Viewing page 182 of 547

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

wont be "empty."  But it will be practically empty of everything except things of this sort - and after all, that is what he wants, I presume.  I am in a rather awkward position when it comes to actually doing things because I have no real authority, and particularly when Henry has his hands on everything - and after all, Henry is my boss when Whitey's away.  I notice Henry isn't inclined to do very much with Whitey's stuff - would prefer to leave it for Whitey's return.  I have managed to dispose of some of these things with Miss Giblin's help (and she is okay).  I think Henry is rather coasting - but he's a great old boy.  I like him and I get a great kick out of him.  And what a lot I have to absorb from him in the coming year or so!  The trouble is most of it is in his head and the only way I can get it, is talking to him.  Fortunately, Henry is a great talker and has a wonderful memory so I'm hopeful of learning a lot just by a gradual infiltration process in talking plenty to him.

Erie, Pa.,
Thursday, April 25, 1940.
The tension eased again today and I had a very fine talk with Henry which gave me more confidence about my ability to handle his job eventually.  I'm just wallowing around now, picking up dope here and there and getting an idea of what I don't know, which is valuable in helping me chart a program of education.  Art Packer told me he "knows what Whitey has in mind" and he will do all he can to help, which I appreciated.  I believe enough has been seen by the boys by this time, to know something is in the wind and they must be able to guess what.