"Let the government start a large scale federal and state works project to improve these lands, so that they will not only be made productive but also accessible.
"Let it start an era of colonization, by generously financing on easy terms all young couples or idle families. Homesteads should be granted to them under competent supervision. These steps will help to develop happy, independent, prosperous families, as well as ultimately enrich, and increase prosperity in the entire nation.
"As we braced ourselves to win the second World war, so can we muster our resources if we wish, to do away with the outdated system of want and charity. Coute qui coute (cost what it may). The reason I am repeating the words want and charity so often is that I want to strongly impress upon your mind the seriousness of my argument. Whether the job is done by my plan or any other plan, we can and must make an end to these conditions.
"Unemployment compensation payments, enough for a livelihood, should be made and continued until everyone has a living wage job. If necessary, our government should keep up large public works of constructive improvement all over the nation."
Writing down his name and address and giving it to me, he said, "I want to thank you for your treat. I can tell you more of my ideas, but it would keep us here for many more hours. It is getting late and I have to be on my way. If you can write me, I will be glad to meet you again and continue our discussion."
I put a five dollar bill in his hand, but with tears in his eyes, he proudly returned it. "I must have bored you with my lengthy discourse," he apologized.
I answered, "On the contrary, I have learned a great deal, and I thank you for all the information and suggestions." We shook hands, and said good night.
"His conversation gave me more cause for my sadness; I was distressed to hear of the neglect of our aged people. I felt ashamed of our mistreatments to the disabled, crippled, and blind.
"During the slow traffic hours in the New York subways, on the sidewalks, and on this parkway I have closely observed many middle-aged people with their deformed bodies, swollen legs, and flabby, loose-skinned masks of faces. All of them in youth must have had natural beauty. All over the country, inside and outside of bars and saloons, in slums, in parks, and in alleys, you will find many aged, middle-aged and even young people who are listless.
"It is unbelievable and shameful that in this country, in our age, with our phenomenally abundant resources, such conditions should exist.