Manuscript/Mixed Material
Letter from Edward E. Hale to Alexander Graham Bell, December 14, 1900

FROM EDWARD E. HALE. 39 Highland St. Roxbury, Mass. Dec. 14, 1900. My dear Mr. Bell:—

Our good friend Mrs. Chamberlin has shown me your letter to her.

I have told her that it seems to me wise, from end to end, with the single exception of its suggestion of my name as president of the National society.

I am amazed—I am distressed—at the statistical statements which your study of the census enables you to make. It is clear that whatever is undertaken must be undertaken with a view of this.

I am quite ready to join in any effort for the national organisation. But it is absolutely impossible that I should appear as President or any officer in such an organisation. I would say to you personally that the proper President is Mr. GrahamBell and I beg you to reconsider your statement