Don't accept the post or stay unless you have an understanding with the President that you're free to tell him what you think "with the bark off" and you have the courage to do it.

Listening to both sides does not necessarily bring about a correct judgment.

Don't be a bottleneck. If a matter is not a decision for the President or you, delegate it. Force responsibility down and out. Find problem areas, add structure and delegate. The pressure is to do the reverse. Resist it.

Reduce the number of lawyers. They are like beavers - they get in the middle of the stream and dam it up.

Public servants are paid to serve the American people. Do it well.

It is the photographs that gives one the vivid realization of what actually took place. (On photographs from Abu Ghraib prison.)

Know that the immediate staff and others in the Administration will assume that your manner, tone and tempo reflect the President's.