NEWS CONFERENCE 841

hate, who spew forth exhortations to burn and kill, must bear the
responsibility for the deranged few who cross the line from talk to
action.

If our nation is to live in freedom, we must firmly resolve to put
down violence in all the forms in which it exists and overcome the
attitudes which have allowed it to flourish.

My deepest sympathy goes out to the courageous Kennedy family.
It is unbelievable that one staunch group should be again asked to
bear the pain of the ultimate loss — violent death to one of its own.

I also sent a personal telegram of condolence to Mrs. Kennedy and
I notice the President has declared that Sunday will be a national day
of mourning. I would like to call the attention of the citizens of
Maryland to the fine statement in that respect and add my entreaty
to the President's that we do observe a national day of mourning which
will also automatically become a State day of mourning, this Sunday.

I have one other statement to make concerning the terrible tragedy
that has befallen us. The Republican State Convention was scheduled
to go into session this Saturday. Because of the death of Senator
Kennedy, Mr. Dukert, the State Chairman, will announce shortly
that a new date for the convening has been set. The Convention will
not be held on Saturday nor will the dinner originally scheduled for
that date.

If we are ready to move to another subject: Concerning the recent
fiscal emergency, at my instruction, Mr. Slicher, the State Budget
Director, has issued the following letter to all department heads:

To All Department Heads:

In accordance with the instructions of the Governor, all posi-
tions currently vacant as well as those that become vacant and
including new positions allowed in the 1969 fiscal year, which are
supported by General Funds, are to remain unfilled until further
notice.

Each department head is to take appropriate steps to com-
pletely eliminate or drastically curtail attendance at out-of-State
conventions and meetings.

The replacement or purchase of additional equipment is to be
screened thoroughly and only those items of an emergency nature
should be bought.