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Frances PerkinsFrances Perkins
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I said, “I don't know why, but between you and me, Henry, I think it's best for people like you and me not to know the ‘why' of things like that. Prior commitments--I don't know what, but anyhow, that's what he said.

Of course this was at a time when, you know, they were having difficulties getting people to take State. Stettinius was no great man. He was an awfully nice man and a good fellow, but he was no great world-beater.

By the way, have I told you about the time Cordell Hull went to Russia? You better call me back on that. Stettinius makes me think of that occasion. And have I told you about my dealings with the Russian ambassador? I mean the big heavy one who's been in the U.N.--Gromyko? Oh well then, be sure and remind me, because I was very busy about that for two years. But that's prior to this election, and I'm telling you now the Jones story.

So I talked with Henry, and he said, “Well, this is very embarrassing, you know, because after all, these posts are all filled with people.”

I said, “The President said you could have anything you want except State.”

Well, he discussed several things, and then he said, Well, frankly, if I can't have State, I would like Commerce. I think I would like to be Secretary of Commerce.”





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