that we may congratulate ourselves on the successes which we have
gained. But the joy I now feel must not silence the second thought
which reminds us of everything which we still have to do. We must,
and for a long time, yes, for long years, keep on fighting against
the rooted prejudices of many of our fellow-countrymen, and we also
have to contend against the obstructing ignorance of those who, till
now, have not heard the voice of our prized language.

The manner in which our opponents treat our efforts calls to mind the
tale of a certain German deputy who, interrupting the speech of the
Minister, cried out, "I do not know your arguments, but I thoroughly
disapprove of them." So also are the tactics of those who continually
endeavour to hinder the world's progress, and who bear an especial
ill-will against our valued Esperanto. "We do not know your language,"
these are ever proclaiming, "but we thoroughly disapprove of it!"
Now, blind critics of that sort cannot disconcert us. Our motto is
"_Forwards_," and this other saying of the glorious Galileo: "_And
nevertheless it moves._" And now we naturally ask why we, Members of
the London Esperanto Club, can look into the future with so much
confidence. We do not resemble that deputy; we seek for the causes
and weigh the arguments of things. "Happy that man," says Virgil,
"who has been able to discover the causes of things."

Why may we be confident as to the continued growth and prosperity of
our Club? Since it has succeeded so very well during the first year
of its existence, we must ask why it has thus succeeded. Here is the
answer to that question. It has succeeded because its members are
filled with fervour, and are ready to labour ceaselessly to spread
the language. We possess among our members many Esperantists who have
very greatly helped us in teaching Esperanto without charge, in
holding classes in various parts of London, of England, and even of
the whole world; for many of our members are inhabitants of distant
lands. We are confident because we have a Secretary (the sentences
following the Editor is compelled by modesty to delete, as he is also
the Hon. Sec).

I, for my part, believe I am the only blamable member of the Club, as
I have only assisted it by the ordinary daily propaganda.
Nevertheless, I rejoice to state that not infrequently have I
succeeded in enrolling recruits for our Cause from among the
incredulous. Nobody can interest himself more than