general prosperity of the State. In an
+essay published in 1790, Volney lays down the following principles: 'The
+force of a State is in proportion to its population; population is in
+proportion to plenty; plenty is in proportion to tillage; and tillage,
+to personal and immediate interest, that is to the spirit of property.
+Whence it follows, that the nearer the cultivator approaches the passive
+condition of a mercenary, the less industry and activity are to be
+expected from him; and, on the other hand, the nearer he is to the
+condition of a free and entire proprietor, the more extension he gives
+to his own forces, to the produce of his lands, and to the general
+prosperity of the State.'
+
+"Each co-operative farm, will become a new center of permanent wealth; a
+new center of social progress; of organized labor; of distribution and
+exchange. These new centers, by again bringing together the food and the
+consumer, will save millions for themselves, which under the competitive
+system, were thrown away in freights and commissions. As these farm
+centers continue to increase, they may stretch away in one unbroken
+chain, perhaps five hundred miles in length. Each link in the chain,
+will be a five or ten-mile boulevard. Altogether, forming one continuous
+system of broad, free highways, the finest the world ever saw! Aided by
+trains of horseless carriages, there will be developed between the
+centers along this highway, a new system of transportation,
+distribution, commerce and exchange. With the establishment of each new
+system, the co-operative movement will gain an added impetus. The
+centers of exchange, distribution and commerce, located in great cities,
+will gradually lose their dominancy. The long lines of monopolized
+railroads, connecting these cities, will as surely lose a large
+proportion of their traffic. The magnetic wealth and bustle of the great
+city, will lose its attractive power. As a consequence, and by the
+action of a natural law, the tide of wealth and population, will flow
+back to the country; with its meadows and fields, its mountains and
+streams, its sunshine, blue skies, pure air and wholesome, enjoyable
+village life. Amid such surroundings, upright and just, fearless and
+free, the model citizen of a true republic, may find a natural home."
+
+"Pardon me, Fillmore, for the interruption! I freely concede the
+desirability of the results, which you have so glowingly pictured.
+Nevertheless, I cannot quite agree with you, about the existence of a
+law, through which the tide of wealth and population will again flow
+towards the country. I am inclined to think, that facts and figures are
+against such a result. The statistics of the census of 1890, indicate
+that about one-third of the population, and over seventy-five per cent
+of the wealth of the nation, were then located in the cities. A little
+later, able thinkers and writers of the Josiah Strong type, proclaimed,
+that by the middle of the twentieth century, this would be a nation of
+cities, with less than ten per cent of its wealth and population
+remaining rural. As startling as these predictions are, I very much
+fear, that the logic of events favor their fulfillment!"
+
+"If you will give me a little more time George, I think I shall be able
+to show you where these writers erred, in reasoning from wrong premises.
+They have judged the trend of events and the probable results that are
+to follow, from the standpoint of the competitive system. A system,
+which they have accepted without question as a permanent one, never to
+be replaced by another. This was the fatal error, which has robbed their
+conclusions of all value.
+
+"In discussing the status of our great cities, these writers all agree,
+that they are a constant menace to the nation; centers of political
+corruption, which are in every way antagonistic to the letter and spirit
+of a republican form of government; aggregations of the most dangerous
+elements of society, which are incapable of self-government. These
+admissions have a wonderful significance. Let us examine them.
+
+"The question of society, becomes a potent factor in the solution of
+this problem. Society, like a great leviathan, covers the face of our
+country. Representing the aggregate of life, it affects all lives. As
+the social side of the body politic, it has the power to strangle or to
+nourish, every interest which is dear to those lives. Dominant society,
+is the support and inspiration of government. The excellence of any
+government, may be measured by the excellence of the society upon which
+that government is based. Under the standard of a republic, society may
+be divided into two classes; the true and the false. Reasoning from
+these premises, we may conclude, that in order to have a true republic,
+we must first evolve a true society.
+
+"The society representing the competitive system, has its centers or
+units in our great cities. Its votaries, are worshippers of wealth. They
+are importers of foreign fashions, and foreign ideas of government. They
+believe in caste. They detest equality. They have no love and very
+little respect for the equal rights guaranteed by the Constitution. They
+despise honest labor. They consider it menial, as a badge of servitude.
+They believe that wealth is a power which can raise the wealthy few to
+the dominancy of a privileged class. They believe that as members of
+this class, they can treat all other classes as servitors and
+dependents, who may be hired to do anything for money. They view with
+complacency, the crowded populations of our great cities. The greater
+and more dense the mass of people, the larger, more dependent and more
+obsequious the class of servitors. They are naturally, more or less in
+sympathy with monarchial and despotic institutions. They believe that
+the rulers, judges and law-makers, should come from the ranks of the
+privileged class. They are out of harmony with the republic, because it
+is the true form of a co-operative government. Co-operation, they hate,
+it smacks of equality! They are devoted to the competitive system. They
+recognize its power to maintain a perpetual warfare among competitors,
+which shall forever keep the main host in such abject poverty, that they
+willingly become slaves to the wealthy. Having lost their independence,
+the votes of these competitors are at the command of their financial
+masters. Than this, nothing could be more harmful to the welfare of a
+true republic.
+
+"This form of urban society, is the flower of the competitive system.
+The tendency of this society is to so engender selfishness, and to so
+destroy patriotism, that a multi-millionaire of the William Waldorf
+Astor type, deliberately achieves the acme of shame, by renouncing his
+allegiance to a country to which he owes everything. He expatriates
+himself, and flies to the refuge of a monarchy, to escape the honest
+burden of a just taxation. A taxation based on an assessment of less
+than one-third the rate, which is applied to the average farmer of the
+republic. One example of such ignominy, ought to teach every patriot,
+that the true republic must be built on the solid foundation of a
+society and industrial system, which represents justice and equality.
+
+"Let us now question the co-operative movement, with the purpose of
+ascertaining its fitness to become the base of a new society, and also
+the proper foundation for a true republic. In a society growing out of
+the co-operative system, as our rural and agricultural societies may now
+do. We find the conditions are reversed. Labor, is the badge of
+respectability. It is the title to an honorable independence. In such a
+society, both men and women are free. All are co-operators, none are
+servitors. No beggars! No caste! The units of a co-operative society,
+are sound and healthy to the core. Co-operation, insures
+self-employment. Self-employment brings freedom, ambition, independence,
+self-respect, leisure and education; with all the comforts and
+refinements of life. With these insured, the co-operator cannot be
+bought or corrupted by wealth. Each co-operator becomes a citizen, who
+without fear and without restraint, may speak, write and vote, in
+accordance with the highest dictates of conscience. A healthful degree
+of honorable, self-sustaining labor for all, is the key-note of this
+social organization. Men and women are placed on the same plane of
+equality, financially, socially and industrially. For woman, this is a
+matter of the utmost importance.
+
+"Productive co-operative labor, crowns woman with a self-supporting,
+self-respecting independence, which emphasizes her freedom from every
+form of bondage. In this, we have a perfect demonstration of the power
+of labor to bless humanity. Progressive life and invigorating labor, go
+hand in hand. One is the complement of the other. Labor as naturally
+promotes grace, strength, virtue and long life; as idleness breeds
+helplessness, vice, disease and extinction. Here we discover the wisdom,
+and the universal application of nature's law of labor. This law
+demands, that women who wish to become mothers of a dominant race, and
+who desire to secure perpetuity and progress for that race, must take an
+active part in some useful, productive labor. If we consider the
+significance of this demand, we shall perceive, that any form of social
+or industrial organization which denies this right to woman, or which
+takes from her the opportunity, the necessity, or the desire to labor,
+becomes her worst enemy, a foe to humanity, that is conspiring to reduce
+her to the degredation of a helpless dependent, a mere parasite. In her
+declaration, that 'The human female parasite, is the most deadly microbe
+which can make its appearance on the surface of any social organism;'
+Olive Schreiner has summed up in one sentence, the grave danger from
+this source which threatens the race.
+
+"The combined and marvelous effects of the co-operative system and
+society on the woman question, rightfully places that industrial and
+social system far above all others, in the choice of a secure basis for
+the foundation of a true republic. In fact, George! After carefully
+considering the bearings of the questions involved, I feel sure that you
+will heartily agree with me in the assertion, that co-operative society,
+is the very embodiment of even handed justice, in which the rights of
+all are considered. Furthermore, you will be willing to admit, that it
+teaches the value of labor, and how to discover its uses and abuses. In
+eliminating its abuses, it will appear, that true progress, is to so
+improve and increase the ease and attractiveness of all kinds of labor,
+that they can no longer be classed as toil, or even disagreeable tasks.
+This then, is the legitimate field of inventive genius. Success in this
+field is assured, because it is in harmony with all laws of progress.
+Every hardship, every difficulty and every danger, which is eliminated
+from physical labor, increases in the same proportion, the opportunity
+and the demand for mental labor. This demonstrates the action of
+nature's law of compensation, which in elevating the character of labor,
+maintains its quantity."
+
+"Yes Fillmore, I am convinced! I am willing to admit the truth of the
+assertions, which you have made concerning co-operative society, as the
+result of the co-operative movement. No doubt, they are destined in the
+near future to supersede the competitive system and the city society
+which grew out of it. As I view the situation now, that time cannot come
+too quickly! Yet, there is one point which still puzzles me. It is in
+connection with the rapid improvement of labor saving agricultural
+machinery, which, as Josiah Strong says, will soon enable a few farmers
+to do all the farm work, forcing all other agriculturalists to seek
+employment in manufacturing cities. How can you answer that argument,
+from the co-operative standpoint?"
+
+"That is a pertinent question George, to which co-operation can furnish
+many conclusive answers. Let us consider the significance, and the
+conclusiveness, of some of the following:
+
+"Under the co-operative system, every new labor-saving machine applied
+to agriculture, means just so much added wealth for the farm colony. It
+affords that much additional income, for active workers; so much more
+money to swell the annuity fund, for the retired members; so much more
+cash capital, for the sinking fund, with which to purchase, and to
+retain the permanent control, of an ever-increasing series of
+co-operative farms, for the lasting benefit of their people. With
+co-operative genius to invent, and an abundance of capital with which to
+buy, the advent of any conceivable quantity of improved machinery on the
+co-operative farm, would only serve to increase the wealth, leisure and
+independence of the co-operators.
+
+"Such well-conditioned people could not, under any circumstances, be
+forced to leave homes of luxury and refinement in the country, to become
+the working slaves of a manufacturing syndicate in the city. Indeed! Why
+should they? Why should these co-operators, or any one with the
+opportunity to become such, go to the city to accept an insufficient and
+uncertain wage; to be compelled to pay five prices for food, when a
+better and more abundant supply, could be raised on lands of their own,
+with less than one-half the exertion? Having good homes of their own,
+why should these people pay exorbitant rents to owners of tenement
+houses, for the poor privilege of living in stuffy rooms, choked with
+smoke and filth, and surrounded by the clatter, the strife, the poverty
+and the soul-wearing competition of the great city.
+
+"Why should they rob their children of health and happiness, by
+depriving them of a natural birthright, healthful exercise, free access
+to the pure air, the bright sunshine, the blue sky and the unnumbered
+charms of country life, with its fascination of ever changing landscape,
+a picturesque mingling of verdure clad hills, green meadows, shady
+forests, clear lakes and bold mountains? Why should these children be
+compelled to live a cramped, unnatural life, confined to the narrow
+streets, poisoned both mentally and physically, by the foul air,
+disease, corruption, crime and misery of the densely populated city? Why
+should agriculturists, who are independent co-operative owners of the
+soil, humiliate themselves by joining the vast army of struggling
+competitors, who throng the already overcrowded labor market in our
+great cities? Why should they be eager to become the financial and
+political slaves of the leaders of the competitive system; the social
+autocrats, who form the society of the 'Four Hundred?'"
+
+"Can a Josiah Strong answer these questions? No! Why not? Because, in
+blindly reasoning and writing from the competitive standpoint, he has
+quite overlooked the fact that agriculture is the base of all wealth. He
+has forgotten, that as a class, agricultural people who own the farming
+lands of the country, hold the key to the situation. Made conscious of
+their strength by co-operation, they are the most independent people
+living. They are in a position to dictate terms to all other classes.
+They cannot be forced to do anything, which they do not wish to do. In
+arriving at his conclusions, it seems quite probable that Josiah Strong
+has made the serious mistake of accepting as true, a very prevalent
+idea, that in due course of business, (competitive business) all lands
+everywhere, would belong to the city capitalist; therefore, that all
+farmers would then be tenants at will, who could be turned off the land
+at the caprice of the owner. In this fatal mistake, we discover the
+error which has vitiated all premises from which he has been reasoning.
+
+"Thanks to the forceful lessons, taught by Henry George, to which our
+agricultural people have given two decades of careful study. They have
+learned, that free access to land, is absolutely necessary to a natural
+enjoyment of life. They have learned, that for this reason, those who
+own land are masters of those who do not. With a sturdy independence
+which should characterize all citizens of a true republic, they have an
+intense antipathy towards all forms of slavery. Determined to remain
+free; they have redoubled their efforts to possess, and to retain
+permanent control of lands, sufficient for themselves and their
+children. In this work, they have discovered that co-operation leads to
+perfect success.
+
+"In answering other arguments advanced to show why the city should
+dominate the country, and therefore absorb its population; the question
+of rent plays an important part. It should be studied carefully. The law
+of rent, is an enigma to the poorer classes, upon whose necks its yoke
+presses as a grievous burden. They sweat and groan under the burden, but
+can discover no way of escape. They must be educated. They must know the
+cause, before they can learn to avoid the effect.
+
+"Rent, is a legal harness which enables the capitalist who owns houses
+and lands, to bind needy people to do his work. Through the exactions of
+rent, he can compel these people who can least afford to do it, to pay
+his taxes, his interest on capital invested, his living expenses, his
+traveling expenses, his insurance and such wide margins of profit, as
+necessity, opportunity and favorable location, may allow him to take.
+Rent values, like land values and market values, are exponents of social
+organization. Human lives, enter into the equation of these values. The
+absence of people diminishes these values, the presence of people
+increases them. For this reason, rents are highest in great cities,
+lowest in the sparsely settled country, touching zero on lands occupied
+by nomads. Land values, are affected in the same way. This will give us
+a clue, to the transitory character of wealth composed of values. It
+will give us another reason, for the shrinkage in value of farm lands,
+and the increased wealth of cities; which follows the migration of
+people from country to city.
+
+"We may now consider another important factor, which affects rent values
+in great cities. It is the spur of a sharp want, of the urgent necessity
+of helplessness, which must drive and control the actions of a large
+majority of the inhabitants. The presence of these elements is
+necessary, in order to create the highest markets for rents. The larger
+the throng and the keener the necessities of the crowd of bidders
+competing, the higher the prices they will pay for rent. Under the reign
+of the competitive system, this is a conclusive demonstration of the
+truth of the saying, 'That the necessities of the poor, are the
+opportunities of the rich.' Is anything further needed, to prove that
+the competitive system is the essence of a cruel barbarism, which blots
+the civilization and shames the humanity of the republic? Why not change
+it for the co-operative system?
+
+"Under the progressive and beneficent reign of co-operation, there would
+be homes for the homeless, land for the landless, work for the
+unemployed and independence for all. This would mean, a total absence of
+want; that imperative spur, which is so necessary to the life of
+competition.
+
+"Transportation and taxation, are two factors yet unnoticed, which
+materially affect rent values in great cities.
+
+"Taking up the question of transportation; we soon discover its
+importance. The great manufacturing city, is the center of a complete
+network of railroads. The inhabitants of the city, are at the mercy of
+these railroads. Nominally, they are supposed to be competing lines. As
+a matter of fact, by means of traffic association, they become one huge,
+consolidated monopoly. A monopoly so dangerous, so powerful, so
+unscrupulous, and so voracious, that it does not hesitate in fixing and
+maintaining rates so exorbitant, as to be actually prohibitory, at least
+so far as two-thirds of the city dwellers are concerned. Meanwhile the
+monopoly arbitrarily depresses rents and land values in the country,
+while it increases them in the city.
+
+"Let me give you an illustration of the methods, by which these results
+are accomplished. Take if you please, the case of an average city,
+factory-worker; receiving an average wage of one dollar and fifty cents
+per day. On this wage, he has a family to support. In the country,
+thirty miles away, he can have a comfortable house, with a nice large
+garden, for the moderate rent of five dollars per month. A most
+desirable home! But, here comes the opportunity for the railroad! A ten
+cent fare each way, six days in the week, would pay the railroad a
+handsome profit. But, a handsome profit does not satisfy a monopoly! The
+handsome profit must be doubled six times, before it will consent to
+serve the public! As a result, this workman, not having the ready cash
+with which to purchase a monthly commutation ticket, must pay to the
+monopoly, at its lowest rate (two cents per mile) the gross amount of
+one dollar and twenty cents per day for transportation. Subtract this
+sum from the workman's daily wage; there will remain the scant trifle of
+thirty cents, with which to pay bills for food, fuel, clothing,
+medicine and other family expenses. Utterly impossible! Even if the
+owner of the country house and lot, should consent to reduce its price
+and its rent one-half, the workman would still be prohibited by the
+railroad, from taking advantage of the reduction. He would gladly pay
+the ten cent fare, for then he would be able to pay ten dollars per
+month rent, for the luxury of occupying such a desirable country home.
+This would be a blessing to all interested parties; still, it cannot be,
+because the monopoly says no! Being a monopoly under the protection of
+the competitive system, its dictates may not be questioned.
+
+"Although, the case cited, may be duplicated a thousand times, every day
+in the week, in every large city of the republic; yet, everywhere, on
+all possible occasions, the common sense of the people is outraged, and
+their ears offended, by the loud shouts of the competitive leaders, who
+praise without stint the great usefulness of the monopolistic trust.
+Solemn as owls, with an air of great learning, they assure the people
+that these beneficent trusts, are the natural outgrowth of high-grade
+business methods, which must be let alone. Do the poor people, the
+farmers, the country land owners, and the working men, join in these
+shoutings? Obviously and most assuredly, they do not!
+
+"Let us now follow our factory workman back to the city, for the purpose
+of noting the effect of this monopolized transportation, on city rents.
+Baffled in his desire to live in the country, he seeks to make the best
+of a bad situation. As a consequence, he is obliged to pay to the owner
+of some tenement house, a rental of fifteen dollars per month for three
+small rooms; poorly ventilated, unfurnished and unheated. These rooms
+are so undesirable on account of difficult access, bad location,
+unsavory smells, and the immediate presence of other tenants in the
+house, who are quarrelsome, drunken, filthy and generally disreputable;
+that but for the prohibitory tariff maintained by the railroads they
+would remain unoccupied, even if the rent should be reduced to seven
+dollars and fifty cents per month. However, poor workmen receiving scant
+wages, may not expect to be choosers. They with their wives and
+children, must ever bravely strive to adjust themselves to their
+environments, which more often than otherwise, prove cruelly bitter and
+oppressive.
+
+"In the case of our artisan, who is a brave, industrious, hopeful
+fellow; after paying his rent, he will have left from his monthly wages,
+the small sum of twenty-one dollars. Providing of course, that
+throughout the month, he has been so fortunate as to remain well and to
+lose no time. With this amount, (seventy cents per day) he must manage
+as best he can, under such adverse circumstances, to feed, warm, clothe,
+shoe, and protect his family. With such a meagre sum to supply so many
+wants, it is impossible for him, even under the most favorable
+circumstances, to make petty savings with which to meet emergencies.
+When the misfortune of sickness overtakes him, the situation becomes
+appalling!
+
+"From this illustration, we may judge how much the city is indebted to
+the railroad monopoly for its high rents. To great cities, high rent is
+a matter of the utmost importance. Take all rent advantages from them,
+and the entire list of their manufacturing industries, could be carried
+on in country villages with equal profit. It is quite evident then,
+that these cities are alive to the fact that rent is a measure of the
+value of locations."
+
+"Before going farther, Fillmore, allow me to inquire! Why could not
+these working men and their families, who are confined to the city by
+the high rates of the railroad monopoly, find cheap country homes near
+the city; say within a radius of from five to ten miles?"
+
+"Thank you George, for such an opportune question! Its answer leads
+directly to a discussion of the question of taxation.
+
+"A land monopoly, is more to be feared, more harmful to the poor and
+more disastrous to the interests of the general public, than any other
+kind. The worst form of land monopoly, may be found in full force, along
+the outskirts of large cities. These monopolies are made possible, by
+the unjust application of a faulty system of taxation.
+
+"As a preliminary step, a hungry host of individual capitalists and land
+syndicates, proceed to purchase large tracts of adjacent lands at farm
+prices. These lands are then sub-divided into villa sites, and into a
+variety of sizes of town lots. Prices are placed on these lots, which
+would about equal the value of the ground, when in course of time, at
+the edge of the city, they should be covered by dwellings or business
+houses. This accomplished, the holders like cormorants, sit and wait for
+the growth of the city and the efforts and capital of other people, to
+so increase the value of their holdings, that they can realize their
+prices and take their profits. These periods of waiting, may cover a
+long time, often, from one to twenty years. Meanwhile, these monopolized
+lands are kept out of use, because on account of high price, they cannot
+be used for agricultural purposes.
+
+"Why can these land monopolists afford to wait so long? Because an
+inequitable system of taxation, discriminates in their favor; offering
+aid and encouragement for them to do so. Without this aid, it would be
+impossible to keep these lands out of use.
+
+"How can this happen? In the first place, these sub-divided lands, as a
+whole in large tracts, are assessed at the rural rates applied to unused
+and unoccupied lands. These assessed values, may be so low, as to be
+less than one per cent of the asking price of the lots. As time passes,
+they are liable to be slowly increased. Under such a discriminating
+system of assessment, the taxes that may be collected, are merely
+nominal. This unequal system of taxation, is applied, in a proportionate
+degree, to all unoccupied lands inside the city limits, which are held
+out of use by the land speculators.
+
+"How does this state of affairs affect city rents, and at the same time,
+assist in preventing the poorer classes from enjoying the advantage of
+country homes? First, it establishes a broad zone of monopolized land
+around the city. This zone continues to increase in width with the
+growth of the city. Scattered through this zone, are many tracts of
+farming lands in active use. For this reason, they have to bear an extra
+burden of taxes, in order to equalize the low rates on such large tracts
+of idle land. These heavy taxes are patiently borne by the resident
+farmers, with the hope of reimbursement in the near future, by being
+able to sell their farms for extraordinary prices. In this way, abnormal
+prices become firmly established throughout the zone; which like some
+great barrier most effectively confines the working man and his family,
+to the narrow limits of a city tenement, with its high rents.
+
+"If a builder with some idle capital, should wish to erect a
+considerable number of modest cottages, within the limits of this
+monopolized zone; with the purpose of renting them to working men; he
+would find it impossible, or at least impracticable to do so. Why?
+Because he would have to pay almost city prices for the ground; then,
+having covered the lots with houses, he would be obliged to pay a heavy
+penalty for this outlay of capital, by the grievous burden of taxation,
+which would fall upon him. Houses built under these circumstances, could
+not be let at a rent low enough to be within the means of the working
+man.
+
+"The number of people who are confined to city life by the causes named,
+is very large. Just how large, I have no means of ascertaining.
+Families, who are subsisting on incomes of ten dollars per week and
+less, furnish a large proportion of this number.
+
+"We have seen that the disastrous crowding, the alarming density of our
+large city populations, is mainly due to two causes. High
+transportation, caused by the railroad combine; and an outrageous land
+monopoly, made possible by a bad system of taxation. We have seen, that
+this dense mass of needy humanity, constantly creates such a fierce
+competition, that rents must grow higher and wages must grow lower. We
+have seen, that the causes named, are steadily diminishing the wealth of
+rural sections, by transferring it to the great city. We have seen that
+this whole movement, which tends to transform the great majority of the
+independent citizens of a republic, into the financial slaves of an
+oligarchy, is the natural outgrowth of the competitive system. Taught by
+history, we know, that as the oligarchy rises and reigns, the republic
+dies.
+
+"Knowing the causes which have produced these conditions, we are
+prepared to discover, and to apply the most efficient remedies. It is
+only by associated effort, that rural populations can successfully
+oppose the concentration of wealth in cities. The well organized mass,
+becomes a great power. The new century demands a new industrial
+organization. The co-operative system, answers the demand. It is in
+harmony with the idea, that life is the most precious of all things.
+Therefore, it recognizes that opportunity to labor, and to enjoy the
+fruits of that labor, is the highest privilege of life. Under the reign
+of co-operation, this is insured. United in congenial co-operative
+associations, farming and working people in the country, reinforced by
+large numbers of recruits from cities, may build up for themselves, new
+centers of combined industries, society, wealth, distribution, exchange,
+education, amusement and insurance; which will place them in the ranks
+of the self-employed, who are financially and politically free. By
+growth and expansion, these centers will become the units of a vast
+co-operative system, which must soon wholly displace the competitive.
+
+"The inspiring motive of this co-operative system, will be the elevation
+and perfection of human lives. To this end will tend the invention of
+every labor-saving machine; increasing the product and shortening the
+hours of labor. With the physical man thus properly nourished and
+developed; the intellectual and spiritual man, will for the first time
+in history, have the necessary conditions in which to expand, blossom
+and bear fruit. Under such circumstances, life in the country will be
+both altruistic and idealistic. By comparison, life in cities will
+become a hardship which few will care to choose. The few, it may be
+taken for granted, will be so bound to the wheels of Mammon that they
+cannot get away.
+
+"The larger independence and better education of the co-operative
+majority of voters, will soon enable them to find a relief for the
+imprisoned populations of cities, which are now confined by the pressure
+of land monopolies and railroad combines. They will see to it, that
+these railroads become the property of the government; well knowing that
+they can never be made to serve the public honestly, until the public
+owns them. As for the land monopolists, they will find their holdings so
+burdened with taxes, that they can no longer keep them out of use. The
+erection of fine buildings will be encouraged. Costly mansions,
+dwellings, or factories, will not increase the tax. With these barriers
+removed, the densely packed populations will quickly expand. They will
+fly from center to circumference of the city. Later, they will be
+attracted to the country village, where more congenial homes and
+employments await them. Then educated and emancipated, they will no
+longer pay rent.
+
+"We have seen that the economics of society vitally affect the status of
+human lives; physically, morally and spiritually; industrially,
+financially and politically.
+
+"We have seen, that rural society, based on the co-operative farm colony
+as a unit; answers every demand for the protection and development of
+human life. We have seen that the inspiration of this society, is to
+secure for all, a lasting reign of peace, plenty, harmony and progress;
+a most convincing proof, that it is the ideal society on which to build
+a true republic, that shall be self-sustaining.
+
+"We have seen that the perfect emancipation of woman, and the exalted
+motherhood, which is made possible by the advantages of the co-operative
+system, insures the permanency and the dominancy of a republic so
+supported.
+
+"In analyzing the workings of the competitive system, we have seen that
+its methods are those of war. In the never-ending struggle of competing
+strife, opposing armies of human beings slowly grind each other to
+death; leaving unaccomplished the real object and purpose of life. This
+enormous waste of life, violates every principle of a republican form of
+government. It aborts even the efforts of planetary evolution.
+
+"We have seen that the competitive system produces monopolies and
+trusts, with a constantly increasing tendency to concentrate wealth in
+cities; placing it in the hands of the few, who are the financial
+masters of the many.
+
+"We have seen that from the ranks of the wealthy few, come the leaders
+of competitive society, who make their strong holds in the great city.
+They are the shining lights of the competitive system. They believe in a
+constant warfare of competition, which brings suffering to the many and
+success to the few. We have seen that a surfeit of wealth and power, has
+made these leaders so despicably selfish and unpatriotic, that they are
+unwilling to pay a just proportion of tax for support of the government.
+
+"We have seen that the monopolist, encouraged by the sympathy of
+competitive society, endeavors to monopolize administrative and
+executive functions. By means of unequal rates of taxation, and more
+especially of unjust assessments, he is able to shift most of his taxes
+to the shoulders of farmers and small property holders in state, county
+and town. This outrageous evasion by the rich, of their just share of
+the burdens of government, is shameful to the last degree! It robs the
+poor of all protection, that governments are bound to offer! It is a
+crime against humanity! It is a sin against the perpetuity of the
+republic! It is anarchy! If a government is no longer able to protect
+its poor; then, such a government has forfeited all right to exist!
+
+"We have seen that a true government, republican in form, is a
+co-operative institution, which must be based on justice, and equal
+rights, for all; thus recognizing the common brotherhood of humanity.
+Organized and maintained for the purpose of conserving, developing and
+protecting life; such a government, would at all times be guided by the
+beacon light of the axiom, 'That the injury of one is the concern of
+all.' It would wisely measure its strength and perfection as a
+government, by the strength and perfection of its weakest unit.
+
+"We have seen that with members of competitive society, the accumulation
+of wealth, becomes the sole ambition of life; that they may enjoy the
+ease, luxury and social power which follows. We have seen that wealth
+develops selfishness and idleness. Idleness breeds helplessness, vice,
+disease, and extinction. The predominance of such a society, would mean
+the death of the republic.
+
+"Having compared the merits and demerits of the two industrial systems,
+and of their closely related societies; taking it for granted, that as
+the highest expression of social evolution, the republic must endure;
+which, George, do you think will prove the true system, the true
+society, that must predominate; that must naturally develop most social
+and political power; most perfect conditions of life; most happiness?"
+
+"There can be but one answer, Fillmore! The co-operative is the true
+system, and the true society! You have made it very plain that the
+republic cannot endure without them. It is equally evident, that with
+restraining influences removed, city populations in a large measure,
+will again return to the country for homes; attracted thither by the
+many advantages offered by co-operative village life."
+
+"Speaking of homes, George, reminds me that I must now confer with you
+in regard to a personal matter, which may affect your work and your
+welfare for many years. This is the fifteenth of September. You have now
+been in Solaris, a little over one month, with an opportunity to study
+the co-operative movement quite extensively. I believe you are in
+harmony with it; and can do a good work for it.
+
+"This office, as you know, is the present headquarters of the general
+movement. Tomorrow I am going East, to be absent at least one month,
+perhaps three. I wish you, as my private secretary, to at once take
+charge of the office. I can offer you a salary of $1,500 for the first
+year. The office staff is a capable one, which will make your work quite
+light. I have made arrangements with Mr. and Mrs. Gerrish and with Miss
+Houghton, to co-operate with you as advisers. Since the first
+establishment of the office, Miss Houghton has so often volunteered to
+assist me, that she is now familiar with the routine work. Finally, I
+shall at all times while away, be within reach by phone or wire; by
+which I wish you to consult me whenever occasion may demand. What say
+you, George! Can you accept my proposal?"
+
+"Yes, Fillmore, I accept without one moment's hesitation! I shall be
+delighted with the opportunity to work for the interests of
+co-operation. You may trust me to do my best!
+
+"By the way, Fillmore! I take it for granted, that before you return you
+will meet Miss Fenwick, and her friend Mrs. Bainbridge, if so, please
+present my regards."
+
+"I shall not forget your message, friend Gaylord! Miss Fenwick is now at
+Fairy-Fern-Cottage, on the Hudson. She will meet me at Fenwick Hall, in
+Washington, where we are to be married on the twentieth day of this
+month.
+
+"The wedding is to be strictly private and informal, only Miss Fenwick's
+attorneys are to be present as the necessary witnesses. After the
+wedding, the customary tour will be omitted; leaving us free to remain
+at Fenwick Hall, until the inspiration of the moment brings the choice
+of some mountain or sea-side resort.
+
+"I shall expect you, George, to mail weekly reports from the office, to
+Fenwick Hall. Wire me for instructions, whenever you are in doubt."
+
+"I shall obey your wishes to the letter, Fillmore! What you tell me of
+the coming wedding, is glorious news! I congratulate you with all my
+heart, on your great good fortune! You deserve it; you have well earned
+it!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIII.
+
+A TWENTIETH CENTURY HONEYMOON.
+
+
+At Fenwick Hall, in the early twilight of their wedding day, we find our
+hero and heroine, the bride and groom, now husband and wife. They are
+sitting side by side, hand in hand, looking forth from the large
+southern window of that magnificent tower room, hitherto known as the
+private retreat of Fern Fenwick. The outlook from that window was a
+revelation of beauty, as perfect as a dream of fairy land.
+
+As the twilight deepened, high in the southern sky, the full-orbed
+splendor of a September moon, glorified with its soft radiance, the
+marked beauty of the Capital City--the Pearl City of the republic. From
+the mysterious depths of stilly night, intensifying the soothing charm
+of moonlight; there came softly stealing through the open window, the
+balmy airs of evening, laden with the fragrant breath of a thousand
+flowers. From the Aqueduct Bridge to Fort Foote, a long line of
+brilliant light, with many a graceful curve, marked the pathway of the
+broad Potomac, whose unruffled bosom shone like a mirror of burnished
+silver. Stretching across the valley from distant heights, a fleecy veil
+of enchantment woven in the loom of mist, etherealized city and river,
+dome and monument, tower and steeple, cottage and castle; adding a weird
+beauty to the magnificent array of public buildings, which owned the
+Capitol and the Library as chief. Above and beyond all else in its
+unapproachable glory, the Dome of the Capitol in the mellow, hazy
+moonlight, shone resplendent as a matchless crown to the architecture
+of the Occident!
+
+Responsive to the spell woven by the fairy fingers of moonlight, in
+which soul and sense sink to the spiritual repose of that serene calm,
+where in silence, happiness of the purest type best expresses itself;
+these newly wedded lovers, living in the inner world, lost to the outer,
+remained motionless and absorbed in the ecstasy of contemplation.
+
+Fern was the first to break the silence. She said: "My dear Fillmore!
+Tell me, is this the beginning of some reign of enchantment? The
+culmination of love's dream? Are we waking or dreaming? Can it be
+possible, that this glorious moonlight, so auspiciously ushering in our
+honeymoon, is typical and indicative of its endurance, of its unalloyed
+brightness?"
+
+"My wife! Chosen one of all women! Your devoted lover for six years;
+having passed the stage of love at first sight, hopeless love,
+worshiping love from afar, patient love, love requited and love
+rewarded; I am now so happy, so unspeakably optimistic, that I accept
+without question the happy augury of enchanted moonlight, as being truly
+prophetic. Besides, having a wife so noble, so good and so wise, to make
+it possible; how could our honeymoon be other than the most delightful
+ever known to the history of love? You may trust me, dear heart, to do
+my best towards making that prophecy come true!"
+
+"In discussing honeymoons, even my own; I may not be permitted to trust,
+in what is given to me to know. As a maiden of twenty-six summers, now
+your wife; I know very well that a husband who is just, loving, noble
+and true, is the most important of all factors, in securing the
+perfection of the ideal honeymoon. That six-year ordeal of loyal,
+patient love, which you have so thoughtfully analyzed and classified,
+has made you very dear to me! In overcoming this ordeal so victoriously,
+you have displayed a strength of character which has commanded my
+admiration. You have been unselfish, courageous, persistent of purpose,
+trustful, thoughtfully sagacious, perfectly trustworthy, and strictly
+honorable. For these characteristics, so like those possessed by my
+father; I love you more than for all else. Since crowned with conscious
+life, my father has been to me, the standard of an ideal man! If ever a
+daughter worshipped a father; I was that daughter. In character, you, of
+all the men I have met, are the nearest like him. Stronger words of
+praise than these, the lips of a proud, loving wife, could not utter!
+Now Fillmore! My dear husband! I am going to kiss you, as an antidote;
+lest the fervor of my speech, should make you vain, just a little!"
+
+"The antidote seems to work like a charm! Yet, a speech so full of such
+crushing praise, coming from the lips of the loveliest and most
+thoughtful of wives, is very provocative to vanity. It makes my case so
+desperate, that it really requires heroic treatment. To make the
+antidote effective, I should say, increase the quantity of the dose;
+administer very frequently!
+
+"But seriously, my dear wife! I am overwhelmed by the tribute of praise,
+which you have paid to my character! To me, the character of Fennimore
+Fenwick, is nobleness personified! To have my own continually compared
+with one so exalted, is a very trying ordeal. I tremble for the
+consequences! I am now so happy, that in the very selfishness of my
+love for you, I may shatter your ideal. To disappoint you; would be to
+forfeit my paradise! In times of trial, I shall appeal to you as the
+noblest and best of wives, to use your highest gifts of occult power to
+assist me in retaining your respect, admiration and love. Meanwhile, my
+dear wife! I shall cherish in my heart, the memory of your tribute, as a
+talisman, as a perpetual inspiration to live up to my highest ideal!
+Whatever happens, I shall be myself."
+
+"That, Fillmore, has the true ring of your natural nobility! Be
+yourself, and we shall be lovers forever! With that question settled;
+under the inspiration of this lovely moon, let us commence the
+construction of our castles in the air. In marrying a woman with a great
+fortune, you have pledged yourself to share equally with her, the
+pleasures, cares and responsibilities of her riches. Remembering, that
+henceforth, we are joint trustees, under my father's direction, for the
+wise use and distribution of this wealth. It becomes our duty to make
+competent and well-considered plans for the work. What say you, my dear
+husband! Shall we not do well, if we devote a generous share of our
+honeymoon to the making, development and perfection of these plans?"
+
+"What you propose, my dear Fern, will make me very happy! I shall be
+delighted with the opportunity to relieve you of a portion of the burden
+of your responsibilities, by sharing them. How, and when shall we
+commence the plan making?"
+
+"Before undertaking the plans, it will be necessary for us to ascertain
+just how much we are worth, financially speaking. For this purpose, we
+must make a complete and carefully classified inventory of our
+properties, both real and personal. This important task, we will take up
+tomorrow, working deliberately until it is finished. It is quite likely
+to prove a long one, bristling with interesting data, suggestive and
+educative, as to the extent of your newly assumed responsibilities.
+
+"After the inventory is complete, we will each in favor of the other,
+make and execute a will, conveying the property described by the
+inventory. Then, we shall be prepared for the accidents, emergencies and
+unexpected changes of a mortal existence.
+
+"Having disposed of the wills, we will return to the inventory. Going
+over it without haste, item by item. While considering each one, I will
+give its history; then, we will make a short note, embodying our
+individual ideas as to the best present or future disposition of that
+particular piece of property. These notes to be attached to the
+inventory. By the time we have finished this work, you will have
+acquired such a firm mental grasp of our financial situation, that you
+can advise me wisely, or act alone, as the occasion may demand."
+
+"Pardon me, sweetheart! What of our coming conference with your father,
+Fennimore Fenwick? Is that to be postponed until we have finished the
+preliminary work, which you have outlined?"
+
+"Yes, my lover! I would not have you take part in the consultation,
+without first being equipped with this important knowledge. Besides, it
+was so understood, by father and myself, when we arranged to have the
+conference take place on the afternoon of the fifth day after the
+wedding. There will be plenty of time. You are perfectly satisfied with
+the arrangement, are you not?"
+
+"More than satisfied, my good angel! I can hardly realize my good
+fortune! I am eager to begin the work. What a delightful time we shall
+have! To have you introduce me to our wealth, by the way of this unique,
+honeymoon program; is something very like a fairy story! I could not
+devise or imagine anything more delightful!
+
+"Six years ago, at the time of our meeting, I was hopeful and ambitious.
+My heart was filled with an earnest longing for the fulfillment of my
+one great purpose in life. But, how to accomplish that purpose, was
+hidden from me by the veil of the future. Then, I never dreamed that
+waiting behind the veil, love was the goddess of good fortune, who was
+to guide me to success! It is the unexpected which always happens!
+Thinking not of self; destiny smiled on my unselfishness, and kindly led
+me to my fate! Having met you, I dared to love! Discovering that you
+cherished a purpose in life like my own, I dared to hope! Trusting to
+love, as the messenger of destiny; in the unalloyed happiness of this
+glorious honeymoon, I have reached the goal of all my ambitious hopes!
+When I reflect on the magical change of my environments, and the new
+career in life which has opened for me; I can appreciate the full
+significance of the miracle which love has wrought!
+
+"Knowing the importance of unselfishness on the part of the individual,
+as a necessary factor in the successful co-operation of the multitude; I
+perceive that selfishness must be overcome by a comprehensive system of
+education, organized for that particular purpose. The organization of
+such a system must be accomplished by a small number of enthusiasts, who
+are willing to devote their lives to it. This means, that they must be
+people of wealth and leisure.
+
+"As an evidence of appreciation of responsibility, for my stewardship
+of the wealth which you have bestowed upon me; I wish now to declare my
+purpose. It is, to devote the remainder of my life to this educational
+work. It now comes to me, that this is the work described for us, in
+your letter, written to me over thirty months ago; where, in a vision of
+the future, you saw us united, side by side, hand in hand, fighting
+successfully against the poverty breeding hosts of selfishness. From the
+innermost depths of my being, I rejoice over this most fortunate
+opportunity, which permits me to take an active part in such an
+important work! My heart swells with pride and happiness, when I feel
+and know that I am to have the honor of standing by your side, in the
+fore-front of the fight!
+
+"I can now appreciate the utility of my long apprenticeship on the
+co-operative farm. In no other way, could I have been so well prepared
+for leadership in the educational movement. I have learned just what
+agricultural people need to make them perfect citizens of a perfected
+republic. A republic of peace, without a police; without the burden of a
+standing army, to menace and oppress its citizens, because they are
+already a law unto themselves, at peace with all the world. When I
+analyze the influences which have inspired and led me, throughout this
+extraordinary course of training; I recognize the action of a dominant,
+guiding mind; the far-seeing wisdom of my noble friend and benefactor,
+Fennimore Fenwick. To him, and to the spirit world, I shall ever be
+profoundly grateful! Is it not a most beautiful illustration, of the
+power of spirits to co-operate with mortals?"
+
+"Very true and rightly spoken, my prince of husbands! I too, am glad,
+that during the six years of your preparatory training, destiny's
+messenger--love--has guided you so wisely. With your intuitive nature, I
+am not surprised that you have divined so clearly, the general scope of
+the life work, which my father has planned for us. At the coming
+conference, he is to unfold the details of the work. Let us well employ
+the intervening time, in doing the preliminary work; which, as you have
+so well said, will give us an added relish for the enjoyment of our
+delightful honeymoon."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XLIV.
+
+THE NEW CRUSADE.
+
+
+The beautiful seance room at Fenwick Hall, was known to the chosen few,
+as the "Tower of the Psychics." In fittings, furniture, and equipment,
+it was much the same as the square room in the central tower at Fairy
+Fern Cottage. From the beginning, this room had been devoted to but one
+purpose; that of an audience chamber for the intercommunion of the Two
+Worlds, the spirit and the mortal. Every visiting mortal felt the
+presence of a refined spiritual atmosphere, a highly charged,
+electrostatic potential, which made possible superior spiritual
+conditions. In this room, Fennimore Fenwick was at home, to the chosen
+few of his friends on the mortal plane of existence. On the afternoon of
+the conference, we find our hero and heroine in this room, awaiting the
+coming of Fennimore Fenwick.
+
+While Fillmore was admiring the full length, life size painting of his
+spiritual friend and benefactor, which hung on the wall opposite the
+entrance to the room; the familiar voice of the original, through the
+trumpet very near, gave him a cordial greeting.
+
+"Bless you, my son! How glad I am, to welcome you to Fenwick Hall, as
+its new master! May your reign here as such, prove long and prosperous!
+In the enthusiasm of my fatherly pride, allow me to congratulate you on
+your rare good fortune, in winning the hand and heart of my daughter,
+Fern. She is a pearl above price! Ever love her devotedly, my boy!
+Cherish her tenderly, as the brightest jewel in your crown of life!"
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Fenwick! For your affectionate and kindly words of
+welcome! To me, they are more gracious, more inspiring and more
+delightful, than words can express! They have so taken me by surprise,
+that I am overwhelmed by the strong tide of emotions welling up from my
+grateful heart! As to your commands in relation to my precious wife; you
+may trust me! Waking or sleeping, I shall never forget them! They are
+burned into my heart, by the intensity of my love for her, by the force
+of my lasting esteem and admiration for you! How can I ever properly
+thank you, my noble benefactor, for your great goodness to me; for your
+supreme confidence in my integrity? In return, I can only ask you to
+accept my pledge, to ever strive to merit that confidence!"
+
+"Do not thank me, my son! Thank Love! Destiny's messenger; who, as a
+reward for your unselfishness, has kindly led you to the goal of your
+present happiness!"
+
+"And you, my beloved daughter! Are you quite happy! May I also
+congratulate you, on having so wisely chosen a husband, who is in every
+way worthy? Do you remember the promise I made to you, on the night of
+my transition? A promise to bring to your side, a friend, a counselor, a
+protector, whose wisdom and integrity, should at all times, prove
+sufficient for the needs of the hour. Are you satisfied, my dear girl?
+Have I faithfully kept my promise?"
+
+"Yes, father! I am more than satisfied! I am a contented woman, I am
+very happy! The quiet delicious calm of my happiness, is a new
+experience for me. Heretofore, I had supposed that happy women must be
+vivacious and voluble, from the very effervescence of their happiness.
+Now I know that it is not so. Your characteristic words of praise, for
+the one I have chosen as a husband, have made me very proud of him and
+deeply grateful to you! In him, I have found the promised friend,
+counselor and protector; also, an ideal lover. But, my dearest, kindest,
+best of fathers; you know very well, that to trust you implicitly, is a
+law of my life! I have always trusted you! Therefore, I am not
+disappointed; neither am I very much surprised. I am just perfectly
+happy. That is the whole story in a nutshell!"
+
+"This is as it should be, my children! When I first saw you, Fillmore, I
+felt intuitively, that you and Fern were made for each other. I knew I
+could trust you together, to finish my work. Now, I rejoice, that my
+intuitions were so prophetic!
+
+"In your work at Solaris Farm, Fillmore, you have succeeded beyond my
+most sanguine hopes. I congratulate you heartily, my son, on this
+initial success for the co-operative movement! This is but the beginning
+of the work. As we go farther, wider fields are opened for more extended
+efforts. You have already correctly surmised, that selfishness in
+humanity has become so dominant, so crystallized, from long centuries
+under the heartless reign of competition, that only a far-reaching, well
+organized, especially designed scheme of education, can conquer the
+evil. By means of this educational program, we shall be able to open the
+eyes of both poor and rich, to the benefits of co-operation.
+
+"It has been wisely and truthfully said, that: 'The destruction of the
+poor, is their poverty. That conversely, the poverty of the poor, is the
+real power of the rich.' In these two short sentences, we have the most
+scathing indictment against present social and industrial conditions,
+that could be made! These conditions are wickedly abnormal! They are
+entirely out of harmony with the law of progress, and of planetary
+evolution! To change them for something better, is the crying need of
+the hour!
+
+"It were a mercy to both rich and poor alike, to make them financially
+independent of each other! Then, freed from the thraldom of selfishness,
+they could discover and appreciate, each for themselves, the true object
+and purpose of human life. For this reason, our new educational
+movement, must be so arranged, that it may successfully appeal to all
+classes.
+
+"For the industrial classes, the agriculturalists and the artisans, we
+can use the co-operative farm movement as a basis of education. As for
+the wealthy remainder, they must first be taught to respect the
+sacredness and the true purpose of human life, before they can
+contemplate any form of social or co-operative progress, with feelings
+other than contempt, or at least angry opposition. This is to be
+expected. It is the natural outgrowth of the teachings of a society,
+which is controlled by the hierarchy of competition. Both the
+co-operative farm and the broader educational movement, are to be
+embraced by the work of the New Crusade.
+
+"The New Crusade, is to be organized, promoted and maintained, for the
+peaceful conquest of poverty; and the consequent banishment of ignorance
+and crime. These grand purposes, shall be emblazoned on its banners,
+appealing to the chivalry and knighthood of the republic for support.
+Never before has the bugle of the crusader, blown the assembly call for
+so noble a cause! Victory for this glorious cause, means a recognition
+of the true nobility of labor: The establishment of peace on earth, and
+happiness for all: An abundant harvest, for all productive toil: The
+sacredness and divine significance of life: The brotherhood of humanity:
+And the solidarity of all social interests. To the victors, shall come
+the well earned plaudits of a thousand future generations; whose sons
+and daughters shall chant the story of the unparalleled chivalry of such
+noble, unselfish deeds!
+
+"To you, my children, is assigned the task and the honor of inaugurating
+this peaceful campaign. From you, it will demand extraordinary activity,
+courage and administrative ability; reinforced by large sums of money.
+Fortunately, the Fenwick fortune is ample. Use it without stint. Fenwick
+Hall, is roomy and well fitted for the headquarters of the New Crusade;
+and for the housing of its organizing staff; which, from the magnitude
+of the work, will be a large one. A bureau of literature must be formed.
+A newspaper and a magazine, devoted to the cause of the Crusade, must be
+published. They must be the best of their kind. The editorial talent
+must be of the highest order, the ablest in the land. Every State in the
+Republic, must be made a department of the Crusade. A select army corps
+of teachers, organizers and leaders, must be assembled, trained and
+thoroughly prepared, to take charge of these departments. They will be
+the executive and recruiting officers of the Crusade; rendering weekly
+reports to the headquarters in Washington. Every co-operative farm, will
+become an outpost and a recruiting station; every State, a grand
+encampment.
+
+"In recruiting crusaders from the ranks of the wealthy, a special effort
+should be made, to have them take up the cause as a fashionable fad.
+They can be diplomatically led, where they cannot be coaxed or driven.
+In the face of any opposition they may display, it must ever be borne in
+mind, that the hearts of nine-tenths of the wealthy, are good and true.
+Their natural promptings are to do right; to use their riches for the
+advancement of science, and for the cause of humanity. They would do
+better, if they only knew how. They must be educated. The competitive
+system, under which they were born, trained and made rich, is at fault.
+By it, they have been taught, that poverty is a necessary and permanent
+state; to which, a large majority of the people of the earth, are
+assigned by the action of a divine law. Therefore, any attempt to banish
+poverty would be not only useless, but actually sinful. Nevertheless,
+prompted by a higher law, many of them annually dispense large sums in
+charity. Under the competitive system, charity only aggravates the
+malady. It is money thrown away! As the recipients are thus enabled to
+work for less wages; increasing the gains of competitive masters; and
+finally, swelling the ranks of the helpless poor. After a few trials,
+even the most persistent alms-giver soon discovers, that as an antidote
+to poverty, charity is a wretched failure. Taking it for granted, that
+the competitive system is a permanent one which is to endure forever, he
+gives up the problem as hopeless.
+
+"It is to be the business of the New Crusade, to show why the
+co-operative should be substituted for the competitive system. It must
+teach the wealthy classes, the vast importance of the great lesson
+taught at Solaris. Namely, that by organized, unselfish co-operation;
+independent self-employment, producing an abundance for all, may be
+speedily and practicably substituted for every form of poverty. The
+Crusade must demonstrate, that ignorance, poverty and crime, are
+handmaidens, which cannot exist apart. That if one-half the money
+expended for charity during the past fifty years, had been used to
+promote co-operative self-employment, poverty, tramps and ignorance,
+would now be things of the past.
+
+"To the people of the republic at large, must be taught the significance
+of the contrast between the war-like competitive system, and the
+peaceful methods of a co-operative association. Co-operation, makes
+combined individual effort, equal to the wealth of independence. The
+co-operator, being self-employed, no longer strives to displace a fellow
+workman by offering service at a lower price.
+
+"Competition, emphasizes the poverty and helplessness of the individual,
+because it sets every man against his neighbor, against the whole world.
+The competitor deliberately shuts himself away from all gain that might
+come to him from the force and effectiveness of associated effort. He
+loses all faith in mankind; in honesty and justice. He views the good
+fortune of a fellow toiler, as a personal injury, which he ought to
+resent. In fact, he becomes too selfish to even be patriotic!
+
+"The quickest way to convince the people of the barbarism, the cruelty,
+and the wickedness of such a system, is to establish a co-operative farm
+in every available township throughout the land. The free, healthy,
+trained, and well-educated social communities, growing up on these
+farms, will become the units of a true society; the underlying
+foundation, on which to build the true republic.
+
+"Society dominates the political expression of nations. It molds and
+controls public opinion, business methods and commercial usage. Under
+the reign of competitive business and society, the market is largely
+composed of small wage earners, whose necessities are so great, whose
+tenure of employment is so uncertain, and whose wages are so scanty;
+that they are forced to buy the cheapest of everything. On the part of
+tradespeople, the fierce competition to control this cheap market,
+encourages the use of an outrageous system of food adulteration, and
+with it, every possible degree of lying, cheating, fraud and deception;
+until the moral tone of both business and society, has become blunted;
+yes, well nigh destroyed. As a result of this shameful state of
+commercial affairs, the successful man in any line of business, can no
+longer afford to be honest. He knows very well, that in competitive
+business, he can utterly ignore honor, conscience, and self-respect,
+without losing the approval of competitive society. Can such a rotten
+society ever become a safe foundation for the government of a true
+republic?
+
+"It is to be the mission of the New Crusade to teach and to demonstrate,
+that under the reign of a co-operative system, and society, these
+conditions would be reversed. All incentives to cheapen goods, or to
+adulterate food products, would vanish. The co-operators would then form
+the bulk of the market. Buying at wholesale collectively, to sell to
+themselves individually; they would be in a financial condition to pay
+remunerative prices, for whatever was genuine, pure, wholesome, good,
+reliable and lasting. Inferior articles, they would not purchase at any
+price. The demand for cheap stuff would cease. The dominant motive of
+the commercial world, would be revolutionized. Among manufacturers and
+producers, the cry would be, not how cheap, but how excellent, can we
+make our goods! The long-practiced, skillful chicanery of competitive
+methods, would be at a discount; they would be worse than useless!
+Honest men could then engage in business, without violating either
+honor, or conscience! Cheating and lying, would no longer form a part of
+the business code! At all times, and under all circumstances, to respect
+the sacredness of life, and the natural rights of man, would become the
+universal watchword! Justice would dethrone charity! The high moral tone
+of the industrial and commercial world, would pervade the social and
+political. The injury of the weakest, would become the concern of the
+strongest. The rising tide of humanitarianism would submerge poverty.
+The fires of ignorance and crime, would be extinguished by its
+conquering flood.
+
+"Than this, no lesson more important, could be taught to the people. The
+scales of selfishness having fallen from their eyes, they can be made to
+understand, that all of these wonderful things may be accomplished,
+quickly and easily, by the plain, practical methods of unselfish
+co-operation. Methods, whose assured results are as easily demonstrable,
+as the solution of a mathematical problem. Once convinced, they will
+make haste to discard the wasteful methods of the competitive system;
+substituting therefor, the co-operative conservation of national wealth.
+In this conservation, the wealth of the unit, will be the measure of the
+wealth of the nation.
+
+"This conservation will usher in a new era, of the means of gathering,
+and of the higher uses of national wealth. A magnificent national fund,
+accumulated for the benefit, education, refinement and enjoyment of all.
+The swiftness of its accumulation and the magnitude of its billions,
+will become the marvel of the world! By contrast, all former standards
+of the wealth of nations, will fade and shrink to insignificance! Why
+must this prove true? Because, under the beneficent reign of
+co-operative equality, money, shorn of its power, would only be valued
+for its use. The store of national wealth, being for the equal use and
+benefit of every individual citizen; the incentive for its accumulation,
+would inspire all alike. As a result, the people as a mass would enjoy
+all the benefits of great wealth, minus its burdens, abuses, temptations
+and dangers. In this, any one of them might be envied by the competitive
+millionaires.
+
+"Among the many lessons in addition to those enumerated, which the
+Crusade must teach to the people; I would strongly emphasize the
+following:
+
+"That human life, as the flower and fruit of the planet--each individual
+being a microcosm of the macrocosm--must always be held as the most
+sacred and the most precious of all things. Because it is the object and
+purpose, the beginning, the expression, the commandment and the
+fulfillment of the law.
+
+"That the law of life and the law of progress, are complements of each
+other. Like twin sisters, they act as a bond between the systems of the
+universe; they embrace all things, from an atom to the Infinite!
+
+"That activity, is the expression of life! Necessity and glory, are the
+two poles of human activity; its inspiration and its motor power!
+
+"It is the evident purpose of natural law, that the activity of man
+shall unceasingly produce for all, an abundance of the necessities,
+comforts and luxuries of life.
+
+"Ignorance, is the giant who bars the pathway of progress! Labor from
+necessity, reigns as a rule, in all ages of ignorance! Misery and
+poverty, are its children!
+
+"Labor for glory, marks the age of enlightened progress, where all may
+have an opportunity to express individuality, through their handiwork;
+to taste the great joy, that comes with the consciousness of
+participation in spontaneous, unselfish, intelligent activity, which
+shall insure the reign of perpetual peace and plenty. In this, man's
+conquest over matter, becomes the true glory of labor! In the variety of
+self-chosen, self-directed, co-operative, productive labor, is found
+life's greatest blessing.
+
+"Organized, unselfish co-operation, will teach the people to appreciate
+the dignity, and the true nobility of labor. From it, they will learn
+that labor, however simple or insignificant, is far nobler than any kind
+of enervating idleness; no matter how much that idleness may be gilded
+by the varnish of honor! Godin says: 'A day's work well done, is worth
+more than a whole existence of inactivity!'
+
+"Labor develops the possibilities of life! It is the effective
+instrument which makes possible the progress of nations, the
+emancipation of peoples! The labor of passing ages has evolved a fund of
+ideas, best adapted to guide humanity towards a true interpretation of
+the object and purpose of human life.
+
+"Labor will cease to be a burden, when man comprehends its true mission.
+Stripped of its drudgery, released from the harness of toil and the spur
+of necessity, the brightness of the blessing of labor shines forth
+resplendent. In the halo of this radiant truth, can anyone be guilty of
+a blasphemy, which degrades labor to the penalty of a punishment.
+
+"The question of politics is intimately associated with the question of
+labor. The science of politics, is the science of life. Government, is
+its expression. Self-government by the individual, is its keynote. The
+study of this science should be pursued by all classes, with the
+enthusiasm born of a religious zeal. A few of its most important
+principles may be found embodied in the following propositions. If we
+wish to be able to take an interest in moral life; we must first satisfy
+the demands of physical life. If we wish to practice justice, we must
+first learn the law of Right and Duty; that is, in striving to satisfy
+our own material wants, we must learn how to protect the rights of
+others. We must remember, that they too are toiling for the same
+purpose.
+
+"In order to protect the welfare of each political unit, these
+principles must form the basis of all scientific politics. In the social
+units evolved by co-operative life, these conditions are embodied and
+expressed. In them, we shall find the basis upon which to build a grand,
+social, industrial and political organization. An organization, which
+shall truly represent Liberty and Justice; which, in its expression as
+a whole, shall be the government of the New Republic!
+
+"Co-operation is the foe of despotism! Associated, intelligent,
+political co-operation, is the educator which shall teach the people,
+that a true republic cannot exist until, in the minds of its leaders,
+every vestige of the spirit of despotism has been cast out.
+
+"In the accomplishment of this great political work, faith in the
+destiny of this republic, its people, and its mission, is to prove a
+most important factor. To endow a people with faith, is to multiply
+their strength tenfold! Faith, reinforced by knowledge, is an
+irresistible force, against which naught can prevail! Hence, it becomes
+imperative, that in each school and kindergarten of the republic, its
+children should be taught in broad outlines, the vastness of its
+territory, and the magnitude of its natural resources.
+
+"I cannot too strongly emphasize the necessity for this important part
+of the political education of children! As the future guardians and law
+makers of the republic, its children should acquire a thorough knowledge
+of the widely diversified characteristics of each geographical
+sub-division. This, they must accomplish, before they can be prepared to
+appreciate the overshadowing significance, of its past, present, and
+future destiny.
+
+"The kindergarten offers perfect conditions, for the introduction of a
+primary course of this political instruction. By using a large outline
+map, showing the geographical and geological formation, the mineral
+deposits, the extent or area of timbered and agricultural lands, the
+manufacturing centers, the principal wagon-roads and lines of
+transportation, the natural trade centers, the population, the schools,
+the chief officers, and the well known political leaders of each
+sub-division; a series of intellectual excursions could be so arranged,
+and made so interesting to the children, that they would soon master
+these statistics, as identified with every State and Territory in the
+Republic. Having finished the subdivisions, attention could then be
+given to a much larger map of the United States, on which the States and
+Territories on a smaller scale, would show the same statistics. From
+this map, the study of the political statistics of the States and
+Territories, by groups, could then be commenced.
+
+"A comparative study of the groups, would be full of interest for the
+children, and would offer a great number of delightful surprises. The
+six groups in natural order, should be classified as follows: The New
+England, the Middle, the Southern States; the States of the great basin
+of the Mississippi Valley, including the imperial State of Texas; the
+Rocky Mountain States, and the States of the Pacific Slope, including
+that remarkable, and only partially explored Territory, Alaska.
+
+"From these group studies, the children may learn many object lessons,
+which might demonstrate to them, the natural supremacy of this republic,
+over other nations. I may mention the following, as noteworthy: The
+Great Lakes of the Middle West; with a coast line of more than three
+thousand miles in length; with an interstate commerce which exceeds in
+tonnage, the combined shipping trade of France and Germany. The
+marvelous capacity of the great agricultural States of the Mississippi
+Valley to become the granary of the world; to furnish its entire food
+supply, of bread, beef and pork. The imperial State of Texas, with its
+wealth of wheat, cane, corn, cotton and cattle; with a domain so wide,
+that it equals in extent, that of Great Britain, European Turkey,
+Switzerland, Denmark and Portugal. Again, passing to the uttermost
+regions of the Great Northwest, we should find the mammoth Territory of
+Alaska, rich in its unexplored forests, mineral deposits and golden
+sands; with a picturesque coast line of fabulous extent, stretching away
+to the North far beyond the Arctic Circle, indented by a multitude of
+romantic bays and inlets, where jutting crags, bold promontories of
+basaltic rock, countless islands, sparkling water and shining glaciers,
+fill the measure of beauty and grandeur.
+
+"Thus educated, the future guardians of the political welfare of the
+republic, would understand the natural wants of its widely separated
+sub-divisions; they would fully appreciate the significance of its
+destiny as a nation. They would always be loyal to the demands of that
+destiny, which should be commensurate with its inexhaustable resources,
+with the magnitude of its domain. A domain so immense, that when
+compared with the countries of the Old World, without counting island
+possessions, or the Territory of Alaska, it exceeds in extent, the
+combined areas of China proper, Japan, Austria, Germany, France, Spain,
+Portugal, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Greece, Denmark, Norway, Sweden,
+Switzerland, Great Britain, and European Turkey. With the hearts of its
+voters inspired by such patriotic teachings, the Republic must endure;
+must fulfill its prophetic destiny! Naught can prevail against it! Not
+even the selfish schemes of a corrupt oligarchy; no matter how boldly
+they plan or how many billions of capital they may control!
+
+"In teaching these things, my children; also in enlarging and perfecting
+the work of the Crusade, I can promise you the support and co-operation
+of the spirit world. The broad outlines, which I have given, will
+suggest the more complete details of the work, which I now leave in your
+hands."
+
+"That thought alone, Mr. Fenwick," said Fillmore, "ought to prove a
+tower of strength to us. May we not make that co-operation more
+effective, by a closer study of the conditions that prevail, and of the
+laws which govern spirit life?"
+
+"Later on my son, that will be advisable. But just at present, it is of
+the utmost importance, that every effort should be made to improve the
+social, industrial, mental and physical condition of mortals, as the
+necessary foundation for true spiritual growth.
+
+"Mental growth must precede the spiritual. Power exercised by the mind
+over the body, in moulding physical structure, multiplies the power of
+the spirit acting on matter, again reacting on both mind and body.
+Consciousness, is spiritual life. To enlarge the sphere of
+consciousness, is to add to spiritual growth. Evolution, is nature's
+effort towards progression. The new spiritual era, which began with the
+last half of the nineteenth century, was marked by a dawning
+consciousness in the mind of man, that he might become a self-directing
+factor in his own evolution. This consciousness in turn, became the
+starting point of spiritual evolution on the mortal plane of existence.
+The last, having been made possible by the first.
+
+"Reasoning from the premises stated, we must logically conclude that the
+embodiment of more mind, of better mind, is a matter of the utmost
+importance to the whole human race. As body and brain are working parts
+of the mind, its machinery of expression; it is equally important, that
+both mind and body should be perfected together. Hence, the necessity
+for better social conditions, more financial independence, less labor,
+more leisure, longer life and larger brain capacity; and finally, as the
+crowning requirement, to be well born! To banish poverty, is to make
+these things possible.
+
+"Before a proper conception of the spiritual world can be entertained by
+mortals, their minds, by the aid of the sciences, must have acquired
+such knowledge of their environments, as shall satisfy the requirements
+of spiritual evolution. Every item of real knowledge thus gained, is
+just so much added preparation towards the understanding of the
+spiritual; towards a harmonious interblending, and co-operation of the
+two worlds. In accordance with the law of progression, truth, to the
+ever changing stages of consciousness, is relative. In order to
+illustrate the relativity of truth, and the magnitude of the domain of
+knowledge in the mortal state, which must be conquered before
+consciousness can be extended beyond the confines of the spiritual; let
+us consider the following, somewhat approximate postulates.
+
+"Let us suppose, that the life of the planet, Earth, embraces all forms
+of life; each individual life pulsating in harmony with the great mother
+heart of the planet.
+
+"Let us suppose, that spirits, both embodied and disembodied, incarnate
+and excarnate, considered as a mass, may act as the terrurgic spiritual
+body and brain of the planet; subjective and responsive to the
+inspiration and guidance of the universal cosmic mind, acting from the
+cosmic center.
+
+"Let us suppose, that the material world, with the atom as its smallest
+unit, is the medium of mortal existence. Again, that the impalpable
+ether of the interstellar spaces, is the medium of existence for the
+spiritual world. And again, as a measure of the fineness of ether, that
+the difference between an ether particle and an atom, should be as wide
+as the difference between the atom and the planet.
+
+"Considering these posits as a basis for comparing life in the two
+realms, we at once perceive that life, organized to correspond with the
+coarse meshes of the material plane of existence, can be permeated,
+filled and quickened, by organized spiritual life, without disturbing
+the unity of either organization. The interblending of spirit and
+matter, is accomplished. The mystery of the dual existence of soul and
+body, is explained. The soul in the body, yet, not of the body! The
+permanent and the enduring, mated with the changing and the ephemeral!
+The cell life of the physical, with the soul life of the eternal!
+
+"In comparing the two states of existence, the physical with the
+spiritual, we find the horizon of consciousness in the former, is
+vaguely defined and very much limited; while in the latter, it is
+sharply defined and widely extended. The more we study and compare, the
+more readily we understand, that space, duration, size, minuteness,
+solidity and porosity, are all relative terms which depend for their
+significance entirely on the standpoint of consciousness. So apparent is
+this fact, that we soon learn how impossible it is for the mortal mind
+to understand, even the more simple elements of spirit life, until the
+dual or spiritual mind, with its consciousness, has grown and unfolded
+to the required extent. Hence, growth of consciousness, is growth of
+spirit; the spirit which molds and controls matter.
+
+"Self-conscious consciousness, is the immortal ego! As a part of the
+progressive, all inclusive, spiritual life of the planet, it takes part
+in the evolution and progression of the mass. This mass, in the
+fulfillment of the purpose of existence, is subjective and responsive to
+cosmic law, and to cosmic inspiration.
+
+"In these postulates, we have the key which unlocks the mystery of life.
+We catch a glimpse of its true meaning, purpose, glory and grandeur.
+They raise the theory and practice of human progress to a question of
+the first magnitude; to a science of life, which demands the attention
+of every student. The school of human life, lies at the base of the
+curiculum of knowledge. It becomes the foundation of spiritual progress,
+as well. Hence, the importance of rightly cultivating the mind, of
+extending its consciousness to the uttermost limits of human capacity.
+
+"Selfishness and despotism, are frowning barriers across the pathway of
+human progress. They thrive by war. War, is the foe of spirituality, the
+mother of murder! War must be abolished, before man can hope for true
+spiritual evolution! It is the fortunate destiny of this republic, to
+lead the race in a crusade against it; to open the way for its final
+abolition. It is to be the province of the Crusade to teach the people,
+that war has been the scourge of humanity since the beginning of the
+historical era; the greatest crime ever perpetrated against the
+sacredness of human life! Peace, multiplies the products of labor.
+Labor, is the genius of life! War, destroys the laborer and his product.
+War is the genius of death! War, is a symbol of barbarism; it is both
+the throne and the refuge of despotism. For the purpose of maintaining
+despotism, people for centuries have been subjected to the hard
+conditions of unremitting toil, that they might endure the fatigues of
+war without a murmur. For the same reason, despots have kept the masses
+in ignorance, lest they should discover the true quality of justice; the
+moral law, which condemns both despotism and war; lest they should come
+to realize all the horrors of the most outrageous crime possible to the
+conception of human reason; the crime of war! War is such an
+overwhelming calamity, that it is almost impossible to estimate the ruin
+and the destruction which it has wrought! If the millions of lives and
+the billions of treasure spent in the world's wars, had been employed in
+protecting the people, in generating, rearing, sustaining and developing
+them to the highest attainable point, this earth would now witness a
+social millennium; where peace and prosperity, high culture and
+harmonious brotherhood, would reign supreme!
+
+"I rejoice, that I am permitted to prophesy its downfall! Long before
+the close of the twentieth century, standing armies will disappear; war
+will be at an end; the angel of peace will spread her white wings over
+all the nations of the earth! This Crusade, is the beginning of the end!
+For the encouragement of our Crusaders, I will indicate two causes,
+acting from opposite directions, which will serve to hasten war's
+dissolution.
+
+"First: The competitive system, for centuries, has been war's chief
+recruiting office. Under its reign, in the fierce struggle for
+existence, it has kept up a perpetual warfare between man and man;
+always the stronger against the weaker. When vanquished, the weaker as a
+last resort, could and did, enlist as a soldier. Thanks to the
+co-operative farm, spread broadcast by the Crusade; the early
+substitution of the co-operative, for the competitive system, will make
+the weak strong; make them financially independent! Soldiering as a
+trade, is made possible by poverty! Whenever a people are emancipated
+from the cringing slavery of want, naturally averse to being
+slaughtered, they will rise en masse, and refuse to be apprenticed to
+the brutal trade of killing their kind. Thus it will happen, that armies
+will melt away and disappear, for the want of fighting men!
+
+"Second: Strange as it may appear, the inventors of mighty engines of
+war, of terrible explosives, of deadly missiles, each in turn, more
+horribly destructive than the others; are all envoys of peace; that
+sweet peace, which shall bring rest, renewed energy, and swift progress,
+to all classes. Through the multiplied and combined efforts of these
+inventors, the bloody and barbarous art of war, is fast becoming so
+suicidal, and so financially disastrous to the nations of the earth who
+have the misfortune to engage in it; that such as wish to preserve a
+national existence, must do so by making haste to ally themselves with
+the friends of universal peace, through international arbitration.
+
+"Under such circumstances, the nations of the earth, ground between the
+inexorable, upper and lower millstones of the first and second cause,
+acting under pressure of self-preservation, will, with one accord, join
+in covenanting for a total disarmament, and a perpetual peace. All
+hail, the glad day!
+
+"Then, will dawn man's era of true spiritual evolution! Then, will the
+true object and purpose of life, be understood! Then, will the
+sacredness of human life, be rightly conceived, appreciated, maintained
+and respected! Then, wholesale murder, no longer sanctioned by man-made
+laws, it will be possible to banish the spirit of murder from the life
+of the individual! Then, the lesser crimes, the demons of despotic
+selfishness, greed, cruelty, and lust for power, which now clog progress
+and prevent the realization of a practical brotherhood for humanity, can
+be shaken off and rendered harmless!
+
+"Then, the emancipated legions of toilers, will rise to a true
+understanding of the blessing of labor as the real expression of life;
+that the glory of labor, is man's conquest over matter; that food,
+shelter, raiment, and sustenance for body, mind and soul, are the
+essential elements of life; a natural equipment for the conquest! Then,
+it will be the province of a natural religion to teach the people how to
+help themselves! how to master the great problem of physical life, by
+attaining the greatest perfection in feeding, clothing, housing,
+educating, and spiritualizing humanity!
+
+"Then, the solidarity of the spiritual welfare of mankind, will equal
+that of the physical! Then, the measure of spiritual progress achieved
+by the mass, will be the measure of progress attained by its weakest
+unit! Then, will come perfect co-operation, between the spiritual and
+the physical! Then, will come the reign of liberty and justice, the
+guardian spirits of a true republic! Then, will come the social, the
+industrial, and the spiritual millennium! Then, the barriers of
+selfishness will have been burned away; the two worlds will be united;
+in the new atmosphere of brotherly love, spirit and mortal may
+harmoniously walk, talk, and work together for the perfection of the
+race!
+
+"Then, the great armies of the world, no longer in the guise of
+organized barbarism, or a tax on the industries of the nations, will be
+converted into armies of peace, engaged in the production of real
+wealth! Then, the heretofore undreamed of store of public wealth, will,
+in its proper distribution, give to all mankind, the acme of universal
+education, civilization and happiness!"
+
+
+
+
+CONCLUSION.
+
+
+Born leaders of a progressive age; filled with the inspiration of one
+great purpose in life; at all times, equal to the demands of the hour;
+hand in hand, with hearts united by the bonds of a supreme love; nobly
+unselfish, and spiritually refined; generous, handsome, accomplished;
+wealthy, eloquent and magnetic; Fillmore and Fern, our hero and heroine,
+were everywhere recognized as a commanding force in the social and
+political world. A force which quickly overcame all opposing obstacles.
+They were so much interested, and so absorbed in the ever increasing
+success of the Crusade, that the happy months and years flew swiftly by.
+Their devotion to each other, was a potent charm which begat in the
+hearts of a legion of admiring followers, an intense loyalty to them,
+and to the banner of the Crusade, which had led them to so many
+victories in the cause of humanity.
+
+The second decade of the century was throbbing with the birth of
+epoch-making events. The astrological forces seemed in conjunction with
+planetary evolution. The time was ripe for the incoming wave of a new
+social era. The spirit of progress was brooding in the air; stirring in
+the hearts of the people, who hailed the Crusaders as blessed evangels
+of the new life, for which they had yearned and prayed so many years.
+The gospel of the new life, was the gospel of co-operative labor. The
+wonderful strength and effectiveness of the co-operative farm movement,
+to lift the laborer from conditions of ignorance and poverty, to those
+of financial independence, comfort and refinement; was practically
+demonstrated, a thousand times over. To the people, each demonstration
+was an ever growing source of astonishment and delight. The enthusiasm
+aroused, burning with the fires of a religious zeal, irresistibly drew
+them into the ranks of this powerful organization. With rapidly
+increasing numbers, it swept over the land with the force and fury of a
+great tidal wave! In its track, on the ruins of the competitive system,
+there was established, the reign of co-operative peace and plenty, the
+social and political millennium.
+
+Among the leaders of the Crusade, assembled at Washington, George and
+Gertrude Gerrish were especially prominent. To them was assigned the
+task of organizing the lecturing or missionary bureau of the Crusade;
+its trained force of traveling educators. The good work accomplished by
+this force, was another well earned tribute to their extraordinary skill
+as organizers. As well fitted for the responsible duties; George Gaylord
+and Honora Eloise Houghton, having become inseparable friends, engaged
+lovers, and finally a well-mated, conjugal couple; were placed in
+charge of the traveling educators on the Pacific Slope. So eloquently
+and effectively did they labor in this wide field, that throughout its
+length and breadth, they became very popular, winning hosts of friends
+for themselves and the cause.
+
+Solaris Farm and village, the working center of the movement, soon
+doubled many times, its territory and population. It became an important
+manufacturing center, which made an ideal home for the National
+Co-operative Farm School; a normal school, which every year graduated
+teachers by the score. The history of Solaris as the initial farm made
+it so famous, that thousands of enthusiastic co-operators annually visit
+it. It is the business of the reception committee appointed by the
+normal school, to receive, entertain and instruct these visitors.
+
+Gilbert Gerrish, true to his arisen sweetheart, and to his own peculiar
+purpose in life; declined to leave Solaris, with his parents. Indeed, he
+was so universally beloved by its young people, that they could not, and
+would not give him up! To the visiting stranger, he seems by far the
+most popular and the most highly honored young man in the village. This
+distinguished consideration, he has rightfully and honestly earned.
+Happy himself, in generously using his rare gifts for making other
+people happy!
+
+Thus endeth the story of Solaris Farm. May its purposes haunt the minds
+of its readers, like the memories of some prophetic dream, which may not
+be obliterated, which can not be forgotten.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+A FEW POINTERS FROM THE PEN OF THE REVIEWER.
+
+
+Solaris Farm is the title of a new book "with a purpose." In fact it is
+a book with many purposes. While the author writes intelligently and
+forcefully upon stirpiculture, education, invention, hygiene,
+sanitation, moral, physical and mental growth and culture, and injects
+many new, beautiful and practical thoughts into each of these subjects,
+his chief theme is unselfish co-operation, his chief purpose is to
+exhibit the benefits, moral, physical, social and financial, that will
+be showered upon the human family when they become wise enough to cease
+competing with each other, and progressive enough to begin co-operating.
+
+The story is the logical development of the following situation:
+
+Fern Fenwick, an heiress to a vast estate, had promised her father
+before his death to use a good share of the Fenwick millions in
+bettering the condition of the race. Her first experiment is a
+co-operative farm of about five thousand acres, whereon about two
+hundred and fifty families settle and work out the many problems which
+the author desires to discuss.
+
+In all of these operations she has the able assistance of Fillmore
+Flagg, a farmer's son, who, having seen his father and dozens of his old
+neighbors crushed in spirit and broken in fortune by the resistless
+trend of events under the competitive system with all its waste of
+misdirected energy, has become disgusted with the meager results of farm
+work and having by great energy obtained a practical education has
+determined to do something for the alleviation of the miseries of a
+competition crushed society.
+
+He meets Fern Fenwick and is by her employed to superintend the
+co-operative farm.
+
+A very pretty little love story, which the author has told with pleasant
+humor, is the result of their meeting, but the weightier themes with
+which the book is filled are likely to more fully engross the attention
+of the reader.
+
+Co-operative ventures have usually been founded upon some "ism," and
+were held together by its religious or other influence. In the Solaris
+Farm colony a very comprehensive scheme of insurance against accident,
+poverty, sickness and old age is the binding principle. The premium is
+the profit which the co-operators collectively make by producing what
+they want (or by buying at wholesale what they cannot produce) and
+selling the same to themselves individually at regular market rates. The
+excellence of their wares attract many purchasers from the outside and
+the profits resulting therefrom also tend to swell the insurance fund of
+the co-operators.
+
+All kinds of business, and manufacturing are carried on by the
+co-operators in addition to farming. Co-operative thinking solves the
+knottiest problems for the colony, invention flourishes and, once
+started, money flows into their coffer at a fairly satisfactory rate.
+
+Co-operation is the key-word, the essence, the very soul of Solaris
+Farm. All the successes achieved by the characters that people the book
+are the results of co-operative working, thinking and saving. Every
+stockholder lends a hand, and lo! the hours of labor are short and
+delightful; when a disagreeable task must be done, co-operative thinking
+invents a machine which does the work better than a man could do it; the
+dignity of toil is established on a sure foundation, and the statement
+that "muscular effort is a mental demonstration," is verified.
+
+"Will it pay?" is sometimes called "the American question." In Solaris
+Farm the author has successfully undertaken to present an unselfishness
+that will pay--not in the fairy gold of a far-off Heaven, but in the
+coin of the realm, here and now. Leisure for study and recreation;
+books, pictures, objects of beauty and art; better health; longer life;
+the society of delightful people none of whom are competing for the
+lion's share, but all of whom are co-operating for the benefit of the
+community; absence of the fear of poverty; certainty of support in
+sickness and old age;--all these and thousands of other comforts are
+some of the certain wages of unselfishness.
+
+A feature of Solaris Farm which will commend itself to every well-wisher
+of the race is the high estimate which the author places on humanity.
+Man, he says, is the flower and fruit of the planet, its highest and
+best product. To arrive at the highest point possible in his evolution,
+it is necessary for him to be well born and this necessitates happy,
+healthy, prosperous parents and proper environments. To follow out this
+idea to its logical conclusion would be to repeat the author's
+arguments, for he has completely filled the field. The reader is
+referred to the story for the facts proving that unselfish co-operation
+will furnish everything needful for the complete unfoldment of the now
+almost dormant possibilities of human nature.
+
+The pursuit of happiness and the hope of its ultimate possession is the
+motor which induces all human endeavor. No act is ever done except in
+obedience to this law of our nature which compels us to seek pleasure.
+Ignorance of the nature of true pleasure has led us after many a
+will-o'-the-wisp, and our unlearned race has soiled its garments many
+times in error, commonly called "sin." "Sinful pleasures," against which
+our parents, the clergy, and all moral philosophers have warned us, do
+not exist. _There is no pleasure in sin._ Our race beliefs, based upon
+untruth and ignorance, have bequeathed us a heritage of appetites,
+passions and desires which are wrong, and hurtful when gratified.
+
+Among the most hurtful of race beliefs is the fixed idea that labor is a
+curse. Nothing could be further from the truth. As has been aptly said:
+"Art is the expression of a man's joy in his work." Labor--muscular
+exertion, having a definite productive object--is a blessing and a joy
+when the worker is in love with his work. Work is a curse only under the
+competitive system, which by its wasteful methods extends the hours of
+toil beyond the limits of endurance, robs the worker of the full
+benefits of his labor and gives him no time for self-improvement. The
+experience of the stockholders of Solaris Farm shows how the ancient
+curse was removed by unselfish co-operation, and labor crowned with the
+dignity that is its due.
+
+While Solaris Farm was not intended as a propaganda of spiritualism,
+that cult has been introduced with considerable dramatic effect for two
+apparent reasons. The first and least important of these reasons is to
+cater to the ever-growing taste of the reading public for the occult;
+but the second reason is peculiar to the book. In discussing man as the
+most valuable product of the planet, and the relation which the soul
+bears to the body, it became necessary to approach the subject from the
+view-point of one who is in nowise affected by the petty altercations,
+jealousies and strifes of the world; one who knows by experience all the
+hardships of life and its many temptations, but who has also progressed
+beyond the sphere of their influence. The most natural and obvious way
+of obtaining this coveted point of observation was to let the spirit of
+such a noble character as Fennimore Fenwick speak from the fulness of
+his experience, both as mortal and spirit, of the needs of the race, the
+curse of competition, the value of proper environmental conditions for
+perfect motherhood, pre-natal education and adequate training of mind
+and body, such as may not be secured even by the most wealthy in the
+present condition of society, but which would be the heritage of every
+individual in a co-operative community. The utterances of Fennimore
+Fenwick rank with the best thought on these subjects and no person can
+read them without having implanted in his breast a higher regard for his
+race, and a greater solicitude for the material and spiritual unfoldment
+of humanity.
+
+For many years, orators and agitators have vied with each other in
+proclaiming that capital and labor were the two factors of financial
+success. They were and still are mistaken. Within the pages of Solaris
+Farm the reader is given the true formula, which may be algebraically
+stated thus: "Capital + Labor + Brains = Financial Success." Financial
+Success, however is not the complete product of these factors when
+selfishness, greed and wasteful competition are eliminated from the
+equation by the substitution of unselfish co-operation. The happy result
+of the experiment at Solaris Farm must convince the reader of the
+correctness of the formula and the value of the substitution.
+
+In considering the broad field covered by this attractive book; its wide
+departure from the mission of the ordinary novel, its probable use as a
+text-book of advanced thought on true socialism, progressive
+co-operation, a new order of political economy and the ways and means of
+making colony life desirable, successfully coherent, self-supporting and
+practically delightful; the price of Solaris Farm (50 cts, in paper
+covers, $1.25 in cloth binding) will commend itself to the purchaser as
+not only reasonably moderate, but also if he be an interested reader,
+with business intentions, that the large end of the bargain is very much
+in his favor.
+
+Solaris Farm was written by Captain Milan C. Edson, whose military title
+was earned during the great Civil War. He was a farmer and the son of a
+farmer. He enlisted as a private soldier and without influence rose to a
+captaincy by merit and bravery alone. He is a profound thinker, a lover
+of his race and has given many years to the study of social and
+political questions. It has been his desire to found a community where
+his ideas of true success might be wrought out, as an object lesson to
+the world, of the advantages of unselfishness. This pleasure having been
+denied him, he has incorporated his leading ideas in Solaris Farm, in
+the hope that some one more fortunate than himself may be able to
+receive the blessings which must inevitably flow from such a noble life.
+
+
+
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