Congress the officers who shall be
necessary for assisting him in the various branches of his Department.

_In Congress, February 20th._ Congress proceeded to the election of a
Superintendent of Finance; and the ballots being taken, Robert Morris
was unanimously elected.

* * * * *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

Philadelphia, March 13th, 1781.

Sir,

I had the honor to receive your Excellency's letter of the 21st of
last month, enclosing the Act of Congress of the 20th, whereby I am
appointed, by a unanimous election of that honorable body, to the
important office of SUPERINTENDENT OF FINANCE. Perfectly sensible of
the honor done me by this strong mark of confidence from the sovereign
authority of the United States, I feel myself bound to make the
acknowledgments due, by pursuing a conduct formed to answer the
expectations of Congress, and promote the public welfare. Were my
abilities equal to my desire of serving America, I should have given
an immediate determination after this appointment was made; but
conscious of my own deficiencies, time for consideration was
absolutely necessary. Little, however of that time, which has elapsed
have I been able to devote to this object, as the business before the
Legislature of Pennsylvania wherein I have the honor of a seat, has
demanded and continues to demand my constant attendance.

So far as the station of Superintendent of Finance, or indeed any
other public station or office, applies to myself I should without the
least hesitation have declined an acceptance; for after upwards of
twenty years assiduous application to business as a merchant, I find
myself at that period when my mind, body, and inclination combine to
seek for relaxation and ease. Providence had so far smiled on my
endeavors as to enable me to prepare for the indulgence of these
feelings, in such a manner as would be least injurious to the interest
of my family. If, therefore, I accept this appointment, a sacrifice of
that case, of much social and domestic enjoyment, and of every
material interest, must be the inevitable consequence; and as my
ambition was entirely gratified by my present situation and character
in life, no motive of that kind can stimulate me to the acceptance.

Putting myself out of the question, the sole motive is the public
good; and this motive I confess comes home to my feelings. The