Title: From James Madison to Thomas Jefferson, 20 May 1783
From: Madison, James
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Dear Sir
Philada. May 20. 1783.
In obedience to your request I am to answer by this post your favor of the 7. inst: recd yesterday. My brevity will therefore be excused.
For the tenor of the conditions on which Congs. were formerly willing to accept the cession of Virga. I beg leave to refer to their resolutions of the 6 of Sepr. & 10 of Ocr. 1780. I take it for granted you have their Journals. The expunging of the article relative to State expences was a subject of no less regret with me than it is with you & for the same reason, but I acknowledge that considering the probable defect of vouchers in Virga. & the ardor with which the clause was supported from some other quarters, mine was much diminished in the course of the discussion. On the last trial there were but two or three States besides Virga. that favored it. S. Carolina’s opposition to it had great weight. After this clause was expunged it was thought improper to retain the connective clause as Virga. will now be at liberty to confine her accession to the revenue part of the plan, without enlarging her territorial Cession or being deprived of the opportunity of annexing any Conditions she may think fit. The connective clause however could not have been carried I believe either before or after the mutilation of the plan. Notwithstanding this disappointment I adhere to my wishes not only that the revenue may be established, but that the fœderal rule of dividing the burdens may be changed, and the territorial disputes accomodated. The more I revolve the latter subject, the less inducement I can discover to a pertinacity on the part of Virga. and the more interesting it appears to the Union.
I am sorry your departure from Richmond became necessary before more of the members were assembled. I make no doubt that useful impressions have been left with those who were so & were susceptible of them. I shall keep in mind the intimation relative to Mr. Short. The idea of adding the fraction of a year to my Congressial service is totally new, and even if it sd. prevail, will not as far as I can now see, coincide with my private conveniency.
Since my last I have been able to procure for you a copy of pamphlet which I herewith enclose. If in consequence of the provisional steps I before took it sd. prove a duplicate I shall thank you to forward one of them to my father. The ladies & gentlemen join me in complimts. to Miss Patsy & to your self.
Adieu.


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, [20] May 1783
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

My dear Sir
Philada. [20] May 1783
Your favor of the 9th. inst: was duly brought by yesterday’s Mail. My impatience is great to know the reception given to the propositions of Congress, by the Assembly. I foresaw some of the topics which are employed against them, & I dread their effect from the eloquent mouths which will probably enforce them; but I do not despair. Unless those who oppose the plan, can substitute some other equally consistent with public justice & honor, and more conformable to the doctrines of the Confederation, all those who love justice and aim at the public good will be ad[v]ocates for the plan. The greatest danger is to be apprehended from the difficulty of making the latter class sensible of the impracticability or incompetency of any plan short of the one recommended; the arguments necessary for that purpose being drawn from a general survey of the fœderal system, and not from the interior polity of the States singly.
The letter from the Delegation by the last post to the Govr. apprised the legislature thro’ him that negociations for a Treaty of Commerce with G. B. might be expected soon to take place and that if any instructions should be deemed proper no time ought to be lost in giving the subject a legislative discussion. For my own part I wish sincerely that the commercial interests of Virginia were thoroughly investigated & the final sense of the State expressed to its representatives in Congress.
The power of forming Treaties of Commerce with foreign nations is among the most delicate with which Congs. are intrusted, and ought to be exercised with all possible circumspection. Whilst an influence might be expected from them on the event or duration of the war, the public interest required that they should be invited with all the respectable nations of Europe, and that nice calculations of their tendency should be dismissed. The attainment of the object of the war has happily reversed our situation and we ought no longer to enslave ourselves to the policy of the moment. The State of this Country in relation to the Countries of Europe it ought to be observed, will be continually changing, and regulations adapted to its commercial & general interests at present, may hereafter be directly opposed to them. The general policy of America is at present pointed at the encouragement of Agriculture, and the importation of the objects of consumption. The wid[er] therefore our ports be opened and the more extensive the privileges of all competitors in our Commerce, the more likely we shall be to buy at cheap & sell at profitable rat[es.] But in proportion as our lands become settled, and spare hands for manufactures & navigation multiply, it may become our policy to favor those objects by peculiar privileges, bestowed on our own Citizens; or at least to introduce regulations inconsistent with foreign engagements suited to the present state of things.
The relative situation of the different States in this respect is another motive to circumspection. The variance of their policy & interests in the article of commerce strikes the first view, and it may with great truth be noted that as far as any concessions may be stipulated in favor of foreign nations they will cheifly be at the expence of those States which will share least in the compensations obtained for them. If for example, restrictions be laid on the Legislative rights of the States to prohibit, to regulate or to tax as they please their imports & exports, & to give such preferences as they please to the persons or vessels employed in them, it is evident that such restrictions will be most felt by those States whi[ch] have the greatest interest in exports & imports. If on the other side the Citizens of the U.S. should in return for such a stipulation be [ob]l[ig]ed to navigate & carry, in forbidden channels, is it not equally evident [that] the benefit must fall to the share of those States which export & consume least, and abound most in resources of ships & seamen.
Nor should it be overlooked that as uniform regulations of the Commerce of the different States, will so differently affect their different interests, such regulations must be a strong temptation to measures in the aggrieved States which may first involve the whole confederacy in controversies with foreign nations, and then in contests with one another. I may safely suggest also to your ear, that a variety of circumstances make it proper to recollect that permanent engagements entered into by the Confederacy with foreign powers, may survive the Confederacy itself; that a question must then arise how far such engagements formed by the States in their fœderal character are binding on each of them separately, and that they may become pretexts for quarrels with particular States, very inconvenient for the latter, or for a general intrusion into American disputes. On the other hand candor suggests that foreign connections, if founded on principles equally corresponding with the policy & interests of the several States might be a new bond to the fœderal compact.
Upon these considerations I think it would be advisable to form all our commercial Treaties in future with great deliberation, to limit their duration to moderate periods, & to restrain our Ministers from acceding finally to them till they shall have previously transmitted them in the terms adjusted, for the revision & express sanction of Congress. In a Treaty of Commerce with G. B. it may be the policy of Virga. in particular to reserve her right as unfettered as possible over her own commerce. The monopoly which formerly tyrannized over it, has left wounds which are not yet healed, & the numerous d[eb]ts due from the people, & which by the provisional articles they are immediately liable for, may possibly be made instruments for reestablishing their dependence. It cannot therefore be for the interest of the State to preclude it from any regulations which experience may recommend for its thorough emancipation. It is possible that experience may never recommend an exercise of this right, nor do my own sentiments favor in general, any restrictions or preferences in matters of commerce, but those who succeed us will have an equal claim to judge for themselves and will have further lights to direct their judgments. Nor ought the example of old & intelligent nations to be too far or too hastily condemned by an infant & inexperienced one. That of G. B. is in the science of commerce particularly worthy of our attention: And did she not originally redeem the management of her Commerce from the monopoly of the Hanse towns by peculiar exemptions to her own subjects? did she not dispossess the Dutch by a like policy? and does she not still make a preference of her own Vessels & her own mariners the basis of her maritime power? If Holland has followed a different system the reason is plain. Her object is not to exclude rivals from her own navigation but to insinuate herself into that of other nations.
The leading objects in the proposed Treaty with G. B. are 1. a direct commerce with the W. Indies. 2. the carrying trade between the different parts of her dominions. 3. a like trade between these & other parts of the world. In return for these objects we have nothing to offer of which we could well deprive her, but to secure to her subjects an entire equality of privileges with our own Citizens. With regard to the 1. object it may be observed, that both the temper & the interest of the nation leave us little ground to apprehend an exclusion from it. The French have so much the advantage of them from the facility of raising food as well as the other produce of their Islands, that the English will be under the necessity of admitting supplies from the U.S. into their Islands, and they surely will prefer paying for them in commodities to paying for them in cash. With regard to the 2 & 3 objects it may be observed that altho’ they present great advantages, they present them only to those States which abound in maritime resources. Lastly with regard to the concession to be made on the part of the U.S. [it] may be observed that it will affect cheifly, if not solely, those States which will share least in the advantages purchased by it. So striking indeed does this contrast appear that it may with certainty be inferred that If G. B. were negociating a Treaty with the former States only, she would reject a mutual communication of the privileges of natives, nor is it clear that her apprehensions on this side, will not yet lead her to reject such a stipulation with the whole.
If this subject should be taken up by the Legislature, I hope that altho’ not a member, your attention & aid will be given to it. If it sh. not be taken up publickly, I wish for your own private sentiments & those of the most intelligent members which you may be able to collect.
We have no European intelligence. Sr. G. Carlton in a letter to [Gel.] W. avows the same sentiments as were expressed in the conference relative [to the] negroes, but repeats his caution agst. their being understood as the national construction of the Treaty.
I send you herewith three more copies of the pamphlet of Congress which I have procured since my last. If Majr. Moore & Mr. F. Strother sd. be in the Assembly, I beg the favor of you to present one with my compliments to each of them. The third you will dispose of as you may think best.
In reviewing the freedom of some of the remarks which I have hazarded above, I am almost induced to recall them till I can cover them with [cyph]er. As there is little danger attending the mail at present, and your own [discretion?] will take care of such as may be improper to be reverberated to this place, I shall upon the whole let them stand.


Title: Motion of Instruction to Francis Dana, [22 May] 1783
From: Madison, James
To: Dana, Francis

[22 May 1783]Mr Madison   Mr Carroll
That Mr. Dana be informed that the Treaties lately entered into for restoring peace, have caused such an alteration in the affairs of these States, as to have removed the primary object of his mission to the Court of Russia, the acquisition of new supports to their Independence
That he be instructed, in case he shall have made no propositions to the Court of Russia on the subject of a Treaty of Commerce to decline making such untill he shall receive further instructions from Congress: that in case he shall have made such propositions, he be informed that it is the desire of Congress, that as far as will consist with the honor of the U. S. he insist on a limitation of the Treaty to the period of 15 years, and that the same be subject to the revisal & approbation of Congress before they shall be obliged to accept or ratify it.
That a Come: be appointed to prepare & report a plan of a Treaty proper to be transmitted to Mr. Dana.


Title: Notes on Debates, 23 May 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Friday May 23
The Report from Mr. Hamilton Mr. Gorham and Mr. Peters, in favor of discharging the soldiers enlisted for the war, was supported on the ground that it was called for by Economy and justified by the degree of certainty that the war would not be renewed. Those who voted for furloughing the soldiers, wished to avoid expence, and at the same time to be not wholly unprepared for the contingent failure of a definitive treaty of peace. The view of the subject taken by those who were opposed both to discharging and furloughing, were explained in a Motion by Mr. Mercer seconded by Mr. Izard to assign as reasons, first that Sr. Guy Carlton had not given satisfactory reasons for continuing at N. York. second, that he has broken the articles of the provisional Treaty relative to the negroes, by sending them off.
This motion appeared exceptionable to several, particularly to Mr. Hamilton, & rather than it should be entered on the Journal by yeas & nays, it was agreed that the whole subject should lye over.
The Report relating to the Department of For: Affairs being taken up: Mr. Carroll seconded by Mr. Williamson moved that no public Minister should be employed by the U. S. except on extraordinary occasions.
In support of the proposition it was observed that it would not only be economical, but would withold our distinguished Citizens from the corrupting scenes at foreign Courts, and what was of more consequence would prevent the residence of foreign Ministers in the U. S. whose intrigues & examples might be injurious both to the Govt. & to the people.
The considerations suggested on the other side were that Diplomatic relations made part of the established policy of Modern Civilized nations, that they tended to prevent hostile collisions by mutual & friendly explanations, & that a young Republic ought not to incur the odium of so singular & as it might be thought disresp[ect]ful innovation. The discussion was closed by an adjournment till Monday.


Title: Instruction to Virginia Delegates in re Treaty of Commerce, 23–24 May 1783
From: House of Delegates
To: Virginia Delegates

Editorial Note
On 22 May 1783 the Virginia House of Delegates referred to the Committee of Commerce the letter of 13 May from the delegates in Congress to Governor Benjamin Harrison (Delegates to Harrison, 13 May 1783, ed. n.; JHDV(1828 ed.). Journal of the House of
          Delegates of Virginia, Anno Domini, 1776 (Richmond, 1828)., May 1783, p. 16). On 23 May, instead of the committee’s recommendation, the House of Delegates unanimously adopted a resolution of instruction drafted by Joseph Jones. The Senate concurred the next day (JHDV(1828 ed.). Journal of the House of
          Delegates of Virginia, Anno Domini, 1776 (Richmond, 1828)., May 1783, pp. 17–18, 19; Jones to JM, 25 May 1783).

In the House of Delegates
Friday 23d. of May 1783
Resolved that the Delegates from this State to Congress be instructed that the Legislature approve a treaty of Commerce with Great Britain upon principles of reciprocity desiring however that no treaty of Commerce between these States and any power whatsoever may be finally concluded on, before the same shall have been sent to Congress for approbation and the different States have had an opportunity of considering it, that in the mean time the Legislature approve of a provisional treaty with Great Britain whereby the Commercial intercourse between the two Countries may be facilitated.

Teste

John Beckley Clk HD:

1783 May 24h.

Agreed to by the Senate.

Will Drew. C. S


Title: To James Madison from Jacquelin Ambler, 24 May 1783
From: Ambler, Jacquelin
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Richmond Virga. 24. May 1783
The Auditors have at length found the Accot. and are now satisfyed that I did not exceed the mark when I assured them the Bal. due to you on the 1st. Jany last was upwards of £800. in consequence of which they have given Mr. Webb a Warrt. on your Accot. for £100. which he will transmit you in addition to the £200. sent last Post. I must repeat my request that the Gentlemen of the Delegation will forward to the Auditors States of their several Accots. with directions to them to issue Warrants for the respective sums they have divided. their directions to the Auditors to issue the Warrts. may be sent altho they may not have time to adjust & send the Accots. I am about to settle the affairs of the Treasury with a Committee of the Assembly & without Warrants I cannot accomplish it.
Yrs. affect’ly,
J. Ambler
If any Vessel Offers to James River from Philal. I will be particularly obliged to you to send us two Rheam of best Office writing Paper one pound Sealing Wax. six boxes Wafers & 500 best Dutch Quills. Money shall be repaid immediately on your sending the Accot.
Paper & wax Certificates acct.


Title: To James Madison from David Jameson, 24 May 1783
From: Jameson, David
To: Madison, James

Dr Sir
Richmond May 24. 1783
I heartily congratulate you on the return of Peace—an event that places every thing within our reach to give us as a people human Felicity. I have the pleasure of being informed by Mr. Jones that you enjoy a good state of health—a close & constant application to business seems not to have been so prejudicial to you as I feared it would. You have had much to do and not a little remains still to be done beside other matters of great moment that of establishing or rather of drawing the great outlines of an universal Commerce will require much deliberation. You will receive a short resolution of the Assembly in answer to your request on that head
A Bill is under consideration to lay Duties &ca. agreable to the recomendation of Congress for a National Revenue, which I doubt not will pass. the mode of collecting those duties is not fixed but I suppose Congress will have the appointment of some officers on the occasion. I take the liberty to offer my services should you think me worthy of an appointment. the injury I have suffered by the depredations of the British and the much greater by depreciation (having recd. considerable sums in paper money for debts due to me before the war); will make it necessary to turn my attention to something: And as I have formerly mentioned to you, the giving a constant or very frequent attendance at this place is very inconvenient to me. An act has passed to repeal the act for seizure & condemnation of British goods—And to permit the entry of British Vessels with the highest esteem
I am Dr Sir Yr obt. hume Ser
David Jameson


Title: Notes on Debates, 26 May 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Monday May 26.
The Resolutions on the Journals instructing the Ministers in Europe to remonstrate agst. the carrying off the Negroes; Also those for furloughing the troops passed unanimously.


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Pendleton, 26 May 1783
From: Pendleton, Edmund
To: Madison, James

My Dear Sir
Edmundsbury, May 26th. 1783
I am just returned from Richmond much fatigued by the Courts, which for the first time have found full emploiment for their whole terms. The manner of doing business, hearing causes in Court for 6 hours, & employing the mornings & evenings in dijesting & settling Opinions, however proper and necessary to be observed in Courts which are, or nearly approach to, the de[r]nier resort of Justice, are a heavy tax upon my advanced age; howe[ve]r when I find it insupportable, I must quit the Office, as I can’t think of relaxing in the other point.
I am to thank you for your favr of the 13th and for the Pamphlet inclosed, which I read over, tho’ for want of time, not with the Attention I wish to give it, & then delivered it to Mr Jones who was before at Richmond. Our debt indeed is heavy, & added to our own peculiar demands, will require taxes difficult to be paid; however a radical System, well dejested & strictly pursued; and the practice of Industry & Oconomy, (which so far from being an evil, may produce the greatest good, if it prevents our return to that Indolence & extravagance that was Our Character formerly) will carry us thro’ it in a reasonable time. I am told the 5 pct & other impost, tho’ warmly opposed, will be granted, tho’ perhaps with some modulation wch may not affect the genl principle, particularly to direct the portions allotted annually to our Citizens to be paid them here, to save the carriage & recarriage of the money, & avoid another inconvenience of drawing such quantities of Specie from all the States, to circulate only in the Vortex of Phila. or what other place Congress may sit in. This last seems to be made a great objection, & on that ground some Gentln seem to wish that besides what may be due to our Citizens, we might be allowed to pay good Bills of Exchange to answer our proportion of foreign remittances & prevent the drain of our Specie—however nothing is yet determined on in this business, which the House of Delegates have not taken up. Besides repealing the laws which prevented the importation or consumption of British goods (at length passed by the Senate with a clause to make it retro-active from the day it pass’d the other House) they have been emploied in a new tobacco Law, in a new regulation of Salaries in the civil department, and in Suspending the payment of taxes ’til December next. The ground of this last is the short crop, & present unsettled State of trade, which I am satisfied would have made the collection of the whole alarmingly distressing, if not wholly impossible; but I am not so, that part of it might not have been received without any great inconvenience, and am certain that Procrastination, by which increased accumulation of Payments are made necessary, is very hurtful to public as well as private Debtors; not to take notice of the embarrassment wch may be thrown upon the general System by the delay, perhaps when they have the recommendations of Congress under deliberation, they may find it necessary to revive the collection of part of the taxes, which, as mentd before, I think the true Interest of the people. I had almost forgot to mention that they have made their Members again ineligible to Congress. A Letter from the Governor will bring on another great constitutional question, the end & consequences of which cant be foreseen. An Act of Assembly has authorised the Executive Upon complaints against County Majistrates to hear them, and if they think it just to remove from office the person complained of. Such a complaint in writing being lodged with the Governor, he laid it before the Council, & proposed the party should be summon’d to answer, & a day fix’d for the hearing, four of the Council determined, & it is so entered in their journal, but the law was against the principles of the Constitution, the general tenor of the Laws, and the liberty of the Citizens, and therefore they would not Execute it. The Govr having several times in vain endeavour’d by remonstrance, to procure a change in their Opinion, at length sent a Copy of the Articles exhibited and of their order, to the House of Delegates, who have not yet discuss’d them; & when they have done so, I do not see how they can mend it, and remove the Objection to their power, which is not increased since they gave force to the former Law, if the Legislature can to any on the Subject. If this branch of the Executive may dispute the force of the law on this ground, it would seem to run thro the whole department, since no line is drawn, to limit the power of Judging on the Subject; a constable may therefore refuse to obey & Execute his Warrant on the same pretence, and so the legislature are at once made subject to the control of the Executive, a Position which I believe is not Supportable by any thing wch can be drawn from the constitution, Law, or the principles of liberty.

Some Gentn have received wth. great pleasure the Account of Sr Guy Carleton’s tergivisatious conduct respecting the restitution of Our slaves, considering it as a proper excuse for not paying British debts, which, they say, may now Consistent with good faith, be set off against each other, as they ought to have been by the Treaty. This however is at present only common tab[l]e talk, & hath not yet reach’d the Assembly, nor will it be canvassed there, I suppose, until they have the definitive Treaty. Mr Jones is better after his journey, than he expected to be. I am
Dr Sr Yr mo. affe. & obt. Servt
Edmd Pendleton


Title: Notes on Debates, 27 May 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Tuesday 27 May
No Congress


Title: Virginia Delegates to Benjamin Harrison, 27 May 1783
From: Virginia Delegates
To: Harrison, Benjamin

Sir,
Philada. 27 May 1783.
We have been honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 17th instant. Mr. Jones we believe carried with him a copy of the offer of a Seat for Congress in the State of N. York. Lest it should have happened otherwise, we will endeavor to provide one for the next mail. The propositions of Congress with regard to Revenue have long since been transmitted to your Excellency by the President. Relying on the full explanations of our two Colleagues who will attend the General Assembly, we have supposed it unnecessary to trouble you with any less perfect remarks on that subject in our correspondence.
The state of our information from Europe remains precisely as at the date of our last; the progress of the definitive Treaty, of the British bill relative to a commerce with the United States, and of the arrangements for a new administration, being left in the utmost uncertainty by the latest arrivals in this port.
Congress have received no further communications from the Commander in chief, with respect to the Conduct of the British Commander at New York, touching the evacuation of that port, or the execution of the other articles of the provisional Treaty. The breach of that which stipulated a restoration of the Negroes, will be made the subject of a pointed remonstrance from our Ministers in Europe to the British Court; with a demand of reparation; and in the mean time General Washington is to insist on a more faithful observance of that stipulation at N. York.
We have the honor to be with great esteem and respect yr Excelly’s Obt. Hble Servts.
John F. MercerJ. Madison Jr.Theok. Bland Jr.


Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 27 May 1783
From: Madison, James
To: Madison, James, Sr.

Hond. Sir
Philada. May 27. 1783.
I duly recd. yours of the 16th. inst: yesterday by the post, and hope as you are fixing a communication with Fredg. that I shall hear often from you during my stay here thro’ the same channel, as I shall be attentive on my side to fulfil your wishes on that subject. How long my stay will be continued here is uncertain, but longer probably than my last indicated. I wish for this reason, that tho’ I shall attend to the bark & Vitriol for my mother, an intermediate supply may be procured within the State. I shall endeavor to provide a chair for you, on a convenient model, perhaps with a top to it if such an addition will not too much augment the price. I have hitherto not been inattentive to the request of Mos: Joseph, but shall in consequence of your letter renew my efforts for the books, which the return of peace, renders more likely to be attainable for him. I see few books in the Catalogue which you have sent which are worth purchasing, but I will peruse it more carefully & send you the titles of such as I may select.
I rcd. a letter from Mr. Jos: Chew a few days ago by which & the information of Col: Wadsworth who brought it & is a friend of his, I find that he is in N.Y. with his family, that they are all well, that he continues as yet to hold a post which supports them comfortably, that altho’ he has enjoyed opportunities of honestly laying up profits, his generosity of temper has prevented it. I can-not learn whether he proposes to remain in this country or not, but am inclined to think he will go to Canada, where he has some little expectations. He seems to be exceedingly anxious to hear of his friends in Virga. and I have written as fully to him on the subject as my knowledge would admit. I wish some of his friends on the spot & particularly yourself would write to him. Besides the information he wd. receive, it would be a pleasing proof to him that he still retained a place in their remembrance & regards.
We are without information of late as to the progress of the difinitive Treaty, and of the bill in the British Parliamt. for opening trade with the U. States. The confusions produced in their councils by the long suspension of the Ministry seem to put every thing to a stand. The paper which I inclose will give you the latest information on that subject. Remember me affectionately to all the family & be assured that I am
Yr. dutiful son
J. Madison Jr.
P.S. I have got a piece of silk for Sally which I shall send by the first opportunity if any offers before I set out myself. Perhaps I may make an addition to it. Fanny I suppose too must not be overlooked.


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 27 May 1783
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

My dear Sir
Philada. May 27th. 1783
A letter recd. yesterday from Mr. F. Webb, inclosing bills in my favor for £200 Virga. Curny. informed me of the successful effort of your friendship for my relief. Mr. Ambler informed me that your attempt was for £100 more, but was abridged on a doubt as to the balance due to me. My answer to him by this conveyance will shew that you would have been sufficiently under the mark.
The next post I hope will bring me your remarks on the Budget of Congress, with the pulse of the Assembly with regard to it. The example of Virga. will have great & perhaps decisive influence on the event of it. In Rhode Island they are attacking it in the News papers before it has appeared. But this State is swayed by a party which has raised & connected its importance with an opposition to every Contl. measure. The bulk of the people are taken in by a belief that if no general impost on Trade be levied, their State will be able to tax the neighbouring States at pleasure. Should all the other States unite heartily in the plan, I do not think any single State will take upon itself the odium & the consequences of perseviring in a veto upon it.
I wish much to know how far your hope was well founded of an introduction of Mr. Jefferson into the Legislature. The hopes of some I find extend to his Mission to Congress. The latter would be exceedingly fortunate & if his objections are not insuperable ought & I trust will be urged upon him by his friends. I have been also indulging a hope that your return for such periods as would be most interesting, & wd least interfere with the exercise of your profession, might be reconciled to your views. Unless temperate & experienced members come in for the ensuing year, I foresee that the exclusions reqd. by the Confederation will make way for a change in the fœderal Councils not favorable to those catholic arrangements on which the harmony & stability of the Union must greatly depend.
We have recd. no accession of intelligence either as to the progress of the definitive Treaty, of the bill in the British Parlt. for commerce with the U-S. or of the negociations among the hungry suitors for the loaves & fishes of the Administration.
I am Dr. Sir Yr sincere friend
J. M.


Title: Notes on Debates, 28 May 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Wednesday 28 May
No Congress


Title: Virginia Delegates to Virginia Auditors of Public Accounts, 28 May 1783
From: Virginia Delegates
To: Virginia Auditors of Public Accounts

Philadelphia May 28th 1783
J Ambler Esqr. having remitted to James Madison for use of the Virga. Delegates two Bills of Exchange for five hundred Pounds Virga. Curcy drawn on Messrs. Lacaze & Mallet in favor of Paul Loyal[l] and Compy we have in consequence thereof, received the following proportions respectively viz J. Madison 2326⅓ T B. 794⅓ J.F. 212⅓ for which sums the auditors of the Commonwealth will please to issue warrants on our accts respectively in favor of J Ambler Esqr
Signed J. MT. BJ F M


Title: Statement of Receipts from Treasurer of Virginia, [28 May] 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

[28 May 1783]
Philada. Received from Jaquelin Ambler Esqr. Treasurer of Virginia on account of my Salary as a Delegate to Congress the sums following, to wit,

1783

March 29.
out of money from Wm. Satchel

Sheriff of Northampton County

£50.
Virga. Curry.

out of two bills of exchange

one for £300 on Saml. Inglis & Co. and the other for £200 on Wm.
}

Turnbul & Co

100.

May 6.
out of a bill of exchange on

Jno. Ross for £500

100.

28.
out of two bills of exchange each

for £500 on Lacaze & Mallet

697.18

£947.18

For which several receipts amounting as above to nine hundred forty seven pounds eighteen Shillings Virginia currency I hereby request the Auditors of public accounts to issue a warrant or warrants placing the same to my debit.
J. Madison Jr.


Title: Notes on Debates, 29 May 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Thursday May 29.
The report of the Committee concerning Interest on British debts was committed after some discussion.


Title: Notes on Debates, 30 May 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Friday May 30
The debates on the report recommending to the States a compliance with the 4th. 5. & 6th. of the provisional articles were renewed; the report being finally committed nem: con: see Secret Journal
The Report including the objections to interest on British debts; was also agreed to nem: con: not very cordially by some who were indifferent to the object; and by others who doubted the mode of seeking it by a new stipulation.


Title: Benjamin Harrison to Virginia Delegates, 31 May 1783
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Virginia Delegates

Gentlemen
Virginia in Council May 31st. [1783].
A few days ago an Express from Baylors Regiment delivered the enclosed by which you will [find] they have mutinied and the [Cause] they assign for their conduct. General Morgan & two of the Supernumerary Officers of the Corps were sent the n[e]xt Day to meet them & carry them to Winchester, which [w]e understand from Doctor L[e]e was agreeable to the determination of Congress who proposed to order th[em into t]he State to be [dis]banded; you will please [to la]y the Letter before them for their Directions. I wrote to the Mutineers and sharply reprimande[d] them for their conduct but promised in consideration of their past Services to overlook it as far as it related to me. They are really a band of heroes who have performed great & meritorious Services, and I am Satisfied would not have taken this rash Step if their Sufferings had not been very great. [En]closed you have an open Letter [to] Coulougnac & co. in answer to one [wro]te to you which youl please to forward with the one to Mr. Mazzie.
I am with great respect Gentlemen Your mo: ob: Humble Servant
Benj: Harrison
P. S. You have inclosed a resolve of the Genl Ass[embly app]roving of a Tre[aty of Com]merce N. C.


Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, 31 May 1783
From: Jones, Joseph
To: Madison, James

Dr. Sir.
Richmd. 31 May 1783
I should have been uneasy on account of your health had I not heard Letters were received from you by the last Post as I had none myself this or the last week. If you wrote as I suppose you did the letters must have either miscarried or been stopt at Fredericksburg. We have not yet been in a Com: on the papers from Congress, and I begin to fear the opposition will be more powerfull, than the last week I apprehended. individual and local considerations appear to me to be too general and so fixed as to afford but small consolation to those, who wish the policy of the State to be governed by more enlarged & liberal principles. I do not however, yet, dispair of the Assemblys adopting the plan recommended by Congress for establishing funds to discharge the national debt, although a fact mentioned to me yesterday evening (that P. H. was deserting the measure) alarms my fears. Since my last the Bill for postponing to the 20th. of Nov. next the making distress for the Taxes has passed the Delegates by a Majority of 13 and was the day before yesterday assented to by the Senate. hurtfull and dangerous as this step will I fear prove, it was warmly espoused by Mr. H——y, opposed by his Antagonist and every effort made to fix the day to an earlier period, but in vain. It is true the people are in many places distressed for Indian corn. Tobacco flour and hemp have greatly increased in their price while imported articles have considerably decreased yet such was the rage for giving ease to the people nothing could be offered sufficiently forceable to prevent the suspension taking place. The Memorial of the Officers of the Virga. line has been reported by the Com: reasonable and the several resolutions reported by the Com: in consequence stand refd. to the Com: of the whole on the State of the Commonwealth. this proceeding is repugnant to the Cession of the lands beyond the Ohio, and giving a preference to the Offs: of our line to those of other States, will excite discontints in the Army, as well as involve us in controversy with Congress. these obstacles, if they shall not ultimately defeat, will at least delay our determination. whatever is meant to be done respecting the Cession shod. be hastened, and the result communicated as soon as possible. A voluminous Tobacco Bill has taken up great part of this week we got rid of it yesterday and have sent it to the Senate. A Bill to repeal an act of the last Session “to prohibit intercourse with and the admission of British Subjects into this State” and another Bill in consequence to repeal the law “declaring who shall be deemed Citizens” and for declaring who shall be deemed Citizens, are before the House. the two great leaders of the House are Upon these bills united both concuring in the repeal of the former and opposing the passage of the Latter; but I think upon different princip[les,] the one P. H. conceiving it the true interest of the State to adm[it] all Classes of people withot. distinction, the other not only perh[aps] for the same reason but for others also and in particular that he thinks the Articles of the Treaty preclude us from discrimination. The Citizen bill may come under consideration to day the Advocates for it are disposed to exclude all Natives who have left the Country since April 75, all who having taken the Oath of Allegiance to the States or held offices under either from that period who have gone over to the Enemy. these matters are premature and I could have wished them to have been delayed to a future day. they may probably be yet postponed. Sr. Guy Carletons conduct respecting the Negros is considered here as evasive of the articles of the Treaty and confirms in their opinions if it does not increase the number opposed to the payment of British debts. time for payment and deduction of the interest during the War seems to be generally the Sentiment, and to be desired by many of those, who are supposed to be most attached to the British interest. The day before yesterday we were informed that abt. 100 of Baylors Regiment of Cavalry were on their way in N. Carolina to this State withot. any officer above subalterns to command them. the reasons assigned by them for their conduct—want of provision for themselves and Horses. I suspect the true ground of their desertion to be the order for their remaining when [t]he Infantry were to march to this State which I think took place before I left Philadelphia. That they might not distu[rb] the inhabitants in their rout by plunder and probably occasion the sheding of blood in consequence, Genl. Morgan who was here with some other officers were sent to ta[ke] the command of them and conduct them to Winchester. pray inform me what has been done respecting the Indians since I left Congress. whr. any steps have be[en] taken in consequence of the orders given the Comr. in Chie[f] concerning them. Tell Mr. Mercer I must leave him fo[r] the present to his friend Monroe and other Correspond[ents.] The bill rendering Delegates to Congress ineligible in future to the legislature has passed the Senate. do you come in and when? I am,
Yr. Friend & Servt.
Jos: Jones


Title: To James Madison from Jacquelin Ambler, 1 June 1783
From: Ambler, Jacquelin
To: Madison, James

Dr. Sir
Richmond Virga. 1st. June 1783.
As Colo. Bland was the only Member left at Congress, beside yourself, to whom any considerable Arrears could be due, I made no doubt of your being able to draw a part of yours on the receipt of the £1000. last sent, without any difficulty on yours, or inconvenience on the part of your Colleagues; and therefore did not mention the matter in a general letter to them, which perhaps I ought to have done. I hope, however, the business has been settled to your satisfaction, and that the surplus of the general remittance and the £300. sent on your own particular Accot. by Mr. Webb will have rubbed off a good part of the Score of Arrears. I am the more anxious on this head because there is very little probability of the Treasurys being in such Circumstances soon as to enable me to make any considerable payment on this or any other Accot. The Assembly have passed a Law for postponing the collection of the Taxes for the present Year, so that no supplies will get into the Treasury til April next. We have nothing to depend on for support of Government, and to answer pressing Claims made every hour of the day to the amount of hundreds of thousands of pounds but the deficiencies of the Taxes of the last, Year; which, if paid in Commutables, in Hemp particularly, as I expect they will, there will be scarce sufficient raised to pay the bal. of the £80000 ordered at the last Session to be paid to the United States. I know not what will be the consequence
God bless you
J. A.


Title: Notes on Debates, 2 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Monday… June 2… see Journals


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 3 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

My dear friend
Philada. June 3d. 1783.
I thank you cordially for the narrative of legislative proceedings contained in your favor of the 24th ulto In return for the Journal of the House of Delegates I inclose herewith a copy of the proceedings of Congs. since Novr. last. There is a chasm in the Journal you have sent arising from the miscarriage of yr. letter which ought to have come by the preceding mail.
The idea of protracting my service in Congs. into a part of the ensuing year does not coincide with the plans which I have in view after Novr. next. I had rather therefore not stand in the way of another Gentleman whom it might suit better, and whose attendance would be more certain. If a reduction of the number of Delegates should take place it will be still more essential not to include me.
I have recd. from Mr. Webb £100 refd. to in yours. The remittance of £1000 havg. been shared not equally as heretofore but according to our respective arrears, this sum will somewhat overpay me. You will therefore not apply for other warrants in my behalf. I wish you had reserved the £50 which you advanced for me sometime ago & that you wd. now draw on me for it if it be more convenient for you to receive it here, or you can readily sell a bill where you are. It will be perfectly convenient for me to pay it.
Being somewhat indisposed in my head & also pressed for time I beg leave to refer to Mr. Jones instead of repeating what I have written to him.
Adieu My dear sir & be assured that I am yr. sincere friend
J. M.
I have a letter from a Correspondt. of Mazzei at Nantz, which informs me that [he] was at Paris in Feby. and wd. sail for America in March or April.


Title: Notes on Debates, 4 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Wednesday June 4.
The Report of the Committee for giving to the army certificates for land was taken up. After some discussion of the subject, some members being for and some agst. making the certificates tra[n]sferrable it was agreed that the Report should lie on the table.
For what passed in relation to the Cession of vacant territory by Virga. see the Journal.
Whilst Mr. Hamiltons motion relating to Mr. Livingston Secretary of For: affrs. was before the House, Mr. Peters moved, in order to detain Mr. Livingston in office, that it be declared by the Seven States present that the Salary ought to be augmented. To this it was objected 1. that it would be an assumption of power in 7. States to say what 9 States ought to do. 2. that it might ensnare Mr. Livingston. 3. that it would commit the present States, who ought to be open to discussion when 9 States should be on the floor. The motion of Mr. Peters being withdrawn, that of Mr. Hamilton was agreed to.


Title: To James Madison from the Reverend James Madison, 4 June 1783
From: Madison, James (Reverend)
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
June 4th 1783.
I recd. the Seal by Mr. Jones & am much obliged to you for the Trouble you have given yourself relative to it. The offer you made of having the Bill safely lodged with Scott the Engraver, has induced me to inclose it to you or in your Absence to Mr. Mercer. I ought to apologize for calling the Attention of either of you from more important Business, but am persuaded you will not require one.
Believe me to be Yrs. sincerely
J. Madison
Your Friends, the Atty & Lady are now here. I wish you were of the Party.
If Mr. Mercer, in the Absence of Col. Madison shd. open this, he will oblige me much by sending the inclosed to Scott—the Engraver


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Randolph, 4 June 1783
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Madison, James

My dear sir
Wmsburg. June 4. 1783.
George Hay has, I hope, complied with my directions in transmitting the operations of the assembly. From this place I can forward nothing new, except the folly of a french captain, who refused to enter with the naval officer on his arrival, insisting that some protection or other, which he possessed under his king, was paramount to any internal regulation here. The naval officer went on board of his vessel in company with another Frenchman; and both of them remonstrated with him on the folly of his obstinacy; but neither could prevail. By this means he has exposed himself or rather his ship to Seizure and condemnation must be his lot.
These foolish events irritate much: and will doubtless be handed to you in Philadelphia with some exaggeration, which it may acquire from the narrative of the party, who is likely to sustain loss. But I cannot be mistaken, because I made it a point to represent the case in its just colours to a Mr. La croix in this town. He answered, that he had stated it in the same light to his countryman, but his labours to recover him were ineffectual.


Title: Instruction to Virginia Delegates in re Contracts, 4 and 7 June 1783
From:
To:

In the House of Delegates
Wednesday the 4th of June 1783
Resolved that the Delegates representing this State in Congress be instructed to take proper Steps for procuring and transmitting to the Executive of this State copies of all Accounts and Vouchers relative to disbursements and Contracts made with the Individuals of this State by any person acting under the authority of Congress in order that a proper inquiry may be made into their conduct.

Teste

John Beckley CHD

1783 June 7th.

Agreed to by the Senate.

Will Drew. C. S


Title: Notes on Debates, 5 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Thursday June 5. see Journal.


Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 5 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To: Madison, James, Sr.

Hon[?]d Sir.
Philada. June 5. 1783.
By the post preceding the last I answered yours of the 16th. addressing it to the care of Mr. Maury. I was prevented by more necessary writing from inclosing the papers again by the lasts post as I had intended. I now supply the omission by two Gentlemen going to Fredericksbg. All the news we have recd. is contained in them, and respects solely the arrangement which is at length made of a British Ministry.
Having sent several copys of the pamphlet of Congress on the subject of Revenue &c. which I suppose will be transcribed in the Virga. gazettes, I shall add nothing on that subject presuming that you will thro’ some channel or other obtain a sight of these proceedings. I inclose a memorandum of the books which I wish you to select from Docr. Hamilton’s Catalogue. I shall take care not to disappoint you of the chair* which I promised to bring with me. The time of my setting out is as uncertain as at the date of my last; but it will certainly take place before the fall. Remember me affecy. to my mother & all the family & be assured that I am yr. dutiful son
J. Madison Jr.
I have the promise of the books for Moses Joseph & expect to bring them with me.


Title: Notes on Debates, 6 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Friday June 6.
The report as to the territorial Cession of Virga. after some uninteresting debate was adjourned.


Title: Benjamin Harrison to Virginia Delegates, 7 June 1783
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Virginia Delegates

Gentlemen
In Council June 7th. 1783.
I have rec’d. your favor by the last Post, and have no official Communications to make you. We are anxiously waiting for the definitive Treaty, some of our People can hardly persuade themselves that Peace is yet certain and our Merchants wish to Keep them in that Opinion. I beg the favor of you to send me the address of Congress &ca. the one sent me by your President was immediately forwarded to the Assembly without reading so that I dont know any of it’s Contents.
I am Gentlen. &c.
B. H.


Title: Notes on Debates, 9 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Monday June 9th.
Not States enough assembled to make a Congress. Mr. Clarke signified to those present, that the Delegates of N. Jersey being instructed on the subject of the Back lands, he should communicate the Report thereon to his Constituents.


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Pendleton, 9 June 1783
From: Pendleton, Edmund
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Virga. June 9th. 1783
In answer to yr favr of the 27th past, I should be glad to give you a full detail of the Sentiments of the Assembly, upon the Budget before them, but having left Richmond a fortnight, I can say nothing as to individual Opinions, and they have not made any Public determination, except to order in a Bill for the 5 P Cent as mentd. in my last, since which I have heard nothing from them on that subject. You’l probably be informed from thence of the Election of Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Hardy, Mr Mercer, Dr Lee & Mr Monroe for our next years Delegates to Congress. I was a deal disappointed in not finding you continued, that we might have had yr services ’til February, a point wch seemed agreed on when I left Richmond, but perhaps some letter from you prevented it.
We are just told of a considerable number of arrivals from Europe, but not the particulars, the price of our tobacco will soon be fix’d.
Have you yet found out what sort of a wife C. T. has? I want to hear, & yet I fear the Account will be disagreeable—should it be otherwise, my concern will be for her. I am
Dr Sir Yr affe & obt Servt
Edmd Pendleton


Title: Notes on Debates, 10 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Tuesday June 10.
The Report on the Cession of Virga. was taken up. Mr. Elseworth urged the expediency of deciding immediately on the Cession. Mr. Hamilton joined him, asserting at the same time the right of the U. States. He moved an amendment in favor of private claims. Mr. Clarke was strenuous for the right of the U. S. and agst. waiting longer. (this had reference to the absence of Maryland which had always taken a deep interest in the question) Mr. Gorham supported the policy of acceding to the report. Mr. Fitzimmons recommended a postponement of the question, observing that he had sent a copy of the Report to the Maryland Delegates. The President was for a postponement till the sense of N. Jersey be known. The Delaware Delegates expecting instructions were for postponing till Monday next. It was agreed at length that a final vote should not be taken till that day Mr. M. yielding to the sense of the House, but warning that the opportunity might be lost by the rising of the Legislature of Virga.
Mr. Hamilton & Mr. Peters with permission moved for a recommitment of the Report, in order to provide for Crown titles within the territory reserved to the State. Mr. Madison objected to the motion, since an amendment might be prepared during the week & proposed on Monday next. This was acquiesced in. It was agreed that the President might informally notify private Companies & others as well as the Maryland Delegates of the time at which the Report would be taken into consideration
The Order of the day for appointing a Secretary of For: Affairs, was called for, & none having been put in nomination, the order was postponed. Mr. Bland then nominated Mr. Arthur Lee, Mr. Gorham nominated Mr. Jefferson, but being told he would not accept, then named Mr. Tilghman, Mr. Higginson nominated Mr. Jonathan Trumbull. Mr. Mongomery nominated Mr. George Clymer. It was understood that Genl. Schuyler remained in nomination


Title: Report on Rights of Neutral Nations, [12 June] 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

[12 June 1783]
The Come. to whom was referred the letter & papers from Mr. Dumas with the Report of the Secy. of F.A. thereon report that it appears from the sd. papers as stated in the said Report.
1st. that it appears from them, that propositions have been made on the part of the States General to the ministers of the United States at Paris, (in order to render an express stipulation in favor of the freedom of navigation less necessary in the treaty of peace between great Britain & the United Provinces of the Netherlands,) either to accede to the treaty of the armed neutrality already concluded between some powers of Europe, or to enter into similar engagements with France, Spain and the United Provinces of the Netherlands—or in case France & Spain should refuse to enter into a convention founded on the principles of the armed neutrality, or wish to delay it till after the general peace, to form a separate convention for similar purposes between the United Provinces of the Netherlands & the United States of America.
That the answers to these propositions do not appear from the papers transmitted, tho’ there is room to infer from Mr Dumas’s Letter of the 4th. and 18th. of February, that the two first of these propositions were encouraged by our Ministers, and that the states general proposed to act in consequence thereof, & had made the last proposition in order to be prepared in case either or both of the two first should fail.

It appears to Mr. Livingston that no powers are at present vested in any person in Europe to agree to any treaty similar to that entered into by Russia, Sweden, Denmark & the United provinces of the Netherlands after the peace shall be concluded The resolution of the 5th. of October 1780, empowers the ministers of those states, if invited thereto, to accede to such regulations conformable to the spirit of the declaration of the Empress of Russia as may be agreed upon by the Congress expected to assemble in pursuance of the invitation of her Imperial Majesty. our ministers received no invitation & special powers were afterwards given to Mr. Dana, which in their nature superseded that resolution. Mr. Dana was by his commission & instruction empowered to sign the treaty or convention for the protection of commerce in behalf of the United States either with her Imperial Majesty in conjunction with the other neutral powers, or if that shall be inadmissible, separately with her Imperial Majesty or any of those (that is those neutral) powers.
The Treaty being only made to continue during the war, his powers terminated with the war, or at most extended only to sign it with the neutral powers & not to form a new & separate treaty.
Whereupon the Come. observe that as the primary object of the Resolution of Ocr. 5. 1780 & of the Comon. & instructions to Mr. Dana relative to the accession of the U.S. to the Neutral Confederacy, no longer can operate, and as the true interest of these States requires that they shd. be as little as possible entangled in the politics & controversies of European Nations, it is inexpedient for Congs. to renew the said powers either to Mr. Dana or to the other Ministers in Europe; But inasmuch as the liberal principles on which the said confederacy was established are conceived to be in general favorable to the interests of Nations, & particularly to those of the U.S. & ought in that view to be promoted by the latter as far as will consist with their fundamental policy. Resolved journal [?] amendmt that the Ministers Plenipoy. for peace be instructed to endeavor if it can be done without delaying the definitive Treaty to comprise therein a mutual recognition & establishment of the Rights of Neutral Nations conformable to the principles of the said Confederacy, so far as the same can be done without entering into stipulations which may involve these States in contests or wars for the maintanence of those principles.


Title: Notes on Debates, 12 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Thursday June 12.
The Instruction in the Secret Journal touching the principles &c of the Neutral Confederacy, passed unanimously.
The Resolution as reported by the Committee being in a positive style, and eight States only being present, the question occurred whether nine States were not necessary. To avoid the difficulty a negative form was given the Resolution; by which the preamble became somewhat unsuitable. It was suffered to pass however, rather than risk the experiment of further alteration.


Title: Notes on Debates, 13 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Friday June 13.
The mutinous memorial from the Sergeants was recd. & read. It excited much indignation & was sent to the Secretary at war.


Title: To James Madison from Jacquelin Ambler, 14 June 1783
From: Ambler, Jacquelin
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Richmond Virga 14 June 1783
I am afraid I shall find it difficult to settle my Accounts with the Committee, without obtaining Warrants from the Auditors in favor of the Gentlemen of the delegation to the full amount of the genl. Remittances made since the first of the present Year. in order to obtain these, I must entreat you to interest yourself with the Gentlemen who now remain at Phila. to sign a Certificate some what similar to the one inclosed. Mr. Jones & Mr. Lee I doubt not will sign here. I am at a loss to discover how the deficiency arises which you mention:—if in negotiating the Bills,—the same I apprehend would have happened had the Bills been sent by any other person;—if actual money had been paid here, which is what the Act requires of me, & this money sent in Specie to Phila., the loss must have been still [?] more considerable. I am, however, very unwilling the Gentlemen should lose a shilling of their right, & therefore take the liberty of pointing out the proper mode of preventing it, which is, by giving the Treasury credit in each of their Accounts for the full amount of their proportion of the several Genl. Remittances, and charging the State with the proportion of loss sustained by each in negotiating the Bills—this will effectually save them. You will readily observe the loss must fall on me if the Certificate to the Auditors do not express the full amount, because they will issue Warrants for no greater sum than the Certificate mentions.
there has not issued a single Warrant for any of the Remittances I have made on the Genl. Account in this year; these amount to . [I] cannot precisely ascertain the sum, because I am not informed what was paid by the Sheriff of Northampton. You will be so good as return me the Certificate as soon as possible, that I may be enabled to settle my Accounts before the rising of the Assembly.
if you have not purchased the Stationary please to think no more of it. perhaps it may be had on as good terms here.
Yrs.
J.A.
Me[nti]on the Sum paid by the Northampton Shff in yr. next that I may give him credit for it

The Certificates before sent acknowledging the receipt of monies for the several Remittances shall be returned to you as soon as I get the genl. one requested above


Title: To James Madison from Joseph Jones, 14 June 1783
From: Jones, Joseph
To: Madison, James

Dr. Sir.
Richmond 14th. June 1783
I have your favors of the 3d. & 6th. with the papers inclosed. since my last the plan of revenue recommended by Congress has been considered in a Comtee. of the whole, and the result contained in the inclosed resolutions which were agreed to withot. a division [;] the number appearing in support of the plan of Congress being so few as not to require it. Mr. B——xt——n and young Mr. Nelson only supported it. In the course of the debate Mr. R. H. L. & Mr. C. M. T. spoke of Congress as lusting after power. the Idea in the Letter to Rhode Island, that Congress having a right to borrow & make requisitions that were binding on the States, ought also to concert the means for accomplishing the end, was reprobated in general as alarming, and of dangerous tendency. In short some of the Sentiments in the letter to Rhode Island tho’ argumentative only, operated so powerfully on peoples minds here, that nothing could induce them to adopt the manner recommended by Congress for obtaining revenue. If the 5 PCt is granted to be credited to the States quota, which is the prevailing opinion, it will defeat that revenue unless all the States consent, and N. H. Cont Jersey & N. Car: never will I expect agree to it. Our people have great jealousy of Congress and the other states, think they have done more than they ought, and that the U. S. owe them at least one million pounds. these notions they will not relinquish tho’ they acknowledge they are not ready to settle the account. after the two first resolutions had passed P. H. separated from R. H. L. & his party and warmly supported the granting the duties to Congress and the other revenue to make up this State’s quota. I will make an attempt to obtain the 5 Pct. as a general revenue, and to authorize the payment of the other revenue by the Collectors to the Continental receiver, instead of the State Treasurer. if these can be effected the funds will be on a tolerable footing, but for the delay which a departure from the plan of Congress must occasion. The disposition to oblige the Officers of our line with lands beyond the Ohio in the room of thos[e] on Cumberland, which are said to be insufficient and very generally barren, has occasioned several leading memb[ers] to press for withdrawing our cession to Congress, that no obstacle might remain to gratifying the Officers. hitherto we have been lucky enough to delay a determination, which however cannot be many more days postponed. A. L. proposed a resolution two days ago to withdraw it. an amendment was proposed to fix a time (the 1st. Sept. next) when it shod. stand revoked if not accepted by Congress. the Committee rose withot. coming to a resl something of this sort will I think ultimately take place. if a secret instruction to our Delegates was practicable to relax, if necessary, any of the Conditions, I shod. like it, as I wish heartily to relinquish that Country to the U. States. the expence attending that Country I shall soon know as the Commissioners who have been out to settle the accoun[ts] are just returned. the proposed alteration for ascertaining the proportions of the States, from the conversations I have had with Gentlemen on the subject will be approved. I entertain however no sanguine expectation of any thing I hear in conversation since the great Majority agt the plan of revenue, which from conversation when I first arrived I was led to believe wod. be adopted. many now say the reading the pamphlet of Congress determined them agt. the measure, disapproving the Sentiments conveyed in the letter to R. I. You cannot well conceive the deranged state of affairs in this Country. there is nothing like system or order. confusion and embarrasmt. must ever attend such a state of things. The two great Commanders make excellent harrangues, handsome speeches to their men but they, want executive Officers or shod. be more so themselves to be usefull, indeed, so far as I am able to judge from the short time I have been here, we are much in want of usefull men, who do business as well as speak to it. a Pendleton and Jefferson wod. be valuable acquisitions to this assembly. we want too a Fitzsimons or some men of his merchantile knowledge and experience.
The Citizen bill remains in the Situation as when I last wrote. before we rise it is probable something may be done in it, especially if the definitive Treaty arrives, which it is probable, as a Ministry has been formed, will soon take place. To divest those who appeared to oppose the payment of the British debts from any attempt of that sort so repugnant to the article of the Treaty and as an alternative less offensive I have intimated that it wod. be better to giv[e] an instruction to our Commrs. for settling the Treaty of Commerce to propose a suspension of payment for some years to make it more convenient to the Debtors and it is probable something may be done in that way as an instruction to our Delegates in Congress. In a Com: on the State of the Commonwealth yesterday, Nathans demand in consequence of the arbitration was taken up but Mr. N——l——s insisting there was a Comr. in Town employed in settling the accots. agt. the public of the Illinois Country who could give information abt. that claim, and shew there had been fraud in the transaction, the Com[ee]. rose withot. coming to a conclusion. it is to be brot. on again today when the Comr. (Col. Fleming) is to be examined. It is asserted great impositions have taken place in polloc[k’s] affair, which is also before the House and to come on next Tuesday. I have sold my Chariot and I think shd my Phaeton, in which case, and if I get the money for them I may spend two or three months this fall in Philadelphia as I must get a carriage made there. of this you shall be informed. Complimts. to Bland & Mercer hope they will be content to rece[ive] from you an accot. of what we are doing if not otherwise informed.
Yrs.
Jos: Jones


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Randolph, 14 June 1783
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Madison, James

My dear friend
Richmond. June 14. 1783.
It is with real mortification, that I find an abortion of the scheme of impost. By some unaccountable revolution the zealous patrons have cooled, and seem united with its enemies to deal it out through our own treasury, without subjecting it to congress. Perhaps however the most considerable terror which was played off against the proposition, was the furnishing beyond the quota from an excessive consumption in this country. A certain party, which has been adverse to the plan in more places than one, appear to have remained uniform in the most bitter opposition. As I write with a despondency on this subject I shall leave the particulars of what passed within the walls of the assembly to Mr. Jones, especially too as I have been employed for a week past in another general court.
A great clamour will probably be excited against the legislature for having voted the payment of their own wages out of a fund, already plighted for other uses. At first sight the measure seems very reprehensible: and indeed there is scarcely an excuse, unless it be the danger, which the nonpayment of those wages, would introduce, of an aristocratical, or at least an opulent representation alone.
It is probable, that the half blood will be rendered heritable in the course of the session. A good measure, dictated by bad motives.
The sum of 50,000 £ is directed to be paid to congress: but Mr. Webb, the receiver, informs me, that they exact the price of 40s [?] per hundred for tobacco. He will be obliged to submit to this valuation, or lose his chance of payment, as tobacco is the fund of the principal reliance.
I am now able to say, that the cession to congress has never yet been formally repealed, however it may be in the power of the assembly to consider it so, from the refusal of congress to accept.


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Pendleton, 16 June 1783
From: Pendleton, Edmund
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Virga. June 16th 1783
I thank you for yr very Polite concern for my health express’d in yr favour of the 3d. Rest has restored the decay produced by fatigue in the last term, but how shall I remove that Radical one the effect of 62? no matter, let time with all its consequences take its course.
Your observations that the drain of Specie from this State will depend on the ballance of our trade, rather than on the mode of collecting the State’s quota of the Continental debt, are judicious, solid & indeed unanswerable. we have it in our power to secure a very large Ballance in commerce, and live elegantly, but whether we have virtue, industry & Œconomy enough to adopt the means, I can’t help doubting & shall be very agreably disappointed, in an eventual Solution of these doubts—of which the crowds of people to the Stores newly opened give an unfavourable prospect. I have yet to learn the progress of yr revenue scheme in the Assembly, as our delegates are at present absent, & I have not lately heard what they are about. you’l probably hear [from] some of yr City correspondents.
The motive was obvious for the Gents. saying they rejoiced at the slaves having been sent away from New-York as an infraction of the treaty wch would justify the non-payment of British debts; however this was only private conversation. I believe the Assembly will say nothing on the subject, wch indeed seems improper until the definitive Treaty is communicated, the delay of wch. I suppose chargeable to the want of an Administration in Britain, and not to their disinclination to Peace; so that if your Intelligence be true of the formation of that body, we may now soon expect the Treaty and their American trade Act.

I heard nothing at Richmond of the proposal concerted between you and the Maryland Delegates for removing the Seat of Congress to George Town. Mr Jefferson mentioned when here, a kind of competition for that honr. between George Town & Esopus in New York, who had severally made considerable Offers in Jurisdiction & property, to induce congress to hold their Sessions with them. the Assembly of Maryland were no doubt influenced in the change to Annapolis, by a respect to their Metropolis, the ready provision at that place for the Accommodation of Congress, and perhaps from an inclination to preserve the whole benefit to themselves, of which Virginia at George Town would have participated. For my own part I care not, since tho’ no doubt there are advantages in the great circulation of money wherever Congress sit, yet I am so old fashioned as to think that overballanced by another thing wch Circulates with it & need not be named. so that I doubt if Philadelphia would not have a good bargain to give up all advantages on this head to be restored to the Morals her citizens possessed in 1775. don’t let me be misunderstood as insinuating the smallest reflection on the Morals of the members of Congress: ’tis not from them, but the company which they draw to them, that I suppose the evil to be apprehended: As Maryland has thus changed her ground, I suppose Virginia will have nothing more to do in it.
I don’t understand the effect of Furloughing the Soldiers, as a saving measure; I suppose their pay continues, and as to their provisions, tho’ it be saved to the Public, yet if I am not mastaken in my Conjecture that most of them are foreigners, without property & without relations to support them. Individuals where they go will have a bad bargain of this mode of supplying the Provisions which they must & will have. however I mean not to find fault with the measure, for which I doubt not there were reasons that Overballanced this small objection; I wish the British Troops were gone from the States that we might put an end to the expence of the Army altogether.
Crad. T’s Marriage has perhaps produced one good effect in driving him to Sea, where, if at all, he may do something. You don’t say how he married, & I suppose it imprudent enough. he left considerable property in the hands of his brother T. but on what terms I know not, tho’ have heard that the latter purchased it. I have communicated C’s sailing to his mother, who wishes to know the sort of wife he has got. I am with the greatest esteem & regard
Dr Sir Yr Affe friend
Edmd Pendleton


Title: Receipt of Robert Scot, 16 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Philada. June 16. 1783. Recd of J. Madison an order on Messrs. Biddle & Co. for eight pounds fifteen shillings, which on being paid, shall be a discharge in full of the sum due for a seal by me engraved for the University at Williamsburg
Rot Scot


Title: Notes on Debates, 17 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Tuesday June 17
The day was employed chiefly in considering the Report on the Journal relative to the Department of Finance. Some thought it ought to lie on the files: some that it ought to receive a vote of approbation, and that the Superintendant, should, for the period examined, be acquitted of further responsibility. Mr. Gorham particularly was of that opinion. Finally the Report was entered on the Journal without any act of Congress thereon, by a unanimous concurrence.


Title: Virginia Delegates to Benjamin Harrison, 17 June 1783
From: Virginia Delegates
To: Harrison, Benjamin

Sir
Philadelphia June 17th. 1783
Since our last to Yr. Excellency, little has occurr’d worthy of communication. A Letter from General Washington encloses a very feeling address from the Officers of that part of the Army, comprehended in the late Resolution of Congress hertofore transmitted to Yr Excelly. Their minds too much agitated by the contemplation of prospects, cruel & dispiriting, gave way to suspicions (founded on the indefinite terms of the furlough.) that this mode was adopted to disperse them, & to avoid a compliance with that part of their request which, related to paymt on their discharge. they lamented but in strong & manly terms that they were to end their toils & hardships by returning to inevitable distress, without any aleeviation of their present wants. They implor’d his interference as their General & as their friend. The Commander in Chief then explained to them, that this measure was calculated to promote their interest, without endangering the safety of the States. That by this means the money which must otherwise be expended in their subsistance, woud now be appropriated to the paymt. of part of their dues. He said, that in justice to Congress, he could not but declare his sentiments. That they had made every exertion within their Power to obviate the present distresses of & to procure final justice to the Army. By this prudent, wise & noble conduct of General Washington gathered discontents, which now seemed again ready to burst forth, were on[c]e more happily assuaged, & the Resolution of Congress were quietly complied with.
A Spirit of Mutiny discovered itself in the Troops immediately in Phila. that at first wore an alarming aspect, but by timely exertion it terminated without any ill consequences.
Yr. Excellency will receive the Pamphlett you require.
We have the honor to be &c. Yr. Excellency’s most obt. humble Servants
J. Madison Jr.John F. Mercer


Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 17 June 1783
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Monticello June 17. 1783.
Your favours of the 13th. & 20th. Ult. came to hand about a week ago. I am informed the assembly determined against the capacity of reelection in those gentlemen of the delegation who could not serve a complete year. I do not know on what this decision could be founded. my hopes of the success of the Congressional propositions here have lessened exceedingly. mr. Henry had declared in favor of the impost: but when the question came on he was utterly silent. I understand it will certainly be lost if it be not already. instead of ceding more lands to the U.S. a proposition is made to revoke the former cession. mr. Henry is for bounding our state reasonably enough, but instead of ceding the parts lopped off he is for laying them off into small republics. what further his plan is I do not hear. however you get the parliamentary news so much more directly from Richmond that it is idle for me to give it you from hence.
A Convention for the amendment of our Constitution having been much the topic of conversation for some time, I have turned my Thoughts to the amendments necessary. The result I inclose to you. you will have opportunities during your stay in Philadelphia of enquiring into the success of some of the parts of it which tho’ new to us have been tried in other states. I shall only except against your communicating it to any one of my own country, as I have found prejudices frequently produced against propositions handed to the world without explanation or support. I trust that you will either now or in some future situation turn your attention to this subject in time to give your aid when it shall be finally discussed. the paper inclosed may serve as a basis for your amendment, or may suggest amendments to a better groundwork. I further learn that the assembly are excluding members of Congress from among them. whether the information they may derive from their presence, or their being marked by the confidence of the people, is the cause of this exclusion I cannot tell.
Be pleased to present me with affection to my acquaintances of the house & to receive yourself the sincerest assurances of the esteem with which I am Dr. Sir
Your friend & servt
Th: Jefferson
P.S. I will take the first opportunity of forwarding the pamphlet to your father.


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 17 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

My dear friend,
Philada. 17 June 1783.
Your favor of the 4th., the second from Williamsburg, was rcd. yesterday. I have recd. nothing from Mr. Hay during your absence from Richmond, but the omission has been supplied by Mr. Ambler whose letter by yesterday’s mail inclosed the Journals from the beginning. perhaps this supply was known to Mr. H.
The definitive Treaty is not yet on this side the wat[e]r; nor do we yet hear what stage it is in on the other side. Mr. Dana informs us in a letter of the 17 Feby. that in consequence of proper encouragement he had finally announced himself at the Court of Petersbg. but does not gratify us with a single circumstance that ensued. The gazette of this morning inclosed contains the latest intelligence from the British Parliamt. which I have seen.
The measure of furloughing the troops enlisted for the war has been carried into effect with the main army, and will save a great expence to the public. The prospect which it presented to the officers who were to retire from their subsistance with out receivg. the means of subsistance [elsewhere] produced a very pathetic representation to the Commander in chief. His answer by rectifying some errors on which it dwelt, and explicitly giving it as his opinion that Congress had now done every thing wch. could be expected from them towards fulfilling the engagements of their Country, had the effect to which it was entitled. The troops in the barracks at this place, emboldened by the arrival of a furloughed Regt. returning to Maryland, Sent in a very mutinous remonstrance to Congress, signed by the non-commissioned officers in behalf of the whole. It painted the hardships which they had suffered in the defence of their country & the duty of their Country to reward them, demanding a satisfactory answer the afternoon on which it was sent in, with a threat of otherwise taking such measures as would right themselves. The prudent & soothing measures taken by the Secy. at war & Gl. Sinclair have I believe obviated the embarrassment.
Another embarrassment, and that not a small one will soon be laid before them by a Committee. Genl. Washington, the Secy. at war and all the professional men who have been consulted, report, that at least 3 or 4 Regts. will be essential as a peace establishmt. for the U States, & that this establishmt. ought to be a Continental one. West point, the fronteir forts to the Westward, and a few garrisons on the Sea Shore, are conceived by them to be indispensable. Some Naval force is deemed at least equally so, with a few docks & protections for them. on looking into the articles of Confederation, the military power of Congress in time of peace, appears to be at least subject to be called in question. If Congress put a construction on them favorable to their own power, or even if they ask the States to sanction the exercise of the power, the present paroxism of jealousy may not only disappoint them, but may exert itself with more fatal effect on the Revenue propositions. On the other side to renounce such a construction, and refer the establishment to the separate & internal provision of the States will not only render the plan of defence either defective in a general view or oppressive to particular states, but may hereafter when the tide of prejudice may be flowing in a contrary direction, expose them to the reproach of unnecessarily t[hrowing] [a]way a power necessary for the good of the Union, and leaving the whole at the mercy of a single State. The only expedie[nt] for this dilemma seems to be delay; but even that is pregnant with difficulties equally great; since on the arrival of the definitive Treaty Congs must in pursuance of such a neutral plan suffer the whole military establishmt. to be dissolved, every garrisoned-post to be evacuated, and every strong hold to be dismantled; Their remaining ships of war too must be sold, and no preparatory steps taken for future emergencies on that side.
I am exceedingly pleased to find Mr. Jeffersons’ name at the head of the new Delegation. I hope it has been placed there with his knowledge and acquiescence.
The order of the day for electing a Secy. of F. Affairs was called for on Teusday last, but no nominations having been then made, the business was put off till the present day. The nominations since made are Mr. A. Lee by Mr. Bland—Mr. Jonathan Trumbell Jnr. by Mr. Higgenson—Col: Tilghman by Mr. Ghorum—Mr. George Clymer by Mr. Montgomery. Genl. Schyler has remained on the list since the fall, but was withdrawn by the Delegates of N. Jersey at the instance of Mr Hamilton. Mr. Jefferson was nominated by Mr. Ghorum, but withdrawn also on intimation that he would not undertake the service.
If Mr. Jones sd. have quitted Richmond forward if you please his letter. It is addressed to you in his absence. It contains little which is omitted in this, but you may open it. If he sd. not be gone you will let him see this, as it is somewhat fuller than his.


Title: Instruction to Virginia Delegates in re Fortifications, 17 June 1783
From: House of Delegates
To: Virginia Delegates

In the House of Delegates
The 17th June 1783
Resolved that it be an instruction to the Delegates representing this State in Congress to make application to Congress to obtain an order on the Continental Treasurer in this State for a sum of Money not exceeding seven hundred and fifty Pounds for the purposes of levelling the fortifications erected by the Troops of His Most Christian Majesty at York Town in the County of York and at Gloucester Town in the County of Gloucester

June 17th 1783
Teste

Agreed to by the Senate

John Beckley CHD
Will Drew CS.

A Copy Teste

John Beckley CHD


Title: Notes on Debates, 18 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Wednesday June 18.
Nothing done.


Title: Notes on Debates, 19 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Editorial Note
Following his terminal entry of 21 June 1783, JM inserted a folio considerably larger in size than the pages on which he had recorded his notes on debates. On this folio, which he covered with a folded half-page and inscribed “June 19. 1783,” he copied Hugh Williamson’s motion, mentioned in the first paragraph of his notes for that day. Although JM did not designate the insertion as a footnote to the paragraph, he obviously meant the motion to be a supplement thereto. For this reason the editors have added JM’s copy of the motion as the second paragraph of his notes.

Thursday June 19.
A motion was made by Mr. Williamson seconded by Mr. Bland, to recommend to the States to make it a part of the Confederation, that whenever a fourteenth State should be added to the Union, ten votes be required in cases now requiring nine. It was committed to Mr. Williamson, Mr. Hamilton and Mr. Madison. The motion had reference to the foreseen erection of the western part of N. Carolina into a separate State.
Motion of Mr. Williamson 2ded. by Mr. Bland June 19. 1783 commited to Mr. Williamson, Mr. Hamilton & Mr. Madison
Whereas the safety and peace of the U.S. are greatly interested in the no. of States that may be reqd. to vote on Questions of a particular class: and whereas it is provided by the 9th. article of the Confederation that the U S in C. asd. shall never engage in a war nor grant letters of marque & reprisal in time of peace, nor enter into any Treaties or Alliances nor coin money, nor regulate the value thereof, nor ascertain the sums & expences necessary for the defence & welfare of the U.S. or any of them, nor emit bills nor borrow money on the Credit of the U.S., nor appropriate money nor agree upon the no. of Vessels of war to be built or purchased or the no. of land or Sea forces to be raised, nor appt. a Commander in chief of the army, or navy, unless nine States assent to the same. It is also provided by the eleventh art: that no Colony except Canada shall be admitted into the Union unless such admission be agreed to by nine States, but no provision is made for the no. of States that may be reqd. to agree in determining such questions when the prest. no. of States shall have been increased: and Whereas the determination of those great questions by 9. States alone when the origl. no. may be considerably increased wd. be a manifest departure from the Spirit of the Confederation & might prove dangerous to the Union. Therefore
Resd. that whenever a 14. State shd. be admitd. into the prest. Union the vote & agreetn. [agreement] of 10 Sts. shall become necessy. for

determg all those quests. in the Congs. of U.S. wch. are now determd. by no less than 9.
Resd. that the asst. of 3 addl. States shall be necessy. in determg those questions for every 4 addl. Sts tht. may be admd. into the Union
Resd. that the sevl. Sts be advised to authorise their respective Delegs. to subscribe & ratify the above Resolves as part of the instrumt. of Union.
Information was recd. by Congress from the Executive Council of Pennsylvania, that 80 Soldiers, who would probably be followed by the discharged Soldiers of Armand’s Legion were on the way from Lancaster to Philadelpa. in spite of the expostulations of their officers, declaring that they would proceed to the seat of Congress and demand justice, and intimating designs agst. the Bank. This information was committed to Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Peters, and Mr. Ellsworth for the purpose of conferring with the Executive of Pennsylvania and taking such measures as they should find necessary. The Committee after so conferring informed Congress, that it was the opinion of the Executive that the militia of Philadelpa. would probably not be willing to take arms before their resentments should be provoked by some actual outrage; that it would hazard the authority of Govt. to make the attempt, & that it would be necessary to let the soldiers come into the City, if the officers who had gone out to meet them, could not stop them
At this information Mr. Izard Mr. Mercer & others being much displeased, signified that if the City would not support Congress, it was high time to remove to some other place. Mr Wilson remarked that no part of the U. States was better disposed towards Congs than Pennsylvania, where the prevailing sentiment was that Congress had done every thing that depended on them. After some conversation and directing Genl. St. Clair, who had gone out of Town, to be sent for, and it appearing that nothing further could be done at present, Congress adjourned. The Secy. at War had set out for Virginia yesterday. It was proposed to send for him, but declined as he had probably gone too great a distance, and Genl. St. Clair, it was supposed would answer.


Title: Notes on Debates, 20 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Friday June 20.
The Soldiers from Lancaster came into the City under the guidance of Sergeants. They professed to have no other object than to obtain a settlement of accounts, which they supposed they had a better chance for at Philadelphia than at Lancaster. [see the Report of the Committee on that subject]
The Report of the Committee [see the Journal] on the territorial Cession of Virga. being taken up, & the amendment on the Journal proposed by Mr. McHenry & Mr Clarke, being lost, Mr. Bedford proposed that the second condition of the Cession be so altered as to read “that in order to comply with the said Condition, so far as the same is comprized within the Resolution of ocr. 10. 1780. on that subject,” Commissioners as proposed by the Committee, be appointed &c. and that instead of “for the purposes mentioned in the said Condition,” be substituted “Agreeable to that Resolution.” In support of this alteration, it was urged by Mr. McHenry, Mr. Bedford & Mr. Clarke that the terms used by Virga. were too comprehensive & indefinite. In favor of the Report of the Committee, it was contended by Mr. Ellsworth that the alteration was unreasonable inasmuch as Civil expences were on the same footing of Equity as Military and that a compromize was the object of the Committee. Sundry members were of opinion that Civil expences were comprized in the Resolution of ocr. 10. 1780. Mr. Bland & Mr. Mercer acceded to the alteration proposed. Mr. Madison alone dissented, and therefore did not insist on a Call for the votes of the States. Mr. McHenry moved, but without being seconded “that the Commissioners instead of deciding finally should be authorized to report to Congress only.[”]
In the course of debate Mr. Clarke laid before Congress the Remonstrance of New Jersey as entered on the Journal.
As the Report had been postponed at the instance of the President & other Delegates of N. Jersey, in order to obtain this answer from their Constituents, and as the Remonstrance was dated on the 14th. of June, and was confessed privately by Mr.  to have been in possession of the Delegates on Monday last, an unfairness was complained of. They supposed that if it had been laid before Congress sooner the copy which would have been sent by the Virga. Delegates, might hasten the opening of the Land Office of that State. Mr. Clarke said there were still good prospects, and he did not doubt that the time would yet come when Congress would draw a line limiting the States to the westward & say thus far shall ye go & no farther. Mr. Bedford moved that with respect to the 4th & 5th. Conditions of the Cession “it be declared, that Clarke & his men, & the Virginia Line, be allowed the same bounty beyond the Ohio as was allowed by the U. S. to the same Ranks.” This Motion was seconded by  Congress adjourned without debating it; there being seven States only present and the spirit of compromise decreasing.
From several circumstances there was reason to believe that R. Island, N. Jersey Pennsylvania & Delaware, if not Maryland also retained latent views of confining Virginia to the Alegheny Mountains

Notice was taken by Mr. Madison of the Error in the Remonstrance, which recites “that Congress had declared the Cession of Virginia to be a partial one[”]


Title: Benjamin Harrison to Virginia Delegates, 20 June 1783
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Virginia Delegates

Gentlemen:
Richmond, June 20th: 1783.
I enclose you a Letter from mr. Cowper who with a Mr. Ballard were employ’d by me at the repeated request of Col. Richard H: Lee and the other Members of the Navy board at Philedelphia as Pilots to carry Hopkins’s fleet round to this Country to attack Lord Dunmore  they empower’d me to make the most liberal promisses of reward if they would undertake the Business, which they did do and arrived in Philedelphia in three Day[s] after they were apply’d to, where they remain’d six Weeks and were at last sent Home with no more Money than would bear their expences, but were promis’d their reward if they would keep a look out and be ready to go on Board the Fleet as soon as it should arrive here, this Service they also perform’d as far as it related to them being constantly on the look out till they were inform’d the Fleet had stear’d another Course. They have made several applications for their Money but without Success, and have now called on me to use my Endeavours to obtain them that Justice they are so well entitled to; indeed they look to me for it declaring that my Promises alone induced them to undertake the Business, which I verily believe to be true. You will readily determine what a Man of Sensibility must feel when he is call’d on to make Satisfaction for Services render’d the public at his request that he is not able to comply with, and I dare say will use your endeavours to have them paid they expect a Hundred pounds each tho’ I think they ought to be satisfied with Sixty. You have also two resolutions of the Assembly which were sent to me to be forwarded.
I am with respect Gentlemen Your most Obedient Servant
Benj Harrison


Title: Notes on Debates, 21 June 1783
From: Madison, James
To:

Editorial Note
These notes, comprising the final entry made by JM of the deliberations of Congress until he resumed his records in 1787, are dated only 21 June, though they summarize occurrences relating to the mutiny as late as 26 June. After its sessions on 21 June, Congress was adjourned until it reconvened at Princeton, N.J., on 30 June 1783. At least the last three paragraphs of the present notes, which closely resemble the wording of JM’s letter to Randolph on 30 June, were written after the Virginia delegates’ dispatch of 24 June to Governor Harrison (qq.v.).

Saturday June 21. 1783
The mutinous soldiers presented themselves, drawn up in the Street before the State House where Congress had first assembled. The Executive Council of the State sitting under the same roof, was called on for the proper interposition. President Dickinson came in, and explained the difficulty under actual circumstances, of bringing out the militia of the place for the suppression of the mutiny. He thought that without some outrages on persons or property the temper of the militia could not be relied on. Genl. St. Clair then in Philada. was sent for; and desired to use his interposition, in order to prevail on the troops to return to the Barracks. His report gave no encouragement. In this posture of things It was proposed by Mr. Izard that Congs. shd. adjourn. It was proposed by Mr. Hamilton that Genl. St. Clair in concert with the Executive Council of State should take order for terminating the mutiny. Mr. Reed moved that the Genl. shd. endeavor to withdraw the troops by assuring them of the disposition of Congs. to do them justice. It was finally agreed that Congs. shd. remain till the usual hour of adjournment, but without taking any step in relation to the alledged grievances of the Soldiers, or any other business whatever. In the mean time the Soldiers remained in their position, without offering any violence, individuals only occasionally uttering offensive words and wantonly pointing their muskets to the Windows of the Hall of Congress. No danger from premeditated violence was apprehended, But it was observed that spirituous drink from the tipling houses adjoining began to be liberally served out to the Soldiers, & might lead to hasty excesses. None were committed however, and about 3 oC. the usual hour, Congs. adjourned; the Soldiers, tho’ in some instances offering a mock obstruction, permitting the members to pass thro’ their ranks. They soon after retired themselves to the Barracks.
In the Evening Congress re-assembled and passed the Resolutions on the Journal, authorizing a Committee to confer anew with the Executive of the State and in case no satisfactory grounds shd. appear for expecting prompt & adequate exertions for suppressing the mutiny & supporting the public authority, authorizing the President with the advice of the Committee, to summon the members to meet at Trenton or Princeton in New Jersey.
The Conference with the Executive produced nothing but a repetition of doubts concerning the disposition of the militia to act, unless some actual outrage were offered to persons or property. It was even doubted whether a repetition of the insult to Congress would be a sufficient provocation.
During the deliberations of the Executive, and the suspense of the Committee, Reports from the Barracks were in constant vibration. At one moment the Mutineers were penitent & preparing submissions: The next they were meditating more violent measures. Sometimes the Bank was their object; then the seizure of the members of Congress with whom they imagined an indemnity for their offence might be stipulated. On Tuesday about 2 OClock the efforts of the State authority being despaired of, & the Reports from the Barracks being unfavorable, the Committee advised the President to summon Congress to meet at Princeton which he did verbally as to the members present, leaving behind him a general Proclamation for the Press.
After the departure of Congs. the Mutineers submitted, and most of them accepted furloughs under the Resolution of Congress, on that subject. At the time of submission they betrayed their leaders. the chief of whom proved to be a Mr. Carberry a deranged officer, and a Mr. Sullivan a lieutenant of Horse; both of whom made their escape. Some of the most active of the Sergeants also ran off.