William G. McAdoo to Woodrow Wilson

Mr. Kitchin tells me that the bill for insurance on the lives of enlisted men in the Army and Navy may come before the House tomorrow, or, in any event, the next day, Saturday. Both he and Judge Adamson think a letter from you to the Judge would be extremely helpful. The bill as reported to the House reduces from $10,000, as proposed in the bill you approved, to $5,000, the amount of life insurance which the officers and enlisted men are privileged to take. I think this is a great mistake. I am told that the $10,000 limit will probably be restored upon the floor of the House. I think it would be wise if you would express the hope that this may be done.

I wish I could send you a tentative draft of a suitable letter, but I really never feel that I can suggest anything for you, as you can always do the job so much better than anyone else.

If you can find the time to read the enclosed article (altogether too long, I am sorry to say) which I have prepared for publication in the Sunday papers of September 9th, it will give you a general idea of the provisions of the bill and the angle from which I view it. Perhaps this may be helpful.

The letter to Judge Adamson should reach him before noon Friday. I enclose an opening paragraph which may be serviceable to you in identifying to Judge Adamson the bill concerning which you write.

Affectionately yours,

The President,
The White House.