Letter, Wright Morrow to Franklin D. Roosevelt

WRICH MORROW COMMERCE SHELL BUILDING ackd HOUSTON, TEXAS December 18, 1941 Dear Mr. President: 4675 SUPPORT There will be no news in this letter, but I believe a reflection of thought generally shared by all American citizens today. I heard yesterday of a young acquaintance about twenty-one, whose younger brother was at Pearl Harbor. The boy here sought to enlist in the Navy, and there was some physical defect which prevented it; however, it was curable and he immediately had it rem- edied. He again presented himself and was accepted. His statement was: "They cannot treat my brother and us Americans that way." This is a striking and significant incident, typical of the feeling of Americans now. It is well-nigh impossible in normal times, or even abnormal, where the danger is not apparent, for us who did not actually achieve our liberties to ap- praise their value; but when the challenge comes, as it has come, Americans rise above their normal stride and do realize that the rights they have by inheritance are necessary to keep at the risk of everything. If I judge the spirit right, the American people are unequivocally committed to stand by you and give you unified support as their President and Com- mander-in-Chief. They realize that integrity is a nec- essary quality of Government as well as of individuals. They are fully conscious of the danger to their insti- tutions, and they are just as resolved to preserve that integrity and their own dignity and self-respect; and they will not see their liberties destroyed. May a wise and merciful God continue to keep you in health and strength. Respectfully yours, Hon. Franklin D. Roosevelt White Thorsung President of the United States Washington, D.C.