“Do what is more difficult and more brave. Reform! … Rise to the emergency. Disappoint our fears. Force the nation to have faith in you. … It may be difficult at once to inspire confidence, but persevere. In time — when you have given reason for it — the country will love and trust you.”

Excerpt mid-way through: https://getpocket.com/explore/item/the-pen-pal-who-changed-a-president?utm_source=pocket-newtab