Mr. O’Connell. Well, I couldn’t say whether I remained a member all of that time. I don’t know.
Mr. Tavenner. During the course of the hearing before this committee the chairman read into the record minutes of an executive committee meeting of the American League for Peace and Democracy, held on January 23, 1939. I quote from what the chairman read into the record:
In connection with the legislative program it says: “Get lists of friendly Congressmen and have teas and luncheons for them.”
A further idea of how they proceed is shown in the minutes of January 13, 1939, of the meeting held at the home of Mrs. Fowler, as follows:
“It was suggested that we make an attempt to get Congressmen to join the league. Mr. Smith will arrange for a luncheon meeting with Marcantonio and Jerry O’Connell to get their views on how to proceed. The idea is to make Congressmen part of an impressive list of sponsors.”
and from the same minutes——
“Mr. Berrall announced a legislative office will be established in Washington over the weekend with Jerry O’Connell doing the congressional work and two assistants at the office.”
Will you explain what your activity was among Congressmen to solicit membership in the American League for Peace and Democracy?
Mr. O’Connell. When was this supposed to be?
Mr. Tavenner. The minutes of the executive meeting were January 13, 1939.
Mr. O’Connell. I was no longer a Member of Congress in 1939.
Mr. Tavenner. I didn’t say that you were.