| Okay, they arrived over the space of a couple of days. I thought it might be worthwhile to share.
Illiad,
I read your appeal for help a while back and figured you might appreciate some feedback from someone who does not subscribe.
I've been reading your cartoon for over two years and really
enjoy it. But I have to admit that I don't read the news items,
or look at the ads (don't even ask about clicking on them) or
buy any merchandise or books.
I get the cartoon for free and don't see any reason why this
should change.
Yes, I'm a leech, but that doesn't bother me.
Just thought you would like to know.
(name withheld)
To which I replied:
Thanks for writing in. And more than anything, thanks for your candor.
I'm always pleased to hear that someone out there is enjoying what I do, because that's why I do this. It certainly isn't the money. I'm sure you're aware, however, that money is precisely what allows me to do this.
Since you were blunt, I will be too. Yes, you're a leech, and probably the worst kind -- you really don't seem to care either way what happens as long as you get your freebie. I can't bring myself to become angry over this, because I know the apathy that you're demonstrating is rampant across he 'net. It's saddening though, because we as a subculture have such a great opportunity to break the power of the big middlemen and earn a niche in the creative industry -- and we're letting it slip past out of selfishness.
Hopefully the majority of UF's audience doesn't feel the way you do. If a sizeable portion buys into a subscription, or buys merchandise, or helps out by visiting our advertisers, everything will work out fine. If not, well, I suppose it's just evolution in action.
Assuming that things do work out, I'm hoping I can figure out a way to offer everything to the fans who help us out in some way, and offer nothing to the fans who don't.
Just thought you'd like to know.
To which he replied:
Illiad,
You got me there. I have to admit that when I first read your reply I got really pissed off. But fair is fair. I may even kick some cash your way soon.
(name withheld)
I can't say I'm holding my breath. | 
