Wants to Follow Watson’s Pen.
L. A. Benson, Clay Center, Kan.
I write to inquire as to the truth or falsity of the rumor that you have severed your connection with the Magazine which bears your name. I have been a voting Prohibitionist since 1885. I bought the first issue of “Tom Watson’s” and read it, and have hungered for its appearance ever since. I have read every line of Editorial and other matter which came from your pen. I was beginning to think myself so much of a Populist that I could “keep step.” From 1894 until 1901 I lived in Philadelphia, Pa., and judging the Populists from the caricatures appearing in Eastern papers I felt surprised to find that I have all along possessed just such views as constitute the essence of Populism. I find myself unwilling to give up the opportunity to follow your pen. I will regard it as a matter of genuine kindness to me if you will put me in connection with the Magazine which takes your copy and spreads it among your many disciples and admirers. I regard the work which you are doing as fundamental, and I am aware that you, like all leaders in reforms which touch the money-king, will suffer. If it be in the power of “Old Plute” to crucify you, he will not be too tender. He will not be lacking in heartless cruelty. But while you are bidding high for the hate and vengeance of “Old Plute” you are winning the glorious title of “friend” and “brother” to those who are crushed ’neath the heel of this heartless, greedy foe. To oppose him and to stand the loving helper of men, is to trace the footsteps of the Man of Galilee, up a modern Calvary. In plain language, it is the essence of pure and undefiled religion. Here’s my hand, brother, and may God bless and prosper you.