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A Century of Lawmaking for a New Nation: U.S. Congressional Documents and Debates, 1774-1875
My dear friend New York July 10 1788
I arrived here last Night at Sun Set.(1) I embarked at New Haven Monday evening---;in the same Vessel which we formerly went to Lloyds Neck in & had the same weather as nearly as possible & to add to my troubles I had the sick Head Ach all the way. Jack nursed me and I was benefitted by Pickering and am very well. I Lodge at Mrs Cuylers, and find Mrs Burr expecting every hour to ly in. My love to sisters and the Children. I have hardly got my Head Steady enough to write, it seems yet to be at Sea. I wish You to send my Watch by Brig & desire him to deliver it to Clarke or Beecher to bring to me.
I am, Affectionatee Yours Jere Wadsworth
PS Since Writing the above have seen N & Mrs Lawrence who desire their particular compliments & thanks to You all for Your care of Jack.
RC (CtHi: Wadsworth Papers).
1 Wadsworth returned to his seat in Congress this day. Cf. JCC, 34:305, 315.
Peleg Arnold to Welcome Arnold
Sir, New York 11th July 1788.
We have this Day Thirteen States on the Floor of Congress which has not been until the present case Since the year 1776.(1)
Ten States having Ratified the New Constitution, Congress are now Deliberating on the Time for the States to appoint Ellectors, to Choose a President and when Proceedings Shall commince under Said Constitution; In this Important Business from the peculiar Situation of our State the Delegation have Declined to act From the preasant appearance this is the Last year that Congress will assemble under the old Confediration; The time Reported by the Comtee. to assemble under the New Goverment is the first Monday in February Next. The Question has not yet been Ditermin'd on; but I beleave it will not Exceed that Time.
The information from this States Convention has generally Been that they would not addopt the New Constitution; But the Last Reports Say that the Federal Party gain Strength and it is generally believed here that it will be addopted. I presume the amendments by the Virginia Convention have had Considerable influence on the minds of the Members of this Stats Convention which has occationed this change.
I wish to have a Line from you as often as you find it Convenient, and am your assurd Frend, Peleg Arnold
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July 13, 1788
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RC (PHi: Gratz Collection).
1 Actually, since April 1777. See Edmund C. Burnett, The Continental Congress (New York: Macmillan Co., 1941), p. 711.
Nathan Dane to Caleb Strong
My Dear Sir New York July 13. 1788.
I thank for your obliging letter of the 18 Ulto. It gives me real satisfaction, as I think must you, to see government in Massachusetts so fully restored. The riens by consent of the people themselves have now got into good hands---;and I think good men will keep the principal Share in the Government, if they do not govern too much.
We now have thirteen states on the floor of Congress---;a circumstance which has not happened before for several years past. The Committee appointed to report an Act for putting the Constitution of the United States into operation, reported last week and Congress have spent one day in considering the report.(1) The States appear to be very unanimous in this business---;except as to the place where Congress under the Constitution shall meet. Whether it shall meet at New York or Philadelphia will be a matter much contested. There will not be more than one State majority, I think, for either plan but this you will understand will be a question only in Case N. York shall adopt the Constitution. If she does not there will, I presume, be no question, as it will generally be thought to be improper for Congress to assemble in a nonratifying state. If she shall adopt, from present appearances, it is probable that a majority of the States will prefer this City (N.Y.) for the meeting of the New Congress. This question will probably be decided in a few days. The Convention of this State is every day now expected to finish its business, and it is hoped it will adopt. I think we shall fix the meeting of the New Government to be about the first Wednesday in February next. The Delegates of Massachusetts and of some other States wish it to be at an earlier period as the States they represent can with ease assemble sooner, but it is said to be impossible for Virginia, North Carolina, &c from their great extent sooner to make their elections and attend.
In the enclosed paper you will see the amendments recommendedin Virginia.
With Sentiments of esteem and friendship, I am Dr Sir, your obedt. humble Servant. N. Dane
RC (MNF: Strong Collection).
1 See John Brown to John Smith, July 9, note 4.
Page 226
July 15, 1788
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Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon
Sir (Private) New York July 15th 1788
I am honored with your Excellency's obliging favor of the 5th instant. Time & place of commencing proceedings under the New government is not yet determined on. It has been put off from day to day in order to give New York time to come in and take a part in the business but I am very sorry to inform you that the perverseness of the Anties in their Convention continues. They stand out for previous amendments and are attempting to persuade the populace that Congress may receive them on such conditions. It is impossible to determine at present where this business will end. The South part of the State are highly federal and are greatly incensed against the Governor and his party. They threaten a dereliction of the government---;and if they should be unable to bring over the Country party I am inclined to think that a secession of this City and the Islands will absolutely take place---;but there is still a gleam of hope though not a very bright one, that they will accede. Should we proceede to business in the new Congress without the Voice of New York and Rhode Island, it might be a gratification to Mason and a few others, but what would become of the Eastern Interests? This is, in my humble judgment, a matter of serious Consideration and I heartily wish that measures might be adopted by the New England States to bring that little wicked State of R Island to a sense of the duty they owe themselves and their neighbours.
The Honorable Mr Cochran who is concerned with Lord Dundonald in the tar business has sent me a number of his books. I beg leave to inclose one for your perusal.(1) Mr Wingate desire his Compliments. Excuse haste and believe me to be Most Respectfully, Sir, Your Excellencys Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant N. Gilman
RC (Capt. J. G. M. Stone, Annapolis, Md., 1973).
1 Not identified.
Jeremiah Wadsworth to John Chaloner
Dear Sir New York July 15 1788
I arrived here last Wednesday---;and am Yet without your answer to my letter from Hartford. Col Hamilton being absent I can not learn if you have remitted him any Money. But as I have before me a pressing letter from Mr Church and am otherwise distressed for Money I pray you to let me know imediately what I can depend on and what if any has been sent Col Hamilton. I would come to Philadelphia but my
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July 15, 1788
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duty in Congress will not at present permit me. I beg you will not let me remain without an Answer---;my love to Mrs Chaloner & the family. I am dear Sir Your very H S,
Jere Wadsworth
RC (PHi: Chaloner and White Collection).
Jeremiah Wadsworth to John Lawrence
Sir New York July 15 1788
I have presented Your claim to the Treasy. Board and examined all the Papers respecting it, and they have agreed to go into the Consideration of it this day---;but I have reason to believe they will not agree to the Sum asserted by Mr. Thomson as they declare it is more than has been allowed any other Commissioner,(1) but they will do all they can to extend Your claim consistent with their opinion of Justice. When I know the result I will communicate it,(2) and persue your further instructions. I am, very respectfully, Your most Hum sert, Jere Wadsworth
RC (CtHi: Hoadley Collection).
1 No documents or other evidence relating to Lawrence's claim have been found in the journal or papers of Congress. Lawrence, the treasurer of Connecticut, was formerly Continental loan officer for the state. See JCC, 6:928, 18:1150--;51; and these Letters, 16:407--;8, 447--;48.
2 Wadsworth also wrote the following brief letter to Lawrence on July 20. "Inclosed you have a letter I received from the Treasury Board. When I know the result of their revision of your Account I will again write you. In the interim if You can think of any thing which will be likely to be usefull to inforce Your claim you will please to communicate it." Ibid.
Jeremiah Wadsworth to Oliver Wolcott
Dear Sir New York July 15 1788
I am sorry to inform you that the Federalists in this State despair of an unconditional adoption of the Constitution---;and their is reason to believe this Citty & its Vicinity will be detached from the upper part of the State. The convulsions in consequence of this business will certainly reach our State---;and too much care can not be taken to prevent any premature Steps. I will write You more particularly in a day or two---;and as I shall write you unreservedly on all occurrences You will not suffer any extracts to be published from my letters without particularly marked by me.
I am dear sir Yours, J Wadsworth(1)
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July 15, 1788
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Portrait of Jeremiah Wadsworth
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July 17, 1788
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[P.S.] A report of a committee is before the House to put a New Government in motion which will be finished in a day or two.
RC (CtHi: Oliver Wolcott, Jr. Papers).
1 Wadsworth also wrote brief letters this day to his wife, Mehitable, and to his daughters, Catherine and Harriet, all of which are in the Wadsworth Papers, CtHi. He had little news to report except that "Mrs Burr has lately been delivered of a Child Still born & has been very ill---;she is now better."
James Madison to Edmund Randolph
My dear friend N. York July 16. [17]88
The inclosed papers will give you the latest intelligence from Poughkepsie. It seems by no means certain what the result there will be. Some of the most sanguine calculate on a ratification. The best informed apprehend some clog that will amount to a condition. The question is made peculiarly interesting in this place, by its connexion with the question relative to the place to be recommended for the meeting of the first Congress under the new Government.
13 States are at present represented. A plan for setting this new Machine in motion has been reported some days,(1) but will not be hurried to a conclusion. Having been but a little time here, I am not yet fully in the politics of Congress. I had on the road several returns of a bilious lax which made my journey more tedious & less agreeable than it would otherwise have been. At present I am pretty well again. Hoping this will find you & yours more compleatly so, I remain, Yr. Affete friend, Js. Madison Jr
RC (DLC: Madison Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:187--;88.
1 See John Brown to John Smith, July 9, note 4.
Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon
Sir (Private) New York July 17th 1788
This is merely to accompany the papers of the day, by which you will discover the temper of the Poughkeepsie Convention. They are still in session and the heart of their Pharoah is still unrelenting. It is impos-
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July 17, 1788
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sible to foresee the issue of this business. Their present situation is critical. The people of this City are highly federal---;they will adhere to the Union at all events and are making preparation for an expensive procession to take place on Wednesday next.
With the highest Respect, I have the Honor to be, Sir, Your Excellencys Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant, N. Gilman
RC (Capt. J. G. M. Stone, Annapolis, Md., 1973).
Samuel A. Otis to George Thatcher
Dear Sir New York 17 July 1788
. . . . and first I inform you That we have had Thirteen States freequently upon the floor & have been very industrious---; What have you been about? Look at the Journal---;One thing seems to be agreed, that new government is to take place about mid winter---;Next week perhaps the Time will be agreed upon.(1) The place will be a bone of Contention, Southern people are opposed to N Y, & I think the Yorkers hang back in such manner am rather of opinion it will not be here. For my own part I am in present sentiment for N York but we are all in suspense for the doings of Convention. Probably the question will this day be taken therein. I am of opinion it will not be a favorable decision. Clinton is popular has a majority at command & is very violent. They may possibly adjourn which is the best expectation I form. The Yorkers are determined however to have their frolic, & I dont know but we are in danger of runing into excess in regard to processions. Perhaps my gravity & aversion to parade may have induced this opinion. It is an implied triumph over minority which always irritates. I think the movements of the new Govt should be mild, discreat & attended with great circumspection.
Enclosed is Greenleafs(2) which details prety fairly, To which refering you I am, With regard & esteem, Your Hume St, Sam. A. Otes [Otis]
MS not found; reprinted from Historical Magazine, 2d ser. 6 (December 1869): 349.
1 For the protracted debate over the establishment of the new government, see John Brown to John Smith, July 9, note 4.
2 Apparently an issue of Thomas Greenleaf's New York Journal.
Charles Thomson to George Handley
Sir, July 17. 1788
I have the honor to transmit to your Exy herewith enclosed an Act
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July 17, 1788
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lately passed by the united states in Congress Assembled entitled "A supplement to an Ordinance entitled An Ordinance for ascertaining the mode of disposing of land in the Western territory,"(1) also a report of a Committee which has been agreed to by Congress touchg the offer made by the state of Georgia to cede her claim to a certain tract of territory;(2) and an act passed instructg the Superintendt & Comrs. for the southern department to notify, if necessary, to the hostile Indians that should they persist in refusing to enter into a treaty upon reasonable terms the Arms of the United States shall be called forth(3) for the protection of that frontier & the subsequent order passed to give efficacy to this instruction.(4) I hope this will have the desired effect in restoring peace to your borders & have the honor to be with great respect, Your Excy's Most Ob. &c
LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). Addressed: "His Exy Govr of Georgia."
1 See the following entry, note 1.
2 For this Georgia cession, which had been submitted to Congress May 29, see Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon, May 3, note.
3 For this July 15 resolve, see JCC, 34:326; and South Carolina Delegates to Thomas Pinckney, August 16, note 3. For Congress' previous resolution instructing the southern Indian commissioners to negotiate a treaty with the Creek Indians who had been retaliating against settler intrusions along the Georgia frontier since the summer of 1787, see Thomson to Certain States, October 27, note 1; and Nicholas Gilman to John Sullivan, November 7, 1787, note 2.
4 JCC, 34:327.
Charles Thomson to the States
Sir, (Circular) Office of Secy of Congress, July 17. 1788
I have the honor to transmit to your Excelly herewith enclosed A supplement to the Ordinance ascertaining the mode of disposing of lands in the Western territory which was passed by Congress the 9th of this Month.(1)
With great respect, I have the honor to be, &c
LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B).
1 See JCC, 34:306--;10. For the background and adoption of this supplement to the May 20, 1785, western land ordinance, see Massachusetts Delegates to John Hancock, May 27, note 3.
Paine Wingate to John Pickering
Dear Sir, New York July 17, 1788.
Heartily fatigued with the business of the day, and with writing I set down to write you a very hasty letter. A few days since I recd a letter
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July 17, 1788
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from your Bror. dated June 26, on the day preceding the night on which he was made prisoner by the insurgents of that country.(1) He was then very well with his family, and tho he mentioned that he had been threatened, he said he was under no apprehensions of mischief from those villains. He supposed that keeping Franklin confined would be his security. I am exceeding sorry that he found the misfortune of being disappointed. You will see by the enclosed newspaper the measures that have been taken & the intelligence that has been received from your Bror. I do not think that you need be anxious for his safety for I believe they will not venture to use any further violence to his person. I should have informed you sooner of his situation but Major Hodgdon said he had written to Capt. Williams. I thot that the letter, said in the newspaper from your brother, would be an alleviation to your concern & for that reason have written to you at this time. Should I receive any material intelligence respecting him further I will give you information as soon as may be. I hope soon to have it in my power to give you agreeable intelligence upon that head.
We have now a full representation in Congress from all the States. Have not yet made the arrangements for the new Congress. The first Wednesday in Dec. is proposed for chusing electors of President, & the last Wednesday of that month for the choice of President. The beginning of Feb. it is probable Congress will meet & it is yet mere conjecture that Philadelphia will be the place. A few days will now determine all those points. We have waited this week to know the determination of New York convention. Our intelligence last evening was not favorable from Poughkeepsie. We expect hourly to hear the final result. There is too much I suspect of personal animosity among some members of the convention which will be a detriment to that condesention which at this time is very necessary. This city will be exceedingly enraged against the antifederal party ifthey should reject the constitution as it will necesitate the removal of Congress which they much fear. Nineteen of twenty are said to be federal in the city. Next Wednesday is the day appointed for the procession in New York celebrating the new constitution which is to be with extraordinary pomp. I believe the late principle transactions of Congress will be in your newspapers & needless here to mention. I hope we shall adjourn after a while if not I think I shall return by the beginning of Sept. when I hope I shall have the pleasure of seeing you and all our friends well. I am Dr. Sir your affectionate friend & brother.
Paine Wingate.
Tr (DLC: Burnett Collection). Copied for Edmund C. Burnett "from the original furnished by the courtesy of Mr. C. E. L. Wingate of Winchester, Massachusetts." Wingate, Life and Letters, 1:235--;36.
1 Timothy Pickering, a New Englander, had in 1786 turned his attentions to the development of lands he had obtained in northern Pennsylvania, the success of which de-
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July 18, 1788
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pended in part upon the settlement of the conflict that had long wracked the Wyoming Valley. Soon after Pennsylvania created Luzerne County in September 1786, a measure designed to help pacify the region, Pickering was appointed to a number of offices involved in its organization, and for a time appeared to inspire the confidence of both sides in the conflict. But he was increasingly viewed by Connecticut partisans as a captive of Pennsylvania interests and on June 26 a number of dissidents abducted him in a desperate effort to alter events and bring pressure on the state. For an account of Pickering's work in Luzerne County and his June 26--;July 15 abduction, see Gerard H. Clarfield, Timothy Pickering and the American Revolution (Pittsburgh: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1980), pp. 90--;115; and Susquehannah Co. Papers, 9:xli--;xlv.
Wingate was married to Pickering's sister Eunice.
William Bingham to Benjamin Rush
Dear Sir, New York July 18th 1788
I received the Letter you inclosed concerning the Effects of the federal Procession(1) on the various Descriptions of Persons that participated in the future Enjoyment, & was much pleased with the Perusal.
I have no occasion for a Stimulus to increase the force of my Exertion to fix the Seat of federal Government at Philadelphia. I have devoted myself Solely to that Object for a considerable Time past, & have the most flattering Prospect of Succeeding---;but it is far from being certain, for the Competition is very great, & there are as many Cities contending for this Advantage, as there were for the Honor of Homers Birth. Our City has So great a start of the others, that many are desirous of depriving us of this Benefit, from the Operation of low minded Jealousy & Envy.
You will please to keep this Letter secret, as a Strong Expectation of success would rather tend to defeat our Views.
I am with much Regard, Dear sir, Your obed hble ser, Wm Bingham
RC (PHi: Alexander Biddle Collection).
1 See Rush, Letters (Butterfield), 1:470--;77.
Charles Thomson to Thomas Hutchins
Sir July 18 1788
I have the honor to transmit to you herewith enclosed a few copies of the Supplement to the land Ordinance,(1) an Act empowering you to appoint Surveyors & fixing the sum to be allowed to the Surveyor,(2) also a Motion which is referred to you to take Order.(3)
I am sr yr obedt. humble Servt
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July 18, 1788
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LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). Addressed: "T Hutchins Esqr, Geographer of the US."
1 See Thomson to the States, July 17.
2 For these July 17 resolves, see JCC, 34:331.
3 For this instruction to Hutchins concerning the terms of Virginia's reservation of military bounty lands in its western lands cession, see JCC, 34:332--;34. Although Virginia aimed to provide for its bounty claims from lands reserved south of the Ohio River, it had nevertheless stipulated that if insufficient land was available there for this purpose, the deficiency would be "made up to the said troops in good lands to be laid off between the river Scioto and little Miami on the North west side of the river Ohio." By terms of the enclosed resolve, Congress declared invalid any bounty claims surveyed and located prior to ascertaining such an insufficiency. And the governor of Virginia was requested "to inform Congress whether there has been any deficiency of good land reserved. . .on the south east side of the Ohio. . .; and if there has been. . .what is the amount," so that the remaining land could be disposed of "for the general benefit of the Union." For the background of this issue, see William Grayson to James Madison, August 31, 1787, note 4. See also Thomson to Edmund Randolph, July 21.
Charles Thomson to John Pierce
Sir, July 18. 1788
I have the honor to transmit to you herewith enclosed an act empowering & directing the board of treasury in the settlement of your Accots to place to your credit a sum for your extra service as Comr. of Army Accots.(1)
I am sr &c
LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B).
1 For Pierce's July 9 memorial seeking the settlement of his compensation as commissioner of army accounts, which was referred July 11 to a committee which submitted a report whose recommendations were adopted July 16, see PCC, item 41, 8:246--;47; and JCC, 34:317n., 327--;29.
For the announcement of Pierce's death just two weeks later, and the election of a new commissioner of army accounts, Joseph Howell, on August 28, see JCC, 34:392, 407n, 468; and Thomson to Howell, August 30.
Nathan Dane to Theodore Sedgwick
My Dear Sir New York July 20. 1788.
I am much obliged to you for Your favor of the 3d instant(1) which I received the 17th instant.
Your account of the character of our General Court for the present year gives me real satisfaction---;it is good evidence the people are come to think well on political subjects and to assume a proper temper.
The Independency of Kentucky is assigned over to the New Government to do what they may think proper respecting it.
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July 20, 1788
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The inclosed is the report of the Committee on the subject of putting the Constitution of the United States of America into operation (our reports you know are not made public till acted upon). The report some days ago was agreed to in part, that is Congress have fixed the first Wednesday in Decr. for the appointment of the Electors of the president---;and the last Wednesday in the same month for them to assemble and vote for him.(2) The majority of the states appear to be for fixing the first Wednesday in February for the Govert. to assemble---;the Eastern and Middle States could be much more expeditious in this business, but it is Stated by the Southern Delegates, that it is impossible for their States to be prepared to elect, &c, sooner than the times mentioned. The principal point in dispute is where shall Congress assemble under the Constitution, should this State adopt. I think from present Appearances a majority of the States will be for this City---;those who contended for Philadelphia about ten days ago urged vehemently for the decision of the question, but finding Congress not in a disposition to decide until after this State's Convention shall have acted upon the Subject, nothing has been said about it since. As every member, I imagine, has made up his mind on the residue of the report it is, probable, we shall finish it in one day's time after we hear the result of the proceedings of the N York Convention---;you see by the report we make a simple piece of business of it, nor has it caused much debate or delay---;having thirteen states on the floor we took up this business sooner than was expected.
We now expect every day to hear this State has decided as to the adoption---;but there seems to be no certainty what their decision will be---;tho---;I think the probability, is in favor of their acceding to the New Confederacy.
I propose to stay in N. York till the inclosed report shall be acted upon and that I rather expect will be this week. I shall then make a Short tour toMassa.---;there is considerable of business to be done by the present Congress to clear the files, &c, but none of it very import[ant].
Brother Thatcher when he went from this place last March proposed to be here the first of August, or late in July---;but we have heard scarcely a word from him since he left us and are uncertain whether he will return as he proposed or not---;and as you must, I suppose, attend the General Court in Sepr. it makes it necessary for me to calculate upon return'g to Congress this Summer or early in the fall which I wish to avoid if I could.
With sentiments of esteem & regard, I am, Dear Sir, your humble sert.
N. D[ane]
RC (MHi: Sedgwick Papers).
1 Sedgwick's letter is in the Dane Papers, MBevHi.
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July 20, 1788
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2 For the committee's July 8 report and its consideration on July 14, see JCC, 34:303--;4, 317--;18. See also John Brown to John Smith, July 9, note 4.
Ezra L'Hommedieu to John Smith
Dear Sir,(1) New York July 20. 1788
Your favour of the 11th I received & had wrote you an answer to send by the post but was disappointed by the mail's being closed before my letter got to the office. After that I concluded you were so near a Close in the Business that I might see you before my Letter would come to hand.
I am very sorry that any thing I wrote to Mr Barcley should give you the least uneasiness or in any wise divert your Attention from the great Objects in which you are engaged. You were very right in your Conjecture of my Reasons, which I supposed at the Time were well founded, but I assure you I had not the least Idea of an Imputation of Neglect or Inattention, knowing that no Gentleman in that Delegation was under the least Obligation to communicate to me any thing that was passing in the Convention neither do I know that I had any reason to expect it.
That you entertain no jealousy toward me on Account of difference of Sentiment I am glad to hear and really beleive it to be as you say.
I conclude that the Propositions you mention & with some difficulty were come into by the Majority were understood by them to amount to such an adoption that this State would be considered as being in the Union. I am very clearly of opinion that the New Congress could not admit of such an adoption having no discretionary Power, and the Constitution being in the nature of a Compact it must operate equally with all. The last Propositions made last Fryday by Mr Smith(2) tho they appear & are much nearer an adoption than the others are still subject to the objection of a Condition which I think will be fatal (to wit) the Liberty of withdrawing from the Union within a Certain Time, if certain Things on the Part of the States is not done. If this should not be considered by the New Congress as an Adoption many & great will be the disadvantages besides calling a New Convention and Altho the present Congress may not be competent to determine theQuestion they will give their sense upon it by determining another Question to wit the meeting of the New Congress, and I have every Reason to beleive that this will not be deemed to be such an adoption as the Constitution makes necessary. If there is a Majority in favor of this States being in the Union I do not see the Difficulty in wording the
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July 20, 1788
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resolutions in such manner, as may put it past doubt, and at the same Time fully express their sense & wishes respecting the alterations or amendments to be made in the Constitution. I will say no more on this subject. You who are daily conversant in the business no doubt experience & see many Difficulties that do not occur to me in fixing so great a Question.
You may be assured that since the Adoption by New Hampshire & Virginia a great Change in Sentiment has taken Place with those who were before opposed to the Constitution & I beleive there are but few if any in this City who do not think it expedient for this State under the present Circumstances to become part of the Union & as far as I am informed this Sentiment is general in the southern part of the state.
We hear that Mr Jones is for adopting the Constitution,(3) by the Information I have had from Queens County his Conduct in that particular will be approved of by his Constituents, it is here, by those who have been opposed as well as those who have approved.
If your Convention should finally ratifify [ratify] the Constitution, it will be a very happy Circumstance that the Majority of the Convention before the adoption by so many States were opposed to the adoption. I say a happy Circumstance because it will be a means of quieting the Minds of all & settling the state down in Peace & putting an End to Parties & Dissentions which are so distructive to the Peace, wellfare & Happiness of a People. Great preparations are making here for Rejoicing on Wednesday next, as no doubt you have heard; and however premature this Business may be I am Happy in having Reason to Beleive that the Business of the Day will be conducted with prudence with out insulting any one by word or Action or doing any thing by which the feelings of any one at Home or abroad may be hurt. I have wrote in a great hurry. You will therefore excuse Incorrectness & not expose it, as I have not time to look over it.
You knowI have no intention to dictate or influence. May that Being who ruleth over all the Kingdoms of the Earth so direct your Counsels in determining this great national Question that this State may long enjoy Peace & Happiness.
With Regards to all friends I am, sir, Your most Obedt & very Humb Servt., Ezra L Hommedieu
RC (NHi: Miscellaneous Manuscripts, John Smith of Mastic). Addressed: "Col. Smith."
1 John Smith (1752--;1816) of Mastic, Long Island, a New York assemblyman, was a Suffolk County delegate to the New York ratifying convention. Bio. Dir. Cong.
2 That is, Melancton Smith.
3 That is, Samuel Jones, a New York assemblyman from Queen's County, and antifederalist delegate to the New York ratifying convention. Hamilton, Papers (Syrett), 5:90, 178, 190--;91, 246n.1.
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James Madison to Alexander Hamilton
My dear Sir N. York Sunday Evening [July 20, 1788]
Yours of yesterday is this instant come to hand(1) & I have but a few minutes to answer it. I am sorry that your situation obliges you to listen to propositions of the nature you describe. My opinion is that a reservation of a right to withdraw if amendments be not decided on under the form of the Constitution within a certain time, is a conditional ratification, that it does not make N. York a member of the New Union, and consequently that she could not be received on that plan. Compacts must be reciprocal, this principle would not in such a case be preserved. The Constitution requires an adoption in toto, and forever. It has been so adopted by the other States. An adoption for a limited time would be as defective as an adoption of some of the articles only. In short any condition whatever must viciate the ratification. What the New Congress by virtue of the power to admit new States, may be able & disposed to do in such case, I do not enquire as I suppose that is not the material point at present. I have not a moment to add more than my fervent wishes for your success & happiness. Js. Madison
[P.S.] This idea of reserving right to withdraw was started at Richmd. & considered as a conditional ratification which was itself considered as worse than a rejection.
RC (DLC: Hamilton Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:189.
1 See Hamilton, Papers (Syrett), 5:177--;78.
William Bingham to Tench Coxe
Dear Sir, New York. July 21. 1788
I Should have Suffered your favor of the 9th Inst to have remained So long unreplied to, if I had not been in daily expectation of communicating Some pleasing Intelligence concerning the subject of that Letter.
But from various Circumstances the Question has been delayed, & I cannot Say with Certainty when it will be determined.
A Competition from different Quarters has arisen, which divides the Suffrages into as many Parties---;but however they may vibrate from one side to the other, they must at last come to rest in the Centre, which is Pennsylvania. Our rising Importance in the political Scale has caused great Jealousy, & is one reason of our not uniting all the
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Votes of Congress in our favor, for in every Sense, we have the fittest place to assemble the new Congress in, & it is generally acknowledged. I wish little may be Said on this subject, for in proportion as we make Exertions to establish our Pretensions, there are envious Characters, that will endeavor to oppose them.
The Convention of New York is Still in Session. There are faint hopes entertained of an unconditional Ratification, or an Adjournment which will be tantamount.
I am with much regard, Dr Sir, Your obed hble serv, Wm Bingham
RC (PHi: Coxe Papers).
William Irvine to Samuel Meredith
Dear Sir New York July 21st 1788
I can not with certainty yet inform you whether your attendance here will be indispensably necessary.(1) Messrs. Reid & Bingham are here; Reid talks of going to Philadelphia the latter end of this week. Armstrong tis said will be here this day or tomorrow whether he means to attend any time I know not, but if any, or so many are likely to go off as not to have a compleat representation I will give you the earliest notice. The papers will furnish you with the state of things in New York Convention. The ordinance or Resolutions for putting the new government in motion, is partly gone through; the place for the new Congress to meet is where a full halt is made, it is impossible to say with any degree of certainty what place will be fixed on---;there is great anxiety in the minds of the people of this place on the subject, and they are exerting themselves.
If the Philadelphians could be persuaded to write & talk less on this subject, I think their purpose could be equal if not better answered. I have not time now but will hereafter explain to you my reasons for thinking so.
The Delegates of Penna. will certainly do all in their power on this occasion.
I am Dr Sir, Your Most Obedt. Servt., Wm. Irvine
RC (DSoC: Miscellaneous Manuscripts).
1 Meredith took his seat in Congress on Tuesday, July 29. JCC, 34:367. According to his accounts, he was paid £119.11.0 September 25 "for his attendance as a Member of Congress from July 25th until the fourteenth day of September 1788 inclusively and his mileage." Gratz Collection, PHi.
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James Madison to George Washington
Dear Sir N. York July 21. 1788.
I have deferred writing since my arrival here in the hourly hope of being enabled to communicate the final news from Poughkepsie. By a letter from Hamilton dated the day before yesterday(1) I find that it is equally uncertain when the business will be closed, and what will be its definitive form. The inclosed gazettes state the form which the depending proposition bears. It is not a little strange that the Antifederal party should be reduced to such an expedient, and yet be able to keep their members together in the opposition. Nor is it less strange that the other party, as appears to be the case, should hesitate in deciding that the expedient as effectually keeps the State for the present out of the New Union as the most unqualified rejection could do. The intelligent Citizens here see clearly that this would be its operation and are agitated by the double motives of fOEderalism, and a zeal to give this City a fair chance for the first meeting of the new Government.
Congress have deliberated in part on the arrangements for putting the new Machine into operation, but have concluded on nothing but the times for chusing electors &c. Those who wish to make N. York the place of meeting studiously promote delay. Others who are not swayed by this consideration do not urge despatch. They think it would be well to let as many States as possible have an opportunity of deciding on the Constitution: and what is of more consequence, they wish to give opportunities where they can take place for as many elections of State Legislatures as can precede a reasonable time for making the appointments and arrangements referred to them. If there be too great an interval between the acts of Congress on this Subject and the next election or next meeting of a State Legislature, it may afford a pretext for an intermediate summoning of the existing members, who are every where less federal than their successors hereafter to be elected willprobably be. This is particularly the case in Maryland, where the antifederal temper of the Executive would render an immediate and extraordinary meeting of the Assembly of that State the more likely to be called. On my way thro' Maryland I found such an event to be much feared by the friends and wished by the adversaries of the Constitution. We have no late news from Europe: nor any thing from N. Carolina. With every sentiment of esteem & attachment, I remain Dr. Sir Your Obedt. & Affete. servt. Js. Madison Jr
RC (DLC: Washington Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:190--;91.
1 See Hamilton, Papers (Syrett), 5:177--;78.
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Charles Thomson to Edmund Randolph
Sir, Office of Secretary of Congress, July 21st. 1788.
I have the honor to transmit to Your Excellency herewith enclosed An Act passed the 17th by the United States in Congress Assembled, touching locations and surveys for the Virginia troops upon continental establishment, between the Scioto & Miami Rivers in the north west side of the Ohio, and requesting the Executive of Virginia to inform them whether there has been any deficiency of good lands reserved by the laws of that State on the south east side of the Ohio for the said troops &c.(1)
With great respect, I have the honor to be, Your Excellencys Most Obedient & Most humble servant, Cha Thomson
RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). Addressed: "His Excellency The Governour of Virginia."
1 For the enclosed resolve, see JCC, 34:334; and Thomson to Thomas Hutchins, July 18, note 3.
Paine Wingate to Hannah Wingate
My dear friend New York July 21. 1788.
I have received your pretty & short letter of the 2d Instant, and dont know when such a little triffling matter has given me more pleasure. I am very glad to find that you was then at Polly's, who I know is very fond of your non sence, as well as somebody else. I suppose that the conciseness of your letter is a hint for me, & shall endeavor to conform to your example in making mine as short. I have no objection to this, only I am very frugal always in improving all my paper. It gives me much satisfaction to hear that you are pretty well. I hope you will remain so until I shall return. For it is such a rarity as I never yet saw. I cannot but admire the good spirits which you have discovered in all your letters, and wish that you could communicate some to my wife who seems to be rather disconsolate. You may depend upon it that it is my present expectation & purpose to set out for home the beginning of Sept. or perhaps sooner. I shall write to my wife before that time & let her know when to expect me. I hope it will be as agreeable to her, as it will be to you, thô I do not wish that it might keep either of you awake, unless it is at church where I suppose you both will need it these long hot days. I know that you are very much of a libertine lady & dont wonder that you are tickled up with the new Constitution. I suppose that you fancy it will make you young again, & that it will have
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as good an effect upon you as innoculation. For my part I am tired with reading the pompous accounts of the processions in every part of the country, and have been expecting to see the account of the Stratham procession & toasts to add to the catalogue. I should now write as much more if I had not promised to be short.
With love to the Dr. & Hanny & all friends, I am with great complaisance yours &c P Wingate
P.S. As I have finished the foregoing short letter according to my promise, I hope that you will consider it as no violation of my word if I should add by way of postscript as much more. When I looked over your letter after I had finished mine, I found there were some things which I had passed unnoticed. You speak of having much work to do; that I am exceeding glad to hear, & would never have you omit it for the sake of writing or reading letters in which I am concerned. As to the horse block, I never know how much to believe of what you say. But if you should ever happen to be at my house I hope I shall not be wanting in proper attention to assist you in getting away again. If Amos has accommodated you with a block I suppose it was that he might not have the trouble of lifting you on to the horse himself. The footstool I can tell nothing about for I have almost forgot whether a lady has a foot. The fashion here is to have very small feet if any, the Ladies appear to be chiefly rumps and heads. I conclude you have received your letter which you expected from me, but when it was wrote or what was in it I cannot recollect. This with all my letters to you I expect my wife will see, & as I believe I shall not write to her by this Post, she will consider this as a token of that constant affection and remembrance I have of her. I wish that she & you may enjoy days of ease and nights of pleasure & that I shall soon have an agreeable interview with all my friends. Next Wednesday is the day appointed for a pompous procession in this City & I hope it will bethe last I shall see or hear of this year. The house flies are a perfect plague here, and I shall be disposed to leave this city if it was only to be out of the way of them. I hope you will send on to head quarters your muster roll soon which you was about when Mr. Adams wrote to me. I shall enclose to you some poectical lines for diversion & some visiting cards for Sally, My love to my wife & children and compliments to every body else. The Episcopal Bishop last Sunday at St. Pauls Church manufactured two priests according to the american fashion. I have room to say no more adieu. PW to Miss Hannah
RC (InU--;Li: Lafayette Collection).
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James Madison to Edmund Randolph
My Dear Sir New York July 22. [1788]
The inclosed papers will give you a view of the business in the Convention at Poughkepsie. It is not as yet certain that the ratification will take any final shape that can make New York immediately a member of the new Union. The opponents can not come to that point without yielding a compleat victory to the federalists, which must be a severe sacrifice of their pride. It is supposed too that some of them, would not be displeased at seeing a bar to the pretensions of this City to the first meeting of the New Government. On the other side, the zeal for an unconditional ratification is not a little increased by contrary wishes.
There have been no late arrivals from Europe: nor any news from any other Quarter.
Don't omit sending me the papers containing the series of letters announced in a late one.(1) Yr. Affecte friend, Js. Madison Jr
RC (DLC: Madison Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:191.
1 For the letters of the "Republican" announced in the July 9 Virginia Independent Chronicle, see ibid., pp. 192n, 231; and Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 10:1710, 1754--;56.
Thomas Tudor Tucker to St. George Tucker
My dear St. George New York July 22d. 1788. In Congress.
I thank you for your several kind Favors to the 30th June, the particular Dates of which are not at present before me. Your Poem I receiv'd & perused with pleasure.(1) I observe that there are several Alterations made since I formerly read it, which appear to me to be for the better. I am sorry to agree with you that those Sentiments of equal Liberty which make the Ground work as well as Spirit of your whole poem, are getting so much out of Fashion, & at this very early Period after so heavy a Sacrifice to Principle which we are but too much inclined to abandon. The Adoption of the Constitution by your State has given it a firm Foundation, & will be the means of bringing in the State of New York which otherwise wou'd certainly have rejected it; and I suppose N. Carolina woud have follow'd the Example. The enclosed paper will shew you the present State of the Business in Poughkeepsie. A temporary Adoption, to be conditionally perpetual seems to be most likely to take place. In what Light this may be consider'd, I know not. Some will deem it a valid Adoption; others will probably
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think that it is inadmissible & amounts to a Rejection. It gives me infinite pain to find that your Opinion respecting our dear Brother(2) corresponds so much with my own first Alarms. I cou'd wish to reconcile the Circumstances to a different Explanation.
July 28th. We have receiv'd Accounts of the unconditional Adoption of the Constitution by this State, which has occasion'd a great & rather intemperate Joy in the Citizens here.(3) We are now upon the Business of the preparatory Arrangements, & I will not detain this to make observations on this or any other Subject. From Mr. Madison I had reason to expect you here before this day, which is the reason I have not been anxious to write to you. I directed a Letter to you from the Boys this day. They are well & I hope, going on properly in their Studies. With respect to their Expences I wish to have more particularly your Sentiments. The Disbursements for them already amount to about 60£ this Curry. I cannot add, for we are at this moment on a very interesting point. God bless you.
Yrs. most sincerely & affectionately, Tho. Tud. Tucker
RC (ViW: Tucker--;Coleman Papers).
1 For St. George Tucker's Liberty, a Poem; On the Independence of America (Richmond: A. Davis, 1788), see Evans, Am. Bibliography, no. 21,508.
2 Undoubtedly Nathaniel, for whom see Tucker to Tucker (1st letter), April 17. Their brother Henry, a Bermuda lawyer and merchant, did not figure significantly in their 1788 correpondence.
3 The New York ratifying convention adopted the Constitution on July 26 by the margin of 30 to 27.
Abraham Clark to Thomas Sinnickson
Sir, New York July 23d. 1788.
I am favoured with yours of the 12th instant by Major Story which I recd yesterday---;his Journey I find has been unsuccessful.(1)
As to my sentiments respecting the New System of Government, altho' you do not ask, yet, as I find by your Letter it will be Acceptable, I think it not amiss to give them. They have at no time been concealed. I never liked the System in all its parts. I considered it from the first, more a Consolidated government than a federal, a government too expensive, and unnecessarily Oppressive in its Opperation; Creating a Judiciary undefined and unbounded. With all those imperfections about it, I nevertheless wished it to go to the States from Congress just as it did, without any Censure or Commendation, hoping that in Case of a general Adoption, the Wisdom of the States would soon amend it in the exceptionable parts; Strong fears however remained upon my mind untill I found the Custom of recommending
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amendments with the Adoptions began to prevail. This set my mind at ease. It became clear in my opinion from the Oppositions, and the general concurrence in proposing amendmts. that the present plan must undergo some alterations to make it more agreable to the minds of the great Numbers who dislike it in its present form. The Amendments I wish are not numerous; many proposed by the different Conventions appear of but little Consequence, yet some are important and must be Acceded to if ever the Government sits easy. From this State of the matter, wishing amendmts. as I do, you will readily conclude I anxiously wish every state may come into the adoption in order to effect a measure with me so desireable; in which case, from the general current of amendments proposed, we shall retain all the important parts in which New Jersey is interested.
To your quere about our paper money, I dare not venture a Conjecture what effect the new Government will have upon it. I suppose, however, no interference will be had in that or any Law now in force so far as respects Citizens of the same State. In Continental affairs, and between Citizens of different States I Suppose the case will be otherwise. Our paper probably will not then be received in the Treasury of the United States, or in our State by Citizens of another State, in which Cases it will cease to be a legal tender.
As to the Arrears of Taxes payable to the Continental receiver, I believe our paper will readily be received. The difficulty of obtaining money from the exhausted state of our finances makes our money, notwithstanding the loss sustained upon it, eagerly sought after. I know public Creditors are anxious to Obtain orders on our Loan officer when they can hear he hath any of our paper on hand; large orders have been given upon him which the holders Accepted in expectation of receiving paper only. As to Specie they know at present none is expected.
If any remedy is applied to our paper money it must come through our Legislature. Ibelieve it would have a good effect if the Interest and such of the principle as may be paid in was destroyed, and the amount of the Interest raised by taxes.
It is said the Speaker is about calling our Legislature on account of the Adoption of the New Constitution; this is altogether unnecessary as the New Congress will not be convened before February, the Situation of several States require such a distant time; the Usual time of meeting in October will be soon enough to make the necessary provision for appointing officers &c.
We have been some time in Suspense about the event of the New Constitution in this State. The Accounts of last evening were that the Convention had Adjourned to a future day, if that is the Case they mean at next meeting to adopt it. Before I seal this I may likely hear whether the above report is true or not.
Sir, Your Obedt. Humble servt., Abra. Clark
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P.S. I cannot find that the Acct. of the Conventions Adjourning is Supported by any good Authority.
RC (PHi: Conarroe Collection). Addressed: "Thomas Sinnickson Esquire, Salem, New Jersey." Endorsed: "The Post Master at Philada. is desired to forward this to Mr. Sinnickson."
1 Notwithstanding the failure of John Story's three memorials to Congress to this point, a committee appointed March 12 and renewed July 28 reported a recommendation in his favor on September 5 for his pay as commissioner of accounts for Pennsylvania, which Congress adopted the same day. See PCC, item 41, 9:219--;22, 293--;322; and JCC, 24:160, 183--;84, 28:46n, 47n, 313--;14, 434, 31:514n, 34:16--;18, 91n, 107--;8, 366n, 500.
James Madison to Thomas Jefferson
Dear Sir New York 24. July 1788
Your two last unacknowledged favors were of Decr. 20 and Feby. 6.(1) They were received in Virginia, and no opportunity till the present precarious one by the way of Holland, has enabled me to thank you for them.
I returned here about ten days ago from Richmond which I left a day or two after the dissolution of the Convention. The final question on the new plan of Government was put on the 25th of June.(2) It was twofold 1. whether previous amendments should be made a condition of ratification. 2. directly on the Constitution in the form it bore. On the first the decision was in the negative, 88 being no, 80 only ay. On the second & definitive question, the ratification was affirmed by 89 ays agst. 79 noes. A number of alterations were then recommended to be considered in the mode pointed out in the Constitution itself. The meeting was remarkably full; Two members only being absent and those known to be on the opposite sides of the question.(3) The debates also were conducted on the whole with a very laudable moderation and decorum, and continued untill both sides declared themselves ready for the question. And it may be safely concluded that no irregular opposition to the System will follow in that State, at least with the countenance of the leaders on that side. What local eruptions may be occasioned by ill-timed or rigorous executions of the Treaty of peace against British debtors, I will not pretend to say. But altho' the leaders, particularly H---;---;y ---; & M---;s---;n(4), will give no coutenance to popular violences it is not to be inferred that they are reconciled to the event, or will give it a positive support. On the contrary both of them declared they could not go that length, and an attempt was made under their auspices to induce the minority to sign an address to the people which if it had not been defeated by the general moderation of the party, would probably have done mischeif.
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Among a variety of expedients employed by the opponents to gain proselytes, Mr. {Henry first and after him Col. Mason introduced}(5) the {opinions expressed in a letter from a correspondent [Mr. Donald or Skipwith I believe](6)} and endeavored to turn the influence of your {name even against parts of which I knew you approved}. In this {situation I thought it due to truth} as well as that it would be most agreeable to {yourself} and {accordingly took the liberty to state some of your opinions on the favorable side}. I am informed that copies of extracts of a letter {from you were handed about at the Maryland convention with a like view of impeding the ratification}.(7)
N. Hampshire ratified the Constitution on the 21st Ult. and made the ninth State. The votes stood 57 for and 46 agst. the measure. S. Carolina had previously ratified by a very great majority. The Convention of N. Carolina is now sitting. At one moment the sense of that State was considered as strongly opposed to the system. It is now said that the tide has been for some time turning, which with the example of other States and particularly, of Virginia prognosticates a ratification there also. The Convention of N. York has been in Session ever since the 17th Ult. without having yet arrived at any final vote. Two thirds of the members assembled with a determination to reject the Constitution, and are still opposed to it in their hearts. The local situation of N. York, the number of ratifying States and the hope of retaining the federal Government in this City afford however powerful arguments to such men as Jay, Hamilton, the Chancellor[,] Duane and several others; and it is not improbable that some form of ratification will yet be devised by which the dislike of the opposition may be gratified, and the State notwithstanding made a member of the new Union.
At Fredericksburg on my way hither I found the box with Cork Acorns, Sulla & peas, addressed to me.(8) I immediately had it forwarded to Orange from whence the Contentswill be disposed of according to your order. I fear the advanced season will defeat the experiments. The few seeds taken out here by the President at my request & sown in his garden have not come up. I left directions in Virginia for obtaining acorns of the Willow Oak this fall, which shall be sent you as soon as possible. Col. Carrington tells me your request as to the Philosophical Transactions was complied with in part only, the 1st volume being not to be had.(9) I have enquired of a Delegate here from Rhode Island for further information concerning W. S. Brown, but can learn nothing precise. I shall continue my enquiries, and let you know hereafter the result.
July 26. We just hear that the Convention of this State have determined by a small majority to exclude from the ratification every thing involving a condition & to content themselves with recommending the alterations wished for.
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As this will go by way of Holland I consider its reaching you as extremely uncertain. I forbear therefore to enter further into our public affairs at this time. If the packets should not be discontinued, which is surmised by some, I shall soon have an opportunity of writing again. In the mean time I remain with the sincerest affection, Your friend & Servt., Js. Madison Jr.
P.S. Crops in Virginia of all sorts were very promising when I left the State. This was the case also generally throught. the States I passed thro', with local exceptions produced in the Wheat fields by a destructive insect which goes under the name of the Hessian fly. It made its first appearance several years ago on Long Island, from which it has spread over half this State, and a great part of New- Jersey; and seems to be making an annual progress in every direction.
RC (DLC: Madison Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:196--;98.
1 See Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:438--;42, 568--;70.
2 For the June 25 proceedings of the Virginia ratifying convention, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 10:1515--;43.
3 That is, Notley Conn and Thomas Pierce, for whom see ibid., p. 1676n.
4 Patrick Henry and George Mason.
5 Words printed in braces in this text were written by Madison in cipher.
6 Brackets supplied by Madison. For Henry's reference in a June 9 speech to Jefferson's February 7 letter to Henrico County delegate Alexander Donald, see ibid., 9:1088n.7. For the text of the letter itself, see Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:570--;72.
7 In his December 31 letter to Uriah Forrest of Maryland, Jefferson had enclosed an extract from his December 20 letter to Madison giving his opinion on the Constitution. Although he gave Forrest permission to reveal the content of the extract, Forrest was to do so "without quoting it's author." See ibid., pp. 475--;79. See also Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:66n.4.
8 This box was sent with Jefferson's letter of February 6, for which see note 1 above.
9 See EdwardCarrington to Jefferson, May 14, note 5.
Virginia Delegates to Edmund Randolph
Sir, New York July 25. 1788
We do ourselves the honor to inclose to your Excellency a paper which was put into our hands a few days ago by the Minister of France at a conference he had with us at his own request upon the Case of Capt. Ferrier, the subject of a late Resolution of Congress.(1)
Your Excellency must have Observed from that Resolution that Congress was careful to avoid a decision as to the Authority to which Capt. Ferrier might be amenable, having gone no further than to determine that he ought to be apprehended.
The Minister mentions the Consular Convention entered into in the year 1784 by Doctor Franklin & the Count Vergennes, as being considered a Valid Act by the King of France; it is therefore proper for
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us to inform your Excellency that it has not been Ratified by Congress. The Ratification has been delayed on account of some objectionable points, upon which Mr. Jefferson is now charged with negotiations.(2) The business is, however, in a delicate situation, and it is the wish of Congress that the affair of Capt. Ferrier may be so treated as to produce no discussion that can possibly be avoided.
We have the Honor to be, with the greatest respect, Your Excellencies Mo. Obt. Servts., Js. Madison Jr.
Ed. Carrington
Cyrus Griffin
RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). Written by Carrington and signed by Carrington, Griffin, and Madison.
1 The "paper" given to the Virginia delegates by the comte de Moustier was his protest against Virginia's conduct in the case of Capt. Joseph Marie Anne Ferrier, who had been seized by the French consul in Virginia for maritime crimes but was released by a local sheriff under Virginia law. It is in the Continental Congress Papers, Vi, and has been printed with a condensed translation in Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:199--;201. For the context of the adoption of the "late Resolution of Congress" June 13, see Hugh Williamson to Samuel Johnston, May 30, note 2. Governor Randolph's August 2 reply and other documents pertaining to the case are in ibid., 11:192--;94, 216--;18.
2 For Thomas Jefferson's involvement in this case and its significance to the negotiation of the Franco-American consular convention signed in Paris in November 1788, see Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:228, 249, 251, 14:82--;84, 86.
Edward Carrington to William Short
My dear Sir, New York July 26. 1788
Since the Sailing of the French Packet in June no opportunity of writing has offered except by way of the British Post Office, which, as well on account of the expence, as hazards, I thought an ineligible mode. This goes by way of Holland, and although a private hand is the bearer so far, yet it is probable it may be forwarded by post to Paris. I shall therefore make it as little bulky as possible, and will beg the favor of you to make my apology to Mr. Jefferson, to whom Mr. Madison is writing pretty fully by the same conveyance; this will, at the same time, incur expence enough, and supercede the necessity of my writing to him.
By the June Packet I did myself the pleasure to inform Mr. Jefferson of the adoption of the Constitution in South Carolina as the eighth State(1) ---;Since that N. Hampshire, & Virginia have also acceded by Small Majorities, the Minorities however have acquiesced. Mr. Madison will inclose papers per whence you will be informed of the characters for and against in Virginia. New York & North Carolina are now in session---;the latter convened so lately that we have received no intelli-
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gence from her; she must doubtless follow Virginia implicitly. N. York has been sitting about 6 weeks at Poughkepsi, 80 Miles from the City. A very great Majority have all along been decidedly in the opposition, but the situation of the business, from the adoption of so great a Number of States, has been embarrassing to them. They have wished to reject, but knew not how to do it---;a conditional adoption has been brought forward in a variety of Shapes, but all have even displeased the party projecting them after a little consideration. Thus has the time of this assembly been spent; but it is expected that in a very few days; their deliberations will issue in an absolute adoption, attended with recommendatory amendments, nearly such as Virginia have agreed to. Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Jay and Chancellor Livingston have Conducted the federalists. Governor Clinton, a Mr. Lansing & a Mr. Smith have conducted the Antifederalists. These have become established terms throughout the United States, to distinguish the supporters, and opponents of the constitution.
We may now contemplate this Fabrick as erected, and permit me my dear Friend to congratulate you upon the event. So thorough a revolution was never before effected by Voluntary Convention, and it will stand as a lasting monument of a wisdom and congeniality peculiar to America. The system yet requires much to make it perfect, and I hope experience will be our guide in taking from or adding to it. There is however some reason to fear that alterations will be precipitated, so as to prevent some of the benefits which might result from trial. The exponents have acquiesced so far as to attempt nothing unconstitutionally, but, I apprehend it will now be their drift, to get into the Congress men who will promote the measure of a General convention at too early a period. I am persuaded that could the Government operate uninterrupted, for a few years; many of the visionary dangers which have been apprehended, would vanish, and in that time the real defectswould be discovered & the remedies suggested.
Congress are now about to put the Government in Train to Commence proceedings---;perhaps it will assemble somewhere about February or March next.
I am My dr sir, yr. Affet. Frend & Hl St., Ed. Carrington
RC (DLC: Short Papers).
1 See Carrington to Jefferson, June 9.
Hugh Williamson to James Iredell
Dear Sir New York 26th July 1788
You may be assured that the delegates from North Carolina have not been inattentive to the Respect they owe the State whatever may
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be their private Sentiments respecting the new Constitution. When a Committee had reported and the Question was taken up for putting the new govt. into motion and a Time was proposed for chusing Electors and Representatives & for the Members entering on Business we stated fully the Situation of our State and it was immediately agreed that the Time should be put off as far as we should alledge was absolutely necessary. But no final Question is yet taken & we believe that we shall be able to obtain such Delay that N Carolina may in the interim take her Measures. Every thing on this Head is at present stationary.(1)
Some days ago there was a large Procession here on 10 States having confederated and Congress were invited to dine with the Company some thousands of them under a particular Pavilion in the Fields. The other States attended but the N Carolina Delegates staid at Home. We conceived it was a Respect we owed the State not to celebrate an Event in our public Characters which the State we represent has not hitherto sanctioned by her approbation.
Hitherto the State of N York in Convention has not taken its Measures. It is thought they will be curious and a species of Delphic Oracle, neither an Adoption nor Rejection or both as parties may be disposed to construe it.
I am Dr Sir Your obedt servt, Hu Williamson
RC (NcD: Iredell Manuscripts).
1 See John Brown to John Smith, July 9 note 4.
Hugh Williamson to James Iredell
Dear sir New York 26th July 1788
We give bad proofs of our Knowledge whatever we may give of our Candour while we go on making mistakes & confessing that we have made them. After the inclosed was written the information contained in the inclosed Paper came to Hand by which it would seem that the New York Ratification is not like to prove a Hermaphrodite as had been apprehended. Such have been the Effects of the weighty reasoning of the minority and other very weighty considerations. By the Way the antifeds were conscious that they have in many Cases carryed their Elections by imposing false Representations on their Constituents and propagating impudent Lyes. We take for granted that N Carolina will not be the only associate of Rhode Island.
I am Dr sir, Your obedt servt, Hu Williamson
RC (NN: Emmet Collection, no. 9509).
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Paine Wingate to John Langdon
Sir New York July 26. 1788
I shall do myself the honor of addressing this letter to your Excellency, conceiving it proper at all times to give such information, as I shall suppose your Excellency would wish to receive, or may concern the interests of the State. The Secretary of Congress, no doubt, regularly and seasonably transmits to New Hampshire such acts and resolves of that body as may particularly concern them. Among those acts is one, prolonging the time for lodging the claims of the several states against the united States with the proper commissioner.(1) These claims will comprehend such as any state shall judge to be founded in equity, altho' they are not sanctioned by resolves of Congress or supported by the usual vouchers. And after they are stated, three commissioners hereafter to be appointed will have full power to examine into & admit or reject those of this description as they shall think right and just. This is a most important trust, in which all the states are interested, and some very deeply. Virginia, it is said, have claims of this kind to a very great amount, and Massachusetts not inconsiderable. Among the rest is the Penobscot expedition. I do not know how New Hampshire is circumstanced; but being apprised of the measure it is proper to endeavor to be on an equitable footing with the other states. We had some concern in the Penobscot affair, and very probably the state incurred other expences for the common defence and welfare, which ought to be adjusted conformably to the general principles established for the other states.
Among other transactions of Congress your Excellency will observe the ratifying of the loan of a million of Guilders made last spring by Mr. Adams in Holland.(2) The state of our finances in this country have hitherto been such, that there was no possibility of making payment in Europe for the interest of our loans, or for such parts of the capital as by installment become due there. It was of importance, especiallyat this juncture, to preserve our credit by a punctual fulfilment of our engagements. The new government must require some time to form the regulations & bring forth the expected resources. Many disadvantages would attend a repeated application to the money lenders for smaller sums and when pressed with immediate necessity. From these and other good considerations Mr. Adams & Mr. Jefferson were both of opinion that it would be much for the interest of the united states to secure this needed resource to enable us to pay the demands upon us in Europe to the year 1790 inclusively by which time it is hoped that our internal resources will be sufficient to supply our wants without the burden of foreign loans. Besides, altho' the contract is made for a certain sum, yet it is not likely that the loans will be filled up any faster than the monies shall become due there, so that in effect it will
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July 27, 1788
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be no more than to put upon Interest again that interest and those Instalments which shall from time to time become due and paying some other necessary expences which arise in Europe. I confess that I am extremely averse to the increase of our foreign loans, and nothing but necessity and our peculiar situation at this time would have induced me to consent thereto. So fully impressed was Congress with a sense of the present expediency that there was but one dissenting voice.(3)
Congress have omitted making the necessary arrangements for putting the new Government into effect, out of delicacy to the situation of New York, whose decision upon the proposed constitution has been expected dayly for some time. I have now the pleasure of congratulating your Excellency upon their adoption which we have just received the news of. The particulars are not yet come to hand, only that there was a majority of five in favor of an unconditional ratification. The new congress cannot meet so early as most expected and many wished for owing to the situation of some of the Southern states. I hope however that there will be no necessity of Congress meeting under the present confederation after November next. We have now all the states represented in Congress and considerable business which requires the attention of that body, but expect that as soon as the principal matters are dispatched the delegates will many of them return home. Among that number I shall be glad to be one, provided that nothing special should require my continuance here and my return shall have your Excellency consent. I have the honor to be your Excellencys most obedient & humble Servant.
Paine Wingate
RC (Nh--;Ar: State Papers, Revolutionary Correspondence).
1 See Charles Thomson to the States, June 24.
2 For this ratification October 11, 1787, see JCC, 33:649.
3 For this ratification vote July 2, 1788, see JCC, 34:281--;83.
John Armstrong, Jr. to Alida Livingston
Sunday Evening, 27th. July NYork.
My charming Alida(1) will indulge me in telling her, that this moment has closd a journey made almost intollerable by bad roads, wretched stages, and the reflexion, that every step I took was a step farther from the person whose interests most affect, and whose society only delights me. Indeed the truth is, that I had scarcely reachd the gate at the lane's end, 'till I wishd the poor Baron other friends, or less need of any; and with this wish would have dismiss'd him and his fortunes for ever, had I thought it as easy to justify such conduct to you, as I found it so, to reconcile it to myself. Can a Mistress be pleas'd with any Species of infidelity in a lover? Can that lover be
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July 27, 1788
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faithfull to his Mistress who deserts his friend? I felt how you would answer these questions, and the recollection of your Morality reviv'd a sense of my own. This is one specimen of your influence---;but dare I tell you the farther secret, that I find myself insensibly trying everything by the same rule, and making your approbation the test of propriety? Be this communication right or wrong, of this at least I am certain, that where I don't mistake your opinions mine will always be the better of them.
I have yet but heard that Mrs. Lewis and Mrs. Mary are well.(2) The moment I close this scrawl (which post-office hours will make very suddenly necessary) I shall set out to see that they are so. I have yet learn'd nothing that can enable me to say when the Baron's affair will be brought to issue.(3) The public Councils, like the public mind, seem to be engross'd by the contemplation of the New Gover[n]ment---;its organization & time & place of meeting. The last is I find very interesting to the good people of this city & I know not whether a Pennsylva. delegate can mingle in any society without a risque of either insult or seduction. Don't be astonish'd that the fair should be made the instruments of both & (if report says true) that when the tongue (their natural weapon) fails, they resort to the hand, & even box & pull hair. By the next post I hope to be able to tell you that this fever has subsided---;that the streets may be walk'd in safety---;that the New Congress meets at Philada.---;that the Baron's business is decided and that I am again at liberty to exchange the bustle of the City for the quiet of Clermont, and the clamors of faction and Cabal, for the small sweet voice of love & friendship.
Shall I have one line in answer to this, if it be but to tell me you are well?
Make my love to your Mama---;persuade all your amiable sisters to accept it---;and for yourself, my dear Alida, receive the most sincere, the most affectionate wishes of, J Armstrongjr.
RC (John Armstrong Papers, Rokeby Collection, Barrytown, N.Y.).
1 Alida Livingston (1761--;1822), the daughter of Robert R. (1718--;75) and Margaret Beekman Livingston, and sister of Robert R. Livingston (1746--;1813), of the Clermont estate. Armstrong had apparently begun his courtship with Alida the preceding winter when the Livingstons were wintering in New York. He had just recently been their guest at Clermont. He and Alida were married there January 19, 1789. See Skeen, John Armstrong, pp. 28--;30. For Alida's family, see the genealogical chart at George Dangerfield, Chancellor Robert R. Livingston of New York, 1746--;1813 (New York: Harcourt, Brace and World, 1960), pp. 516--;17.
2 That is, Alida's sister Gertrude, wife of Morgan Lewis, and her sister-in-law Mary McEvers Livingston, wife of her brother Edward. Ibid.
3 That is, baron Steuben, whose claim for a pension and settlement of his Continental accounts had long been before Congress. He and Armstrong had been living at the same boarding house in New York. Skeen, John Armstrong, p. 28.
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July 27, 1788
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Portrait of John Armstrong jr.
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July 27, 1788
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James Madison to James Madison, Sr.
Hond Sir, New York July 27. 1788.
Since my arrival here I have been perfectly free from my bilious symptoms, and enjoy at present my usual share of health. John continues to be sick and is in very low plight indeed. Altho' he walks about, I think his thorough recovery extremely doubtful. He was so ill in Philada and my stay there so short that these circumstances added to my own indisposition at the time, prevented my taking any steps with regard to Anthony.(1) Perhaps some other opportunity may offer for making the trial you suggested. I think however there is little ground to count on much success in the case.
After a very tedious discussion, the Constitution has been ratified by the Convention of this State. It was carried by a majority of 5, the ays being 30, the noes 25. Amendments in general similar to those of Virga. are recommended, and a confidence expressed in the act of adoption that they will be incorporated in the Constitution. The Convention of N. Carolina has not been heard from since it met. Congress are at present making the arrangements for putting the Government into operation.
Remember me affectly to the family and be assured that I remain with every filial sentiment, Your Obedt son & servt., Js. Madison Jr
RC (DLC: Madison Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:208.
1 For Madison's slave John and the family's runaway slave Anthony, see ibid., 9:155n.1, 10:118, 11:208n.1.
North Carolina Delegates to Samuel Johnston
Dear Sir New York 27th July 1788.
By Express last Night from Pokepsie we learn that on Friday 25th a Motion was made for adopting the new Constitution as recommended by the general Convention on Septr. last, this Motion was carryed by a majority of Five. A previous Question had been taken for adopting the Constitution for a limited Time &c. [This] was lost by a majority of four. The Papers [we] shall forward may contain more particulars. The Inhabitants of this City since the arrival of the above Intelligence have hardly been moderate in their Expressions of Joy. The State of New York had so many Arguments of private Interest that seemed to tempt her to adhere to the old form of Government that we confess the Act mentioned was rather unexpected at so early a Period. This Event is of such Importance that we conceive ourselves bound to give
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July 27, 1788
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you Notice of the same by the first Conveyance. Captn. Chr. Clarke who was to sail early on this morning is charged with this Intelligence which probably will be forwarded from Edenton by Express but as Water Passages are more uncertain we shall forward this by Post and request of some Gentleman in Petersburg to give it furtherance.
Congress are extremely desirous to fix the Time and Place where and when Proceedings shall commence under the new Government; Hitherto they have been restrained, partly as we conceive, from Regard to the feelings of our State; we flatter ourselves however that no Time will be lost in [let]ting us know the Result after our Convention shall have taken its Resolution.
We have the Honour to be with the utmost Consideration, Dear sir, Your most obedient and very humble Servants, Hu Williamson
[John] Swann
RC (DLC: Peter Force Collection, North Carolina Convention). Written by Williamson and signed by Williamson and Swann.
Jeremiah Wadsworth to John Chaloner
Dear Sir New York July 27 1788
I find a report of Mr Millegans in the Board of Treasury(1) which is intended to criminate me & you as my agent for not delivering the Acctt of supplies made the French Navy in Season. I want from you such facts respecting the business as are in your power to furnish. I suppose we were quite in season with our Accts. but the Issueing department delayed---;but Mr Millegan with his usual candor has placed the whole to my account & Yours. I think you must have derived some information from your late employment to settle those accounts of M & H besides what your Books & Papers give you. Let me hear from You on this subject as soon as possible.
Mr Colt informs me that Mr. Morris's overseer has a fine Breed of English Hogs. I wish you could get me a Sow & Boar pig and send them in a Coop by some of our Coasters.
My love to Mrs. Chaloner & the Children. I hope you will be able to furnish me soon with money for Mr Church as the Packet Sails on the 7th of August. I am dear Sir, Yours, J Wadsworth
RC (PHi: Chaloner and White Collection).
1 No record of this report survives in the papers or journals of Congress. James Milligan had been comptroller of the Continental treasury until the office was abolished November 1, 1787. JCC, 33:510.
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July 28, 1788
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William Irvine to William Alexander
Dear Major(1) New York July 28th. 1788
I confess I do not very well understand the inclosed Ordinance,(2) if you do it is no matter; how, or whether you will like the arrangement in this matter I can not say, but this much I will assure you that we did for the best all matters considered, I mean now more particularly the appointments. My letter to James contains facts,(3) and every thing I ever said on the subject except the conversation with yourself, I have left my letter open that you may peruse it and afterwards forward to him together with what ever you may Judge proper to say to him on the subject. I hope you will take him by the hand, or rather under your wing, in this business---;what I have said to him will shew you my Ideas I need not th[e]refore now repeat them, indeed I have not time at this Post. Mr. Hutchins(4) will set out in a few days for the West, he says he will be detained ten or twelve days in Philadelphia---;he does not speak with certainty but thinks it probable he will take Carlisle in his way. York town is his usual rout. I will however ask him to drop you a line before he leaves Philadelphia, in case he should not go through Carlisle.
There is nothing new here, except that N york has at last adopted the new Government, by a Majority of five only, so great was the majority against it, til the last moment, that it is evident---; no other consideration but a fear of being left out of the Union induced them to accede---;they were not convinced, of the propriety, but the necessity. Congress have granted the aid of the Union to Penna. on her requisition, to quell the Wyoming Insurgents, so far as 100 Men for two weeks will do it.(5) These are Recruits on the march to the Ohio.
I am Dear Major, Your friend & Servt., Wm. Irvine
NB. I beleive it will be best to send James's packet by a private hand, if it goes by Post it will go on to Fort Pitt where it might lie for months---;unless the Post Rider will undertake to leave it atsome particular place that you may desire. Hannas town will be best unless carried directly to him.
RC (PHi: Dreer Collection). Addressed: "Major Alexander."
1 Alexander was formerly a lieutenant and captain in Irvine's Sixth Pennsylvania Battalion, and major of the Third Pennsylvania Regiment. See Heitman, Historical Register, p. 60; and John B. B. Trussell, The Pennsylvania Line: Regimental Organization and Operations, 1776--;1783 (Harrisburg: Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, 1977), pp. 56, 58, 93--;94.
2 Undoubtedly the "supplement" to the western land ordinance adopted by Congress July 9. See JCC, 34:305--;10.
3 See the following entry.
4 That is, Thomas Hutchins, the geographer of the United States.
5 See Pennsylvania Delegates to Benjamin Franklin, this date.
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July 28, 1788
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William Irvine to James Irvine
Dear James New York July 28th 1788
You will receive herewith a Commission, Instructions And the Ordinance of Congress under which the Geographer Genl. has his Authority for Appointing You. Major Alexander is also Appointed to a District on the Wabash.(1) When I saw you I did not expect more than the upper district between you, and my desire was that the Major should be the person named to the Appointment and you to aid him in the Business, But having named You the last year to Mr. Hutchins for Employment when the Major was in Ireland he put you on his list as the first. When I arived here last I found the Ordinance had passed and waited on him for an Appointment for Majr. Alexander Agreeable to a promise he made me in his Behalf this Spring, he told me he could not deviate with propreity from a rule he had Establish'd to employ in regular order those he had first promised. But on my pressing him he Agreed to give the Major the Second District so instead of one Between you You will each have one. If therefor one would have been an Object for both the two will be greater.
I think it would be best for you and the Major to Act in Consert first finish one district, you can do the More Laborious part while he can do the draughting and more Nicer parts. Whether it will be worth Acceptance or not I cannot say---;this will depend on many Circumstances.
Be this as it may we could not procure any thing better at this time for Either of you. I think it might be well for you and the Major to have a meeting as soon as Convenient when You can determin on What Answer to give Mr. Hutchens as well as fix other matters---;as the price of Surveying is to be fixed by the Governor & Judges who are now at Muskingom. The Majr. will probably proceed there immediatly as it will be Necessary to ascertain this before you or he can probably give an Answer to the Geogrr. whither you Accept or not---;should he take this method he will doubtless call on you in his way. He can Accomplishthis Object best being personally acquainted with the Gentlemen. Mr. Hutchens will soon proceed to Muskingom where he can be servicable in fixing the fees, if the Major can Attend him down it will answer the double purpose of accomplishing this Object and give him an Answer as to the Acceptance. I take for granted you will be governed in a great degree by the Majors Advise and Opinion respecting this Business. I will forward your Commission &c. to the Majors care. I suppose he will write you by the same Conveyance. I shall leave this Letter open for his perusal as I have not time to write him at large. I shall only add for the present, that you will not need to be in much hurry About your Answer to the Geogrr. as the Secretary at war thinks he cannot Arange matters in less than three or four Months for
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July 28, 1788
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begining to Issue the Warrants---;So that I take for granted you will not be able to survey any before next Spring, in this case you will have the whole of this fall and next winter to prepare. I do not mean by this that so good an oppertunity as the present should be let slip of seeing Governor St. Clair at the Muskingom as it is probable whenever the treaty is over he will go to Post St Vincent. This part of the business as I said before will most probably be left to the major---;should be inconvenient for him to go there now the Governor will probably visit his family in the fall or winter. Write me as soon as you can.
In the mean time, I am Dr. James, Affectionately Yrs.,
Copy signd. Wm. Irvine
Tr (InHi: Mitten Collection---;Northwest Territory). Addressed: "Mr. James Irvine."
1 See the preceding entry.
Pennsylvania Delegates to Benjamin Franklin
Sir, New York 28th July 1788.
We had the honor to offer for the consideration of Congress two applications from the honourable the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania for a detachment of the Troops of the Union, one dated the 18th and the other the 22d Instant,(1) we took the earliest opportunity in our power to effect a speedy determination, the result of which we herewith transmit(2) and have the honor to be,
With very great regard, Your Excellency's Most Obedt & Huml Servants Wm. Irvine Wm Bingham
John Armstrong jr James R. Reid
PS We will move for, and hope to obtain the troops as long as the State may require them.(3)
RC (NN: Emmet Collection, no. 890). Written by Reid, and signed by Armstrong, Bingham, Irvine, and Reid.
1 The Pennsylvania Council had instructed its congressional delegates to seek the use of Continental troops to quell the recent "disturbances" in Luzerne County's Wyoming Valley, a request they submitted to Congress on July 22. Their motion was referred to a committee consisting of Abraham Clark, Pierpont Edwards, and William Irvine, which reported July 24. As a detachment of troops destined for the Ohio Valley was already rendezvousing at Easton, Pa., the committee recommended that they be made available to Pennsylvania, provided they "not be delayed in the march to the Ohio more than two weeks," a recommendation Congress adopted July 25. See Pa. Archives, 1st ser. 11:342, 350; and JCC, 34:350--;51, 354--;56. For the Wyoming Valley unrest at this time, see also Paine Wingate to John Pickering, July 17, note.
2 The enclosed congressional "determination" was officially transmitted to Franklin this day with the following letter from Secretary Charles Thomson. "I have the honor to transmit to Your Excellency herewith enclosed An Act of the United States in Congress Assembled, which was passed in consequence of a Motion made by the Delegates to
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July 29, 1788
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Pensylvania, pursuant to Instructions from the supreme executive Council." RG 27, PHarH.
3 The Pennsylvania Council subsequently responded---;to a now missing August 4 letter from James Reid "respecting the Continental troops now at Easton"---;"that from the intelligence we have from Luzerne county, the Continental troops will not be wanted by this State." Pa. Council Minutes, 15:505.
Paine Wingate to Samuel Lane
Dear Sir New York July 29. 1788
For the sake of giving you the earliest intelligence I can, I shall now give you a short letter in great hurry. I congratulate you on the favorable and unexpected determination of New York respecting the new Constitution; an account of which I will enclose. This was a most desireable event especially to the Eastern states. North Carolina [Conve]ntion is now in Session & we expect to he[ar] of their adoption within a fortni't. Rhode Island yet remain antifederal. All the states are now represented in Congress, but I expect the members will many of them return home as soon as some necessary business shall be dispatched. I wish to tarry no longer than necessity shall require, out of principle of Oeconomy to the state, as well as a fondness for home. I therefore purpose to return as soon as the other members are scattering, which probably may be in about a month. My wife can inform you of some news respecting her brother Timo. Pickering which I cannot here relate.(1) It is said that the insurgents have put him into the hands of some Indians to keep in the woods, lest he should be retaken by the force sent to apprehend the rioters. But Mr. Pickering has desired that government would make no dishonorable concessions to those people for his sake. Thô I do not think that Mr. Pickering will be injured personally further than by the hardship of his [impri]sonment, yet I desire not the above [cir]cumstance should be mentioned to my wife. I expected this day to have been able to inform you of the place in which the new Congress will meet. But the President was so unwell that he could not attend & the business was postponed. Congress have agreed that the Electors of President shall be appointed on the first Wednesday of Janr., the President be chosen the first Wednesday of Feb. & Congress assemble the first Wednesday of March next.(2) Those periods may be thôt by some to be very late but earlier dates could not suit the situation of some ofthe Southern States. I believe notwithstanding the meeting of the new Congress is so late there will not be necessity of another Congress under the present Confederation after Novr. next. There are great struggles between Philadelphia & New York which shall be the place of Congress. I think the former most likely to prevail but this is only mere conjec-
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July 29, 1788
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ture. I thank you for your information in your last letter & shall be good to receive communications from you whenever it is convenient. [Will] you please give my compliments to Colo Simon Wiggin & let him know the contents of this, which I think he will be very glad to receive notice of.
I am your affectionate friend & humble servant, Paine Wingate
RC (MH--;H: Wingate Papers).
1 See Wingate to John Pickering, July 17, note.
2 For progress on the July 8 committee report for establishing the new government, see John Brown to John Smith, July 9, note 4.
James Madison to Tench Coxe
Dear Sir N. York July 30. 1788
I have been much obliged by your favor of the 23 instant,(1) which I have delayed to answer, in the daily prospect of being able to include the decision of Congress on the place for the first meeting of the New Government. This point continues however unfixt. Perhaps it may be brought to an issue to day. From the result of the first question taken on it, the pretensions of Philada. bade fair for success; and it is very possible may in the end obtain it. Some circumstances which have intervened with the vicisitudes to which such a question in such an assembly as Congress are liable, are notwithstanding very proper grounds for doubtful if not adverse calculations.
The observations addressed to your Western inhabitants are in my opinion as well timed as they are judicious. They will be republished here.(2) The conspiracy agst. direct taxes is more extensive & formidable than some gentlemen suspect. It is clearly seen by the enemies to the Constitution that an abolition of that power will re-establish the supremacy of the State Legislatures, the real object of all their zeal in opposing the system.
From the few enquiries I had an opportunity of making on the subject of Cotton, I found that it enters as far into the culture of the present year in Virginia, as seed could be got for the purpose. I communicated your observations to a freind who patronizes with fervor every plan of public utility, and who will give all the effect he can to your ideas.
The very freindly & flattering sentiments with which your letter concludes lay me under fresh obligations to subscribe myself with great sincerity and respect, your obedient freind & servt., Js. Madison Jr
RC (DLC: Madison Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:210.
1 See ibid., pp. 194--;96.
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July 31, 1788
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2 Coxe's address "To the Inhabitants of the Western Counties of Pennsylvania," which had been published under the pseudonym "A Friend of Society and Liberty" in the Pennsylvania Gazette of July 23, was reprinted in the New York Daily Advertiser on August 5 and 6.
Paine Wingate to John Pickering
Dear Sir: New York, July 31, 1788.
I have received no further news from your brother since I wrote last.(1) It is said that he had particularly desired that Franklin may not be released for his sake; that he had rather remain in confinement himself than that event should take place to the dishonor of government, and further that he has not received any personal abuse beside that of confinement. I think you need not make yourself uneasy, and do not doubt but Mr. Pickering will be set at liberty soon. Congress have agreed that the Executive of Pennsylvania might have the direction of ninety Continental troops, if needed, to suppress the rioters, for a limited time. These troops were raised and ready to march to the western country, and I suppose are now going that way. As soon as I shall have any intelligence further from your brother I will send you an account of it.
We have been this week much engaged in the dispute where the new Congress shall meet. The question is not determined and it is so uncertain that I will not give you a conjecture. We have now the fullest Congress that has been since the present Confederation. All the states are present, consisting of thirty-eight members. To accommodate some of the southern states it has been agreed that the Electors of President shall be chosen the first Wednesday of January, and the President be voted for on the first Wednesday of February, and Congress meet on the first Wednesday of March. These periods may be thought by some to be too late, but it was judged necessary, all things considered. The ratification of New York I think a very favorable event and very unexpected. It was brought about by some persons and circumstances little thought of some time ago. I cannot now give you any further account of our affairs for we are mighty busy. I wrote at this time for the sake of forwarding the enclosed letter which is just come to hand. I am very well, and as soon as Congress shall thin off and some particular matters beover I hope, perhaps within one month from this time, to be on my return home. This I begin to be very desirous of, when I hope to see you and all our friends well.
I am, with much esteem and affection, your friend and brother,
Paine Wingate.
MS not found; reprinted from Wingate, Life and Letters, 1:240--;41.
1 For the plight of Timothy Pickering at this time, see Wingate to John Pickering, July 17, note.
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August 1, 1788
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