Page:Traveler from Altruria, Howells, 1894.djvu/212

206 question, and the other said, "The theory is, that we give people work," and they both laughed.

The minister said, "I believe that in Altruria, no man works for the profit of another?"

"No; each works for the profit of all," replied the Altrurian.

"Well," said the banker, "you seem to have made it go. Nobody can deny that. But we couldn't make it go here."

"Why? I am very curious to know why our system seems so impossible to you!"

"Well, it is contrary to the American spirit. It is alien to our love of individuality."

"But we prize individuality; too, and we think we secure it under our system. Under yours, it seems to me that while the individuality of the man who makes other men work for him is safe, except from itself, the individuality of the workers"—

"Well, that is their lookout. We have found that upon the whole, it is best to let every man look out for himself. I know that, in a certain light, the result has an ugly aspect; but, nevertheless, in spite of all, the country is enormously prosperous. The pursuit of happiness, which is one of the inalienable