Withdrawal

In the absence of Congress, a letter entered Washington:

Dearborn, Mich.

President Calvin Coolidge, The White House, Washington, D. C.

My dear Mr. Coolidge--On July 8, 1921, there was submitted to the War Department, upon their invitation to the writer, an offer for leasing the Government property at Muscle Shoals.

After many conferences, hearings, etc., this proposal was amended on Jan. 25, 1922, in which form it is still pending in Congress. Inasmuch as so much time has already elapsed we are unable to wait and delay what plans we have any longer for action by Congress; and I am, consequently, asking that you consider this as a withdrawal of said offer.

Very truly yours, (Signed) HENRY FORD

And another letter left Washington:

The White House, Washington, Oct. 18, 1924.

My dear Mr. Ford--Your letter withdrawing your offer for the purchase of Muscle Shoals has been received. On account of the delay and probable shifting in conditions, I can understand how you may feel justified in not keeping your offer open for a longer period. I trust, however, that should the Congress conclude that it is best to restore this property to private ownership, you will at that time renew your interest in the project.

Very truly yours, (Signed) CALVIN COOLIDGE Hon. Henry Ford Dearborn, Mich.

The Ford offer was accepted by the House (TIME, Mar. 17), received the endorsement of President Coolidge (TIME, May 19). Other Muscle Shoals bids now before Congress (and accepted by neither the House nor the Senate) include those of Hooker-White- Atterbury, the Allied Power Companies, the Union Carbide (TIME, April 28, May 12). Pending in the Senate also is a report from the Committee on Agriculture recommending a bill framed by the Committee's Chairman, Senator Norris. The Norris Bill (TIME, June 9) provides for continued Government ownership, gives the option of Government or private operation.