President Truman was known to send razor-sharp barbs in letters to his detractors, the most famous of which was to a music critic who panned a performance by Truman’s daughter.
Mr Hume:
I’ve just read your lousy review of Margaret’s concert. I’ve come to the conclusion that you are an “eight ulcer man on four ulcer pay.”
It seems to me that you are a frustrated old man who wishes he could have been successful. When you write such poppy-cock as was in the back section of the paper you work for it shows conclusively that you’re off the beam and at least four of your ulcers are at work.
Some day I hope to meet you. When that happens you’ll need a new nose, a lot of beefsteak for black eyes, and perhaps a supporter below!
Pegler, a gutter snipe, is a gentleman alongside you. I hope you’ll accept that statement as a worse insult than a reflection on your ancestry.
H.S.T.
Truman later withdrew the letter and apologised. Those were more genteel days than we have.
I was reminded of this letter when I read the following letter to Democrat senator Schumer from his president. Those who deride Trump and worship Truman will need to admit Truman’s language was salty by comparison.
No Minister 