William Jennings Bryan to Woodrow Wilson

We have so little time to talk over diplomatic matters, and so many things to confer about when we get together, that with your approval, I will follow the example you have set in writing about matters between conferences.
I think it is quite important that we find a minister to China as soon as it can be conveniently done. You were making some inquiry in regard to a Professor Ross, of Wisconsin. Have you found out about the matters concerning which you were uncertain? If, for any reason, you decide that he is not available, what would you think of Governor Folk for this place? The Governor is one of the first men who occured to me for this position. He has had official prominence, he has a national reputation, he is progressive and was friendly to you before the convention. He would be a valuable avdisor to the Chinese leaders in matters relating to the fundamental principles of popular government, and he is identified with the religious life of the nation, and would, I am sure, be acceptable to the missionaries. I venture to mention him for your consideration, if your mind ias not already settled upon somebody.
Professor Droppers, who holds the chair of Economics at Williams College, Williamstown, Massachusetts, is, I believe, an aspirant for a diplomatic mission. New England is not very largely represented so far in the matter of appointments. Do you know Professor Droppers personally? It seems to me, from what I have heard, that he is worth considering. Senator Hollis, of New Hampshire, has endorsed a man who impresses me very favorably, and Hollis is so staunch a supporter of progressive doctrines that you may think it best to favor him in a matter of this kind.