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what was in the wind (I fear through an Ex. Co. leak), and protested strongly to me most improperly. I explained this development to Ex. Co. (Douglas Clague remained conspicuously red in the face but silent) and again, to my surprise, the unofficials all supported the line I was taking, which they thought was in everybody's interests, and stressed how ill advised the JPs would be to make a fuss about a tradition that was clearly anomalous. If these changes were to be made, the easiest time would be now, soon after my arrival.
How this will eventually turn out I cannot tell. The change certainly is not worth a major row indeed the whole object of it is to avoid one but if it can be carried through quietly I think it would prove a useful piece of modernisation and removal of a potential source of criticism.
This long letter is to put you in the picture. I would also be grateful if Research Department could be asked to confirm that they know of nothing which places the Governor under official obligation to call for nominations from either the JPS or the General Chamber of Commerce.
You
My
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