March 19, 1959
Dear Friends:
The response to my note of March 6, 1959 concerning Demerec's successor has been as follows:
Beadle advises caution; may be able to contact someone in Haskins' office.
Caspari suggests consulting Demerec before offering Haskins support and advice.
Delbruck wouldn't participate, but suggests a possible letter to Chairman of L. I. Biological Association, for transmission to Haskins.
Dobzhansky advises against letter.
Dunn is against action now.
Glass suggests personal talks to Haskins at National Academy meeting.
Lederberg would sign a letter.
Mayr has written to Haskins (he knows him well).
Muller suggests asking advice of someone well acquainted with Haskins. Would sign letter.
Roman suggests Beadle as contact; advices emphasis on and tribute to Demerec's outstanding success.
Stern approves of cautious letter expressing interest and desire to be of help.
(Giles not heard from.)
In view of the predominant advice against writing collectively, I simply pass on to you the various suggestions (personal contacts or letters to Haskins; contacts with Demerec or McClintock) for possible personal actions.
I shall be away after April third for eight weeks.
Best regards,
S. E. Luria
Rhoades and Sonneborn advise against letter; suggest contact to Barbara.