Every word sent to the printers (alas! not yet Esperantists) has to be typewritten, and, even after that, proof correcting demands much care. Almost invariably serious errors escape the author’s attention, and often the vigilance of the Editor also.
I trust that, in the future, all errors will disappear. But, once again, I beg my readers to excuse them, should they be present.
I now am able to present to the world a practical proof of the vitality, facility and spread of the International Language. In all parts of the world The Esperantist has subscribers entirely without any common language other than Esperanto.
Our clever writers can, by its means, send their beautiful, original or translated thoughts into every country. Advertisers can rely on the International Language to gain a universal market for their goods. All can become acquainted one with the other.
To-day I am very, but not altogether, content. On account of the reception of The Esperantist one of my ambitions is fulfilled. I will now tell you of another!
Among the fine literature already possessed by Esperantists in vain have I sought one volume of sufficiently attractive appearance. Books merely readable are, indeed, excellent; but do they suffice?
Suppose, for example, that one buys the indispensable Fundamental Chrestomathy. Its cost, according to English standard, is not too high; and one is pleased to possess the 460 interesting pages. But does the cost always end there? One finds that, as an Englishman, one cannot fully enjoy reading a paperback. One must therefore spend money on having it bound. That increases its cost by some shillings. Then, some years later, when the book has become a valuable reminder of the language’s early days, will one be pleased to discover that its paper has turned yellow; has become foxed.
The answer I leave to the Esperantists.
It is necessary that some presentable books, well printed on good paper, and in a nice cover, should exist. On this account I intend to bring out several useful works. It is still too early to expect that the sale will cover their expenses; but their publication will help the Cause.
The first of The Esperanto Gems will be Shakespeare’s "Tempest," translated by our most able Esperantist, Mr. Motteau. First edition, illustrated, gilt top, prettily bound in soft green leather [suitable for presentation]. Price 2s. 1d., post free.