Work, John M. 1913-04-04

Description:	Copy of letter from Eugene V. Debs, 04/04/1913. Says that he endorses Works efforts on behalf of the striking miners in West Virginia. Writes that he thinks that it is strange that the Socialist Partys National Executive Committee has taken no action on the West Virginia situation. Remarks that it would be a pity to lose this opportunity for propaganda and organization. Tells Work that the National Executive Committee owes it to the imprisoned comrades in West Virginia to take up their cause. Writes that if it was Morris Hillquit, John Spargo, or Victor Berger in prison instead of Mother Jones the National Executive Committee would have taken action long ago. Says that he has been doing what he could for the striker in the pages of the APPEAL TO REASON. Informs Work that the reason why the National Executive Committee is inactive is because the Socialist Party is almost bankrupt. Asks that Work tell him how much money was advanced to the campaign committee from the general treasury during the 1912 campaign and the current debt of the party. Remarks that the fight over J. Mahlon Barnes was responsible for the Socialist Partys financial troubles. Mentions that he has heard that the Socialist Party has lost 35,000 members in the last 6 months. Informs Work that although the condition throughout the country are in the most favorable condition for . . . socialist propaganda that the national party does not seem to be able, for some reason, to organize and properly direct the work of efficient organization and to inspire and enthuse the rank and file of the party membership. Assures Work that he would be in West Virginia if he was not ill.
Origin:	1913-04-04
Source:	http://indstate.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/evdc/id/12050
Collection:	Eugene V. Debs Correspondence
Subjects:	West Virginia Miners strikes Health Famous Hoosiers Labor

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