IT is well for a theory to be subjected to the test of
adverse criticism. Particularly in matters of contempo-
raneous history the public are interested to hear all
sides. We have presented in this book our estimate of
the French and English schools of Socialism; but as
the reader may deem a Communist's judgment of the
Phalansterian school necessarily defective, we are happy
to insert here a communication from Mr. Brisbane him-
self, presenting a partizan's defence of Fourier. It was
received and printed in the Circular, just as the last
chapters of our history of Fourierism were preparing.

"To the Editor of the Circular:

"Will you allow me space in your journal to say that
no practical trial, and no approach to one, has as yet been
made of Fourier's theory of Social Organization. A
trial of a theory supposes that the practical test is made
in conformity with its principles; otherwise there is no
trial. Let generous minds who are working for the
social redemption of their race, be just to those who
have labored conscientiously for this great end. Let
them be just to Fourier, who, in silence during a long
life strove to solve the great problem of the organization

-658-