Democratic Sentinel, Volume 14, Number 9, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 21 March 1890 — Taxing Misery. [ARTICLE]

Taxing Misery.

Just now there is an attempt in some circles of high-taxers to protest against the proposed reimposition of the tax on quickie. It is claimed that this is a tax on misery and fever beds, and. therefore, should never be made. But it must be kept before the people that the tax on quinine is no more a burden upon misery and fever beds than is that which increases the cost of every blanket to the profit of a few grasping mono[ olists. 1 here is no half way in this matter. If the tariff really reduces the cost and selling price of commodities, than it would be worse than cowardice for the high-taxers to refuse the benefit of this form of taxation to the sufferers who need quinine. But if it be true that the tariff is sought by the quinine monopolists simply that they may increase their levy upon the sick an 1 helpless, then the same is true as to blankets and every other necessity of life which is taxed for the benefit of a class and at the expense of the masses. Tne tax on lumber is a tax on fever beds. Tbe same is true as to every article used by the people from the cradle to the grave. The statement that the Philadelphia manufacturers of quinine demand the restoration of their power to levy tribute on the people in the form of a quinine tax, is proof that they know the full effect of the lax, and that it will add to their profits proportionately as it robs the poor of their lights. Let the people understand this matter and there will be fewer taxes levied for the benefit of a favored class. The Leader.