Springfield Globe Republic

A Distinction With a Difference.

We are certain that much of the trouble that now exists in this city has arisen from confounding the principles and purposes of Socialists, as represented by Parsons, the Chicago agitator, with those of the Knights of Labor. But they are not only separate, they are contradictory; and the manufacturers of the country ought to understand it.

At the time Parsons was here the Knights publicly disavowed their responsibility for or sympathy with him. Hence no surprise ought to be expressed by anybody at the statement that Knights of Labor attend prayer-meetings or that they are prayed for by their fellow-Christians.

The Socialists advocate a revolutionary and forcible distribution of property. The Knights of Labor believe in the right of petition, in negotiation, in arbitration, and are opposed to strikes. Their chief executive officer, Mr. Powderly, of Scranton, Pa., is spoken of by persons of the highest standing, who know him intimately, as a man of character, sense, and prudence, and as in all respects a square, honest man, who aims to work for the mutual benefit of capital and labor.

It is our desire to maintain so impartial an attitude as to do what may be in our power to promote a proper understanding between the parties in conflict, and, if possible, to bring about a reconciliation and a restoration of amity and co-operation between employers and employees in this city.