nd
for the _eventual_ discharge of the principal. This task I will
cheerfully undertake; and if, in the progress of things, I am enabled
to go further, with equal cheerfulness it shall be done; but I must
again repeat my serious conviction, that the least breach of faith
must ruin us forever.

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