May 15th, 1965
4193 Georgia Street
San Diego, California
Dear Bill,
Just
received a letter from Hazel Rice, saying G.S.O.
could not invite me to Toronto, for it would break a
precedent. First, I did not ask anyone in
G.S.O. for an invitation. I did mention to
Hazel down in Washington, D.C., that I was retired
and could not afford the trip and that I was going
to talk it over with you at Bedford Hills, which I
did, explaining my circumstances.
But,
since this has now come up in G.S.O., I do feel
quite hurt and slighted and unappreciated. I
do feel a special exception can be made as with Ebby
at two conventions. This is really a hard
letter to write.
Am listing a few unusual contributions I have made
over these 27 years as follows:
Am oldest active AA member
at group level. Did
contribute materially in all three of our A.A.
books, with phrases "God as you understand
Him" and "Only requirement for membership
is a desire to stop drinking," plus my own
story.
In 1939-40
period did sell more books to stores, doctors, etc.
than anyone. Did help in
1940, finance (200.00 stock) to keep Vesey Street
going. Carried the message to and help
organize original groups in Philadelphia, Baltimore,
Wilmington, and Harrisburg; plus half a dozen
neighborhood and hospital groups in Philadelphia and
San Diego. The Philly group was the first to
contribute to New York. Initiated
the plan for Judge Bok to get us inside The
Saturday Evening
Post,
And Bill, I am the only
one of the original members that has never bucked
publicly on any of your projects. Especially
in 1948-49, I stumped the state for your conference.
I do hope this does not sound braggadocious,
[sic] but these are facts as I see them.
In all these years, this is
the very first favor I have ever asked you or the
N.Y. office. Am now 68 and feel positive I
will not make the next convention. Also, this
is the first convention I have ever been asked to
speak or participate, so do hope you will find ways
and means to get me there.
After all, A.A. has only
given me life and peace of mind. Maybe I
should not expect more, but have only done it this
once in 27 years.
Our love to both you and
Lois as ever appreciated,
Jim
/s/
Jim