A TRAVELING MAN'S LETTER.
Indianapolis, Ind.—"Mrs. Carrie Nation, Wichita, Kan:—As a preface
I feel it my duty to extend to you my sincere apology for encroaching
these lines for your consideration during the trying hours of your
incarceration, but as the purport of my letter undoubtedly differs, materially
in text, from the countless hundreds you have received, I feel assured
that the sentiment involved, originated as it has, solely from the spirit
and intrepid aggressiveness you have exploited in the suppression of that
paramount curse of mankind, Drink! will, in a measure, justify you in
condoning these lines.
For years the writer has been a traveling salesman, occupying
positions of trust and responsibility. As is the universal trait among
the larger element of my class, I contracted the indulgence of liquor.
From its inception and social intercourse, it gradually developed until
I became an irresistible slave to those base affinities—lewd women and
whiskey. The result, inevitable as death, produced its dregs; shattered
health, separation of family, and social and business ostracism. Prior
to a month ago, reparation and redemption from medical arid spiritual
aid, had proven valueless; with no alternative, I became resigned to the
results of a mis-spent
life, when, from the West came the voice and heroic deeds of a
woman. Simple yet fervent, intrepid yet unique. You aroused the press
and the people. Your mission was born. Thousands, you may have
"influenced," but me you have "redeemed." I have read your words with
intenseness. Your forcible acts have impressed me. I resolved and have
conquered. God bless you! I am now organizing a temperance league
among my brother traveling men, paradoxical as it may sound, and am
meeting with a fair support, yet I believe an impetus and a stronger
influential lever can be extended through the expression of your well wishes
and any timely topics you care to extend in furtherance of the cause.
Asking your kind indulgence, and with best wishes for your ultimate
welfare, believe me.
Your loyal supporter,
W. S. SANFORD. Care Terre
Haute House, Terre Haute, Ind.
