I also think it indispensably necessary, that the appointment of all persons who are to act in my office, under the same roof, or in immediate connexion with, should be made by myself; Congress first agreeing, that such secretaries, clerks, or officers, so to be appointed are necessary, and fixing the salaries for each. I conceive, that it will be impossible to execute the duties of this office with effect, unless the absolute power of dismissing from office or employment all persons whatever, that are concerned in the official expenditure of public moneys, be committed to the Superintendent of Finance. For unless this power can be exercised without control, I have little hopes of efficacy in the business of reformation, which is probably the most essential part of the duty. These being the only positive stipulations that occur to me at this time, the determination of Congress thereon will enable me to determine whether to accept or decline the appointment. I must, however, observe that the act of Congress of the 7th of February, describing the duties of the Superintendent of Finance, requires the execution of many things, for which adequate powers are not provided, and it cannot be expected, that your officer can in such case be responsible. These however may be the subjects of future discussions. With sentiments of the highest respect, for you and Congress, I have the honor to subscribe myself, your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant. ROBERT MORRIS.[30] FOOTNOTES: [30] During the whole period in which Mr Morris held the office of Superintendent of Finance, he kept a _Diary_, in which he entered daily the principal transactions of his department. The following is an extract from the Diary.