"Many people justify stealing from their employer — from the government — from the insurance company, by thinking, 'Other people do it, why shouldn't I?' Or 'If I don't do it, others will,' or 'They can afford it. They won't even miss it.' But these people are just as deadly to our society as the hardened criminal who cashes bad checks or pulls a gun. For they are not really stealing from their company or from the government or from the insurance company, oh no. They are stealing from their brother and sister — from their fellow human beings. Because business must figure in these losses as part of the cost of doing business, the price of their products or services must increase accordingly to all the people who avail themselves of these goods or services.
"Thefts from government, for example, must eventually mean higher taxes. So you see, any form of stealing, whether by a hardened criminal with a gun, or by a clever employee falsifying records, serves only to weaken the entire economy. Government funding of research for projects that are of interest only to a few is also a form of stealing, unless, of course, the results of that research will ultimately benefit the many. Gross inefficiency, through lack of concern — all these things are forms of stealing. The greedy and the selfish who indulge in these activities serve themselves at the expense of their fellows. What they fail to see is that their gains are temporary — they will eventually pay the price. One cannot take from another, or hurt another in any way, without eventually taking from oneself — for all are one."
"Well now, George," said President Lincoln, "I realize that this is all very interesting and a very important topic. But we must be watching the time." He turned to Dorothy, smiling. "You must excuse George. He really gets carried away at times. He would talk all day if we let him."
President Washington placed his hands on his hips, pretending to be indignant. "Listen to who's talking," he said. He whispered loudly into Dorothy"s ear so everyone else could hear: "He only wants me to stop talking so he can talk."
"Now, now boys," interceded President Jackson. "No bickering in front of our guests. Presidents are supposed to be dignified."
President Lincoln turned to Dorothy. "I'm afraid all presidents like to hear the sound of their own voices. It's a built-in trait of all politicians and actors."
"Well, I think that's part of the charm of both politicians and actors," said Dorothy. "Most seem to have very vibrant speaking voices."
"If you have any more questions," said President Jackson, "we can talk as we walk to the meeting."
"Well," said Dorothy. "I was wondering which political party is the best for our country, Republican or Democrat?"
President Jackson chuckled. "Well now, the answer to that would depend on which president you talk to. But perhaps you'd like to hear what President Lincoln has to say on that subject. I'm sure he's most anxious to answer this one."