It is not from vanity that I mention the expectations, which the public seem to have formed from my appointment. On the contrary, I am persuaded, they are raised on a weak foundation, and I must lament them, because I foresee they must be disappointed. I must, therefore, entreat that no flattering prospect of immediate relief may be raised.
Congress will know that the public credit cannot be restored without method, economy, and punctual performance of contracts. Time is necessary to each; and therefore the removal of those evils we labor under can be expected from time only. To hold out a different idea would deceive the people, and consequently injure the public service.
I am sure it is unnecessary to add, before I close this letter, that I confidently expect my measures will meet with the fullest support from Congress, so long as they are honestly directed to the general welfare. In this conviction, and with every sentiment of respectful attention, I have the honor to be, &c.
ROBERT MORRIS.[31]
FOOTNOTES:
[31] May 14th. Wrote a letter to the President, promising to accept the office. At this time, however, various reasons occurred to prevent an immediate acceptance of the Commission; but particularly it was necessary to retain my seat in the Assembly of Pennsylvania, in order to lay a foundation for such measures as might tend to their support of me in pursuing the public good, not doubting but their example would have proper influence on the Legislatures of the other States, especially in their determination upon general points, such as their repealing those tender and penal laws, which in their operation had destroyed all public and private confidence and credit; in passing effective tax bills, that might yield substantial aid to the United States for calling in the paper money, that had lost its credit; and is adopting plans of reviving and establishing the credit of such as had been injured in some degree, but which, being necessary in circulation, and originally issued on funds sufficient for its redemption, ought not to be given up to ruin, if possible to prevent it. Diary.
TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
Philadelphia, May 17th, 1781.
Sir,