Grasping Reality on TypePad, by Brad DeLong

George Marshall to Colonel William H. Draper, Jr., November 15, 1944: "To Colonel William H. Draper, Jr.1

Dear Draper:

I just learnt yesterday that your boy had been lost in France and I want you to know that you have my deep sympathy. This war has reached a stage where it is sparing few families in this country and I fear that worse is still to come before we reach a victorious conclusion.

I have had you in mind for a long time, feeling that you had suffered very hard luck in being deprived of troop opportunity. However, General Somervell tells me the services you are now rendering are of such great importance that he does not feel that he can release you at the present time. Should an opportunity arise you may be sure that I will try to further your chances for overseas service.

Again with my sympathy,

Faithfully yours,