So I would urge you, Jonathan, and all who believe in Socialism, to join the party organization. Get into the movement in earnest and try to keep posted upon all that relates to it. Read some of the papers published by the party--at least two papers representing different phases of the movement. There are, always and everywhere, at least two distinct tendencies in the Socialist movement, a radical wing and a more moderate wing. Whichever of these appeals to you as the right tendency, you will need to keep informed as to both. Above all, my friend, I would like to have you _study_ Socialism. I don't mean merely that you should read a Socialist propaganda paper or two, or a few pamphlets: I do not call that studying Socialism. Such papers and pamphlets are very good in their way; they are written for people who are not Socialists for the purpose of awakening their interest. So far as they go they are valuable, but I would not have you stop there, Jonathan. I would like to have you push your studies beyond them, beyond even the more elaborate discussions of the subject contained in such books as this. Read the great classics of Socialist literature--and don't be afraid of reading the attacks made upon Socialism by its opponents. Study the philosophy of Socialism and its economic theories; try to apply them to your personal experience and to the events of every day as they are reported in the great newspapers. You see, Jonathan, I not only want you to know what Socialism is in a very thorough manner, but I also want you to be able to teach others in a very thorough manner. And now, my patient friend, Good Bye! If _The Common Sense of Socialism_ has helped you to a clear understanding of Socialism, I shall be amply repaid for writing it. I ask you to accept it for whatever measure of good it may do and to forgive its shortcomings. Others might have written a better book for you, and some day I may do better myself--I do not know. I have honestly tried my best to set the claims of Socialism before you in plain language and with comradely spirit. And if it succeeds in convincing you and making you a Socialist, Jonathan, I shall be satisfied. APPENDIX I A SUGGESTED COURSE OF READING ON SOCIALISM The following list of books on various phases of Socialism is published in connection with the advice contained on pages 173-174 relating to the necessity of _studying_ Socialism. The names of the publishers are given in each case for the reader's convenience. Charles H. Kerr & Company do _not_ sell, or receive orders for, books issued by other publishers. (_A_) _History of Socialism_ The History of Socialism, by Thomas Kirkup. The Macmillan Company, New York. Price $1.50, net. French and German Socialism in Modern Times, by R.T. Ely. Harper Brothers, New York. Price 75 cents. The History of Socialism in the United States, by Morris Hillquit. The Funk & Wagnalls Company, New York. Price $1.75. (_B_) _Biographies of Socialists_