At 79, and for the first time in his record-breaking 48 years as a member of the House of Representatives and his 17 years as its Speaker, Texan Sam Rayburn last week was obviously and admittedly ailing. Racked by lumbago, he was unable to sleep or eat, had lost 15 Ibs. and showed it.
Despite his pain, Mister Sam remained indomitable. After weeks of back twinges, he was finally prevailed upon to consult White House Physician Janet Travell, who administered Novocain to comfort him. When the treatment was over, Rayburn arose to put his trousers back on. Dr. Travell noticed that he...
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