Nixon off the record

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I began this project as a single book, a memoir of my four ex-traordinary years working with President Nixon. As it began totake shape, however, I realized that the story would be bettertold in two volumes: the first to focus on Nixon's views onAmerican leadership and the political process, and the second tochronicle his evolving thoughts on foreign policy and his finaljourney toward personal and political resurrection.

This first volume is a guide to twentieth century Americanpolitics and the leaders who defined it, past and present. As thecountry prepares to select another president, Nixon's views willgive voters uncommon criteria by which to measure the candi-dates and their ability to exercise effective leadership.

At the heart of the story is, of course, Nixon. I will be forevergrateful to him for giving me such an exceptional opportunity.The Nixon I knew was kind, trusting, magnanimous, warm, andwitty, willing to share his wisdom, experiences, joys, and regretsopenly and freely. He was a brilliant teacher and a fine man.

A first book is an exciting and daunting enterprise. Nixonoften referred to the writing of his first book, Six Crises, as his"seventh crisis." I now know what he meant.

I owe a great debt to many individuals who helped me as I de-veloped this project. For his wise counsel and kind support, Iwish to thank William Safire. For their early and enthusiasticencouragement, thanks to Frank Gaffney, Roger Robinson, andRinelda Bliss. For providing superb computer technology andtechnical support, thanks to Paul Palumbo of Network Integra-tion Consulting, Inc. And for his good-natured patience with afirst-time author, thanks to my agent, Carl Brandt.

I extend my deep appreciation to Harold Evans, president ofthe Random House Trade Group, for his faithful commitmentto the project, and to Bob Loomis, for his insightful editorial ad-vice and direction.

I am particularly grateful to my mother, Patricia, my sister,Jocelyn, my grandparents, Stanley and Florence Baron, and myuncle and aunt, Donald and Nancy Blanchette, for their re-markable generosity, guidance, encouragement, and support.They are truly selfless.