THE ECONOMIC FACTORS 



133 



The consumer is already buying his milk at a low price as 

 compared with many other foods, and if he wishes a clean milk 

 he must expect to pay more in the future than he does at present, 



FIG. 20. RELATIVE RETAIL PRICES, 1890-1915 

 Milk and Five Staple Foods 



unless a more economical method of production and distribution 

 can be installed. 



Another Aspect 



Such considerations strongly support the case of the 

 farmer. Still, they require some qualification. The 

 matter has another side which we have not yet con- 

 sidered. It is well put by Mr. Kelly (italics inserted) : 



The dairy farmer himself is not blameless. Sometimes his 

 business is carried on in a wasteful, extravagant manner. 

 Unprofitable cows are kept, and uneconomical methods of 



