Communications

To the Editors of the CRIMSON:

This morning you printed a communication from F. van Mason. May I express my appreciation?

Mr. Mason's perspicacity in discerning that an intelligent man with "Honest Beliefs" can expiate his treason only by being kept locked up, is commendable. I agree with his inference that only by confining such a man can he be made harmless. Mr. Mason, who is well aware that ours is a government by, not of, the majority, compels my respect by the clearness with which he perceives that the "thousands, even millions" who venture from the good road trod by the respectable majority are "uneducated" and "unthinking". I even go with him in his implied belief that the word of a thinker is less likely to be taken as law by "near Americans" if he is incarcerated than if he is left at large. Admirable as Mr. Mason's scorn for those who, through the pardon of Gene Debs, might be encouraged to obstruct the prosecution of future wars; edifying is his stand in regard to the freeing of William Haywood.

I agree with Mr. Mason that the ideal for which our young men died was pure and Godly. I am sure he will believe with me that the fate of Socrates and the fate of the Nazarine were merely confirming exceptions, added to which may soon be the fate of Debs, to the great truth that the voice of the people is the voice of God.

Mr. Debs has said that he came to prison with his convictions and that he will leave prison with them. I am afraid he will but not alone. I am afraid that six men will have to carry him to that place where all convictions, whether acquiescing or dissenting, thrive unnoticed and unmolested; to that place of infinite and final freedom, the grave. Then perhaps Mr. Mason, and all others who think as he does, will rejoice with me. J. J. DOLX Sr.

February 7, 1921.