June 11, 1945

My dear Daughter:-

Your letter was most welcome. I read it with a lot of appreciation. You evidently are just finding out what a terrible situation the President's daughter is facing. That was the main reason for my not wanting to be Vice-President. I knew what it would mean to you and your mother--to your Aunts and Uncles and Grandmothers and cousins particularly those named Truman if what has happened came about.

But you will have to try and bear it as best you can because it is a reality and as old Cleveland said you are facing a condition--not a theory. So you must face it, keep your balance and go along just as your dad is trying to go. People will be trying to find something in your conduct and in mine to talk about and criticize. If they really have something to find fault with then, of course, it is too bad. But if there is no truth in what they say we must go along, doing right and paying no attention to the dirt which is thrown at us.

That has been my policy since I was a little boy---and just look where it landed me! Maybe it was wrong. I am sending you a tissue of lies put out by Drew Pearson, which brought on the philosophical discourse. Had a lot of fun with Reathal about it. It is funny when you consider that your dad not only didn't chase you out of town but that he felt like weeping when you did leave---even in spite of that spell of bad humor.

I've always known that Washington is a hick town---in fact I don't know of a so called hick town that isn't a better and more friendly place---but I could never make you and your mamma believe it.

Hope Michael Joseph Casey has a grand summer and finally gets his private lodging properly placed. What does the fat Mr.Spot Wallace think of this interloper named Mike? I'll wager his opinion is not printable---it if could be expressed.

I hope you gave a nice time at home and I'll count the days until you return. I'm not going to San Francisco until next week. Had a nice boat ride Sunday with the newsmen who went the rounds with me on the V.P. campaign last fall. Glad you went to see Aunt Mary and Mamma.

Write your dad when you have time-kiss your mamma for me.

Lots & lots of love

Dad