Oral history transcript, James R. Jones, interview 3 (III), 6/11/1972, by Joe B. Frantz

Starting work for Marvin Watson; Jones’ work responsibilities; logging White House calls; LBJ cutting expenses; turning off the lights at the White House; reviewing FBI reports on prospective hires/appointees; LBJ’s desire to appear honest and stable; organizing advance operations; LBJ’s 1965 trip to Mexico; LBJ’s last-minute travel plans; LBJ’s around-the-world trip; Manila Conference; LBJ’s interest in Southeast Asia and Latin America; going to Adenauer’s funeral in Germany; domestic trips to support congressional candidates and for non-political reasons; the credibility gap; LBJ as a captive president; LBJ’s respect for the role of presidency; LBJ’s trips to the Ranch; LBJ taking the advice of numerous people; each staff member perceiving his influence on LBJ to be greater than it actually was; LBJ’s love of telephones; LBJ’s “earthy” language and storytelling ability; LBJ’s private nature; LBJ’s relationship with the press; night reading; keeping LBJ’s schedule.