Typed Document Signed

This Norwegian-born American politician and journalist served Minnesota as Congressman for 16 terms between 1917 and 1949; from 1919 to 1923 he served as majority whip. TDS, 2pp (separate leaves), 8" X 10½",n.p., 17 May 1937. Very good. Two faint horizontal original folds; inoffensive staple holes at upper left and upper right corners. Double-spaced text of a speech given by Knutson "Over National Hookup, Columbia Broadcasting System and Short Wave to Norway." He begins, "This day has a deep significance for those of us who can boast of Norse blood. It is our natal day and marks the anniversary of the adoption of the organic law of Old Norway. Today thousands of Americans of Norse ancestry are gathered to commemorate that great event...." He continues along these patriotic lines, and with the Nazi threat looming and World War Two on the horizon he closes with "It is our hope and prayer that Norway, the cradle of modern democracy, will remain true to her best traditions and we who live in America will continue to be proud that the blood of dauntless Vikings courses through our veins." Signed boldly in blue fountain pen ink at the conclusion. Most unusual -- and likely the original typescript from which Knutson read.