Dear
Tex: I am glad that you wrote me as frankly and fully as you did in your letter of November thirtieth.1
As for your comment about Jack Javits, I agree thoroughly. From my observations of him as a Congressman, I would say he is progressive, dynamic and able. I have certainly been at some pains at various times to let him know of my good opinion of his judgment and of my approval of the general attitude that he seems to display toward government and its relations to our citizens. Moreover, at one time I urged him upon the New York Republican leaders as their best candidate for Mayor. So I have some trouble in reducing to concrete terms your suggestion that he and I should meet as friends; I have never felt for him anything other than friendship.2
Next I refer to your statement that you could not now assemble more than half the people who turned out for your meeting almost three years ago. Accepting without question your statement that you are intimately acquainted with the pulse of New York and with your further statement that there is a definite fall away from young citizens' "faith in me," I still must remark that I am not conscious of any serious contradiction, over the years, in my public or private statements or any change in the basic political and economic convictions to which I fervently adhere.3
So the reasons for the results you describe are not readily apparent to me. I do refuse to be a demagogue--but I have always despised the breed. I have not, of course, ever--in my life--indulged in personal, public vituperation. Incidentally, with respect to your comments on the ugly tempers aroused by McCarthyism, I must tell you that during the first five weeks I was in Denver this last summer, his name was not once mentioned to me.4 The issues that boil in New York are not always of primary concern to the rest of the country, but even if they were, I would not, under any circumstances, glorify--or at least publicize--such an individual by attempting a Presidential Philippic, with him as the target. When any individual or any idea goes completely outside the realm of logic and of reason, I doubt that elimination can be achieved through argument! In fact, it is only the persistent and senseless publicity he has achieved that has made the matter of any concern to our people.5
My own reaction to this whole messy business has been to uphold Americanism and preach fairness, justice and decency. Moreover, where I had any knowledge of facts in a case, I've made a point of praising Marshall, Zwicker, etc.6 If young or old want a President who will indulge in billingsgate--and bemean the office as it has been bemeaned before--they'll have to find another.
Of course I am delighted that you and Jinx are going to devote your great talents and energies to working with the groups you mention.7 There is much groundwork to be done, and it cannot be started too soon. As for myself, I would hope that you know me well enough to believe that I have always done what I consider in the best interests of America. It is true that my convictions of what is best for America may not always agree with the convictions of others, including yours. But I do have faith that we are both working for the same great ends, which is the important thing.
With warm regard, Sincerely
