I just read an article in the IHT quoting you on pulbic diplomacy. I used to run the American Cultural Center in Paris from 1971 to 76, just the kind of cultural program now recommended in the article. We used to do it and I quite the US Diplomatic Service because it was obvbious that the government was closing down all cultural activity. A lot of time has been lost and effort wasted. It's almost inevitable that people would come around again to understand that all cultural activity is very long term, based on shared values, trust and honestly. Too bad it took so long, but I still don't think they can do it. How can a government that can't be honest with its own people be expected to be honest with foreigners?

I would be very happy to help you in your new book if I can. As someone who was in the center of some of the bitterest fights about culture in the early 70's, I might have some insights that could help you.