Franklin Roosevelt actually said...

"Aside from the undoubted fact that the merit system affords the best method for administration of government business, the particular feature of the system which has the greatest appeal is the open co..."

"Please let me urge upon the Congress the desirability of placing all but policy-forming positions under the merit system."

"I would, therefore, urge upon the Congress that all but policy-forming positions be placed within its provisions."

"Government business, of course, should be performed with the highest economy and efficiency."