Ray Stannard Baker to Cary T. Grayson
Title
Ray Stannard Baker to Cary T. Grayson
Creator
Baker, Ray Stannard, 1870-1946
Identifier
WWP16742
Date
1933 July 29
Description
Ray Stannard Baker tells Grayson that he is glad to have a diagnosis from Dr. Bloedorn, but that he is concerned at how that will impact his work on the Woodrow Wilson biography. He is still planning to meet with FDR.
Source
Cary T. Grayson Papers, Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, Staunton, Virginia
Language
English
Text
Dear Friend
I went to Washington as I planned and had a thorough over-hauling by Dr. Bloedorn. I am glad to know exactly what my problem is and the regime which I shall have to follow. I confess that the prospect is not altogether cheerful. I suppose most human beings who are worth anything have sooner or later to face some such inevitable limitation. I think with new sympathy of Woodrow Wilson’s experiences during those hard last years.
My practical problem of course is whether I can go forward any longer with the biography. I have not only had the difficulty which Dr. Bloedorn finds, but I have been extremely tired all this spring. In order to do good literary work -- work that I can myself approve -- I have to maintain a concentration and intensity which is not only exhausting, but which seems to bring on the attacks which I am counseled to avoid. Mrs. Wilson, who is all sympathy and understanding, is of course most anxious for me to continue, as I am also, but I cannot and should not do it unless there is some prospect of getting into better shape. I am taking a rest for a time and then see how I feel.
I was sorry to miss seeing you for I have the greatest confidence in your advice, and comfort in your friendship.
I called up Secretary McIntyre at the White House, but the President was in such a whirl of engagements that there seemed no good opportunity of seeing him before he left for Hyde Park. With his overwhelming responsibilities it seemed indeed a crime to add another visit. Mr. McIntyre suggested that I call up later. I shall be glad to go over to Hyde Park -- the distance is not great from here -- or call the next time I am in Washington, if I can really be of any use. Of course I should tremendously like to see the man in action! I have not met him since the return from Paris on the George Washington in 1919.
Cordially yours,
Ray Stannard Baker
I went to Washington as I planned and had a thorough over-hauling by Dr. Bloedorn. I am glad to know exactly what my problem is and the regime which I shall have to follow. I confess that the prospect is not altogether cheerful. I suppose most human beings who are worth anything have sooner or later to face some such inevitable limitation. I think with new sympathy of Woodrow Wilson’s experiences during those hard last years.
My practical problem of course is whether I can go forward any longer with the biography. I have not only had the difficulty which Dr. Bloedorn finds, but I have been extremely tired all this spring. In order to do good literary work -- work that I can myself approve -- I have to maintain a concentration and intensity which is not only exhausting, but which seems to bring on the attacks which I am counseled to avoid. Mrs. Wilson, who is all sympathy and understanding, is of course most anxious for me to continue, as I am also, but I cannot and should not do it unless there is some prospect of getting into better shape. I am taking a rest for a time and then see how I feel.
I was sorry to miss seeing you for I have the greatest confidence in your advice, and comfort in your friendship.
I called up Secretary McIntyre at the White House, but the President was in such a whirl of engagements that there seemed no good opportunity of seeing him before he left for Hyde Park. With his overwhelming responsibilities it seemed indeed a crime to add another visit. Mr. McIntyre suggested that I call up later. I shall be glad to go over to Hyde Park -- the distance is not great from here -- or call the next time I am in Washington, if I can really be of any use. Of course I should tremendously like to see the man in action! I have not met him since the return from Paris on the George Washington in 1919.
Cordially yours,
Ray Stannard Baker
Original Format
Letter
To
Grayson, Cary T. (Cary Travers), 1878-1938
Files
Collection
Citation
Baker, Ray Stannard, 1870-1946, “Ray Stannard Baker to Cary T. Grayson,” 1933 July 29, WWP16742, Cary T. Grayson Papers, Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum, Staunton, Virginia.