Item 5 - Autograph letter signed to Beaton, from Vermont

Letter reporting on Beaton's various friends and their doings. Praises Clare Luce. Lists her various activities. Since the outbreak of war, they have been at variance about every political and international issue. Luce has been patient and loyal despite this. Comments on the spirit of intolerance that has ruled supreme since Pearl Harbour. Admires Winston Churchill's recognition of the need for national unity. Praises Franklin Roosevelt's efforts to temper inner-political passions. Describes weekend with Luce and Iris. Pleaded with Luce not to publish her book, "Europe in the Spring", as he felt that it cruelly ridiculed the French and English. However, the book was popular in America and successful in England. Kommer was amazed and felt something must be wrong in his head, as he was alone in his disgust. Luce forgave him for his advice and told him that Beaton had given her hell for the book. Feels comforted that Beaton felt the same about it as he did. Gives news of Mona. Discusses Harrison's age and kindness. He was a stolid isolationist but since Pearl Harbour, has become a steady patriot. Describes Natasha and praises her femininity. Gives news of Dorothy and Bill. Describes Tilly's efforts to return to England and gives tidings of her activities. Gives report of Liz, Raimund and Doris. The war has not been kind to Doris and she has become very bitter. Nicolas Nabokoff has married.