[The White House] July 7, 1947
(These blots happened after I'd finished!)
Dear Bess:
Just finished our telephone conversation--and I am sure you'll agree that Margie should have no future handicap by having her music teacher say she had to go on charity to get a career. You know the lies that have been told about me and my business disasters. They never tell that all bills were paid and that my partner paid his part when he could.
We can't take a chance--so see that she's paid--no matter what the future holds for the teacher.
Today I had an experience that upset me worse than anything has for months. A program had been discussed and worked out on the flood situation. The Chief of Engineers, Lt. Gen Wheeler and Gen Pick were to meet Mr. Clapp and John Steelman in my office. Harry Vaughan brought the Army officers in - as he should have. We had our discussion and decided on a plan. I sent for Charlie Ross and kept Steelman in the office to discuss a public statement. While we were arriving at a conclusion Mr. Malaprop Vaughan answers questions in the front office and upsets the whole plan. Nothing can be done without creating a very bad situation. So Charlie, John and I have to grin and bear it and my military aide doesn't know he's done wrong!
I can't bring myself to pulverize him because he's been so mistreated I don't want to add to his unhappiness. Guess I'm a d-fool.
Rose's sweet little neice [sic] was taken to Doctor's Hospital today with appendicitis. Rose and the child's mother have been in tears all day. I hope it turns out all right and our Dr. thinks it will.
Bill Hassett is on the mend and will be O.K. if he minds instructions. Glad you liked my 4th speech. It has had a very good reception. I wrote Stanley and Mrs. W a "bread and butter" note, in long hand!
Hope you are having a nice time and will have a grand trip to Colo. You should stay as long as you can.
Lots of love from your harassed old man. Harry.