Gerald Ford actually said...

I wish to compliment Bill on the job that he did, again, during a period of great difficulty.

I want to take this opportunity to tell you how sincerely grateful I am for your outstanding service to our Nation.

I am particularly grateful for your vital work in shaping and guiding to enactment the Pension Reform Bill of 1974.

I expressed my warm appreciation for this invitation, and reiterated my hope that the visit would be possible later this year.