Story Advice

Get some advice from Benjamin Butler

As you know, I am a strong supporter of the efforts of mill workers to secure better working conditions. I have presented petitions and spoken out in the state legislature, written to the Lowell newspapers and spoken in favor of limiting the workday to ten hours at workers rallies. Your cause is just. You deserve improved working conditions and wages.

But at this moment, I advise workers not to strike. Economic conditions are poor and mill agents can say they cannot afford to lose time or money. In addition, through your letters and petitions, and because the merchants depend on your purchases, you are gaining sympathy from the public for your cause. But a strike may cause some of them to be concerned about a disruption of public order and a loss of business. Do not lose heart and keep up your efforts.