Document 3Qdap6V4j50zo1x9X79YdM2MJ

May 5* 1949 M r . T R . A . Sevan * The associated Ethyl Company Limited, Artillery House, Artillery Rev* London* S. . 1, England. Dear Fay* Thanks very much ior your- comprehensive letter of April 20 It has made me feel quite certain that there Is no very urgent reason for my visiting you this summer. Consequently unless something arises that would change your mind on this score* I should postpone any such trip until the summer of 1950* As X indicated previously I was only concerned to assist you to the extent you felt it necessary, and therefore whenever such a need arises you need have no hesitation in letting me know. I shall always be prepared to do my best on your behalf* I cannot give you any specific information on when it would be con venient for me to be away in the summer of 1950. All I can say i3 that it lias been my general practice to be here up until the first of August, and for all I know at present, this is still the best arrangement of my time. I am still looking forward to your coming to the United States, and I hope you will let me know as soon as you learn when you will come. I too was shocked by the death of Arch Maxwell, for I had no warning of any serious illness. I saw Oscar Lewis last week at a meeting in Cincinnati, and he told me of his projected trip to visit you. I have noted the date of his departure and I shall probably have some messages to send by him. One thing in particular, however, would be advantageous to emphasise in his mind as a message fgem yourself. I am somewhat distressed at; times by the apparent? tare less attitude of acme of our people toward engaging in commercial activities beyond the confines of the United States. I realize the difficulties of the situation, but the policy which should apply in all such situations, in my feeling, is that no commercial activities should be engaged in in any part of the world by Ethyl Corporation unless it is prepared to provide such advice and supervision as may be required to insure the safety of personnel who have occasion to handle `Ethyl" fluid. You and I have realized, over the period of years, that this is a bit difficult to do. That is certainly no good reason why Ethyl Corporation should be deficient in its provisions for this matter. I have no idea what the D u Pont group will do, but I feel quite certain that this problem is fraught with difficulties for all of us during the years that are to come. I would like to nee an intelligent viewpoint developed and maintained consis tently. I believe that your group can give some aid in making point of this, as a threat to the entire industry. I believe that Oscar would faithfully bring back such a message, and if he expressed it Mr. T. R. A. Sevan - (2) - May 5* 19^9 as being hia own viewpoint, It might serve a useful purpose. Vith kindest regards and the anticipation of seeing you soon, I am Sincerely yours, HAS ef Copy by Air Mail. Original by steamer. Robert A. lelioe, M' D* '.,I'1T