1 86 , HISTORY OF THE WHEEL AND ALLIANCE. 



They have realized the importance of unity of action and 

 identity of interests. Many objections have been 

 expressed against the Union on account of it being a 

 secret organization. It is proper to remark that most of 

 these objections are made by parties who would much 

 rather see no organization of farmers of any character; 

 from men whose interests are served by frustrating the 

 accomplishment of the objects of the Order. In fact, if 

 we trace all the objections made against labor organiza- 

 tions, we would discover that it is not so much the 

 character or form of the organization as it is that which 

 it is intended to accomplish that gives rise to the numer- 

 ous criticisms to which they are subjected. That the 

 Union is a secret organization is not for the purpose as 

 our enemies would indicate of taking undue advantage 

 of merchants and tradesmen, or for secretly caucusing 

 against some political party, but simply for their own 

 protection. They have made up their minds to discuss 

 matters relating to their interests among themselves, free 

 from interference by men engaged in other occupations, 

 and the Babel that would ensue thereby from a conflict of 

 interests. The original object of the Order was to restrict 

 the membership exclusively to those who were actually 

 engaged in farming. It was afterwards extended to 

 include mechanics who did not employ more than three 

 hands. Its membership, however, includes most all 

 classes of individuals who are engaged in rural pursuits. 

 No political or religious test is necessary. 



The organic law is founded upon the principles of a 

 Democratic Republic. Each member is endowed with 

 equal privileges, is entitled to admission to all meetings, 

 National, State, County and Subordinate, and has the 

 right of trial if charges are preferred against him. This 

 privilege is extended to the right of appeal from the Sub- 

 ordinate to the County Union, and from the County to 



