University of Virginia Library

1052. CABINET, Verbal and Written Opinions.—

I practiced the method [of assembling
the Cabinet members and taking their
opinions verbally], because the harmony was
so cordial among us all, that we never failed,
by a contribution of mutual views on a subject,
to form an opinion acceptable to the
whole. I think there never was one instance
to the contrary, in any case of consequence.—
To Dr. Walter Jones. Washington ed. v, 510. Ford ed., ix, 273.
(M. 1810)