In the current [Carter] administration, who can use the White House swimming pool and tennis courts is decided at the very highest level. President Ford did not bother himself with such minor details. He let me swim in the pool. He only got upset when I tried to walk across the water.

I have been observing China for more than 30 years and am impressed how logically and wisely it tackles its problems. Obviously the international system could be unbalanced by China's rising power - if we don't prepare ourselves for the new competitive situation, that is. But it is an economic challenge, not aggression on the level of Hitler.

One has to remember that every progress that has been made towards peace in the Middle East has come under American leadership.

Henceforth the adequacy of any military establishment will be tested by its ability to preserve the peace.

Why should we flagellate ourselves for what the Cambodians did to each other?

When you travel as secretary, one problem you have is that the press comes with you and wants an immediate result because it justifies their trip. And sometimes the best result is that you don't try to get a result but try to get an understanding for the next time you go to them.

I have learned, as I wrote, that history must be discovered, not declared. It's an admission that one grows in life.