My dear Miss Addams,
Many thanks for your kindness in letting me see Dame Henrietta's letter & the other documents, which I return herewith.
I need scarcely say that the scheme appeals deeply to me. It is a touching & beautiful idea, & I am gladly sending a trifling contribution to the fund. As to my going on the Committee, I think you should seriously consider the grave objection -- for it is a grave objection, at least in this city -- of my English birth. Everything I ever say in behalf of peace of international [cooperation] is assailed by the Tribune on this ground. They trotted it out last July 4th (when I was abroad & couldn't answer) because I had joined in urging them to change the Decatur maxim. Of course I don't mind this myself, or let it deter me from saying or doing whatever I think right. But you should consider whether it would not make me more of a hindrance than a help on a committee for such a purpose [page 2] as this present one. I fear it would; but if you and your colleagues think otherwise, I shall be glad to do what I can.
With cordial regard, & best wishes for the New Year,
Yours sincerely,
Horace J. Bridges
Miss Jane Addams.
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