February 12th, 1920.

Mr. Ira R. Noles,
Gastonia, N.C.

My dear Sir:-

I received your telegram and at once wired you that I would do everything possible to adjust the differences between the Randleman Manufacturing Company and its employees but on account of the pressure of other duties it is impossible for me to come to Gastonia at this time. My advice to you and your associates is to return to work at once and see if the situation cannot be adjusted while you are at work instead of while you are idle. A strike, like a lawsuit, is an expensive luxury, and my experience is that both sides will be more reasonable when the factory is running along and men can discuss things quietly than when there is a state of war between the parties. I do not see how you could lose any advantage by going back to work. I have always insisted that the laboring people have an unquestionable right to join any organization they may see fit, and I will do everything I can to protect them in the exercise of that right. Of course, I cannot pass upon the difference between the company and its employees until after I have consulted with both sides and can get all the facts. Pending an adjustment I advise all the laboring people to stay in a perfectly good humor, go back to work, make their living, and then if it should be necessary to strike you would be in a better position than otherwise.

Assuring you of my great desire to be of service to all parties concerned, I beg to remain,

Sincerely yours,

[unsigned]

B_G