The intimate papers of Colonel House arranged as a narrative by Charles Seymour.

146 INTIMATE PAPERS OF COLONEL HOUSE

shocked to see him looking so worn. The change since January last is terribly marked, and you ought to try and
force him to take a week's complete rest the moment the
strain is relaxed- even at the sacrifice of some public
business.
You will be glad to know that already the atmosphere at
the Department of Agriculture has noticeably changed. I am
going to think quietly over what I have learned and shall
probably write you from Battle Creek a suggestion for a line
which, if taken by the President in his first annual message,
might greatly assist the Agricultural Department. You
would know whether to mention it to the President. Any
suggestions I may have from time to time for the Department I shall send direct to the Secretary....
With renewed thanks and kind remembrances to Mrs.
House, I am
Sincerely yours
HORACE PLUNKETT
Most characteristic is the following letter, which suggests
the remarkable position held by Colonel House. Mr. Lane
had in mind resigning from the Cabinet in case a certain
other high office should be opened to him. Quite obviously
he regarded House's approval as necessary, and yet his fondness for the Colonel was such that he was unwilling to embarrass him by approaching him directly.
Secretary Lane to Dr. S. E. Mezes
WASHINGTON, July 4, 1916
MY DEAR SID:... Now don't think me importunate or cheeky or impatient. I'm here to do my 'bit.' I'll stand guard all night
without a whimper. All I want is for you, in that superlatively tactful way of yours, to find out if my chances are
worth considering at this time - and if they are, will the