"It is presumable that no country will be able to borrow of foreigners upon better terms than the United States, because none can, perhaps, afford so good security."

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If the maintenance of public credit, then, be truly important, the next enquiry which suggests itself is, by what means it is to be effected? The ready answer to which question is, by good faith, by a punctual performance of contracts. States, like individuals, who observe their engagements, are respected and trusted: while the reverse is the fate of those who pursue an opposite conduct.

— Alexander Hamilton