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Mr. Farris Bryant
Post Office Box l773
Ocala. Florida

Dear Farris:

A friend of ours was talking with Matty Matthews the other
day in Washington in regard to the present governors race. As
you know. Matty has been identified with George Smathers for quite
some time, and Smathers is responsible (or him being in Washington.
From the conversation this friend had with Matty I gathered that the
talk among the Florida delegation in Washington is principally for
Carlton. but there is some talk for you. It seems that Carlton is
considered to be the favorite of the kingomakers, and the Washingtou
crowd feels that Collins is strang for Carltou. but playing it cosy .

Matty told this friend that Smathers considered himself close
to you and McCarty. but Matty didn't know what relationship existed
between Smathers and Carlton. Smathers has not been outspoken in
Washington and is continuing his role as the great soloist.

Again 1 would like to impress upon you how important I feel
it is that you once more attempt to cement your former relationship
with Smathers. I feel too that the time has come again when you
should arrange another interview with Jack Knight and his staff at
the Miami Herald, and suggest also that you arrange an interview
with Jim Cox. Dan Mahoney. Bill Baggs and their staffs at the
Miami News .

At this stage of the game I don't think we should take for
granted that both the News and the Herald are going to endorse others .
It certainly appears that the Herald is going to endorse Carlton.
however and that the News is wavering between Carlton and McCarty.
On the other hand. I believe both of these papers recognise you as a

Mr. Ferris Bryant March 17. 1960
- Page No -

very strong candidate and I don't think either of them would like to
see you elected without their lupport.
I think it in possible that you can win without the support of

either Miami paper, however. your election could be ensured with
the support of one or the other of the-e two paper-I .

With warm regards, I am.

Sincerely ,
Pei-tine Pelmer Jr .
PPJr/h

cc: Robert M. Morgnn
Marion E Sibley