Hospitable and Engaging   

When I read the newspaper commentaries about Mr. Buckley by different authors I was stuck by the similarity of their praises for this amazing man. Everyone, from David Brooks to myself were in awe not only of his brilliance but also by the gracious way he welcomed you into his rarefied world.

Two years ago I was producing an independent documentary about New York in the 1950s and early 1960s. I asked Mr. Buckley if he would be kind enough to let me interview him on camera for my film.  My interview with him took place in his glamourous Manhattan home. By his hospitality and his engagement you would have thought I was Charlie Rose. After the interview I received a couple of letters from him in 
response to mine. They were always mailed. I was delighted to receive them.

The fact that he took the time to jot off a few quick letters to me and sign them "warm regards" did much to encourage me in the documentary field. Even though I did not know him very well he made me feel as if I did. I will miss him.
Dore Hammond 

03/05 11:40 AM