THE LETTERS OF RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS

From R. Vaughan Williams,
The White Gates,
Westcott Road,
Dorking.

June 27 [c.1941]

Dear Farjeon

Re Walter HAAS

My committee¹ are only allowed to recommend for release from internment under Category 20 musicians “of eminent distinction who have made outstanding contributions to art” – But the H.O.² have made a concession and will consider cases of young musicians of decided talent or promise. Our terms of reference do not include questions of personal character and loyalty.
Would you send me a statement (as favourable as possible!) of your opinion as to his abilities & promise which I can quote to the H.O.
Yrs

R. Vaughan Williams

1. VW chaired a committee advising the Home Office on the release of interned foreign musicians during the war. See VWL1468, footnote.
2. i.e. Home Office