HISTORY OF THE FARMERS' ALLIANCE. 95 



from within. Different interpretations were held as to the 

 character and extent of its objects and the limit of its 

 powers. This was the natural result of the formation of 

 a new organization. Then, selfishness, malice and envy 

 are elements in the nature of man that are never entirely 

 eradicated, no difference how grand the objects of the 

 organization to which he belongs, or noble the purposes 

 which inspire him. Man is not only selfish but sensitive. 

 This latter element in his nature leads him to resent the 

 least appearance of being slighted, or not being properly 

 appreciated. Then, constitutions, notwithstanding much 

 pains may be bestowed upon their construction, and wis- 

 dom and foresight displayed in their formation, are never 

 perfect. All these elements, though easily bridged over 

 while the Order was in its infancy, presented, at a later 

 date, serious questions and obstacles with which the organi- 

 zation had to combat. * One of the most serious obstacles 

 with which the Alliance and all other labor organizations 

 had, and still has to combat, was the lack of education 

 among the masses upon those questions which mostly 

 relate to their interests. Passions and prejudices are the 

 natural outgrowth of ignorance. These elements are 

 inconsistent with the -teachings of the Order, and greatly 

 impede its growth. To conciliate our differences we must 

 have intelligent as well as harmonious discussion. This, 

 the Alliance has sought to do. With what results let the 

 present harmonious condition, and remarkable success of 

 the Order testify. The Alliance does not war against 

 individuals, only as those individuals represent systems 

 which are at variance with the best interests of the masses 

 of the citizens of the Republic. It is these false systems 

 which it seeks to correct. It would be useless to recite 

 the many objects of the Order, or the reasons for its exist- 

 ence. They are substantially the same as those of the 

 Wheel, which have already been discussed, and a rehearsal 



