Publishing Fund by John Norton Loughborough

Pacific Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Oakland, California · Jun 10, 1875

Publishing Fund.

By John Norton Loughborough

We have received some inquiries relative to the publishing fund, as to whether it is to be used in printing the SIGNS, or whether it is all to be considered stock, and to be used in the purchase of site, and furnishing a building, presses, types, &c., for the publishing business, simply. I am referred by one party to a remark that was made at our California camp-meeting last fall, that a portion of this fund would undoubtedly be sunk in publishing the SIGNS OF THE TIMES.

Another statement was also made, that for each and every $10 paid a certificate of stock would be issued and the person be entitled to one vote in the meetings of the association when it should become organized. I assented to the latter statement, but I could not at the time see how money "sunk in publishing the SIGNS" could be called stock, and certificates be issued therefor. But let none censure us too strongly on what was "supposed" at that meeting. None of us knew on just what basis an association would be organized, and we were not even conversant with the fact that laws existed in California under which such an association as we desired could be formed.

The association is now formed, and as far as the law of California under which our association is organized is concerned it will not allow us to consume our stock in the publishing business, but to invest it in buildings, &c., for the legitimate business of the association. Under the circumstances means for the actual publishing of the SIGNS will have to come from subscriptions to the SIGNS, direct donations for its support, profits on sale of books, &c., instead of being taken from what has been already called our subscribed capital stock.

With all explanation heretofore made, still some do not understand that the call made of late to our T. and M. workers, to look after the lists of subscribers is in exact accordance with what was stated by Bro. White, soon after the SIGNS was started. I quote his words again. "1. The agent, who obtains the names should have some evidence at least that the persons would candidly examine Bible subjects.

"2. The agent must obtain the request, or at least the consent (either by word of mouth or by letter), of persons to become subscribers and must so report.

3. "The agent should preserve a list of all the names sent to this office and should feel in duty bound to visit the persons or write to them as often as circumstances will admit, and learn whether they read the periodicals sent with any degree of interest, and if they would like to have them continued, and wish to pay the subscription price, or donate to their publication. Here is a cross to take up, an excellent field of missionary labor. Here is a chance for some of our people who are inclined to exclusiveness, to move out and become broader in their feelings and in their labors."

So you see the work we are now doing with the lists in exact harmony with what was at first proposed. We hope there will be a thorough revising of the lists. Do not hastily cast off any names, but ascertain who are reading with interest, who wish their papers stopped, who wish them continued, and who wish to contribute for the support of the SIGNS as proposed above. J. N. L.