Dear
Arthur: It is true that I agreed to accept the invitation of the American Society of Newspaper Editors to have lunch with its members here in Washington on April 16th.1 It is also true that for this year I see no chance of accepting the invitation of the Associated Press.2 This does not mean, of course, that in succeeding years I would not make a special effort to accept if I should again be invited.
I was somewhat astonished to note that you considered the American Society of Newspaper Editors to represent a more "limited" audience than did the Associated Press. In any event, when I accepted the invitation for the 16th, I assumed that I was to speak to the most broadly representative of any editorial group in America. (Incidentally, I haven't the foggiest idea, as yet, what I shall talk about.) This job is another one of those in which the occupant is always too busy to find time to think.
I am certain that Foster Dulles would be delighted to talk to you about your impressions of your recent trip.
My affectionate regard to Iphigene, and of course, all the best to you, Sincerely
P.S. From the beginning I wanted to have Phil Young in Government.3 In the early weeks I refused to ask him because of my concern of what Columbia might do if he should leave. However, when I learned that he had no intention of making his Columbia post a permanent one and would entertain the idea of going elsewhere, I decided to move before anyone else could obtain his promise. I had meant to write to the Chairman4 to explain this point to him, but if I should forget it, I would be appreciative if you would make my attitude clear.
