Gerald Ford actually said...

"I am today granting a final extension of the termination date for applications under the clemency program from March 1 until March 31, 1975."

"I expect them to assure full compliance with all personnel laws and regulations."

"I am determined... to keep the Federal career service just that--a career service in which men and women can be accepted in the first place on their ability and promoted on their merit."

"I fully expect those charged with the responsibility of assuring the integrity of the merit system to live up to that responsibility."