Rustin was impressed by the intuitive Gandhian method at work in the plan. Privately, he told King that he had been all over the world and not seen a movement that could compare with what he had seen already in Montgomery. He wanted to help spread the word, particularly among believers in nonviolence. There were articles to be written, funds to be raised, specialized techniques to be taught. He realized the dangers involved with “outside agitators,” particularly Northerners, but he would work behind the scenes if King thought it wise. King, beholding Rustin for the first time, said they needed
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