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Dear Sir:
I have recently happened to see a copy of a leaflet by yourself entitled Genuine Pacifism or Something Else.
It is obvious that this is written in a spirit of real patriotism; I doubly regret, therefore, that much of it is based on misapprehension.
On the third page there is a reference to D. Emily Balch, which I presume is meant to apply to me (Emily Greene Balch). I think I am right in saying that I have never been a member of the Executive Committee of the Civil Liberties Union. If I was, it was so long ago and under such different circumstances that I have forgotten it. Can you learn the facts on this? The statement you make in regard to that organization is, however, not true. It mainly occupies itself with trying to see that legal justice is done especially in cases of the weak and of unpopular causes, that the name of America may be honored. This certainly is how I understand its purpose.
It is really funny to see Mrs. Mead (not Meade) attacked as a radical, -- a religious woman, of ingrained conservative character, a patriot and a pacifist, -- two characters happily compatible.
As to Miss Jane Addams, I am glad that you realize at least her good intentions. As to how the President of our country regards in especial her work for peace, I refer you to his letter quoted on page 9 of the enclosed pamphlet. Miss Addams is a D.A.R. and has contributed by request to the legion national organ.
As to Mr. Libby, one of the honestest and most useful of the living servants of true Americanism, in spite of calumnies, he can protect himself if he thinks it worthwhile. He is at least as opposed to red armies, revolutionary violence, free love, desire to see governments overthrown by force or conspiracy, etc. as you or anyone else can possibly be. The phrases taken out of their context give an absolutely false impression of his views.
In closing I desire to protect against the travesty of patriotism implied in your statement that appeals to patriotism are inseparable from battles and military characters. Was Jefferson no patriot? Was there no patriotism in Lincoln's life before the war broke out or in Washington's afterward? Have soldiers alone served their country? I cannot think so poorly of patriotism.
I shall be most happy to answer any questions, and remain,
Very truly yours,
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