Saturday, October 19, 2024

A Moving Letter of Thanks

 My Dear Mr. President,

Ever since your appointment of my husband - as your next Chief of Staff - I have wanted to write you [she had been ill]. It is difficult for me to put in words what I really feel. For years I have feared that his brilliant mind, and unusual opinion, were hopelessly caught in more or less of a tread-mill. That you should recognize his ability and place in him your confidence gives me all I have dreamed of and hoped for. I realize the great responsibility that is his. I know that his loyalty to you and to this trust will be unfailing. It is with the deepest feeling of gratitude and happiness that I send you this note of thanks.

Very Sincerely Hours,

Katherine Marshall

[Katherine Marshall was the wife of General George C. Marshall. She wrote this letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt in May of 1939. The letter is cited in Eric Larrabee's fascinating book: Commander in Chief: Franklin Delano Roosevelt, His Lieutenants & Their War.]

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