September 11, 1979
Dear Dr. Crick:
Thank you for your letter of September 5th.
Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Rosalind, I know from a number of her colleagues and from the books written about her, that you were a good friend to her.  You were especially kind during her illness and, had she lived a few years longer, she would most likely have received the recognition she deserved.  However, your article reflects the fact that you have never accepted her as a first-class scientist.  You mention her not in association with the Kings College data which you found so encouraging, but only as a person who obstructed progress.  In particular, you stress that she was "too determined to be scientifically sound" although all researchers strive for scientific soundness.  I would have had the same negative reaction to such singling out of any scientist, regardless of gender.
I would be most interested in Dr. Klug's response to your letter.
Sincerely yours,
Charlotte Friend, Ph.D.
Professor
Director, Center for Experimental Cell Biology