I thought I'd share this little letter with you. It was written in 1919 from the Society to a colporteur [pioneer] and former Watch Tower Pilgrim [Traveling Overseer or representative.]
It should be noted that the Hutchinson's were long time pioneers during the Russell years, and Br. Hutchinson served as pilgrim FOR the Society and AT the Society. They simply asked for some territory for them to canvass and pioneer rates for the six volumes of Studies in Scriptures. Since they were ONLY in harmony with the SIX volumes that Russell wrote, they apparently made it clear that they would not distribute any other publications. That being said, this was the Society's reply.
Dear Friends: - There being no distinction in the Truth Contained in the writings of Brother Russell and subsequent Publications of the W.T.B.& T.S. since his death, the position Taken that you will distribute the six volumes and no other publication does not presume that you would properly represent the W.T.B. & T. S., of which you would be an agent, as they are the sole publishers and distributors of Studies inApparently, because Br. And Sr. Hutchinson refused to offer Rutherford's books, they were denied their request, to not only distribute the volumes but claiming to represent the Society in distributing these volumes, should they get their hands on them at any rate. Apparently the Society as "the Beast" of Revelation were refusing these individuals from "buying and selling" unless they had the "mark."
the Scriptures. Hence, we cannot accord you an assignment of territory as requested; and since you have defined your position as not supporting the W.T.B.& T.S., in its judgment you would not be fit representatives. This, of course, precludes your privilege of Colporteur rates on any of our publications,
whether purchased in quantities or not. To class secretaries special rates are granted, but these, too, are branches, or local offices of the W.T.B. & T.S.; and they are instructed to be as discreet in delegating representatives of the society as this Office itself is.Warm Christian Greetings,
In the service of our anointed King.
[signed] W.T.B. & T.S.
This was the reply from the Hutchinson's.
Dear Friends: - Your letter is just at hand. We of course cannot do otherwise than abide by your decision, even though we leave the Colporteur work with many regrets. Your attitude reminds us very much of the incident in the days of our Lord when His disciples came to Him and said, "We saw one casting out devils in Thy Name and forbade him, because he followeth not us." Do you remember what the Master replied? How he rebuked the one-sided narrowminded spirit which actuated them? We are glad you cannot prevent us from preaching the Gospel, even though you may deny us the privilege of circulating the books.
In Him,
[signed] J. & L. Hutchinson
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That's my story and I'm sticking to it! . http://www.food4jws.org/testimonies/rr144.htm