reform will make those people just as much your enemies as a whole reform, but it will not make you half as strong with the most patriotic and enlightened class of citizens. The approval of public opinion is always the principal strength of any reform Administration, and it will in a great measure depend upon the completeness of the reform policy. This has been the experience of all Administrations which made attempts in that direction. But owing to your splendid record and the fact that your performances have always gone beyond your formal promises, public expectation is now higher than it has ever been before.
The importance of the subject and my deep interest in it will, I hope, serve as an excuse for the earnestness of my language.
FROM PRESIDENT CLEVELAND
Washington, March 23, 1885.
My dear Sir: Your letter of [day before] yesterday is received.
Mr. Pearson's term expired, I believe, less than twenty-four hours ago.
I have had many things to consider and act upon, of the first importance and which admitted of no delay.
I hope you fully appreciate that the subject broached in your letter gives rise to many anxious reflections.
There are official documents and papers on file in the Post-Office Department, which relate to the subject, and which having been presented to me have perplexed and troubled me.
May I say that I want to do just the right thing, and at the same time gratify a host of kind friends and good men of whom you are an honored representative?
I take up my burden every morning and carry it as well as I can till night, and frequently up-hill.
