Jan. 30, 1917.
My dear Miss Addams:
I have gone through a veritable hell these last days. It seems that those in Mr. Ford's surroundings who have been opposing our work have at last persuaded him that he ought to give up the whole work in Europe. So under the formula of trying to keep me here for "very important publicity" work to be done in the way of getting behind President Wilson, the enemies of the work are trying to disrupt the whole European work <organization>. Oh, if I only could come to Chicago to advise with you! The only solution I saw was this: Mr. Ford has given his word that he will back-up the President "to the limit." Now, I feel that our work merits at least a verbal statement of approval from the President. I'm going after such a statement or "die in the attempt." That's why I wired you tonight as I did. It may have been a foolish move -- I don't know. I only feel instinctively that the only way to save the situation is to get the President to commit himself in a friendly way. Mr. Liebold tells me that Mr. Ford is ready to continue provided the President approves.
Thank you for letting me bother you!
Always faithfully yours,
Louis P. Lochner
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