THE MASTER KEY TO RICHES

FOREWORD

“I give and bequeath to the American people the greater part of my vast fortune, which consists of the philosophy of individual achievement, through which all of my riches were accumulated . Thus began the last will and testament of Andrew Carnegie. It is the prologue of a story which may well mark the most im- portant turning-point in the lives of all who read it.

The story began in the late Fall of 1908, when Andrew Carnegie called me in, paid me the great compliment of respect for my judgment and integrity, and entrusted to me what he said was “the greater portion” of his vast fortune, with the understanding that the legacy was to be presented to the American people.

THIS STORY HAS BEEN WRITTEN to notify you of your right to share in this huge estate, and to inform you of the conditions under which you may richly share it.

These conditions are in no way formidable or limited to the very few. The conditions are well within the reach of any adult of average intelligence. There are no tricks or false hopes, either in connection with the conditions or in this promise.

So that you may know whether or not this offers anything you need or desire, let me tell you specifically what is promised:

A clear description of the formula by which you may have the full benefit of the Master-Key to Riches-a key that should unlock the doors to the solution of all your problems, that will help you to convert your past failures into priceless assets, and lead you to attainment of the Twelve Great Riches, including economic security.

An inventory of the riches left by Andrew Carnegie for distribution to those who are qualified to receive them, together with detailed instructions through which you may acquire and use your full share.

A description of the means by which you may have the full benefit of the education, experience, and technical skills of those whose cooperation you may need for the attainment of your

 major purposes in life, thus providing a practical means by which you may bridge the disadvantages of an inadequate education and attain the highest goals of life as successfully as may those who are blessed with a formal education.

The privilege of using the philosophy of success which was organized from the life experiences, by trial and error, of hundreds of eminent men.

A definite plan by which anyone who works for wages or a salary may promote himself into a higher income with the full cooperation and consent of his employer.

A definite plan through which anyone who works for others may get into a business or profession of his own, with more than average chances of success.

A definite plan through which any businessman may convert his customers into permanent patrons, and through their hearty cooperation, add new customers who will likewise become permanent.

A definite plan by which any salesman of useful merchandise, or of services such as Life insurance, may convert his buyers into willing workers who will aid him in finding new clients.

A definite plan through which any employer may make personal friends of his employees, under circumstances which will enable him to make his business more profitable for both himself and his employees.

You have here a clear statement of our promises, and the first condition under which you may benefit by these is that you read this book twice, line by line, and think as you read!

Let it be known at the outset that when we speak of “riches,” we have in mind all riches-not merely those represented by bank balances and material things.

We have in mind the riches of liberty and freedom, of which we have more than any other nation. We have in mind the riches of human relationships through which every

American citizen may exercise to the fullest the privilege of personal initiative in whatever direction he chooses. Thus, when we speak of “riches,” we have reference to the abundant life which is everywhere available to the people of the United States, and obtainable with a minimum amount of effort.

Meanwhile, let it be understood that we shall offer no suggestions to anyone as to the nature of the riches for which he should aim, nor the amount he should undertake to acquire. Fortunately, the American life offers an abundance of all forms of riches, sufficient in both quality and quantity to Satisfy all reasonable human desires. We sincerely hope that every reader will aim for his share, not only of the things that can buy, but of the things money cannot buy!

money

We shall not undertake to tell any man how to live his life. but we know, from having observed both the rich and poor of America, that material riches are no guarantee of happiness.

We have never yet found a truly happy person who was not engaged in some form of service by which others were benefited. And we do know many who are wealthy in material things, but have not found happiness.

We mention these observations not to preach, but to quicken those who, because of the great abundance of material riches in America, take them for granted, and who have lost sight of the priceless things of life that are to be acquired only through the intangible riches we have mentioned.

Napoleon Hill