Ronald Reagan actually said...

But on balance, this is a sound compromise.

Yes, I am surprised, and anyone is a cynic who doesn't think that I am.

But, yes, it was a surprise, but I don't know of a happier surprise—all of you here, so many of you so dear to both of us.

Few others could have brought such divergent forces together as Secretary Pierce, and he deserves our appreciation and applause.