If You Ask Me
by Eleanor Roosevelt

The moment a candidate announces his candidacy, he is under attack from the other side. If he does not announce too soon, he can develop a following or express his views without having them under the same kind of attack as they would be if he were an avowed candidate. Anyone can say that, if unanimously named or drafted, he will have to take the nomination; but it is only in the case of a very few people that this is really a possibility. At the present time, the only person in the Democratic Party who might be appealed to if there were a real stalemate is Mr. Stevenson. Since the Republican Party has only two likely candidates, it has little chance of such a stalemate.

If it is someone I do not know, it has no effect on me. If it is someone I am fond of or respect, I am deeply sad.

Yes, I think exhibitions such as these two probably make a real contribution and increase the understanding of people about conditions of life and the hopes and aspirations in both countries. They will not give us peace, but perhaps they will give us some of the knowledge we need to help us in working for peace.

Divorce certainly is not solely responsible for juvenile delinquency. There are many other considerations. A happy, united home is obviously the best place for a child to grow up; but often, even in happy homes, there have been failures in the upbringing of children—sometimes because of lack of discipline or lack of understanding of a particular child's needs. I think if a father and mother can stay together happily, even though they may have to make certain compromises, it is better for the child. But a child is not better off if the home is going to be an unhappy one.

Complacency and a lack of recognition of the contributions made by other nations in the areas in which they have something to offer.

I did not know anyone doubted the wisdom of the community-fund idea. I think it has great merit; but when certain organizations cannot get sufficient allocations through a community fund, they are forced to try to get more money on their own, and I think this should not be forbidden them. No, I never get tired of being approached for contributions. I am just sorry I never have quite enough money to make all the contributions I would like to make.

My wardrobe is, I suppose, what most older women have in the way of clothes. We usually have fewer kinds than a younger woman, because it does not matter much what one wears so long as one looks neat and tidy. I have frequently been in the position of not having what might be considered proper for a special occasion, but I usually find that if I wear something very simple and inconspicuous, I can get by.

Yes, but I have rarely traveled all by myself. I think a trip is far pleasanter with a companion or companions I enjoy being with.