Alan Simpson: “even now as the reality of it all starts to settle in on us, it is hard to believe that Richard Nixon is gone. He was…”

“even now as the reality of it all starts to settle in on us, it is hard to believe that Richard Nixon is gone. He was many things in life--an extraordinary politician, a President who accomplished a great deal, a loving father, a devoted husband, a leader in foreign affairs, and a diplomat of incredible talent, ability, and foresight. He was all of these things and so much more. He was also a very dear friend, someone on whom I and so many of my colleagues came to rely for sage advice that cut right to the heart of every issue we presented to him and he to us. I know that I shall personally truly miss him, for I used to spend time with him in New York and also here in Washington. When he would come here, he would call, and I would go to his hotel. In only moments, suddenly one could clearly realize that President Nixon had some incisive suggestions, advice, and counsel which would be of assistance in extricating ourselves from some difficult position, whether in domestic or in foreign affairs.”