Mr. Tavenner. You are aware now, are you not, that he has been identified by a number of witnesses as a member of the Communist Party?
Mr. O’Connell. I couldn’t say that I know that precisely; but I do know he was indicted as a Smith Act defendant in Seattle.
Mr. Tavenner. And convicted.
Mr. O’Connell. And convicted. I don’t know whether he is in prison now.
Mr. Tavenner. Do you recall what individual it was in the National Lawyers Guild who solicited an award from the trustees?
Mr. O’Connell. Well, my best recollection as far as that would be concerned is that it was Mr. Martin Popper, who was an attorney in New York.
Mr. Tavenner. Did the executive secretary of the National Lawyers Guild take any part in representations or solicitations regarding the grant?
Mr. O’Connell. I think Mr. Silberstein (Robert J. Silberstein), I wouldn’t remember correctly. It is hard for me to remember. I would say Mr. Silberstein actually probably prepared the actual application that was made to the foundation for a grant.
Mr. Tavenner. Did he confer with you about the matter?
Mr. O’Connell. I can never even remember Bob Silberstein talking to me about a grant for the Lawyers Guild. As I remember the particular grant, it was made in connection with labor work that the guild was doing, and Mr. Martin Popper, as I remember it, was the one who actually made the presentation, at least I know he talked to me and I think to some of the other trustees.