My daughter received a chain letter a couple of years ago. The object of the chain was new beach shoes (flip flops). She just had to send one pair to one person on the list and send the letter out to eight other people (marking out one name and adding another) and she would suddenly have more flip-flops than she would ever need. She was excited. It seemed like a teachable moment so I let her try it. She got two pair for her participation. Both were too small. She considered it a waste of time. Smart girl.
The Truth About Chains and Pyramids
Chains break and pyramids crumble. There have been supposed 'moneymaking' letters flooding traditional mail for decades. What follows is a portion of one of those letters.
DO YOU NEED $8,000??????
Let (Name here) tell you how I have run one of these promotion letters four times in the past year. The First time I received $7,000 in cash and around $7,800 the other three. It this letter is continued as it should be, everyone profits! Yes, and don't worry about financing or paying money back. After the first time, you'll see what I mean, and next time you will be more eager and glad. Now, let me give you the complete story and details.
Please forward them and in about 30 days you will be $8,000 richer.
This letter will pay up to $8,000 because there are only four names at all times. Three moves and you are in a position to receive one dollar from each participant. This chain letter was initiated by (Fictitious name) from Nashville, Tennessee, for the purpose of investment capital. But, now this has been expanded. Your participation is one dollar to the first person or firm in the Number One position below, while omitting the name to whom you sent the dollar. Then, move the list of names up one place and place your name at the bottom. Mail a copy of this letter to 20 new prospects.
MAIL YOUR LETTERS within 48 HOURS AND DO NOT BREAK THE CHAIN. When your name reaches the Number One position, it will be your turn to collect the fees. They will be sent to you by 8,000 persons like yourself. Please DO NOT BREAK THE CHAIN BECAUSE IT REALLY WORKS!! In fact, I guarantee it, provided you do not break the chain and follow the simple rules above. Try it and see. You are investing ONLY, ONE DOLLAR, and that is all you can lose. Be sure to copy this letter completely. Don't leave any of it out.
Send your report to (Address omitted). Let us know when your fee was sent and how much you received within nine days. We have at the present time almost 100% return to the people carrying out this letter promotion. The majority received $7,800. If four names should be listed on your promotion, the one in Number One position is omitted, after you send him your one dollar. Then, put your name and address in the Number Four position.
$8,000 is capital absolutely free! Send letters only to people who have secretaries or whom you personally consider "Doers." Look 20 times 20 times 20 equals 8,000!!!!.
Analysis
Both chains and pyramids have voracious appetites. If someone fails to keep either of them going then there is one less prop holding the scheme up. As more people decide not to participate the chain or pyramid begins to collapse in on itself - such a dark secret. The result always makes money for a few and provides a devastating loss to the majority. In its most basic premise
chain letters and
pyramid schemes are little more than gambling in the hopes that you are getting in at a good time.
Oh, did I forget to mention that unlike gambling in many locations,
chain letters and
pyramid schemes are illegal? No matter what you read in the information sent to you they are illegal. You may never get caught and no one may be prosecuted, but the American government has determined this is not a sound business practice. Since most people who have been involved and lost don't like to talk about it we thought you'd like to know what to expect should you decide to participate.
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