William M. Calder to Woodrow Wilson

.Because of my absence from the city, your letter of yesterday did not reach me until today; and I hasten now to respond. You may be sure that I shall not lend myself to any movement to delay considering the confirmation of Mr. Bainbridge Colby's appointment as member of the Shipping Board.
I have been deeply interested in the work of this Board, and have been naturally hopeful that the men best equipped for this work should be obtained.
The law itself provides that the members shall be selected with due regard to their fitness for the discharge of the duties imposed upon them. I am acquainted with Mr. Colby; and while I entertain the highest regard for his integrity and capacity as an attorney, from all information obtainable it does not seem that he has had any experience whatever in shipping matters, and for that reason, frankly, Mr. President, I cannot support his confirmation.
Appreciating very much your courtesy in writing me, I am, with great respect,