154 THE GROUNDSWELL. 



reform and purification should consent to be longer in the 

 leading-strings of political tricksters and demagogues, who 

 have bartered their trusts for money. In fact, this Order 

 proposes to invite office-seekers to back seats, while the 

 people shall seek and designate their servants. 



The Order is no respecter of persons, color, sects, or sexes, 

 but has reference most positively to character, declining to 

 admit drunkards, gamblers, professional politicians, or those 

 whose pursuits or associations place them antagonistic to 

 farm interests. 



The Order means business, and will labor to bring the 

 greatest good to the greatest number. Some of its general 

 objects may be stated as follows, viz. : 



1st. The ennoblement of labor, and the fraternity of the 

 producing classes. 



2d. Mutual instruction, and the lightening of labor by 

 diffusing a better knowledge of its aims. 



3d. Social culture, as also mental and moral develop 

 ment. 



4th. Mutual relief in sickness and adversity. 



5th. The prevention of litigation. 



6th. Prevention of cruelty to animals. 



7th. Bringing more nearly together the producer and 

 consumer. 



8th. The overthrow of the credit system. 



9th. Building up and fostering our home industries. 



10th. Mutual protection to husbandmen against sharpers 

 and middle-men. 



