Charles Sumner, his complete works, volume 20 (of 20)

Volume 20 — HOURS OF LABOR.

Reading edition

Letter to the Convention of the Massachusetts Labor Union in Boston, May 25, 1872.

Illustration from Charles Sumner: his complete works, volume 20 (of 20)

Senate Chamber, May 25, 1872.

GENTLEMEN,—I cannot take part in your public meeting, but I declare my sympathy with the working-men in their aspirations for greater equality of condition and increased opportunities. I therefore insist that the experiment of an eight-hour law in the national workshops shall be fairly tried, so that, if successful, it may be extended.

Here let me confess that I find this law especially valuable, because it promises more time for education and general improvement. If the experiment is successful in this respect, I shall be less curious on the question of pecuniary profit and loss; for to my mind the education of the human family is above dollars and dividends.

Meanwhile accept my best wishes, and believe me

Faithfully yours,

Charles Sumner.

To the Committee.