An Interview With Arthur Schlesinger

After spending most of the afternoon cursing at busy signals from the office of Arthur Schlesinger, Jr., we encountered the rumored presidential appointee crossing Massachusetts Avenue at 6 p.m. last night. The dialogue went something like this:

"Mr. Schlesinger, could you tell us whether History 169 will be given in the spring?"

"I believe it will, yes."

"Well, could you tell us who will teach it?"

"I don't know that as yet; it's not certain."

Will you teach it?"

"I don't know that as yet; it's not certain."

By now a little uncertain ourselves, we asked: "Can you announce your appointment, Mr. Schlesinger?"

"No, I'm sorry, I can't."

"Well, can you comment on your plans for next term?"

"My guess is that I will be here next term ... but I will say this: a few days ago I was sure that I would be here next term."

"When can you tell us your plans definitely?"

"By January 20."

Schlesinger declined our offer to bet that he would not be in Cambridge on January 20.