To the Editor of the Crimson:
We thought that you might be interested in the following letter mailed this evening to President Conant. Sincerly, David P. Bennett '42, for the Exec. Committee.
Dear President Conant:
Last fall it was your opinion that the question of American entrance into the war was only a question of "strategy," last Sunday you stated that "strategy demands we fight tomorrow, honor and self interest that we fight before the British Isles are lost." We of the Harvard Student Union, after careful thought, have found it impossible to concur in your undoubtedly well considered opinion, and we believe that the majority of the student body agrees with us that American democracy can best be preserved by non-involvement in this war.
We have no money for radio time, we have no press to provide its powerful editorial support, or even report our viewpoint fairly. We have no way to present our views to the people, who we believe stand with us, and have a right to be heard.
In order that both views may be heard, in order that you may have the opportunity to speak directly to the students, and in order that the students may be in a position to discuss the question directly with you, we urgently request that you set a day and a time when you will be able to debate with a representative of a large section of student opinion. Mr. Herbert Witt, the executive-secretary of the American Student Union, has expressed his willingness to represent our point of view in such a debate.
In this way alone is it possible for you to present to the students your point of view and at the same time allow those of us who find it impossible to agree with you to present ours.
We sincerely hope that you will find the short time necessary within the next week to carry on this debate--a debate designed to make live the democracy of which you so often speak. We would appreciate a reply by Wednesday or Thursday of this week so that we can make arrangements with Mr. Witt, and would be glad to see you at your earliest convenience to complete arrangements. Very truly yours, Executive Committee Harvard Student Union. David Bennett, President.
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