THE NEW ERA IN POLITICS 269 



agency as the farm loan board, which is now hniited 

 in its advances to existing farmers. And in those 

 countries which have developed the farm colony, the 

 buyer is given from thirty to fifty years in which to 

 pay for his purchase. His interest rate is from 4 to 

 5 per cent., which includes an annual payment for 

 the amortization of the loan. In this way the 

 farmer is relieved of the fear of foreclosure; he is 

 free from the tyranny of the local banker, who is 

 too often in collusion with the distant miller, ware- 

 houseman, speculator or food exchange. Cheap 

 credit also permits of the purchase of machinery, of 

 modern equipment and the buying of good stock, 

 seeds, and other accessories to modern farming. 



The farm colony is planned in all its details as is 

 the garden city. There is provision for education 

 and recreation. The houses are reasonably close 

 together. There are stores, schools, telephones, and 

 other accessories of modern life. Materials and sup- 

 plies are bought in quantities, which reduces the 

 cost. Co-operation is provided in buying and selling. 

 Marketing is made easy, and the farmer is protected 

 by the state in the marketing of his crops. The 

 farm colony aims at the creation of a self-contained 

 life, with as many of the advantages and pleasures 

 which the city offers as possible. 



Five — finally the means of distribution must be 

 socialized. The story of Australia and Denmark 

 indicate the extent to which railroads become an 



