d 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
welfar