ANOTHER FLIVVER?

Mr. Henry Ford enjoys an enviable reputation as a hard-headed business man. Furthermore, he has on several occasions demonstrated that his heart is as soft as his head is hard and that the fortunes and happiness of those dependent on him is a matter of his real concern. But in the case of his latest venture he has reached a height never before attained. For the employees of the Detroit, Toledo and Ironton railroad, which is his latest acquisition, he has plans truly worthy of his efforts. Every worker on the road is to be assured not only of adequate food, clothing and shelter, but each family is to have a sewing machine, a phonograph, and an automobile as well. The next thing on the program is doubtless "a valet, too, for every four" such as was supplied to the crew of H. M. S. "Mantel-piece" by her kindly Captain; Mr. Ford is not the man to be outdone in generosity by anyone.

The methods by which this end is to be attained are as unusual as the aim itself. From the coal used in the engines he will extract the benzol, which he thus obtains free through the sale of the valuable by-products. From this benzol he will get as much energy as from the original amount of coal through an efficient boiler system. This, together with the "sweating of executive brows" will provide the wherewithal to buy the sewing machines and phonographs. The autos he does not need to worry about.

It is a great scheme, this plan of Mr. Ford's. If it works, he will go down in history as the great benefactor of America. If it doesn't, he will at least be blessed with the satisfaction that honest, if not practical, endeavor has been his.