In the mid-1970s, the CIA was accused of assassination plots and orchestrating coups in foreign countries. Bush – then serving as chief of the liaison office to the People's Republic of China – was asked to become the director of the agency in 1975.
To Secretary Kissinger and for the President through Secretary Kissinger:
Your message came as a total and complete shock.... Here are my heartfelt views.
First, I wish I had some time to talk to one or two close friends about this matter.
Second, I do not have politics out of my system entirely and I see this as the total end of any political future.
Third, I cannot from out here, half way around the world, measure the mood on the Hill as to my nomination for this new job.
Fourth, I sure wish I had time to think and sort things out....
If this is what the President wants me to do the answer is a firm "YES." ...
For the President – Thank you for this honor. I will work my heart out.
