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unpacked it again to listen to Willkie's acceptance speech at Elwood, Ind. and we were all greatly impressed by the simple, honest, clearly presented talk he gave - no flowery language that means nothing - no orating - we all felt, I think, that here is the man who always rises in a time of crisis to save the country - here is the man we need - almost God-sent. The only sensational thing about the speech was his challenge to Roosevelt to debate public questions with him on the same platform throughout the country, Lincoln-Douglas style. The concensus of opinion is Roosevelt will decline on grounds of lack of time because of his presidential duties. Personally I think he could spare some of his inspection trips and meet Willkie. Whatever he does, I think this move of Willkie's is a smart one.

This evening we played some desultory bridge - the first of the vacation - with the Tafts. The last evening is usually a sorry affair and this one was no exception. They leave tomorrow too.

Cazanovia, N.Y.
Sunday, Aug. 18, '40.

The Tafts left at 10 AM with another invitation to visit them in New York and I promised to try to get Willie down there this winter. The Commodore said to Willie, "If he doesn't you let me know and I'll send you a wire, "Come at once stop girl with the big legs insists on dating your husband down here', and that'll bring you down."

We packed and shoved off at 11 AM on schedule - ate the fine lunch Patty packed for us, parked beside Brant Lake - and shoved through to Brown's