Draft of Gridiron Dinner Remarks by President Harry S. Truman

THINK 12-15-45 ARCHUVES AND Julia Srederon Dimer BECARDS This is a great privilege. I have been here before as a United States Senator from Missouri - a Junior Senator. It was my good luck to hear President Roosevelt on those occasions express himself at his best. He told you gentlemen of the press exactly what he thought of you - and made you like it. I have not his ability of expression, but I shall tell you what I think of you, of the entertainment, of the food, the country, the guests, etc. I have enjoyed the evening - that goes without saying. I always enjoy myself in your company - whether with the Hard Rockers who are said to be close to Truman or with the Soft Muckers who are said not be so close to him. I enjoyed Governor Dewey's speech very much. You know I did not have the pleasure of meeting the Governor until October 27, 1945. I met him then on the main deck of the Battleship Missouri, and he took my breath away by announcing that I had made a good speech in Central Park on foreign affairs and he whole- heartedly approved it. He dieagreed with Mr. Luce and Time on that subject. I am returning the compliment to Mr. Dewey. I wonder if I could cry on your shoulder a bit about public service in reconversion and what happens to a Vice President when he falls heir to a great President and two wars' ends all in one fell swoop. You know in wartime men and women are patriotic -