to do, or what
to ask."[5]

This was a point of view which in its relation to the degraded elements
of society was an expression of sympathy rather than of harsh criticism
and mistrust. Although it had been set forth by others previously, it
had never before forced itself so strongly on the public. In addition,
the daring statements and bold theories, given utterance in "Darkest
England," served to surprise all schools of reform. The public
consciousness had never before faced the problem in such a way. It was
aroused, and began to ask questions. The book ran through edition after
edition. It was printed in a cheap form and within a short time was
circulated all over the civilized world.

In his "scheme" General Booth laid down seven fundamental principles,
which he claimed were essential to success. They were as follows:

1. The first principle that must be bore in mind, as governing every
scheme that may be put forward, is that it must change the man, when it
is his character and conduct which constitute the reasons for his
failure in the battle of life.

2. The remedy, to be effectual, must change the circumstances of the
individual, when they are the cause of his wretched condition, and lie
beyond his control.

3. Any remedy worthy of consideration must be on a scale commensurate
with the evil with which it proposes to deal.

4. Not only must the scheme be large enough, but it must be permanent.

5. But while it must be permanent, it must be made practicable.

6. The indirect features of the scheme must not be such as to produce
injury to the persons whom we seek to benefit.

7. While assisting one class of the community, it must not seriously
interfere with the interests of another.[6]

General Booth's personal attitude, also, is well worth noting. In the
preface of his book he makes the following statement:

"I do not claim that my scheme is either perfect in its details, or
complete in the sense of being adequate to combat all forms of
gigantic evils, against which it is, in the main, directed. Like
other human things, it must be perfected through suffering; but it
is a sincere endeavor to do something, and to do it on principles,
which can be instantly applied and universally developed."[7]

And again, in view of some of the manifestations of the organization as
we see it, the following is interesting, as coming from its founder. He
says: "But one of the grimmest social