Dear Marvin:

Not having corresponded with you in a long time, I should probably begin with the usual social amenities. Please, therefore, consider them exchanged, executed, and done with.

The reason for my writing is to make a confidential inquiry of you. You know the complicated situation that prevails in England with regard to the Principalship of Jews' College. The situation is quite critical, and the right man in that position can, by a kind of chain reaction, have a profound effect on the future course of Anglo-Jewry.

I am anxious to make a recommendation to Chief Rabbi Brodie who, I know, will give my proposal very serious consideration.

The search seems to center on you. You have, to my mind, all the necessary qualifications for the position, and I think it will give you the kind of forum which will be proper for your own talents, ambitions, and principles.

I need not, and perhaps cannot, elaborate to any greater extent at this time. I do think that it is a tremendous opportunity in a situation which can have historic consequences. I would want your agreement in writing that you would be willing to consider an invitation. This, of course, does not bind you to any eventual agreement. If I can receive your consent to this point by return mail, I will feel free in contacting Rabbi Brodie immediately.

Of course, all these negotiations will be held in strictest confidence by me and by the people in England, as I know it will be by you.

All best regards to June and the children.

Cordially yours,

Rabbi Norman Lamm