Page 20 - Napoleon Hill Think and Grow Rich Full Book | Success Learned

Almost fifteen years ago, I delivered the Commencement Address at Salem Col-
lege, Salem, West Virginia. I emphasized the principle described in the next chap-
ter, with so much intensity that one of the members of the graduating class defi-
nitely appropriated it, and made it a part of his own philosophy. The young man
is now a Member of Congress, and an important factor in the present administra-

19

NAPOLEON HILL THINK AND GROW RICH

tion. Just before this book went to the publisher, he wrote me a letter in which
he so clearly stated his opinion of the principle outlined in the next chapter, that
I have chosen to publish his letter as an introduction to that chapter. It gives you
an idea of the rewards to come.

"My dear Napoleon:

"My service as a Member of Congress having given me an insight into the problems of men and
women, I am writing to offer a suggestion which may become helpful to thousands of worthy
people.

"With apologies, I must state that the suggestion, if acted upon, will mean several years of
labor and responsibility for you, but I am en-heartened to make the suggestion, because I know
your great love for rendering useful service.

"In 1922, you delivered the Commencement address at Salem College, when I was a member'
of the graduating class. In that address, you planted in my mind an idea which has been respon-
sible for the opportunity I now have to serve the people of my State, and will be responsible, in
a very large measure, for whatever success I may have in the future.

"The suggestion I have in mind is, that you put into a book the sum and substance of the address
you delivered at Salem College, and in that way give the people of America an opportunity to
profit by your many years of experience and association with the men who, by their greatness,
have made America the richest nation on earth.

"I recall, as though it were yesterday, the marvelous description you gave of the method by
which Henry Ford, with but little schooling, without a dollar, with no influential friends, rose to
great heights. I made up my mind then, even before you had finished your speech, that I would
make a place for myself, no matter how many difficulties I had to surmount.

"Thousands of young people will finish their schooling this year, and within the next few years.
Every one of them will be seeking just such a message of practical encouragement as the one I
received from you. They will want to know where to turn, what to do, to get started in life. You
can tell them, because you have helped to solve the problems of so many, many people.

"If there is any possible way that you can afford to render so great a service, may I offer the