The inspired thinker sends out a thought to the world, it is taken up
and passed through other brains, it becomes distorted or is recognized
by them in its integrity according to the caliber of mind, or the
idiosyncrasies of the one representing it. A thought or idea, once
given to the world, becomes common property. It is not possible to put
on mortgages or limit the use that may be made of it, or how it may be
made to bring in returns to commercially-inspired minds. A woman
devised a style of dress which she wore for her comfort at her own
convenience. Another woman gave exactly the same pattern and details
to the public, and is now living in elegance on the income derived from
another. A man--a worker--invents an improvement, or a better method
of doing things. The firm adopts and makes money out of it, and its
originator is forgotten. There are, however, clever people who know
how to protect their inspirations, and get the benefit themselves. The
greatest disappointment comes to the originator when the thought is
intended to indicate and outline action. So few people can achieve the
same point of view, so few can be depended upon for united, harmonious
action that the best organizing power is at times fetched up with a
"round turn," and the progress of the good work intended becomes
greatly impeded, or virtually lost.