93 



periment than a source of revenue, we return the figures 

 and observations above as a basis for future calculations. 

 A more precise idea of the actual status of the business 

 can better be gained from a comparison of the expense 

 and income at different periods throughout the year. The 

 figures are. as nearly as possible, correct, and show the 

 progress as well as the condition of affairs now existing: 



From Feb. 14 to May 20, the expenses were $522.59, 

 while during the same period the amount of rebate and 

 commissions was only $233.43, or expenses more than 

 double the income. From May 20 to Sept. 1. expenses 

 were $486.60, and rebate and commission, $314.85, or ex- 

 penses a little more than one-third over the total income. 

 From Sept. 1 to Dec. 1, the expenses amount to 8412.12, 

 and the income from rebate and commission is $497.31, 

 showing a balance of income during those three last 

 months of $85.19, — certainly a decided gain and a decided 

 snow of progress. The figures here given, it will be un- 

 derstood, are exclusive of the State Agent's salary. As 

 we progress there appears a consequent reduction of 

 expenditures and an increased amount of income, which 

 in due time will bring the business of the Agency to a 

 self-sustaining, and, it might be said, paying, point. 



However, to obtain such a result, sacrifices of many 

 sorts are still demanded, and the good will of all Patrons 

 and perfect harmony and co-operation with the State 

 Grange is necessary. In this connection, we cannot too 

 strongly impress upon your honorable body the import- 

 ance of placing practical men at the helm for the direc- 

 tion of your affairs, for it is now an established fact, that 

 wherever there has been practical men in the Grange to 

 direct its business features, it has shown itself ecmal to the 

 task. But wherever all business transactions that have 

 grown out of the organization have been entrusted to im- 

 practical men, the cause has been injured, the Grange has 

 sickened, and in many instances has died bevond resur- 

 rection. 



