114

[cut off text]: Falls Church
Virginia

November 29, 1953

M. Joseph Bradley
Algona, Iowa

Dear Joe:

I must apologize for not writing sooner, but the simple truth is that I could not. For one thing, I was too busy; but, more importantly, I was afraid to open my big fat head for fear that I would talk too much. For I have been engaged in work of great secrecy---the preparation of the brief for the Attorney General in the school segregation cases.

It is out. As of last Friday, the gentlemen in charge screwed their courage up to the sticking point and filed it. I am very proud of my part in it, as number four on the totem pole. We---there were five of us on the project under the direction of Mr. J. Lee Rankin, Assistant Attorney General, who was under Mr? Brownell---that's no typo, son---we wrote a beautiful brief. The story of exactly how it came to be written is one I will tell you when I see you, but it is very interesting. As you may have read, the Attorney General has concluded that racial segregation in schools "may" violate the Fourteenth Amendment; and the brief he has filed conclusively demonstrates that fact.

Particularly is it conclusive if you read the parts other than the conclusions. Over those, we had little control.

Anyhow, as a result of my brilliant efforts on that brief, I am to be offered a permanent job in the Department, in Mr. Rankin's Office of Legal Counsel. And, as a result of my interesting experiences on that brief, I don't want it. More than ever, I want out where I can flip my wig with all other good men. I may not be able to voice my dislike with more fervor than many of the Iowa boys; but I bet I can do it with more knowledge. This administration is full of the most consummate hypocrisy that is possible.

But, wanting to get there, and getting there, are two different things. I have been writing to Ladd, who seems to think there are possibilities there, and suggests that I come out and look around. I will, but not for a month or two. That will give me time to clear away some loose ends here, and make preparations to liquidate out what I have here. Then, barring a loss of courage, or a major depression, I'll be seeing you.

In the meanwhile, should you hear of anything in the way of an opportunity for a very tire lawyer, let me know. After three months, day and night, Sundays and holidays, I'm weary. But, having filed the brief, I listen to the howls from the Dixiecrats with pleasure, indeed ecstasy.

Sincerely,

John