of $787,500 for the
market value of farm products last year.

"Does this exhibit appeal to you as a reasonable basis for the
accumulated savings named in your questions?"

"I am sure the exhibit has astonished me greatly! Your figures and
statements are both fascinating and convincing. They are all, most
excellent arguments in favor of co-operative methods. I now perceive
that even on the basis of present conditions, a five per cent profit
turned into the insurance fund, at the end of the first ten years, will
amount to the extraordinary sum of $200,000. With this magnificent fund,
you can afford to extend the scope of your original plan! How will you
dispose of it? At what age do you propose to retire the active workers?"

"Yes, our original plans have been changed, and very much enlarged. The
insurance fund has grown so rapidly, that it was deemed wise to expend a
portion of it, in building a hospital for the accommodation of our farm
people, and perhaps a few outside patients. Last year, a two-story and
basement brick building, was erected just in the heart of our finest
shrubbery dotted lawn, some distance from the public square. It is large
enough for about one hundred patients. Viewed from any point, it
presents a charming appearance. It is conceded by all to be the
handsomest structure on the farm. Inside, with its polished floors,
magnificent windows, large rooms, high, beautifully frescoed walls and
ceilings, dainty couches, cozy chairs, and wide, breezy halls, with
picture-laden walls; every condition is present to satisfy the highest
ideal of sick-room comfort. Brighter, sunnier, more health-inspiring
rooms never soothed, charmed or healed a nerve shattered patient!

"Under the supervision of the sanitary committee, the hospital at
present, is in charge of a young surgeon employed by the company. His
services are utilized in teaching and preparing a class of trained
nurses. He also teaches the members of the chemistry and physiology
clubs, in their new study rooms at the hospital. At a later period this
surgeon will be superseded by two of our own people. A young woman and a
young man, both with some previous knowledge of pharmacy, who have been
in charge of the drug department at the store; have recently developed a
strong desire to take a thorough course of medicine and surgery at some
leading school. Upon the recommendation of the general manager, approved
by a unanimous vote of the co-operators, the ex