THE GOLDEN RULEsecured to the fullest extent by cooperation and giving to
each the reward it deserves. The capitalist and the laborer must
clasp hands across the bottomless pit into which so much
wealth and work has been cast.
How this reconciliation is to be effected is a question
that is occupying the minds of many wise and good men on
both sides at the present time. Wise and impartial legislation
will, no doubt, be an important agent in restraining blind
passion and protecting all classes from insatiable greed; and it
is the duty of every man to use his best endeavors to secure
such legislation both in state and national governments. Or-
ganizations of laborers for protecting their own rights and
securing a better reward for their labor, will have a great influ-
ence. That influence will continue to increase as their temper
becomes normal and firm, and their demands are based on
justice and humanity.
Violence and threats will effect no good. Dynamite,
whether in the form of explosives or the more destructive
force of fierce and reckless passion, will heal no wounds nor
subdue any hostile feeling. Arbitration is, doubtless, the wis-
est and most practicable means now available to bring about
amicable relations between these hostile parties and secure
justice to both. Giving the laborer a share in the profits of the
business has worked well in some cases, but it is attended with
great practical difficulties which require more wisdom, self-
control, and genuine regard for the common interests of both
parties than often can be found. Many devices may have a
partial and temporary effect. But no permanent progress can
be made in settling this conflict without restraining and finally
removing its cause.
Its real central cause is an inordinate love of self and the
world, and that cause will continue to operate as long as it
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