Bakerton, West Virginia
April 12, 1948
Dear Sir:
I am a student at Harper’s Ferry High School, Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia. As you are a Professor in a higher institution of learning, I would like to ask two questions of you. One, concerning a view of the French Government, laissez-faire. It came up in our History class and as many different ways of looking at it were presented, none were sure including the teacher. This is the main reason why I am appealing to you for your knowledge and opinion. I have traced the meaning many times and from what I gather the government does little more for the people than organize for defense, maintain peace and security and administer justice.
The first question is, is Democracy and laissez-faire one and the same view or does the same reaction take place under a Democratic Government as would be the case under the view of laissez-faire.
The second question is do you think that our government is turning more or less toward a Socialized or Socialistic extreme.
Your opinion will be greatly appreciated and will help the class get more of an idea pertaining to these two theories of government.
Yours very truly,
Harold Welsh
Address: Harold Welsh
Bakerton, West Virginia