It is essential that we should maintain the sound American tradition and spirit of voluntary aid in such emergency.

We are faced with a national emergency.

Please accept my congratulations, and the congratulations of the American people.

I congratulate you cordially upon acquiring the services of my long time friend and co-laborer, George Akerson, whose ability, personality and loyalty I hold in the highest esteem.

Much of the debate indicates plainly that those who favored this resolution are intent upon removing Messrs. Smith, Draper, and Garsaud, not because they are unqualified but to insist upon the Senate's own selection of certain subordinates.

I regret that the Government should be absorbed upon such questions as the action of the Power Commission in employment or nonemployment of two subordinate officials at a time when the condition of the country requires every constructive energy.

There is no issue for or against power companies.

I cannot, however, allow a false issue to be placed before the country.

I regret that I must refuse to accede to the requests.

Mrs. Mildred Barnes Mclnturff may be appointed to an appropriate position in the Department of Commerce without reference to the provisions of the civil service rules.

The only news item I have at the moment is that Mr. Akerson is leaving the White House service.

I haven’t anybody in mind whatever. I have got to look around and find somebody.

I have no doubt that when the details of the plan are known they will be subject to criticism, as any plan will be.

Mr. John W. Martyn, executive assistant, Office of the Secretary of War, may be classified as administrative assistant and chief clerk in the War Department.

These negotiations have been in progress for several weeks.

I will try to get you out a table dividing it in all directions so that everybody can see what he gets.

I have nothing for public statement.

I AM shocked to learn of the death of my friend Dr. David N. Mosessohn.