Letter from Wilmington, Del. on Paying for Reading
The following letter is only a sample of what we are receiving almost constantly from different parts of the world. We take the liberty to publish it entire. It shows the utility of having people pay something for their reading matter, as it is an evidence of their interest to read. There is a general impression that “that which costs nothing is worth nothing.” S. N. HASKELL.—Dear Bro.: Your communication of Nov. 24, 1874, was duly received. I am in full sympathy with every branch of the work, and look upon the laborers as one body, and each individual as a member. I realize that this is my work, and that that which is best for the whole body is best for each member, and vice versa. I will take the books as mine, and will remit to the Office as I dispose of them, and will endeavor to get them in use as soon as possible. Since writing the letter you speak of, two more have commenced keeping the Sabbath. Last evening, as I was out distributing tracts, a lady noticed one in the package, “Who Changed the Sabbath?” She said her little girl asked her (I believe that day) the same question, but she could not answer it. So she bought that one, and another, and seemed very much interested in finding out all about it. I have learned from experience in my practice, that what people pay for, they take more interest in. There is not one case in ten that I can do anything for unless I get them to pay me something in advance. So I generally sell tracts to most every one, throwing off a few cents from the full price. I can most always tell the man or woman who would be interested in anything of the kind, and I present them with a package of tracts, and tell them to select any they might wish to read. The Methodist Sunday-school I spoke of has not taken the Instructor yet; but they have a festival or musical entertainment next Wednesday evening to raise funds, and I will present the matter then. They like the copies I have shown them very much. One who commenced keeping the Sabbath yesterday has subscribed for the Review, and bought several books of me, and will be a great help to me in the missionary work, being both amiable and intelligent, and has the truth at heart. There is but little prejudice here. Many are willing, and even anxious, to read; and some are fully persuaded that truth is on our side. I avoid all controversies as far as possible and let the people read instead. I need the help of the Lord that my work may be well done. I ask an interest in your prayers.