Nathan Dane? to Unknown

[March 1, 1788](1) "We were, last evening, informed that the Convention of Newhampshire has adjourned to June, without coming to any decision respecting the Constitution. This was so unexpected, that we could scarcely realize it. I fear it will have a bad effect. The publick mind has been fluctuating, with regard to the system proposed---;at least in considerable districts of the community: The first impressions were favourable to the adoption of the plan: The next, occasioned by various pieces written against it, and the intemperate conduct of its zealous friends in Pennsylvania, &c. were much less favourable. The adoption of it in Massachusetts again turned the current of opinion much in its favour: The principal men in opposition in the State of Newyork, Maryland, &c. appeared to be agreed to acquiese in the adoption of it, in the form in which it has been adopted in Massachusetts; but I am quite unable to say, what effect this unexpected conduct in Newhampshire may have. Tho' my opinion, on fully examining all that has been said and written, respecting this plan, is not altered as to the amendable parts of it; yet I have been long satisfied we must, and ought to, put it into operation, and afterwards engraft the amendments into it, which time and experience shall direct. It is dangerous to remain long in our present situation, and the more so, in my opinion, on account of the storm evidently gathering in Europe. The present calm there is, I am fully persuaded, momentary, and that a war will take place among the European nations with which we are principally connected, at no very distant period. And I think we may clearly observe in their plans already, evident intentions to entangle us in their disputes. It will be impossible for us to remain neuter, and pursue our true interest, unless we shall have a national Government for effectually regulating our affairs, and controuling the conduct of our own citizens." MS not found; reprinted from the Salem Mercury (Massachusetts). 1 This extract was printed in the March 25 issue of the Salem Mercury under the heading: "An obliging correspondent has favoured us with the following extract of a letter from a Member of Congress to his friend in this county [Essex]---;dated March 1, 1788." Of the Massachusetts delegates attending Congress at this time---;Nathan Dane, Samuel A. Otis, and George Thatcher---;only Dane, who lived in Beverly, was from Essex County. And of Dane's known correspondents during the Congress of 1788, only Elbridge Gerry, Samuel Holten, and Rufus King were Essex County residents.

Page 4

March 1, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Charles Thomson to Richard Winn

Sir, Office of Secy of Congress, March 1. 1788 I have the honor to inform you that the United States in Congress assembled have appointed you Superintendant of Indian affairs in the Southern department, in the room of Mr White who has resigned. The situation of affairs in that quarter requiring an immediate appointment to that Office and Congress being uncertain whether a long continuance therein would be agreeable or convenient for you they have confined the appointment to the space of six months(1) having principally in view the settlement of a peace with the southern Indians. Inclosed I send you the resolution under which you are appointed together with your commission & instructions on the present Occasion,(2) and for your further information I also transmit herewith enclosed the Ordinance for the regulation of Indian affairs,(3) the resolution empowering the states of North Carolina, South Carolina & Georgia to appoint each one commissioner to act in conjunction with you for the purpose of negotiating a treaty to establish peace between the United States & the tribes of Indians in the southern district and a copy of the letter I wrote to those states on the occasion.(4) The oath & bond required by the Ordinance you will be pleased to forward to me by the first opportunity.(5) Heartily wishing you success in your negotiations, I have the honor to be, with great respect, Sr, Yr Most Obt & M h S, C.T. LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). 1 For this February 25 resolution, see JCC, 34:57. 2 A copy of Winn's commission is in PCC, item 182, fol. 49. For his instructions, see JCC, 33:708--;11. 3 See JCC, 31:490--;93. 4 See Thomson to Certain States, October 27, 1787. 5 Winn's March 31 response to Thomson and enclosed oath of allegiance are, respectively, in PCC, item 78, 24:603--;6, and item 195, fols. 350--;51.

Pennsylvania Delegates to Benjamin Franklin

New York 2d March 1788. Your Excellency will find enclosed a report of The Board of Treasy. on a Motion made by the Delegates of Pennsylva. "for placing the Sum of 78,642 Dols. of the bills of Credit of --;81 to the debit of the Gen. Account of said State with the United States."(1) The Board reports against the motion, & the presumption is that some Act of Congress will soon follow.(2) It will be our Object to prevent

Page 5

March 2, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

this for a week or ten days during which time We Would beg to be honored with the Advice and instructions of Council on the subject.(3) This will be the more necessary as from some circumstances or other all the documents of the last year's delegation on this point have been lost as not a single paper of the many Which I know were furnish'd in support of the claim of the State, has come down to either Gen. Irwin or myself. I am sir, With the highest respect, Your Excellency's Most Obedt. servt., J Armstrong jr for the Delegation RC (PHi: Gratz Collection). Addressed: "His Excellency the President of the S. E. Council." Endorsed: "Read in Council March 6th 1788 and referred to the Comptroller General together with the inclosure for his consideration and report. James Trimble, for Charles Biddle, Secy." 1 For the board of treasury's report on this long-standing issue, which was originally read in Congress November 3, 1786, see JCC, 31:924--;27; and Charles Pettit to Thomas Mifflin, November 8, 1786. 2 According to the secretary's list of "Reports Old, Obsolete or Negative" that was compiled November 6, 1787, no action was taken on the board's report. See JCC, 34:623. 3 For the council's response to this letter and instructions to the delegates transmitting a report of the state's comptroller general (which has not been found), see Pa. Council Minutes, 15:405, 421.

George Thatcher to Sarah Thatcher

City of New-York, March 2d. 1788. "I have this moment returned from Sir John Temples where I dined. Sir John gives me an invitation to dine with him about once a fortnight. I enjoy myself, at his Table, as well as any one I dine at. The Company is not so large as they are at the Tables of the other foreign Ministers.(1) His dinners are more of the Domestic kind, where socibility takes the Lead of mere Formality. "But, my dear, it would give me infinite more pleasure to dine at our littl[e] Table with the usual company, than at any Table I ever set at in my Life. And I begin to promise myself this delicious repast is not many weeks off. Since I mentioned to you the time, it is likely I shall be at home, my desire to leave this place and be with you makes me less happy here than I was before I said any thing about the time of being at home---;however my dear, I would not have you look for me before the middle, or last of April. It does not seem very likely to me that I shall be at York Court as I wrote you in some former Letter." RC (St. Mary of the Lake Seminary, Mundelein, Ill.). 1 Sir John Temple was the British consul general to the United States.

Page 6

March 3, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Cyrus Griffin to Thomas FitzSimons

Dear Sir March 3. 1788. My little woman has forgotten to write to me about a change of lodgings, and I was so negligent to omit an answer to your former very obliging and friendly letter. I shall be very happy that you advise lady C.(1) what is the better plan to be adopted; I do not like my family to be in a house with boarders; nor do I know any thing of the other situation; but to your Judgment we shall submit implicitly and with satisfaction---;if the family come to N. York it may not be convenient untill the last of April, perhaps not at all. We expect a packet every day which may possibly bring us some Intelligence from abroad---;in the mean time we are told that the King has consented to the Protestant Edict in France, which not only tolerates all non-Catholics, but gives them admission into Government &c. This important change has been effected principally by the Arch-bishop of Toulouse and the parliaments: France is hastening by this and other great affairs already in agitation to adopt the real principles of freedom & human Nature, and will in all probability be exhibited as one of the most illustrious nations the world has ever seen. N. Hampshire, I am very sorry to tell you that the convention have seperated without taking a question upon the important business of the constitution; it seems that the federal Members were apprehensive of a negative, and therefore came into the measure of an Adjournment untill June.(2) I consider this price of conduct as very unfortunate indeed, for nine states will not have agreed to the system before Virginia shall be assembled; this will make her in fact the preponderating state of the union; and being so placed I fear the consequences; perhaps Rhode Island may take up the discussion and accord with the plan, the best men of the country are very busy to that purpose, but as yet they appear a minority---;we are parting with our valuable friend Madison to Virginia from Congress, but still I am doubtful that all his virtues and abilities will avail nothing. Be so kind as to make my best regards to Mrs. Fitzsimons---;I hope she continues in good health this very severe season---;the weather fret's my constitution to atoms almost---;it is too cold for a southern fabrick. I am dear sir, With the highest esteem & consideration, Your most obedient C Griffin RC (PHi: Gratz Collection). 1 That is, Griffin's wife, Lady Christina Stuart, eldest daughter of the 6th earl of Traquair. DAB. 2 For the impact on other states of the adjournment of the New Hampshire convention from February 22 to June 18, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 16:179--;85.

Page 7

March 3, 1787

LINK TO ANNALS

James Madison to Edmund Pendleton

Dear Sir N. York Mar. 3. [17]88. The Convention of N. Hampshire have disappointed much the general expectation. Instead of adopting the Constitution they have adjourned without any final decision until June; this expedient being found necessary to prevent a rejection. It seems that a majority of 3 or 4 members would have voted in the negative, but in this majority were a number who had been proselyted by the discussions, but were bound by positive instructions. These concurred with the federalists in the adjournment, and carried by a majority of 57 agst. 47. It is not much doubted that in the event N. Hampshire will be among the adopting States. But the influence of this check will be very considerable in this State (N. York) and in several others. I have enquired whether June was preferred for the 2d meeting, from any reference to Virga. or N. York, and am informed that it was merely an accommodation to the intermediate annual elections & Courts. I am just setting out for Virga. and shall not write again from this place.(1) I wish you every happiness & am Dr Sir, Yr Affe friend, Js. Madison Jr RC (DLC: Madison Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 10:554. 1 By November 1787 Madison had become convinced that he must return to Virginia to stand for election to the Virginia ratifying convention from Orange Co., for which see Madison to Ambrose Madison, November 8, 1787. James Madison to Edmund Randolph My dear friend N. York Mar. 3. [17]88. The Convention of N. Hampshire have disappointed the general expectation. They have not rejected the Constitution, but they have adjourned without adopting it. It was found that on a final question there would be a majority of 3 or 4 in the negative but in this number were included some who with instructions from their Towns against the Constitution, had been proselyted by the discussions. These concurring with the fŒderalists in the adjournment, carried it by 57 agst. 47 if I am rightly informed as to the numbers. The second meeting is not to be till the last week in June. I have enquired from the Gentleman from that quarter what particularly recommended so late a day, supposing it might refer to the times fixed by N.Y. & Virga. They tell me it was governed by the intermediate annual elections and Courts. If the opposition in that State be such as they are described it is not probable that they pursue any sort of plan, more than that of Massts.

Page 8

March 3, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

This event whatever causes may have produced it, or whatever consequences it may have in N.H. is no small check to the progress of the business. The opposition here which is unquestionably hostile to every thing beyond the fŒderal principle, will take new spirits. The event in Massts. had almost extinguished their hopes. That in Pena. will probably be equally encouraged. Col. Heth arrived a day or two ago with the proceedings of the Commissrs. They will be laid before Congs. to day.(1) I have been detained from setting out for Virga. by this circumstance having fixed on yesterday for the purpose. I shall probably get away tomorrow, and possibly this afternoon. Yrs. Affey., Js. Madison Jr RC (DLC: Madison Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 10:554--;55. 1 This day Madison submitted to Congress the January 7 report adopted by the Virginia House of Delegates based on the enclosed proceedings of the three commissioners charged with settling Virginia's Continental claim for expenses incurred in capturing and administering the northwest territory during the war. Virginia had included a stipulation in its original land cession of 1781 for reimbursement for George Rogers Clark's expeditions, and Congress agreed, when it accepted the state's renewed cession in 1784, to submit the issue to three commissioners---;one appointed by Congress, another by Virginia, and a third by the other two commissioners. When William Heth replaced Edward Carrington as Virginia's representative in December 1785, he and Edward Fox, Congress' appointee, chose Col. David Henley as the third commissioner. It was not until commissioner for army accounts John Pierce replaced Fox in April 1787, however, that negotiations began in earnest. Despite the loss or destruction of many of Clark's vouchers, Heth argued for a settlement in equity of £200,000, though he would accept £150,000, while Henley supported an award of £120,000. But the parsimonious Pierce created a stalemate by reducing the sum to £50,000 and refusing further entreaties. In frustration Heth turned to the Virginia legislature, which appointed a committee chaired by George Mason whose January 1788 report called for the suspension of negotiations until the state could submit a protest to Congress. In the meantime, Virginia would withhold payment of its fiscal quota until fully reimbursed. Heth was then ordered to carry Virginia's objections with supporting documentation to New York. Submitted this day by Madison, the voluminous papers were referred to a committee of five---;Abraham Clark, Nathan Dane, William Irvine, Dyre Kearny, and Jeremiah Wadsworth. See JCC, 31:737, 741, 886n, 32:165--;66, 171--;72, 34:77n.1; PCC Miscellaneous M332, reel 7, fols. 195--;602, reel 10, fols. 211--;14; Hening, Statutes, 10:564--;66; Cal. of Va. State Papers, 4:84, 346--;47, 414--;16; Journals of the Virginia Council, 4:67, 209; these Letters, 22:304, 502--;3,

Page 23

:237

LINK TO ANNALS

; Mason, Papers (Rutland), 3:1027--;37; Madison, Papers (Rutland), 8:343n.1, 9:329n.5, 10:353n.1; and George Rogers Clark Papers, 1771--;1784, ed. by James Alton James and Theodore C. Pease, 2 vols. (Springfield, Ill.: Illinois State Historical Library, 1912--;26), 2:277--;82. For the resolution of Virginia's claims, see Virginia Delegates to Edmund Randolph, March 23, and Virginia Delegates to Heth, April 20.

James Madison to George Washington

Dear Sir N. York. March 3d. 1788 The Convention of N. Hampshire has afforded a very disagreeable subject of communication. It has not rejected the Constitution; but it

Page 9

March 3, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

has failed to adopt it. Contrary to all the calculations that had been made it appeared on the meeting of the members that a majority of 3 or four was adverse to the object before them, and that on a final question on the merits, the decision would be in the negative. In this critical state of things, the fŒderalists thought it best to attempt an adjournment, and having proselyted some of the members who were positively instructed agst. the Constitution, the attempt succeeded by a majority of 57 agst. 47, if my information as to the numbers be correct. It seems to be fully expected that some of the instructed members will prevail on their towns to unfetter them and that in the event N. Hampshire will [be] among the adopting States. The mischief elsewhere will in the mean time be of a serious nature. The second meeting is to be in June. This circumstance will probably be construed in Virga. as making cotemporary arrangements with her. It is explained to me however as having reference merely to the conveniency of the members whose attendance at their annual elections & Courts would not consist with an earlier period. The opposition I understand is composed precisely of the same description of characters with that of Massts. and stands contrasted to all the wealth, abilities, and respectability of the State. I am preparing to set out for Orange, and promise myself the pleasure of taking Mount Vernon in the way.(1) Meantime, I remain Yours most respectfully & Affetly., Js. Madison Jr RC (DLC: Washington Papers). Madison, Papers (Rutland), 10:555--;56. 1 Madison stopped at Mount Vernon March 18 and 19 and reached Orange on the 23rd in time to be elected to the Virginia ratifying convention the following day. Ibid., p. 542n.4; and Washington, Diaries (Jackson & Twohig), 5:287. In his accounts submitted to the state treasurer, Madison claimed £277.4.0 for travel and attendance in Congress from October 20, 1787, to March 23, 1788. Continental Congress Papers, Vi.

Charles Thomson to the States

Sir Circular Office of Secretary of Congress, March 3d. 1788 I have the honor to transmit to Your Excellency herewith enclosed to be laid before the Legislature a state of the representation in Congress from the 21st Jany to the end of the last Month.(1) With the greatest respect, I have the honor to be, Your Excellency's Most Obedient & Most Humble servant, Cha Thomson RC (MHi: William Livingston Papers). Addressed: "His Excellency The Governour of New Jersey." LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). According to Thomson's Memorandum Book, this letter was not sent to South Carolina or Georgia, for which see the following entry. 1 For these two enclosures and the six other monthly attendance lists sent to the states during the Congress of 1788, see Appendix.

Page 10

March 4, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Charles Thomson's Memorandum Book

[March 4--;26, 1788] March 4th. transmitted circular Letter---;March 3d. 1788(1) ---;except to South Carolina and Georgia. March 6th. Delivered to Genl Irvine---;Notes of Baron Steuben containing remarks on report of Comee. to be returned & Letter Feby. 5th, 1785 from the Baron(2) . . . do. March 26th John Cleves Symmes Esqr. recd his Commission---;one of the Judges of the western territory---; & letter of the same date transmitted.(3) MS (DNA: PCC, item 187). In the hand of Roger Alden. A continuation of Thomson's Memorandum Book, February 7--;29, 1788. 1 See the preceding entry. 2 For Steuben's "remarks" and letter, see PCC, item 19, 5:549--;52, 557--;63. See also JCC, 34:13, 357, 448--;52, 507--;12. 3 See Thomson to Symmes, March 26.

Samuel A. Otis to Henry Knox

Dear General N York 5th March '88 In a partial settlement of my clothing acots Mr Henly receipted with him [on] behalf of Otis & Henly for some shirts, Since which having perfected my settlement with Mr Walker(1) & accounted for the same I wish to get up the rect. which Mr Walker says was transfered to you & from you to General Jackson. You will oblige me by revoking it from Gen Jackson by which means Mr Walker being possessed of it may cancel what is now a nullity. I am, Dear Sir, With esteem & regard, Your most H Ser. Sam. A. Otis RC (MHi: Knox Papers). 1 Benjamin Walker was commissioner of accounts for the hospital, clothing, and marine departments.

Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon

Dear Sir New York March 6th 1788 I am honor'ed with your obliging favor of the 23d Ultimo which confirms the sad account,(1) received by the Saturday mail of our Conv-

Page 11

March 6, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

ention business. When we first received the very unexpected news every one was surprised and every friend chagrined---;much is to be apprehended from this unfortunate check to the tide of our p[o]litical prosperity---;as a Citizen of New-Hampshire I am greatly mortified and as a friend to my Country [&] mankind I dread the evils that may ensue. This unfortunate affair will at least give a temporary spring to the opposition and I fear its effects in other States; though I cannot doubt the final ratification in ours, if proper measures are adopted, to counteract the nefarious designs of the enemys to our Country; for such I shall, in future, consider all those incendiaries who are predetermined to disregard argument & reason and to sow the seeds of jealousy and discord among the people. In my first emotion on this occasion I conceived it of some importance to give a favourable turn to the popular opinion and (having heard from Boston of the instruction business)(2) published the enclosed, as being in my opinion a Statement of facts---;and which I am happy to find so correspondent to your letter. We have no foreign advices of a recent date---;but from the unsettled state of affairs in Europe, it seems to be the almost universal opinion that they will have but a short respite from the scourge of War, and should the curse fall on us in our present disjointed State the evils are inconceivable that would probably [en]sue. Our great and good friend Madison has just set off for Virginia where I hope his influence will be at least sufficient to counteract the ill effects of the backslidings of my native state. The most important business now before Congress is an application from Kentucky to be set off from Virginia and to be received into the union as a sovereign State---;in which Virginia agrees to concur on certain conditions: that she shall be released from a proportion of her federal obligations &c. &c. This is not a time for the determination of so important a Subject---;but it is so strenuously urged and the people of that Country are become so jealous and irritable as to require the most delicate management---;how it will terminate is yet uncertain. Mr. Wingate desires his best regards to you. With sentiments of the most sincere respect and esteem, I am, Dear sir, Your Most Obedient & Most Humble servant, N. Gilman RC (PHi: Dreer Federal Convention Collection). 1 Not found, but Langdon also sent this "sad account" of the New Hampshire ratifying convention's adjournment---;"without compleating the important business of adopting the Convention"---;to Rufus King the same day, for which see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 16:183. 2 For the "instruction business" that was published in the February 27 issue of the Massachusetts Centinel, see ibid., pp. 184--;85. For analysis of the ratification movement in New Hampshire, and the strategic adjournment engineered by Langdon on February 22 to prevent an adverse decision, see ibid., pp. 179--;83.

Page 12

March 7, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

William Irvine to John Nicholson

Dear Sir New york March 7th 1788 I received your favor by Mr. Bowers, his business was put in train(1) ---;one point was necessary to be clearly ascertained, Viz that the Corps was ever by any construction considered as Artillery---;a referrence to the War Office (for report) is the usual mode in such cases & was not deviated from in this. I went yesterday to that office to enquire what progress was made, and there was informed that Mr. Bowers had left town, that he requested General Knox would not make report until he should be able to procure some farther proofs or documents. After all I do not think he will or can succeed. I do not know a circumstance in their favor except that the Surgeon was adopted, but that was evidently occasioned by a blunder of Genl. Lincolns the then Secretary at War---;to which he was very subject. The fact is that there was only three men belonging to that Corps intitled to any notice, Irish, Wylie & Jordan(2)---;they were continued late in the War, all the rest were meer day laborers & went to such business as they thought proper at an early period. The Board of War at one time---;I can not now recollect the period, delegated the disposition of that Corps to me, & I dismissed them all except Wylie & Jordan. Irish was then in another department---;Commissary of Military Stores to the southward---;almost all the privates were discharged---;or furloughed, with Certificates of the number of months pay due them at the time. You have doubtless seen an extract from a Report of the board of treasury, a Copy of which was transmitted a few days since to Council(3)---;relative to the old dispute about the 70,000 Dollars. The Report has not yet been called up or acted on in Congress. I will if possible keep it out of sight, until, the sense of Council, or the Assembly if they should think proper to interfere is signified---;tho I am persuaded it will not be an easy matter to get Congress to disapprove the report. A case nearly similar of New york was reported on in the same mode in that of Penna. Virginia have stopped payment until all their claims are allowed, in an account which was sittling by Joint Commissioners---;but you will not I hope understand that I wish any other State to follow the example---;in short if Penna. & New york should---;at this moment, there is no divining doubt but bad consequences must ensue. These hints you must not consider, as public or official, should be glad however to be furnished with arguments, against the report, if good ones as I suppose there can be urged. I am Dr Sir, Your Obedt. Servt. Wm. Irvine

Page 13

March 11, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (PHi: Gratz Collection). 1 Bowers has not been identified, and no information concerning this "business" has been found in the papers or journals of Congress. 2 That is, captains Nathaniel Irish, John Jordan, and Thomas Wylie of Benjamin Flower's Artillery Artificer Regiment, 1777--;1783. Heitman, Historical Register, pp. 238, 246, 446. 3 See Pennsylvania Delegates to Benjamin Franklin, March 2.

Samuel Otis to James Warren

Dear Sir 9 March 1788 In the course of investigation I find accidentally the accts of the Navy Board E department are checkt on acct of a Cargo ballance in Cash which it is said is unaccounted for. I should think it expedient for you to write to Benj Walker Esqr marine Commissioner(1) , to know why your accts of the N Board E Department are not settled which will probably bring on the necessary explanation. In regard to your other matter Arthur Lee has only arrived in Town the last Evening which is a [reaso]n why I have defered any operations, shall soon however renew my application. I shall acknowledge Sister Warrens 28 very soon. I see by the paper Govr Cushing is no more, I suppose you will be at least as like to succeed him as any man. Inclosed is the paper & am Yours affectionably, Sam A Otis PS. I wish the Tresurer could be enabled to pay my warrant of 200£, 50£ of which is behind. The enclosures from Sister W will forward by safe hand. RC (MHi: Warren--;Adams Papers). 1 That is, Walker was commissioner of accounts for the marine department. Warren, Otis' brother-in-law, had been commissioner of the navy board for the eastern department, 1777--;81. See Morris, Papers (Ferguson), 1:190, 4:177.

Charles Thomson to Benjamin Franklin

Sir, Secretary's Office March 11th. 1788. With my acknowledgments for your letter of 12th Ulto. and the acts &c. enclosed(1) I have the honor of enclosing a copy of the journals of Congress for the month of Jany. last which are just come from the press. I am, with due respect, your most obedient servt., Cha Thomson

Page 14

March 11, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (MH--;H: bMS Am 1582). In a clerical hand and signed by Thomson. Addressed: "His Excely. The President of the State of Pensylvania." 1 Franklin's letter and enclosures are not in PCC.

Jeremiah Wadsworth to Harriet Wadsworth

My dear Harriet New York March 11th 1788 I expect to see Daniel & Catherine here on Saturday---;and shall endeaver to set out so as to be home in all this Month, any letter that will not arive here before the 20th had best remain at home. I am very well. I never have seen Fanny Wickham but once since I delivered her your letter---;that was at Col Burrs where I seldom go---; and as I have never been at but one assembly I see few people except those I visit. I am very well, to keep so it is necessary I take care of my selfe & this I can only do by avoiding Company. My love to your Mamma(1) & aunts. I am my dear child(2) your affectionate father, J Wadsworth RC (CtHi: Wadsworth Papers). 1 Wadsworth had just written a brief note to his wife on March 10, introducing a "Mr Arden who comes to Hartford on business," and wrote again on March 16 announcing the arrival in New York of his partner Peter Colt after a difficult trip from Hartford "wading thro the mud." "I shall leave this [i.e., city]," he continued, "so as to be home by the last of the Month unless the roads are impassable." Wadsworth Papers, CtHi. 2 Wadsworth had also written to Harriet on March 2, enclosing seeds for which he furnished planting instructions, and urging her to "write all about J L," who he had heard was courting her. Ibid.

Nathan Dane to Samuel Holten

Dear Sir, New York March 15, 1788. It was my intentions to have done myself the honor to have called on you before I left Massachusetts---;but several circumstances prevented. I arrived here the 20th of last month. There has been a Congress most of the time for two months past and part of the time nine States assembled but we do but very little business. Indeed we have but very little to do. It does not appear to be the intentions of Congress to engage in any important business. An adjournment has been mentioned for a few months.(1) The reasons offered against it are such as were offered against an adjournment last year with which you are well acquainted. Many of the members are of opinion that the particular situation of our public affairs at this time requires that Congress should be in sessions and the forms of the Government kept up---;this idea naturally leads us to contemplate public affairs on a large Scale, and to observe the present State of the New Constitution---;when Mas-

Page 15

March 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

sachusetts adopted it in the manner She did---;both parties seemed rather to consider the question as settled---; that it must be adopted also by the other States, and amended afterwards. But the unexpected Conduct of New Hamshire and late intilligence from Virginia and North Carolina, appear to make the adoption of the Constitution much more doubtful---;and all parties here consider the great question far from being dicided---;the opponents in this State, in Virginia and North Carolina I find say they have a very considerable majority---;the Supporters of the Constitution are doubtful. I confess it is my opinion, notwithstanding, that all these States will adopt it---;recommending amendments---;perhaps, some in addition to those recommended by Massa. I need not mention to you how important it is to keep the minds of men Cool and temperate at this time, particularly by keeping up the forms of Government and the appearances of Tranquility. Matters seem to be in a state of quiet in Europe at present, but I do not think they will remain so long. We hear nothing from that quarter that respects us particularly---;except that our friends the Dutch are very pressing for their interest money, and I expect Congress will make a short statement to the States on this subject. The States must apply some small sums at least to the use of the Union or the Federal Government must be dissolved. I am at a loss to know how the board of Treasury have done so well as they have to pay the civil list, the Dutch interest and troops in a considerable part. I believe the Union has been Supported almost wholly for a year or two past on the payments of New York, the gleanings of new Emission money, and a little tobacco from North Carolina. We have as usual much said about an Indian war. I doubt whether there will be anything more than party disputes among the plundering individuals. Kentucky and Virginia have form[al]ly applied to Congress to acknowledge the Independance of the former and to admit it into the Union. Nothing of importance has yet been done in Congress relative to the subject and, probably, there will not be at present. With the highest sentiments of esteem and respect I am dear sir, Your obdt servant, N. Dane RC (CCamarSJ: Edward J. Doheny Signers Collection). 1 Although Congress did not adjourn, it was unable to convene a quorum from March 27 to May 2. See JCC, 34:115--;19.

John Brown to James Breckinridge

Dear Breckinridge New York March 17th. [17]88 I had the pleasure to receive your favor of the 12th of Feby & am happy to find that you are still disposed to continue a Correspon-

Page 16

March 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

dence from which I promise myself much pleasure & information during my stay in this place; where from the remoteness of my situation & the difficoulty of Conveyance I am cut off from all communication with my Relations & even from any intilligence respecting them except through you. I expect that Brother James(1) has before this time bid adieu to Wm. & Mary & set out for Kentucky big with the prospect of making money & of receiving that reward which so many years spent in a painful course of study Justly merit. He has my warmest wishes for his favorable reception & Success in the world. I flatter myself that his Genius & acquired Knowledge will enable him to make his way good at least in that Country where as yet he will not meet with powerful opponents. I have at length presented the Kentucky address to Congress & from the apparent disposition of Congress at present relative to that Business I fear I shall meet with no small difficoulty in obtaining the Independence of that District.(2) The Objections are the want of power by the Articles of Confederation to admit a new State into the Union. That the admission of Kentucky is contrary to the Eastern Interest as it would throw another Vote into the Western or rather Southern Scale---;that therefore it would affect the adoption of the New Plan of Govt. in Eastern States. The reasonableness of the request of the District is admitted by all---;but the policy of the measure is disputed. I shall spare no pains or Arguments in my power to effect this measure which I have much at heart---;as I am fully convinced that the future tranquility & Glory of that Country very much depend upon the event. Knowing you to be much interested in the issue of this Business I shall from time to time give you a particular account of its progress. It now stands refered to a committee of the Whole. I am sorry that I have it not in my power to give you a favorable Account relative to the Success of the New Constitution. The Convention of N. Hampshire adj'd. without adopting it 'till June next a majority of the members having been instructed to reject it; there is little doubt but that it will finally be adopted in that State, yet I fear the present failure will be productive of bad consequences as it will give fresh spirits & Confidence to the Malcontents who were begining to dispair & relax in their opposition. Although Penselva. has adopted it yet there is a very powerful party opposed who are growing very tumultuous---; having been exasperated by the intemperate zeal of the friends to the Plan. I really dread the Consequences of its rejection---;It has already damn'd the present Govt. in the estimation of the World, it cannot, it will not drag on much longer, & should the new be rejected God only knows what will be the event. From the present Situation & disposition of the States there is little foundation to hope that any new plan can be brought forward less exceptionable than that now proposed. I hope Virginia will not be so blind to her own Interest & that of the Union as

Page 17

March 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

not to adopt it. The Necessity of the Case, with me precludes even the Idea of Hesitation. I have not time at present to inclose you any letters for my Relations in Botetourt or Montgomery but shall unless a better Oppy offers trouble you in my next with a packet for that Country---;if you have any late intilligence from that quarter let me know it. I wish much to hear from J Smith---;also whether Mr. Howard & family move this Spring to Kentucky. Let me know the present State of your University---;pray write to me more frequently every thing which drops from your pen is interesting to me. I enjoy good Health & live contentedly enjoying high life in ease plenty & good Company. But still my friends [in Kentuc]ky engross the most of my thoughts. Adieu live contented & Happy, John Brown P.S. Let me know when James Set out & his Intentions. RC (ViU: Breckinridge Papers in the collections of the Albemarle County Historical Society). 1 That is, John's brother James Brown (1766--;1835) who studied law at William and Mary College and began his practice in 1789 in Frankfort, Ky., where John was already established. They were cousins of John and James Breckinridge. Bio. Dir. Cong. 2 For the fate of Kentucky's bid for statehood, which the Virginia delegation had presented to Congress on February 29, see Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson, November 10, 1787, note 3.

Benjamin Contee to Congress

Maryland March 17th 1788

To the united States in Congress assembled

Benjamin Contee humbly represents: that he this day recd. a return Letter from N. York under care from the Honble Mr Kearny, in the delegation from the State of Delaware to Congress, which return Letter it would appear, has met with unmerited usuage, there being a post office flying Seal fixed on it---;as if the person to whom it was addressed was suspected of treasonable practices, and to disclose them the Letter had been opened. This conduct carries with it an insinuation which wounds the feelings of your memorialist, deeply, both as a citizen and a man. His patriotism and love of his country it is not necessary, he flatters himself, to adduce proof of---; neither is it of those of the Gent. who wrote the Letter, who, your memorialist is bold to say, as well for these qualities as for his abilities is an ornament to the place of his nativity and residence. But had it been otherwise---;had any other person of what description soever thought proper to address Your memorialist by Letter, an infraction of the seal would have been equally criminal, and an insult against private confidence---;your

Page 18

March 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Portrait of Benjamin Contee

Page 19

March 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

memorialist stands above suspicion! He is induced to take a constitutional mode of redress by requesting enquiry may be made by the Honorable the Congress of the united states into the insult he complains of. They have the controul of the post offices---;and with them it lieth to punish any irregularities or offences therein committed, which that they will be pleased to do, especially in the case now in point, your memorialist prays &c &c(1) MS (DNA: PCC, item 43). In the hand of Benjamin Contee. Endorsed: "Representation of B. Contee. Read 2 May. Referred to postmr genl to make enquiry & report." 1 Contee's accusation of mail tampering was read in Congress May 2 and referred to postmaster general Ebenezer Hazard who reported May 6 that the letter Contee had received had been damaged inadvertedly when sealing wax applied to the wrapper of a bundle of letters bound for New York adhered to his letter, which was then torn when the bundle was hastily opened. Congress took no action on the report. See JCC, 34:142--;43, 627. For the highly-charged context in which Contee's accusations were made, see Cyrus Griffin to James Madison, March 24, note 3.

Cyrus Griffin to James Madison

Dear Madison N.Y. March 17th [1788](1) Neither the french or the english packets have yet arrived, which is not a little extraordinary. Not a syllable of domestic news but what the enclosed papers will exhibit to you. The Marchioness(2) is a good deal better, and wants exceedingly to be present at the Indian Treaty; I think the Governor General(3) can do nothing less than take so sweet a companion in his Train; but he seems to be averse from the plan. I think the french Minister confines himself at home too much---;I am sorry he does not mix more with the Inhabitants. My dear friend---;I have been very sick for 4 or 5 days past, but I hope to attend Congress on Wednesday. I have sent forward your letter to G. L. Turberville esq. I thank you for calling upon my little people in Phil. I am dear M. with the highest consideration &c, C. Griffin RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 Madison added the year at a later time. 2 That is, the marquise de Bréhan, sister-in-law to the French minister, the comte de Moustier. 3 That is, Arthur St. Clair, governor of the northwest territory, who had been instructed by Congress on October 22, 1787, to negotiate a treaty with the northern Indians "the ensuing Spring," for which see Madison to Edmund Randolph, October 7, 1787, note 6.

Page 20

March 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

William Irvine to Thomas FitzSimons

Dear Sir, New york 17th March 1788 The enclosed extracts from a solemn application made by the Delegates of Virginia(1) , by the Joint desire of the District of Kentuckey, and Virginia, will shew you that however improper this hasty, and I may say peremptory mode of application may be, and ill timed too, yet it involves so many consequences, whichever way Congress may decide, it brings them into a dilemma. Some Gentlemen are of opinion that no new State can be admitted under the present Confederation, others fear, that, if they should be rejected now, they will not come in when we wish them; instance Vermont. There is no doubt I think but they will be an independent state next Decr, whether Congress accede or not---;this circumstance alone is all that has any weight in my mind. As it is an important business, and not much time perhaps for deliberation, or consultation---;I confess I feel myself more at a loss how to vote, than on any question that has been agitated in my time in Congress. Should you deem it of importance as I do, I am persuaded I need not make any apology for requesting you to favor me with your opinion on the subject, when a leisure moment will permit. I am Dear Sir with great esteem, Your most Obedt. & Humble Servant, Wm. Irvine RC (KyLoF: Miscellaneous Manuscripts). 1 Enclosed extracts not precisely identified, but for the "Kentucky address" that John Brown presented to Congress on February 29, which was debated in committee of the whole March 4 and June 2 and acted upon July 3, see Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson, November 10, 1787, note 3; and John Brown to James Breckinridge, this date, note 2.

Nicholas Gilman to John Sullivan

Sir New York March 22d 1788 I am honored with your Excellencys favor of the 28th ultimo and beg leave to express my thanks for the particulars of the action at Exeter.(1) That the defence of the system was great as the ground was advantageous I have no doubt; but have still to regret (with much apprehension) that the victory was not more compleat. Your Excellencys expectations of success in the next engagement affords some consolation yet I am sorry the field assign'd for the scene of action is so much in favor of the adverse party. Those that have not been in the way of seeing and hearing can hardly imagine what pernicious effects our Convention business has

Page 21

March 22, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

produced in a number of States. New Hampshire had been counted on by friends & foes as being perfectly federal---;so that from the ratification of the new system in Massachusetts, the opposers began to make excuses and change sides in all Quarters but immediately on your adjournment they augmented their forces, took possession of their old ground and seem determined to maintain it at all hazards. The Governor of this State acts no longer under covert but is open and indefatigable in the opposition. In Pennsylvania, I am informed, affairs have a most unfavourable aspect. The Antis are forming associations, holding county Conventions &c. much in the stile of the Massachusetts rebellion. By all late accounts from Virginia the opposition is there increasing and there is reason to apprehend that North Carolina is too highly tinctured with the same spirit. Patrick Henry is entirely anti-federal and Grayson is warmly opposed to the present plan. The adoption of it is certainly doubtful in New York, Virginia, North Carolina & Rhode Island. This being the case I hope no pains will be wanting to secure a Majority in the next meeting of our Convention. I do assure, Sir, our present situation appears truly alarming and I am more and more confirmed in an opinion I have long entertained that the tranquility of our Country is suspended solely on the great question of the day. I think Mr. Wingate informed your Excellency(2) of the application of Kentucky to be set off as a seperate State and taken in to the union; which Virginia will accede to on condition of her being exonerated from a proportion of her federal obligations &c. The affair has been once debated in Congress in Committee of the whole and postpon'd, since which it has not been taken up. It is an application that cannot, in the present State of affairs be complied with---;but there is such a spirit of avulsion among the people of that Country they are so impatient and importunate as to make it a subject that requires at this critical juncture, the most prudent management. An other disagreeable affair between the United States and Virginia is now before Congress. The Conditions on which the Western lands were sceded by that State to the union were that Virginia should be allowed for the necessary and reasonable expences she had incurred in subduing the British posts, maintaining forts &c in that Country, the Accounts to be adjusted and liquidated by a majority of three Commissioners. The Commissioners have been setting all winter in Virginia---;two of whom thinking it unjust to allow Virginia her enormous claims and being about to report, The Legislature (then setting) interposed, stopt their proceedings and made an appeal to Congress, in language corresponding to their Idea of their own omnipotence. I think Congress will order the Commissioners to proceed & make report---;and whether Virginia will then assume the rights of Judge & jury---;withhold all monies & endeavor to reclaim the seeded territory, as she

Page 22

March 22, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

threatens, time only will discover. They seem disposed to avail themselves of the Spirit of the times to obtain unreasonable demands. In this, however, I believe they will be disappointed and should they hasten a general occursion it is hardly supposable that they will escape the evils attending it. I shall soon be under the necessity of drawing for the small sum of money your Excellency was kind enough to mention in Mr. Wingates letter---;and hope provision will be made for paying so small a sum that I may not become liable to pay interest & Damages. I take the liberty to enclose for your Excellency's perusal, the remarks of Aristides (Alia Judge Harrison our old friend who was Secretary to General Washington) on the new plan of government(3)---; and as I cannot procure an other, shall be obliged if you will please to lend it to the Treasurer. Having drawn my letter to some length I will not trespass further than to add the perfect Respect with which I have the honor to be, your Excellencys Obedient and Very Humble Servant, N. Gilman RC (Nh--;Ar: State Papers, Revolutionary Correspondence). 1 For an analysis of these "particulars" of the New Hampshire ratifying convention, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 16:179--;83, 463n.2. 2 Not found. 3 For the Remarks on the Proposed Plan of a Federal Government by "Aristides," who was Alexander Contee Hanson of Maryland, not Washington's former military secretary Robert Hanson Harrison, see ibid., 15:517--;51. Nicholas Gilman to John Sullivan Dear Sir New York March 23d 1788 Had it been pleasing to the preserver of Man, in the Superabundance of his tender mercies to, to have removed P---;---;y with M---;---;n to the regions of darkness(1) ---;I am induced to think the new System of Government would have been adopted---;but the delay in our backsliding State has rendered it much more doubtful in my mind than it had been at any period since the Completion of the plan. The opposition is now reduced to System---;the leaders are known to each other and are indefatigable in their exertions. If they succeed I am apprehensive the sword will soon be drawn and your Excellencys early prediction be verified. I am by no means without hope of tranquility---;though I think appearances are very alarming which has brought to my mind the appointmt your Excellency was pleased to propose to me some months before I left home. I recollect the Act respecting the rank did not pass the lower house---;but was inform'd the appointment took place notwithstanding. If so and your Excellency should think proper

Page 23

March 23, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

to make the proposed promotion and forward me a Commission as soon as may be convenient I beg leave to observe---;that, at this time it would be very acceptable. Though I had always a grateful sense of your Excellys. politeness in proposing the appointment, it was never a favorite object. I am now prompted to it by the Spirit of the times and have taken the liberty to communicate my Sentiments that Your Excellency may view the affair in its connexion with the public good and determine as may seem most conducive thereto. With sentiment of the most sincere Respect, I have the Honor to be, Your Excellencys Most Obedient and Most Humble servant, N. Gilman RC (DLC: Peter Force Miscellany). 1 Notwithstanding Edmund C. Burnett's speculation that Gilman was referring to Patrick Henry and George Mason, it seems clear that Gilman's concern here was the opposition to the Constitution in New Hampshire, and that he had in mind two of the most formidable opponents of the document in that state, Nathaniel Peabody and Jonathan Moulton. Cf. Burnett, Letters, 8:709n; and Jere R. Daniell, Experiment in Republicanism. New Hampshire Politics and the American Revolution, 1741--;1794 (Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1970), pp. 184--;85, 197, 203, 212. Virginia Delegates to Edmund Randolph Sir New York March 23d. 1788 The Claim of Virginia arrising from the N Western Territory is still before a Committee of Congress. Colo. Heath is right in Opinion that more advantageous terms may be obtained by Negotiation than after a well digested report. At present we think it a reasonable expectation that if the Commissioner on the part of Virginia was Authorised to enter again upon the Business it might be Adjusted fully as much to the Satisfaction of the Commonwealth as the Nature, Circumstances, & Situation of things will Warrant.(1) We have the honor to be with profound respect & esteem Sir, Your Excellency's Most Obedient Hble Servants, Cyrus Griffin J. Brown RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). Written by Brown and signed by Brown and Griffin. 1 For the "Claim of Virgininia arrising from the N Western Territory" and the commissioners' negotiating stalemate, see James Madison to Randolph, March 3, note 1. William Heth, the Virginia commissioner, had already ascertained from committee members appointed March 3 to study the state's claims that they were reluctant to issue a report. In fact, Heth reported to Gov. Randolph on March 9 that chairman Jeremiah Wadsworth thought "it would be a damnd disagreeable piece of work to bring before Congress." Continental Congress Papers, Vi. In his diary Heth recorded meetings and conversations with members of Congress while in New York between

Page 24

March 23, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

February 29 and May 16, and on March 21 he noted that "the Virga. Delegation, thinking with me, that there is a chance of negotiating the business on better terms, than if it should be reported, have wrote this day to the Governor on the Subject of investing me with powers to enter again thereon. Wrote myself very fully to the Governor on the nature, & critical situation of the business." William Heth Diary, DLC. The delegates enclosed Heth's March 21 letter with this of the 23rd and on April 7th the Virginia Council responded by directing Heth to enter again "on the settlement and adjustment of said accounts. . .either in conjunction with the two present Commissioners or with such other Commissioners as may be appointed for that purpose." See Journals of the Virginia Council, 4:226; and Cal. of Va. State Papers, 4:406, 414--;16. For the resolution of the state's claims, see Virginia Delegates to Heth, April 20.

Jeremiah Wadsworth to Mehitable Wadsworth

My dear friend New York March 23. 1788 I am not able to leave New York so soon as I intended---;the ill health of Col Cook prevents. The Children are very well & in good Spirits---;on Monday the last of March I shall leave this place. My love to sisters & Harriet.(1) I am, Your Affectionate Husband, J Wadsworth RC (CtHi: Wadsworth Papers). 1 Wadsworth also wrote to Harriet this day, reporting the change in his plans to return home and requesting that she send him some seeds for a friend. Ibid.

Cyrus Griffin to James Madison

My dear sir N. York 24 March 1788. Before the date of this letter I hope you are gotten safe to Orange, and found all things in a situation the most agreeable. We are still going forward in the same tract of Seven states, of course not a great deal can be done, and indeed not a great deal to do. A prospect of the new Constitution seems to deaden the activity of the human mind as to all other matters; and yet I greatly fear that constitution may never take place; a melancholy Judgment most certainly---;and would to heaven that nothing under the Sun shall be more erroneous! The adjournment of N. Hampshire, the small majority of Massachusets, a certainty of rejection in Rhode Island, the formidable opposition in the state of N. York, the convulsions and Committee meetings in Pennsylvania, and above all the antipathy of Virginia to the system, operating together, I am apprehensive will prevent the noble

Page 25

March 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Portrait of Cyrus Griffin

Page 26

March 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

fabrick from being enacted. The constitution is beautiful in Theory---;I wish the experiment to be made---;in my opinion it would be found a government of sufficient energy only. Neither of the packets have yet arrived, and what has detained the french no one at this place can determine. Not a word from our Ministers abroad. Congress have taken final leave of the Chavalier by a very polite and friendly letter.(1) The Marchioness is recovering rapidly, and the Count in good health; I mention them because they entertain a very exalted [opinion] of you and talk much upon that subject. Daniel Shays and Eli Parsons have petitioned the Legislature of Massachusets for pardon---;and will succeed.(2) The frequent attacks upon the post-office has produced the enclosed performance.(3) The customary papers are sent to you within this cover. I am, my dear Sir, with friendship and Sincerity, your obedient Servant, C Griffin RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 Congress' March 18 letter to the chevalier de La Luzerne was in response to the minister's undated letter transmitting Louis XVI's September 30 letter of recall. Both were read in Congress on February 1 and referred to secretary for foreign affairs John Jay to report. Jay's March 13 report included a response to La Luzerne, adopted the 18th, and answers to two September 30 letters from the French king which were not adopted until June 2. See JCC, 34:24, 30n.3, 93, 194--;96; PCC, item 80, 3:367, item 81, 3:47--;48, 71--;73, item 96, fols. 390, 394--;97, item 190, fol. 187; and Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 1:246--;49. 2 Shays and Parsons had presented their petition to the legislature on March 10 and it was printed on the 15th in Benjamin Russell's Massachusetts Centinel. The General Court did not grant an unconditional pardon, however, until June 25. Marion L. Starkey, A Little Rebellion (New York: A. Knopf, 1955), pp. 248--;50. 3 The enclosure was apparently postmaster general Ebenezer Hazard's defense of his conduct (New York Journal, March 21) in response to publisher Eleazar Oswald's charge (Philadelphia Independent Gazetteer, March 12) that Hazard had precipitously stopped the distribution of antifederalist newspapers through the post office. These and other accusations levelled at Hazard at this time were the result of longstanding attempts to reform the postal service and the dissatisfaction of supporters and opponents of the Constitution with frequent irregularities in mail delivery. After the war Congress began actively to support the transportation of mail by stagecoaches and ordered Hazard on September 7, 1785, to let contracts for the conveyance of the mail by stages from Portsmouth, N.H., to Savannah, Ga., and from New York to Albany, for which see these Letters, 22:578n.4. Hazard, however, had always opposed the use of coaches as too expensive and inefficient and in October 1787 succeeded in wringing from Congress a concession to encourage the use of coaches provided he could employ postriders "as he may judge most expedient and beneficial." See Madison to Eliza House Trist, January 27, 1788, note 4. At the same time, Congress had been struggling since 1782 with postal reform but the committee assigned to draft a new ordinance did not have its report entered on the journals until February 14, 1787, for which see these

Page

Letters

LINK TO ANNALS

, 23:202n.6. A provision in the ordinance that alarmed newspaper publishers was the elimination of free postage for the delivery of newspapers to sub-

Page 27

March 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

scribers, though the ordinance still allowed printers to exchange single copies of newspapers postage free. Already aroused by the new ordinance, printers were further aggrieved when Hazard's new system using postriders north of Philadelphia began to break down as riders refused to carry newspapers, threw them away, or sold them enroute. By March 1788 publishers from every state complained that they had ceased to receive traditional exchanges, and antifederalist printers such as Thomas Greenleaf in New York and Eleazar Oswald in Philadelphia asserted that the new postal arrangements were specifically aimed at them. Opponents of the Constitution further contended that their letters were often lost, stolen or tampered with. (See, for example, Benjamin Contee to Congress, March 17.) For the accusation that "the Postmaster General through his chain of patronage---;postmasters and postriders---;had cut America's vital link of communication" by preventing antifederalist printers and politicians from disseminating their message to the people, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 16:540--;96, especially p. 541. See also Samuel A. Otis to George Thatcher, April 13, note 2. On February 20 a committee appointed on the motion of New Jersey's Jonathan Dayton was directed to propose methods "for preventing irregularities in the transportation of the mails." The committee was expanded on March 27 and further assigned consideration of the ordinance for regulating the post office, but it failed to report. On July 7 a number of committees were appointed to inquire into "the several departments in conformity with the resolution of June 17, 1782," and the committee investigating the post office issued a general report on August 27 reviewing its personnel, conduct of business, receipts, and estimated costs of transportation. On September 30, however, the committee was permitted to take back its report, which was not resubmitted since Congress ceased to conduct business after October 10. See JCC, 34:52n, 116n, 300n.1, 462--;65, 572n.1, 599n.1, 619. Nonetheless, Hazard had by this time begun to fear that he would be replaced or forced to resign. He reported to Jeremy Belknap on September 13 that Paine Wingate, who would soon leave for New Hampshire, "has seen a good deal of manŒvering, and has gone so far as to tell me that he has been sounded about the P.M.G.; but, as he was not more communicative, delicacy prevented my being particular in my enquiries, but you may." Interviewing Wingate when he passed through Boston, Belknap informed Hazard on September 23 that "there has been an attempt in Congress to get you displaced, and W. says that he prevented it. His colleague [Nicholas Gilman] was for it, and, had he agreed with him, there would have been seven States on that side. The States against you are Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, Delaware, and Georgia, and I am uncertain whether Rhode Island or North Carolina; but it originated in Connecticut, and the person pitched upon for your successor, is Jonathan Trumbull. Baldwin, of Georgia, is against you. Your fault is not enough favouring the stages in carrying the mails, and giving indulgence to post-riders." In His October 2 reply, Hazard confessed "I never heard, before you informed me, that my removal had been seriously agitated in Congress; or rather, that any vote had been taken about it. North Carolina must have been the 6th State. A friend has intimated to me that a member from that State wanted the office for himself. I am pretty confident that Rhode Island would have been in my favour." He expressed surprise "that Massachusetts voted as she did, and cannot account for it. For some of the rest I can conjecture the reason." Hazard accused Jonathan Dayton of seeking "revenge" for his brother-in-law, Col. Matthias Ogden, a New Jersey mail contractor against whom Hazard had brought suit. But he agreed with Wingate's assessment that "there will not be a full representation before the new Government takes place. . .so that it is possible I may yet weather out the storm." Writing again on October 14, Hazard issued what he hoped was a corrective: "I am well informed that no vote has been taken on the removal of the P.M.G., but that it is probable his opponents may have been calculating their chance of success, and supposed that 6 States would be with them." See The Belknap Papers, 3 vols. Massachusetts Historical Society Collections, 5th ser., v. 2--;3; 6th ser. v. 4. (Boston: Massachusetts Historical Society, 1877--;91), 2:63--;69. Notwithstanding, Hazard was one of the few Confederation officers not reappointed under the new government, being replaced by Samuel Osgood.

Page 28

March 26, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Charles Thomson to John Cleves Symmes

Sir, Office of Secretary of Congress, March 26. 1788. I have the honor to transmit to you herewith enclosed an Extract from the Journal by which you will see that the United States in Congress Assembled have been pleased to appoint you one of the Judges in and over the territory of the United States north-west of the River Ohio.(1) Your Commission is made out and ready to be delivered. Be pleased to accept my Congratulations on the occasion. I am with much Respect, Sir, Your Most Obedient & Most hum servt, C.T. LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). 1 For the February 19 appointment of Symmes as one of the three judges of the Northwest Territory, in the place of John Armstrong, Jr., who had declined, see JCC, 34:44, 50.

Samuel A. Otis to George Thatcher

Dear Sir New York March 29th 1788 As I have got the name of a scribbler I must gratify my passion by a Line to Chumm,(1) And assure him the chambers look lonesome since his departure; Brother D(2) came in and comforted me an hour last Evening as I should have been quite melancholly. Your Letter I delivered at Mrs Ellsworths, and the other at No 111 Queenstreet. But it seems to me you should have taken it with you in the Coach being far on to Boston. For any body but myself, it was much more proper for a ride than walk. But I forgive you this movement & sett it against the Broo[k]lyne one. I applied to Mr Walker and find Robt Downs prize money over drawn & enclosed are his papers. It is much if I am able to inform you any news in my next; except that Howard writes there is no room to doubt the question in Maryland, I have not a word to communicate in this; My best wishes for yourself & family are no new thing from, Your friend & H Sevt, Sam A. Otis RC (MB: Chamberlain Collection). Addressed: "The Honble. George Thacher Esqr, Biddeford, Massachusetts." 1 Otis and Thatcher had been roommates in New York before the latter returned home March 25. 2 That is, Nathan Dane.

Page 29

March 29, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Paine Wingate to Timothy Pickering

Dear Sir, New York Mar 29. 1788 Mr. Hodgdon who is now in this City informs me that he can frequently transmit letters to you from Philadelphia, and by him I improve this opportunity of writing to you. The distance of your situation from New Hampshire & the difficulty of an intercourse between us has prevented my giving and I suppose of receiving any direct intelligence from you for a long time. But this seperation has not obliterated my remembrance of or lessened my affection for you. It is with particular satisfaction that I sometimes hear of your welfare by our friends at Salem. This pleasure I had in the beginning of Feb. when your brother told me that he had received a letter from you dated the 1st of Janry at which time you was Setting out for your new settlement. Mr. Hodgdon tells me that you have since been down & returned again very lately & that the last intelligence was that your family were all well & that your situation was very agreeable. I rejoyce in every circumstance that contributes to your domestic happiness & extensive usefulness in life, but could wish that you had believed those two objects obtainable somewhere within the circle of your family connections & former friends. Your brother(1) was remarkably well when I was there in Feb. I think he appears to enjoy as good health & spirits as I have known him have for several years. All the other branches of the family were well. Your son came with me from Salem to Boston in a sleigh for the sake of a ride & to see the Bridges &c and returned again the same day with a lad who brot me on. Master Jno. is sensible & after some acquaintance is sufficiently sociable, tho' with strangers rather reserved. He has those qualities which I think will render him, with the advantages of education that he will enjoy, both amiable & useful & in whom a parent will have great satisfaction. Your other children I have not seen, but I dare say they afford you the pleasing hopes of a fond father. I have receivd a letter from my family dated Mar. 17 when they were all well. Polly is married, & I hope & believe to a worthy & agreeable husband. She will live about one mile from me. Sally is a woman grown. George & Jno are two good boys, & Betsey my youngest is about 5 years old who I suppose will finish our complement of children. My wife(2) enjoys uninterrupted health & changes with succession of years as little as almost any body. I shall write to her by the post to day & let her know that I have heard of you by Mr. Hodjdon which will make a letter very welcome to her on your account if not on mine. I have been in New York since Feb. 10 & find my situation as agreeable as I could expect considering that I am very domestic & habituated to an active life. I have nothing very important to

Page 30

March 29, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

communicate to you. The subject which engages the general attention at this time is the New Constitution. What will be the fate of it is yet uncertain, but those who are well wishers to their country & best know the situation we are in, are the most sensible of the necessity of its adoption, and great pains are taken to obtain the end. On the other hand there are powerful opposers to it, who avail themselves of some popular objections & they are too successful with the less knowing part of the country. In New Hampshire when the Convention met, there was a majority prejudiced against the plan. They were chiefly from the interior parte of the state & many of the delegates were instructed to vote against it. The most distinguished Characters were in favor of it & after debating it for sometime there were a few converts made, who did not think themselves at liberty to go against their instructions and therefore obtained an adjournment. There is I think a probabity that it will finally be adopted in New Hampshire, altho considerable danger that it will not. New York is very doubtful but it is not despaired of. Virginia & North Carolina are much in the same situation. Maryland & South Carolina are supposed to be fŒderal. Those two states will decide before the others & if they should agree to adopt there will be but one of the dubtful ones necessary to make up the nine. The important decision upon the subject cannot be known before the last of July, & at any rate I do not see that the new constitution can be got to go as early as Dec. next. Nothing but the hope of a new can I fear keep the old Constitution from dissolution long---;Sed nunquam de Re publica desperandum. The news papers are so filled with lyes that no dependance can be put on any account you receive in them respecting the Constitution. I hope I shall soon have the pleasure of hearing from you by letter, which direct to me in Congress at New York. If you have any letters which you wish at any time to forward to Salem or to any friends Eastward if you will put them under cover to me, I will take the care of them & send them without hazard or expence to the place of destination. If Congress should not adjourn which yet is uncertain, it is likely that I shall remain in this place until Oct. next. I am dear Sir with sentiments of particular esteem & affection your friend & brother, Paine Wingate N.B. I desire my love to Mrs. Pickering. RC (MHi: Pickering Papers). 1 Pickering's brother John, although a man of some local prominence and a Salem representative in the Massachusetts General Court, is not to be confused with John Pickering (1738--;1805) of Portsmouth, N.H., the first federal judge impeached and removed from office in 1804. Cf. Gerard H. Clarfield, Timothy Pickering and the American Revolution (Pittsburgh: University of Pittsburgh Press, 1980), p. 13; and DAB. 2 Wingate had been married to Pickering's sister Eunice since 1765.

Page 31

March 30, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Jeremiah Wadsworth to John Chaloner

Dear Sir New York March 30th 1788 I This morning received your letter by Mr Colt and I never was more surprised.(1) Is it possible you should have applied so large a Sum of Money to your own use and have no part of it ready for us, what am I to think. By the Packet to Sail the next Thursday instead of a large remittance I must send Mr Church a Sketch of the Accounts. My letter in the most possitive terms not to sell our goods on Credit has been disregarded and a large sum is in out standing debts---;and much of it with those Who have no visible property, and every shilling that is collected made use of. It distresses me more than I can express that a Man in whom I placed all my confidence should treat me thus. For God Sake let me know imediately what you have done with the Money and fix on times as early as possible to return it. Tell me the periods at which I may depend on its being remitted to Col Hamilton and do not disappoint me. I am alarmed that your letter does not tell me in particular what your funds are from whence this great Sum is to come. Mr Church has long since been alarmed as is Col Hamilton. I dare not Shew him the Accounts or letter---;till I hear from you again. I have met with so many losses and disappointments that my embarrassments are great but this is a stroke I was totally unprepared for---;and I shall be very uneasy till I have a clear and explicit account from you of the means that are in your power to do us justice. I can hardly persuade my self I read right When I view the great Ballance and that you could not pay one Shilling to Mr Colt---; how can you justify this transaction to yourselfe [to] your friend, or how is it compatible with the character of a Merchant. I will not add but wait impatient[l]y your answer which I wish may be such as will restore you to the place you have ever held in the heart of your injured Friend, Jere Wadsworth RC (PHi: Chaloner & White Collection). FC (CtHi: Wadsworth Papers). 1 Wadsworth also wrote Chaloner the following letter on March 17. "In Consequence of late Letters from Mr Church, I send on Mr Colt to Make a Settlement of our Accounts with you and he will either Sell or Ship the remaining Goods of the Company. I was in hopes to have had it in my Power to come on my self; but find it impossible. I can hear Nothing from MCarty---;neither letters or Account Sales---;is their any thing to be had with You---;my love to Mrs Chaloner & the Children." Chaloner & White Collection, Phi.

Page 32

March 30, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Paine Wingate to Sarah Wingate

My dear Sally New York Mar. 30. 1788. I have just had the pleasure of receiving yours of the 19 instant, enclosed with several letters; As yours is short & spirited, & is the first production of the kind, which I have received from you, I shall immediately return you an answer, & desire you to assure Polly,(1) as well as Mr. Wiggin & the Doctor that I shall acknowledge their favors as soon as possible. I am very glad that you are sensible of your foible which is so obvious to every body else. And I am equally pleased at your sincerity & frankness in owning the truth. This is not the usual characteristic of young ladies. But since you have so candidly confessed your fondness for dress, I will gratify you in your enquiries, so far as my inattention to such trifflings will enable me. I am far from being an enemy to what may be called decency in dress, and I am willing to allow a young Miss to be more attentive to it than an old man. But there is such a thing as excess, against which it is wisdom for both old & young to guard. I hope as you shall by age have more experience & observation that your good sence will lead you to a commendable mediocrity between the extreems of under & over dress. There is another thing which deserves notice on this head & that is the place & company you have to appear in. If I should find some young gentleman in New York, who I should contract with as a husband for you & accordingly send for you here, I should then think it quite consistent to spend a thousand dollars in your equipment. Such is the difference between Stratham & this City that one hundred dollars there, would be more extravagant than the other sum here. There is a delegate from Connecticut who has his daughter with him in this City about 15 years old, whom he introduces in to the best Company & of consequence dresses in the richest manner. I dined with her once. She was dress'd in a white satten. She is not very handsome, & I believe had not been much used to the most genteel company. But her father intends she shall be. In addition to my account of fashions which I wrote to you, I sent a supplement to your mother for Sally Gool if she is at Stratham. This it is likely you will see I don't know what to observe further, only that it is the fashion for young ladies when they are well dressed to be cheerful & very sociable. They never appear bashful tho' they can blush when there is occasion for it. As for the subject of conversation it is no matter how trifling, only let what you say be well expressed. The ladies I think universally crape their hair & are powdered some times. They wear abundance of trumpery over their bosoms, which reaches up to their chins. I have not been to the Assembly yet, where is the perfection of dress. If I should spend a dollar for that use I shall be able to give you a better account. In the mean time let me advise

Page 33

March 31, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

you to cultivate the ornaments of the mind which will afford you the most substantial pleasure. I bid you a very affectionate adieu, P Wingate RC (MH--;H: Wingate Papers). 1 Wingate's correspondence also contains the following "Supplement to Letter dated Ap. 2d. 88," which he wrote to his daughter Polly, Mary Wingate Wiggin. "I shall enclose a couple of little Books. One of them I desire you will present to your daughter which of them she pleases; & the other you will give to my Betsy. I hope that you will make a prudent & discreet mother & that you will be happy in loving & being beloved by her. Tell Polly that the book comes from her Grandpapa as his first mark of paternal notice. I have enclosed some scraps out of a newspaper for George. The Camels I have seen as a curiosity, also the dancing on a rope &c which you will find advertised in the News paper. This sight exceeded the descrip[tion] given. Adieu." Wingate Papers, MH--;H; and Charles E. L. Wingate, Paine Wingate's Letters to His Children (Medford, Mass., 1934), p. 9. Abraham Baldwin to Joseph Clay Dear Sir(1) New York 31st March 1788 Your favour by Capt Burnham with the cask of Indico were duly received. I was much obliged by your very particular information respecting Indian affairs, the greater part of the time we are without any information from Georgia. I have written the Governor constantly, ever since I left the state, and have never received a line, or known whether any of my letters arrived.(2) Our situation with our near neighbours on both sides, has been for some time critical, and a ground of very just uneasiness. The intentions of the majority of congress respecting our Indian affairs, I am convinced, has been very good, merely to adopt a system of measures, in their own nature suited to preserve the peace of the United States. There are some here who are constantly passionate, and provoking on the subject. Our back territory has been considered as a very enviable possession, particularly by the lack-land states. I have assured them, it is want of experience on that subject, that makes them think so. I have seen by the papers that uneasy apprehensions have been entertained of the conduct of the Spaniards. I had several times in free conversation with Mr Gardoqui, who is a very free and friendly man, hinted to him, that I feared, we should loose that respect that we had entertained for their good policy, by some of their late proceedings; he always has denied every such suggestion. A few days since, on the arrival of the spanish packet, he called on me, and said he was very glad to have it in his power to inform me, and he did inform me officially,

Page 34

March 31, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Portrait of Abraham Baldwin

Page 35

March 31, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

that the King had given pointed orders to the Governors of their Provinces, to endeavour to preserve peace between the United States and the Indian nations, and to do nothing to disturb it.(3) I believe we are to find the greatest difficulty among ourselves, to be able to manage our own affairs. I have as little confidence in the manner in which we take our measures, but feel myself greatly encouraged by the prospect that our state politicks will be soon on a different footing. A man who hopes for any happiness in society cannot want for inducements to use all his information and influen[ce] on that occasion. I know your prospects of any good under our old government have long been very small; but may I not hope, that the political horizon is brightening, so that you will think it worth a while to go aboard and help? We have had a congress this winter but a small part of the time; the old simile of money being the sinews, must convince you that we must be in a very paralytic state at present. Maryland convention is to meet the 21st of April.(4) South Carolina & Maryland are counted upon as sure, where to find the ninth, is matter of anxious enquiry. The prospects from the other five are unpromising. There is nothing from abroad worth communicating. I send to Mr Johnson,(5) all the late Newspapers, to which I beg leave to refer you for the political chat from this part of the Union. Please to present my compliments to your family, and also to our worthy friends the Mr Habershams and believe me with great respect and esteem, your obedient humble servant, Abr Baldwin RC (PHi: Dreer Federal Convention). 1 A prosperous Savannah merchant and former deputy paymaster general of the Continental Army in the southern department, Joseph Clay (1741--;1804) had been elected to Congress in 1778 but did not attend. Cf. Bio. Dir. Cong. and DAB. 2 None of Baldwin's letters to former governor George Mathews or newly-elected governor George Handley have been found. 3 See, for example, Gardoqui's February 8 letter to Congress, which was read on the 12th and referred to secretary for foreign affairs John Jay to report . JCC, 34:43nn.3 and 4; and Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 3:263--;64. See also James White to Samuel Johnston, April 21, note 1. 4 Information concerning prospects for the Constitution in Maryland reached Congress in the form of an undated letter to Jeremiah Wadsworth from delegate John Eager Howard who had left New York to attend the state's ratifying convention and who apparently wrote the letter about March 24. "I am happy to inform you that upon my arrival in Maryland I found the prospect of the Constitution being adopted was fully equal to my expectations. The elections will take place in a fortnight [April 7] when we shall be able to decide what will be the conduct of this State. At present, appearances are very flattering of eighteen Counties, not more than four will return members unfriendly. In many Counties not the least opposition will be made---;in three or four there will be contested elections which I count unfavorable, but others think that even in these Counties there will be Majorities on the right side. You need not be under uneasiness on account of us for a Majority is certain, and it is not improbable but we shall be

Page 36

March 31, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

almost unanimous. I wish I could give as favorable accts. of Virginia. We have not yet received such accts. of their elections as to be able to determine what part they will act. We are in doubt, but have great reason to believe that there will not be such an opposition as Mr. A. Lee represents. "I have written to you sev[eral] times about the Post office. Gr[eat] complaints are made and an opinion prevails that there is a combination to prevent a free communication of intelligence which injures our cause. I am informed that some papers respecting the office have been forwarded to me at N. York. If there are any please to open them and make what use you think necessary of them." Wadsworth Papers, CtHi. 5 Undoubtedly James Johnston, publisher of The Gazette of the State of Georgia.

Pierpont Edwards to Jeremiah Wadsworth

Dear Sir, New Haven March 31st 1788. I wrote you on Wednesday last, in which I informed you that I cou'd not go to New-York till the beginning of May:(1) Since that time I have determined to put my going to Congress upon an issue that will certainly exonerate me from blame. I have therefore written to His Excellency---;A Copy of my Letter to him is inclosed(2)---;And if the Public will furnish me with money I will be with you in four days after it comes to hand. I am your friend---; Pierpt Edwards RC (CtHi: Wadsworth Papers). 1 "I agreed to go to Congress in May," Edwards wrote to Wadsworth on March 26, "or, for a few Weeks only, at an earlier period, if my presence, for particular purposes, should be necessary. These particular purposes cannot now be answered by my going. No money can be had of the State at present---;and, to answer your question `will you come on or not'---;I say I will not untill the beginning of May." Ibid. 2 The following copy of this letter to Gov. Samuel Huntington is also in the Wadsworth Papers. "I have received a Letter from Col Wadsworth, & also one from Mr. Mitchell informing me that Col Cook by reason of ill health has been necessitated to leave Congress & return to Connecticut, & that Col Wadsworth must also leave Congress in the course of the present or next month at farthest & counting upon me in pursuance of the arrangement made by the delegates last fall---;in conformity to the recommendation of your Excellency to prepare myself immediately to repair to New York. I am wholly unfurnished with money & learn that it is my duty to apply to your Excellency for orders on the Treasurer to supply me with the needed sum. As I conceive it to be my duty not to suffer our representation at Congress to fail thro my negligence I take the earliest opportunity of making the present communication to your Excellency & to request that I may be furnished with the necessary orders respecting money as nothing but a want of that shall prevent my going immediately. I shall esteem it a favor to have an answer from your Excellency as soon as circumstances will permit."

Page 37

April 2, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Charles Thomson's Memorandum Book

[April 2--;17, 1788] April 2d Delivered to Mr Clarke papers enclosed in Petition of Mary Vance---;petition withdrawn March 27th, 1788 (see rect.).(1) April 4th James M. Varnum Esqr.---;recd. his Commission---;one of the Judges of the Western territory.(2) April 11th Mr Rooney recd a copy of Jacob Cuylers Memorial agreeably to request of Mr Brown---; Member from Virginia(3) ---;see his note filed under B---;private letters. 17th Mr. Otis, Member from Massachusetts---;recd. the plan of the boundary line between Massachusetts & New York---;to be copied for said State---;in the hands of Alexr. Thomson, William Street No. 21. (See rect. in the name of Alexr. Thomson)---;returned July 15th, 1788 by Mr Thomson.(4) MS (DNA: PCC, item 187). In the hand of Roger Alden. A continuation of Thomson's Memorandum Book, March 4--;26, 1788. 1 For the petition of Mary Vance on behalf of the estate of her late son Joseph Curry of New Jersey, and the board of treasury's recommendation that the case be referred to New Jersey for "Official information," see JCC, 32:117n, 34:114--;15. An undated letter to Congress from Vance, read March 15, 1787, is in PCC, item 42, 8:121--;24. Abraham Clark's receipt for the papers returned to her is in PCC Miscellaneous Papers, M332, reel 9, fol. 199. 2 For Varnum's appointment, see Thomson to the Secretary and Judges of the Northwest Territory, November 7, 1787. 3 An April 9 note to Roger Alden from John Brown requesting the delivery of a copy of Cuyler's petition to John Rooney is in PCC, item 55, fol. 117. For Cuyler's petition, see PCC, item 41, 2:354--;57; and JCC, 31:676n, 736--;37, 34:526, 618. 4 Neither this plan nor receipt is in the PCC.

Paine Wingate to John Wendell

Sir New York April 2d. 1788 I have had the honor to receive from you four Letters with the enclosures. I have without delay either delivered or forwarded the letters according to your request. I have received no answer or return from any one excepting a verbal reply from Sir John Temple,(1) who said that he had entrusted all his affairs in New Hampshire to the care of a Mr. Winthrop. I tho't it probable from one of your letters that I might receive something for you & that has induced me to delay my answer

Page 38

April 2, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

the longer. I thank you for the information which you gave me respecting the welfare of my family, and for the complement you are pleasd to pay to Mr. Gilman & me as delegates in Congress. If my Abilities were equal to my wishes & endeavors to be useful I should esteem myself happy. I am much obliged by the particular account you have given me the proceedings of the late convention altho' much disappointed with the issue. The New Hampshire adjournment has made an impression on the minds of the people this way unfavorable to the Constitution beyond what could have been expected. But I hope your expectations will not be disappointed with respect to its adoption at the adjournment. We have at present nothing material that is new. Congress very thin in its representation which is a hindrance to the business on hand. The Conventions that are yet to set will some of them be so late that we cannot have intelligence of their determinations before August; this will be so late that it is probable the necessary arrangements cannot be made so that the new Congress & form of government can take effect as early as December. The general opinion is that the New Constitution will be adopted, & that this under present circumstances is not only very desireable, but necessary to save us from the most perplexing difficulties, if not ruin. I hope that we shall understand our true interest & pursue it; be speedily extricated from all our embarissments, & have peace & happiness. In which wish I dare say that you heartily joyn with me. I have the honor to be with sentiments of respect your most obedient & humble Servant, Paine Wingate [P.S.] Mr. Gilman desires his Compliments. RC (MH--;H: Wingate Papers). 1 For the claim Wendell was pursuing that involved Sir John Temple, see Arthur St. Clair to Wendell, March 27 and July 24, 1787.

Virginia Delegates to Edmund Randolph

Sir New York April 3d. 1788 We have been honour'd with your Excellency's Letters of the 7th and 13th Ulto. The Business therein refered to shall be immediately submitted for the consideration of Congress & shall command our particular Attention. No application from any of the other States to prolong the Period within which they are to adjust their Claims against the United States has as yet been made to Congress; but still we trust that the application on behalf of Virginia for that purpose will not be rejected.(1)

Page 39

April 6, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

We have the honor to be Sir, With great Respect, Your Excellencys Most Hble Servants, Cyrus Griffin J. Brown RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). Written by Brown and signed by Brown and Griffin. 1 Governor Randolph's March 7 letter is not in PCC, but that of the 13th requesting an extension of the June 21st deadline for settling Virginia's Continental accounts, as established by the ordinance of May 7, 1787, was read in Congress on May 5 and referred to the board of treasury to report. Congress had hoped for a speedy settlement of state accounts through the establishment of a general board of three commissioners with final authority to reconcile claims and five district commissioners to collect documents and evidence. William Winder, district commissioner for Virginia and North Carolina, alerted Randolph to the state's need to comply with the ordinance on December 20, 1787, but quickly found Virginia's records to be so fragmentary and poorly organized that he considered nearly all claims undocumented. When the board of treasury reported on May 7 it rejected Randolph's request but directed the district commissioners "to receive from the several States all their Accounts against the Union, under such Forms, as they may judge it adviseable to exhibit. . .should the time limited for their reception not enable the States to class them under the several heads, as stated in the Ordinance." See JCC, 32:262--;66, 34:140n, 145--;46; PCC, item 71, 2:589--;92; and Ferguson, The Power of the Purse, pp. 215--;16. For the delegates' discussion of the board's report and the eventual reversal of this decision, see Virginia Delegates to Randolph, May 8; and Edward Carrington to Randolph, June 9,

Page 19

,

LINK TO ANNALS

and 25.

Nathan Dane to Manasseh Cutler

My Dear Sir: New York, April 6, 1788. I received yours of the 18th ult. I shall readily pay every attention to the subject you mention in my power. Nothing particular has taken place since I wrote you last. We have had no late information of any considerable importance from the Indians. It is rather uncertain as yet how the elections for the State Convention have gone in Virginia, and no conjectures can well be formed how they will be in this State. I see by the papers that the British Ministry have demanded the abolition of the works at Cherbourg. This newspaper information is all I have heard or seen respecting the affair, but if such a demand has been made, I think it must be passed by in silence by the French Court, or that Court must refuse to comply with it. The probable consequence, in my mind, is war. I inclose you a letter from Major Sargent. With sentiments of esteem and friendship, I am, dear sir, your obed't servant, N. Dane.

Page 40

April 6, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

MS not found; reprinted from William P. and Julia P. Cutler, eds., 2 vols. Life, Journals and Correspondence of Rev. Manasseh Cutler, LL.D. (1888; reprint ed., Athens, O.: Ohio University Press, 1987), 1:382.

Leonard Gansevoort to Stephen Van Rensselaer

My Dear Sir(1) New York April 6th. 1788. I am exceedingly sorry to observe that your prospects of the succeeding Election(2) are not more flattering than they appear from your Letter of the 30th Ult. Your Opinion that my presence in the County is indispensably necessary places me in one of the most disagreeable situations that is possible. On the one hand, I could wish to comply with your wish, because I long to see my Family & from a conviction that I could be more useful to promote the good of the Country in taking an Active part in the Election and also from your Opinion which carries with it almost the force of a Law, on the other hand, Congress earnestly wish to retain a sufficient Number of States to transact the ordinary Business, and when you consider the peculiar situation of my Colleagues in the delegation you will perceive that I can be better spared than either of the others except Yates who is not wanted here at all. Mr. Benson cannot attend as well on Account of his private Business as the general Election, and Mr. LHommedieu and myself had some Conversation on the Subject when he returned from Poughkeepsie he assured me that he was very apprehensive of the Issue of the Election in Suffolk unless he could be at Home to concert Measures to procure a federal representation from there to the Convention and thought and indeed insisted hard that I should remain untill after the Election when he would releive me---;add to all this the constant fear of the Gent. in this place that Congress may on some day when the State is not represented revive the Motion for removing farther South. What must I do in this dilemma? will I not incur the just Censure of the State by breaking up the representation in the national Councils? do I not neglect the true Interest of the State by remaining here, when I could render the federal Cause perhaps essential service in our County? your Answers to these Questions will determine my Conduct irreversibly. The first Volume of Publius is published & the Numbers for Albany will go by Peter Schuyler on Wednesday in the Care of Robt. McClallen Esqr. to whom I have caused them to be directed, will it not be well for the Committee to appoint a proper Person to issue them and receive pay for them in behalf of the Printer. The Debates of the Pensylvania Convention as well as the Commissions for your Regiment will go up by the next Stage, Mr. Scot has promised that they should be finished on Wednesday next.

Page 41

April 6, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

I have called three times at Mr. Gaines to deliver your Message respecting the Trees and could not see him, have yesterday left an extract of your Letter at his House, with direction where I could be found, to morrow I expect young Prince in Town and will furnish him with your request, if possible the Trees will go by Schuyler. Your Brother Phil is not yet come to Town. I wish to see him very much. Contrary to all expectation Westchester & Queens it is now thought will elect federal Characters to represent them in Convention, Kings is decidedly well disposed to a Man, and from Suffolk we hear that Floyd & LHommedieu are very active. The federal Cause gains ground fast to the Southward and from Rhode Island we learn that the federalists disatisfied with the Method adopted by their Legislature, instead of polling themselves in favor of the Constitution have remonstrated against the Method, hence all the Votes taken in the different Towns are for its rejection, and tho' it is conceded that a Majority of the Electors in that State are opposed to the plan, yet a very respectable Number composed of the Wealth & abilities in that State are warm Advocates for it. I thank you for the Trouble you have taken to prevail upon Mrs. Gansevoort to come down and am sorry You was not more successful. The Commissions for Thomas Barritt, Dirck Hilton, John Veeder & Jonathan Hilton as Cutters of Staves, Henry J. Bogert as Measurer of Boards, Timber &c. and Jellis Winne as repacker of Beef & Pork, I will send up per M. McClallen, good Use may be made of them as they were severally appointed by our recommendations---;it will be well to let Maus R Van Vranken know that in consequence of his application to me he was recommended and is now actually appointed a Justice of the Peace as I have seen by the Records of the Council. Jonathan Hilton I believe know nothing about it but I considered him as a friend to your Family and an honest & industrious Man & therefore added his Name---;have you taken care to apprize Dd. V Rensselaer, Jacob Fort Junr., Philip Conyne & Thos. Tobias that they are appointed Coroners through the same Channel, this should not be neglected, their Commissions will also go up with the rest---;it may give a Spur to Action. I think it would be well to suggest to Genl. Schuyler the propriety of writing official Letters to the newly appointed Justices, their Commission will go up soon Mr. Scot has promised me that he will attend to it. Mr. Gross will go up soon with an Address from the German Society he is warmly federal and I promise myself much good from his Excursion. I have endeavoured to promote a similar Measure by the St. Andrews Society in this place which consists of near 300 Members of all which Number there is but one Antiman, to wit, Genl. Malcom, our friend James Caldwell has seconded this application to Wm. Maxwell

Page 42

April 6, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

the Vice president and the Society will meet to Morrow for the purpose, they cannot believe that the Scotch in Albany differ so widely from them in sentiment, many of the leading Members of that Body have promised to give their Attendance and promote this necessary Measure, they will at least write to the Scotch in the Upper Counties as well as in Albany. Coll North has assured me that he will go up this Week. I have impressed his Mind with the absolute Necessity of affording all the assistance in his Power. Palmer in Ballston has been written to by Dirck Lefferts per post, but fear his Letter will remain in the post office unless some step is taken to forward it, can't you procure some unsuspected Person to take it up & forward it to him. Hamilton says others have written Palmer on the same Subject. Yours very sincerely &c, Leonard Gansevoort RC (N: Miscellaneous Manuscripts). Addressed: "Stephen Van Rensselaer Esqr., Water Vleit near Albany." 1 Stephen Van Rensselaer (1764--;1839) was the eighth patroon of the vast Rensselaerwyck estate in Albany and Rensselaer Counties, New York. He graduated from Harvard College in 1782, married Gen. Philip Schuyler's daughter Margaret in 1783, and was elected as a Federalist to the New York Assembly, 1789--;90, to the state Senate, 1791--;95, and as lieutenant-governor, 1795--;1801. DAB. 2 That is, Federalist "prospects" in the approaching Albany County election for delegates to New York's ratifying convention.

Samuel A. Otis to George Thatcher

Dear Sir [April 6? 1788](1) In making up my weekly packet should I omit to direct a Letter to you it might be attributed to a cause very far from reality, a want of esteem & attention, Not with any credit of saying anything new, or communicating entertainment, but merely to cover a letter & a New York paper & evince my wish by every oppoy to cultivate a correspondence on any side very agreeable is the design of this my No 2. I have a wish to hear from you, to know what communications you made to the House, How you get along---;What the temper of my Countrymen is---;Who is to be in & who out---;We are here in the old Style, Six States only. Reed & Wadsworth gone home about the time or since your departure; yet it will not do to abdicate the Government. I have reason to fear no adoption will take place this year, and I am in formed the people of Massachusetts are very uneasy, That R I have & N Hampshire certainly will reject. At this moment all hands are parliamenteering. By the time you wish the result may be known. Detail every circumstance, For Trifles are important in connexion with our Country.

Page 43

April 7, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Your friend & Hum Sert, Sam A Otis(2) [P.S.] Present me to friend Hill, Nason, Coney, Wiggery & all my friends federal & Anti. MS not found; reprinted from Historical Magazine, 2d ser. 6 (December 1869): 353. 1 Thatcher had returned home March 25 and Otis wrote to him Saturday March 29. This is his second "weekly" letter to Thatcher, to whom he also wrote on Sunday April 13, and it was undoubtedly written on April 5 or 6. It has been placed here at the latter date because it may have gone with the same post that carried Nathan Dane's April 6 letter to Manasseh Cutler. 2 Otis also wrote the following brief letter to George Morgan the following day. "Soon after I had the pleasure of a conversation with you upon the subject of husbandry I met with the enclosed upon raising Carrots, Which I think will amuse you. "As the author is a very particular friend, & [I] am upon a footing of intimacy, with several of our very best farmers, should you furnish me with any communications in return, it would oblige." Logan-Dickinson Collection, PPL. Morgan forwarded this letter to John Dickinson at Wilmington, Del., to whom he explained that Otis' enclosure was "On the Culture of Carrots, by Tristam Dalton."

Cyrus Griffin to James Madison

My dear Sir N.Y. April 7th [1788] Colonel Wadsworth has thought proper to leave us---;and his state being unrepresented we are again reduced to six only---;and probably may continue in that situation a week or two longer. The N. York delegates do not attend---;it seems to me the period is fully arrived to close the Confederation. As no french packet has yet appeared or been heared of the minister is inclined to think that a prohibition was made to their sailing during the winter months---;or perhaps some change in that department may have occasioned it. Rhode Island have in fact rejected the constitution---;so that only eight states can have adopted the system before the Session of Virginia. We all much rejoiced to hear of your election, especially as your being present, we are told, was absolutely necessary to counter- act some unwarrantable proceedings. I do not know whether you are acquainted with a Mr Paradise from London who came to Virginia in October last with the strongest recommendations as a man of understanding and a good American---; he is now in this City and will embark for Paris in the first french packet---;if you have any confidential letters to Mr. Jefferson I am sure he will take the best charge of them---;he is very intimate with that Minister and will go immediately to his house.

Page 44

April 7, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

At some convenient hour I hope you will give me your opinion upon the prospect of the new-Constitution---;the Elections now finished &c. News papers enclosed. I am, my dear Sir, with the highest respect & friendship, your obedient Servant, C Griffin RC (DLC: Madison Papers).

John Brown to James Madison

Dear Sir New York April 9th. 1788 I herewith inclose two Letters which were this Morning brought for you to our Lodgings---;also the News Papers of this day which contain all intelligence in circulation here worthy your Notice. The French Packett arrived a day or two ago (being the first since you left us). I hear she has brought some public Dispatches but am not yet inform'd of their Contents.(1) Nine States have not appeard on the floor of Congress since you left N. York which has prevented any further Consideration of the Kentucky Address.(2) No Report has been made as yet upon the remonstrance of Virginia relative to Illinois Accounts(3)---;indeed scarce any thing has been done---;for ten days past we have not made a Congress being reduced to six States. We have had the pleasure to be inform'd of Your Election for the ensuing Convention---;from the returns which I have seen my hopes are somewhat revived---;should the Back Country be in favor success I think is certain. RC (DLC: Madison Papers). In the hand of John Brown, signature clipped. 1 For the foreign dispatches received at this time but not read in Congress until a quorum was reached on May 2, see JCC, 34:128--;31. 2 See Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson, November 10, 1787, note 3. 3 See James Madison to Edmund Randolph, March 3, note.

John Brown to James Breckinridge

Dear Breckinridge New York April 11th. 1788 I this day recd. your's of the 1st Instant & find from your Statement that I am two Letters in arear in my Correspondence with you---;my memory does not enable me to correct the error but am fully of opinion that I am intitled to larger Credits than you have given me---;however I shall not contend about it for I assure you that the pleasure I take in writing to you is only exceeded by that of perusing your's in return, the contents of which are ever to me both amusing & interest-

Page 45

April 11, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

ing. I am really sorry that Brother James did not receive my letter which you make mention of---;it contained a Memm. of many thing[s for] him to transact for me when on his way out to K[entucky]. I wrote you some time past to forward it to him in cas[e it did] not arrive before he left Wms Burg---;but fear some miscarriage has taken place---;should he not receive it before he leaves Rukbridge I doubt I shall have to return that Way. The Intelligence from Frankland is rather extraordinary. I am well pleased to hear that old Tipton kept the field---;he has still proved Victorious. I once had the pleasure to see him beat his Excy. (cum pugnibus) untill Blood & outcrys testifyed that he had enough of it---; his Sons also Vanquished Seviere's---;but I did not expect that any would be found such fools as to risk their lives on behalf of either. However I am much deceived if any suffer in the contest except such as deserve a more ignominious death.(1) There is not any News in circulation here worthy your Notice---;the French & English Packets arrived a day [or two] ago. By them we are inform'd that Peace prevails in Europe except between Russia & the Turks. Nothing further has been done in Congress relative to the Kentucky Address since I wrote you last---;I am still sanguine in my expectations but fear that a determination will not be had as soon as I supposed---;not having a full Representation of the States this may probably induce me to postpone the time intended for my return as I think it may be prudent to wait untill that Business so important to our Western Country shall be finally settled. The Governor & Judges of the Territory NW. of the Ohio have set out from this for that Country with a number of Settlers---;they expect in the [Spring] of the next Year to settle 1000 families from [the eas]tern States on the Ohio---;this will be a great [acqu]isition both to the Natural & Political Strength of our New Country. Contracts have already been entered into by different Companys with the Board of Treasury for Six or Seven Millions of Acres of Land NW. of the Ohio at a Dollar public Securities per Acre, no small deduction from our public Debt. I enjoy good Health & much happiness & can assure that I am with esteem, Yr mo. Affe. & Hble Servt., J Brown RC (ViU: Breckinridge Papers in the collections of the Albemarle County Historical Society). 1 For the longstanding hostility between Col. John Tipton, commander of the North Carolina militia in Washington County, N.C., and John Sevier, governor of the proposed state of Franklin, and the February skirmish in Jonesborough between forces under their control, see DAB (q.v., Sevier and Tipton); and Samuel C. Williams, History of the Lost State of Franklin, rev. ed. (New York: Press of the Pioneers, 1933), pp. 108--;10, 198--;209.

Page 46

April 11, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Leonard Gansevoort to Stephen Van Rensselaer

Dear Stephen, New York April 11. 1788. I send you per Capt. Trotten the Trees you wrote for as per Account inclosed. You will likewise receive two packages of the federalist one for Montgomery directed to your Care the other containing fifty Numbers predicated upon the Albany subscription which is not to be found. Coll Hamilton says he does not recollect having received it from Genl. Schuyler one of the Numbers of Publius please to send John Younglove Esqr. whom I have written and informed him that you would forward him one of them which I had subscribed for him---; my Letter to him and some Commissions for his Regiment have taken the Liberty to address to your Care. The Commissions for your Regiment you will also receive, the Secretary's Account for them lies inclosed for which have given him my Note. Six other Commissions under the great Seal and which I mentioned in my last Letter you will find among the Cargo, which please to have delivered to my Friend Leonard or some other Person, to Issue and receive the fees indorsed let the Commissions be retained till the Fee is paid, as I have made myself responsible for the Fees or a return of the Commission. The Debates of the Pensylvania Convention I have had bound in Calf skin for you as also one Number of Publius when the 2d Volumes are published one of each will be bound in like Manner & forwarded. I send you the Papers of today and as I have many Letters to write---;Adieu, Yours sincerely &c. Leonard Gansevoort RC (NHi: Miscellaneous Manuscripts, Gansevoort).

Charles Thomson to Arthur St. Clair

Dear Sir, New York April 11. 1788 Upon my arrival here I found a letter from Mr Etwein enclosing one for you which I forward herewith.(1) He informs me that the letter to you is from the Agents for the Missions of the United brethren, in behalf of the remains of the Christian Indians who were driven from Muskingum.(2) Such is my Confidence in your humanity that I am sure they will not plead in vain. I beg leave to submit to your consideration how far it may [be] proper to quiet the minds of the Delaware in Respect to the mournful Slaughter of their friends & relations on the Muskingum & to remove from their thoughts every idea of its being a

Page 47

April 12, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

measure of Government & whether it might not be well, in case they bring forward a complaint on this Account, to inform them how much the act was disapproved of by Congress and what pain it gave them that the Nation, who were at war with us should have been the cause or given pretext for the detested deed, by opening a war path through the towns of those innocent people & previously removing them to Sandusky. I hoped to have had the pleasure of seeing you in Philadelphia, but when I called I found you were gone to visit your family. I heartily wish you success in your negotiations, & happiness in the administration of your government, being with sincere respect, Dear Sir, Your most obedt & Most humble Servt FC (DLC: Thomson Papers). In the hand of Charles Thomson. Addressed: "To Govr St Clair." 1 Bishop John Ettwein's March 26 letter to Thomson is in the Thomson Papers, DLC. The enclosed letter from Ettwein to St. Clair contained a plea for the Christian Indians of the Ohio territory, who were generally regarded with suspicion by other western Indians who were about to hold a treaty with St. Clair. 2 For the efforts made by Congress to compensate these Delaware Indians for the depredations committed by American frontier militia against them, see Thomson to John Ettwin, August 26, 1786, and August 15, 1787. See also these Letters, 18:448--;49, 21:468 ,

Page 496

--;97

LINK TO ANNALS

. For a subsequent memorial from Ettwein of August 29 concerning lands reserved "for the Remnant of the suffering Christian Indians and their Descendants," and Congress' September 3 order to the geographer of the United States to proceed with the survey of these lands, see Carter, Territorial Papers, 2:147--;48, 153--;55.

Paine Wingate to Samuel Lane

Dear Sir,(1) New York April 12th. 1788. I received your favor of March 17th and was much gratifyed with your particular information respecting the Convention, and your relation of sundry other historical events. Your account was the most minute & authentic, which I had received at so early a date, concerning the debates & decisions of the Convention. Tho' I was disappointed & sorry for the event, yet was glad to have the true state of the facts. I suppose as the Delegates then viewed the matter, it was fortunate that the issue was no worse. But the ill impression on the minds of people by the adjournment is more extensive & mischievous than you would imagine. It is complained of as far as Virginia, & believed that if New Hampshire had adopted, there would not have been one dissenting state. Whereas there is now some danger that the whole plan will miscarry. I say some danger, for Virginia & New York are I suppose nearly divided, and that from selfish views, & their influence is considerable over other states. But upon the whole the probab[il]ity is in favor of its being adopted. You know my opinion of the necessity & importance of this, for the safety & welfare of the country under our present circumstances. I shall trouble you no more on this subject. Congress have had application made to them from Kentucky, to be made an independent state, This is a large Tract of Country on the westward part of Virginia. It is situated between the Allegany Mountains & the river Ohio, on the East of that river. These mountains lie in a chain from North to South & are impassable except in two places. It is six hundred miles from the center of this Country, to the seat of government in Virginia, And cannot be travelled in less than 21 days, & that with great peril in fording or rafting over the rivers, & climing over the rocks & mountains, where there is no road, & never can be inhabitted for the distance of 5 days journey. Notwithstanding those difficulties, so tempting is the soil that there are said to be not less than 60 thousand souls settled there already. There is a member in Congress from that Country,(2) a Clergymans son, who gave me this account. He says that the winters are so mild, that the cattle in the spring will be as fat as at any time, without the trouble of feeding them. That it is a very hea[l]thy climate. That there are a number of salt springs where the people can boil the water & make salt as we do out of sea water. It is only crossing over the river & there is the western country where the Ohio company & others are about to make their settlements. It is said that where the Ohio emptieth itself into the Mississippi so flat is the country & such floods come down in the spring season, that there is a space of forty miles distance laid under water. Which forms the appearance of a sea, out of which a forest of trees rises. The vast country north west of the Ohio was ceeded by Virginia to the united states upon condition that they should be reimbursed for their expences in defending of it during the late war. This Congress agreed to & commissioners were appointed by mutual consent to ascertain the sum. The commissioners have not yet reported, & cannot easily agree either two of them. One supposes that 60 Thousd. pounds LM would be enô, another 150 Thousd pounds & the other would give them 220 Thousd pounds for their expences. This would be a dear purchase of that Country to the united states. I intended to have given you some account of the City of New York in this letter, but have dwelt so long on the New Constitution, & the western country, that I find I shall not have room. Boston is not more than two thirds as large as this City in buildings & numbers, and I suppose are much the same in proportion of commerse & wea[l]th. The continual increase is very great, & I think its situation is very favorable to its being the center of business & wealth in the union. As for news I will enclose a paper to give you that. We have nothing remarkable in Congress. I shall be glad to hear from you when it is convenient. I cannot take much pains in writing, having considerable of it to do. If you can read

Page 49

April 13, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

it & find any amusement there from my end is answered, especially if you will consider it as a token of that esteem and friendship with which I am yours &c, Paine Wingate P.S. If I should not write by this post to my family please let them know that I am well & desire my affectionate regard to all friends. RC (MH--;H: Wingate Papers). 1 Samuel Lane, a New Hampshire farmer, tanner, and shoemaker, and a deacon of the Stratham Congregational Church, had long been a neighbor of Wingate. Charles E. L. Wingate, Life and Letters of Paine Wingate, 2 vols. (Medford, Mass., Mercury Printing Co., 1930), 1:112, 165, 192, 2:355. 2 That is, John Brown.

Samuel A. Otis to George Thatcher

Dear Sir New York 13th April 1788 Altho I can only enclose you a barren paper I cannot suffer the post to go without directing to you. The No of Gentlemen present has hardly been sufficient since your absence to affect the smallest business; of course am unable to give friend Gerrey such an answer upon the extension of posts as he wishes, but in answer to his, have written him upon the Subject.(1) I think Hazzard is in a bad box. The fŒderalists frown upon him for being anti. The opposers of fŒderalism charge him hard with stoping the papers, & "muzzling the process" to facilitate the purposes of despotism.(2) I hope they will not oust him, but a little shaking will put him right. The officers of Congress will receive no injury by shaking. The parties are hard at it here, and in Virginia. Tis said Clinton will be candidate for the City, & will carry it for Ulster County. Mrs P enquires frequently after you, and Mr D is so studious he seldom times his muscles to a smile, We miss you at meal times, which if ever is a season for hilarity. My Compliments to all friends Mr Hill, Nason &c, being fellow Laborers, particularly, from, Your friend & H. Sert, Sam A Otis Sunday Evening. Not expecting amongst so many acts of friendship from Dear Chumm, a letter from Boston, altho I expected one dated from Biddeford soon after you got home, I cannot seal, without thanking you for yours of 6th. I am particul[ar]ly obliged for your attention to my dear family and as I always telled you, you are better than your principles, so I have no reason to suppose you telled Mrs O any stories abot me, to my prejudice---;For am sure if you had, I should have heard of them. Whether the Ladies are fond of a fatt man have not particularly enquired, but as you coupled "fatt & handsome," they may

Page 50

April 13, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

pass very well; for one is true to my sorrow, & the other, if it is one, tis a white one, And a casuistical friend says, those which injure nobody are not charged. Your Ghost haunted me in your absence But having advanced the five dollars & got Ludlows rect, I conclude he is laid. I am surprized at the Governors petulence, precision, or whatever you please to denominate it. We had written him several Letters, and one I think, at the same time or very near it. We are by Constitution the officers not of the Governor, but of the Legislature, & viewing the thing strictly not accountable to him; However I have no objection to directing to him, but as I know Letters have been frequently directed as ours was to the Legislature, It lay in my mind as a thing of course, in recess, to write the Supreme Ex[ecu]tive, in sessions to the Legislature. I had no design to offend. You remember we proposed to the Legislature to get a copy of the plan, & they resolved accordingly, but the Govr would not sign it; alledging as a reason "that we had directed our Letter to the Legislature, not to him?" Great men have more resentments & mortifications than little ones, or feel them more in prosperity. I am sure I should not have resented so trivial a deviation from etiquette if indeed it was a deviation. But refering him to John Rogers advice to his chilldren, which may apply to political, as well as natural death, I leave him with contemplations upon mortality, for young chilldren to[o] may die And so may he & I When I told brother D "you loved him" he smiled, but when I hinted some new objections, against the New System, he was quite risible; Decended from the hights of philosophy & speculation, and was for half an hour, meer mortal. I confess I think what old Corran said of you was true "a man of pretty parts," But any other Irishman would say, by my Showl, & by St Patrick, which is more, if you can find an additional objection, you are a Genius indeed! The account of your having been to meeting twice, who best of all ---;---;---; Altho in any other man should suppose there was a little leaven of hypocricy in it---;What? Stay in NY all winter, where good Mr B, & good Dr P, those great apostles of the Gentiles enlighten the world, without going to meeting, Kirk, or Church, Yet the moment you get to NE go twice a day. But I suppose you are of the opinion of a great politician deceased, that it was sure fighting at the head of the black Regiment. Upon the whole you had better not have write me for your name sake, You know my infirmity, the cacoethes scribendi, And had you exercised usual prudence you would not have been in such a scrape; For I shall run you down, tire you out, and make you regret ever exposing yourself to such a long winded Scribbler. I must finish the Sheet.

Page 51

April 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Congress have never been in session since your departure, and there are only six States who will attend: NY have indeed a representation in Town but one of the members is so engaged in private business he cannot attend. You did not mention a word about approaching election. There are several News papers arived in your absence which I shall preserve until we meet that you may complete your folios. Our family are to pack up in a week or two when the annual uproar begins. We have got a very excellent house in Q Street and in a Street much more clean & healthy. I suppose you intend returning to your old quarters again for altho it is at a distance Mother calculates for you. The old influence is exerting to get to Philada but presume it will hardly obtain. Mr Prices has got Madam there and I suspect she is averse from any farther advances East. But it must be done. I have no violent attachment for this place but at any rate tis more healthy than Pensilvania. Adieu my dear Sir & believe me very sincerely yours, Sam A Otis RC (PHi: Dreer Members of Congress Collection). 1 Otis' letter to Elbridge Gerry has not been found. For postmaster general Ebenezer Hazard's March 4 report supporting a petition for the extension of the posts "Eastward of Portland. . .[to] Pownalborough," see JCC, 34:81--;82. For the May 20 attempt of Otis and Nathan Dane to obtain congressional adoption of Hazard's recommendation, which was rejected by a vote of 7 to 1, see ibid., pp. 161--;62, and Otis to Thatcher, May 25. 2 For discussion of the antifederalist charge that Hazard, "through his chain of patronage---;postmasters and postriders," was responsible for a breakdown of the mails that prevented opponents of the new Constitution from disseminating their message to the people, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 16:540--;42. See also Cyrus Griffin to James Madison, March 24, note 3.

Cyrus Griffin to Thomas FitzSimons

My dear Sir N. York. April 14th. [1788] At present I discover no probability that Congress will adjourn to Philadel---;the southren states not being fully represented---;and as my family, when seperate from me are very expensive, money difficult to be gotten, and their situation in a boarding house not the most agreeable, I think they had better conclude and come to this place, to set out about the last day of April in order to reach N. York, on the first Friday or Saturday in May. The horses will remain in Bristol, fed upon grain &c untill about the 28th but I wished to know if any Gentleman was coming this way and would take charge of the family some distance upon the road. I fear Mr. Obrien cannot wait so long---; and

Page 52

April 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

whether decent postilions could be hired for the Journey. As to the woman I shall write lady C.(1) The chariot would be too much crouded & she not wanting upon the Journey. But, my dear sir, how does the money hold forth---;and if not, can you negotiate a Bill upon me. Be so kind to answer this letter and I will trouble you upon the subject with only one more letter. By the last vessels from Europe we are told that the Netherlands are still in great confusion---;that Russia is carrying on the war against the Turks with uncommon vigor, and perhaps will be powerfully assisted by the Emperor---;that in all probability the horrid flame may be extended much farther---;and that in Truth the peace between France and England will not continue any considerable length of time---;and say our ministers the conduct of the united states should be a system of neutrality. Be so good to send the enclosed letter; and with my affect respects to your kind lady believe me with the utmost sincerity & regard Your most obedient servant, C Griffin RC (MH--;H: bMS Am 1649.5). 1 Although "the woman" referred to has not been identified, "Lady C" was Griffin's wife, Lady Christina Stuart, daughter of the 6th earl of Traquair.

Cyrus Griffin to Samuel Johnston

Dear Sir New York. April. 14th. 1788. The Congratulations of so kind a friend I receive with the utmost pleasure. Accept my thankfull acknowledgements for your Excellencies very Obliging Letter and very polite Attention.(1) By the last Vessels from Europe we are told that the Netherlands are Still in Great Confusion---;that Russia is Carrying on the war against the Turks with uncommon Vigour, and perhaps will be powerfully assisted by the Emperor---;that in all probability the horrid flame may be extended much further---;and that in truth the Peace between France & England will not continue any considerable time.(2) This being the Appearance of things abroad, I hope the United States at home will adopt a Constitution beautifull in theory and which will be found a Government of Safety, and of Energy. I have the honour to be Dear Sir, with profound Esteem & regard, Your Excellencys most Obedient servant, Cyrus Griffin Tr (Nc--;Ar: Governors' Letterbooks). 1 Johnston's letter is not in the PCC or N. C. State Records. 2 See the following entry, note 4.

Page 53

April 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Cyrus Griffin to James Madison

My dear sir N.Y. April 14th. [1788] The french packet has at length arrived---;but after a passage so long nothing new and material could be expected. Mr Jefferson writes a very short letter, but not a wored of Intelligence(1) ---;perhaps the enclosed to you may contain somewhat more satisfactory.(2) He has also sent a letter to your attention for Ben. Lewis near Richmond, and George Clymer of Philadelphia---;five french pamphlets for Mr Bannister of Virginia, and a small package for yourself containing something valuable perhaps; what shall be done with them be kind enough to direct. The Captain of a vessel from some port of france has just told me of three or four large boxes on board of him, for you, George Wythe, and other gentlemen, directed to your care.(3) I shall have them brought to my house, and shall pay the freight, port duties &c. Give directions about those also. Mr Adams has written a letter by the british packet of December 16th.(4) He is preparing to leave England and seems to regret that Colo Smith could not be honored with some appointment from Congress---;he tells us that the Netherlands are still in great confusion---;that the Russians are carrying on the war against the Turks with great vigor, and perhaps will soon be assisted by the Emperor---;and that in all probability the war may extend a good deal farther, that the peace between France and Britain may not continue a long time, & that our essential business will be neutrality. He approves highly the proposed Constitution. Publius has not appeared since my last enclosure. I thank you for the favor of March 25th.(5) We all rejoice greatly at your election; indeed, my dear sir, we consider you as the main pillar of the business on the right side; but from the elections hitherto sent to us there is certainly a majority against the system, but the western members will preponderate the scale. In point of virtues and real abilities the federal members are much superior. Henry is weighty and powerful but too interested---;Mason too passionate---;the Governor by nature timid and undecided---;and Grayson too blustering. Brown begs his best respects to you---;nothing yet done with Kentucky, or the Illi. matters.(6) Accept the enclosed paper---;and consider me with real friendship &c, Cyrus Griffin RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 Apparently Jefferson's three-page letter to John Jay of February 5, although Griffin's description of it is odd, for which see Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:563--;65. 2 For this February 6 letter to Madison, see ibid., pp. 568--;70; and Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:22--;23.

Page 54

April 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

3 For these "large boxes," see ibid., 10:357n.2. 4 John Adams' letter is in PCC, item 84, 6:591--;94; and Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 2:824--;26. 5 Not found. 6 For which see John Brown to Madison, April 9, notes 2 and 3.

Charles Pettit to Benjamin Franklin

Sir, Philadelphia 14th. April 1788 After my Return from New York in May last, I presented an Account to the Comptroller General in order to obtain a Warrant from Council for a few Weeks Pay as a Member in Congress. Considering it as a Business of course I neglected farther Application for some Time, but was at length told that Doubts had arisen in Council whether I was intitled to the Pay stated in the Account or not. These Doubts seem to have arisen on one or other of the two following suppositions. 1st. That the Assembly, by the Election of Genl. Armstrong, intended to supercede my Appointment, or 2dly. That the Time limited by the Constitution for my Continuance, was expired before I gave the Attendance for which I have claimed Pay. As to the first, I am far from questioning the Right of the Assembly to supercede any one of their Delegates whenever they think proper: But having never received any Intimations of their Disapprobation of my Conduct as a Delegate, I cannot suppose they intended to brand me with so unusual a Mark of Displeasure. As to the second---;The fŒderal Constitution limits the Service of Members to three Years. It was for some Time doubted whether the three Years should be computed from the Time of their respective Appointments, or the Time of taking their Seats in Congress; but the Words being that "no Person shall be capable of being a Delegate for more than three Years in any Term of six Years," the former Construction has prevailed. The Words of Limitation in the Constitution of Pennsylvania are "No Man shall sit in Congress longer than two Years successively." Hence it has been generally understood that the two Years, so far as this Limitation applies, commence at the Time a Delegate takes his Seat in Congress, and this Construction has prevailed in Practice.(1) Those who best know me will do me the Justice to believe that altho' I was duly sensible of the Honor conferred upon me by the Appointment, I was far from soliciting it, and that I should have been equally far from obtruding my Services in this last Period of Attendance if I could have supposed they would have been either deemed unacceptable or founded on doubtful Authority. I therefore take the Liberty of stating to Your Excellency and the honble. the

Page 55

April 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Supreme Executive Council my View of the Subject at the Time of the Transaction. In April 1785 The Legislature did me the Honor to elect me a Delegate. Being a Member of the House at the Time, I had some Doubts, in point of Delicacy of accepting the Appointment, and had actually refused at a former Session to permit my Name to remain in the List of Nominations; but it was again urged so warmly that I did not absolutely refuse, neither did I announce an Acceptance till some Time after the Session ended. In May I received the Credentials of my Appoinmtment, and on the 27th of that Month I presented them and took a Seat in Congress. In the November Session following I was again appointed for the ensuing Year. In November 1786 I received a third Appointment. As the Constitutional Limitation would admit but a few Months Continuance under this Appointment, it was to me both unexpected & undesired; but being at New York at the Time, and considering it as an honorable Testimony of Approbation which demanded my Gratitude, I accepted and continued to act under it till the Arrival of a sufficient Number of my honorable Colleagues enabled me to retire for some Time without leaving the States unrepresented. This had so seldom happened before, that I felt the strong Occasion to avail myself of the Relief, and remained absent from Congress till the beginning of April 1787, during which Time so many States were unrepresented that little Progress was made in Business. Considering that the Time limited by the Constitution for my Continuance in the Delegation would expire on the 26th of May, I began to decline the Thought of returning to that Duty; but there were then but two Delegates from this State at New York, one of whom was by his Station precluded from the ordinary Duties of a Member,(2) and the other having signified to me his Desire to be relieved by a particular Day at which he must withdraw himself for a Time: recollecting moreover that some Matters of Business were likely to be resumed in Congress which my honorable Colleagues had had less Opportunity of investigating than myself, I thought it my Duty to give my Attendance tho' it should be but for a few Weeks. On the Day of my Arrival in Congress, General Irvine, who had been impatiently waiting for a Relief, departed. I had heard that General Armstrong was elected & supposed that the Intention was to guard against a Vacancy when my Time should be expired, but had no Reason to suppose it was designed to affect my Continuance during that Time, nor did I receive any Notification of such Election otherwise than from common Report, neither did I know till sometime after I went to Congress that the Gentleman elected had determined to accept the Appointment. On his Arrival at New York sometime afterwards, I obtained a Sight of his Credentials and consulted with him & the President of Congress on the Occasion, intending to retire immediately if I should discern the least Intimation that such had been the Design of the Legislature;

Page 56

April 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

but nothing of the Kind appearing, I continued my Attendance in Congress till about the 18th or 20th of May when I withdrew, supposing my Time of Service to be within a few Days of expiring by the Limitation. I have taken the Liberty to ask the Attention of Your Excellency and the honble. Council to these Particulars not so much with a View to the Sum I have claimed, however desirable it may be to me, as in order to remove the Appearance of Censure which a Refusal of it would seem to imply, and which I am not conscious of having deserved.(3) I have the honor to be, with gre[a]t Respect, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant, Cha. Pettit RC (PHarH: RG 27). Addressed: "His Excellency The President of the Sup. Ex. Council." 1 For which see JCC, 19:215, 26:102--;3, 156--;60, 27:377--;79, 385--;86, 29:682--;84. 2 That is, William Irvine and Arthur St. Clair. The latter was also the president of Congress at that time. 3 For the Pennsylvania Council's response to Pettit's appeal, which was to order the payment of "one hundred and six pounds one shilling, being for his services as a member of Congress from the fifth of April to the nineteenth of May, 1787," see Pa. Council Minutes, 15:435.

Thomas Tudor Tucker to St. George Tucker

New York Apl. 17th. 1788. I am now, my dear St George, at liberty to write to you on a Subject which for some time past has given me much Disturbance & Perplexity of Mind. For Heaven's sake, what do you make of the Letters of our dear Nl.(1) In September last I received a long one from him containing such Matter as fill'd me with Astonishment & Anxiety. Agitated betwixt Wonder & Uneasiness I scann'd it as well as my Understanding wou'd enable me & found a perfect Connexion of Ideas throughout the whole, which gave me some Relief. But as he had been uncertain whether his Letter wou'd find me alive or not, he avoided entering into Explanations & left me totally in the Dark with respect to the Sources of his extraordinary Information. He concluded with desiring Me to think of what he had written but to communicate it to no one. Thus was I deprived of the Liberty of making any Inquiry either of your self or any of the rest of our Friends, for I knew not whether he had mention'd it to any. I attended to every Expression contain'd in my Letters from Bermuda, to endeavour to find out whether or not they were under the same Uneasiness, but nothing occurr'd that afforded me any Light on the Subject. In this State of anxious Uncertainty, I wrote to him in the most pressing Terms to releive me from my Suspence by writing to me immediately the fullest Explanation he

Page 57

April 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Portrait of Thomas Tudor Tucker

Page 58

April 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

felt himself at liberty to give of these wonderful Discoveries, with the Source from whence they were derived. But I cou'd not venture to express a Doubt of the reality of every thing he asserted. In all my sober Moments I acknowledge the Superintendance of a Divine Power, & suppose that he acts by general Laws contrived to effect the Happiness of all sentient Beings. How far these general Laws may in the Moral as in the physical World produce PhŒnomena that to our Understandings seem irregular & not resulting from the general principle, & therefore often term'd miraculous, I am not qualified to determine. A general propensity to Religion in Mankind, I have consider'd as Evidence of the Deity's Existence. The Tenets of all the different Sects appear to me to abound with Absurdities, as far as I have Knowledge of them. Not because I cannot explain every thing, but because many things seem to be contradictory to that Reason which has been given by God for our Guide. He cou'd not give us Reason & then take pains (if I may so express myself) to confound it's Operation. June 13th. I know not how I have been prevented from continuing the Subject. I was going to add many other Observations, but shall rather proceed to Facts. I reced a very long Letter from N. in Answer, with a full Account of what had happen'd to him, & accompanied with several of Swedenborg's Books which I have not been able yet to read with Attention. I find he has sent them also to you & to our Friends in Bermuda. Our dear Sister B. sent them also to me by Mr. D. Tucker, without many remarks upon them, but N. says she reads them with Intelligence & Conviction. He is impatient to hear from you, & is also so earnest with me that I am perfectly at a loss how to write to him. Pray, help me out, if you can. Perhaps you have read those Books, & can form a better Judgment of them than I can. I shou'd be glad to have your Sentiments as fully as possible upon this very extraordinary Change. I must confess I was for some time even afraid to enquire about him, but am now happy to find that he goes on with his Business, & with rather better Prospects than formerly. Heaven bless you, my dear St. George. Yrs. most truly & sincerely, Thos. Tud. Tucker RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Papers). 1 That is, their brother Nathaniel, a Charleston physician, who was exploring the theological writings of Emanuel Swedenborg (1688--;1772), a proponent of a "new Christianity" of gradual redemption through the personal regulation of spiritual states.

Thomas Tudor Tucker to St. George Tucker

My dearest Brother New York. Hall of Congress Apl. 17th. 1788. I have this Minute receiv'd your favor of the 7th Inst. by Colo. Car-

Page 59

April 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

rington, & feel real Distress at your Account of your present Situation. I was indeed hopeful that to the great Affliction of being deprived of the most valuable of Friends(1) you had not the additional Misfortune to feel yourself straighten'd in your pecuniary Circumstances. How much I partake of all your Griefs, & how happy I shou'd be to see them removed is truly beyond my powers of Utterance. I thought you at least possest of a Sufficiency to keep you free from anxious Anticipations of possible Sufferings to your self or dear Children. But it seems as if our Family were doom'd to a continual Struggle for the means of Existence. I before knew of your Appointment,(2) & was told by Mr. Madison that the Salary was 500£ per Annum, which, with a supposed independent Income, I flatter'd myself wou'd at least keep you free from Uneasiness. I still hope, my dear St. George, that your Difficulties will not be so great as you apprehend, & that from time to time something unforeseen will turn up to your Advantage. My own Circumstances are extreamly doubtful, insomuch that I scarcely dare to indulge serious Reflexion upon them, or to look forward to what may probably happen. But I believe the best way is not to be over minute in calculating future Chances, but to content ourselves with such Exercise of Foresight only as is necessary to enable us to manage our Affairs with prudence. When I go farther than this my Heart is apt to sink under the Heaviness of Despair. Let us endeavour to be comforted by the Consideration of our good Intentions, & leave the rest to Heaven. Whilst we live we shall at least have the Happiness to love each other, & when we die we shall certainly not make a Change for the worse. Those who are dependent on us can scarcely be supposed to be liable to more severe Sufferings than ourselves have experienced. I am indeed not philosopher enough to think of this without a Pang. But we must try to avoid giving ourselves up to an incessant Torture not merely fruitless but destructive of the Interests of those we love. May the Almighty give Comfort to your Heart, & make the Way smooth before you to the End of your Days! I rejoice that my dear Fanny has got better. Give my tender Love to her & the rest of your beloved Children. To my very good Friends Richard & Theodk. my Thanks for their Letters which I will reply to soon, & to all the three Youths my hearty & kind Regards. I must never forget my Friends Maria & Miss Carlos, who have a very great Share of my Affection. Commend me with particular Regard to Colos. Innes & Randolph & their Families. God bless you, my ever beloved Brother. I am most truly & affectly. Yours, Thos. Tud. Tucker(3) RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Papers). 1 For the death of St. George Tucker's wife, see these Letters, 24:601n.2. 2 That is, as "an additional Judge of the general court" following the reorganization of the Virginia court system in January, for which see Journals of the Virginia Council, 4:260; and Charles T. Cullen, St. George Tucker and Law in Virginia, 1772--;1804 (New York: Garland Publishing, Inc., 1987), pp. 72--;81.

Page 60

April 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

3 In an April 14 letter concerning the education of his brother's children, Thomas also informed St. George of his interviews with William Samuel Johnson, president of Columbia College, and Daniel Huger, Thomas's South Carolina colleague who had a nephew at Princeton, about the relative expenses and merits of the two colleges. D. Tennant Bryan deposit, ViU. St. George had married Frances Bland Randolph, widow of John Randolph, in 1778, and the children in question were the three sons from her first marriage---;Richard, Theodorick, and John Randolph---;rather than the two that she had borne St. George in 1780 and 1784. See DAB; and Cullen, St. George Tucker and Law in Virginia, pp. 21, 75. For St. George's decision to send the Randolph boys to Columbia, see Tucker to Tucker, June 23.

Nicholas Gilman to John Sullivan

Sir New York April 19th 1788 Since I had the honor to write your Excellency, of the 21st March,(1) the Commotion in Pennsylvania seems to have subsided. The accounts from Virginia since their election of delegates for the State Convention are rather favorable, as both parties write that there is a small majority east of the mountains in favor of the new System and that the question will depend in a great measure on the delegates from Kentuckey. The Antifederalists are endeavoring to excite jealousy in that quarter by giving it out that the first business of the new Congress will be to Ceede the Navigation of the Mississippi to Spain. If they should not succeed in this mischief it is probable the question will obtain in their Convention. I beg leave to relate, for your Excellencys amusement, a little affair which for several days interrupted the tranquility of this City: in which, however, there is nothing miraculous, though occasioned by raising the dead from their graves. It seems the young Surgeons had made a practice for several months past of diging up the dead for the purpose of anatomical dissection. The people in time became uneasy and applied to the Mayor for redress, but being unable to obtain relief or put a stop to the practice in that way, on Sunday last they surrounded the Hospital in a body and took several young men in the act of dissection; but gave them up to be confin'd without much abuse. The next day the mob assemble, ransack'd the houses of all most all the physicians in town & destroyed their valuable Anatomical preparations to a great amount. The Governor endeavored to prevent them, but to no effect. He at length order out the Militia---;but the number that turned out was so contemptable as to be disarmed and kick'd off the field. This so enraged the mob that they determined to force the Jail and cut off the young doctors hands. They accordingly made the attack---;broke down the yard---;all the lower windows of the prison and made an entry on the lower floor. A second attempt was made to turn out the Militia and about forty were collected with Arms, who,

Page 61

April 19, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

with a number of gentlemen, march'd up to the Jail amidst a shower of paving stones and brick bats. Mr. Jay was very badly wounded in the forehead but will probably recover---;The Governor, Baron Steuben and many others more slightly---;the Poor old Baron has got two black Eyes without the least consolation, as he execrates his own conduct for being in the action. They however recovered the Jail in time to save the lives of the prisoners but were finally obliged to fire upon the mob---;three of whom were killed and several wounded which put an end to the affray.(2) Let me beg your Excellencys acceptance of the Address herewith enclosed,(3) which I think contains some observation of general concern worthy of notice. I have the Honor to be, with the most perfect Respect, your Excellencys most obedient & very Humble servant, Ns. Gilman P.S. I am just now honored with your Excellencys obliging favor of the 4th instant with its enclosures, and beg leave to observe that as Colo. Long (who had the management of the Money in the hands of Mr. Wingate) declined taking an order on the Treasury I sent him my note of hand, payable twenty days after date, for £50, and requested the Loan officer to take it up; in hopes that he would receive money from the Treasury for the purpose. RC (Nh--;Ar: State Papers, Revolutionary Correspondence). Addressed: "His Excellency President Sullivan." 1 Not found. 2 For a modern discussion of these riots of April 13--;15, reconstructed primarily from contemporary newspaper accounts, see Jules Calvin Ladenheim, "`The Doctor's Mob' of 1788," Journal of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences 5 (Winter 1950): 23--;43. The following contemporary account, from an April 16 letter by William Heth to Edmund Randolph, is reprinted from the Calendar of Virginia State Papers, 4:425--;26. "We have been in a state of great tumult for a day or two past---;the causes of which, as well as I can digest them from various accounts, are as follows: The young Students of Physic have for some time past been loudly complained of for their very frequent and wanton trespasses in the burial ground of this City. The Corpse of a young gentleman from the West Indias was lately taken up, the grave left open, and the funeral clothing scattered about. A very handsome and much-esteemed young lady of good connections was also recently carry'd off. These, with various other acts of a similar kind, inflamed the minds of people exceedingly, and the young members of the faculty, as well as the Mansions of the dead, have been closely watched. On Sunday last, as some people were strolling by the Hospital, they discovered a something hanging up at one of the windows which excited their curiosity, and making use of a stick to Satisfy that curiosity, part of man's arm or leg tumbled out upon them. The cry of barbarity, &c., was soon spread; the young sons of Galen fled in every direction; one took refuge up a chimney. The mob rais'd and the Hospital appartments were ransacked. In the Anatomy-room were found three fresh bodies, one boiling in a kettle and two others cuting up, with certain parts of the two sexes hanging up in a most brutal position. These circumstances, together with the wanton and apparent inhuman complexion of the room, exasperated the mob beyond all bounds, to the total destruction of every anatomy in the Hospital, one of which was of so much value and utility that it is justly esteemed a great public

Page 62

April 19, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

loss, having been prepared in a way which costs much time and attention and requires great skill to accomplish. "On Monday morning the mob assembled again, and increased thro' the day to an alarming size. Vengeance was denounced against the faculty in general, but more particularly against certain individuals. Not a man of the profession thought himself safe. An innocent person got beat and abused for being only dressed in black. Two of the young tribe were unfortunate enough to fall into their hands, but the Mayor obtained them upon a promise of sending them to gaol---;a measure to which in their rage they submitted, not reflecting that sending them to goal would secure them from their violence and resentment, and therefore, as soon as they found themselves thus defeated in their furious intentions respecting their captives, they repaired to the goal and commenced their attack (with all that intemperance and folly which ever marks the conduct of people assembled in that way), vainly endeavouring to break in, when they could do nothing more than break windows, &c., which they will be taxed to repair. The militia were ordered out, small parties were sent to disperse them, but they instantly disarmed those attachments, broke their guns to peices, and made them scamper to save their lives. The evening advanced apace, and the affair became very serious. The Governor, after trudging about all day, first with the mob in the morning, endeavouring to pacify and accommodate, and in the afternoon to assemble a body respectable enough to preserve the goal and to restore peace and good order, advanced about dusk with a number of the Citizens, but without any kind of order or without any other than a few side arms and canes, while the Adjutant-Gen'l of the militia, about 300 yards in his rear, led up in very good order about 150 men, tho' not more than half with firearms, among whom were many gentlemen of the city and strangers, volunteers. This body were not long before the goal before the bricks and stones from the mob provoked several to fire, and perhaps their might, on the whole, have been 60 guns discharged, but this is mere guess. This body made their way into the goal where a party remained all night, but a sally of 60 or 70 were defeated. Three of the mob were killed on the spot, and one has since died of his wounds, and several were wounded. One of them was bayonetted on attempting to force into a window of the prison which he saw filled with armed men, a proof of the astonishing lengths to which popular rage will sometimes carry men. Numbers on the Governor's side, besides himself, are severely bruised. Baron Steuben rec'd a wound just above the corner of his left eye and nose, from which he lost a great deal of blood. Mr. Jay got his scull almost cracked, and are both now laid up. Gen'l Armstrong has got a bruised leg, but is able to go out. Yesterday the militia turned out again, and made a respectable appearance, and paraded about exceedingly, both Horse and Foot, but it must be observed that the enemy were not be heard of. In truth numbers who were in the mob on Monday evening turned out yesterday to support government." 3 Not identified.

Charles Thomson to James McHenry

Dear Sir New York April 19. 1788 I am sorry I have not been able sooner to answer your letter of the 19 of last month. I happened to be in Philadelphia when it reached New York. It was transmitted to me and when I received it I was in hopes I should have finished my business & returned in a few days. Therefore I immediately sent back the letter which was enclosed therein to be forwarded by the packet and deferred writing to you until I returned. My stay was longer than I expected, and after my return here I recd. your second letter of the 12 of this Month and at the

Page 63

April 19, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

same time an Account of your election. I hope, notwithstanding the choice made by the counties of A[nne Arundel], Baltimore and Harford, that the elections of [Maryland?] are such as will ensure the adoption of the new Constitution; for unless that takes place I confess to you my fears for the safety, tranquility and happiness of my country are greater than at any period of the late war. The present federal government is at the point of expiring. It cannot I think survive the present year and if it could experience must have convinced every man of reflection that it is altogether inadequate to the end designed. What remedy then have we prepared for the train of disastrous events which must necessarily ensue from a dissolution of the Union or what security for our independence, peace & happiness as a nation? You ask me what is the amount of the foreign & domestic debt? With regard to the foreign debt I beg leave to refer you to the enclosed schedule of the french & dutch loans shewing the periods of their redemption, the annual interest payable thereon & the instalments stipulated for discharging the principal.(1) To this you must add about 150,000 dollars due to Spain & 186,427 dollars due to foreign Officers, also a Million of florins which from the failure of the states Congress were under the necessity of borrowing last year to defray the interest of the dutch loans & other demands in Europe. As to the domestic debt I have to inform you that by the last estimate which the board of treasury laid before Congress, the amount thereof as far as then liquidated is 28,340,018 dollars. How much of this has been actually extinguished by the sale of western territory, I cannot certainly say. The tract which the Ohio company have in view to purchase is supposed to be between 5 & 6 Millions of Acres, but I believe they have only paid 500,000 dollars. The residue of the purchase Money is to be paid by yearly instalments and the Company by their agreement are at liberty to confine their purchase within the compass of their abilities & to take no more land than they are able to pay for. The tract which Symmes has agreed for is said to be 2 Million acres & Flint, Parker & Co. have [app]lied for the purchase of 3 Millions Acres; but I believe neither [. . .] have yet paid any money. The quantity of land surveyed & laid out into townships agreeably to the Land Ordinance is upwards of 700,000 Acres but of this there is only about 100,000 sold. As to the land unsurveyed the quantity is immense and in my opinion fully adequate to the extinguishment of the whole debt of the Union, provided we can have a firm, stable federal government; but without this I am apprehensive the Union will derive little benefit from it. As to the amount of the duties on a 5 per cent impost & the expence of the civil list under the new government it is altogether conjectural, but of this I am confident that the new government if established will from prudential motives encrease the former and lessen the latter as much as possible and however proper it may have been judged to vest it with

Page 64

April 19, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

the power of direct taxation, it will not proceed to the exercise of that power except in the last necessity. Enclosed I send you the first volume of the fŒderalist. The second volume is in the press & will, it is expected be out in the course of a week or two. As soon as it is published I will forward it to you. With sincere esteem & regard I am, Dr. Sr, Your obedt humble Servt, Cha Thomson RC (PPAmP: Miscellaneous Manuscripts). 1 A copy of this schedule is in PCC, item 141, 1:421--;22.

Abraham Baldwin to Thomas Jefferson

Sir New York 20th April 1788 Your favour of the 7th of Feby, with the enclosure from Mr Fanning, was duly received.(1) In the letter to Mr Fanning, which I do myself the honour to enclose,(2) I have given him all the information he will need for the security of his surveys. It must undoubtedly have occurred to you, Sir, that the present unexplained state of our southern and western boundary must have rendered it improper for the state of Georgia to do any thing respecting the private right of soil to the lands on the Missisippi. Many applications have been made, but the general assembly has never done any thing, but what appear[ed] necessary to prevent the present settlers in that country, from becoming our enemies from the apprehension that we might deprive them of their possessions. My expectation is, that the state of Georgia will soon(3) make a cession of their western territory to congress. They have long only waited an issue of our present great national question, whither they might expect protection in return. It did not appear necessary to state either of these reasons to Mr Fanning, as the measures to be pursued by them, for securing his ancient surveys of land in that territory, will probably be much the same, whether his titles are to be obtained from the state of Georgia, or from the united States. With the greatest respect & esteem, I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient humble servt., Abr Baldwin RC (DLC: Jefferson Papers). 1 For Jefferson's February 7 letter to the Georgia delegates, see Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:572--;73. 2 Not found, though Jefferson enclosed it in his July 29 letter to James Fanning, for which see ibid., 13:430. 3 At this point in the manuscript Jefferson inserted an asterisk to which he keyed a note at the bottom of the page: "They have done this. See New York journal. Mar. 17."

Page 65

April 20, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Georgia's cession act was finally submitted to Congress on May 29, after Baldwin was joined by his colleague William Few. See Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon, May 3, note; and Charles Thomson to George Handley, July 17, note 2.

Nathan Dane to George Thatcher

Dear Sir,(1) New York Apr, 20, 1788 Here we remain in an idle situation we had no Congress since you left this place---;six States and as may half States attend---;the business of the union must be neglected, because one or two gentlemen, who are in the City, must attend to their private business. We have now collected the accounts of the elections for the Virginia Convention---;it is impossible to say, with certainty, whether the Constitution in that State will be adopted or not---;however, I think appearances are rather in favor of its being adopted. With sentiments of sincere esteem & friendship, I am Dear Sir your Obedt Servant, N. Dane MS not found; reprinted from Historical Magazine, 2d ser. 6 (December 1869): 347. 1 The volume of Historical Magazine from which this letter is reprinted contains four Massachusetts delegate letters to Thatcher, but none from Thatcher while he was attending Congress. However, it does include the following letter from Thatcher to Pierse Long, dated "Biddeford 23 April 1788," which contains his observations on a number of issues that came before Congress during his prior attendance. "You enquire about the fate and settlement of the Western Country. To be particular upon this Question would involve answers to so many others which would fall insidentally in the way as would be tedious for a Letter, and therefore for the present, I shall only observe generally---;That the Companies of Cutler and Sergent, Flint and Parker, Symms and more than eight or nine million of acres---;to be paid for in Continental Securities at certain periods by Installments upon which payments deads [sic] are to be executed to the purchases, but if not paid for no Title is to be given, and I believe I am justified in saying that all the payments by the three Companies do not exceed half a million of Dollars---;and I am not certain that it does 270,000 Dollars. For my part I must acknowledge, my faith of paying the Domestic Debt, by regular sails of the western Land, never was very great. There is Land eno' and that which is excellent. A few days before I left New York, I was in company with the Geographer General of the United States and he said, from a calculation he had made, he would warrant there was more than two hundred million of acres of good Land on the North-west of the Ohio. But to me the Idea of runing this out, and by the neat proceeds of its sails discharging any considerable part of the Debt is almost as chimerical as to count upon the number of Cod-fish, and Whales in the ocean for that purpose. Not a great many purchasers have offered themselves, and few that have could give evidence of their ability, and of those that could, still a small number have, and probably ever will, freely comply with their contracts. Continental Securities have been for several years very low, perhaps lower than they ever will be hereafter should the proposed Constitution, or any other with energy enough to discharge the Interest he adopted. Hence if purchasers have found it difficult to discharge their Contracts while public Securities have been sold from 6/ to 3/ on the pound, what probability is there of their being enabled after the adoption of a Constitution that shall secure their Redemption, and make them equal to Silver and Gold.

Page 66

April 20, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

"As to the negotiation of public Treaties, it appears to me the existing articles of Confederation have exhibited to all Europe too evident marks of incompetency for any national purposes to induce foreign Powers to trust to Treaties made under them. The Queen of Portugal has shewn a disposition for negotiations of Friendship and Commerce. But here difficulties arise on the part of America, And perhaps if I were to say that Congress cannot command Cash or credit sufficient to support a negotiator at the Court of Lisbon, to promote and improve any overtures of this kind, I should not be far from the truth. Money is universally acknowledged to be the Sinews of war, and I think it cannot be doubted, to be equally necessary to the support of Civil Government, and the formation of foreign Treaties. "The Importance of the Navigation of the Masseseppee is a matter I am not sufficiently informed to say much about. . . . But from the general state of that Country there can be but little doubt, that if the navigation of the Messeseppee should be beneficial to the American Settlements, they will enjoy it. The Idea of Spain's interrupting it is almost inadmissible---;within 20 Years and upon the Settlement of a good Government the Danger will be on the side of Spains Losing her possessions on the Western Waters, rather than the Americans loosing the Navigation." Ibid., pp. 347--;48.

Virginia Delegates to William Heth

Sir New York 20th Apl. 1788 Conceiving that a greater degree of Justice is attainable in the adjustment of the Accounts of Virginia against the United States in the present State of the business, than is to be expected in any later period, or by an agreement of other Commissioners than those now employed, We are of opinion that it will be best for you to enter again upon it, in this City, and effect a close at the highest sum you can procure by Compromise or any other mode of negotiation which to you shall seem most practicable.(1) We are Sir, with great respect, your Most Obt. Servts., Ed. Carrington J. Brown Cyrus Griffin RC (PHi: Gratz Collection). Written by Carrington and signed by Carrington, Brown, and Griffin. 1 For the state of negotiations between commissioners Heth, William Pierce, and David Henley to this time, see James Madison to Edmund Randolph, March 3, note 1; and Virginia Delegates to Randolph, March 23. Fully aware that negotiations had resumed as a result of this directive, the committee appointed March 3 to consider the Virginia legislature's protest reported May 5 that neither Virginia nor Congress should interfere with the commissioners' negotiations and that both parties were "reciprocally bound" to honor the "final adjustment." Accordingly, Heth and Henley drew up articles of agreement (in the absence of Pierce who was ill) awarding Virginia $500,000 in specie as full compensation. They conveyed the articles to President Cyrus Griffin and to Gov. Randolph on May 15. Their letter and articles were read in Congress on May 23 and referred to Secretary Thomson to report. His recommendation of May 24 that the award "be transmitted to the board of treasury and filed in their Office" was rejected by

Page 67

April 21, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Congress on the 26th, due in part to the opposition of northern delegates who complained that the compensation was extravagant. The claim was not settled until 1793 when Virginia was awarded $740,000 under Alexander Hamilton's program to fund the national debt despite more exorbitant demands made by the state in the interim. See JCC, 34:134--;35, 178n.4, 180--;81; Cal. of Va. State Papers, 5:156--;57, 393, 7:48, 55; George Rogers Clark Papers, 1771--;1784, ed. by James Alton James and Theodore C. Pease, 2 vols. (Springfield, Ill.: Illinois State Historical Library, 1912--;26), 2:465--;77; and E. James Ferguson, The Power of the Purse: A History of American Public Finance, 1776--;1790 (Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 1961), pp. 216--;17, 324. For northern delegates' complaints, see, for example, Nicholas Gilman to John Sullivan, March 22; and Paine Wingate's letters to Samuel Lane of April 12

Page

and June 2.

LINK TO ANNALS

James White to Samuel Johnston

Sir, New-York. April 21st, 1788 In consequence of the letter I received from your Excellency,(1) enclosing representations from the western country, I urged the subject to the Minister of Spain. Tho', on the part of his country, he absolutely disavows that what has happened could have been thro the instigations of their subjects; he promises to write to their governors recommending their influence particularly with respect to our frontier. I do myself the honor to enclose a letter from him, which I take to be upon this subject.(2) It gives me pleasure to hear from Docr. Williamson that he & Mr. Swan, mean to attend, here, on the part of our state.(3) But people in general seem in a measure to despair of effecting any thing with a sick & worn out political constitution. Scarcely has there been a competent number of States, the whole winter. Even the delegation for New-york has neglected attendance, while, in the mean time, business, both of a private, & public nature, is waiting disappointed. That two gentlemen, & not one singly, are coming from the state of North-Carolina relieves me from an embarrassment I should other wise feel at being under the necessity of leaving this for a time. Tho' my wish, & design is to return as soon as I can arange the necessary means of support. The difficulty of procuring gold, as well as the very advanced rate of it, had induced me to trust to my salary, as superintendant of southern indians. But in the present state of their treasury no services to the united states can be rewarded. This apology, therefore, I have to make for quitting, tho' reluctantly, & but for a time, an appointment to which my country had done me the honor to name me. Shortly I shall be enabled to return to it. I presume you are acquainted of the cession of teritory made by Georgia. But it is conditional---;when 9 states accede to the new gov-

Page 68

April 21, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

ernment. The boundary line is to be drawn, from the head of Chatahouchi river, north. This claim may one day or other involve the united states in difficulties with the Spaniards, who hold it to be no part of the united states. However, it is very easy to see the government of the catholic King is relaxing in its policy in this respect. They begin to be convinced these states, especially the western country, are rather to be restrained by benevolence than violence. On almost the only occasion where nine states have assembled in this Congress, a petition from the people of Kentuckey, with approbation of Virginia, for admitting the former into the union has been debated. The eastern states seem much at a loss to decide. They are jealous of any additional influence in the southward. But if their partial views are indulged they disgust the tramontane people; whom, if not affection, fear, or interest will not long hold dependent on the Atlantic states. It is whispered that, whenever there are states sufficient to take up such business, Monr. le comte de Moustier means to present a memorial to them on the subject of the french debt. But I cannot think he will make such a representation, as in the present condition of these states can only serve to disgust. Tho', indeed, this minister is remarked not to be so courtly in his attentions to congress as his predecessor the chevallier de la Luzerne. The french consul, Monr. de la Forest, frequently reminds me of a debt which he is instructed to demand & which he says is due to the marine of France from our state. He says he hopes we shall no longer delay to pay attention to it. Upon my assuring him our legislature had taken up the business in such a manner as was thought a sufficient provision; he answered me, the proceeds were quite inadequate.(4) I am sorry to inform you that in a late furious commotion of this populace, five of them were mortally wounded. The minister of foreign affs., & others, much bruised. The clamor was raised in consequence of indiscreet dissections of some surgeons. I have the honor to remain, your Excellency's obedt. servant, James White RC (NjMoHP: Lloyd W. Smith Collection). 1 Johnston's March 5 letter to White is in N. C. State Records, 21:454--;55. 2 For the enclosed April 18 letter from Diego de Gardoqui to Johnston, see ibid., pp. 464--;65. Johnston's May 8 response is at ibid., pp. 468--;69. 3 Hugh Williamson took his seat in Congress on May 16; John Swann on May 29. JCC, 34:155, 186. 4 For Johnston's May 8 reply to White, see N. C. State Records, 21:469--;70. For North Carolina's French debt, see also ibid., pp. 470--;71, 473; and these Letters, 21:500--;501n.2, 22:437n.3 .

Page 69

April 23, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Edward Carrington to James Madison

My dear Sir, New York Apl. 23. 1788 I have the pleasure to forward herewith two packets which came by the last French Packet. The business of the constitution as referred to the Town meetings of Rhode Island, is over without producing any effect. Three of the Towns were decidedly for calling on the Legislature to appoint a convention according to the mode prescribed, and this it seems from freindly views to the measure. The remaining Towns have done nothing decisive of their sentiments---;a few of them have apparently voted against it, but it is said & I beleive with Truth, that the reason votes do not appear in favor, is that the Freinds objected so directly against the mode of proceeding, that they would not act at all. In some others there are votes both for & against & at the same time propositions for insisting on the Legislatures calling a Convention. Upon the whole it is a pretty decided matter that Rhode Island will not be amongst the adopting States by June. We have no Congress but it is expected we shall have one in a few days---;this a triffling business which I long to see an end of. I am Yrs. afftlly., Ed. Carrington RC (DLC: Madison Papers).

Paine Wingate to John Sullivan

Sir New York April 23d. 1788 I am honoured with your favor of the third Instant, and am happy to find that your sentiments respecting the Independency of Kentucky, as a State distinct from Virginia, coincide with those I had advanced in a committee of Congress. There is one Idea which your Excellency suggests, sufficient I think to evince that the present confederation does not provide for the erecting new states out of those already in the Union, namely, "because nine states are competent to determine any question before Congress," and upon this supposition, a minority of the states in the union might be so circumstanced as to decide upon the most important matters. This business of Kentucky has not been before Congress but once yet, and I believe there will be some very decent excuse found, for deferring the determination at present, without exciting the resentment of Kentucky. That country is encreasing surprizingly. An Officer, who has lately

Page 70

April 23, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

come from fort Pitt, says that on the road within the distance of 150 miles, he met seven thousand people moving thither, and that Indian Corn was so plenty there, that it might be bought for nine pence per bushel. Captain Hutchins, the Geographer of the united states, gives the most flattering accounts of the western country. He says that there are more than one hundred millions of acres of excellent land there, and he is so confident that it may soon become the source of wealth, that he will stipulate with sufficient sureties to pay off 15 millions of Dollars of the domestic debt within five years by the sale of those lands, if Congress will now supply him with 8 thousand specie dollars for the expence of surveying &c. But so low is the state of the treasury that money cannot be spared. And while we have the pleasure of reflecting on this western prospect, our European prospects are the most discouraging. Letters from Governor Jefferson of Feb. last in France,(1) inform Congress that it will be absolutely necessary to pay the Interest of our loans in Holland very shortly, if we would preserve any degree of credit there; that the supplys, expected from the new loan negotiated there, have stopped. And he has proposed a very disadvantageous mode of relief to the consideration of Congress, without recommending it, only stating our situation. He says that there is a certain Dutch Gentleman, mentioning his name which I cannot recollect, who now holds 1,340,000 Dollars of our domestic securities, and he will engage to fill up our loans, which have been stipulated for in Holland to a considerable amount, and which if procured, would answer our present urgent demands; but it is upon this hard condition that Congress will allow him out of that money 189,000 Guilders in pay of the Interest due to him on those securities, he allowing 10 per Cent out of the interest for receiving his pay in Europe. A very extraordinary offer this! An answer is desired by Mr. Jefferson within three months from the date of his letter in Feb. It is probable this sum asked for, is of more value than the whole purchase of those securities. The sum this single European possesses is near one twentieth part of our domestic debt & it is said that there are large orders now from Europe for buying up our securities at their depreciated value. If this Dutchman could obtain the interest he proposes it is probable that it would increase their avidity to buy, a consideration not very favorable to the interest, if the peace of the united states. We have for some time not had a congress owing to some of the members going home, but it is expected that others will be here in a few days. There is considerable business which will claim the attention of Congress as soon as the states assemble. The Mob in New York have been quiet since the Militia dispersed them at the Goal.(2) It is said that Governor Clinton disavows his ordering the Militia to fire, & says he had rather they should have been disarmed by the mob, than they should have killed his fellow citizens. Baron Steuben, who got sadly pelted by marching with those who were armed, says, damn such fellow citizens. The Gov-

Page 71

April 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

ernor & Mayor are blamed by the populace, tho' they even degraded themselves in trying to please them. The Doctors are before the grand Jurors now for tryal and it remains an uncertainty what will be the issue. I have nothing very consequential to communicate to your Excellency, beg leave to assure your Excellency that with the highest sentiments of Esteem & respect, I have the honor to be your most obedient & humble Servant, Paine Wingate RC (Nh--;Ar: State Papers, Revolutionary Correspondence). 1 For this February 7 letter to the board of treasury, see Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:573--;74. 2 See Nicholas Gilman to Sullivan, April 19, note 2.

Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson

Dear Sir New York Apl. 24. 1788 I was but a few days ago honoured with your favor of the 21 December.(1) Having been absent on a trip to Virginia ever since the 1t of Jany I was alike cut off from it, and an opportunity of writing you. Massachusetts, Jersey, Pensylvania, Deleware, Connecticut and Georgia, have adopted the Constitution. New Hampshire has been in convention upon it, but finding that a Majority had assembled under instructions or promises to vote in the Negative, of whom a sufficient number were converted to turn the scale, an adjournment has taken place until June for the purpose of getting such clear of their fetters, and it is not doubted by the Friends of the measure, that this will be effected so that a ready adoption will be the consequence of their reassembling. New York, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina & South Carolina are to deliberate between this and July---;in Maryland & South Carolina no doubt is entertained as to the adoption---;in New York & Virginia very active opposition is made and the event is uncertain. In the latter it will depend much upon the ideas entertained in convention as to the issue in N. Hampshire, whose reassembling is to be after the meeting in Virga. I am certain that a great Majority of our Convention, will be for adopting upon being ascertained that nine states will adopt, as much worse apprehensions are held from the event of a disunion, that [than] from any thing that is in the constitution. We have a party that is truly antifederal headed by Mr. Henry, but it will be limitted to a few, unless the federalists who are for amendments, should, from a mistaken view of the probability of the measures being carried into effect by Nine States, be drawn into steps favouring the antifederal scheme. Mr. H---;---; does not openly declare for a dismemberment of the union, but his Arguments in support of his opposition to the constitution, go directly to that issue. He says that three confed-

Page 72

April 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

eracies would be practicable & better suited to the good of America, than one. God forbid that I should ever see the trial made. Virginia would fall into a division from which she might add to her burthens, but could never derive aid of any kind. North Carolina is to sit after Virginia, and it is probable, will follow her---;of Rhode Island we say nothing when speaking of American politics. Of the States which have adopted, Jersey & Deleware were unanimous. Georgia we hear was also unanimous---;in Pensylvania the Majority was about two thirds & the Minority continue much discontented---;in Connecticut the Majority was about two thirds, the Minority acquiescing---;in Massachusetts the Majority was small the Minority acquiescing. The debates of this convention have been published, a Copy whereof you will receive herewith.(2) It would have afforded me much pleasure to have seen your sentiments fully upon this subject but Mr. Madison having gone to Virga. before my return to this City, I have not seen your letter to him as yet.(3) You ask "would it not have been better to assign to Congress, exclusively, the Article of imports for federal purposes, & to have left direct Taxation exclusively to the States." It is probable that the former, aided by the Land Office, might have cleared off the present debts of the Union, and supported the current expences of Government during peace, but in a case of War, other resources must be brought into practice, and with a view to such an event, some coercive principle must have been established whereby the federal Government should act with effect, and had this not been interwoven in its civil administration, a military one must occasionally have been put in practice upon delinquent states. The former will never be exercised but when necessary, & then in a way not odious or inconvenient to the people. The latter must forever be both odious and inconvenent, let the occasion be what it may. I feel sensibly for your situation with our numerous and too justly discontented foreign Creditors. Nor do I see a prospect of relief before the New Government shall get into operation, which must still require some time. The proposition for filling up the Loan in Holland provided the Broker be suffered to retain 180,000 Guilders the interest of certain certificates in his possession of our domestic debt, will not be acceded to by Congress, and yet I do not see upon what ground we are to expect that loans will be made upon the common principle. I should myself be for acceding, because, it appears that it would preserve our Credit until it is probable the new Government would commence, this I think so great an object, that I would not stand on a precise adherence to Systems. We have at present not a

Page 73

April 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

competent Congress to act in the Case, but from the Sentiment of the members attending, and those of the Board of Treasury, I am convinced the terms would not be accepted. I hope the views of our Creditors are turned upon the revolution which is about to take place with us, and that they may be induced to continue their patience until time shall produce the issue. I apprehend that amongst the first measures of the new Government, will be that of negotiating Loans for the purpose of satisfying the foreigners to whom the U.S. are indebted, as it will require some time to bring into practice the resources from which money is to be derivd. I am happy that my information in the case of Commodore Jones apprised you of the hazards you might have run, & I am at the same time pleased that you fell on the expedient of acting safely without disappointing him.(4) The business of the prize money which was paid under your direction is fully understood by Congress, and I believe every one else whose attention has been called to it. I am much obliged by your information upon European politics. It is true we ought not to entangle ourselves in the affairs of others, when we can avoid it, but keeping clear of them depends, in some measure, upon knowing their circumstances & views. I will venture one idea upon European politics. It would seem that the Turks should meet with support against Russia from other powers in addition to France. Russia has already a vast Territory which is peopling fast; she is also growing in naval force. Suppose she should get Turkey with those seas which belong to it, would she not be dangerous to the rest of Europe? I have the Honor to be, Dr Sir with the most perfect respect & Esteem, Your Most obt. Servt., Ed. Carrington P.S. I have not a list of the Returns for the Virginia Convention or I would sent it to you. It contains many obscure characters whom you would know nothing of. It is unfortunate that in this great business the passions instead of the Reason of the people were called into operation. This circumstance renders the issue there the more uncertain because a great proportion must act from the influence of a few Men whose popular talents may be exerted. RC (DLC: Jefferson Papers). 1 See Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:445--;47. 2 For the Debates, Resolutions and other Proceedings, of the Convention of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Convened at Boston, on the 9th of January, 1788. . .for the Purpose of Assenting to and Ratifying the Constitution Recommended by the Grand Federal Convention (Boston: Adams and Nourse, 1788), see Evans, Am. Bibliography, no. 21,242. 3 Apparently Jefferson's December 20 letter to Madison containing his first comprehensive commentary on the Constitution, for which see Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:438--;43; and Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 8:249--;53. 4 See Carrington to Jefferson, November 10, 1787.

Page 74

April 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Samuel A. Otis to James Warren

Dear Sir New York April 24th 1788 Your favr 23d March have before me, And attributing your silence to the pressure of public business without suspecting a want of attention from you, anticipated your apology. Last Evening recd. also yours 13th Instant & to both shall make the necessary reply. Elections were under the first article. Upon which did I not recollect some striking instances of their precarious nature I should feel a greater dissappointment. By what I can learn there does not appear to be a choice of L Govr by the people, of course the same ground is to be traversed in General Court. Mr H carries all before him,(1) and altho I supposed he could be elected, I had great expectation, from what you observed, that his competitor would have stood higher. The sale to Messrs. Gorham & Phelps is estimated by some of my friends as an advantageous one.(2) I confess, if they are so obligated as to make the payments sure and punctual, it appears to be a good sale, Under all circumstances. There is a glutt of Land at Market of which the U S A hold two hundred million acres. I am obliged for your attention to my particular finances. As to adjourning farther South it will not probably take place under the present Confederation. What a new Year may effect, or the New System you have so much at heart may produce, depends upon various contingencies. In regard to the accumulated and increasing debt of the Union, some people give broad hints that it will be paid with a sponge; which I think under our present weak & resourceless circumstances, will be a natural Consequence. Under a new energetic Government, I hear some politicians say, our inability is an insuperable bar to payment. The same men say resources might be pointed to of importance sufficient to pay an interest of 3 per Cent; And I am of opinion could the debt be funded at 3 per Cent, the holders of securities left at their option to reloan at three, or take their chance of unfunded securities at six, the bulk of the debt would be reloaned. To this it may be said the cry of injustice will be sett up; As it would indubitably at a sponge. Upon which I reply. In the first place that, upon the whole, which will effect most extensive justice, to the greatest number of individuals, must be done. In the second place whats done by consent takes away error. And lastly, If it shall appear impracticable to effect more than three per Cent, will not necessity, which is paramount to all law, justify the measure? You will reply let this necessity be made apparent prior to such proceeding; In which I am perfectly agreed. Before I go from the subject, I am induced to think that under our present impoverished circumstances, could any measure be devised to fund our debt, & make sound appropriations for the interest at even less than three

Page 75

April 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

per Cent, it would reanimate a dead mass of useless paper & instantly make it an efficient Capital for the farmer, the Merchant, the manfacturier, & every man in the Community. Whether "regeneration" is necessary to induce N England, my honored Country, to adopt the New System or not, you who are in one of its largest states can form the best judgment; But am confident without that miraculous change, They will find the necessity of that, or one very like it. For as to the old wheel it wont budge an inch, & seems shattered to pieces. That some of the old spokes, & perhaps felloes, may do again I have no doubt but that the nave must be taken out, & the whole worked over again appears to me indispensible. I do not form my judgment altogether upon what information I get from Boston, but compare it with that from my friends at Milton, & other parts of the state. Ruling all which together the result seems to be that N Hamshire are divided, & so is N J. The majority of one, I am convinced are against fŒderal measures & possibly of both. As to N Y one party are sure of adoption, another as positive it will be rejected. So no judgment can be formed. Some think Govr Clinton will be elected for the City, which I doubt. He will come in however by a handsome majority for Ulster County. Maryland by a very large majority will accede; So will So Carolina. N Carolina will probably operate as Virginia, which State I think will be nearly divided; But I rather think from the best information attainable, the majority will carry it for adopting, with amendments, upon the plan of Massachusetts. I have heard in the Circles here, you, or Sister W have written the Columbian patriot.(3) I suspect you, but wish to have it Ascertained; for the purposes only of curiosity believe me. To your demand to know what we are doing in Congress I answer---;Nothing. To your enquiry what have we done? I answer---;almost nothing. Yet I dont know that those who have attended, which Massachusetts have incessantly, are to be blamed. The States have been in such a flutter about the New, that they have hardly paid attention to the old Government. One week we have nine States, Then again we have only four or five; For to my surprise the Members are under no kind of control & take themselves away whenever they think proper. The State of N York particularly altho there are sometimes two or three members in Town have for weeks together, had only a single member present. What is to be done? Massachusetts, & I presume others have written to their Legislatures upon the Subject. Is more in their power? Most of the members are either of the Convention, or just before election dance down to the Hustings, And whether they are successful candidates or not, their attendance upon Congress is withdrawn. We have a prospect however of a full House in May,(4) when we shall soon finish the more important business, & if the States agree, follow our instructions in organizing the new Government, & so

Page 76

April 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

cede. The doing it before is courting encroachment. And leaving the people to the mercy of any rude invader. And I am not ready for despotism. Your refusal to christen "Parson's handling," and "re Eccho to the speech" shows a favorable combination is effected against the doings of convention. By the way, the Govr. was offended at Thacher & self for addressing the Legislature, other than thro' him, which we did upon the supposition it was usually done while they were in sessions; However he refused, & gave this as a reason for not signing the resolve, empowering the delegates to procure a plan of the Line. I am perswaded heretofore communications have been thus made. I informed Mr Walker your ballance was ready,(4) & upon its appearing that the money received is identified, he says no objection can be made to receiving it. Farther, I have requested him to give me on paper the objections, informalities &c which require answer & remedy, & I will communicate them; which he assures me shall be done without delay. I will very chearfully attend the settlement & if in my power effect it. The other matter is still at the Treasury Board, Mr Osgood informs me, that he hourly expects the returns from the commissioners, & if it shall appear that the U S A have not paid the difference between 40 & 75 they will allow it. As for the recovery of your depreciation I see no great prospect of it. Congress have refered this business to the Treasury board before I came on; The Treasury Board have given an opinion in many instances against admiting new demands for depreciation, And in yours amongst the rest, and to me have repeated it as an impracticability. So that I confess I know not how to get forward in the business. I will again converse the board & effect everything in my power. You will oblige Cobams & Hamatt to forward me their Charter party of Schooner Dispatch, having requested me to close the account for them. Upon application to the offices where the Navy Board papers were lodged; I am informed no Charter parties were forwarded, Which I wonder at. Love to Sister & the family from, Yours very affectionatly, Sam A Otis P.S. Mr. Walker says the ballance is £68 263.18.3 agreeably to corrected cash book, by the Vouchers. They are so very minute & scrupulous, I see no chance of a speedy settlement unless Mr. Henderson would come on. But I suppose in that case they would allow nothing for expences. I will forward Mr Walkers objections however under his own hand. Upon perusal of the papers I am fully perswaded the ribaldry flung at you by your enimies will tend more to make you friends than anything else, And if their spleen had not blinded them they would see the natural consequence.

Page 77

April 25, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

John Sullivan was one of the Sargents who led the mutiny & assaulted Congress in Philadelphia; Afterwards fled for misdemeanors into the Western world. Tis supposed he was concerned in murdering some Spanyards & is a very dangerous desperate character. Hamar has an order to take him as a dangerous enimy to the U S A.(5) RC (MHi: Mercy Warren Papers). 1 That is, John Hancock, who had just been reelected governor of Massachusetts over the antifederalist candidate Elbridge Gerry, who received only 19% of the vote. Warren had been the antifederalist candidate for lieutenant governor in a three-way race with Samuel Adams and Benjamin Lincoln, polling 29% of the vote compared to 17% and 48% respectively for his opponents. See Hall, Politics Without Parties, pp. 299--;301. 2 For Massachusetts' sale to Nathaniel Gorham and Oliver Phelps of its interest in nearly six million acres of land in southwestern New York obtained in the December 16, 1786, Hartford agreement between the two states, see ibid., pp. 298--;99; and JCC, 33:619--;29. See also Orsamus Turner, History of the Pioneer Settlement of Phelps and Gorham's Purchase. . .(Rochester, N.Y.: William Alling, 1851), pp. 135--;52; and DAB (q.v., Nathaniel Gorham and Oliver Phelps). (3) Warren's wife, Mercy Otis Warren, had written "Observations on the New Constitution" under the pseudonym "A Columbian Patriot." The 19-page pamphlet had been published in Boston in late February. See Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 16:272-91. 4 Congress achieved a quorum for the first time in five weeks on May 2. See JCC, 34:114--;19. 5 See Otis to Warren, March 9. 6 Josiah Harmar's order to seize Lt. John Sullivan was actually a November 14, 1787, letter from the secretary at war, Henry Knox, in which Knox enclosed a copy of a September 24 letter from Sullivan to one William Brown disclosing plans for an attempt on Natchez or New Orleans which might embroil the United States in a controversy with Spain. Harmar reported the steps he had taken for Sullivan's arrest in a January 10 letter to Knox, which had been reported to Congress February 1, but there is no record of a debate on the subject in the journals. A July 7 report to Congress from Knox enclosing a further report from Harmar was referred on July 15 to the secretary for foreign affairs, John Jay, to communicate to the Spanish chargé Diego de Gardoqui Congress' concern over the threat posed by Sullivan, but Jay did not do so until September 5. See JCC, 34:21--;22, 299--;300, 328n; and PCC, item 125, fols. 161--;68, item 150, 3:1--;8, 13--;19, 109--;13.

Edward Carrington to William Short

My dear Sir, New York Apl. 25. 1788 I a few days ago had the pleasure to receive your two favors of the 22d Decr. & 4th of Feby.(1) My absence from this City placed me out of the reach of them, and also an opportunity of writing you. I have many acknowledgements to make you for your repeated communications, which to me are at the same time pleasing and instructing. From European affairs we ought to keep ourselves as clear as possible, as our happiness & prosperity are abundantly to be found within ourselves, but at the same time our thus keeping clear, de-

Page 78

April 25, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

pends, in some measure, upon our knowing what is going forward there, and the changes which have happened, or are likely to take place, in their various connections & circumstances. I have by this opportunity written fully to Mr. Jefferson upon the politics of this Country to which I beg leave to refer you.(2) I have also inclosed him a Copy of the debates of the Convention of Massachusetts which you will find interesting. To you I enclose a few of the New York papers which contain some of the politics of this state---;be good enough to give Mr. Jefferson a sight of them. The convention of Virginia is to set in the fore part of June---;it will have in it some of our greatest Men, such as Pendleton, Wythe, Madison, Blair, Innes & Marshal, who are decidedly for the Constitution. Mason & Governor Randolph, who are for it, with amendments but say they will not hazard the Union in attempting them. Henry under whose banner some of tolerable influence will enlist against the constitution, & I fear upon a direct antifederal principle---;it is unfortunate that in the elections the passions instead of the reasons of the people, were brought into operation too generally, which occasions the great body of the convention to be of weak & obscure men---;these will be subjects for Management, and the popular talents of Mr. H---;---; is to be dreaded amongst them. By the next Packet I will write you more fully. Mr. Brown of our delegation is the Gentleman you supposed---;I had already found him to answer your description.(3) I shewed him your letter---;He says he will write you. This will be handed you by Mr. Paradise whose Lady(4) accompanies him to France---;they are already well known to Mr. Jefferson, and I beg leave to introduce them to you. I am My dr sir, Your Afft. Friend & Hl St., Ed. Carrington RC (DLC: Short Papers). 1 Copies of both of these letters are in the Short Papers, DLC. 2 See Carrington to Jefferson, April 24. 3 In his February 4 letter, Short had inquired about his "old acquaintance & friend" John Brown, Kentucky's representative in the Virginia delegation, volunteering that "there are few men of more real understanding & sounder judgment than he is." 4 That is, John and Lucy Ludwell Paradise.

South Carolina Delegates to Thomas Jefferson

Sir New York April 25th. 1788. We receiv'd by the Juno from Havre your Excellency's Favor of the 13th Jany. last,(1) accompanied by a Letter and a Cask of Rice to be forwarded to Mr. Drayton in Charleston. The Letter was forwarded on the day it came to us, but the rice cou'd not be sent by the same Conveyance. It is, however, now on board a Vessel ready to sail for that

Page 79

April 26, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

place, and we are hopeful it will arrive before the sowing Season is too far advanced to give it a Trial. As Citizens of South Carolina we beg Leave to express our thankful Acknowledgements for your Attention to the Interests of that State. We have the Honor to be with the most perfect respect Your Excellency's Obedt. humb. Servts., Dl. Huger John Parker Thos. Tud. Tucker RC (MHi); reprinted from Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 13:107. 1 For which, see ibid., 12:509.

Abraham Baldwin to Seaborn Jones

Dear Sir(1) New York 26th April 1788 I have just received a letter from our Quaker clients in Philadelphia respecting their suit against Middleton and others.(2) From your letter to Sykes it seemed the nonsuit must have been for want of administration. I have ventured to assure them that any business in which I was concerned has been better managed in my absence than it would have been by me, and that if they have any further instructions or information they must transmit them to you. I have considered theirs as a sad scrape from the beginning, and wish they were well out of it. I wish you to direct them and to give them every assistance in your power, any expence and trouble you may be at I shall with pleasure compensate. Maryland convention is sitting, every body says they are very federal. This state is very doubtful, their convention meets the 17th of June. Rhode Island has rejected; New Hampshire almost as bad, they have adjourned till June. There is nothing new from abroad but what you see in the papers. Sykes is in Philadelphia, if you find administration necessary, though I am confident it is not, yet be governed by your own confidence, and tell him what you think proper. You are so much the man of pen and ink I have much wondered that you have so withheld the usual exercises of your goodness, as not to give me a single line the year past. With sincere esteem and regard I am, Dear Sir, your obedient humble servant, Abr Baldwin RC (MiDbEI: Americana Collection). Addressed: "S Jones Esqr." 1 Apparently Seaborn Jones, lawyer and former clerk of the Georgia Council, who as speaker of the assembly led the anti-Yazoo faction in opposing the sale of western lands to private companies in 1789 after Congress rejected Georgia's land cession of January 1788. See The Revolutionary Records of the State of Georgia, ed. Allen D. Candler, 3 vols. (At-

Page 80

April 26, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

lanta: Franklin-Turner Co., 1908), 2:334; and George R. Lamplugh, Politics on the Periphery: Factions and Parties in Georgia, 1783--;1806 (Newark: University of Delaware Press, 1986), pp. 68, 105. 2 Not identified.

Nathan Dane to Theodore Sedgwick

My Dear Sir New York April 27 1788. I confess I can't help accusing myself with faults and negligence, whenever I omit, for any considerable time, writing to my friends, especially those I very sincerely love and esteem, and for the first place you hold among these in the affections of your constant friend, your allowing me to hold the like place in yours will ever afford me the greatest pleasure and happiness. For my negligence my friends must sometimes allow to plead my indolent habits---;and sometimes I have a better excuse, I mean the want of information, & ideas, words, and matter worthy their notice---;and you, who may be always sure of my sincerest regards and sentiments of friendship, will, I am persuaded, allow me another excuse, and agree that forms and ceremonies shall be dispensed with. Here we are in an idle and painful situation, no Congress for doing business more than one day in twelve or fifteen,(1) public affairs neglected, and we kept here only as Spectators of a declining Government, and of those little wretched games of interest and self always played in times of disorder and in the passage from one kind of Government to another. How long we shall remain in this situation is uncertain---;however I think not long. The Constitution must pretty soon take place in peace, or else the Scene become more turbulent, and consequently more active. Should it be peaceably adopted our affairs will be, I believe, on a better footing, at least for sometime and as to the final Consequences time and experience must determine. I have ever been as much discouraged about the administration of our Governments, as about the forms of our Constitutions---;and I think we may depend on this---;that we may make and alter Constitu[tions] eternally on paper, it will answer little or no purpose, if we be not more Steady and attentive in the administration of public affairs. Sir Wm. Temple observes, and I Think Justly, that the Dutch had neither parts, genius or wit, and that they had but very indifferent Constitutions, and yet, that they were the best Statesmen in the world, and enjoyed an exceeding good Government; that by their industry, application, and uniform perseverence, and by their frugality, &c. they made compensation for all the defects of their Constitutions, and for their difficiencies in point of genius, and quickness of discernment.(2) In fact

Page 81

April 27, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

the Dutch merely by the force of system and application in the administration of their affairs, have long been respectable in a miserable Country, in a mixture of sand, mud, and water, where any other people on Earth would have perished. They see the ship is well ballast'd, and the first requisite in their magistrates is a capacity for applying systematically to business. Are we not in this Country often deceived with a brilliant imagination, where there is no depth of Judgment, or any talents for business? Have not the States often, in delegating men to Congress chosen their most Showy and, yet in fact, their most triffling characters, men who never come forward with a view steadily to pursue and support systems, and to shew their abilities in that line; but only with a view to overturn all measures adopted by others, and to introduce new ones of their own, and thereby perpetuate change and instability? We have done no business of any importance in Congress this year nor is there much to be done. We have eight States and three half States---;Just money received into the Treasury to keep the Government in motion---;no foreign Communications of any importance---;the present calm in Europe is thought generally to be but temporary---;the affairs of the Dutch [are] unsettled---;punishments and confiscations carried with a pretty high hand. Mr. Adams returns to Boston soon, probably by the middle of May---;and Colo. Smith to New York. Brother Thatcher returned to Massa. about the last of March---;and proposes to be again in Congress about the first of August. I wish you to attend if you can find it convenient early in the Summer. My affairs then will require that I should, for a short time, be in Massa., and I will be very much obliged to you to let me know, as soon as you conveniently can, your determinations respecting your attendance in Congress. It is probable by the first of August that nine States will have agreed to the Constitution---;and it is my wish to attend to my private affairs in Massa. and be returned to Congress by that time. Maryland Convention is now in Session, and I believe will adopt the Constitution, without any doubt. South Carolina Convention will, probably, adopt it by the first of June. Virginia and New Hampshire will probably decide by the first of July & there is pretty clearly more than an equal chance that one or the other of these states will adopt. I am rather disposed to believe that all the States except R.I. will adopt; but, at present, little can be said with certainty as to New Hampshire, N.Y., Virga. or N Carolina. Be kind enough, Sir, to give my respects to Brother Strong and to our friend Bacon when you see them, and let my best regards always be remembered for your family. With Sentiments of esteem and friendship, I am, Dear Sir, your affecte. Hum Servant, N. Dane

Page 82

April 27, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

PS. Let me know when you shall have a leisure hour how elections and politics stand in your part of the State---;as to several of the Counties from which we have had information, as Essex, Suffolk &c. I think the elections have a favourable appearance. RC (MHi: Sedgwick Papers). 1 Congress failed to convene a quorum from March 27 to May 2. See JCC, 34:114--;19. 2 For which see chapter two, "Of Their Government," in Sir William Temple's "Observations upon the United Provinces of the Netherlands." William Temple, The Works of Sir William Temple, 4 vols. (1814; reprint ed., New York: Greenwood Press, 1968), 1:94--;125.

Cyrus Griffin to Thomas Fitzsimmons

My dear sir N.Y. April 27. [1788] I now send a Boy under your freindly direction as one postilion to drive my family to this place---;another I must beg to be hired in Philadelphia. The President's Coach was demolished before I came to the house or I would send it---;and the Chariot is still less than my own, and indeed cannot be spared at present. If my kind friend Mr. Obrien should think it convenient to come on about the time, and can venture on horse-back or sulkey I beg that Mr Heilzimer will furnish the best he can get---;the return Boy may carry them back---;and all expences I will pay most gladly. I shall be rejoiced to know by post when the family set out, and other circumstances. The bearer of this letter will carry the horses from Bristol. I have not the smallest objection to the Girl's coming. For some days I have endeavoured to get a good Bill at sight upon Phila.---;but cannot---;but some bank notes are promised in a day or two---;they shall instantly be remitted. I beg leave to thank you, my dear sir, and your very kind lady for so much goodness to a very helpless family---;we seem to have been united to give trouble to others---;and when it will finish heaven only knows. I hope you intend to pay us a visit this summer---;such a Journey would do service to the health of Mrs. Fitzsimons, and how greatly would it contribute to our happiness. I shall have a room prepared, and shall insist that Mr. Obrien continue with us during his stay at N. York. The Emperor has declared war against the Turks, and probably the rest of Europe will soon be engaged, or the greater part of it. His Majesty of Britain is sending additional troops to the West-Indies, and to Canada---;for what purpose? Accept the yesterdays paper.

Page 83

April 28, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

With my affect. respects to Mrs. Fitzsimons, I am dear sir, Yours sincerely, C Griffin [P.S.] I suppose my troublesome folks can hard[l]y set out so soon as I once mentioned. RC (St. Mary of the Lake Seminary, Mundelein, Ill.).

Cyrus Griffin to James Madison

My dear sir N. York April 28. [1788] I am favored by your friendly letter of April the 10th.(1) How it happened that No. 69 of Publius should have been omitted I can hardly imagine; the neglect shall be done away if any acquaintance or the printer are in possession of that paper.(2) The marchioness is perfectly upon her feet---;for she walks five miles every day---;and with great pleasure I will execute your Commands to her, and the Count---;who are going to Philadelphia on Thursday next. I am very sorry to hear that your calculations render the adoption of the constitution so uncertain---;I did once think that my conclusion upon the matter was erroneous---;but alas! my dear sir, without a change of opinion when the members assemble I fear the system will be lost; however if it shall depend upon Kentucky Brown is determined to exert all his Influence in favor of it. This morning your letter is sent to Charleston by a proper conveyance.(3) My two last packets to you contained letters from Europe---;by this post I do myself the pleasure to enclose others, and the paper of today. The Emperor having declared war against the Turks---;and being determined to act with vigor---;in all probability the flames will extend farther. His Ottoman Majesty does not discover the least Inclination for peace upon the Conditions offered by Russia, and France being in strict union with the Porte cannot remain idle. Colonel Carrington has gotten amoung us again---;but does not seem to be in good spirits---;whether from love matters, or from the loss of his election in Virginia,(4) or from what other Cause I do not know. We expect to make nine states in the course of this week---;tho at present the weather is very bad. What am I to do with the boxes and packages under your direction. Your very affet. and obedient humble servant, C Griffin RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 Not found.

Page 84

April 28, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

2 The Federalist No. 69, written by Alexander Hamilton, had appeared in the New York Independent Journal on March 15 and was reprinted in the New York Packet of March 18. See Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 16:396--;402. 3 Not identified, but for speculation on its recipient, see Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:20n.1, 31n.2. 4 For Edward Carrington's seven-vote loss to Thomas Turpin, Jr., in the March 20 Powhatan Co. election to the Virginia ratifying convention, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 8:492n.3, 9:606--;7. According to his expense account, Carrington claimed a quarter's pay beginning April 1, 1788, which apparently included travel time from Virginia. Continental Congress Papers, Vi.

Cyrus Griffin to Thoams FitzSimons

My dear sir N.Y. April 30, [1788] I have at length gotten two hundred dollars in Philadelphia bank notes which I do myself the pleasure to enclose. I fear they will not answer the balance advanced by you, but what shall remain I will procure the next week---;with many thanks for all your kindness and freindship to us. I shall endeavor to meet my family upon the road, but at what place is very uncertain, that depending upon the adjournment of Congress on Friday or Saturday. I fear they will leave Phila, but badly equipped, but really I could not help it---;a line by the post on Friday would be very acceptable. A paper of today enclosed. With my affect & best respects, I am Dear Sir, Your most obedt. servant, C Griffin RC (PHi: Gratz Members of Congress Collection).

Thomas Tudor Tucker to St. George Tucker

My ever dear Brother New York May 2d. 1788 As it may be of some Consequence in your Arrangements with respect to your Sons, I must inform you that Dr. Johnson is gone to the Eastward & will not return for several Weeks, probably not until the End of this Month.(1) I have nothing to add upon this Subject until I hear from you again. Shou'd farther Information than what I have communicated, be necessary, you will be so good as to let me know, & I will be as particular as possible in obtaining it. Whilst writing the above I receiv'd Letters from our dear Friends in Bermuda by J. Tucker Junr. Son of Mr. J. Tucker of Somerset. Our good Mother & Sister Bot[h] had bad Colds, but the rest of the Families were well. They had heard of your late Misfortune for which they

Page 85

May 3, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

express great Afflixion & Sympathy, & desire to be tenderly remember'd to yourself, the Children & the three young Gentlemen. It is said that Maryland has already adopted the new Constitution by a very great Majority, but the official Accounts have not yet reach'd us. We have a Letter from the Governor of Rhode Island informing of the Proceedings of that State upon the Business & it's Rejection, which you have seen in the public Prints. They alledge that the Singularity of their Mode proceeded from no Disrespect either to the general Convention or to Congress but from a Regard to pure republican Principles. I understand that in your State there is a clear Majority of the Delegates Friends to the new System. I suspect the same will be true of both the Carolinas, so that we shall have an Opportunity of seeing what wonderful Effects will be wrought. Except Rhode Island there is no State but this that seems at all doubtful of accepting the Constitution, & I even am inclined to think it will pass here, but not by any considerable Majority. The Federalists (as they style themselves) have been extreamly busy in endeavouring to swell their Number of Votes as much as possible in this City, not for the sake of carrying their Election (for of that they were perfectly secure by a vast Majority) but to make it appear, if possible, that a Majority of the Inhabitants of the State are federal. I believe that a great Number have been encouraged to vote who are either Citizens of other States or not Citizens at all. But this will make no Odds except in Appearances. Will my good Friends Richard & Theodorick excuse me at present for neglecting to write. I am a little busy. My best regards to them, to Johny & the rest of my young Friends &c. I am, My dearest Brother, Yr. most truly affect. Thos Tud. Tucker RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Papers). 1 For these "Arrangements," see Tucker's second letter to his brother of April 17, note 3.

Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon

Dear Sir New York May 3d 1788. I am honored with your obliging favor of the 14th ultimo and most heartily Sympathize with the good Citizens of your place in their present depressed situation; but at the same time rejoice with you in the hope of relief under the new System of government. The flame of opposition enkindled by the adjournment of our Convention is daily decreasing and the prospect of a general adoption begins to brighten. The enclosed paper announces the ratification by a large Majority of the Convention of Maryland; which is confirmed by

Page 86

May 3, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

authentic letters from a number of Gentlemen. The federal ticket for members to represent this City in Convention is carryed by a very large Majority; and accounts of several Elections in the neighbouring Counties (that have come to hand) are much more favourable than was generally expected. The latest accounts from Virginia are favourable. Pennsylvania is in a State of tranquility and the general opposition seems to be once more on the decline. The State of Georgia has made a large Cession of Western lands to the United States on condition that the new System is adopted and that they be allowed thirty thousand dollars for expences in defending that Country.(1) In haste, I have the Honor to be, with the greatest Respect and Esteem, Dear Sir, your Most Obedient Servant, N. Gilman P.S. All the bells in this City are now ringing to Celebrate the news from Maryland. RC (Capt. J. G. M. Stone, Annapolis, Md., 1973). 1 This Georgia act of cession was not actually laid before Congress until May 29, perhaps because the state was not fully represented until May 26 when William Few joined his colleague Abraham Baldwin. See PCC, item 76, fols. 290--;302; and JCC, 34:179. Their motion for congressional acceptance of the cession with the conditions contained in the Georgia Act was immediately referred to a committee which submitted a report on July 9 that was read on July 14 and adopted the following day, when Congress rejected Georgia's conditions and specified those under which it would accept a new cession. JCC, 34:188, 320--;26.

Charles Thomson to the States

Sr. Circular to the other states(1) [May 3, 1788] I have the honor to transmit to yr. Excy herewith enclosed to be laid before yr Legislature a state of the representation in Congress for the Months of March & April(2), & am With the greatest respect yr Exy's &c LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). 1 That is, other than Rhode Island and North Carolina. To his letters to the governors of those states, Thomson added the following opening sentences acknowledging letters that he had recently received from them. To Gov. John Collins of Rhode Island he wrote: "I have the honor to inform you that your Letter of the 5 of April with the papers enclosed has been rec'd & communicated to Congress." To Gov. Samuel Johnston of North Carolina: "I have rec'd. & communicated to Congress the Letters you did me the honor to write to me on the 19 of March last." And to both he lamented that he was "sorry to observe that during the course of the present federal year your State has hitherto been unrepresented." PCC, item 18B, fol. 145.

Page 87

May 3, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Paine Wingate to John Sullivan

Sir New York May 3d. 1788 By the last post I received a letter from a friend of mine dated Baltimore April 26, informing me that the convention of Maryland had that day ratifyed the new constitution---;yeas 63, nays 11 only. This intelligence, so agreeable to your Excellency's wishes, I have taken the first opportunity of communicating. The state of New York have this week had their elections for delegates to their convention. In this city the votes are generally in favor of federalists, and it is said that they are so in other counties beyond expectation. It is now the opinion of those who are well acquainted with the sentiments of the people thro' the state that the probability is in favor of adopting the constitution here. The latest accounts from Virginia are, that from the returns of the delegates, which are now generally made, a majority will be for the new government. South Carolina does not seem to be doubted. Upon the whole the encouragement of having a peaceable & good government soon established is dayly encreasing.(1) I hope we shall not be disappointed. Georgia have made a considerable cession to the united states of their Western lands upon condition that the new constitution shall be adopted & that they be allowed thirty thousand dollars for their expences in defending that territory during the late war. We have not had a congress until yesterday for some time past, owing to two or three members going out of Town.(2) Other members are expected on dayly. There have been no very material dispatches to Congress since I wrote to your Excellency last. I have the honor to be with the most respectful esteem your Excellency's most obedient and humble Servant, Paine Wingate P.S. Mr. Gilman desires his most respectful compliments. RC (Nh--;Ar: State Papers, Revolutionary Correspondence). 1 Wingate also reported recent ratification news to his friend John Wendell in a letter of May 5, from which the following extract was printed in The Collector, 63 (December 1950): No. D2337. "I shall also enclose a newspaper by which you will See the determination of Maryland, and the [prosp]ect from Virginia, respecting the new [Con]stitution. This intelligence is confirmed by various letters. The elections in the State of New York are more favorable for the n[ew] plan than was generally expected, and there is dayly an increased probability of its being adopted. I hope we Shall not be disappointed, as I conceive that it is of the utmost importance in our present critical Situation." 2 Congress failed to muster a quorum between March 27 and May 2. See JCC, 34:114--;19.

Page 88

May 5, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Cyrus Griffin to James Madison

My dear Sir May 5th. [1788] I have the pleasure to enclose you a letter from Petersburg(1) ---; and the newspaper of today---;tho very uninteresting. Maryland has acceded to the proposed Constitution by a great majority. Chase, Paca, Martin, and Mercer oppossed it with their utmost vigor and abilities, but with decency. South Carolina will adopt the system very soon. The opposition in Virginia is much to be lamented and in N. york also---;however from the present appearance of things I rather incline to believe that in the course of 12 months we shall have the Government in operation---;yet I am not so sanguine as Hamilton or Gen. Knox. From the aspect of matters abroad I fancy the war in Europe will be conducted with great energy and desolation---;Russia and the Emperor would wish to demolish his Ottoman Majesty. A whisper circulates in Paris that all the french officers in the Turkish service are ordered to quit those dominions, which does not carry the appearance of aid---;but if France should think proper to take a decided part in the Contest Mr. Neckar will be brought again into the finances, of course the united states will not profit by the war, for that great man is unquestionably---;not our best friend. Once more we are going on with the business of Congress---; but have finished nothing of consequence. Consider me as a very affect. friend and with much esteem, Your obedient Servant, C Griffin [P.S.] With respect to Mr Paca I had my Information from the honble Colo Howard at Baltimore,(2) but I am told this moment that Paca advocated the system upon the general question tho he did not consider it as the best that could be devised. C G. RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 Not identified. 2 That is, John Eager Howard.

James R. Reid to Peter Muhlenburg

Sir, Philadelphia, 5th May, 1788. I am under the necessity of applying for a draught on your treasury, there is a considerable sum due me, and as it is a custom with other States to be three months in advance with their Delegates, I presume Pennsylvania are not less disposed to accommodate their delegates than any State in the Union, and therefore beg leave to ask for five months pay or £350 on account.(1)

Page 89

May 8, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

I am very respectfully, your obedient Servant, James R. Reid [P.S.] I need not mention the State of the paper money, nor do I expect to draw the money bad as it is but can make such use of the order as will answer present purposes. N.B. Mr. Nicholson is going abroad.(2) MS not found; reprinted from Pa. Archives, 1st ser. 11:280. Addressed: "The Honble Peter Muhlenberg, Esqr., Vice President of Pennsylvania." 1 For the Pennsylvania Council's May 6 order to pay Reid "three hundred and fifty pounds, in advance, for his pay as a Delegate," see Pa. Council Minutes, 15:449. 2 That is, Pennsylvania comptroller general John Nicholson.

John Brown to James Breckinridge

Dear Breckinridge May 8th. 1788 I wrote you lately(1) consequently have little either of a public or private nature to communicate at present. We have not till yesterday(2) made a Congress for a month past of course have made no further progress in the Kentucky Business. I begin to grow quite impatient upon this head & almost dispair of obtaining a determination in time to attend the District Court in June an object which I have much at heart & in which my private Interest & that of my Clients is much concerned. Have recd letters from Kentucky dated 4th April(3) expressing the greatest anxiety to know the event of their Application. Should it be rejected I believe they will immediately revolt from the Union---;a measure ultimately fraught with ruin to the Atlantic States & which they ought carefully to gard against by indulging them with every consiliatory plan. But alas too many here are governed in their determinations by the contracted policy of the present hour & cannot extend their views to future events which will inevitably proceed from such misguided measures. My dear Sir continue to habituate yourself to generous Sentiments & enlarged Views of things---;a liberal mind is one of heavens greatest Blessings---;the reverse is a Curse imposed upon too many in this great Council of the Nation. Live content & happy & write me fully your present Studies & when you leave WmBurg, &c in haste Adieu, J Brown RC (ViU: Breckinridge Papers in the collections of the Albemarle County Historical Society). 1 Brown's April 11 letter to Breckinridge is the latest one found. 2 Actually May 2. See JCC, 34:119. 3 One of these letters of April 4 was from Kentucky district attorney general Harry Innes (1752--;1816), who had moved to Danville in 1785 and actively promoted Kentucky statehood, though he opposed ratification of the federal constitution. Highly critical of the treatment accorded Kentucky by Congress since his arrival, Innes first

Page 90

May 8, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

lamented "that our application relative to the seperation [from Virginia] is so long suspended." But he quickly turned his letter into a catalog of death and destruction from marauding Indians who did not consider Kentuckians to be "a part of the thirteen fires" and charged that Congress failed to heed Kentucky's repeated appeals for protection. Indeed, the federal troops on the Ohio under Col. Josiah Harmar "never were intended for our protection, but to prevent Settlements on the Foedral lands." What was worse to Kentuckians, moreover, was the attempt of a majority of the states in 1786 "to barter away the Navigation of the Mississippi, our unalienable right. . .for a term that few of us would live to see expire." Innes concluded that "the District of Kentucky as a part of the United States is entitled to protection---;it hath been asked for---;in a constitutional manner---; but hath it been granted---;no it hath not. The reverse hath taken place---;restriction upon restriction." He well knew how his letter to a member of Congress could be interpreted---;"that those expressions which are construed into threats" could give rise "to the Idea of a revolt." Innes Papers, DLC.

Cyrus Griffin to Certain States

Sir New York May 8 1788. I do myself the honor of transmitting to your Excellency a Resolution of Congress upon the subject of the Delegation. Most ardently do I wish and request that the Gentlemen from your State would attend upon the national business, and particularly at this interesting period. I have the honor to be Sir with profound Respect & regard, Your Excellency's Most Obedient Servant, C Griffin

E N C L O S U R E

Resolved, As the sense of Congress that the President write to the Governors of the States not now represented urging them to send forward their respective Delegates, as business of the utmost importance to the Union is delayed for the want of an adequate representation.(1) C G RC (InHi: Mitten Collection). Addressed: "His Excellency The Governor of Georgia, Augusta." 1 No such resolution is found on the journals of Congress. As Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, and North Carolina were also not represented at this time (see Appendix, p. 542), Griffin may have sent the same letter to the governors of the first named states; that to Gov. Samuel Johnston of North Carolina is in N. C. State Records, 21:471. There are no Griffin letters in the presidential letterbooks in the PCC (item 16).

Samuel A. Otis to Benjamin Lincoln

Dear Sir New York 8th May 1788 I have been pretty much taken up with variety of attentions, & noth-

Page 91

May 8, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

ing of importance having taken place except what was in the papers, I have much against my inclination, defered replying to your last of . But I assure you nothing on my part shall be wanting to cultivate a correspondence which at once gratifies my vanity, & promises me improvement. Congress have not been idle, altho they have been so interrupted by the appointment of its members to Convention, in one place & another that much less has been effected than could be wished. It was however the general, & invariable opinion that it would be more expedient that Congress should continue in session, during this uncertain & agitated year, even if nothing very important was effected, Than to leave the States without any bond of Union, or even the semblance of a fŒderal Government. Indeed the frequent returns of the states who have been wise enough to adopt the new Constitution, renders it amongst other things expedient that Congress should continue in sessions. Maryland ratification is now reading, And I have no doubt we shall soon have that of So Carolina. I presume from what intelligence is stiring that No. Carolina will follow the lead of Verginia where the opposition has gained no ground of late, & will be weakened by the unanimity of Maryland. Verginia remains doubtful however---;yet I can hardly suppose She will refuse to adopt, as I am informed, upon the plan of Massachusetts. N. York are nearly equally divided. The fŒderalists are very positive, so are the opposition. Govr. Clinton is pitted at all events against it & indeed it is with him a very great stake; for if he is in the minority upon this question I think he must lose his election. The supporters of the measure are however powerful. The City almost unanimously, & all the commercial interest, The Schylers & great proprietors, a large number of farmers &c. Clintons friends pushed him very injudiciously for the City. What is our omen of success in my view is, that the most steady opposers in this quarter begin to dispair, and say it must be adopted with amendments. I hear a suggestion that N. York opposers have no hope of rejection, but only hold up a good countenance, in order to effect amendments, upon the Massachusetts plan. Upon the whole I recollect no period at which the prospect looked more bright than the present. I can form no judgment of N Hamsh. Their adjournment into the Wilderness augurs ill, but Langdon & Sullivan, the great leaders are both agreed in fŒderal measures, altho I presume their cordiality is not very perfect in other points. R Island will be overwhelmed with argument & influence, and their own minority exerting, I think may be brot to their senses. I exceedingly rejoice at the unanimity of Massachusetts & congratulate her upon the honor she is about to acquire, in her elections. The people who are united in electing a Governor, a Lieut Governour(1) , & Senate, who have evinced steady measures & good policy, can hardly fail of making a good election of Representatives.

Page 92

May 8, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

I am informed you have taken my more than orphaned neice under your wing. To that humane benevolent disposition which your friends may recognize without flattery, You have the tenderness of a father inducing your protection of one, very dear to your valuable servt my much regreted friend---;Of whom I never think but my heart sickens. But the lenient hand of time, by the wise appointment of Providence, when nothing else will, heals in some measure the cruel wounds of affliction; And because our duty to ourselves, to our families, & to the world, require attention, & the discharge of social offices, having paid our respectful tribute of a tear to the deceased, we ought to turn our attention to survivours. Make my kind remembrances to my niece, to your amiable Lady & all friends, & permit me to subscribe, Your assured friend & most huml Sert, Sam. A. Otis RC (MeHi: Fogg Collection). 1 For the recent elections of federalists John Hancock as governor and Lincoln as lieutenant governor of Massachusetts, see Otis to James Warren, April 26. Hancock was elected in a landslide over Elbridge Gerry, but Lincoln had been engaged in a three-way race against Samuel Adams and James Warren, whom he defeated 48% to 17% to 29%, but failing to obtain a clear majority had to await the result of a final determination by the legislature.

Virginia Delegates to Edmund Randolph

Sir, New York May 8 1788 Until a few days ago there has not been a Congress for taking into consideration your Excellencies letter of the 13th of March requesting a prolongation of the time allowed for rendering the Accounts of the State against the U.S. to the district commissioner.(1) We took the earliest opportunity to lay this letter before Congress---;it was referred to the Board of Treasury, whose report thereupon we have now the Honor to enclose. This report expressly liberates the State Commissioner from the duty of restating the Accounts under the heads directed on the part of the United States. He is clearly at liberty to render them in the forms in which they have been kept, and the re- statements, if any such are necessary, must be made by the district Commissioner. As your Excellencies letter stated no facts upon which Congress could found an opinion that an extension of the time would be necessary from any other circumstance, and as no application of the kind, has been made by any other State, it was thought best by that Body to concur with the Board in refusing the request of Virginia, permitting the delegation to transmit the report to your Excellency for your more full information.

Page 93

May 10, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

We beg leave to recommend that the Commissioner on the part of the State immediately tender the Accounts to the district commissioner in their original forms, if he has not time to re-state them, & should this produce a difficulty let that arise with the adverse party. Should there be any particular facts or circumstances putting it out of the power of the States Commissioner to render the Accounts according to this advice, it will be well for him to state them fully to your Excellency, to be transmitted to Congress, where we will endeavour to make them a ground for obtaining such extension of the time as you may think it necessary to ask for.(2) We have the Honor to be, with the greatest respect, Your Excellencies Most Obt. Servts., Ed. Carrington J Brown C Griffin RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). Written by Carrington and signed by Carrington, Brown, and Griffin. 1 For Governor Randolph's March 13 request, see Virginia Delegates to Randolph, April 3, note. 2 For commissioner Andrew Dunscomb's lengthy justification of a deadline extension for Virginia and the reversal of the board of treasury's negative response to the governor's initial appeal, see Edward Carrington to Randolph, June 9, 19 ,

Page

and 25.

LINK TO ANNALS

Nathan Dane to Samuel Adams

Dear Sir, New York May 10. 1788. Yesterday were sent to me inclosed---;the inclosed pamphlet and printed letter(1) with a request to convey them to you, which I do myself the honor to transmit accordingly. So far as my information extends the sentiments expressed by this writer, very generally meet the approbation of those who aim at Just and uncorrupt Government on republican principles---;nor do I perceive any thing in this publication in the least inconsistent with the determination of the Massa. Convention---;a determination, in my opinion, by far the wisest & best that has been made on the Subject---;for tho the situation of the Country made it prudent to adopt the Constitution, and put it into operation; yet, clear I am, that we ought not to relax a moment in our attention and vigilance for further guarding and checking the exercise of powers given by the Constitution, and for securing the liberties of America, and an honest administration of Government on known and certain principles. My fears and apprehensions do not arise altogether from a consideration of the faults in the new Constitution, but, in a consider-

Page 94

May 10, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

able measure, from a full persuasion that we have many men, and able ones too, in this Country, who have a disposition to make a bad use of any government, and who, if not well checked and restrained by the forms of the Government, will, so far as they can have influence produce a wicked and corrupt administration---;and you may, Sir, be assured that the jealous advocates for the adoption of this Constitution, and who are pretty numerous, artful and active, do not intend that any amendments shall be adopted, even after the Constitution shall be put into operation, if they can any way prevent it---;at least they will oppose all amendments which, I believe, the republican and honest part of the Community will contend for---; however, I think the true Federalists, or true freinds of a genuine federal republic, are extending their influence and connections very considerably; and tho a large proportion of them considering our situation agree to adopt the system as presented, they are determined with candor and firmness, to endeavour to establish in these States governments on principles of freedom and equality---;whether the friends of honest measures---;or the friends of influence and corruption will succeed time only can determine. Sure I am, the former will have the support and advice of your self and many others who have steered the political ship through the late Storm. Eight States have now determined relative to the Constitution proposed. I can give you no certain information respecting the other five---;our accounts respecting the Sentiments of the men elected for the State Conventions are various---;but, on the whole, I am inclined to believe they will adopt with recommending amendments as in Massa. In this State, Virga. & N.C. the numbers for and agt. are pretty equal, as well as abilities. Your freind Mr. Lee I understand, declined going to the State Convention, principally, on account of the unhealthiness of the place where the Convention is to meet. I mentioned to you in my last the application of Kentucky for an admission into the union---;I am Just informed a gentleman has arrived in this place from Vermont, to make enquiries, &c respecting her admission into the Union. I understand the State has appointed a Committee and given them power to apply to Congress whenever they shall see a fair opportunity for again bringing under consideration the independance and admission of that state into the Union. I have been wishing for sometime that this subject might again be brought into veiw---;for I am well persuaded if these States do no[t] unite in their infancy, and cement the union, they will not do it hereafter. With sentiments of the highest esteem, I am, Sir, Your most obedt. humbl. servant, N. Dane RC (NN: Adams Papers). 1 Not identified.

Page 95

May 12, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

John Brown to James Madison

Dear Sir New York May 12th. 1788 I have had the honor to receive your favors of the 9th & 21st of April(1) for which accept my thanks. My hopes respecting the Success of the new Constitution in Virginia are in some measure revived by the information you have given me upon that Subject but am still sorry to find that the number of friends & foes are so nearly divided as to render the Vote of Kentucky of critical importance for I fear nothing friendly is to be expected from that quarter. I yesterday reced. letters from Colo. Muter & Mr Innes(2) who inform that it has few or no Supporters in that Country. Muter from a warm friend has become a violent enemy to the Plan & that upon general principles. They enclosed me a list of members chosen to represent that District in Convention & further advise that on the 1st Monday in April a Convention was to meet at Danville expressly to take into consideration the new Constitution & instruct & charge their representatives with the Sentiments of the District upon that Subject.(3) This measure almost precludes all hope that any good effect will result from a communication of my Sentiments to their Delegates, as I am apprehensive that they will conceive themselves religiously bound to observe Instructions framed & given with such Solemnity. However as I am personally acquainted with the Men & fully possess their confidence I shall at all events hazard the Attempt. I have not of late been able to discover any great change in the Sentiments of the people of this State with respect to the New Government. Both parties appear equally confident & have equal expectations from Virginia. Their Elections for Convention are over but the returns are not yet made known. I believe Federalists only are elected for this City. We have done very little in Congress since you left us---;Nine States have not appeared since that time & for a month previous to Tuesday last we could not even muster Seven; Nine are again shortly expected upon the floor, as soon as this is the case I shall endeavour to obtain the Determination of Congress upon the Kentucky Application. I flatter myself that it will be in favor `tho' still have great reason to fear the effects of Eastern Jealousy. My Anxiety upon this Subject daily increases, should not a dete[r]mination be had before the expiration of the Act of Seperation---;or should Congress refuse to grant this request; in either case I fear the consequences may be unfavorable to the Union especially as that District entertains such prejudices against the New Constitution which I hope & believe will be adopted. Let the event of their application be what it may I am convinc'd they will proceed in establishing their Independence. They have already chosen

Page 96

May 12, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Delegates to meet in Convention at Danville about the last of July to form a Constitution.(4) The future prosperity & tranquility of that Country greatly depends upon the Success of this important undertaking & I fear that few will be found in that Body who have Sufficiently attended to political Subjects to quallify them for the task of framing a good System of Government for that District. There is also reason to apprehend that certain partialities & prejudices will operate against a Judicious Selection from the Constitutions of the different States. Some of the most respectable Characters in that Country aware of those difficulties have expressed to me their wish that you could be prevailed upon to draw up a plan of Government for that District to be laid before their Convention---;assureing that from the great confidence they place in your integrity & abilities there is every reason to believe that it would be adopted in toto. Will you pardon me for adding my request to their wishes? I am sensible of the impropriety of this application at a time when you are engaged in important Business---;let my anxiety to promote the happiness of a flourishing Country in which I propose to spend my life plead my excuse.(5) I send you enclosed the Statements(6) you required & shall at all times be happy in being favord with your commands should my Services in this quarter be of use to you. I am with esteem & respect, Dr. Sir Yo. Mo. Hble Servt., J. Brown P.S. Mrs. Elsworth desires to be rememberd to you also Mrs. Harman who is now a Widdow.(7) RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 For Madison's letter of April 9, see Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:16--;17; that of April 21 has not been found. 2 These letters from George Muter and Harry Innes have not been found, but for an April 4 letter from Innes, see Brown to James Breckinridge, May 8, note 2. 3 Innes, Muter and six other members of the "court" faction in Kentucky had sent open letters to the courts of Fayette and Mercer counties on February 29 denouncing the proposed Constitution, arguing that a new federal government would abandon the right to navigate the Mississippi, and calling for a special convention to instruct the 14 Kentucky delegates to the Virginia ratifying convention to be held in Richmond in June. See Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 8:433--;36. Because most of the delegates elected from Kentucky were antifederalists, the special convention became unnecessary. For the reception of the Constitution in Kentucky, see Patricia Watlington, The Partisan Spirit: Kentucky Politics, 1779--;1792 (New York: Atheneum, 1972), pp. 147--;56; Lowell H. Harrison, Kentucky's Road to Statehood (Lexington: University Press of Kentucky, 1992), pp. 57--;61; and Thomas D. Matijasic, "Antifederalism in Kentucky," Filson Club Historical Quarterly 66 (January 1992): 36--;59. 4 Kentucky's constitutional convention of July 28 was aborted when word arrived of Congress' rejection of its application for statehood, for which see Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson, November 10, 1787, note 3; and Harrison, Kentucky's Road to Statehood, pp. 62--;65. 5 Madison's busy schedule and attendance at the Virginia ratifying convention prevented his compliance with this request, but in the fall he furnished Brown with observations on Thomas Jefferson's 1783 draft constitution for Virginia, for which see Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:59--;60, 266--;67, 280--;93. For the considerations on a frame of

Page 97

May 12, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

government for Kentucky that Madison sent to Caleb Wallace in 1785, see ibid., 8:350--;57. 6 Not found, but for these "full statements of the foreign & domestic debts" see Edward Carrington to Madison, May 28, note 2. A single-page "General Statement of the Foreign Debt of the United States of America" [$10,271,561], in the hand of Joseph Nourse and dated May 6, 1788, is in the Peter Force Miscellany, DLC. 7 Madison had boarded at the house of Vandine Elsworth, 19 Maiden Lane, while attending Congress in New York. See Madison, Papers (Rutland), 9:260n.2.

Cyrus Griffin to James Madison

My dear sir N. York May [12? 1788](1) According to your directions I shall pay the proper regard to the particulars mentioned in [your] letter of April 20th.(2) Mr Paradise was embarked before that letter got to hand---;and carried with him all the debates, pamphlets &c to Mr. Jefferson. I will enclose to you the Massachusets debates by the first opportunity to Richmond.(3) Be so good to inform me when you will set out to Richmond that I may direct my letters accordingly. The packets brought no Intelligence of any moment---;the whole was retailed in the news-papers---;tho I supposed Mr Jefferson's letters to you might have contained more than his short one to Congress.(4) Nothing is talked of in London but the Trial of Mr Hastings---; the proofs are so strong against him, and the oratory of Mr Burke so potent that in all probability he must suffer. The Dauphin still continues very ill. The marchioness received your Comts. with great pleasure---; she & the Count most cordially return them. The lady has procured a negroe Girl, and only wants a Boy in order that they may breed to use her own language. Only seven states yet---;certainly this week we shall have nine. I am dear Sir with great respect & esteem, your affect. humble servant, C Griffin RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 Although Griffin omitted the day of the month, he wrote to Madison on Mondays weekly or biweekly from March 17 to May 26, including known letters of May 5 and 19. 2 Not found. 3 That is, the Debates, Resolutions and Other Proceedings of the Convention of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Convened at Boston on the 9th of January, 1788, for the Purpose of Amending and Ratifying the Constitution (Boston: Adams and Nourse, 1788), for which see Evans, Am. Bibliography, no. 21,242. 4 Griffin is apparently referring to Thomas Jefferson's February 5 letter to Congress which John Jay had submitted on April 18 along with a lengthier letter of December 31, both of which were read on May 2. See PCC, item 78, 2:47-49, item 185, 4:30; and Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:479-83, 563-65.

Page 98

May 12, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Charles Thomson to the States

Sir, Circular to the States Office of Secy of Congress, May 12. 1788. Congress anxious to bring to a close the public accounts as far as they relate to the late quarter master, commissary's, hospital, marine & cloathing departments, have passed the resolutions, which I have the honor to transmit to your Exy herewith enclosed.(1) As the order to the Commissioners to commence suits may affect some of the citizens of your State, I have to request that your exy will be pleased to cause it to be published for the information of all concerned. With great respect, I have the honor to be, Your Exys h s LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). 1 For the enclosed May 8 resolutions, see JCC, 34:147--;48. See also Thomson to the States, May 26; and these Letters, 23:181n.1, 233n.4.

John Brown to James Breckinridge

Dear Breckinridge New York May 14th. 1788 I recd. your letter containing the agreeable intilligence that my dear friend J. Smith had returned in safety from the Western Country. My anxiety on his behalf has been great---;am also happy to hear that he has been successfull in accomplishing his Business. I wish he may acquit himself of the Contract he entered into last fall with Credit & Profit. He ought to be very particular in his Rects. or discharges. He has not yet written to me, am in daily expectation of receiving a letter from him which will certainly contain something interesting & amusing to me. Am sorry to find that New Constitution is still in great Jeopardy in Virga. The event is doubtful in S. Carolina. Anarchy will be the Consequence if it is rejected. 'Tis with great difficulty that we can keep the Old Machine in Motion---;without the prospect of the adoption of the new it would be impossible. We have not yet been able to parade nine States---;therefore have done nothing for Kentucky---;cannot think myself Justifiable in returning without---;must give up the Idea of being in Kentucky at June Court---;shall stay here 'till August---;therefore write on. I enjoy great health & am very happy---;having heard that my Business is going on Smoothly in Kentuckey. Shall pay Boston a Visit before I return. Have you heard any thing from Brother James. Adieu in great haste Yours, J Brown RC (ViU: Breckinridge Papers in the collections of the Albemarle County Historical Society).

Page 99

May 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson

My dear Sir, New York May 14. 1788 Mr. Barlow of Connecticut(1) will have the Honor to call on you with this letter. I have not the pleasure of a personal acquaintance with him, but his literary Talents have considerably distinguished him as a poetical as well as prose writer, and he is introduced to me as a Gentleman deserving your countenance. Permit me to reccommend him to your attention and civilities. He conducts to the Marquis de La Fayette, the Eldest son of our illustrious Friend Genl. Greene(2), who is sent at the particular request of that Noble Man, to receive his education under his direction in France. I have given the little Fellow a few lines to you and directed him to deliver them in person, it is unnecessary for me to solicit for him the attention of one who so well knew his Father. I had the pleasure to write you pretty fully on the 25th Ult.(3) by Mr. Paradise, since which no event has taken place except the adoption of the Constitution in Maryland, by a Majority of 63 against 11. South Carolina is now sitting, and the general countenance of intelligence from thence, is much in favor of the Measure. There seems to be no doubt entertained of an adoption by a considerable Majority. Should this be the case it will give eight States. Virginia being the next to set, will meet under very critic[al] circumstances, because upon her decision will, in my opinion, depend, not the fate of the Measure, but whether some degree of convulsion shall, or shall not, attend its Maturation. It will have gone too far to be retracted, and even Virginia herself, should she in the first instance reject, must afterwards come in. Indeed New Hampshire will certainly accede when she re-assembles, and compleate the Nine for giving action to the project, but a decision in the Negative in Virga. would, in one moment, give additional life to the Minority in Pensylvania, whose opposition has taken a stubborn stand, and the appeal may in that quarter, be to the sword, nor will I venture a conjecture upon the effect such an effort there, will have amongst the opposers in Virginia. I hope, however, that the possibility of a calamity of this sort, will have its effect on some of the more wise in the opposition, and incline them to adopt rather than run such a hazard. Should Virga. adopt, we shall at once, have a Government, the issue of a thorough revolution, without the violent means which have uniformly been requisite for the like events elsewhere. I pray God we may exhibit to the world this instance of our superior wisdom & benevolence. I do myself the pleasure to send you by Mr. Barlow a volume containing a Number of Periodical papers which have been written in this City upon the occasion of the Constitution. They are written, it is sup-

Page 100

May 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

posed, by Messrs. Madison, Jay & Hamilton. The Numbers run to as many more, the remainder are to form a second Vol. which will be published in a few weeks, & I will do myself the pleasure to send it to you as soon as it is done.(4) Mr. Madison, in a letter which he wrote me a few days ago,(5) requested me to obtain the first & second volumes of the Philosophical Transactions of the society in Philada. & forward them to you. Upon enquiry I find that the 1st Vol. is not in print having been destroyed during the War. The second, I have got the favor of Mr. Barlow to take with him for you. I am told the 1st is to be reprinted. When it is done we will take care to forward it to you. During Mr. Madisons absence in Virginia I am aware of your dependance upon me for regular information upon the progress of the business of the constitution and shall omit no opportunity of writing. I have the Honor to be, My dr. sir with the most sincere regard, Yr. Friend & Hl St., Ed. Carrington RC (DLC: Jefferson Papers). 1 That is, Joel Barlow (1754--;1812), poet and author of The Vision of Columbus (1787), who sailed for Europe on May 25 as agent for the Scioto Company. The land venture soon failed, but he remained abroad for 17 years continuing to publish and serving as consul to Algiers. DAB. 2 That is, George Washington Greene, the oldest of Gen. Nathanael Greene's five children, for whom Carrington also wrote Jefferson the following letter of introduction on May 17. "My particular Friend Master George Washington Greene will have the Honor to deliver you this letter. Your acquaintance with his illustrious Father renders it unnecessary for me to solicit for him your Attention & Countenance. He is sent to France at the age of about 12 years, to be educated under the direction of the Marquis De La Fayette." Jefferson Papers, DLC. 3 Actually, April 24. 4 Barlow carried with him the first volume of The Federalist, which had been published in New York on March 22. The second volume was published on May 28 and was forwarded to Jefferson by Carrington on August 10. See Evans, Am. Bibliography, no. 21,127; and Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 16:466--;71. 5 Not found.

Charles Thomson's Memorandum Book

[May 14--;30, 1788] May 14th. transmitted to the Office for foreign Affairs Letters---;from Mr Adams---; Decr. 11th. 1787---;enclosing Mr. P. Millers paper of experiments in Navigation. Novr. 30th, 1787, Decr. 16th, 1787.(1) Letters---;from Mr Jefferson---; Decr. 21st, 1787

Page 101

May 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Decr. 31st, 1787, with Arret of King of France &c. Feby. 5th, 1788.(2) Letter---;March 4th, 1788, from Mr Barclay recommg Novr. 10th, 1787, from Dr Franklin Mr Bonfield(3) Pamphlet from Colignon---;for extirpating misery of society.(4) Letter---;March 25th, 1788, Mayor of N York, & copy of Alderman's Letter, on the subject of Mr Van Berckel's complaint.(5) Letter---;March 3d, 1788, from John M Pintard.(6) Letters from Mr Dumas---; Novr. 14th & 27th, 1787 Decr. 4th, 18 & 21st, do. with translations.(7) Transmitted to the Office for foreign Affairs April 24th, 1787 Letter---;June 3d, 1785, from O. Pollock(8) ---; observations respecting the Island of Cuba. May 24th. Transmitted to the Office for foreign Affairs to be filed (see rect.) Letter---;March 16th, 1788 from Mr Jefferson.(9) Letter---;April 24th, 1788 from Mr Gardoqui & Letter from his Catholic Majesty.(10) Letter---;March 11th, 1788 from the Prince of Orange on Mr Adams taking leave.(11) 27th.Transmitted to the Board of Treasury letter from Genl Harmar July 7th, 1787, respecting contracts with Turnbull, Marmie & Co. to be returned(12) 29th.Transmitted to the Office for foreign Affairs, agreeably to order May 27th, 1788---;papers relating to Francis Cazeaus claims(13)---;returned from the Board of Treasury---;filed there May 19th, 1786 (vid Commee. book) Numbered from 1 to 13. Mems. & Pets. from 1 to 10 inclusive(14) No. 11. letter April 13th, 1784 from S.I. of finance enclosing letter from Compr. April 8th, 1784 & report of Auditor---;copies.(15) N. 12. Report of Board of treasury.(16) N.13. Report Wm. Barber---;Commr. of State of NY.(17) 30th. Transmitted to the Office for forn. Affairs to be filed Letter---;March 26th, 1788---;from Mr Adams.(18) Letter---;March 13th, 1788---;from Mr Jefferson. March 16th, do. do.(19) Letter---;March 18th, 1788---;from Mr Short.(20) Letters---;Jany. 22d & Feby. 22d [i.e., 2d], 1788---;from Mr Dumas.(21) MS (DNA: PCC, item 187). In the hand of Roger Alden. A continuation of Thomson's Memorandum Book, April 2--;17, 1788.

Page 102

May 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

1 These John Adams letters to John Jay are in PCC, item 84, 6:575--;94; and Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 2:817--;26. 2 For these Thomas Jefferson letters, see Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:447--;49, 479--;83, 563--;65. 3 These letters from Thomas Barclay and Benjamin Franklin recommending John Bondfield are in PCC, item 91, fols. 447--;48, item 82, 3:281--;82. 4 Undoubtedly Claude Boniface Collignon's L'avant-coureur du Changement du monde entire par l'aisance, la bonne éducation & la prospérité générale de tous les hommes; ou, Prospectus d'un mémoire patriotique, sur les causes de la grande misère qui existe par-tout, & sur les moyens de l'extirper radicalement (London, 1786). 5 For Mayor James Duane's letter and the documents concerning Pieter Johan van Berckel's "complaint" submitted to Congress by John Jay on March 24, see PCC, item 80, 3:376--;405; and JCC, 34:109--;11. For the letter of the Alderman, John Wylley, see also JCC, 34:128. 6 Not in the PCC. 7 For these letters from Charles W. F. Dumas to John Jay, see PCC, item 93, 3:315--;39; and Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 3:597--;605. 8 This Oliver Pollock letter to John Jay is in PCC, item 50, fols. 481--;84. 9 See Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:671--;76. 10 For these letters from Diego de Gardoqui and Charles III, see PCC, item 97, fols. 218--;20, 270--;72. 11 This letter from William V to Congress is in PCC, item 59, 4:379--;81. 12 Josiah Harmar's letter is in PCC, item 150, 2:477--;84. 13 See JCC, 34:184; and Thomson's Memorandum Book, July 7--;28, 1788, note 2. 14 Not identified, but for the papers related to Francis Cazeau's claim that were delivered to the board of treasury February 25, 1785, see PCC Miscellaneous Papers, M332, reel 9, fols. 169--;70. 15 These documents of Robert Morris, James Milligan, and John D. Mercier are in PCC, item 137, 3:507--;21. 16 For this August 29, 1785 report, see JCC, 29:671--;72. 17 Not identified. Following this entry concerning papers relating to Cazeau's claims, Alden wrote: "NB. These papers returned & transmitted to the Bd. of Treasury June 9th, 1788." 18 See PCC, item 84, 6:631--;33; and Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 2:833. 19 For these two Jefferson letters, see Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:661, 671--;76. 20 This letter from William Short to John Jay is in PCC, item 87, 2:73--;76. 21 There are actually two Dumas letters of January 22, and one of February 2, with a long postscript, in PCC, item 93, 4:7--;42. The translations printed in Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 3:605, 607--;8 include both of the former but only the postscript (improperly represented) of the latter.

Edward Carrington to William Short

My dear Sir, New York May 17. 1788 Mr. Barlow a Gentleman of Connecticut who is distinguished as a Man of literary Merit, and a Patriot, will do me the pleasure to deliver this letter.(1) May I solicit your Attention to him? The Eldest Son of our illustrious Friend General Greene attends him to be placed under the Care of the Marquis de La Fayette for his education---;for him I need

Page 103

May 18, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

not ask you any thing, you know the character of his Father & that is enough to ensure him your tenderest care and attention. I have enclosed to Mr. Jefferson a Pamplet containing a Number of papers written in this City upon the occasion of the Constitution which you will see.(2) I now inclose to you an address to the people of N. York lately published.(3) I also inclose you several papers---;you & Mr. Jefferson will doubtless exchange the reading of what is addressed to each. Mr. Barlow is upon the point of departure and therefore I must conclude with assurances of the great regard with which I am my dr. sir, Your sincere Friend & Hl St., Ed Carrington RC (DLC: Short Papers). 1 See Carrington to Thomas Jefferson, May 14, notes 1 and 2. 2 See ibid., note 4. 3 For John Jay's An Address to the People of the State of New- York, on the Subject of the Constitution (New York: Samuel and John Loudon, 1788), which was first published in April, see Evans, Am. Bibliography, no. 21,175. It was reprinted in The American Museum in June.

Samuel A. Otis to George Thatcher

My Dear Sir New York 18 March [i.e., May] 1788 . . . . I think I have not written you since the accession of Maryland to the new System(1) ---;the accounts are favorable from the South and unless Virginia does, I hardly apprehend a negative from the Southern States. Gore is here & goes for Philadelphia to morrow---;He is going to lay hold of some of our great ones, and will mak[e] O. I dance to the music of £3700---;sub rosa---;King & other friends frequently ask after you, But I dont let them know I have but once heard from you. After several applications to Greenleaf he has paid me ten pounds & 11d currency which wants your order. It was paid in paper and the difference between that & Specie is about seven pr Cent. In Congress we go on with seven States as usual, but I think nine are like to be upon the floor this week---;The most deficient State is New York,(2) which is very extraordinary. There is a Doctr Williamson arived who seems to have got with him from No Carolina a quantum of self consequence. Kentucki business I think must unavoidably be agitated this week---;Brown who by the way improves upon acquaintance is incessant in his application. The New England members with [will?] certainly be in opposition---;King tell me we are not empowered in his opinion, and if we were it is extremely improper in the present State of affairs. I find it is the general opinion that the New wheel will revolve---;N Carolina, our pompous brother Williamson thinks there will be no

Page 104

May 18, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

fear of, nor perhaps will there be of S C, and Virginia with all stateliness, will be very unwilling to stand alone; For N York will accede with the worst possible grace, I think she will be bullied into it. I think the people of Massachusetts, by what I have heard of their elections, are in a state of tollerable union & tranquility---;This rejoices me, because N England united, will forever counterpoise any cabals & manŒuvres of the South. . . . Yours very truly, Sam A Otis 20th May. So great a favor as yours of 9th can by no means pass unnoticed. I am glad you found all things well in Massachusetts. I think their elections shew they are in pretty good Temper. I am doubtful how it will go with Lincoln(3)---;Cochran & Gale were out of the question in the other days uproar, whether the[y] were fortunate eno[ugh] not to discover themselves or really innocent, is not easily to be determined. They however escaped censure. . . . Your most Huml Sert, Sam A Otis MS not found; reprinted from Historical Magazine, 2d ser. 6 (December 1869): 345--;46. 1 News of Maryland's ratification of the Constitution on April 26 was received by Congress May 8. See JCC, 34:149n; and PCC, item 70, fols. 557--;60. 2 New York's representation was the subject of the following letter between two of the state's delegates, Ezra L'Hommedieu to Leonard Gansevoort dated "Suffolk County May 15. 1788." "Last Evening I received your favour of the 24th of last Month in which you request me to releive you in your Attendance at New York. Had I received your letter Timely, I should have so arranged my Business as to have attended in your stead for the time for the Time you request: but at present it is impracticable for me to leave home before next month, and it is then probable I shall not be able to attend Congress. If I am elected to attend the Convention, I do not see how it will be possible for me to attend at New York next month except a few Days, & as I propose after the Convention to attend the proposed Treaty, in Case it should take place. I beleive it will be best to send on, or rather request Mr. Yates to take his seat, he having no public Business to divert him (as I know of) from the same. Mr. Gelston informed me about Ten Days ago that you proposed leaving New York the first of May but receiving no word from you I concluded there either would be a Representation of the State, or that so little Business was done, the same might be not necessary at present. I hope no Inconvenient [Inconvenience] will attend our States not being represented for a short Time, and am sure no blame will be laid to you for attending to your urgent Business at home after having been so long abroad." Gratz Collection, PHi. 3 See Otis to Benjamin Lincoln, May 8, note.

Cyrus Griffin to James Madison

My dear sir N. York May 19th. [1788] I am honored with your two letters of May 1 & 3.(1) Paradise was embarked---;and carried to Mr Jefferson the debates you mention, and other publications worth attention.

Page 105

May 21, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

I had all the boxes and packages brought to my house, have paid the freight and bonded the duties---;they shall be distributed as you direct. Some of the acorns, Sulla, and pease are deposited in my little garden. The box containing the greater part are gone forward to colonel Lewis. The piece of Information I have communicated to the delegates of South-Carolina as you desired. I will purchase the Mass. debates and send them in good time to meet you at Richmond.(2) We have heared lately from Mr. Adams---;he is greatly mortified at taking leave without the letters customary upon that occasion---;and still more distressed that Mr Smith is not continued at the Court of London in some capacity or other. He seems to think that the war will be general, but has given no reasons for that opinion. At the parting scene he was told by the King ["]that he wished always to cultivate a good understanding with the united states, and would amply comply with the Treaty whenever America manifested the same disposition." That the Courtiers jest very much upon our debelitated situation, but all seem to think that the new Constitution if adopted will place this Country upon a respectable foundation---;and untill that period arrives they can have no permanent Intercourse with us.(3) Accept the papers---;and believe me yours very affly., C. Griffin RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 Not found. 2 See Griffin to Madison, May 12, note 3. 3 John Jay transmitted John Adams' letters of February 14, 16, and 21 to Congress on May 13, and one of March 26 on May 22. See JCC, 34:153, 174--;75; PCC, item 185, 4:32--;33, item 84, 6:595--;631; and Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 2:827--;33.

Hugh Williamson to John Gray Blount

Dear sir New York 21. May 1788 From my Arrival in Philada. which was on the 11th Inst (for I came by Water from Portsmouth) I have been persecuted by a story that had been published in Martins Paper(1) & republished I think in every Paper from NC to this Place. Is it true that North Carolina is toren into factions? Are you generally governed by Mobs? and such other Questions were frequent and familiar. You know that in those Northern States which contain from 10 to 15 Counties each People think differently concerning the magnitude of a County from what we think in Carolina where a quarter nag might cross a County in half an Hour. General Caswells Name being among the federal Candidates rendered the Story as published by Martin the more exceptionable; the Story was so told as to induce the Belief that the Candidates were all

Page 106

May 21, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

present & had effected a Riot. In this State of Intelligence & being thoroughly chagrined by a Story so obviously calculated to injure a very respectable Character & with him to injure the general Character of the State I thought it my duty to prepare a Paragraph and cause it to be published which is thought by the Readers to put the Matter in a very different or in a new Point of Light.(2) The inclosed paper contains the Paragraph which if you think worth while you will forward to Govr. Caswell. As I had no particular Information concerning the circumstances of the Dobbs Riot you may presume that I could not directly and pointedly contradict every assertion of Mr Martin, I was therefore obliged to account for the Riot by reference to private disputes which otherwise I should have had no desire to mention, but even under this necessity you see that I have taken Care to cast no shade on the Character of any individual. I conceive that I am possessed of some Philosophy & Patience but still I have not patience sufficient to be silent or unconcerned when I conceive that the Character of a friend is injured. I am Dr sr, Your obedt servt, Hu Williamson RC (Nc--;Ar: Blount Papers). 1 That is, Martin's North Carolina Gazette, published by Francois Xavier Martin at New Bern since January 1786. Clarence S. Brigham, History and Bibliography of American Newspapers, 1690--;1820, 2 vols. (Worcester, Mass.: American Antiquarian Society, 1947), 2:771. 2 Williamson's "Paragraph" on the "Dobbs Riot," which was published in the New York Daily Advertiser of May 20 and the Independent Journal of May 21, emphasized the private character of the "fracas" between Col. Benjamin Shepard and William Barfield "relative to the proposed Constitution" which resulted in Shepard's death.

Paine Wingate to Sarah Wingate

My dear Sally New York May 21. 1788. I received your's of the tenth Instant last evening, and as you think I have neglected writing to you as often as to some others, I shall now discharge my debt to you before any body else. You will not expect that I shall write to you as frequently as to your mother, But you may depend on your share in common with the rest of the children. Your letter gives me a good deal pleasure. It is very well expressed & pertinent. You need not feel uneasy in writing a letter to any body. It is true there are defects in spelling which I could wish you knew how to mend, but these are very fashionable errors in young ladies. I have observed that you are apt to be too diffident of yourself & of what you say & do. This may proceed from a good cause. It may proceed from an anxious desire to appear well. But it should never be indulged in bashfulness. This is very unfashionable. A young lady should be very

Page 107

May 21, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

modest in her dress, innocent in her language, & virtuous in her deportment; but at the same time when she is in company with gentlemen or ladies she will be entirely easy and unimbarrassed in her behaviour. She will be very sociable & familiar upon any trifling subject much as she would be with a brother or sister. You will observe that when you go to see Polly or your Aunt Wingate & have them to see you, You are never at a loss what to say. Any chat will do for you. And much the same kind of talk is made use of among the fashionable people in their visits. Only they keep talking all the time & consequently say more nonsense than you would. Another thing is fashionable which I can not say I entirely approve of. That is---;Fathers, Mothers, sons & daughters, young & old all mix together & talk & joke alike so that you cannot discover any distinction made or any respect shewn to one more than to another. I am not for keeping up a great distance between Parents & Children. I love to have them familiar, sociable & even humerous sometimes, but there is difference between stareing & stark mad. The young gentlemen are never permitted to kiss a lady before company or even to take her by the hand, unless it is to lead her out of the room or to hand her into a carriage or up the steps to a door, or the like. The husband does not hand his wife upon such occasions but some other gentleman does it. So much for fashions in conduct. I do not know any remarkable changes in dress since I have been here. The ladies have still very slim waists with rumpers & plumpers. Very small feet & monstrous large heads. Long trailing gowns & short sleeves. But the plaiting of the hair & adorning the body is I think more attended to than the ornaments of the mind. Consequently the young gentlemen associate with them occasionally for their amusement but do not think of submiting to such a heavy tax as to support them for wives. You will take the hint, & if you wish to have a husband who is worth having, you will appear in such a manner as will induce him to suppose that you will not be a tax upon him to maintain you, but that you will conduce to his interest as well as happiness. I have no more instructions at this time to suggest, but shall give you my most affectionate wishes that you ever walk in the paths of peace and virtue, that you may make a wise choice of your allotments in life, that you may be happy in your friends & connexions, and that all may tend to introduce you to a happier state hereafter. My letters my dear child to any of the family you are welcome to read, on my part, but When they are sent from me they belong to another & I have no right to controul. But I dare say your mother will gratify you in every thing that is proper, perhaps there was something you would not wish to see. I am your affectionate Paine Wingate RC (MH--;H: Wingate Papers).

Page 108

May 22, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

South Carolina Delegates to Thomas Pinckney

Sir New York May 22d. 1788 The frequent Interruptions that have happen'd in the Sitting of Congress prevent us from being able to communicate any Proceedings of a very interesting Nature. Since our last Letter to your Excellency, Congress has receiv'd the Ratifications of the new Constitution by the States of Georgia and Maryland, and also a Letter from the Governor of Rhode Island informing that the Legislature of that State had referr'd the new Constitution to the Consideration & Decision of the People at large in their Town Meetings, and that a Majority of Votes were against the Adoption of it.(1) This important Question being now before the Convention of our State, we have only to express our Hopes that Wisdom will guide it's Deliberations & Decision. An Arrét of the King of France of the 29th December 1787, giving farther Encouragement to the Trade of the United States has been transmitted to Congress by Mr. Jefferson, and a Copy of the same will be forwarded to your Excellency from the Office of Foreign Affairs.(2) It was expected that a Treaty wou'd have been effected with the several Nations of Indians in the Neighbourhood of the Muskingum some time in the current Month, but the latest Advices from the Superintendant of Indian Affairs there,(3) give reason to suppose that it will be a Month or two longer before the Chiefs of the Nations will be in Readiness to assemble. With respect to the Claims of Compensation for the Services of the Ship South Carolina, nothing can yet be done by us, no farther Advices of the Success of Mr. Carmichael's Application being receiv'd. On Enquiry of Mr. Gardoqui Chargé des Affaires of Spain, we find that he has no Instructions from his Court upon that Subject.(4) We have the Honor to be with due Respect, Your Excellency's Most obedt. Servts., Dl. Huger John Parker. Thos. Tud. Tucker RC (ScCoAH: Governor's Messages). Written by Tucker and signed by Tucker, Huger, and Parker. 1 January 5 and May 1 letters of the governors of Georgia and Maryland enclosing their states' ratifications had been read in Congress on May 5 and 8 respectively. An April 5 letter of Gov. John Collins reporting the yeas and nays of the Rhode Island town meetings was also read May 5. See JCC, 34:131n, 140n, 149n. 2 This arrêt, which had been discussed by Thomas Jefferson in his December 31, 1787, letter to John Jay [Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:466--;71, 479--;83], had actually been transmitted to Jay by William Short in his letter of January 1. Short also enclosed a printed letter of December 29 to Jefferson from the French comptroller general of finance, Claude Guillaume Lambert. They are in PCC, item 87, 2:35--;46. Both were sent

Page 109

May 25, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

to the states under cover of the following May 17 circular letter from Jay. "I have the honor of transmitting to your Excellency herewith enclosed, a copy of an Act of his most christian Majesty's Council of State `for the encouragement of the Commerce of France with the United States of America' passed the 29th Decemr, 1787, together with a copy of a Letter on the subject of it from his Majesty's Comptroller General of finance to the honorable Mr. Jefferson, dated on the same day. Although these papers have already appeared in the Gazettes yet not having been until lately communicated officially to Congress, they could not sooner be published by their authority." PCC, item 120, 3:350. Jefferson's letter had been read on May 2 and Short's on May 5. See JCC, 34:130n.2, 132n.5. 3 Richard Butler's letter of May 4 had been read in Congress on May 19. See JCC, 34:160. 4 For the South Carolina claims, see South Carolina Delegates to Pinckney, February 19, note 2.

Charles Thomson to George Clinton

Sir, Office of Secy of Congress May 22. 1788 I have the honor to transmit to yr Excy herewith enclosed an Act of the United States in Congress assembled, recommending to the state of New York to make good the pay of Francis Cranbury late a soldier in the 3d battalion of New york forces from the 25 Augt. 1778 to the 14 Septr. 1780 & charge the same to the United States.(1) With great respect, I have the honor to be, Yr Exys m. ob & m h s., CT LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). Addressed: "Exy The Govr of New York." 1 For the enclosed May 15 resolution, see JCC, 34:154. For the April 5 petition of Cranbury's widow Mary, which was referred on May 2 to the commissioner of army accounts who reported May 10, see PCC, item 62, fols. 239--;42; and JCC, 34:131n, 150--;51.

Peleg Arnold to Stephen Arnold

Honoured Sir,(1) New York 25th May 1788. I imbrace this oppertunity to acknowledge my Regard for your Self and Famaly. The many favors I have received from you Impresses my mind with a grateful Sense of acknowledgement. I have no cause to doubt but your care will further Extend to my Famaly. I Desire you to assist them in my absence with your advice in Farming & Disposing of Such part of the Stock of Sheep & C---;---; as may be Necessary. There is no matters of Importince here and whenever there is I Shall communicate them. This Letter will Remind you that I have not forgotten so Worthy a Friend; I wish you to take the troble to write if not emediately on the Recept of this in the cource of the Summer

Page 110

May 25, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

when you find it mo[s]t conveneint. I have wrote Several Letters to Mrs. Arnold and some to other persons, and wish to have regular answers from home once a week. I presume there will be but little business for coasting Vessels in the Summer and should that be the case, The most regular way of conveyance will be by the Post, The Letters may put into Mr. Carters Office in Providence, you may mention this to Mrs. Arnold and to all others that wish to write. If they are left there they Should have "Free" writen on them Directed "The Hon. Peleg Arnold Delegate in Congress, New-York." Present my Dutiful Respects to your good Lady, and Love to your Famaly, and be assur'd I am with perfect Esteem your Dutiful Son, Peleg Arnold RC (ICHi: Gunther Collection). Addressed: "Stephen Arnold Esqr." 1 Arnold's father Stephen represented the town of Smithfield in the Rhode Island Assembly, 1781--;86. Thomas Steere, History of the Town of Smithfield (Providence: E. L. Freeman & Co., 1881), pp. 171--;72. William Bingham to Tench Coxe Dear sir, New York May 25th 1788 I have received your Letter enclosing an Address to the Convention of Virginia,(1) which I am of opinion may operate a very good Effect on the Minds of the People of this State, & Shall therefore have it republished. If the Friends to the fŒderal System had been more active in disseminating their opinions, & had taken an earlier period for impressing them, they would not have at present to lament their unsuccessfull Efforts in procuring a Majority in the Convention of this State. They confided too much on the good sense of the People & in the Relief that their Interests were too intimately connected with the Adoption of the proposed Government, to admit the possibility of their rejecting it. But as Nine states will probably have ratified before their Session is closed, I think they will hardly have fortitude enough to adjourn the Consideration of, much less to reject the proposed Constitution. Accounts from New Hampshire leave little room to doubt a very Speedy Decision in favor of the new Government. I Shall communicate, as you desire, the enclosed publication to Col Hamilton, & take his opinion with respect to any exceptionable Passages. I am Sincerely, Dear Sir, Your obedt ser, Wm. Bingham

Page 111

May 25, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (PHi: Coxe Papers). 1 For the publication of Coxe's "Address," which was first printed May 21 in the Pennsylvania Gazette under the pseudonym "An American," see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 9:832--;43.

Samuel A. Otis to George Thatcher

Dear Chum N York 25 May 1788 I shall only inform you, brother D & myself made an effort to get the post from Portland to Pownalboro, but could not succeed.(1) The House of Ellsworth were zealous for a new establishment from Philadelphia to Fort Pitt, & laid their plan so well, that all brother Dane's pollicy, & my honesty, could not negative this measure; we called yeas & Nays, but even N Hamshire, altho they could not help seeing our drift, would not stand by us.(2) Could we have stoped the southern post, they would have come into both plans, which I should have liked very well. When we found the Southern obtained, we gave over trying Hazzards report upon the Pownalboro post, because one or two States declared they would oppose it. But a new arrangment of the post-office must soon take place and perhaps by the time you return, we may make a more successful attempt. Nothing has transpired in relation to the farther accession to fŒderal measures. So Carolina having been some time in session, I think we may speedily expect their detirmination; Virginia comes next. Maddison might unanimously be chosen chairman or president of Convention if he would accept of it. Erving left Congress yesterday. We have several members arivd since you was here, as Few, Bingham, Carrington &c. Your friend Cockran had discretion eno' to keep out of this grave diging business, So I fancy had the young man. Mr Penfield & family with Mr D request I would make their remembrances. I mention to you we had got into Queen Street not far from the President. I think an airy agreeable part of the City; or a fine mornings walk. Mrs P is gone into Boerks[?] a few days to see her friends, But we do very well. We have had most dismal weather this spring, rain without ceasing and until this day I hardly know when the Sun appeared. I find great alterations have taken place in the House. Compliments to all friends. Let us hear any communications that are important & believe me yours very sincerely, Sam A Otis RC (MB: Chamberlain Collection). 1 See Otis to Thatcher, April 13, note 1. 2 See JCC, 34:161--;63.

Page 112

May 26, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Cyrus Griffin to Thomas FitzSimons

My dear sir May 26th. [1788] I have the pleasure to write you a few lines to inform the kind family that lady C. and the children are in good health; to make enquiry about yourself and our amiable friend Mrs. F. and also in the name of us all to make our sincere acknowlegements for the many favors received. I hope that Mr OConner was safely landed in the City---;we are greatly obliged to him for the care and attention he shewed to my helpless family. Being indebted to you also in the money way I beg to know the amount that such balance may be discharged with many thanks. Messrs. Jefferson and Adams have been able to borrow for the united States another million of florins in Holland, upon the prospect of the new Constitution being established, but as Congress have not yet ratified the Contract it may remain with You.(1) Mr. Jefferson seems to think that the War in Europe will be general---;but no positive Judgment can be drawn from such a Chaos of politics as that part of the world now exhibits. The british Courtiers are ridiculing our situation very much---; and tell Mr Adams in a sneering manner when America shall assume some kind of Government then England will speak to her. Accept the enclosed paper---;with our affections & best wishes to all---;do believe me, yours &c, C Griffin RC (PHi: Gratz Collection). 1 Thomas Jefferson's brief letter of March 13 explaining his trip to Amsterdam was read in Congress this day, but his March 16 letter detailing the negotiations he and John Adams had concluded with the Dutch for a new loan of one million guilders had been read May 22. The latter was referred on the 23rd to a committee of five chaired by Abraham Baldwin whose May 28 report in favor of the loan was agreed to the following day. The board of treasury also gave its approval, submitting "an attested notarial Copy" of the contract on June 25 which Congress considered the 27th and ratified on July 2. See JCC, 34:174--;77, 185--;86, 266--;67, 282--;83; PCC, item 87, 2:51--;72, item 185, 4:33, 35; and Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:661, 671--;76. See also Abraham Yates to George Clinton, June 27 and July 2.

Cyrus Griffin to James Madison

My dear sir N Y. May 26th. [1788] I have the pleasure to write you by this post to make a thousand enquiries concerning your health from the marchioness &c to enclose you the debates of the Massachusetts convention under seperate covers.

Page 113

May 26, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Contrary to expectation it so happens that we cannot bring nine states to act upon the floor of Congress, and this day one of the Maryland Gentlemen(1) is going away which will throw us aback probably for some weeks. Messrs. Jefferson and Adams have lately met at Amsterdam, and have been able to borrow for the united states another million of florins from the dutch, upon the prospect of the New constitution being established, but Congress have not yet ratified the contract yet certainly will do it without a single objection.(2) They seem to think that the war in Europe will be general, but confess that no positive Judgment can be formed from such a chaos of politics as that part of the world now exhibits. Colonel Smith is just arrived from England, but has told us nothing of a secret or interesting nature.(3) The Courtiers are ridiculing our situation very much, and say upon all occasions in a laughing manner that when the united states shall assume some sort of Government then England will speak out. Gentlemen are perpetually calling to know what will be the event of the Constitution in Virginia---;do, my kind friend, at this particular crisis write to me from time to time that I may give the best information upon the subject. Accept the enclosed papers---;and accept too the best wishes & regards of your affet friend and obedient Servant, C Griffin RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 That is, David Ross. See JCC, 34:179, 184. 2 See the preceding entry. 3 That is, William Stephens Smith, secretary of the American legation in London.

Charles Thomson to William Ellery

Sir, New York May 26. 1788 I have received your favour of the 18 & agreeably to your request transmit you herewith a list of the members now in Congress. It might have been expected that even the crooked wisdom of your Know ye men would before this have pointed out to them the necessity of altering their conduct, not from a conviction of the iniquity of their past measures but with a view to secure their wicked gains. But it seems as if they were destined to be examples, and to warn the other states against the evils and mischiefs, of pure democracy. I hope the good people of your state will be awakened to a sense of their situation & the contempt to which they have exposed themselves by suffering themselves to be guided by unprincipled designing men.

Page 114

May 26, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

I am sorry for your losses. We have encountered together a severe storm. We have been surrounded with dark blackening clouds and have seen them dispelled and followed by a bright sky & clear sunshine. I confess it is enough to try the patience of Job to have passed safely the tempestuous Ocean and be in danger of drowning in a duck puddle. The sentiment you allude to in the close of your letter was not "That it was a pity that the war had not continued longer" but that too speedy a termination of the war was not to be wished---;And that I was more afraid of peace than of a continuance(1) of the war. Sensible of our inexperience in the art of government and of the self sufficiency of those who would probably take the reins I dreaded the mischief that might flow from the wanton abuse of power and liberty too easily acquired. I confess we have escaped better than I expected. I am therefore encouraged to hope for a favorable issue and to conclude with "forsan et hac olim enemissi juvabit."(2) RC (Christie's Catalog, June 8, 1990, item 49, illustration). 1 Remainder of text from Christie's Catalog transcript, ibid. 2 Cf. Virgil, Aeneid 1. 203, "forsan et haec olim meminisse juvabit"---;"Perhaps it may one day be a pleasure to remember these sufferings." Henry T. Riley, A Dictionary of Latin and Greek Quotations, Proverbs, Maxims and Mottos (London: George Bell and Sons, 1876), p. 129.

Charles Thomson to Thomas Hutchins

Sir Office of Secretary of Congress. May 26th. 1788. I embrace the earliest opportunity to transmit to You herewith enclosed an extract from the Journals of Congress, by which You will be informed that the United States in Congress Assembled have been pleased to reelect You Geographer of the United States & that Your Commission is to continue in force for two Years unless sooner revoked.(1) I beg leave to congratulate You on the occasion, and to assure You of the sincere esteem with which I am, Sir, Your Obedient Humble servant LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). 1 For the enclosed May 26 extract, see JCC, 34:180.

Charles Thomson to the States

Sir, (Circular) Office of Secretary of Congress, May 26th. 1788 I have the honor of transmitting to your Excellency herewith en-

Page 115

May 26, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

closed, an Act of the United States in Congress Assembled pass'd the 22nd.(1) By this and their Act of the 8th, which I had the honor of transmitting, with my Letter of the 12th, it is hoped the Accounts between the United States and Individual persons will speedily be brought to a close. With great Respect, I have the honor to be, Your Excellency's Most Obedient & Most hum servt., Cha Thomson(2) RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). 1 See JCC, 34:169--;71. See also Thomson to the States, May 12. 2 On May 26 the secretary for foreign affairs, John Jay, also transmitted the following circular letter to the states enclosing a June 7, 1787, letter to him from Charles W. F. Dumas concerning a Swedish pirate ship captained by one Capt. Adolph Dahlberg, who was described to Dumas by the Swedish ambassador to The Hague, the baron Schultz von Ascheraden. See Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 3:578--;80. "Mr. Dumas, agreeable to the request of the Envoy extraordinary of his Swedish Majesty at the Hague, has transmitted to me a note he received from that minister, which I have now the honor of communicating to your Excellency, in order that such measures may be taken on the subject as circumstances and the Laws of nations may dictate." PCC, item 120, 3:352.

Hugh Williamson to Samuel Johnston

Dr sir New York 26th May 1788 You recollect that the general Assembly of our State during their last session passed a Law repealing all such other Laws as were inconsistent with the Treaty of Peace.(1) The Secretary of Congress informs me that no such Act has been forwarded to Congress and it is much desired, will you be so good as send me by Post a printed Copy of that Law or an attested manuscript as you may think best. The general Assembly also, near the End of the Session, instructed the Delegates in Congress to move certain Propositions respecting the Navigation of the Mississippi. I shall be obliged to your Excellency for a Copy of that vote & of the Resolutions.(2) It may happen that Mr White has received one and the other of the Papers above reff[e]rred to, but he has not communicated them and is gone hardly to be expected here for some Months. The Virginia Delegates are also instructed respecting the Mississippi, but they are disposed not to bring forward that Business before we are ready to support them. I have the Honour to be, Your Excellencies most obedt and very hble Servt., Hu Williamson RC (Nc--;Ar: Governors' Papers). 1 For the North Carolina act repealing all laws in violation of the treaty of peace, which was read in Congress September 13, see N.C. State Records, 21:477; PCC, item 72, fols. 253-60; and JCC, 34: 526n. See also Charles Thomson to the States, April 13, 1787, note.

Page 116

May 26, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

2 Governor Johnston forwarded these "Resolutions" June 29. On July 14 the North Carolina Delegates moved in Congress that "the United States have a clear absolute and unalienable Claim to the free Navigation of the River Mississippi," a motion referred the next day to the Secretary for Foreign Affairs to report. For Congress' deferral of this issue, see Williamson to Johnston, September 17, 1788.

Massachusetts Delegates to John Hancock

Sir, New York May 27th. 1788 We received the letter of Mr. Secretary Avery of the 3d Ultimo with the resolution of the General Court inclosed, directing us to procure a copy of the plan agreeably to the feild book of the late Commissioners appointed to run the line between the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the State of New York, East of Hudson's river. We have employed a person to make a copy of that plan,(1) who will probably have it done in a few weeks, which, when ready, we shall forward to the Secretary, as directed. Congress have directed the two Cannon belonging to Massachusetts to be returned to the State, agreeable to Your Excellency's request; and for the reasons mentioned in the Act of Congress,(2) which the Secretary will transmit, have ordered an inscription to be engraved on them, which we hope will be a pleasing circumstance to the State. We also do ourselves the honor to give Your Excellency and the Legislature such general information touching the affairs of the union, as we think may be useful and expected from the Delegates of the State. The principal objects, not of a secret nature, that require the attention of Congress of late, are, the Federal Territories, Indian Affairs, the unsettled Accounts of the late war, and the means of discharging the current demands upon the Union. An inconsiderable part of the year, in our opinion, would be sufficient for attending to these objects, could the States be induced regularly and seasonably to attend in Congress. As to the Government of the Federal Territories, we need only observe, that the officers are appointed, and measures adopted, for carrying into effect the system established by Congress, by their ordinance of the 13th of July last---;so that there is now, in those Territories a Government properly organised and in operation. We flatter ourselves that the valuable and extensive tracts of federal lands, of which Congress have the disposal, may, with care and attention, be made a certain source for sinking a large part of the domestic debt of the Union. Terms for the disposal of about nine millions of acres have been agreed upon, and the average price has been rather more than two thirds of a dollar an acre in public securities. Other Companies have made application for purchasing about three mil-

Page 117

May 27, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

lions of acres more. From a general veiw of the terms agreed upon, and also of the terms offered, there is reason to believe that most of the lands between the Ohio and the completion of the forty first degree of North Latitude, will sell for half a dollar an acre in securities paid down at the time of sale. As Companies appear to purchase those lands in large tracts, and agree to locate the tracts internally according to the directions of the land ordinance, passed May 20th, 1785, the reasons, for surveying in townships those lands at the public expence have, in a great measure, ceased, and accordingly the surveys have ceased for the present. In the Federal Territories, as is often the case, many claims are set up by individuals under Indian deeds, &c. to these pretended claims, as well as to punctual payments for lands sold, we hope Congress will pay proper attention---;convinced as we are, that nothing but a regular system of measures Steadily adhered to for a number of years can produce all the good effects, that may be reasonably expected from this extensive property in the hands of the union.(3) It has been a question, with the Eastern Delegates especially, whether peopling those new regions with emigrants from the old States, may not, in one point of veiw, be a disadvantage to them. But it has been found, that those new lands are very inviting to settlers, and that, if not regularly disposed of and governed by the union, they will in a very few years, probably, be seised upon and settled in an irregular manner, and perhaps at no less expence of Inhabitants to the old States. Considering these circumstances, the advantages of regular settlements, of lessening the public debt and military expences on the frontiers, and of keeping, by such settlements, that Country more effectually connected with the union, Congress have been induced to adopt measures to establish government, &c. there. Provision has been made for holding treaties, in the ensuing Summer, with the Western and Southern Indians, to quiet their discontents. It does not appear that the Indians, in general, on the frontiers are hostilely disposed towards the United States; but such is the temper of Indians and the character of many of the frontier people, so extensive are the frontier Countries, and uncertain the titles to tracts of lands about which disputes arise, that discontents and depredations generally exist at some place or other, between those people and the Indians---;From which Causes, if not constantly attended to and their effects guarded against, expensive and troublesome wars would result. Hence the United States unavoidably incur every year a considerable expence in the Indian department; tho triffling for several years together, compared with what would be the expence of a combined Indian war for one season. It is Judged to be the true policy of the United States to treat the Indians with Justice and equity; to promote peace

Page 118

May 27, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

with them, and by a fair free trade between them and our Citizens to make, as far as it can be done, compensation for the expences of the Indian Department. The Unsettled Accounts of the late war are a subject of importance, and particularly at this time, as a change in the forms of the Government will, probably, soon take place, when the attention of the Union will necessarily be drawn to other objects. We need not notice the measures that were adopted in the last and preceeding years relative to this subject. It is probable that in less than a year from this time, the accounts of individuals (a few accepted) will be settled, and that several officers and expences in the Treasury Department will become unnecessary and cease. It is also probable, that, in the course of a few months, the five districts Commissioners appointed to collect the accounts of the respective States against the union, will finish their business. The Secretary of Congress will officially transmit to your Excellency, the Act of Congress of the 22d instant, relative to this subject(4)---;by this it will appear that Congress, after having often, by their Acts and Officers, called on persons entrusted with public monies to settle their accounts, have directed decisive measures to be pursued. It is, perhaps, proper for us to observe, that the persons whom this act respects are not numerous; but a few men, principally in the middle States, who early in the war received very large sums of public monies, and who have very unreasonably delayed to render their accounts. It is not expected that very large sums on settlement will be found due from these persons, tho sums too considerable to be lost or neglected by the union. Congress deem it essential that men, however distinguished, entrusted with the public property should always be brought, punctually, to render and settle their accounts; not only to do Justice to the public in the particular Cases; but also to evince that there is always a determination in the Government that no Accounts shall remain unsettled, and thereby to provide the most effectual security against a fraudulent line of conduct which men, so entrusted, might otherwise be tempted to pursue. It is with great difficulty monies are obtained by Congress for discharging the current expences of the union. There is no prospect, at present, of any monies to be remitted to Europe---;and as there are some measures before Congress respecting our loans in Holland not yet acted upon, we forbear to make any observations on that subject at this time. Your Excellency by the papers furnished from time to time, by the board of Treasury, will particularly see the extent of the annual demands upon the union, and the amount of the reciepts at the Federal Treasury. We only observe that for the year 1787 276,141 Dollars(5) only were received there exclusive of Indents and the monies last year

Page 119

May 27, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

loaned. Should the New Constitution be put into operation, as soon as it can be reasonably expected, good Judges seem to be of opinion that no considerable sums of money can be collected under it, 'till we shall get far into the year 1790. In this situation of things, we cannot think the states will Judge it proper wholly to omit payments into the federal Treasury in the mean time, and suffer the demands upon the union to accumulate as they must---;or the present Government to cease until another shall be adopted. The State of Virginia and the District of Kentucky have applied to Congress for the Admission of that District into the union as an independant State. This subject involves in it several considerations, and particularly this, whether the admission of Kentucky into the Union ought not to be contemplated, at least for the present, in connexion with the admission of Vermont. It does not clearly appear that Congress have the power under the Confederation to consent to the division of a state, and to the admission of a part of it, as an independant state, into the Confederacy. We doubt whether it is expedient at this time to decide on a Subject of this nature, or whether the admission of a State would be of any avail to it. But situated as these two districts are we think it advisable, that no discouragements to their admission into the Union, as independent States, hereafter, ought to be hove in the way. We think it proper thus briefly to State this subject to your Excellency, and our sentiments relative to it, and to observe, that it is our opinion at present, that we ought to Act in conformity to them, unless otherwise instructed by the legislature. With Sentiments of the highest esteem & respect, We are Your Excellency's Most humble Servants, N. Dane Sam. A. Otis RC (M--;Ar: Revolutionary War Letters). Written by Dane and signed by Dane and Otis. 1 For which see Samuel A. Otis to James Warren, February 6, note 6; and Charles Thomson's Memorandum Book, February 7--;29, note 14. 2 For this May 19 congressional resolution, see JCC, 34:158--;59. 3 Congress was in the process of revising the land ordinance of May 20, 1785, to expedite the sale of western lands. A committee of five chaired by Abraham Clark had been appointed for that purpose on February 22 and their report was read for the first time on March 19 and ordered printed. Congress debated the report March 24--;27 and, for lack of a quorum, not again until May 26--;29. On June 19 it referred the amended report to a committee chaired by Nathan Dane that brought in a new draft (which is in the Peter Force Miscellany, DLC) on July 2 which was debated and amended July 7--;8. The final "supplement" to the land ordinance adopted on July 9 incorporated earlier modifications in the system (for which see these Letters, 24:236-37n.3, 382n.4 ), altered the method of satisfying military bounties, and made the place and manner of payment more convenient. See JCC, 34:55n.3, 95--;100, 107, 113--;14, 180, 184--;85, 187, 241--;46, 277--;81, 297, 301--;3, 305--;10. For published versions of the "supplement," cf. ibid., pp. 631, 633--;34; and Evans, Am. Bibliography, nos. 20,788, 21,515, 21,533. See also Payson J.

Page 120

May 27, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Treat, The National Land System, 1785--;1820 (1910; reprint ed., New York: Russell & Russell, 1967), pp. 41--;47. 4 See Charles Thomson to the States, May 26. 5 Actually $276,641. Joseph Nourse's annual report of "Monies which have been paid by the several States into the Treasury of the United States from 1st January 1787, to 1st January 1788," dated "Register's Office 9th May 1788," is in the Peter Force Miscellany, DLC. Contributions from 10 states are reported in the following amounts: New Hampshire, $6,402 53/90, Massachusetts, $24,063 56/90, Connecticut, $16,881 53/90, New York, $41,108 19/90, New Jersey, $5,210 46/90, Pennsylvania, $14,272, Delaware, $7,573 14/90, Maryland, $85,552 80/90, Virginia, $47,090 5/90, and North Carolina, $28,486 78/90.

Samuel A. Otis to Caleb Davis

Dear Sir New York 27 May 1788 I congratulate you & my Town upon the appointment of a very respectable seat,(1) at the head of which you have so often met the approbation of your fellow citizens & contributed important services. I conjecture you will have a good house, because the same electors appoint the house who have chosen a good Senate. The rejection of Mr Warren at Milton, Mr Reed, and especially Mr Gorham, is very unaccountable;(2) I thot the latter had the fee simple of the Charlestown Seat. Mr Dane & myself have given an official account of our doings,(3) and which being directed to the Governour I hope it will give no offence, as one from Mr Thacher & myself did, by being inadvertently directed to the Legislature.(4) I take the opportunity to contradict an idle report that Congress are contemplating to sponge the debt of the Union---;Than which, nothing can be a more groundless surmise. So far from this we have it in view, and fortunately in our power, from the fidelity & address of Messrs Adams & Jefferson to borrow another million florins in Holland, which will provide for the interest of the Dutch Loan to 1790 inclusive, & pay the expences of foreign arrangments; I mean if we omit the installments of 1788, 1789 & 1790 of the principal falling due to the Dutch at those periods respectively, & the French interest & instalments wholly. This indeed is only giving a new note for the interest, but it is all we can do under present circumstances. For the domestic debt we are making all possible provision by the sale of Lands &c. Tis true no requisition for the year has been made. This has however been omitted from very different causes than any intention to anihilate the domestic debt; For as to the foreign, should this, or any other Congress be so weak or wicked as to attempt the wiping it off, by any indirect measures the injured party would stand justified to the world, should they make attachments upon the high seas, & sue out the mortage upon our Sea ports. In fact the reasons operating against the requisi

Page 121

May 27, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

tion this year were, The attention of the public was so fixed to the new System it seldom admitted of a full representation, When nine states have assembled other attention have unavoidably obtruded themselves. The ferment of the public mind also made any additional heat an object of great circumspection. Congress supposed if there was a disposition in the people to pay, there were old requisitions to exercise it upon; If there was no disposition, New requisitions, of which either no notice, or a resentful one, would probably be taken, appeared neither a measure of discretion, or honorary to Government. From Europe the rumour seems to be of war. The two Empires have attacked the Turks in force, & the European politicians are of opinion, unless the disciple of Mahomet gets some assistance he will be overwhelmed. It is however said upon pretty good authority, that Spain objects to the admission of the Russians into the Mediterranean; And in fact when England & France disarmed, Spain has kept fifteen Line Ships equipt; Some say to awe her American Subjects who grow refractory, Whilst others assert the keeping Russia from navigating in the Mediterranean is the real object, and that She is backed by France. In Holland the Statholder rides triumphant over the liberties of his Country. He has however done Congress the honor of a Letter since his exaltation. In France their affair are still embroiled. The Spirit of liberty seems to have awoke, and this makes odd work in a Monarchy. Their reforms are however an uphill business; It seems to be a contest of King & ministry against the financiers & property; Which will prevail requires no great penetration to predict. The Marquis de Fayette will probably share the fate of the Duke de Sully under Harry 4th, who with much superior abilities attempting to reform abuses, stired up such an hornetts nest, as had well-nigh stung both him & his master to death. Banishment & disgrace of the honest minister alone saved the King for a time; Who at the head of his army, whilst his financiers were rolling in wealth, & the superfluities of peculation, wrote his faithful Mentor, not indeed in the usual stile of Monarchs, "For G---;---;ds sake Sully send me a clean Shirt & pair of boots being destitute of both." The reformers it is said have rather encreased expence hitherto. They are however amongst other things about to discontinue the packetts to America upon principles of Œconomy. The late arret in favor of Commerce obtained by Mr Jefferson under countenance of Marquis de Fayette, is clamoured at by the chambers of commerce, & is refused registration by the Parliament, without which it is too precarious for any dependence.(5) It is confidently asserted that England, Holland & Prussia are determined upon an offensive & defensive. The Court of Berlin it is thot however will demur. The Prussians know it is for their interest to keep well with France; And their cool politicians view the late inter-

Page 122

May 27, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

ference with the affairs of Holland a piece of Quicksotism [Quixotism?]; They wish however to have the sole controul of the affairs of Holland, and turn them as circumstances & interest may dictate for, or against France; Their connexion with England may make them less manageable. There is a fishery establishing at Dunkirk & the undertakers perswade the French Government, they shall be able to effect great things, which will end in Smoke; Under the present impression they are discouraging our fisheries, in hope of building their own upon the ruin. But our friends say it is temporary, & not formidable. In respect to England it is supposed sooner or later a commercial treaty will be effected. Interest the great pole Star of men & of nations dictate it; Interest which supersedes personal animosity, & converts national hatred into amity, points it out; And whatever may now be the present feelings of both nations, hereafter, they will be connected by this powerful bond of union. In the mean time our European friends, official & others, enjoin it upon us to be prepared for events, But to observe a sacred nutrality in regard to the European bickerings. For indeed on the other side of the Atlantic, the "dogs of war are let loose," & the fire burning in the North, will probable kindle a general flame; England & France stand a tipto & a casual spark may excite an universal blaze. Indiscreet therfore is it for our printers to lard their papers with national reflections. Is it for the interest or honor of a young Merchant wishing to drive an advantageous bargain with an old established House to be perpetually bullying them? We are the youngest nation on earth, & being admitted into company with our elders, modest firmness & defference to those before us in age & experience, will give dignity & importance, Whilst a contrary conduct, will be as derogatory from national honor, as the airs of a Coxcomb are, from the demeanour of an accomplished Gentleman. Equally unfortunate are any publications criminating & reflecting upon sister states. Union is our only hope. This bond once broken, & the tragedies of antient Greece & more modern Italy will be acted over, in our now happy Country. Every man & every State have their peculiar views, prejudices, & partialities, And perhaps overrating their own importance, & consequently feel too quick, But this should rather inculcate circumspection; And altho in our public assemblies strictures upon sister states may unavoidably take place, it answers no good purpose to hold them up in our papers, & blazon family faults to the world. We are in daily expectation of addition of such as shall be politically saved to the fŒderal list; Hot spirits however fume in opposition; And much exertion, patience & discretion are necessary. Doubtless the opposition of Verginia, New York, & N Hamshire will adopt a uniform System. I cannot see reason to expect an absolute negative from any quarter but R Island. Probably in the three first named States an attempt will be made at adjournment without day. If they fail in this, al-

Page 123

May 28, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

terations will be the next object, annexed as Massachusetts did. At present I suppose five in eight of the NY convention are in the opposition. Clinton and some others have done infinite mischief in this business; for which the Citizens of this state owe them no thanks. For good pollicy would probably have fixed this the seat of Government, from the residence of which in its present State they derive an annual advantage of 200,000 Dolls, And which would increase with our numbers & our National importance. But C is a mercenary man with daring qualities, that willcarry him thro everything in pursuit of his own interest & aggrandizement. I think however this State dare not stand alone against N Engld towards which upon all occasions they look with an exploring circumspect eye. Thus Sir I have detailed to you everything within my observation worthy your notice. Your discretion will communicate only in Confidence, Your candour excuse the trouble, And presenting myself very respectfully to my numerous friends I remain, With esteem & Regard, Your most huml Sert, Sam. A. Otis RC (MHi: Davis Papers). 1 Davis had just been reelected a representative from Boston to the Massachusetts General Court. 2 In the recent Massachusetts elections for representatives to the General Court, Joseph Blake had been elected for Milton in the place of former speaker James Warren, William Heath for Roxbury in the place of John Read, and Thomas Harris for Charlestown in the place of Nathaniel Gorham. See "Journal of the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, commencing Wednesday 28 May 1788," DLC(ESR). For an analysis of the Massachusetts elections of 1788, see Hall, Politics Without Parties, pp. 299--;305. 3 See the preceding entry. 4 No such letter from Otis and Thatcher to the Massachusetts General Court has been found. 5 For this December 29, 1787, arrêt, see Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 12:466--;71, 479--;83. For the discontent of the French merchants with the arrêt, see ibid., 12:564, 13:191--;98. See also South Carolina Delegates to Thomas Pinckney, May 22, note 2.

Edward Carrington to James Madison

My dear Sir, New York May 28. 1788 I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of your several favors from Orange & am much obliged to you for them.(1) Mr. Brown informs me that he has sent you full statements of the Foreign & domestic debts(2) ---;should you find any additional papers useful, be good enough to inform me, and they shall be immediately forwarded. I can however now add to what you have received, some intelligence upon the subject of our debts. You are acquainted with the steps taken by Mr. Adams last year, for negotiating a loan of 1 Million of Guilders---;this loan has not been filled up---;about two thirds of the

Page 124

May 28, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Bonds deposited by him with our bankers to be negotiated, have remained undisposed of, owing to the dubious state of our politics---;the inefficiency of our old Government is too well known in Holland to induce the confidence of Money lenders, and doubts whether the new Constitution will be adopted have prevented their taking that as a ground, on which to depend upon our honesty. As the June interest was becoming due, and as our bankers were also pressed for other indispensible demands, they lately set about some new efforts to get the loan filled---;at last they had an Offer from one broker only, but it was of a Nature rather insulting than otherwise---; having in his possession a Sum of our domestic securities he offered to fill up the loan, provided he should be allowed to retain one years Interest upon those securities. This would have amounted to upwards of one fourth of the sum loaned---;in this embarrassment the Bankers addressed themselves to Mr. Jefferson who has gone to Holland to see what can be done. From Amsterdam he has communicated this proposition to Congress, & in the mean time is endeavouring to get the loan compleated upon other terms.(3) In France we are undergoing also severe strictures amongst those to whom we owe money. In the inclosed papers you will receive the late British Act of Parliament upon the subject of our Trade with the different Territories of that Nation.(4) You see that this Court are presuming much upon our remaining in our imbecile State, having confirmed in a formal Act, what they at first tried in only temporary regulations, for oppressing us. In the debates of the House of Commons Notice was taken of the proposed reform in our Government, which might render this an imprudent measure, but the promoters of it, supposed they had but little to apprehend. I trust we shall soon have it in our power to teach this haughty Nation which is the most dependant in an advantageous intercourse---;her West India Islands cannot prosper without us. We can do very well without any thing from thence. The Gentlemen who are attending here from N. Hampshire, assure me that there will be no doubt of an adoption of the Constitution upon the re-assembling of the Convention, as several of the Towns whose members were formerly instructed to vote in the Negative, have given up their opposition. I cannot learn that any act has taken place declaratory of such a change of sentiment, yet the supposition that it is the case, is presumable, because the persistence of the opposition in that State, must depend on its re-animation in Massachusetts, and of this there is not even a faint prospect. The acquiescence of the Minority there is fully confirmed in the late elections---;upwards of two thirds of the Senators returned are declared freinds of the Constitution of which discription are generally those who represent the parts of the State where the opposition was the most obstinate. I shall do myself the pleasure to write you by the next post and shall

Page 125

May 28, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

constantly do so during your session, you will much oblige me by the earliest information of the symptoms discoverable in the convention respecting the important object of your Meeting. I am my Dr sir your Afft. Freind & Hl St., Ed. Carrington RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 Not found. 2 See John Brown to Madison, May 12, note 6. 3 See Cyrus Griffin to Thomas FitzSimons, May 26, note. 4 Carrington undoubtedly enclosed the May 24 issue of the New York Daily Advertiser which printed a copy of the recent parliamentary act regulating trade between the United States and the West Indies, 28 Geo. III, chap. 6, which may be found in the continuation volumes of Owen Ruffhead's The Statutes at Large [1225--;1800], 18 vols. (London: Basket, Eyre and Strahan, 1763--;1800), 15:401--;4.

Abraham Yates to Abraham G. Lansing

Dr Sir(1) New York 28 May 1788 I begin this letter in the Congress Room. Yesterday we had Nine. I hear An Other Member is Come in from North Carolina which will bring us up to Ten states. It is said Others are expected. Wither the attending so Many states is intirely owing to an exertion Necessary when Nine States shall have adopted the New Constitution or wither somthing Else is in Agitation I know not. At present We have had not[hing] Matereal in Considern. I apprehend It will be brought on the carpet to give a sanction to a Loan proposed to be taken in Europe to pay for the Interest Due for the Last year---;A Measure Exceding perorations. I am treated with Civility And In my usual Manner Am as Civil as I can to every one. I arrived Sunday Moroning And Directly Waited on Coll Hamilton to be informed wither the Commission in the name of all five or wither I must take out a Commission for myself---; And before Whoam he had qualified (The Delegates are ordered to take the New Oath of Allegiance) Being Answered that he had not known but lately that he was to qualify he had not done it We Agreed to go the next day before [...] to qualify. After that We Both went to take our Seat,(2) yesterday he Called at my Lodgings I Was not At home, to day he has Invited me to Dine With him Next Sunday Which I Shall do. In Respect to Federal and Entre federal I find that it is beleved here (I mean by the federelist) that the anties will be 40 to the federal 25. Hammelton tells me to day he Supposes that the Anties will adopt the Constitution and propose Amendments. I told him I was in hopes they Would be guilty of Such An Absurdity---;he tells me We are in a difficult Situation. It May be the Means, if We Dont, to devide the Southeren from the Northeren States And so Devide the union. I told

Page 126

May 28, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

him I Would be exceeding sorry of that: but reather then to Adopt the Constitution I Would Risk a government of Jew, Turk or Infidle. On a former Conversation he mentiond our situation was Difficult And did not know how providence Would order it: I told him the Government that Were agreable to providence had for its Pillers Righteousness And truth. I could hardly think that providence had a hand in a goverment were it required to Wade through such A Scene of Corruption, falshood And Misreprezentation. I have been Attacked by several Other Members And I generelly play of[f] in the same Way All is in good Humor. I expect a good Deal of that to Morrow. I am to dine With the president Mr Johnson.(3) Here ends the first Chapter from Yours Most Affecy. Abm. Yates Junr P.S. I have urged the Members here to prepare for Amendment. They tell me they Do. I am afraid they are too slack. RC (NN: Yates Papers). Addressed: "Abr. G Lansing Esqr." 1 Abraham G. Lansing (1756--;1844), an Albany, N.Y., antifederalist, was the son of Gerrit J. and Jane Waters Lansing, and brother of John Lansing. He was also Yates' son-in-law, having in 1779 married his daughter Susanna, with whom he had 14 children. Claude G. Munsell, The Lansing Family (New York: Privately printed, 1916), pp. 22, 48. 2 Yates took his seat in Congress under his new credentials on May 26. See JCC, 34:179. 3 Apparently William Samuel Johnson, the president of Columbia College.

Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon

Dear Sir New York May 29th 1788 I have the pleasure to inform you that letters were received last evening from a gentleman in the Convention of South Carolina by which it appears there is a very respectable Majority in favor of the new System. An account of the ratification is hourly expected. And there is good reason to believe that the majority will be greater than appeared against the adjournment (vide the enclosed paper) as many of the minority came fettered with instructions, repugnant to their present sentiments. Late accounts from Virginia on this Subject are favourable. With the greatest Respect, I have the Honor to be, Dear Sir, your most Humble servant, N. Gilman(1) RC (Capt. J.G.M. Stone, Annapolis, Md., 1973). 1 Gilman wrote a nearly identical letter this day to Jeremiah Wadsworth, which is document no. 9,442, Emmet Collection, NN.

Page 127

May 30, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

John Armstrong, Jr. to Horatio Gates

My dear Gen. New York 30th May 1788. Your letter of the 29th of April(1) was long on its way, as it did not reach me 'till the 24th Instant. That I have been very delinquent in not writing to you oftener I admit, but that this delinquency has ever arisen from want of remembrance, affection or respect, I entirely deny. The truth is that it has proceeded from a doubt or a difficulty of conveyance, from the interferences of business & sometimes perhaps (of which I should be & am heartily asham'd) from an indolence which I got from nature & which neither time nor the experience that follows it can entirely correct. 'Tis however the indolence of Mandeville's porter & can be thrown aside without any reluctance when the object is either to make a new friend, or preserve an old one. I have done as you bid me with respect to the note you enclos'd. Troup pretended not to have any recollection of the facts but admitted the hand:writing & paid the money---;or what was the same thing gave me an order upon Rivington for the amount in books. The registers came but to 12 Dollars & as you were silent as to the farther application of the money I have put it upon Rivington's honor, science & Taste to vest the remaining 28 in the newest & most approv'd things that his shop affords, & he promises to discharge the commission like a gentleman & friend---;not like a printer & bookseller. The other note you mention to have been presented by Coll. Lewis neither he nor Troup have any recollection of. As to the conveyance you suggest for the books, I have my doubts. These arise from the frequent losses sustain'd by stage carriage & some of which I have myself suffer'd. Could I find any person going to Baltimore in whom I could confide, they should be sent instantly---;but none such presents himself at this moment---;& I have only to choose between committing them to certain risque, or waiting a few days for such an opportunity as I can approve. I prefer, & I hope you will, the delay & the certainty, to the expedition & the risque. There's no part of my conduct on which I would not wish your approbation & I have yet no reason to think the resignation of my judicial appointment an improper step.(2) On the contrary I think with you it was right & that a little in society is much more desireable than a great deal in a desart. The career however which the new Goverment opens I'm far from thinking flattering to men of any Age or character---;for tho' a friend & advocate of the System (as a Step towards common sense & practicable Goverment) yet it falls so far short of

Page 128

May 30, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

what I know to be the situation & believe to be the character of this Country---;that I despair at once of both the stability & convenience of the œdifice. The fact is my dear Gen. that my creed as to popular Goverments is very much chang'd under a little experience of their operation & I suspect that shape them as you will you must find them on experiment both foolish & feeble. The philosophy that teaches the equality of mankind & the dignity of human nature is founded in vanity & addressed to it alone---;And in my opinion tho' there be less consolation there is infinitely more truth in the opposite doctrine, that the many were made for the few, & that we are better govern'd by rods than by reason. These ideas I wish you to consider however as meerly speculative & such as I would express only to a tried & bosom friend; they convey my fears, not my wishes---;& will ever be more a matter of opinion than a rule of conduct. What particular part I'm destin'd to play in this new drama I know not? My standing at present, considering my age, & that I have been oblig'd to make my way thro' very narrow & hostile politics---;is as forward as I had any right to expect, & more so perhaps, when I consider how many with better pretensions, because with more collateral supports---;I have left behind me. This consideration will not however induce me to push myself forward for other or greater distinctions. I will neither conceal myself from View, nor obtrude myself upon it---;& then if appointments come, they will sit easy. My friends in Pennsylvania have I hear already tho't of a place for me, & mean to try their force in sending me to the new Senate---;but as they will have but two seats of that kind fo fill, I need hardly say that they will be seats of much competition. The rich & the ag'd (as the natural representatives of property & wisdom, & the true counter ballance to the cormorants of the lower house), will expect, & most probably get them---;& indeed so little am I set upon success in the trial, that I scarcely feel a wish to cross them. My leading wish is to see them well fill'd. Another word or two concerning myself & on another subject---;one on which most young men choose to display their wit at the expence of their judgment---;I mean marriage. The report you alude to is unfounded. I'm not yet married, nor likely to be so.(3) The truth is that I'm too poor to marry a woman without some fortune & too proud to marry any woman, that I know, who possesses one. In this dilemma, 'till my circumstances change, or other objects present themselves, I must ee'r keep along in the cheerless solitary road I am in. Thus much for myself---;but you will forgive an impertinince you have drawn upon yourself. Coll. Smith return'd hither from St. James's a day or two ago.(4) He brings with him a wife & child---;the whole profit of his legation. He has parted with some of his characteristical buckram, that is, his external manner is more easy than it was---;but I fear he has exchang'd it

Page 129

May 30, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

for a coxcombry of a worse kind---;that of the Mind. He is now a very profound politician, & indeed so much so that he is often quite unintelligible. This I regret for I think well of his honor & principles. His Wife, who is a daughter of Mr. J. Adams, is the negative being described in Mrs. Shandy. The Baron passed the winter at the same lodging house with me.(5) To this he has come at last. The tower is now dismantled & deserted, & he is once more upon the Justice or generosity of the public. But the public has neither---;& he has only to choose between starving here or begging in Europe. This is calamitous to him & disgracefull to Us. He is now with North(6) who by the way is married to Duane's daughter & exit'd to the Mohawk. We have a French Minister now with us(7)---;& if France had wish'd to destroy the little remembrance that is left of her & her exertions---;she would have sent just such a minister---;distant, haughty & penurious---;& entirely govern'd by the caprice of a little, singular, whimsical, hysterical old woman(8) whose delight is in playing with a Negro child and caressing a monkey. I wish to God we had paid our debts to our good ally & were well rid of her---;for there's some danger in remaining the connextion of a pow'r whose character I must just suggest my reason for it. For 'Tis so treasonable that I might else again be suspected of being a British Emissary. Twill be eno' to bid you remember her conduct to Corsica---;to Poland---;to Geneva---;to Holland & now to the Turks---;whom after 40 years connexion she abandons. I don't travell out of my own Memory for the oldest of these instances---;Your's which goes farther back will remember others. My idea however goes but to this---;that 'tis obviously our intrest to be but the distant acquaintance not the intimate friend of any European Pow'r. You will I beleive subscribe to this conclusion. We hope to have seen you to the No. this spring & indeed report went so far as to remove you entirely from Virginia & set you down either in Philada. or New York for life. I hope 'tis more than report alone---;& will even believe it to be so till you yourself contradict it. Be so good as to make my most respectful compliments to Mrs. Gates & accept for your happiness & her's my best wishes. Your affectionate friend & servant, J Armstrong jr. RC (NHi: Gates Papers). 1 Not found. 2 That is, Armstrong had declined an appointment as one of the judges of the Northwest Territory, for which see Armstrong to Charles Thomson, January 21, 1788. 3 Cf. Armstrong to Alida Livingston, July 27, note 1. 4 That is, William Stephens Smith. 5 Baron Steuben. 6 Maj. William North.

Page 130

May 30, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

7 That is, comte de Moustier. 8 That is, the marquise de Bréhan, who many Americans came to believe was living illicitly with Moustier.

William Bingham to Tench Coxe

Dear sir, New York May 30th 1788 I have made the necessary Enquiries to enable me to answer Some of the Questions in your Letter of the 24 Inst.(1) I find by the public Registers that the Number of Male Negro slaves in this state amounts to 9,521 & of females to 9,368, in which Statement is comprehended the Mulattoes of both Sexes. In the Census that fixed the Citizens of this state to 238,000, those of Vermont are not included. I have not been fortunate enough to procure the exact Boundaries of this latter State. They are I imagine rather arbitrary, as not being determined by any Authority, which New York acknowledges competent to decide. There are Some good Harbors in the Port of New York---;but I do not know the particular Spot, to which you allude. I inclose you a Pamphlet, which has considerable Merit, & has operated very forcibly on the Minds of the People here. The returns of the Delegates to the New York Convention have not as yet been forwarded to the City---;but it is expected that the antifŒderalists will have a Majority of 10 to 15---;the Number is 65---; but as yet, it is all Conjecture. New Hampshire may be depended upon & Advices from So Carolina for the Majority in favor of fŒderal Measures at about 50---; the Point was to be determined, the Day after the last Vessel Sailed. I am with Sincere regard, Dear sir, Your obedt hble serv, Wm Bingham RC (PHi: Coxe Papers). 1 Coxe was apparently accumulating information for his address "To the Honorable the Convention of the State of New- York," which he signed "A Pennsylvanian" and published in the June 11 issue of the Pennsylvania Gazette. See Cooke, Tench Coxe, pp. 121--;22.

Edward Carrington to James Madison

My dear Sir, New York May 30. 1788 The inclosed papers contain some of the debates of the Convention of South Carolina, and a vote of a vast majority, which shews the dispo-

Page 131

May 30, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

sitions of that Body upon the Constitution.(1) These papers will be of use to you, and therefore I take this the last moment that Offers before the departure of the post to forward them. I am my dr sir yrs. sincerely, Ed Carrington RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 That is, the New York Journal (May 29), which carried a second-hand account of convention proceedings, and the Daily Advertiser (May 29), which contained a notice from a Charleston newspaper of the defeat (by a vote of 135 to 89) of a motion to adjourn the convention until October.

James R. Reid to William Irvine

My dear Sir. New York 30th. May 1788. Yesterday we had Ten States upon the floor, this day Mr. Swan Colleague to Mr. Williamson has been innoculated and I do not expect he will be able to attend.(1) We have made considerable progress in the land Ordinance having got to the last paragraph but one. This day is big with the fate of Kentucky and the world. I will write you next Monday or as soon as we finish the Ordinance and liberate Kentucky. I received your letter dated at Philadelphia. Mr. Brown received his Bill. The authentic resolution with respect to delinquents accompanies this.(2) Give my love to our friends and expect punctual and early information of what is going on here from James R. Reid RC (PHi: Irvine Papers). Addressed: "The honble. General William Irvine Esqr., Carlisle." 1 John Swann took his seat in Congress on May 29. He attended again on June 2 and then was absent until June 18. See JCC, 34:186, 192, 234, 239; and the Appendix of this volume of Letters, pp. 542-43. 2 Presumably a reference to the unsettled accounts of "persons who have been entrusted with public monies." For Congress' May 22 resolution directing the board of treasury "to cause suits to be commenced in behalf of the United States against all [such] persons," see JCC, 34:169--;71.

Hugh Williamson to Samuel Johnston

Dear Sir. New York 30 May. 1788. On the day before yesterday Mr. Swann arrived here by water from Norfolk. Yesterday he took his Seat in Congress which for the first time since October last gave the State a Vote. Mr. Swann inoculated yesterday morning but expects that he will be seldom be prevented from doing duty.(1)

Page 132

May 30, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

To day Congress has received a very serious Complaint from the Minister of France concerning the Conduct of the Magestracy in one of the States protecting a French Pirate, another & mournful proof that unless we have a Federal Government we shall not long escape from the depredations of some Foreign Nation.(2) I was favored by your Excellencys Letter by Mr. Swann(3) but beg you to note that this is neither the third or fourth I have had the honor of writing or with which I may have troubled you already. I am &c Hugh Williamson Tr (Nc--;Ar: Governors' Letterbooks). 1 See the preceding entry. 2 This "very serious Complaint" from the comte de Moustier was submitted this day by John Jay to Congress, which referred it back to Jay for a report. Jay's June 6 report on the matter was referred in turn to a congressional committee consisting of Alexander Hamilton, Edward Carrington, Nathan Dane, Jonathan Dayton, and Samuel A. Otis, whose June 12 report was adopted by Congress June 13. The case involved the authority of the French consul in Virginia to try a French ship captain on charges of fraud and theft after landing in Norfolk. The French captain, Joseph Marie Anne Ferrier, had been released under the laws of Virginia after having confessed his crimes and was awaiting transportation to Nantes to be tried formally under French admiralty law. The French consul, Martin Oster, had presented the particulars of the case to the governor of Virginia as early as October 2, 1787, seeking permission to extradite Ferrier to France, and had renewed the request November 11 after receiving no answer. Virginia's refusal to honor Oster's request had led finally to Moustier's appeal to Jay and to Congress. In his June 6 report to Congress, Jay explained that he should discuss Ferrier's extradition with the governor of Virginia. But as the issue also involved the status of a consular convention between France and the United States, which had been under negotiation since 1784 and on which Thomas Jefferson had already been fully instructed, he argued that no attempt should be made to alter the course of those negotiations. Alexander Hamilton's June 12 committee report endorsed Jay's recommendations, and the following day Congress directed Jay to communicate the matter to the governor of Virginia "to the end that the said Executive may communicate to Congress the necessary information on the subject." The result was a protracted correspondence that failed to resolve the case before the demise of Congress in October, and which therefore had to await the ratification of a Franco-American consular convention by the new federal government, to which Jay submitted the issue in July 1789. For the congressional proceedings on the case, see JCC, 34:192, 206--;7, 212, 217--;22, 407, 550. For the lengthy correspondence relating to it, see Diplomatic Correspondence, 1783--;89, 1:253--;75. See also Virginia Delegates to Edmund Randolph, July 25, 1788. 3 Not found.

Edward Carrington to James Madison

My dear Sir, New York May 31. 1788 I had the pleasure to inclose you by the last post the British Act of Parliament upon the subject of our Trade.(1) You will now receive in one of the papers inclosed an ordinance of the Province of Quebec,

Page 133

May 31, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

for regulating the inland Commerce of that Province with the Neighbouring States, or in other words the U.S.(2) The intention doubtless is, that these two Acts, shall co- operate to give that Nation the use of our commodities, and at the same time the exclusive benefits of carrying them; and that of Quebec leads to another object, more remote, but if compassable, would be still more mischievous to us, the allurement of the Commerce, and with it, the Affections of our Western Inhabitants by means of the Lakes and the River St Lawrence, to that quarter. As to our Commercial intercourse with the West Indies, I have not a doubt that Great Britain may be made the dependent party, and therefore a wise policy on our part, supported by an energetic government, would give us the Controul of the Terms of intercourse. As to the other object, I hope that the influence of a better government than we have hitherto had; the improvement & extension of our inland Navigation, and the Free use of the Mississippi, added to the difficulties which from Climate attend that of the St Lawrence, will all Conspire to prevent its being effected. We are in hourly expectation of receiving information of the adoption of the constitution in South Carolina. I am my dr sir, your afft. Freind & Hl St., Ed. Carrington RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 See Carrington to Madison, May 28, note 4. 2 The Quebec ordinance of April 14 appeared in the New York Daily Advertiser of May 28.

Edward Carrington to Edmund Randolph

Sir, New York May 31, 1788 The Delegation having revived the former mode of Corresponding with your Excellency weekly, in Monthly rotation each, I have the Honor now to inclose an Act of the British Parliament, permanently establishing, with still additional impositions, the regulations which have for several years been exercised by order of the King, & Council upon the commercial intercourse of the United States with the Territories of that Kingdom; Also a paper containing an Ordinance of the province of Quebec to regulate the inland Commerce of that Province with the Neighbouring States, or in other Words, the United States.(1) It may easily be perceived that these two Acts are intended to Co-operate in giving to that Nation the use of our products, while she shall also secure to herself the exclusive benefits of carrying them, for in case of our adopting a policy so uniform and effectual, as to exclude her Bottoms from our ports, an easy and free passage is opened

Page 134

May 31, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

for all such of our Commodities as are wanted for her West India Islands, and for Naval Stores, to Quebec. There may still be another, though more remote object, the Allurement of the Commerce, and with that, the Affections of our Western Inhabitants by means of the Lakes and the River St. Lawrence, to her purposes. But at the same time that we may be sensible how much we are exposed, in various quarters, to the insiduous policy of this Nation, her solicitude is also discoverable for the acquisition of our Commodities, which evinces the vanity of the boasted competency of Canada & Nova Scotia, to the furnishing of her several demands. The truth is, the West India Islands are dependent for provisions, lumber, and many other things upon importations, and these articles are attainable from the United States on much lower terms than from any more distant Country: Naval Stores are also furnished by these States on such terms that it is an object with Great Britain to import them from us, not only for the West India Trading vessels, but also for her European Service. On the other hand what we derive from an intercourse with the West India Islands, are at best, but Articles of Luxury, nor is the production of them confined to the Territories of Great Britain; as to Naval Stores they are our own. Thus viewing the Matter, she is evidently the dependent party, and under a wise policy, supported by an energetic Government, might be made to accept, instead of presuming to prescribe, the Terms of Commercial intercourse. As to the other object, I hope that the benefits of a better Government than we have hitherto had, the improvement & extension of our inland Navigation, & the free use of the Mississippi, added to the difficulties which from climate attend that of the River St. Lawrence will all Conspire to prevent its being in any degree effected. I also have the Honor to inclose papers Containing some of the debates of the Convention of South Carolina(2) which indicate the good disposition of that Body towards the Constitution. I have the honor to [be], with great respect, your Excellencies Most Obt. servt. Ed. Carrington RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). 1 For which see Carrington to James Madison, May 28, note 4; and the preceding entry, note 2. 2 See Carrington to James Madison, May 30, note.

Abraham Yates to Abraham G. Lansing

Dr Sir New York 1 June 1788 I enclose you Maclains, Horners And Greeleafs papers.(1) If you Chuse I Can Continue them. These I get as often as they Come out and if you Chuse I Can furnish you With all or either of them.

Page 135

June 2, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Your News is verry agreable in Respect to the Assembly Election, And so a letter McKesson Received from Mr Ray Informing that the Anties had Carried in Columbia by a Majority of scarce 300 of the Lowest Anti to the Highest federal. But What I Can find Among the federalist here they are in hopes that the Anties will not Dare Refuse Adopting the Constitution, they may Indeed adjorn, And Adjorn Again---;but they will at Last Adopt it. It is Supposed by the federals that they Will be One third, the Anties Know at present of None but New York 9, Kings 2, Queen 2 & Westchester 6, Which is but 19---;the latter has been most Shamefully been taken in. It is expected that South Carolina Will Adopt the New Constitution. I wish they May not but wether they Do or not Will Make no Alteration With me nor do I think Ought to Make an Alteration in the State. I Remain Sr, Yours Affy Abr. Yates Junr P.S. I am well and Wish the family So. I have Sent With Jacob Pruin 4/ of Small Honny Cookies for the Children. RC (NN: Yates Papers). 1 That is, the New-York Daily Gazette, published by John and Alexander M'Lean; the New-York Morning Post, published by William Morton (formerly Samuel Horner); and the New-York Journal, published by Thomas Greenleaf.

Hugh Williamson to James Madison

Dear sir New York June 2nd 1788 By the Time this comes to Hand you will be pretty well engaged in discussing the new Constitution & attempting to convince men who came forward with the Resolution not to be convinced. Of all the wrong heads who have started in opposition none have been mentioned who appear to be so palpably wrong as the People of Kentucke. It is said that some antifed in Maryland on the last Winter fastened on the Ear of Genl Wilkinson who was accidentally there and persuaded him that in case of a new Govt. the Navigation of the Mississippi would infallibly be given up. Your Recollection must certainly enable you to say that there is a Proviso in the new Sistem which was inserted for the express purpose of preventing a majority of the Senate or of the States which is considered as the same thing from giving up the Mississippi. It is provided that two thirds of the Members present in the senate shall be required to concur in making Treaties and if the southern states attend to their Duty, this will imply of the States in the Union together with the President, a security rather better than the present 9 States especially as Vermont & the Province of Main may be added to

Page 136

June 2, 1778

LINK TO ANNALS

the Eastern Interest and you may recollect that when a Member, Mr Willson objected to this Proviso, saying that in all Govts. the Majority should govern, it was replyed that the Navigation of the Mississippi after what had already happened in Congress was not to be risqued in the Hands of a meer Majority and the Objection was withdrawn.(1) Certainly those gentlemen know that the River is at present shut not by right but by the Hand of Power and that under the existing Govt we are never like to be able to open it. It is true that we may readiry [sic] reduce the spanish Settlements on the Mississippi but that would not secure us any Exports; for a single Spanish Frigate would take every Vessel that we attempted to send out with Produce. And any Nation sending Vessels to take our Produce would expose such Vessels to Capture. On the Contrary under an efficient Govt. when we shall certainly have some Ships of War Spain will find herself under the Necessity of suffering our Produce to be exported. For myself I conceive that my opinions are not biassed by private Interest, but having claims to a considerable Quantity of Land in the Western Country I am fully persuaded that the Value of those Lands must be increased by an efficient federal Govt. It is clear that the Kentucke Gentlemen must have viewed this Subject in a difft Light, but I suspect that they have never fully examined the provision respecting Treaties. I am, Dr sir, Your most obedt Serv, Hu Williamson RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 For this September 8, 1787, debate on the treaty making power at the Constitutional Convention, see Farrand, Records of the Federal Convention, 2:547--;48.

Paine Wingate to Samuel Lane

Dear Sir New York June 2d. 1788. I had the satisfaction of receiving your favor of the fifteenth of May. I can assure you that it gives me particular pleasure to receive fresh tokens of your friendship & such communications as may serve to revive the remembrance of our former intimacy. At this time I am rather more in a hurry than is common, & therefore shall give you but an imperfect letter which I desire you will receive as a token of my esteem & respect. I am exceeding glad to hear from you that the prospect of the new constitution being adopted is so favorable, & that any converts have been made to that side. I am fully perswaded that wise and honest men if they knew the situation of our public affairs, would without hesitation agree with me. I have nothing which I am sensible of to byass [bias?] my mind in this matter but a hearty desire for the gen-

Page 137

June 2, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

eral good. We are in expectation every day of receiving an account from So. Carolina of their sati[s]fying the new plan, as we have information from their convention since met that there is a large majority in favor of it. Much depends now upon New Hampshire. Their example will have great weight, more than many are sensible of. If New Hampshire should come into the plan, which from the best accounts we rely upon, we have a good degree of probability that all the states will eventually unite. Our latest accounts from Europe are that our credit begins [to] revive there already, upon the presumption that our government will soon be upon a more respectable footing. We have now a pretty full Congress & expect soon to have all the states represented. We are at this time engagd in a matter of considerable consequence, that is, whether Kentucky which is the Western part of Virginia & which I think I gave you some account of heretofore, shall be erected into a distinct state. This will be an affair not easily settled. There are great difficulties on all sides. The commissioners who were appointd to judge how much the united states should pay Virginia for their expences in defending the western country during the war have reported half a million of dollars for us to pay.(1) This is no inconsiderable sum. Georgia have also made a cession to the united states of their western lands on condition of their being paid one hundred thousand dollars.(2) If we should have a few more such presents we should not know how to pay them. The expences of these purchases together with the expences of the Indian treaties & of surveying & disposing of those lands will create a very large debt. It is true the country is immensely large, is an excellent soil, & capable of supporting a vast number of inhabitants, but I think they will draw off our most valuable and enterprising young men & will impede the population of our old states & prevent the establishment of manufactures. Upon the whole I doubt whether in our day that country will not be a damage to us rather than an advantage. We seem to be overstocked with lands & I believe it had been as well for the Indians to have kept their own territory. For what news we have I must refer you to the papers enclosed. Should be obliged to you to give that which contains some account of bees to my wife with the letter to her directed. I hope you smoke your pipe with her sometimes. I am as well contented here as I expected, & enjoy good health. I am yet among strangers & should be more in my own element at home. I shall be glad to have any intelligence from you which you shall think fit to write. I have written to Capt. Jona Wiggin as you proprosed, & hope it may have some effect. You will excuse my cursory writing---;If you are able to read it & can derive any satisfaction from it my end is answered. I desire my respects to Mrs Lane & wishing your health & prosperity I am Dr Sir your friend & humble Servt., P Wingate

Page 138

June 2, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (MH--;H: Wingate Papers). 1 See Virginia Delegates to William Heth, April 20. 2 See Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon, May 3, note.

Charles Thomson's Memorandum Book

[June 3--;19, 1788] June 3d. Letters---;Sept. 30th. 1787---;two of the same date from the King of France---;respecting Chevalier Luzerne, and the Count De Moustier.(1) June 12th. transmitted to the Board of treasury---;papers enclosed in Meml. of John Halsted(2) ---;viz. Mr. Burrals report Sept. 27th, 1783. John Halsteds Acct. Current. Do. his Acct Current with the U.S. June 14th. transmitted to the Office f. f. Affairs to be filed---; Letter---;May 28th, 1788---;& papers accompanying the same from the Count de Moustier.(3) Letter---;Novr. 10th, 1787---;from Sr. John Temple, with the petition & papers of Richard Laurence.(4) 19th. Letter---;Oct. 16th. 1784. Godfrey Braumillier.(5) Baron de Beelin Bertholf.(6) Note...recd. dated Office f. f. Affairs, Sept. 14th, 1785 MS (DNA: PCC, item 187). In the hand of Roger Alden. A continuation of Thomson's Memorandum Book, May 14--;30, 1788. 1 For these letters from Louis XVI, see PCC, item 96, fols. 378--;83, 390--;95, 410; and PCC Miscellaneous Papers, M332, reel 5, fols. 359--;62. 2 For Halsted's September 12, 1783, memorial and enclosed accounts, as well as Congress' final action on it June 4, 1788, see PCC, item 41, 2:142--;50; and JCC, 25:553n, 596--;97, 636, 677, 34:201. See also Robert Morris' Diary, October 29, 1783, Morris, Papers (Ferguson), vol. 8 (forthcoming). 3 See JCC, 34:219-22; and PCC, item 96, fols. 428-32. 4 See JCC, 34:222-26; and PCC, item 42, 4:442-43, item 92, fols. 524-31. 5 This letter from John Gottfir Braumüller, with an English translation, is in PCC, item 59, 3:73-76. 6 For this letter from the baron de Beelen Bertholff, see ibid., fols. 89-96.

Hugh Williamson to John Gray Blount

Dear sir New York 3rd June 1788 On the last Year an Accot was taken of the Exports from the sundry Ports in our State by Order of Govr. Caswell.(1) The Exports from Cur-

Page 139

June 5, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

rituck, Roanoke & Wilmington I have, but by some means those from Bath & Newbern never came into my Hands. I wish much to have them. Will you be so good as try to forward them. Any Body may take them from the Books in the mode that will suffice in 7 minutes viz for the Year 1785. Amot. Pipe Staves . . . . Thousd. Hhd Do . . . . Thd. Brl Do. . . . . Shingles . . . . Thousd. . . . . Hhds Tobacco . . . . Brls Tar . . . . Pitch . . . . Turpentine . . . . feet Plank . . . . Bshls Corn. There have as I conceive been exported few other articles of importance except perhaps Pork, Tur., Timber &c. All Eyes here are looking with Hope or fear towards Virga. The opposition have great Confidence in the mulish obstinacy of P Henry, Mason & R H Lee. We all admire the beautiful Trope of Col. Mason at the Court House in the County where he was elected. You may have been taught said he to respect the Characters of the Members of the late Convention. You may have supposed that they were an assemblage of great Men. There is nothing less true. From the Eastern States there were Knaves and Fools from the states southward of Virga. They were a parcel of Coxcombs and from the middle States Office Hunters not a few. Col. Graysons Trope of Rhetoric was more to the feelings of Virginians. He harangued the People at the Court House having in his Hand a snuff Box hardly so broad as a Moidore. The Point of finger and Thumb are inserted with difficulty. Perhaps said he you may think it of Consequence that some other States have accepted of the new Constitution, what are they? When compared to Virginia they are no more than this snuff Box is to the Size of a Man. On being asked afterwards by an intimate, why he had risqued such an assertion. There was not any short-Handman present said he. The Convention in this State meets on the 17th Inst. as does that of N Hampshire. There is a Line of Communication established by which we are told the New Yorkers at Pokepsie for I think they are to sit there, may hear within 40 Hours what is done in New Hampshire. Be so good as present Mrs. Blount with my respects & assure her that I am with the utmost Consideration her's & Yr. most obedt hble Servt, Hu Williamson RC (Nc--;Ar: Blount Papers). 1 Cf. William Blount to Richard Caswell, December 30, 1786.

John Brown to Matthew Walton

Dear Sir(1) New York June 5th. 1788 In consequence of a letter I reced. from Colo Crockett I did my self the honor to write to you upon the Subject of the Civil List Warrants

Page 140

June 5, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

purchased from you & delivered to him. As he informed me that he could not pass them I requested you to take them back & satisfy him to the Amount; this I presumed had been done untill a few days ago when I reced. a letter from Mr John Smith informing that Capt Craddock had sent them in with him with directions to draw the Money at Richmond & pay it to Crocketts Order, but he further informs that he cannot get Cash for them from the Treasury & requests to know what he shall do with them. I have written to him to apply to you about them & if he cannot meet with you to dispose of them to the best advantage & apply the money to Crocketts Order. I wish you to take such steps in this Business as will enable him to make payment to Colo Crockett who has been kept out of his money much longer than could have wished. We are all waiting with the utmost anxiety & impatience to hear the fate of the new Constitution in Virginia, the final adoption or rejection of it in a great measure depends upon the determination of her Convention of which I have heard with pleasure that you are a Member. I have heard that the Delegates from Kentucky are all in the Opposition. I am at a loss to account for the general disaffection of that District to a System of Government upon which in my opinion the peace & Glory of the United States depend. I have carefully examined the proposed plan as it may affect the District in particular & must candidly assure that I have not been able to discover that it contains principles partially injurious to the Interest of Kentucky. We have nothing to fear respecting the Navigation of the Mississipi a total change of Policy with respect to that Subject has taken place not only in Congress but throughout the Eastern States. Our political System is in a wretched situation wholely inadequate to the purposes of Government. A change must take place & in my Opinion we cannot under our present Circumstances obtain a better than the plan proposed. Congress have determind that Kentucky ought to be admitted in to the Union & have referrd it to a Committee consisting of a Member from each State to examine whether by the Articles of Confederation power is delegated to Congress for that purpose, if not to frame an Additional Article vesting in them the Necessary power to be submitted to the different States for their ratification.(2) I expect this will be the result & that we shall not be admitted at the present time. I shall be able to inform you with more certainty in a few days as the Committee are to meet tomorrow. Pray write to me by every post & inform me fully the News of Kentucky. I shall set out for that Country in July by the rout of Fort Pitt. My best Complts to my friends from that Country on Convention. I am in great haste, Yo. Mo. Obt. J Brown

Page 141

June 5, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (KyLoF: Miscellaneous Papers). 1 Matthew Walton represented Nelson County in several of the ten conventions beginning in 1784 that led to Kentucky statehood in 1792, when he was elected as a representative to the first assembly and appointed as a militia major and quarter session judge by Gov. Isaac Shelby. See Karen M. Green, The Kentucky Gazette, 1787--;1800: Genealogical and Historical Abstracts (Baltimore: Gateway Press, 1983), pp. 48, 54, 57--;58; and George M. Chinn, Kentucky Settlement and Statehood, 1750--;1800 (Frankfort: Kentucky Historical Society, 1975), pp. 439, 446, 448, 460. 2 See JCC, 34:194, 198. For the context of this June 2--;3 action, see Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson, November 10, 1787, note 3.

Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon

Dear Sir. New York June 5th 1788 I do myself the honor to forward the enclosed paper, which contains an account of the ratification of the new System by the Convention of South Carolina. No official accounts have yet come to hand; but there seems to be no reason to doubt the authenticity of the one enclosed; it being correspondent to preceeding accounts of the temper of the Convention, written by one of the delegates to a member of Congress, Subsequent to a proposition for an adjournment & received by the last Charles Town Packet. Accounts from Virginia are rather favorable but among the delegates to the Convention of New York, I have no doubt, there is a large majority against the question. Notwithstanding the Convention of Virginia is now in session I hope New Hampshire will have the honor of being the ninth State in accession to the system and I beg leave to suggest that it is considered a matter of great importance that we have an account of the ratification here before the Convention of this State come to a decision as they will be influenced more by our proceedings than by the doings of Virginia. I am happy to hear that the people in Vermont are federally inclined and much in favor of the new Contitution. With the greatest Respect & Esteem, I have the Honor to be, Dear sir, Your Most Obedient & Humble Servant, N. Gilman RC (Capt. J.G.M. Stone, Annapolis, Md., 1973).

Samuel A. Otis to Benjamin Lincoln

Dear Sir New York 5th June 1788 The elections of the year betoken unanimity & decision in the Councils of old Massachusetts, And I am the more rejoiced as they will

Page 142

June 5, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

contradict opinions industriously circulated which hold up an Idea of our being torn with party, & divided in sentiments. The accession of S Carolina is an event which strengthens our expectations that a reform will take place in fŒderal measures, and these are rational, from the impression that it w[aits?] upon Verginia & No Carolina. Enclosed are the papers containing all the News in this quarter, And with my kind regards to my niece & connexions remain, Your friend & most huml sert, Sam. A. Otis RC (MHi: Lincoln Papers). Rhode Island Delegates to John Collins Sir, New York the 5 of June 1788. We Consider that it is our duty to Inform your Excellency of our Safe arival here,(1) and a[l]tho from the Shortness of the Time we are unable to give a particular account of the business before Congress we in General inform, That there is Several matters of importance under Consideration, One of which is the Dividing of the State of Virginia and thereby making a Fourteenth State by the Name of Kentucky. It appears by the acts of the Legislature of that State that they have agreed to that measure & there is a memorial from the Inhabitants of that Country for that purpose now before Congress. The Expediency of Such a measure At this Time we Submit to your Excellencies Consideration without making any Comment thereon. There is at this Time Eleven States Represented and when any matters of Importance to the Union are acted upon we Shall Emediately Communicate them. We are under the Necessity of informing your Excellency that it is Necessary for the State to make further provision for our Support which we Desire may be done in Such manner as to be least Injurous to the State and be productive of the greatest advantage to us. We do not presume to dictate but Submit wheather it would not be the most Eligible mode to appoint a person in the State to receive Such Sum of money as the Honble. Assemb[l]y grant and Supply us with the net proceeds of it. By this means we Shall be furnish'd much Sooner, and Releav'd from the great Inconveniency that will attend on us if Directed to Draw the money when at this distance from the State. With perfect Respect and Esteem, We have the Honor to be, your Excellencys Most Obedt. & Humble Servts, Peleg Arnold Jona. J. Hazard

Page 143

June 6, 1778

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (R--;Ar: Letters to Governors). Written by Arnold and signed by Arnold and Hazard. 1 For the arrival of Arnold and Hazard, who took their seats in Congress May 6 and June 2, respectively, see JCC, 34:141, 193.

Alexander Hamilton to John Sullivan

Dear Sir: New York, June 6, 1788. You will no doubt have understood that the Antifederal party has prevailed in this State by a large majority.(1) It is therefore of the utmost importance that all external circumstances should be made use of to influence their conduct. This will suggest to you the great advantage of a speedy decision in your State, if you can be sure of the question, and a prompt communication of the event to us. With this view, permit me to request that the instant you have taken a decisive vote in favor of the Constitution, you send an express to me at Poughkeepsie.(2) Let him take the shortest route to that place, change horses on the road, and use all possible diligence. I shall with pleasure defray all expenses, and give a liberal reward to the person. As I suspect an effort will be made to precipitate us, all possible safe dispatch on your part, as well to obtain a decision as to communicate the intelligence of it, will be desirable. MS not found; reprinted from Hamilton, Papers (Syrett), 5:2. 1 In the April elections for the New York ratifying convention, the antifederalists won 46 seats, carrying nine counties, while the federalists won only four counties and 19 seats. Ibid., 4:648n.3. 2 Hamilton was in Poughkeepsie for the opening of the New York ratifying convention on June 17, probably having left New York with the federalist delegates who departed with fanfare the 14th, for which see Abraham Yates to Abraham Lansing, June 15.

Samuel A. Otis to Theodore Sedgwick

Dear Sir New York 6th June 1788 After my congratulations upon the respectable elections of the present year, Give me leave to add them upon the favorable appearances from the South. Verginia is now in Convention, And must be influenced by the unanimity of Maryland, and the more recent accession of So. Carolina by a majority of two to one. The Gentlemen here, most acquainted with the affairs of Verginia, entertain the strongest hopes, but so great is the object, not without a degree of anxiety for the event. North Carolina looks well at present, and will certainly join the list unless Verginia should be so unfortunate as to stand out, In which case N Carolina may wavor.

Page 144

June 6, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

In NY the opposition is powerful, but I think they will play the politician, procrastinate until the determination of Verginia & N Hamshire is known. If they assent Join them. Congress have been so closely pressed with an application from Kentucky that the question cannot be parryed much longer. It is of great importance to the E states to bring Vermont forward; But this cannot be done without the agency of that State, Which for reasons of which I am not apprised is quite passive. No objection could operate against these measures if they went hand in hand; And really the arguments in favor of Kentucky are powerful. They have near one hundred thousand inhabitants at the immense distance of 800 miles from the seat of Government. They are courted by other powers to reject their allegiance to the USA. Their darling hope of opening the Missisippi is cherished by those who wish ill to the Union. And Verginia are, however extraordinary it may appear, not only willing but sanguine for the measure. The other business of Congress is detailed to the Legislature in our official letter directed to the Governour.(1) And some few matters not proper for a public communication are made to confidential friends in the hands of my old & tried friend Mr Davis;(2) To whom, and to the numerous list in both Houses that I have the felicity of puting in the same class, you will present me very respectfully. In expectation of seeing you here upon the recess of the General Court I am, Sir, your most Huml Sev, Sam A Otis(3) RC (MHi: Sedgwick Papers). 1 See Massachusetts Delegates to John Hancock, May 27. 2 See Otis to Caleb Davis, May 27. 3 Otis also wrote the following private letter to a "Mr Greenleaf" the following day. As it is addressed only to "Mr Greenleaf," it seems likely that it was hand delivered to a person in New York City, but as Greenleaf was about to leave the city and would be away indefinitely, he was probably not the New York printer Thomas Greenleaf. "My Dear Sir, You need be under no kind of apprehension that your affair with Mr H however public it may become will injure your reputation. Your universally polite modest & obliging demeanour must forever rest the blame upon that rash & unfortunate man; And the spirit & firmness with which you vindicated your honor must endear you to your friends, and encrease the reputation you had before acquired. "I had anticipated your intimations in a letter to Mr D, I only regret that my pen cannot do you Justice. As you leave Town before I can have oppy of paying you my personal respects, Permit me to wish you an agreeable Journey, not only to Philadelphia but thro life---;And to assure you you I shall esteem it a favor to be inserted in the list of your Correspondents Promising the exactest attention upon my part whenever I can communicate any thing that will profit or amuse. With my Compliments to Mr & Mrs Ingraham, accept my assurances of being with much esteem, Your friend & Most Huml Sert, Sam A Otis." Etting, Old Congress Collection, Phi.

Page 145

June 6, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Pennsylvania Delegates to Benjamin Franklin

Sir, [June 6? 1788](1) We have the Honor to enclose you the Report of a Committee of Congress, respecting a Survey, to fix the Boundaries, & determine the Quantity of the Territory adjoining the State of Pennsylvania, belonging to the United States, as well as the Terms on which the Board of Treasury is authorized to dispose of the Same.(2) We shall wait for the Instructions of the Honble the Supreme Executive Council, whether to make an Offer for the indefinite Quantity that may be contained within the Boundaries of the Said Tract, or suspend the Negotiation, untill the Amount is precisely ascertained by Survey.(3) We would recommend the former Mode, as most conducive to the Interests of the State of Pennsylvania, & most effectually guarding against the Cupidity of private Speculators.(4) We have the Honor to be with Respect, sir, Your Excellency's most obd & very hble servants, Wm Bingham James R. Reid RC (DLC: Bingham Collection). Written by Bingham and signed by Bingham and Reid. 1 The assignment of this date rests upon the date of the delegates' enclosure, a June 6 resolution of Congress, for which see JCC, 34:202--;3. 2 For the enclosed report concerning Pennsylvania's northwestern limits and the terms upon which the state might contract for additional lands to augment its Lake Erie boundary, see JCC, 34:83--;84, 202--;3; and Pennsylvania Delegates to Peter Muhlenberg, February 28, 1788. 3 For the Pennsylvania Council's June 14 resolution authorizing the state's delegates "to negotiate and contract with Congress, in behalf of this State, for the purchase of the lands before described, at the rate of three-quarters of a dollar per acre in specie or public securitys bearing interest," see Pa. Council Minutes, 15:473; and Pa. Archives, 1st ser. 11:313--;14. See also Pennsylvania Delegates to the Board of Treasury, July 7. 4 Massachusetts' interest in this case and some of the far- reaching ramifications of this issue are discussed in the following June 23 letter written by Nathaniel Gorham at Boston to Nathan Dane. "Mr. Otis last week informed me that Congress had ordered Mr. Hutchins to run the Line between the State of N York and the United States as also between the U S. and Massachusetts---;from which I am led to suppose that Congress expect to avail themselves of a large triangular piece of land within the Jurisdiction of New York. In order to do which I conceive it is necessary to prove that Massachuse[tts] has a well grounded claim to Teritory west of Hudsons River, which never can be done as she has given up that claim and I have a right now to say that if she had not given it up she never could have made it good and how Congress can hold under an undetermined or with drawn claim I know not. The right which Massachusetts has to the Land within the State of N York is the same that you or I might have vizt. by an instrument under hand and seal,

Page 146

June 6, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

and the conditions required in that Cession must be complied with before Massachu'ts or any under her can have a Legal title to the Land. Massachusetts has sold the whole of this right with a power of compliance with all the conditions to individuals. I have therefore no conception that Congress can make good any claim---;as the Jurisdiction must be determined by the NY cession consiquently the property must be determined by the Laws of that State---;and they will I presume know no rule but their own cession and Laws for governing property---;and it is easy to se[e] that they will not be prejudiced in favor of the Congressional claim---;as that must be founded on Mass. having a charter right to that country which NY have allways denied. "I must beg you to examine the NY and Mass. cession---;and the grant from NY to Mass. and give me your opinion on the subject---;and allso to write me how this business originated in Congress." MBevHi; and Burnett, Letters, 8:755.

Rhode Island Delegates to John Collins

Sir, New York 6th June 1788. We are inform'd that from a variaty of causes the State of Rhode-Island will be prevented from Exhibiting for Settlement their Clames against the United States within the time Limited by Resolve of Congress; If it is found Necessary for the Time to be Lengthin'd, we Desire to have Instructions from the State for that purpose Seting forth the Reasons which makes this application Necessary. There is an application from the State of Verginia for Lengthining the Time for that State now before Congress(1) ---;and if Rhode Island find it necessary to apply, we think the Sooner the more likely to obtain. We are with respect your Excellencys most obdt. & Humble Servts., Peleg Arnold Jona. J. Hazard RC (R--;Ar: Letters to Governors). Written by Arnold and signed by Arnold and Hazard. 1 For the three-month extension subsequently granted to the states by Congress, see Charles Thomson to the States, June 24. See also Edward Carrington to Edmund Randolph, June 9, note.

John Brown to James Madison

Sir New York June 7th. 1788 I was honord a few days ago by your favor of the 27th May(1) for which accept my thanks. It gives me no small concern to find that the People of Kentucky are not to expect your Assistance in the important Business of framing a Constitution which they have so shortly in View.(2) At the time I took the liberty to trouble you with the request I was well aware of the multiplicity of your engagements, but flattered myself that from your fa-

Page 147

June 7, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Portrait of John Brown

Page 148

June 7, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

miliarity with the Subject of Government a few leisure hours would have enabled you to have drawn at least the outlines of a Plan which must have greatly facillitated the execution of their undertaking & might have been effectual in preventing those fundamental errors which from want of experience & proper attention to the Subject there is but too much reason to apprehend will take place in any System they may form. Perhaps this may still be in your power as their Convention is not to meet before the last week in July. The President informs me that he has sent you a Copy of a Resolution which Congress passed relative to the Seperation of Kentucky.(3) This contains all that has been done upon that Subject & I fear all that will be done. From the Hudson eastwardly all the members are opposed to do any thing further in this Business than to frame an Ordinance for the admission of Kentucky to be refered to the different States & ratified by them individually or to obtain from the States the ratification of an Additional Article to the Confederation vesting powers in Congress for that purpose. Either of these plans virtually amounts to a denyal of the present Application as the Compact between Vrga. & the District becomes void if not ratifyed by Congress before the 4th of July. Colo Hamilton heads the Opposition from the apprehension that a compliance might embarrass the New Constitution---;he is supported by all the eastern States least it might add to the Southern Interest. I suppose Kentucky will assume her independence as it cannot be expected that she will continue in her present situation untill she can be admitted under the New Government & I am inclined to believe that no application under the present will be successfull. When thus forced into unconstitutional measures 'tis difficult to say how far they may proceed. I fear the contracted policy of the present Congress will be productive of Consequences ruinous to the tranquility of that promising Country; or to the importance & dignity of the United States; & perhaps to both. My disappointment in this Business has in a great measure prevented those exertions which I intended to remove the Objections of the Delegates from that Country to the New Constitution. Any Arguments which I could with propriety urge presuppose their admission into the Union---;this at present will not be granted & all the letters I have recd. from the District hold out the Idea that they are determined not to make a second application. I have in general terms written to some of them that it is decidedly my opinion that there is not any thing to be apprehended relative to the Navigation of the Mississipi & that they ought to adopt the plan proposed. Indeed my mind is & for some time has been so irritated that I have avoided writing to my friends from the District now at Richmond my expectations respecting their independence least I might drop something which might have a similar effect upon them. I hope you have a decided majority without them & that the ninth Pillar may be raised in Virga. I am in haste, Sir, With esteem, Yo Mo Hble Servt., J Brown

Page 149

June 7, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 For which see Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:59--;60. 2 See Brown to Madison, May 12, note 5. 3 No such letter from Pres. Cyrus Griffin has been found, but for this June 2--;3 resolution, see JCC, 34:194, 198. For the context in which it was adopted, see Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson, November 10, 1787, note 3.

Nathan Dane to Moses Brown

Dear Sir(1) New York. June 7. 1788 I recieved your friend[l]y letter of 22d Ulto. The causes you ask for not writing sooner in answer to my letter are unnecessary---;tho I should be glad to hear from you every week and wish you to write to me as often as times and circumstances will permit; yet it is my wish to place all my correspondences with my freinds on a footing unembarrassed with forms, ceremonies and needless punctualities---; whenever any thing material shall occur I Shall communicate it to you with pleasure and satisfaction. At present I have the pleasure to convey to you the information respecting the adoption of the Constitution in South Carolina, contained in the enclosed Newspaper. The Number in favor of the adoption was 149---;against 73---;majority 76. You will perceive that State has in some measure adopted Massachusetts ideas about some future alterations, and well as Maryland has copied after Massachusetts in the mode of expressing her satisfaction and Joy on the occasion. As to the other States North Carolina & Virginia I can add nothing with certainty---;however the probability is in favor of their adopting the Constitution. I do not know what this State will do---;their elections for the Convention have gone rather more than two to one against it. However I am not fully convinced that the opposition will insist upon making their amendments conditions to the adoption, or to precede it rather than to accompany it as amendments recommended. We have eleven States now in Congress and in a few days shall, probably, have thirteen---;eight States have made returns of their acts ratifying the Constitution---;in the course of this month it is likely nine will have made returns, when the subject of putting the new system into operation will be taken up in Congress. I am very uncertain when Congress will direct the new Government to meet---;if this state shall not adopt it---;it will not I suppose meet here. I shall be very unwilling to have it assemble in Philadelphia---;for if it should, I doubt whether it will ever be able to move from that place---;and I think it a very improper place for the permanent residence of the federal Government. I think with you that our public affairs are taking a favourable turn---;the revolution popular harrangues made to effect it, and various circumstances have thrown us into the extremes of disorder on the popular side. We have experienced the evils of a Government popular in its

Page 150

June 7, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

principles and too popular, on many occasions at least in its administration. We are coming back and I have for sometime felt anxious that the political pendulum may stop in the proper medium, and in that point only will it rest and things be quiet, the laws Steady, property secured and industry encouraged. There is I see a very good Senate for the present year in Massa. and I think a majority of the house are the right kind of men---;but on examining the list I think there is a very large number some of whom have no opinions of their own and some of whom have opinions perhaps not very favourable to order & good government. The evils of the numerous prosecutions which have lately taken place in the State and of which you make mention I conceive may, without much difficulty, be Stop'd by the legislature, by properly renewing the State of limitation touching such prosecutions. I think the statutes of limitations in G. Britain and formerly in Massa. did not allow of such prosecutions after several years had elapsed. Every law ought to be attended to which will have a tendency to fix the people in the habits of peace, industry and friendship. We are not Spartans to live on black broth or to be pleased with perpetual tumults & wars. Nor are we a people whose Spirits are broken and disposed to submit to an arbitrary will. We are in the mean Stages of society, in which protection and obedience, property, law, and liberty are all to be respected. Please to give my respects to Mrs. Brown. I am very sorry to hear of her feeble state of health. Give my respects also to your partner Capt Thorndike & Mrs. Thorndike---;tell Capt Thorndike I hope he will attend the General Court. I expect to write to him in a few days concerning some affairs of the union that it will be necessary for our legislature to attend to this Session. Pray inform me how our new affairs, the bridge and manufactory succeed from time to time. I feel more interested the undertakings should succeed than for the small property I have in them. With sentiments of the highest este[em] & friendship, I am dr Sir, Your's N. Dane RC (MBevHi: Moses Brown Papers). 1 Moses Brown has been identified in these Letters, 18:598. 2 Dane apparently enclosed this day's issue of either the New York Journal or the Daily Advertiser, both of which carried the story of South Carolina's ratification. 3 That is, Larkin Thorndike, representative to the Massachusetts General Court from Beverly. Charles Thomson to John Sandford Dart Sir Office of Secy of Congress, June 7. 1788 Yesterday I had the honor to receive by Mr Kean your letter of 28 May(1) with 13 copies of the Acts and ordinances passed by the Legisla-

Page 151

June 7, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

ture of South Carolina during their session of Feby 1788. Those which I recd. before these were passed in March 1787. I apprehend a session must have intervened between these two because I do not find among those recd. an Act for calling a state Convention to consider the New Constitution. If this should be the case I must request the favour of you to transmit to me by the first safe conveyance 13 Copies of the acts that may have been passed between March 1787 & Feby 1788.(2) I have the honor to be, Sr, Your obedt humble Servt, C LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). Addressed: "John Sanford Dart Esq, Clerk of the house of Representatives---;So Carolina." 1 Dart's May 28 letter is in PCC, item 78, 8:229--;32. 2 Dart's July 7 reply, transmitting "thirteen Copies of the Resolutions of the Legislature of this State, for calling a State Convention to consider the new Constitution," is at ibid., pp. 233--;36.

Charles Thomson to John Jay

Sir, Office of Secretary of Congress, June 7 1788 Congress have considered your letter of the 4th, wherein you inform them that "the city and county of New York have elected you one of their deputies to the state convention, which is to meet on the 17th instant at Poughkeepsie to consider and decide on the proposed federal Constitution---;that if it be agreeable to Congress you will attend, if not you will decline the appointment" and request their directions on the subject.(1) In answer to your letter I have it in charge to inform you that if you incline to attend the Convention, you have leave of absence for the purpose.(2) With great respect, I have the honor to be, Sir, Your obedient humble Servt, Cha Thomson FC (DNA: PCC, item 55). In the hand of Charles Thomson. 1 For Jay's letter, see PCC, item 80, 3:524; and JCC, 34:207. 2 No formal action on Jay's letter is recorded in the journals of Congress, but the endorsement on it indicates that it was referred to the secretary of Congress "to take order---;to inform Mr Jay he has leave of absence to attend the Convention if he chuse." Ibid.

Charles Thomson to Edmund Randolph

Sir Office of Secy of Congress. June 7th, 1788. I have the honor to transmit to Your Excellency herewith enclosed An Act passed by the United States in Congress Assembled touching

Page 152

June 7, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

the expences attending the service of Mr David Henley, third Commissioner appointed to adjust and settle the claims of Virginia on Account of the western territory ceded by that commonwealth to the United States.(1) With great respect, I have the honor to be, Your Excellency's Most Obedient & Most Humble servant, Cha Thomson RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). Addressed: "His Excellency The Governour of Virginia." 1 For the enclosed June 4 resolves, adopted on the recommendation of the board of treasury to whom a June 11, 1787, memorial from Henley had been referred, see JCC, 32:308n, 34:201--;2.

Charles Thomson to the States

Sir Circular Office of Secretary of Congress, June 7th. 1788. I have the honor to transmit to Your Excellency herewith enclosed to be laid before the Legislature a state of the representation in Congress for the month of May.(1) With the greatest respect, I have the honor to be, Your Excellency's Most Obedient & Most Humble servant, Cha Thomson RC (InHi: Mitten Collection of Presidents of Congress). Addressed: "His Excellency The Governour of Connecticut." LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). 1 For this enclousure and the seven other monthly attendance lists sent to the states during the Congress of 1788, see Appendix, pp. 537-46

Nathan Dane to Alexander Hodgdon

Sir(1) New York June 8. 1788 I a few days Since received a letter from Mr. Higginson in which he mentions that he has not received the £100 due to him from the Treasury on my draught. As I made the negociation with him expecting there would be no failure, I shall feel myself extremely obliged to you to make arrangements, to pay him, the first opportunity that you may have in your power---;so well acquainted, I am fully persuaded, you are with the affairs of the Treasury, that I need not mention how much the small credit it has must be effected by any failure in cases where such particular negociations are made. As Mr. Higginson when he wrote to me requested that I would write you on the subject, Allow

Page 153

June 8, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

me, Sir, only to urge you to do the best you can in the Case. I am by no means insensible of the difficulties you have to encounter in that office in the present barren State of the Treasury. I expect to be in Massa. sometime in July and to return to New York about the first of August. I shall want some monies from the Treasury for paying my expences there for the residue of the year. By the enclosed paper you will perceive that South Carolina has adopted the Constitution---;members for the adoption 149, against 73, majority 76. Virginia is now in Session. Tho nothing can be said with certainty as to her conduct yet the probability appears to be that she will adopt it. About two thirds of the members of the Convention in this State chosen are considered as against the Constitution but I do think the people of the State are against it in that proportion. With great esteem & regard, Your most obedt. humble servant, N. Dane RC (MeHi: Fogg Collection). 1 Alexander Hodgdon was the treasurer of Massachusetts.

Pierpont Edwards to Asa Spalding

Dear Sir,(1) New York June 8th 1788 Pray write me by the return of post informing very circumstantially how you have settled Maunsells B[on]d against Johnson &---;for News I refer you to my letter to Mr Huntington.(2) If I can serve you or any of your friends while here I shall do it with pleasure. I am Sir with Sentiments of Esteem & friendship, Your very Hl Serv, Pierpont Edwards(3) RC (CtHi: Ms 73903). Addressed: "Asa Spalding Esq." 1 Asa Spalding, formerly captain of a Norwich company of light infantry, was Connecticut collector of the excise in 1789--;90. Public Records of Connecticut, 6:30, 168, 7:73, 349. 2 Not found. 3 Edwards also wrote the following letter to his daughter Susan on June 14. "I wrote you [not found] by the last post save one, and shoud have written again by the last, but I dined abroad on that Day, and did not return untill the office Hours were over. I hope your not writing me was not occasioned by ill Health or any adverse occurence. I have nothing new to communicate, other than what I have mentioned in your Mamma's Letter [not found]. Pray omit not to write me by every post especially while your Mamma is gone to No[r]thampton. Inform me of the Health of the family and of every circumstance in which you can suppose me in the least interested." General MS, NjP.

Page 154

June 8, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Alexander Hamilton to James Madison

My Dear Sir [New York, June 8, 1788] In my last(1) I think I informed you that the elections had turned out, beyond expectation, favourable to the AntifŒderal party.(2) They have a majority of two thirds in the Convention and according to the best estimate I can form of about four sevenths in the community. The views of the leaders in this City are pretty well ascertained to be turned towards a long adjournment say till next spring or Summer. Their incautious ones observe that this will give an opportunity to the state to see how the government works and to act according to circumstances. My reasonings on the fact are to this effect. The leaders of the party hostile to the constitution are equally hostile to the Union. They are however afraid to reject the constitution at once because that step would bring matters to a crisis between this state and the states which had adopted the Constitution and between the parties in the state. A separation of the Southern district from the other part of the state it is perceived would become the object of the FŒderalists and of the two neighbouring states. They therefore resolve upon a long adjournment as the safest and most artful course to effect their final purpose. They suppose that when the Government gets into operation it will be obliged to take some steps in respect to revenue &c. which will furnish topics of declamation to its enemies in the several states and will strengthen the minorities. If any considerable discontent should show itself they will stand ready to head the opposition. If on the contrary the thing should go on smoothly and the sentiments of our own people should change they can then elect to come into the Union. They at all events take the chances of time and the chapter of accidents. How far their friends in the Country will go with them I am not able to say, but as they have always been found very obsequious we have little reason to calculate upon an uncompliant temper in the present instance. For my own part the more I can penetrate the views of the AntifŒderal party in this state, the more I dread the consequences of the non adoption of the Constitution by any of the other states, the more I fear an eventual disunion and civil war. God grant that Virginia may accede. Her example will have a vast influence on our politics. New Hampshire, all accounts give us to expect, will be an assenting state. The number of the volumes of the FŒderalist which you desired have been forwarded as well the se[c]ond as first, to the care of Governor Randolph. It was impossible to correct a certain error.(3) In a former letter I requested you to communicate to me by express the event of any decisive question in favour of the constitution authorising changes of horses &c with an assurance to the person sent that he will be liberally paid for his diligence.

Page 155

June 9, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (DLC: Madison Papers). In Hamilton's hand; signature, and place and dateline clipped. Docketed by Madison: "A Hamilton, 8 June 1788." Hamilton, Papers (Syrett), 5:2--;4. 1 See ibid., 4:649--;50. 2 See Hamilton to John Sullivan, June 6, note 1. 3 See ibid., p. 650nn.5--;8.

Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson

My dear Sir, New York June 9. 1788 I had the honor to write you by the last packet by Mr. Barlow and Master G. W. Greene,(1) since which South Carolina has acceded to the new Constitution by a great Majority. The inclosed papers contain the act, and some of the debates of the convention.(2) Virginia is now sitting, having met last Monday, but we have not yet received any intelligence as to the probable turn the business will take there. I am inclined to think the critical stage in which this convention meets the affair, will have much influence upon the opinions of many who sat out in the opposition. In adopting they will certainly avoid Commotion, and, at worst, accept a constitution upon which eight States have already agreed to hazard their happiness, and which may be amended, should it be found to operate badly; in rejecting they may produce commotion, with but little prospect of preventing the adoption. The five States who have not yet acceded, would never agree in their objects, and could even this be brought about, they must at last rather yeild to the 8, than these to the five; and it appears that the submission on either side must be intire, for should the 8 think of a compromise with the 5, there would be difficulty in agreing what points to yeild. These considerations will, I apprehend, have their effect in the convention of Virginia, & produce an issue different from that which might have taken place under other circumstances. I am happy to find that the five are so separated that there cannot be a possible effort, to Unite in an attempt to dismember the union. Had the southern States joined in opinion as to the constitution, I verily believe such a desperate step would have been tried, but it would have ended in their destruction, and perhaps that of all the others. Mr. Madison & myself have sent you sundry Pamphlets and pieces which have been written by the Friends of the constitution;(3) I have endeavoured to select from those which have been written on the other side, that which is reputed the best, to send you now, that you may fairly judge of the arguments brought forward amongst us pro & Con. The two Books enclosed contain a number of letters under the signature of the Federal Farmer, but the Author is not known. These letters are reputed the best of any thing that has been written in the opposition.(4)

Page 156

June 9, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

I hope by the next opportunity to be able to send you the second volume of the Federalist. I have the Honor to be, my dear Sir, with great esteem, yr. sincere Friend & Hl st., Ed. Carrington RC (DLC: Jefferson Papers). 1 See Carrington to Jefferson, May 14. 2 That is, the New York Journal and the Daily Advertiser for June 7. 3 See, for example, Carrington to Jefferson, April 24, note 2, and May 14, note 4 ; and Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 9:746n.4. 4 For publication of the letters of the "Federal Farmer," see Richard Henry Lee to Elbridge Gerry, September 29, 1787, note.

Edward Carrington to Edmund Randolph

Sir, New York June 9. 1788 The delegation have been Honoured with your Excellencies favor of the 25th Ult. enclosing the reasons of the Commissioner for requiring an extension of the time allowed for the exhibition of the Accts. of Virginia against the United States. They are Submitted to Congress with a motion for the prolongation of the time, and these are now in reference to the Treasury Board for their report.(1) We shall have the issue ascertained as early as possible, but cannot undertake to encourage an expectation of success. In the mean time it will be well for Mr. Dunscomb to proceed without reliance upon the extension of the time for rendering the Accounts. Should his evidences be incompleat he may nevertheless render the Accounts, & prosecute his measures for collecting all that can be got. And as to the forms and arrangements of the Accounts, although it would have been a desirable circumstance for the State, that he should have stated them, yet that business, so far as alterations may be necessary to conform them to the Statements of the United States, may be left upon the Commissioner for that Party. I have the Honor to be, with great respect, Yr. Excellencies Most Obt. Servt., Ed. Carrington RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). 1 For the board's denial of an earlier request for an extension, see Virginia Delegates to Randolph, April 3, note. On May 21 the Virginia Council had directed Andrew Dunscomb, Virginia's commissioner for settling the state's Continental accounts, to draft a letter demonstrating why "the limitted term of time for presenting the Claims of Virginia against the United States will be too short to insure justice to the State." In his May 23 reply to Governor Randolph, Dunscomb argued that the "forms and evidences demanded" by district commissioner William Winder regarding recruiting bounties, depreciation of pay, militia advances, requisitions, and claims for advances to the quartermaster, commissary, clothing, hospital and marine departments made Dunscomb's task so complex that he was unable to organize and deliver all of the state's claims by June

Page 157

June 9, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

20, especially given the lapse in business when Winder was absent from the state from February 5 to May 2. Dunscomb's letter was forwarded to the Virginia delegates in New York who presented it to Congress on June 6 when they moved that the state be granted an extension of unspecified length. The letter and motion were referred to the board of treasury whose report was considered June 23. The following day Congress resolved to extend the period for exhibiting state accounts by three months and to allow the presentation of additional vouchers and testimony in support of claims after they had been submitted. See JCC, 34:203--;4, 253--;60, 262--;63, PCC, item 71, 2:601--;10; Cal. of Va. State Papers, 4:370, 444--;46; and Charles Thomson to the States, June 24. See also Carrington to Randolph, June 19, note ,

Page

and June 25, note 1.

LINK TO ANNALS

Paine Wingate to Hannah Wingate

My dear friend(1) New York June 9. 1788. I have the pleasure of receiving your favor of the 27 of May. And having returned my acknowledgements to my wife for hers of the same date, I am at liberty to make some returns to you, for the great obligations you lay me under by your correspondence. I should think I had no enjoyments worth possessing, were it not for the pleasure I have of frequent communications with my friends by writing. You will judge then whether my heart is not as much at Stratham as some body's else you mention is at New York. I assure you I have not yet found any body or thing which engrosses my affections here. I shall prefer my wife to the Dutch lady & you have given me such a flattering account of her constancy & attachment to me even tho' long absent, that I do not feel at all mortifyed to hear that you are otherwise engaged. It give me the greatest satisfaction to hear that you enjoy so good health whether my letters are the means of contributing to it or not. I wish it may long continue & increase & that the increase of your hea[l]th may soon be accompanyed with a more valuable increase of another nature. If this should be the case you may depend on the raisins. As to your spirits, the vivacity of your letter sufficiently indicates them, without your particularly informing me. Whether the extacy of pleasure you discover at the time of writing, arose from the tho't of going to my house that afternoon, or from your having your tho't at New York just then, I cannot say, but if they should subside after such an excess I hope the receipt of this will revive them again. Most pleasures must be mutual in order to become pleasures & did I not hope that it would contribuate to yours by my writing it would give me but little satisfaction to do it. Mr. Adams tells me that you expect & should be very particular in answering your letters. This I am not apt to be. I have so many whims of my own to mention, that I have not room to repeat & reply to yours. Besides your letters so abound with the most flattering complements, that it would savor of vanity in me to notice them. The French are remarkable for flattery & gallantry.

Page 158

June 9, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Whether you are related to that nation I cannot say. But you resemble them in one thing, you are fond of pleasing. By the way nobody is the worse for this, but as much better as they are more pleasing. And now I am speaking of pleasing it may be well eno' to pass to the subject of beauty. You wish to know whether Lady Christien (for that is the name of the Presidents lady) is as handsome as you are. I think she is much what. And I can add she resembles you in another [favor?], she is sociable & agreeable. I have given her character so particularly in some of my letters which probably you have seen, that it is needless to add any thing further. I am very glad to hear that you visit Polly. I hope that you will do it frequently & thereby increase her satisfaction in life. Mr. Adams observes that you are muster master general of the young females & I expect that your regiment will be considerably increased by young recruits by that time I shall return home. I must beg to be excused from your invitation to tea & hope you will not wait for me as I do not drink now any thing but the best hyson which your company I suppose do not afford. As you are so noted for telling the truth I cannot doubt of any thing you tell me & wish that the next time you shall write to me, you will inform me of all those hundred things which you have yet in your budget. I know it must be a burden to you to have any secrets not uncovered. I am much pleased [with?] the account you give of Mrs Weeks. She must be very happy & very pretty. I cannot tell when I shall write to you any more nonsense but believe I shall wait until I hear from you whether you wish for any more. Should be glad to know Who Betsey employs to write her letters for her. They are very pleasing to me. I expect that my wife will read & approve of this. I now must bid you adieu. Paine Wingate RC (DLC: Bartlett Family Papers). 1 Recipient not identified, but Wingate was undoubtedly addressing Hannah Veazie Wingate, the wife of his cousin Joshua Wingate, and a Stratham, N.H. neighbor. See Charles E. L. Wingate, Life and Letters of Paine Wingate, 2 vols. (Medford, Mass.: Mercury Printing Co., 1930), 1:184--;87. For other letters from Wingate to Hannah, all of which were written in a similar vein and addressed to "My dear friend," see Wingate to Hannah, June 25 and July 21 ; and ibid., pp. 187--;90.

Paine Wingate to Mary Wingate Wiggin

My dear Child, New York June 9. 1788. Your Aunt Wingate tells me in her last letter, that your mother & she were going to see you the next day for her fourth visit. This I know must be very agreeable to you & therefore it gives me pleasure to hear it. You shew your wisdom & good sense in liking your situation, and I have the satisfaction to believe that you will make a prudent, industrious & Œconomical wife. The fashionable pleasures & bustle of life are

Page 159

June 9, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

but vanity. The greatest satisfaction is to be enjoyed with a few virtuous, sensible & intimate friends & companions, & from the peaceful approbation of ones own mind from a consciousness of discharging the duties of our particular station. You know that I wish your happiness & would not by my advice or influence deprive you of any. I think you have more consideration than most of your sex & therefore will not expect uninterrupted pleasures, but study contentment with your allotments. I do not mean that to be happy it is necessary to shut ones self out from the world. While you have your small circle of valuable & intimate acquaintance, the rest of the world you will treat with great civility, politeness & affab[il]ity, especially such as are your equals & with whom you have perhaps been once intimate. The good opinion of the world is worth having, if it is not purchased at too dear a rate. But this may be done by propriety of behaviour without making it our whole business & attention to please. I shall not now trouble you with any further lessons of instruction, nor do I think from my present feelings that I shall give you a long letter. The fashion at this time is for parents & children among those in high life to be as familiar as brothers & sisters, nay I think that the children are the most fancy, & do take greater liberties with their parents in every kind of language & behaviour than they would towards any body else. This I cannot be pleased with, tho' you know that I do not love to keep children at a distance. I have not yet heard how you exercise your motherly deportment, but hope it is with wisdom & moderation. I shall be glad at any time to receive a letter from you but would not have you give yourself any trouble to do it. If it should worry you to write & give you any uneasiness I had rather you would not do it. I can write two letters to you, easier than you can one to me. You may set your Aunt Wingate to write who has always nonsense enô in her head to fill a letter. I have enjoyed my health as yet very well but want my customary exercise. I have some intimate acquaintance who are very agreeable to me, but none among the ladies. They expect more ceremony & attention paid to them, than I am willing to take the trouble of. I have other business enô to employ my time about & feel very contented in my situation. Mrs. Elisabeth Blanchard lately wrote me a long letter chiefly upon politicks, but I could not very well enter into a new correspondence, & therefore returned her a short letter merely of friendship. Her husband expects soon to go and visit her & then to go to the West Indies. His circumstances will not admit of living with his family. How much better to live within the bounds of moderation and œconomy than to be involved in such misfortune. We have now one Member of Congress who has the small pox very favorably(1) & there are some of the Inhabitants who continually have it in the city. I have reason to be glad that I had it formerly. I feel concerned about George & have wrote to Mr. Woodbridge & your mother

Page 160

June 9, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

upon the subject. I should be very unwilling that he should leave the school at Exeter & loose the benefit of his instruction. And at the same time would not have him pressed with any burdens that could well be avoided. I wish that you would encourage George as much as you can & make it as agreeable to him as it may be. You are sensible that whatever would make him uneasy would necessarily make me so to know it. You may tell Sally that she may read any of my letters to you, or to her aunt Wingate when she pleases, & to her mother if she thinks proper. I suppose that you have the same liberty with your letters to them. Indeed there is nothing private or interesting in them, but they are wrote principly with a view of expressing my friendship and concern for you all, & some times for the sake of a little diversion. I was last Saturday at the Jewish Synagogue which was their Sabbath day. The service was all performed in hebrew, was very long, and chiefly read in a sort of singing voice. Only the men were allowed to be in the lower part of the house & the women sat in the gallery & went up, into it on the outside of the house. They were dressed very fashionably. I have likewise been at the Romish Church & to a German Church where I could not understand a word that was said. I have indeed been to most of the places of worship in the city in order to see their different customs. I believe I shall not think fit to change my religion for any of them. Let Mr. Wiggin know that I have not heard yet from Mother Fox any further. I wish your health & every desireable enjoyment you can have. Am your affectionate father, P. Wingate RC (MH--;H: Wingate Papers). 1 That is, North Carolina delegate John Swann.

Samuel A. Otis to Theodore Sedgwick

My Dear friend New York 10th June 1788 I closed my last letter(1) without observing that having become indebted to my late friend Mr B Lincoln Jur I assigned him some notes which I understand he put into your hands to collect, and as I should be brot into fresh trouble if the debts assigned him should prove bad; your goodness will excuse my anxiety to have them attended to. Your friends here are frequently enquiring whether & when [you] design making your appearance on the ground. [M]y answer is that being Pastor or dux of the flock, negatively, not until he has dismissed it, But positively we hope soon after that period; For altho we have a full Congress, the Honble. Speaker of the Honble Mass Assembly

Page 161

June 11, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

would be an additional Honor to that Honble body the Congress & a great pleasure to Your friend & H Sev, Sam A Otis RC (MHi: Sedgwick Papers). 1 See Otis to Sedgwick, June 6.

Charles Thomson to George Handley

Sir Office of Secy of Congress. June 10th. 1788. On the 13th of April 1787 I had the honor to transmit to Your Excellency sundry resolutions passed by the United States in Congress Assembled respecting the treaty of peace between the United States of America and Great Britain. Also a letter to Your Excellency which was unanimously agreed to in Congress on the same subject. Not having heard from You touching this matter, I take the liberty of sending You a duplicate.(1) The reasons why your State should pass the law recommended are so fully and so forcibly stated in the letter from Congress, that is needless to say any thing more on the subject, especially to Your State which with such unanimity & readiness hath adopted the new Constitution, which establishes the principle, that Treaties made or which shall be made under the Authority of the United States shall be the supreme law of the land. I presume therefore it will only be necessary for Your Excellency to bring this matter to the recollection of Your Legislature, if they have not already passed the law required. With great respect, I have the honor &c LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). Addressed: "Govr. of Georgia." 1 See Thomson to the States, April 13, 1787. Hugh Williamson to James Iredell Dear Sir New York 11th June 1788 The public Papers have not for many days afforded us any News, all Expectation is turned towards Virginia, We take for granted, I do at least, that N Carolina will follow Virginia in adopting or rejecting. I confess that my Hopes are not sanguine, but of this I do not consider myself bound to say all that I think. Congress have before them sundry matters of considerable Import which have been eventing in the Course of seven Months for there have been nine states on the floor for a few days last past only. Having come on here with a Resolution to indulge myself in as much Leisure as any others of my fellow

Page 162

June 11, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Labourers, the Start I have some how been constrained to take has not fully accorded with my Plan, but I shall try to mind after a few Land Questions are determined. Those Questions are extremely weighty as the national Funds are concerned. At present I have not Leisure even to return Visits. Will you be pleased to forward a Line to Mrs. Templeman who probably is anxious to hear the Fate of her Son.(1) You may inform her that he was inoculated on Thursday Week in the morning, that on Saturday morning last the Pock had made their appearance, two or three on his Face & severall on his Limbs. On Sunday a few more appeared. On that Night he indulged on a feather Bed, which for several nights I had caused to be removed, and on Monday he had some 20 or 30 Pocks on his Face, the whole is still a Bagatelle; he continues to walk about & has done so every Day. He would now attend in Congress(2) was it not that the Place on his Arm in which he was inoculated being not quite free from Inflammation renders it inconvenient for him to put on a Coat with tight Sleeves. His Servt who as usual for Africans had the eruption 24 Hours before the Master was first relieved from his Suspicions. I was yesterday surprised by a message of the Spanish Minister, who sent one of his Family to our lodging to apologise for his not visiting us in Person for he has not had the small Pox. He had left his Card at the Door without coming in. Mrs Dawson whom I saw two Evenings since, also her Daughter & grand Daughter were well, but she complains of hearing very seldom from her Edenton Friends. I know that writing Paper is scarce in Edenton & therefore was able to make one good Excuse, I presume that no other good one could be made. Be so good as give my Respects to Mrs Iredell & the othe Ladies of your Family. I am Dr sir, Your obedt serv, Hu Williamson RC (NcD: Iredell Manuscripts). Addressed: "James Iredell Esq, Edenton." Endorsed: "Ansd. June 25th. 1788." 1 That is, North Carolina delegate John Swann. 2 Swann returned to his congressional seat June 18. See JCC, 34:234, 239. William Bingham to Tench Coxe Dear Sir, New York June 12. 1788 I am much indebted to you for the agreable & important Communications contained in your Letter of the 10th Inst. The Ratification of Virginia will be an essential Accession of fŒderal Force. Without her Cooperation & Assistance, the Union would not possess so robust a Constitution, nor be endued with strength Sufficient to resist the Difficulties it will probably have to encounter.

Page 163

June 12, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Mr Jay & Col Hamilton leave New York to Morrow, to meet the State Convention. I Shall present each of them with a Copy of the Address,(1) which is well calculated to affect their Passions, as well as Interests. Your particular Injunctions Shall be attended to. The most Sanguine Advocates for the fŒderal System only flatter themselves with the hopes that the Convention will adjourn, & not reject; so great & So determined a Majority is opposed to the ratification. However, the future Prospects of this State, with respect to an Extension of her foreign Commerce & of her internal Resources, are So intimately connected with the Union; that I am disposed to think the People will Soon change their Sentiments & become fŒderal. I am with Regard & sincerity, D. sir, Your obed hble ser, Wm Bingham PS. Accept the inclosed from your obt hle WB RC (PHi: Coxe Papers). 1 That is, Coxe's address "To the Honorable the Convention of the State of New-York," signed "A Pennsylvanian," for which see Bingham to Coxe, May 30, note; and Doc. Hist. of Ratif., New York (forthcoming volume). Nathan Dane to Elbridge Gerry Dear Sir New York. June 12. 1788 I this day received a letter from Colo. Grayson dated the 4th instant(1) the Substance of which he requested me to inform you of---; saying he had not time to write to you and requesting you will not let his name be quoted in the Newspapers. "The Convention met," he writes and unanimously elected Edd. Pendleton Presidt. The debates began the 4th no question taken indicative of Superiority on either side---;agreed to go through the Constitution by paragraphs. The numbers were as nearly equal as possible---;but Govr. Randolph today declared in favor of adopting the Constitution.(2) The district of Kentucky is against the Constitution and if the 4 Counties on the Ohio between the Pennsylva. line & Big Sandy Creek Join in the opposition the Constitution Cannot be adopted." Nothing very material has occurred here. It seems to be agreed by both parties in New New [York] that 46 members chosen are against the Constitution and 19 for it. We have I think a very good Congress not much effected with party spirit. By the inclosed paper you will see measures have been taken to bring public defaulters to account---;and may it not be well that this act of Congress should be published in our Boston papers as well as in

Page 164

June 12, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

the papers of the middle & Southern States. Please to give my respects to Mrs. Gerry. With the highest esteem & regard, Your obedt humble servant, N. Dane RC (Elsie O. and Philip D. Sang, River Forest, Ill., 1980). 1 For Grayson's letter, which is in the Dane Papers, DLC, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 10:1572--;73. 2 For Gov. Edmund Randolph's speech at the Virginia ratifying convention, which opened June 2, see ibid., 9:931--;36. Nicholas Gilman to John Sullivan Sir New York June 12th 1788 Having this day received the first accounts from Virginia since the meeting of their Convention I do myself the honor to inform your Excellency that from all accounts there is the greatest probability of their acceding to the new System of Government. A letter from Mr. Madison dated "Richmond July 4th"(1) contains the following observations---;vizt. "Mr. Pendleton was put into the chair without opposition. Yesterday it was unanimously agreed that no general or particular question should be taken untill the whole had been debated clause by Clause and the debates commenced to day. The Governor has renounced the Idea of previous amendments and will vote with us. He did it in a very handsom speech which has made a very favorable impression." Other letters mention that a considerable majority was expected in favor of the question previous to the Governors declaration; which by that occurrence must be enlarged. I believe there is now little or no reason to doubt the success of the question in North Carolina. The Honorable Mr. Williamson has lately arrived from that State and assures me that he has not been able to inform himself from what quarter the opposition is to come and that he entertains no doubt of the ratification by their Convention. With the greatest Respect, I have the Honor to be, your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant, N. Gilman RC (Nh--;Ar: State Papers, Revolutionary Correspondence). 1 That is, June 4, but not found. See Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:77--;78. For speculation that the recipient of this letter may have been Alexander Hamilton, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 10:1614n. Charles Thomson to Thomas Hutchins Sir Office of Secy of Congress. June 12th. 1788. I have the honor to transmit to You herewith enclosed An Act of the

Page 165

June 12, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

United States in Congress Assembled for ascertaining the boundary line between the United States and the States of New York and Massachusetts, & for ascertaining the quantity of land lying West of the said line between Lake Erie and the State of Pensylvania.(1) I also enclose an extract from the deeds of cession made by New York and Massachusetts so far as relates to the said boundary line, and am sir, with much respect Your Obedt. humble servant LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). Addressed: "Thos. Hutchins Esqr., Geographer of the United States." 1 For the enclosed June 6 resolution, see JCC, 34:202--;3. For Pennsylvania's interest in acquiring additional lands bordering on Lake Erie east of its recognized boundary, see the Pennsylvania Delegates' letters to Benjamin Franklin, June 6, and to the Board of Treasury, July 7. Paine Wingate to John Wendell Sir New York June 12. 1788. I received your favor of April 29, and forwarded your enclosure agreeably to desire. Mr. Isaac Gouvernuer Junr. of this city called upon me within a few days past & informed me that he had the care of those lands which the taxes respected, & said he would pay them if I would draw a bill in your favor for that purpose. I observed by your letter to me that you wished for a draft on Mrs Wingate for the money or else a Boston Bank bill. The latter I knew not where to procure, & the former I knew could not be in cash to pay you. When I mentioned this to Mr. Gouverner he shewed me your letter which he had received thrô my hands on the subject & in that you mentioned a draft on the Treasurer of New Hampshire. I told him that I could draw on the treasurer if that would answer. He said that he should chuse two bills of exchange & would send one of them immediately to you with a letter respecting the business which I herewith enclose. I told him that I had no interest in the matter but would comply with the request to serve you & him. I added that I could not answer for the money being immediately paid at the treasury but if the Bill should be returnd not satisfyd, the money would be by me or the check on the Bank in this city which he gave me and I would give it either to you or him whoever brôt me the bill. Upon this condition I drew the Bill. I hope that my draft on the treasurer will answer the purpose either to procure you the money or be allowed on account of those taxes or in some way that shall be agreeable to you. But if it should not answer your purposes & you will return the bill to me with your order to pay the money here It shall be immediately complyed with. I suppose it will be necessary also to send on the discharges for the taxes, which I will deliver to the Gentleman, which it is probable

Page 166

June 12, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

he has mentioned in his letter. If my proceeding meets your wishes in this affair it will be with pleasure I serve you. I thank you for the information you have favored me with respecting the adoption of the new Constitution. I hope that you will have the pleasure of hearing of its ratification in New Hampshire by the time you will receive this. For whatever imperfections experience may discover in it I am persuaded that you are in opinion with me that the present situation of our country makes it necessary. The event of the new Government taking place soon is now relyed upon, & I hope that we shall speedily feel the happy effects of it. The accounts from Virginia & No Carolina are favorable. New York is yet supposed to be antifederal but it is thôt she will not chuse to stand alone. All the states except two are now represented in congress & the delegates of those States are expected on soon. I will enclose for you a newspaper that you may see what little news we have here. I thank you for your kindness in calling upon my family & informing me of their welfare. And be assured that I am with sentiments of due respect your most obed[i]ent & humble Servt., Paine Wingate RC (MH--;H: bMS Am 1907). Paine Wingate to John Wendell Sir [June 12, 1788] Since I wrote the enclosed(1) I have seen a Letter from a member of convention in Virginia dated on the third day after they met,(2) who informs that Mr. Pendleton was chosen President without opposition (he is federal)---;That Governor Randolph had expressly declared for the ratification of the new Constitution without amendments---;That this was done in a very handsome speech which made a favorable impression---;That the Convention had unanimously voted not to decide upon the constitution or any part of it until they had gone thrô the whole by clauses in their deba[te] And that no question had yet decided fully the sentiments of that body but that the appearance was favorable. Other accounts say that there is reckoned a majority of twelve in favor of the plan. Please to deliver to the Treasurer the letter directed to him when you shall present the Bill. I am &c, Paine Wingate RC (MH--;H: bMS Am 1907). 1 See the preceding entry. 2 See Gilman to Sullivan, this date, note.

Page 167

June 13, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Thomas Tudor Tucker to St. George Tucker My beloved Brother June 13th. 1788. Hall of Congress. I have been long in Expectation of hearing from you either by your Sons or by Post, & now begin to grow impatient & uneasy lest any thing disagreeable should have occurr'd. I believe Dr. Johnson is not yet returned, but suppose it will not be many days longer before he arrives. Mr. Daniel Tucker arrived here from Bermuda about 10 Days ago & left our Friends in general pretty well. Nothing new from thence except that they are engaging pretty extensively in the Fishery this Year, about 15 or 16 Vessels being intended for that Employment. The whaling Ships have done tolerably well, but not so much as has been reported. Ere this arrives you will have heard of the Decision of South Carolina in favor of the New Constitution. We hear that it is also in a favorable Way in your State. I shou'd be glad to know from time to time how your Convention is going on & what are really the Prospects. Indeed I have always supposed that Virginia as well as South Carolina wou'd adopt it. From the latter I am inform'd that the people in the interior parts of the Country are much opposed to it. However I suppose & hope they will acquiesce in the Voice of the Majority. For my own part I do not expect from it any miraculously beneficial Effects immediately, whatever Time may bring about. The Impost appears to me to be almost the only Good that we shall for some time experience, & that will deprive several of the States at least of their chief Resource for the Support of their local Governments, not to say any thing of provision for the Payment of their public Debts, which already are so embarrassing that they puzzle the most ingenious to give them Support. As we are in Business, I cannot write & pay the necessary Attention. Remember me to the young Gentlemen & to all the Children with great Affection. Also to Miss Maria, Miss Carlos, & all other kind Friends. Pray write, as often as possible, & if I happen to be a little remiss (which however I do not intend to be) ascribe it either to natural Indolence or (rather) to a degree of Perplexity I often feel from a Variety of Subjects of Business which as yet are not very familiar to me. Excuse me to Richd. & Theodorick. The Expectation of seeing them has made me less particular in fulfilling my Obligation of writing to them. God bless you, my beloved Brother pray Your's most sincerely, Tho. Tud. Tucker [P.S.] It may possibly be acceptable to you to be inform'd how this State stands affected towards the New Constitution. What Effect the favorable Division of Virginia may have here I know not, but the Calculations at present are that the Division will be as follows---;for the Constitution 19 Members, against it 46, the whole Number being 65. RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Papers).

Page 168

June 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Nathan Dane to Samuel Holten Dear Sir New York June 14. 1788. I have been honored with your letter of the 5th of April last. I should have written to you before this, but nothing particular worthy your notice has occurred which has not appeared in the public news papers. You mention in your letter that the governor's Speech the last Session(1) remained unanswered, I presume on account of a Clause in it respecting the new Constitution. I recollect that it was at the time made a question here whether it was Judicious in the Governor in the then temper of our State, to bring any proposition before the legislature relative to the Constitution. You can best inform me what was the opinion of the people of Massachusetts respecting this part of the Governor's message. The manner in which the Constitution was adopted in South Carolina I suppose you have seen. The Construction the State gave to some Clauses, and the amendments they proposed should hereafter be made to others. The Convention of Virginia met the 2d instant. I have recieved and seen letters from the members of it dated as late as the 6th instant.(2) It appears that Governor Randolph has declared that considering the present circumstances of the United States, and the present State of the great question he shall be in favor of adopting the system and amending it afterwards. The information from Virginia taken collectively is in favor of the adoption of the proposed plan in that State tho nothing can be inferred with certainty as to the final result of the business. The Convention of this State (N York) meets the 18th instant. It appears to be agreed by both parties that of the 65 members who compose that Convention, 46 are against the Constitution, and 19 for it. If Virginia and N Hampshire shall adopt---;it will be difficult to say what line of conduct N York will think it adviseable to pursue. I am inclined to think the parties are more fixed in this State than in any other in the Union---;much has been written, published, and read in the State, and perhaps, the aristocratical and democratical characters in the State, are more accurately divided than in any other State. I think on the whole the Constitution will be adopted by eleven States, and it is a very desirable thing that the other two may not Stand out. So divided in sentiment as the people of some of the States are which have adopted and so difficult it will be for the union to make & execute commercial regulations, &c if N. York and R.I. only shall be out of the union that we shall find many embarrassments in the Confederacy of nine, ten, or eleven states. We have now eleven States in Cong and one Member from each of the other States---;and there is a fair prospect of our having the thirteen states on the floor in a few days---;tho we have not any very impor-

Page 169

June 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

tant business to do---;nor shall we have I think this year except that of adopting measures for putting the new Government into operat[ion]. We have a very good Congress---;men not much actuated by party spirit---;and but very little if at all under that influence which heretofore under Ms. &c has so much injured the United States. We lately passed an act without much opposition for calling all those public defaulters to Account &c. I have the honor to be with Great respect, your obdt. humble servant, N. Dane RC (James S. Copley Library, La Jolla, Calif., 1986). 1 For John Hancock's speech before the Massachusetts General Court October 18, 1787, in support of the new federal Constitution, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 13:410--;11. 2 See, for example, Dane to Elbridge Gerry, June 12, and Nicholas Gilman to John Sullivan, June 12, note. Charles Thomson to the States Sir, (Circular) Office of Secretary of Congress, June 14th, 1788. I have the honor to transmit to your Excellency herewith enclosed an Act passed the 11th of this Month by the United States in Congress Assembled, directing the mode in which the States are to be Credited for sums paid, or which may hereafter be paid by them to Invalids, and limiting a time within which persons entitled to pensions as Invalids by past Resolutions of Congress must make Application, and produce the requisite Certificates and evidence to entitle them thereto.(1) With great Respect, I have the Honor to be, Your Excellency's Most Obedient and Most Humble Servt., Cha Thomson RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). 1 The enclosed resolutions were adopted on the recommendation of a committee to which had been referred a June 2 petition from "John Buchanan, Robert Harris, Daniel Baldwin & Saml Jones, in behalf of themselves & other Invalids." For this petition, the committee's June 6 report, and the resolutions adopted June 11, see PCC, item 42, 1:435--;38; and JCC, 34:197n 204--;6, 209--;10. Hugh Williamson to John Gray Blount Dear Sir New York 14th June 1788 Yours of 16th ult came to Hand too late by 24 Hours for the June Packet, the Mail was on Board & the Vessel ready to sail when your Letter came to Hand else I should have contrived some method of

Page 170

June 14, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

sending your Brother 170 Dlrs. Your Bill however is not paid. Mr Hazard says that you have never sent him your Bond or obligation to perform the Service, of course he fears the Treasury Board will not allow of the Charge if he pays the Mony. He wrote to the Board stating his Difficulty; they have delayed to give an Answer; To day I called on them to know what answer they proposed to give. They alledged that no Proof had been adduced that you had caused the mail to be carryed. In Reply I said that I knew the allegation to be true, To this they replyed that this they would admit as good Proof of what had been done but after the Payment was made for an Easy Quarter, once per Week, without the Bond there was no security that you might not drop it in the Summer when the trouble was greater. To this I only reply'd that I presumed they considered the Contract or Bond as a necessary Condition, they reply'd in the affirmative, and having previously resolved to ask no favours I would not say that I should be obliged to them for departing from the usual Ro[u]tine. The British Packet is to sail on the 3rd of July & I propose sending the mony by her in Specie to your Brother. The Amot of my Cash on Hands is about 120 Dlrs. The Balance I shall borrow of some acquaintance. In the mean while you will be so good as take the Occasion by first Post of sending on your obligation to the Post Master for conducting the Mail as proposed. Send also a Certificate from the Post Master or his Deputy at Washington that the Mail was properly & duely carryed by your Order & at your Expence, or to this Amount. It may not be amiss for you to send Duplicates by different Posts lest another should be lost. And you may guess that I should feel awkwardly to be 3 or 4 Weeks without Cash, but as I conceive that your Brother might have similar feeling I shall in the first Instance send him the Cash & trust to incidents. Capt. Collins is to send me some naval Stores to Philad. but they may not be there for some Time, & I expect a Dividend in this City of some 200 Dlrs or more of a Bankrupt Estate but I have expected it for 3 Years and more, so much the worse is the Chance you will say. I think it will eventually come, but a Decision in Chancery is to be had first. I count upon an Answer to this Letter in 4 Weeks or near that Time not sooner, therefore it is that you cannot send the Vouchers before the Packet sails. I have just recd a Letter from Mr Peterson of Yorkshire expressing his Wish that Mr Thos Blount would put it in his Power to serve him. But he who imports dry goods among paper mony is throwing Spirits into the fire that he knows must be consumed. I think Thos had much better try to man the Dutch Smack; with moderate Stone Ballast she will sail well. I am Dr sir Your obedt servt, Hu Williamson(1)

Page 171

June 15, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

P.S. Mr Hazard has promised to send you by this days Post a Copy of the Contract that you are to sign. On its arrival I will take Care that he signs one if usual or necessary. RC (Nc--;Ar: Blount Papers). 1 Williamson also wrote the following letter to Blount on June 10. "This will be handed you by Mr Marcus George who goes to N Carolina with the Expectation of being employed as a Teacher in some private or public Institution. Mr Marcus who has been educated for Priests Orders brings with him the most ample Testimonials concerning the goodness of his morals as that he has lived a blameless examplary Life. He has been very well educated in the several Parts of Learning that are usually taught in Colleges and seems to be well versed in Mathematics, Astronomy & natural Philosophy. He appears withall to be a modest young man & to possess liberal Sentiments. After what I have said I think I had best not mention either his particular religious persuasion or the Country that gave him Birth. I fear that the Trustees are not ready to employ a Teacher at Greenville but I am persuaded that Mr George may be well employed either at Warrenton, at Hillsbro, or some other Place that is not in a sickly situation. He will need a Horse that he may leave the flat Country before the sickly Season advances and some of your Jockies will try to cheat him; from all such Sharpers I hope you will protect him till he has had a little Time to acquire Horseical Knowledge. I conceive that he will buy cheapest for ready Paper Mony, having first sold his Specie for Paper, but of this you can inform him best. I heartily wish that Mr George may soon get a good School for I verily believe that he will prove to be a man of Abilities, of good morals, a good member of Society and a most useful Teacher." Blount Papers, Nc--;Ar. Nathan Dane to Rufus King Dear Sir: New York, June 15, 1788. I enclose to you a letter which was handed to me to forward. The principal object of attention and enquiry is the Virginia Convention.(1) But I need not add on this subject, as I presume the enclosed letter will give you all the information of any importance to it, which, at present, can be obtained. The members of the convention in this state meet this week. The result of their doings I must leave to time to discover. It must be an undesirable thing even to have R.I. out of the union, much more N.Y. The opposition in the latter state appears to be (many of them at least) sensible of this: from this and other circumstances I can by no means conclude, at present, that N.Y. will not keep herself in the Union. With the highest esteem & regard, yours, &c., N. Dane. MS not found; reprinted from King, Correspondence (King), 1:334. 1 Perhaps James Madison's letter to King of June 4 or 9, for which see Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:76, 102.

Page 172

June 15, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Nathan Dane to Caleb Strong Dear Sir New York June 15. 1788. By the inclosed paper you will see how affairs stood in Virginia relative to the Constitution on the 4 instant.(1) I need only add that the extracts of letters mentioned in this paper are genuine, and from originals which I saw---;and them from men whose information, I suppose, may be relied on. I yesterday saw a letter from a member of that Convention dated the 6th instant in which he states that the prospect of adopting the Constitution increases---;but adds that nothing can be said with certainty. The members of the Convention in this state meet this week---;46 against---;19 for the Constitution---;at least this seems to be agreed by both parties. Notwithstanding this inequality I think, all things considered, we ought not to conclude that N.Y. will not keep herself still in the union. Nothing of importance occurs here which you will not see in the newspapers. By the post by which this goes we write to the Governor(2) respecting the boundary line between the United States, Massa. & N.Y. which is a North and South line extending from Lake Erie to the North boundary of Pennsylvania. I think that Hutchins will faithfully run this line, and as it does not respect a very large tract of land and cannot be very important to our State, my opinion is that it will be best for the legislature to authorise the Governor & Council to appoint an agent or not to attending the running the line, as on further inquiry may appear to be expedient or not. With the highest esteem & regard, I am your obdt. humble Servant, N. Dane RC (MNF: Strong Papers). Addressed: "Honorable Caleb Strong Esqr., Boston, or Northampton, Massachusetts." 1 For the debates in the Virginia Convention through June 4, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 9:887--;943. 2 This letter from Dane and Samuel A. Otis to John Hancock has not been found, but for the subject at issue see Charles Thomson to Thomas Hutchins, June 12. Samuel A. Otis to Theodore Sedgwick Dear Sir New York 15th June 1788 Mr Maddison who you know with the endowments of a great Statesman & a fine Scholar, in the Study of men & books, possesses a cool, deliberate, cautious judgment, writes his friends in Congress in terms

Page 173

June 15, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

very encouraging & amongst other Letters printed the following extract is more recent than the papers. Richmond Friday June 6th "[A] Symptomatic vote this day in favor of the question was taken; Nothing decisive however has taken place. Mr H(1) made a great effort yesterday & having spun his harangue until a late hour, an answer was prevented; His party were much revived, but I think they are less so this morning. The Governour is become active in favor of the adoption." Refering you to the papers for other news I have the honor to be, Your most Huml Sert, Sam. A. Otis RC (MHi: Sedgwick Papers). 1 For Patrick Henry's "harangue" before the Virginia Convention June 5, see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 9:951--;68. Abraham Yates to Abraham G. Lansing Dr Sir New York 15 June 1788 Yesterday About Eleven the Governour With a number of the anti Members of Convention set out in A Poughkepse Sloop And in the afternoon about 6:OClock the Federals under the Firing of Canon from the Battery (a Cerremoney Coll Bowman tells me your men with the Anties would not consent to). I dont feel verry oneasy About Consequences. What steps the federals Mean to take in reality I cannot Imagin. It would seem from Common Conversation that they had some hopes that the Anties would be taken in by their Superior Ability Either to Adopt or to Adjorn because they suppose the anties after so many States Coming in will not dare to Reject it which they Suppose An Adoption with previous Amendments would In its Effect be. I remember Brattain Called out that we were poltroons but it had the Contrary effect to what they intended it should have---;And it is possible it may have the same effect here. I have seen the Votes for amendments the Enties [Antis] Carry up, I have had the Copy---;made same Addition And sent it up to Yates & Lansing.(1) The Piece is publish'd in two papers 50 Sets are gone to Pochkepse 10 Sets (Of which I send you Six) I Reserved. There you will keep one set and Deal out the others to the friends. I find Some Mistakes that Must be Rectified if they are Represented. The sixty Copies Cost me 30/. I shall send the papers to Morrow (I believe With Capt Dove) together with the ordinary Daily papers. Virginia the federalist are Confident will Adopt And so they say Will New Hampshire. The Members from this place seems Determined not to

Page 174

June 15, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Adopt (without previous Amendments) tho all the others should. I shall write from time to time If I have any thing Material. Yours Affy., Abrm. Yates Junr RC (NN: Yates Papers). 1 That is, Robert Yates and John Lansing, antifederalist delegates to the New York ratifying convention at Poughkeepsie. Cyrus Griffin to Thomas FitzSimons My dear sir N York June 16th. [1788] I would have written to you before this, but expected some private hand to carry the balance of the money due---;with many thanks and acknowlegements for so much friendship and polite attention to us. I have endeavored to get a Philadelphia bank note to enclose by post, but cannot of a less denomination than one hundred dollars---;however some acquaintance will shortly be going to your City. I am told that Mr. OConner is in town, but we have not yet seen him. The enclosed letters are recommended to your friendly attention. I am not a little happy that the important business of the proposed Constitution is going on so well in Virginia. Governor Randolph's incantation, 'tho embarrassing enough with respect to himself, may produce some pleasing consequences.(1) New Hampshire will certainly adopt the system. About two thirds of this state are at present in opposition---;but the federal members expect to convert a great number---;and indeed from good authority I am told that Governor Clinton thinks it absolutely necessary that N York should adopt the measure also. Governor Collins and some of the leading men of Rhode Island are advocates for the plan now. From the appearance of things taken altogether we have good reason to conclude that the union will be complete. No Intelligence from Europe. With my best regards to all I am, my dear sir, Your very affect. humble servant, C Griffin RC (PHi: Gratz Collection). 1 An apparent reference to Gov. Edmund Randolph's lengthy June 6--;7 "incantation" in the Virginia ratifying convention, for which see Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 9:971--;89, 1016--;28. Edward Carrington to James Madison My dear Sir, New York June 17. 1788 I had the pleasure to receive your favor of the 6th of June(1)---; it gives

Page 175

June 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

great satisfaction not only to myself, but all the Freinds of Federalism to whom I have had an opportunity to commun[i]cate its contents. You very prudently hazard no decided opinions as to the event, but it appears to me that we may calculate with certainty upon a considerable Majority from the facts you communicate. It is impossible that the present critical state of the business, & the consequent responsibility of Virginia to humanity, for her conduct under such circumstances, should not have enclined most of the opposition, who can descern the hazards of persevering, to follow Governor Randolph in taking the other side. The President has just shewn me your letter to him(2) mentioning your indisposition. I regret it much, but hope you have before this perfectly recovered, so as to resume your Station in the House. The Convention of New York is now assembling at Poughkepsi---;the Antifederalists who are indeed the Majority, have received a shock from the Accounts from Virga., but it seems they are so fixed in their principles that they will probably, at least adjourn without adopting the Constitution. Present to our Freinds Innes & Marshall and beleive me to be my dear Sr. Your Afft. Freind & Hl St. Ed. Carrington(3) RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 Probably the letter from which Samuel A. Otis took an extract for Theodore Sedgwick, for which see Otis to Sedgwick, June 15. 2 Not found. 3 This day also Georgia delegate Abraham Baldwin wrote the following brief note, undoubtedly in his capacity as the chairman of a recently appointed congressional committee. "Dear Sir, A Committee of congress request your attendance this morning at the city hall on some business referred to them by congress." Charles Roberts Autograph Collection, PHC. The letter was probably directed to the postmaster general, Ebenezer Hazard, and concerned a June 5 petition from a number of mail contractors that was submitted to committee June 6. See JCC, 34:207n, 273--;74, 294--;96. But Baldwin could also have been writing as the chairman of a committee to which a board of treasury report concerning a memorial of John Woods had been referred on June 13. JCC, 34:230n, 240--;41. Edward Carrington to James Wilson Dr Sir New York June 17. 1788 When you left this City, it was understood by the Committee on the Memorial of the Mississippi & Wabash Companies, that you was to forward some additional papers from Philada. This has occasioned the business to be delayed. I suppose that unless an early decision upon the application can be obtained, the object of the Memorialists will be lost, & therefore take the liberty to inform you of the delay, in order that you may, either forward any additional papers you wish to have

Page 176

June 17, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

considered; or inform the Committee that they may proceed upon what have been submitted.(1) I am with great regard, yr. Most Ob. Servt., Ed. Carrington RC (PHi: Gratz Collection). 1 Wilson had submitted a memorial to Congress on May 2 asserting the claims of the United Land Companies of the Illinois and Wabash, promising documentation "touching the fairness of their purchases and representing their willingness in case they should be well founded to cede to the U S a great proportion thereof." The memorial was referred on May 5 to Carrington, Abraham Clark, Nathan Dane, William Irvine, and Stephen Mix Mitchell, who reported June 27 that members of the United Land Companies should submit to Arthur St. Clair (governor of the western territory) and Richard Butler (superintendent of Indian affairs) proof of their 1773--;75 purchases and ensuing treaty with the Indians, and that St. Clair and Butler should report to Congress "a full State of their enquiry." Congress "postponed" or, in effect, rejected the committee's report on July 1. Wilson's memorial and accompanying petition were returned to him on March 22, 1790. See JCC, 34:133, 270--;71; and Carter, Territorial Papers, 2:115--;17. Nathan Dane to Theodore Sedgwick My Dear Sir New York. June 17. 1788. I had the pleasure to receive your favor of the 9th instant. I have but one moment to write---;and shall improve my first leisure hour to write to you more particularly. You mention that it will be disagreeable to you to attend Congress in the present State of the Government. Sensible of this I have not urged your attendance---;but I think by the first of August the organization of the New Government will be before Congress, it will be best then to have the States ful[ly] represented in Congress, tho. I conceive that business will not be attended with any gre[at] debate, or take up much time. My aff[airs] require that I should make a short visit to Massachusetts and return to Congress by the first of August. In my absence the State will be unrepresented unless you can find it convenient to attend Congress. I could therefore wish that you would attend as early in July as you can(1)---;tho, there is no great deal of business to be done, but as unprofitable business may be agitated and brought forward I could wish the State always to be represented in Congress. Your sincere friend, N. Dane [P.S.] I have Just seen a letter from a member of the Virginia Convention---;(Madison) dated the 9th instant but nothing new(2)---;the friends of the Constitution calculate on a majority---;but do not Speak with certainty.

Page 177

June 18, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (MHi: Sedgwick Papers). 1 Sedgwick returned to Congress July 31. Dane did not return home as anticipated, remaining in New York until at least mid-September. See JCC, 34:378, 522, 528n. 2 For this brief June 9 letter from James Madison to Rufus King, see Madison, Papers (Rutland), 11:102. William Bingham to John Nicholson Sir, New York June 18th 1788 I herewith Inclose a Resolution of Congress on the subject of Pensions that have been, or may hereafter be paid, to Invalids by the respective States.(1) Likewise Copy of a Motion made yesterday in Congress, the Consideration of which I desired might be postponed, untill I could hear in what Manner it would affect the Interests of Pennsylvania.(2) Your opinion on this subject, will much oblige, Sir, Your obed hble serv, Wm Bingham RC (PHi: Gratz Collection). Addressed: "J Nicholson Esqr, Comptroller of the State of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia." 1 See Charles Thomson to the States, June 14, note. 2 Secretary Thomson did not enter this motion on the journals of Congress, but for his report "On the petition of L[l]oyd Powell an invalid late of the Pennsylvania line stating that he has never recd. the pension allowed to invalids," the case to which it may have related, see JCC, 34:234--;35. Cyrus Griffin to James Madison My dear sir N.Y. June 18th. [1788] We are all extremely uneasy at your Indisposition---;how much to be regretted indeed! And particularly when such important matters are under deliberation---;but I hope that kind Heaven has restored you before this day, to be a farther blessing and honor to your Country! We are not very sanguine upon the event of the proposed constitution in Virginia---;'tho your kind letters give us some degree of spirits. Above all things take charge of your health. Most affly. C Griffin [P.S.] A small North River Brig has just arrived from China with a valuable Cargo, but no Intelligence.(1) RC (DLC: Madison Papers). 1 The arrival of the brig Columbia from a 5½ month voyage from Canton was reported in the New York Journal and the Daily Advertiser for this day.

Page 178

June 19, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Edward Carrington to Edmund Randolph Sir, New York June 19th 1788 I have delayed writing to your Excellency this week in hopes of being enabled to transmit the decision of Congress upon the application for an extension of the term allowed for exhibitting the the Accounts of the State against the United States.(1) This may possibly be obtained tomorrow, but as that is not absolutely certain I wait no longer for it. The Board of Treasury are forming a report upon Mr Dunscombs letter taken in conjunction with one they have received from Mr. Winder, and it is their intention, so to form the report, as that it may serve to remove, or reconcile, the difficulties existing between the two Commissioners, and I have some reason to believe they will also recommend a general extension of the time allowed by the ordinance, for a few months. Should this recommendation come from the Board, it is probable Congress will agree to it, but I must still repeat my former observation, that it will be best for Mr. Dunscomb to proceed to render the Accounts, in whatever arrangement they may be, throwing upon the other Commissioner the business of new statements, if such shall be necessary. The delegation will urge the decision of Congress upon this application, and upon its being obtained no time will be lost in transmitting it, together with the report of the Treasury Board. I have the Honor to be, with great respect, Your Excellencies Most Obt. Servt., Ed. Carrington RC (Vi: Continental Congress Papers). 1 For this application, see Carrington to Randolph, June 9, note. Samuel A. Otis to Theodore Sedgwick Dear Sir New York 19th June 1788 Unless the business of impeachment should occasion delay, The General Court will probably be upon the wing by the time this reaches you. I however think the papers containing all the news in this quarter will not be unacceptable. I observe your intentions of being here by 1st August which will give me pleasure whenever it is effected.(1) The Kentucky interest pushes violently for separation---;That of the Province of Main is a Subject which I have not sufficiently contemplated, having only glanced at it as something distant.

Page 179

June 21, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

I am happy that any incident has prevented you from "suspecting neglect on the part of an old tried friend" than which nothing can be farther from the intentions of, Dear Sir, Yours very sincerely, Sam A Otis [P.S.] You will make my Compliments to all friends, To whom havg written so frequently, no apology is needed. RC (MHi: Sedgwick Papers). 1 Sedgwick returned to his seat in Congress July 31. JCC, 34:378.

Charles Thomson to the Board of Treasury

Gentlemen June 20 1788 Pursuant to an Order of Congress I have the honor to transmit to you herewith enclosed a letter of the Committee of Congress at Camp dated 2 June 1780; for the purpose expressed in the order which is subjoined to the said letter.(1) With great respect, I have the honor to be, Gentlemen, Yr obed. hu Ser, CT LB (DNA: PCC, item 18B). 1 For the enclosed letter from the Committee at Headquarters to Certain States, see these Letters, 15:225--;32. For the subjoined June 17 order, see JCC, 34:234.

John Brown to James Breckinridge

Dear Breckinridge New York June 21st 1788 I this day rec'd your favor of the 13th Instant & am not a little alarmed to hear that the New Constitution still rests upon uncertain & precarious ground. Untill this Post we were flatterd with accounts that there was a decided majority on the federal Side but the Accounts this day rec'd leave the Event in a very doubtful situation in our estimation as I find it is in yours. I have written some time since to Mr Allen & Mr Walton also to Mr Fowler(1) to whom I pointedly gave it as my Opinion that it ought to be adopted without hesitation as the only means left to prevent Anarchy & Confusion & to ensure safety & importance to the United States. I also inclosed a pamphlet written in this place in which the Banefull Consequences of a rejection were pointed in Just

Page 180

June 21, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

& lively Colours(2)---;after this & the letters which I have written to the District I did [not] suppose that the Delegates from that Country could be at any loss with respect to my Sen[timents which] have been uniform upon that Subject since my arrival here. Before I left Richmond I view'd the plan as they do but my appointment has placed me in a Situation from whence I have been enabled to take a more extended view of American Politics & as I have frequently mention'd to you I have discover'd a total change so far as respects the Western Country especially with regard to the Mississipi. The Advocates for the proposed Treaty with Spain now plainly discover that the Cession of the Navigation of that River would not answer the end which formerly they had in View & many of them who were most disposed to sacrifice the Western Country are now by purchase of Lands & appointments to Offices become personally interested in supporting its natural Rights against arbitrary encroachments. I am well assured that a similar attempt will never be made even by the eastern States whose Interest will be most affected by the prosperity of that Country & most sincerely hope that the impression thereby made upon the Minds of our Western Members in Convention will not induce them to reject the proposed plan of Govt. upon the Adoption of which it is candidly my Opinion that the Happiness, Dignity & Glory of the United States depend. I have very little prospect of obtaining the Assent of Congress to the present application of Kentucky to be admitted a [member of] the Union. I expect you have seen the Resolution of Congress appointing a Commtee. to draw up an Ordinance for that purpose. The Comtee. have determined that there is no power for that purpose given by Articles of Confederation. I presume Kentucky will proceed to establish her independence as tho she had been admitted & will apply or not to the new Govt. as her Interest may dictate. If unanimity prevails in the District perhaps the present disappointment may be productive of good Consequences to that Country. But be this as it will I flatter myself that they would wish to see a Good Govt. established in the United States even though they should be driven out of the Union & therefore conclude that their Delegates will not decide against the proposed plan a measure which I fear would involve the Atlantic States in Confusion. I am happy to hear of my Brother's [safe] arrival in Kentucky & that he is well pleased with the Country. I hope he will succeed---; am also well pleased to hear that my Sister is married---;am not acquainted with Doctor Humphreys but have heard him well spoken of. I wish some men of our female friends were disposed of to their satisfaction---;is there any prospect of it? I expect to set out for Kentucky the last of next month---;have some prospect of visiting Boston before that time. I enjoy my usual good Health. Adieu, Yours Sincerely, J Brown

Page 181

June 21, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

P.S. In Convention of this State there are two thirds Antifederal but will be govd. by decision of Virga. RC (ViU: Breckinridge Papers in the collections of the Albemarle County Historical Society). 1 Only Brown's June 5 letter to Matthew Walton has been found. 2 Perhaps John Jay's Address to the People of the State of New-York, on the Subject of the Constitution (New York: Samuel and John Loudon, 1788), which began circulating in April. See Evans, Am. Bibliography, no. 21,175; and Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 17:101--;19.

South Carolina Delegates to Thomas Pinckney

Sir, Copy New York June 21st. 1788. Your Excellency's letter of the 24th of May came safe to us, together with the Instrument of Ratification of the new FŒderal Government, by the Convention of our State, which we presented to Congress.(1) This very important Subject is now under deliberation in the Conventions of Virginia, New York & New Hampshire. The accounts of the first of these are rather favorable to the adoption of the Constitution, altho it does not appear that any certain Judgment can yet be formed---;from the two latter nothing has yet reached us. We anxiously wait the issue of the negociation [wi]th the Creek Indians, & earnestly wish it may have the happy effect of stopping the farther Effusion of Blood & establishing a lasting peace. We inclose your Excellency a Copy of late Resolutions of Congress fixing the mode of crediting the several States for Monies paid to Invalid pensioners, & limiting the time for applications to be put on the List.(2) The State of Georgia has transmitted to Congress an Act of its Legislature offering a Cession of Western territory to the United States under certain conditions therein expressed.(3) This Matter has not yet undergone any Investigation in Congress, & of course the final ratification of the Cession has not been made. The memorial of the District of Kentucky has been considered by Congress, & a Resolution passed in favor of the expediency of concurring in the proposed Measure: but difficulties having arisen with respect to the constitutional Mode of doing it, no farther progress is yet made in that business.(4) We have the honor to be, very respectfully, Your Excellency's Most obedient servts, (signed) John Parker Thos. Tud. Tucker Tr (ScCoAH: Governor's Messages). 1 South Carolina's ratification was submitted to Congress June 6. See JCC, 34:208n.

Page 182

June 21, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

2 See Charles Thomson to the States, June 14. 3 For this Georgia cession, which was submitted to Congress May 29, see Nicholas Gilman to John Langdon, May 3, note; and Charles Thomson to George Handley, July 17, note 2 . 4 For the fate of Kentucky's application for statehood see Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson, November 10, 1787, note 3.

John Brown to John Steele

Dr Sir,(1) New York, June 22, 1788 I am informed by letter recd. from Mr Allen last post that you are at Richmond & presuming that you came thro Augusta I would thank you for any information you may have it in your power to give me respecting my fathers family & my other relations in Botetourt & Montgomery. You will excuse this trouble I hope when you are assured I have not recd. a letter from that quarter, since my arrival here. Any information you may give concerning my acquaintances in K---;---;y will also be very acceptable. We wait with great impatience to hear the determination of Virga. upon the new Constitution. It is supposed that its fate depends upon her Vote. We are told that the Kentucky Members are opposed. I flatter myself not generally. Those objections which respect the navigation of the Mississippi are not well founded. Nothing is to be apprehended in that quarter. I hope it will be adopted, as in my opinion the safety & peace of the United States depend upon it. The Separation of Kentucky will not be granted under the present application.(2) Congress have determined that it is reasonable, and appointed a Committee to bring in an act for their admission into the Union. But the Committee are of opinion that there is no power delegated to Congress for that purpose by the present Confederation. In short it is I fear impracticable to remove the objections suggested by the contracted policy of the Eastern States, who had rather risque the Union than lose what the[y] Call the Ballance of Power. We must act for ourselves---;Assure our independance---;frame our Constitution, & apply to the new Govt. for admission into the Union as our interest & Circumstances may dictate. If we are unanimous and prudent, we have nothing to fear. Perhaps a rejection of our present application may be advantageous to the District. Her importance will in a short time enable her to prescribe her own terms of admission. I enjoy my usual state of good health &c &c Tr (KyLoF: Orlando Brown Papers). This Tr was embodied in the text of a letter to Brown of December 31, 1808, from J. Speed, Jr., of Natchez, Mississippi, who had made

Page 183

June 22, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

a copy after being shown the RC by Colonel Steele in the context of a discussion of the Aaron Burr conspiracy trial. 1 John Steele (c. 1755--;1817) was representing Nelson County, Kentucky, in the Virginia ratifying convention at Richmond where he voted against ratification of the Constitution. In 1790 he became a member of the Virginia Council of State and served as secretary of the Mississippi Territory, 1798--;1802, becoming acting governor in 1801. See Doc. Hist. of Ratif., 10:1668n. 2 For which see Edward Carrington to Thomas Jefferson, November 10, 1787, note 3.

Nathan Dane to Theodore Sedgwick

My Dear Sir, New York June 22. 1788. I convey to you the inclosed which came to hand by the post.(1) I am sorry I have it not, as yet in my power to give you any certain information respecting the conduct of Virginia as to the adoption of the Constitution, from the complexion of the letters of both parties, all I can say is, I think it is probable, the State will adopt it---;in either event the majority will be small. This State is now in Convention, but nothing decisive has taken place---;it was reported last evening, and I believe from pretty good authority, that the opposition has no thoughts of rejecting in toto---;nor are they wholly fixed as to previous or subsequent amendments. Congress have agreed that it is expedient that Kentucky be independant &c---;thus far was thought by all the members to be prudent and politic, all circumstances considered---;but as to its final admission, into the union or to independency or any further measures relative to the subject, I believe a very considerable majority of the members are of opinion that they ought to be left to the consideration of the New Government.(2) We have ten States in Congress and a member from Maryland and a member from Connecticut---;P[ierpon]t Edwards. E. has been here about twelve or fifteen days(3)---;from his general reputation as a lawyer of rather brilliant talents, gentlemen were led, I believe, to expect some display of abilities---;from what little I have seen of him he appears to think and Judge like a man of a warm climate---;he is not thought to examine his ground well before he takes it, and of course often will expose himself to cautious and discerning men opposed to him. I have often seen men who will shine at the bar; but never in a political sphere. In the inclosed paper you will see the treaty lately made between G. B. & Holland. English politics have now acquired an intire [a]scendency in the Netherlands; and probably will keep it some time. With sentiments of esteem & friendship, I am Dr. Sir, your's &c, N. Dane.

Page 184

June 22, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

[P.S.] As I wrote to you last week on the Subject of our attendance in Congress(4) I need add nothing at present. RC (MHi: Sedgwick Papers). 1 Not identified. 2 In his July 3 reply to this letter, Sedgwick observed: "I am glad to be informed that congress have no determination to admit Kentucky into the Union, because instead of congress possessing a power of authorising the dismemberment of the states, their entirety seems guaranteed, by the spirit of the confederation." Dane Papers, MBevHi. 3 Edwards took his seat in Congress on June 9. JCC, 34:208. 4 See Dane to Sedgwick, June 17.

Thomas Tudor Tucker to St. George Tucker

My dear Brother June 23d. 1788. In Congress. Your Favor of 6th June was deliver'd to me three days ago by the Boys(1) who had a short passage from Norfolk. It gives me great Concern to find that you had lately been very much indisposed. However they assure me that you are intirely recover'd & that you are now as well as you have been for several Years. May Heaven continue the Blessing of Health to you. I am happy to find by the Boys & by a Letter from Richard that you intend, if Circumstances will permit, to make a Visit to this Place in the course of the next Month. I need not say how very great will be my Satisfaction on that Occasion. I find that all your young folks are in good Health, which is a great pleasure to me. Dr. Johnson had fortunately return'd from Connecticut 2 or 3 days before the young Gentlemen arrived. I have been with them to him, & they are now gone to College to give an Account of their Progress. As their Bedding is at Princeton it will be some days before they will get fixt in Lodgings at College. Your Letter to Mr. Constable I have not yet deliver'd as he was out of Town, & I did not know of his return on Saturday until late. The Boys, however, have been with him with a Letter they had to deliver. We have a Report this Day that your Convention had taken the Question for Adjournment, which had pass'd in the Negative by a Majority of Eight, & that the final Question on the Constitution was to have been put on the 21st Inst.---;that the Question for Adjournment had been moved by the Opposers of the Constitution. If this Account is true, I presume that there is no Doubt of the Decision in favour of the New System. No Accounts from Bermuda since my last Directed to you at Richmond. My best regards to your dear Children, Miss Rhind & other Friends. I am, My dearest Brother, Yr. most truly affect., Tho. Tud. Tucker

Page 185

June 23, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Papers). 1 That is, St. George's step sons, for whom see Tucker to Tucker (2nd letter), April 17, note 3.

Hugh Williamson to Joseph Martin

Sir New York 23rd June 1788 On the middle of May I arrived here. I had then been 3 Years out of Congress and could not have taken my seat sooner. Doctr. White had been gone a fortnight before my arrival and an Agent had been appointed for the Southern Department.(1) It is true that the appointment is said to be meerly temporary, but no body here has ever attempted to convince me that the Appointment was prudently made. It is alledged that the Agent appointed, as in all appointments formerly made, is altogether unacquainted with the management of Indians. Having a full Persuasion that you have a considerable acquaintance with the Indians and Interest among them, I wished to see you in that Department, but the Door seemed to be shut; there was however one mode remaining by which our State at least might have the benefit of your Influence among the Indians, this was by giving you the separate Charge of the Cherokees &c. Mr Carrington of Virga and Mr Brown, a lawyer from the Western Part of that State, were both informed of your attention to Indian Affairs and zealousy promoted this measure, but my Collegue Mr. Swan who had been inoculated could not attend steadily in Congress till on the last Week and on Friday last you was chosen.(2) While the Agent formerly appointed for the Southern Department continues, you are to hold a subordinate Place, but to receive your Instructions from Congress with the Allowance of 900 Dlrs per Ann. I think it prob[ab]le that on the next Year the whole Duties of the Southern Department will be in your Hands, for I am persuaded that on the Remr. of this Year we shall have the satisfaction to find that the Indians under your Care conduct themselves without Offence to the Citizens of the United States. I hope in particular that our Friends in Davidson County will experience the Benefit of your attention to the safety of themselves, their wives & Children. I beg you to observe that I have no sort of Claim to thanks for any attention I have shewn to this Business, for in all votes that I give, as a servant of the State, I am careful not to be influenced by private attachments; I constantly wish to promote such men to Office as I think will serve the public best. If you should be the means of saving the Lives of any of our fellow Citizens I shall have the Reward that I covet,

Page 186

June 23, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

the approbation of my own Mind. Wishing that your appointment may be productive of Benefit to the State and Honor & Profit to yourself I am Sir, Your most obedt servt. Hu Williamson RC (WHi: Draper Manuscripts, Tennessee Papers). 1 For the appointment of Richard Winn as superintendent of Indian affairs for the southern department, see Charles Thomson to Winn, March 1, 1788. 2 For Martin's June 20 appointment as "Agent for the Cherokee Nation of Indians," see Edward Carrington to Edmund Randolph, June 25, note 2. For Martin's previous experience in the southern department, see these Letters, 22:138n, 286--;87 ,

Page 294

.

LINK TO ANNALS

Abraham Yates to Abraham G. Lansing

Dr Sir 23 June 1788 This I mean shall lay on my table to put down Matters as they Occur to me. I have with me the News papers I prosecuted upon in expectation to Speak to the Governour and Jones upon that Subject but I did not find an opportunity and therefore Now Return them.(1) Your Brother Sander May prepare in the Mean time a Declaration But before it is made a Record it will want more Consideration than at this Day can be aforded Either by myself or frinds. I met Claxton (the printer) in the street 8 or 10 Days Ago, who was very importuning that I Should withdraw the suit or discharge him from it. I should by no means consent to withdraw it. I told him that I should by no means consent to withdraw it, and to discharge him was not possible without distroying the suit. He then told me some publication would, he supposed, answer the end of a verdict (here I suppose he meant a sort of recantation). I told him I supposed not---;he said I would in the End find that the Characters of those that published were insignificant and were hardly Worth my Notice. I Answered, that that might be, but they were the ostensible or tools only. If I see him again I shall Continue the Conversation. I tell him that I dont want to injure him no farther than is absolutely necessary to the prosecution of the suit but the real authors shall come forth tho it should prove his ruin. He Complains that it has proved his ruin in some measure already that he has been Obliged to hire himself to London to work for my work and ten more. The Mortgage of Greveroot I shall be Able to do nothing with here. I beleve I will at the End be oblidged to publish and sell it at vendue for I am determined it shall not remain so. Tho. Witbeek has been with me says he will not be able to pay untill August Next. I Shall be well satisfied if he does then. When I went from home the family were in distress About A Servant I have heard nothing of it since. Has the Affair of Waldren succeeded? if not has he paid? I mean to buy A Wench and if any Suitable one

Page 187

June 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

Comes for sale I would have you buy her: I shall try to Muster up Mony one Way or other. Have you got any Mony in since I left you. I Intend soon to Oblidge Van Engen, Van Loon, Van Benson, & some others to pay. As soon as the next harvest is in, the wheat there is then to Spare before the New Wheat Can be brought Down I suppose will be the time to sell the remains. The time probably is Already past, But I would always reather venter that, you have sometimes Mis crops or Blasted. I have Wrote sometime Ago in respect to little Jane.(2) I Wish to know what determination there is upon it. This I dont mean, as a Stimulus to send her down, the propriety of that Measure I leave entirely to Mrs. Yates & Susan. I Mean if it should be intended to send her down then the sooner the Better because I should wish that She should be here three or four Weeks and if then I should return I bring her up with me. If she does not come I wish she could be kept to her books More than she has the last year. It appears to me she has not made the progress that Yates has; I have no Opinion of her going into Latin, let her learn to Read, Write and Cipher and if she gets more let it be french. At all events let the World and her troubles go as they Will the Education of the Children should be attended to. Forget what Estate you Will unless the Children knows how to use it, it is a Chance if it does not at the End injure them, therefore A Child should be brought up to learning Parsimony and with it to use Oeconomy; and to be as free as possible of affectation. By the one they will be enabeled to do their Business so as not to be Imposed upon by the Second. If it be necessary they will be able to live of[f] little and by the last they will be Considered reputable in Every Stage of life fortune will throw them. The vessel just goes of[f] yours &c. Abm. Yates Junr 24 June 1788 RC (NN: Yates Papers). 1 Relevant to this paragraph, Lansing penned the following endorsement at the top of this letter: "delivered the papers referred to Sanders Lansing with directions to draw Brief &ca, 28 June 1788. AGL." 2 That is, Lansing's daughter, and Yates' granddaughter, Jannetje Lansing (1780--;1830). Claude G. Munsell, The Lansing Family (New York: Privately printed, 1916), p. 48.

William Bingham to Benjamin Rush

Dear sir, New York June 24th 1788 The Accounts conveyed to you in a Letter from Mr Corbin(1) were very flattering, & I am much indebted to you for the Communication.

Page 188

June 24, 1788

LINK TO ANNALS

But I am afraid his Sentiments received an Impression from his Wishes, & were not grounded on any rational Hope of Success. However, by the Time this Letter reaches you, the Dye will be cast, & you will be acquainted probably with the Event. I am by no means free from Anxiety on the subject of New Hampshire, altho the most recent Advices from that State leave little room for doubting her Assent. As for New York, her unqualified rejection may be relied on. If a ninth state Should not accede before the 4th of July, your Procession will probably not take place, but be reserved untill Some future Day; The Politics of No Carolina will receive a Tincture from the Act of Virginia, & in Case the latter Should reject, I Shall entertain little Hope of the Accession of the former. Please to make my respectfull Compliments to Mrs Rush & believe me with sincerity & Esteem, Dear sir, Yours &c, Wm Bingham RC (PHi: Alexander Biddle Collection). 1 That is, Francis Corbin (1759--;1821), a member of the Virginia House of Delegates and a staunch federalist. Rush, Letters (Butterfield), 1:420--;21, 427.

Charles Thomson to the States

Sir Circular Office of Secretary of Congress, June 24th. 1788. I have the honor to transmit to Your Excellency herewith enclosed An Act passed this day by the United States in Congress Assembled granting farther time to the States for exhibiting to the distri