Document qkQBx6KN8eJG9DQmNzaVMKZ7n

July 11, 1928 Mr. E. W. Webb, Ethyl Gasoline Corp*, 25 Broadway, ITew York City. My dear Mr. Webbs I hesitate somewhat to be continually referring to an uncomfortable subject, but I am very anxious to know whether you have heard anything from the Standard Oil of Indiana as to what they may be thinking of doing as result of our conference In Chicago some time ago. I have heard nothing from them and I can not but wonder whether they are allowing the entire matter to ride more or less indefinitely. I hope this is not the ease but I can not avoid . being somewhat skeptical as to their good intentions. I do not pre sume to suggest to you what should be done, but since I am going out of the country at a very early date I should be happy Indeed to kav; that some steps are under way to bring about the changes which trouble us and which may indeed prove somewhat embarrassing to us. lor can I feel perfectly easy in my mind as to the safety of the men who are working In some of these plants, since I know that under the conditions of summer work they are doing a great deal of mixing and in some instances almost every day. During the next several weeks I shall not be able to plan work which will occupy Mr. Slebenthaler*s time very satisfactori ly, and it would indeed be a very fine arrangement if this occasion could be used to employ him In giving them such aid and assistance as is necessary In straightening out these plants. Mr. Siebenthaler knows very well Indeed what I think ought to be done at these plants and I am perfectly willing to rely upon his judgment In deciding just \vhat things should b done. If the opportunity affords itself, therefore, for him to undertake this work in co-operation with them it would be very well indeed, and tinder these conditions it would not be at all necessary for me to have anything to do personally with the overseeing of the changes or rather with the Inspection of the plants after the changes are effected. If they work with him there will be no question but that the changes that are made will be satisfactory. 1 suggest this In part because since I will be out of the country it will be Impossible for them to have my suggestions In detail, and partly because the offering of his services to them might afford a means of re-opening the subject without appearing to force their hand too vigorously. I should wish to avoid doing the latter 3ince I realize that to arouse their antagonism In any way would delay matters rather than hasten them. Very truly yours, 0001257 BAK-.EJ mu