"That is Socialism" August 3, 1895.

*THE WORKER*

BRISBANE,  AUGUST 3, 1895.

"That is Socialism."

Were this the charter of our State

“On pain o'hell be rich and great”

Damnation then would be our fate

Beyond remead,

But, thanks to heaven, that's no' the gate

We learn our cread.

For thus the royal mandate ran

When first the human race began,

The social, friendly “honest man,”

Whate'er he be,

“Tis he fulfils great Nature's plan,

And none but he.

                                                                            BURNS.

A few words to those who are wavering in their support of Socialism. I would ask them - “ Do you know the reason men are so avarious?” It is a question that comes home to us all in a most forcible manner. We are told by our enemies that it is “human nature;” but don't you believe it. It is a “Tozer.” If the cause were removed, the effect would fall; but to be more plain – If you were sure, beyond doubt, that in your old age you would not be looked upon with scorn as a pauper, that all the necessaries and comforts of life would be yours as a right – as the right of every honest citizen; that your sons and your daughters would be fed, clothed, educated, and accomplished as a right; that if your child had the abilities of a Shakespeare, or a Burns, or a hundred others that could be named, that child's mind and intellect would be fed on the best and purest literature of the day, and that his name would shine as those jewels whose lustre shall lighten the paths of men yet unborn; if you knew your daughters would not be driven by the thrice accursed system of sweating to starvation and dishonour, don't you think your craving for gain would be appeased? Would you not say, “I am beyond the fear of want, my old age will be honourable, my children will be provided for, and I am content in the knowledge that those things are mine as a right?” That is Socialism.   C. W.