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Happy Truman says, "I hope I deserve it"

By JOHN L. CUTTER

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Nov. 3, 1948 (UP) - Humble and greatly excited, President Truman greeted his cheering staff and friends five minutes after a press service flash informed him that Thomas E. Dewey had conceded the election.

In his presidential suite in the Hotel Muehlebach, the President embraced his brother, J. Vivian Truman.

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Outside a cheer boomed through the 11th floor corridor and into the presidential suite.

Within a few minutes, the presidential secretary, Matthew J. Connelly, threw open the penthouse door and a stream of well-wishers paraded in to shake the President's hand.

Truman told his close friends as he shook hands, that: "I just want to deserve the honor."

Secret Service men made no attempt to restore order. It was "The Boss'" big moment, and they allowed him to enjoy it to the fullest.

To photographers, the President grinned and said:

"Well, it's four more years and a lot more film."

Vivian Truman was greatly affected by the news. As he and his famous brother stood, with arms around each other's shoulders in the initial minutes of triumph, Vivian trembled visibly with emotion.

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