Telephone Murray Hill 6-4986
OPERATION DEMOCRACY, INC.
369 Lexington Avenue New York 17, N.Y.

September 3, 1948

Miss Velma Carson
Morganville, Kansas

Dear Miss Carson:

Just prior to clearing out of town for a Labor Day fling at the striped bass off Cape Cod, we would like to take this opportunity to inform you that O. D. loves Morganville. The radio program was magnificent. Strong men wept, and several women decided to �remove� to Kansas. The real pay-off, however, is the thought of getting cookies from the Ruegg girls.

For some reason, Bob Sonken started back to New York via Louisville, and from last reports, he got no further. Consequently, we have not yet had a first-hand report, or heard any of the recordings. His voice on the Mutual broadcast contained an ill-concealed note of triumph, however, so we know all went well. Maybe Bob didn't tell you, but the probable reason for his knowing the proper side from which to approach Old Buttercup was the fact that he took off for Kansas from my Western New York farm where he looked into the subject thoroughly. We are very glad to hear he pleased everybody. The Bronx will be glad to hear Mrs. Huff's comment.

I am very happy to hear about the State Senator et. al. who liked the idea. If you have any people in mind to whom we should send material, please let us know.

The wheels of affiliation will undoubtedly roll very slowly for a while for it sometimes takes a little while for the French towns to understand exactly what is happening. They begin with the assumption that Americans are all crazy and for a while they will try to humor you. Later, they will catch on. Above all, don't be discouraged by sudden requests for a bull-dozer, three tractors and a grain elevator. Our movies, magazines and tourists have convinced the French that every one of us has a swimming pool and seven servants, and it takes time to convince them otherwise. A couple of good scrap books about Morganville, prepared by your school kids, would be an excellent addition to your shipment.

Some day, you might want to consider bringing a young French farm boy over here to learn something about Kansas farming. If you do, let us know and we'll try to pull some strings on free transportation.

Regarding the actual shipping problem, don�t let American Aid to France worry you with their long and complicated instructions. They are fine people and do a good job - but if for any reason you question their procedure, packing charges, etc., let us know and we will take it up with them. Their distribution system is good. They have an American Staff in Paris who are very alert to any problems of black market, unfair distribution, etc., and their record so far has been a hundred per cent successful.

Well, I haven't really much to say beyond how very grateful we are. I hope all of you will keep in touch with us, and that you will 1et us help where we can.

Very Sincerely,


Charles L. Todd
Executive Secretary