Title: Virginia Delegates to Benjamin Harrison, 5 November 1782
From: Virginia Delegates
To: Harrison, Benjamin

S’r,
Philadelphia Novr. 5th 1782.
We have been honord with your Excell’ys of the 26th of Octr. by this post. Congress have been informed by the Comm’r in Chief that the Army are gone into Winter Cantonments, the main body Hutting in the Vicinage of New Burgh on the North River (where head Quarters are fixd for the Winter;) by the same letter we are informed that 14 British ships of the Line, one 40 and Seven frigates with fourteen transports Saild on the 26th Ulto. from N: York (supposed for the W. Indies no mention is made of any troops being embarqued with them) and also that on the arrival of the last Packet two Vessels were Immediately dispatched to Chas. Town; of the evacuation of which place we have yet received no Authentic intelligen[ce] and indeed it remains a doubt (rather increased by the dispatching the two Vessels above mentioned) whether this measure will take place, Since the late Change in the Ministry. We are told by a letter from Mr. Carmichael that the firmness of the Answers of the States to the Overtures of the British Court (through S’r Guy Careleton and admiral Digby) has had a very good effect, and has even met with the personal applause of the King of Spain, and that the Opinion of the foreign Ministers at that Court is that the Wisest thing Great Britain can do is to Conclude a treaty acknowledging the Independence of America. It is also said the Imperial and Russian Ministers have recd. fresh orders to offer the mediation of those two Courts, but this is unconfirmed Conjecture. We do ourselves the Honor to Enclose for Yr. Excell’y the Vote of Congress for accepting the Cession of N. York. Elias Boudinot Esqr. of N Jersey was Yesterday elected our President for the Ensuing year. we have the honor to be with perfect Esteem Yr. Excelly’s most obedt. Se’ts,
J. Madison Jr.Theo’k Bland Jr.


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 5 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

My dear Sir
Philada. Novr. 5th 1782
My last informed you that a proposition had been made in Congress for accepting the territorial Cession of N. York. The paper inclosed contains the proceedings which ensued. The acceptance of this Cession singly met with a negative from Virginia for obvious reasons. In the first place such a measure, instead of terminating all controversy as to the western Country, the object proposed by the original plan, introduces new perplexities. And in the 2d. place, an assent from us might be here after pleaded as a voluntary acceptance of the U. States in the room of N. York, as litigants against Virginia.
On the subsequent motion you will find Virga. divided. The proviso expressed in this motion if referred to the territory retained by N. York appeared to me to be at least nugatory, or rather to imply that a Resolution of Congress might operate towards depriving another States of the benefits of the Confederation; and if referred to the territory ceded by N. Y. to imply that the 9th art: was the constitutional rule of deciding controversies as well where the U. S. as where a particular state were the party. All that Congress could, as I supposed, have properly done, would have been to guard against any biass on future decisions by declaring that their acceptance of the Cession of N. Y. was not to be considered as expressing any opinion as to the rightful claims or limits of that State. But I did not feel myself at liberty to substitute such a proposition because it militated against the guaranty required by Virga. and would have prejudged that condition of her Cession.
The success of the the middle states in obtaining the Cession of N. Y. has given great encouragement; and they are pursuing steadily the means of availing themselves of the other titles. That of Connecticut is proposed for the next object. Virginia will be postponed for the last. By inlisting the two preceding into their party they hope to render their measures more effectual with respect to the last
Besides the effect which may be expected from this coalition with New York on territorial questions in Congress it will I surmise prove very unfriendly to the pretentions of Vermont Duane seems not unapprized of the advantage which New York has gained and is already takeing measures for a speedy vote on that question Upon the whole New York has either by a fortunate coincidence of circumstances, or by skilful management or by both succeeded in a very important object: by ceding a claim which was tenable neither by force nor by law she has acquired with Congress the merit of liberality[,] rendered the title to her reservation more respectable and at least dampt the zeal with which Vermont has been abetted If you should be surprized that these considerations did not dissuade Connecticut from an unqualified acceptance of the cession of New York you will only be affected as others were at the time. The truth is, they were surprized at it them selfs after it was too late and would gladly have revoked their error
You were also informed in my last of the situation in wch. the affair of Lippencut remained. In the midst of our perplexities a letter arrived from Gel. Washington inclosing an intercession from the Count de Vergennes in favor of the life of young Asgill, founded on a most pathetic and importunate Memorial from his Mother. The Ct. writes to Gel. Washington, as he says not in the quality of a public Minister, but of a man who feels the force of Mrs. Asgill’s supplications. He backs his intercession however, with the desire of the King & Queen who were much affected with the Memorial, observes that, altho’ Asgill is no doubt a prisoner to the U: States, yet as he became such by an event to which the arms of his Majesty contributed, the interest he takes in behalf of this officer, is the more admissible, & signifies that if the British Commander should not in this instance fully comply with the demands of Justice there is reason to believe that future instances of barbarity will be prevented.
The judgment formed of this intercession by different members is very different. All indeed agree that retaliation cannot be executed in the face of it. But some are of opinion that it luckily affords and ought to be made the ground of retreat from that measure; while others suppose that our honour will be more wounded by such a public mark both of our obsequiousness to France and of her disapprobation of our views than by a retreat of ourselfs on the ground of Carlton’s promise to continue his pursuit of the murderer. Some think also that an omission in our act of the wish expressed on the part of the King & Queen of France may give umbrage. Others again infer from the circumstances of the letter from the Count being addressed to General Washington not to Congress and in his pri[vate] not official quality that a public notice of it cannot be expected and that a private explanation by the secretary of foreign affairs to the Minister of France will be as much as will be proper
The Minister also received an instruction to interest himself in the affair and had even prepared a memorial to Congress relative to it Having discovered however the diversity of sentiments prevailing in Congress and being apprehensive that his interposition might render the case more perplexing and possibly be not treated with due notice in the final act of Congress[,] he has very prudently desisted from his purpose
Untill Congress shall have come to some decision with respect to the notice to be taken of the intercession above mentioned I would not wish it to be generally spoken of from this letter.
Yesterday being the 1st. Monday in Novr. The vacant chair was filled by Mr. Boudinot. The distribution of the votes was as follows, for Mr. B. New Hampshire Rhode Island Connecticut New Jersey Pensylvania Delaware Maryland[;] for Mr. Bland Virginia South Carolina[;] for Mr. Rutlidge N. C.[;] for Mr. Nash New York Massachusetts had no Delegate present but Mr. Osgood. Georgia was wholly unrepresented. As you were present at the last election I need not recite to you the motives to the one in question.
A letter from Carmichael dated 8 July, says that the Resolutions of Congress & the States against separate negociations with the new British Ministry were exceedingly applauded at the Spanish Court; and that he had discovered that the Imperial & Russian Ministers had renewed an offer of the Mediation of their Courts to Spain. The silence of our other Ministers in letters of later date renders the latter article very doubtful.
A letter of the 5th. of Sepr. from Mr. Laurens at Nantz repeats his purpose to return to America; adding that the risk of capture & the advice of his friends had led him to apply to the Court of London for a passport via Falmouth & N. York, to Philada. that Ld. Cornwallis had interested himself in his case, and that the passport was to be transmitted to him. It was uncertai[n] whether he was to embark [this?] fall, or wait till the spring. Unless the embarkation from a British port was more necessary than I am aware a direct passport from France would in my view have been more eligible
The army we are informed by a letter from Gel Washington of the 30th. Ult. are going into their winter cantonments. Part of the British fleet, consisting of 14 Ships of the line, 1 of 40 guns, 7 frigates & 14 transports sailed from N. York on the 26th. supposed to be bound to the W. Indies, and to have no troops [on] board. Two vessels were despatched it is said for Charlestown immediately after the arrival of the last packet, for the purpose of countermanding the evacuation.
Mr. Jones has recovered rapidly within a few days past & has once more got about.
Your favor of the 26th past was duly received yesterday. I am anxious for the new Cypher which it promises as well for my own use as yours; and for the same reasons. I conclude from your silence as to my late communications in L——ls Cypher that the key I sent you some time ago answered its purpose.


Title: Notes on Debates, 8 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

Friday Novr. 8.
The preceeding question having been taken again, on a further discussion of the subject. There were in favor of the demand, N. H. R. I. N. Y. Pa. Del: Maryd. Virga. & of the other States some were divided.
A motion was made by Mr. Rutledge of S. C.
“That the Comder in chief & of the S. Department be respectively directed whenever the Enemy shall commit any act of cruelty or violence contrary to the laws & usage of war on the Citizens of these States to demand adequate satisfaction for the same, and in case such satisfaction shall not be immediately given, but refused or evaded under any pretext whatsoever, to cause suitable retaliation to be for[th]with made on British officers without waiting for directions from Congress on the subject.”
When this motion was first made it was espoused by many; with great warmth in particular by the Delegates of N. C. & S. C. as necessary to prevent the delays & uncertainties incident to a resort by the Military Commanders to Congress, and to convince the Enemy that notwithstanding the dismission of Capt: Asgill the general purpose of retaliation was firmly retained.
Against the motion it was objected 1. that the time & place in which it stood would certainly convey an indirect reprehension of Gel. Washington for bringing before Congress the case of Capt: Asgill & Huddy: 2. that it manifested a distrust in Congress, which however well founded i[t] might be with respect to retaliation ought not to be proclaimed by themselves. 3. that political & national considerations might render the interference of the supreme authority expedient, of wch. the letter from Ct. de Vergennes in the late case furnished an instance: that the resort of the Military Commanders to the Sovereign for direction in great and difficult cases, such as those of retaliation would often prove, was a right of which they ought not to be deprived; but in the exercise of which they ought rather to be countenanced. These objections reduced the patrons of the motion to the Delegates of N. C. & S C alone or nearly so. In place of it the declaratory motion on the Journals was substituted. This again was objected to as implying that in the cases of retaliation taken up by the Mily: commanders they had proceeded on doubtful authority To remove this objection, the amendment was proposed, limiting the preamble to the single act of discharging Capt: Asgill. This however was not entirely satisfactory because that particular act could have no constructive influence on the reputed authority of the Generals. It was acceded to by the votes of several who were apprehensive that in case of rejecting it, the earnestness of some might obtrude a substitute less harmless or that the Resolution might pass without the preamble & be more offensive to the Commander in chief. The first apprehension was the prevailing motive with many to agree to the proposition on the final question.
This day a letter was rcd. from Gel Washington inclosing one of the 25 of Ocr. from Sr. G. Carlton relative to the demand made on him for a liquidation of accts. and payment of the balance due for maintenance of Prisoners of war; in which the latter used an asperity of language so much the reverse of his preceding correspondence that many regard it as portending a revival of the war against the U S.


Title: Benjamin Harrison to Virginia Delegates, 8 November 1782
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Virginia Delegates

Gentlemen
Richmond Novem: 8th: 1782.
Your favor of the 29th: Ulto: reached me yesterday. If the reports from Canada and New York are true, the English are certainly become the most faithless Nation on Earth, and mean by fraud and deceit to accomplish what they could not do by force. how far their Plan will succeed I can not say tho’ I fear it will give them an advantage in So: Carolina over our worthy General that they could not have obtain’d by any other Means. I enclose you a Letter from Gen: Greene in behalf of Capt. Pearce who thinks he has a right by Services to be promoted to a Majority in our Artilery Regiment notwithstanding it has a Major in being; what your regulations have been in such Cases I am to learn. if you have ever done it there is as much Justice in the present Instance as there can be in any, Major Holmer being totally unfit for Service and willing to retire on half-pay. I shall go no farther into the subject as the above letter and one from Colo. Carrington which I also enclose are very full. I beg the favor of you to introduce this Matter to Congress and use your Interest to have the Generals request comply’d with, and to send me the determination as soon as possible, and to return the Letters if the request should not be granted, that I may lay them before our Assembly, which I hope will have Members enough to go on Business to day.
Our recruiting Business goes on but slowly and will continue to do so if our Soldiers are not clothed. I have no official Information of their wants, but I have private ones without Number that they are in the most wretched naked Condition that ever Men were. I entreat you to interest yourselves warmly in their behalf, all the Southern States are concern’d in it, for unless the wants of our Men are more attended to than they have been no army ever can be raised in them. The great scarcity of cash in this Country will I expect put it out of our power to comply with the demands of Congress unless the financier will agree to take Tobacco in Payment which I suppose he may dispose of to the Philedelphia Merchants. I beg you to sound him on this subject. The prises we now sell at you have enclosed but as Commission’s &ca. will be saved perhaps some deduction may be made if he does not altogether determine against the Mode of Payment.
I am &c. &c.
B. H.


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Randolph, 8 November 1782
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Madison, James

My dear sir
Richmond Nov: 8. 1782.
The house of delegates was within two members to day of a sufficient number to proceed to business.
Among the reformations, suggested in my last letter but one, the foremost will probably be some attack on those debtors to british subjects, who have lodged depreciated money in the treasury for the discharge of their british debts. But In what form it will be made, I cannot easily discover; since these deposits in the public coffers were sanctified by an act of the legislature. Perhaps the only successful one will be, to use these payments, as arguments of a mind, not strongly fortified by ideas of propriety and justice.
I have my suspicions, that attempts are in agitation to shake the seat of the g——v——r. The period of reelection is at hand. He, I am informed, has commuted his british debts in the mode, warranted by the law. Insinuations from this source may serve as a preface to some accusation more direct. For the term “impeachment” is truly familiar with us at present, and the council are said to be marked out as victims, in order to cover perhaps the question of his conduct.
I begin to believe, that Mr. Henry will not come to this session: and Mr. Jefferson is irrevocable in his repugnance to do so; altho’ the house have sent for him, and he is now within six miles of the town. The cause of his being thus near is his attendance on his children, whilst under inoculation. I draw from this circumstance, an opinion, that he is fitting them for an European climate. Whether my conjecture be right or not, I shall certainly soon endeavour to know from himself, and inform you of the result of inquiry.

The judges of the court of appeals avoided a determination, whether a law, opposing the constitution, may be declared void, in their decision of Saturday last. You will recollect the point to which I allude. There surely was prudence in the path, which they took. But I doubt not, that to any but lawyers the construction, by which the two were reconcile[d,] would appear unintelligible. As soon as I have state[d] the case in full, you shall receive a copy.
I will now enable you, as far as I can, to furnish the American Calendar with the officers of general jurisdiction. If I offend in ranking them, I offen[d] thro’ ignorance of etiquette.
Governor. His excellency Benjamin Harrison

Council
{
The honble

Samuel Hardy

Sampson Matthews
}

Beverly Randolph

Thomas Lomax

{
James Monro

Meriwether Smith and

Robert Lawson

N.B.   there is a vacancy in the council by the resignation of t[he] honble John Banister.
You must class the delegates to congress yourself. I know not where to place them.
Speaker of the senate: The honble Archibald Cary.
Speaker of the house of delegates. The honble John Tyler.
Judges of the high court of Chancery
The honble
Edmund Pendleton
George Wythe and
John Blair.
Judges of the general court.
The honble
Paul Carrington
Bartholomew Dandridge
Peter Lyons
William Fleming and
James Mercer.

Judges of the admiralty
The honble
Benjamin Waller
Richard Cary and
James Henry.
N. B.   These Judges together compose the dernier judiciary resort.
If Mr. Ambler’s office of treasurer, and mine of A. G. come within the scheme, you can add them.
I have at last received a letter from Colo. Geo: Mason protesting against an Union with the committee on western territory in the character of a member; altho’ he is ready to contribute his aid privately.


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 10 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

Dear Sir
Philada. Novr. 10th. 1782.
I put under this cover the Newspaper of saturday last, and a poetical production of N. England which has much applause bestowed on it.
We have recd. no intelligence from Europe since my last. I have inclosed to the Govr. a copy of a late letter from Carlton which breathes a much less conciliating spirit than his preceding correspondence. No steps have been taken by Congress as to the Cessions since the acceptance of that of N. York. Asgill is directed to be set at liberty, without any special reason being assigned for it, and Gl Washington instructed to call upon Gl Carlton to fulfil his promise to pursue the guilty. If the interval between this & the post produces any thing, you shall then have it
farewell
J. M.


Title: Motion to Renew Thomas Jefferson’s Appointment as Peace Commissioner, [12 November] 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

[12 November 1782]
That the appointment of Thomas Jefferson Esqr. as a Minister Plenipotentiary for negociating peace, made on the  day of  be and the same is hereby renewed; and that on his acceptance thereof he be invested with all the powers and be subject to all the instructions which have been, or may be issued by Congress, to the Ministers Plenipo: for negociating peace, in the same manner as if his original appointment had taken effect.


Title: Notes on Debates, 12 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

Teusday 12 Novr.
The reappointment of Mr. Jefferson as Minister Plenipo: for negociating peace was agreed to unanimously and without a single adverse remark. The act took place in consequence of its being suggested that the death of Mrs. J. had probably changed the sentiments of Mr. J. with regard to public life, & that all the reasons which led to his original appointment still existed and indeed had acquired additional force from the improbability that Mr. Laurens would actually assist in the negociation.
“A motion was made by Mr. Rutlidge declaring that when a matter was referred to any of the departments to take order, it was the sense & meaning of Congress that the same should be carried into execution.” On this motion some argued that such reference amounted to an absolute injunction. Others insisted that it gave authority, but did not absolutely exclude discretion in the Executive Departments. The explanation which was finally acquiesced in as most rational & conformable to practice, was that it not only gave authority, but expressed the sense of Congress that the measure ought to be executed; leaving it so far however in the discretion of the Executive Department, as that in case it differeed in opinion from Congress it might suspend execution & state the objections to Congress that their final direction might be given. In the course of debate it was observed by Mr. Madison that the practice of referring matters to take order, especially where money was to be issued, was extremely exceptionable inasmuch as no entry of such proceedings was made on the Journals, but only noted in a Memorandum book kept by the Secretary, and then sent to the Department with the reference to take order indorsed by the Secy. but not signed by him. So that the transaction even where public in its nature, never came before the public eye, & the Dept. was left with a precarious voucher for its justification. The motion was in the end withdrawn, the mover alledging that as he only aimed at rendering an uncertain point clear, & this had been brought about by a satisfactory explanation, he did not wish for any Resolution on the subject.


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 12 November 1782 (second)
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

In Congress Novr. 12. 1782
Resolved
That the appointment of T. Jefferson Esqr. as a Minist: for Nego: peace made on the  day  be & the same is hereby renewed: & that on his acceptance thereof he be invested with all the powers & subject to all the instructions which have been or may be issued by Congress to the Mints Plenip[o:] for nego: peace, in the same manner as if his original appt. had taken effect.
This Resolution passed a few minutes ago I write you a line for the post but I fear too late This catches Doctr. Tucker in the Street proceeding by the State House. You will let it be known to Mr. J. as quickly as secrecy will admit. An official notification will follow by the first oppy. This will prepare him for it. It passed unan: & witht. a single remark adverse to it. On this subjt. again by the post next week or by Col: B. if earlier.
Adieu.
J. M.


Title: Notes on Debates, 14 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

Thursday. 14 Novr.
The proceedings were confined to the report of the Committee on the case of Vermont entered on the Journal. As it was notorious that Vermont had uniformly disregarded the Recommendation of Congress of 1779, the report which ascribed the evils prevalent in that district to a late act of N. Y. which violated that recommendation was generally admitted to be unjust & unfair. Mr. Howel was the only member who openly supported it. The Delegates from N. Y. denied the fact that any violation had been committed on the part of that State. The temper of Congress on this occasion as the yeas & nays shew was less favorable to Vermont than on any preceding one. the effect probably of the territorial Cession of N. York to the U. S. In the course of the debate Mr. Howel cited the case of Kentucky as somewhat parallel to that of Vermont, said that the late erection of a separate Court by Virga. for the former resembled the issuing of Commissions by N. Y. to the latter, that the jurisdiction would probably be equally resisted & the same violences would follow as in Vermont. He was called to order by Mr. Madison. The President & the plurality of Congress supported & enforced the call.


Title: From James Madison to Benjamin Harrison, 15 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To: Harrison, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Philada. Novr. 15th.
I send you as a peice of information of which you will be the best judge of the use to be made, an extract of a letter laid before Congress by the Secy. at War:
Extract of a letter from Gl Irvine to the
Secy. at War dated, Fort Pitt Ocr. 28. 1782
“Short as the time is since the accounts came into this Country that the Savages were to be called in & restrained by the British, the people are in great numbers flocking over the Ohio into what has hitherto been called the Indian Country & are busy in taking up & improving lands as well on what is supposed to be within the bounds of Penna. as beyond the Western line thereof. From the avidity with which they act on this occasion & the industry used by some few to persuade the people to form new States, I am of opinion that unless Congress & the several States, (who have unsettled lands within their limits) immediately take measures for securing them neither the U. S. nor any particular State will reap much advantage from them. Notwithstanding I may be mistaken in this opinion yet I think it my duty to mention the matter. if you think it worthy the attention of Congress, you will doubtless inform them. I will write the Council of Penna. on this subject, as I have reason to think they hope to pay much debt with the lands west of the Ohio”
To this I may add a report that the inhabitants of this State West of the Alleghany Mountains are openly proceeding towards a separation of Govt. It is certain that they have for some time had such a scheme in contemplation.
I have the honr. &c.
J Madison


Title: Benjamin Harrison to Virginia Delegates, 16 November 1782
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Virginia Delegates

Gentlemen
In Council 16th. Novem: 1782.
I have your favor by the last post, and think with you that it is problematical whether the British quit Charles Town or not, tho’ on the 25th. of last Month they had made such advances towards it that hopes are to be entertain’d of their being embarked before the countermanding orders arrive. If this should be the case, & they still entertain hopes of conquest in America may they not call on us, if they should, we were never less prepared, some demon or other certainly possessed us when we disposed of the ships that were prepared to bring over the arms & ammunition from France, both which are now so much wanted that if you do not think it improper you will do your Country a great Service by again pressing the Chevilier to use his Interest to have them brought over in a Frigate. The Scarcity of musket powder is so great in the State owing to our losses by the Enemy, and the necessary consumption of it during the Invasion that an immediate supply is absolutely necessary, and as we have no means of obtaining it but thro’ Congress I request that you use your Endeavours to procure from them three or four Tuns, that they owe us so much is beyond a doubt, but if you can not obtain it in return for what we have expended, rather than be disappointed I would take it on account till our demands can be adjusted. If you succeed please to send it on immediately in Waggons to Westham, which you know is not above six Miles from hence and is not much out of the way, the waggonage shall be certainly paid on their arrival. If you can’t procure it this way, perhaps it may be bought in the Town for Tobacco on Rappahannock or Powtamac rivers, to be paid on the delivery of the Powder, in which case you’l please to contract for it, and inform me immediately. the price we have fixed you have below, but if that can not be obtained, I know of no other Mode of doing Justice to the State & the Seller but by having it fixed by the agent for commutables here & a Merchant of reputation on either of those rivers chosen by the Seller. No business of consequence is yet done by the Assembly.
I am &c.
B. H.


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Randolph, [16] November 1782
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Madison, James

My dear sir
Richmond Novr. [16]. 1782.
The assembly have at last begun to move. From the constant impracticability of procuring a sufficient number of members to constitute a house for the first ten days of every session, it was proposed to reduce the majority, which alone can proceed to business, according to the present rules, to fifty. The favourers of the reduction were Mr. Jno. Mercer, its author, and Mr. R. H. Lee. Its opposers were, among many others, Mr. Thruston and Dr. Lee. The latter succeeded by arguments, drawn from the nature of government in general. When we inspect the state of parties, it seems astonishing, that there should be a division on this question, which might eventually influence the most important determinations, between those, whose measures in politics arise from similar opinions.
Colo. R. H. Lee has received a letter from Cleves dated, as well as I recollect, on the 29. of June; in which the restoration of Arnold to a public appearance at court is announced, as one of the productions of the new ministry. From this fact his correspondent infers, that the plan of devastation, which had originated from this parricide during the reign of North, and would have been executed, but for the change in the cabinet, is now revived. Alarmed by this intelligence, Dr. Lee moved for the appointment of a committee to devise a plan of national defence. To it were referred all the communications from the governor, and consequently most of the intelligence, upon which the operations of the legislature were to be commenced. But on the day succeeding this appointment, Mr. Wm. Ronald moved for discharging the committee; alledging, that by thus putting all the budget into the hands of a few members, the rest of the house were dependent on them for such parts of the public affairs, as they might choose to bring into discussion. Colo. Mercer called this committee an oligarchical junto: Mr. R. H. Lee vindicated it upon the experience of the inefficacy of a multitude to perform with accuracy or dispatch. But a very great majori[t]y voted for dissolving the committee.
A severe inspection is threatened, and indeed begun against the auditors. It has been declared in the house, that “an ugly ulcer is growing upon the body politic,” and that it springs from their office and conduct. To what this expression alludes in particular, I know not: but common report charges them with great delays as well as mistakes in posting their accounts. I suspect, that some misfeasance is imputed to them respecting the pensioners: since in the motion, which seems to be aimed at their heads, this class of people are required to be specified. Perhaps the extinction of their allowances is also intended; for they amount to a considerable sum. But nothing of this sort can be done with justice to those, who have been deprived of their limbs and bodily powers in the service of the country, without substituting some other form of relief
Colo. Mercer on thursday last made a series of motions, by which, he said, remedies would be provided for most of the evils of the state. The first, after complaining of injustice to public creditors and especially to the officers, attempts a cure by proposing in general terms the establishment of a circulating medium. Under this is couched the erection of a bank: but its constitution is yet unknown. He observed in the course of his argument, that a bank had formed the wilderness of Scotland into a paradise. This account will scarcely impose upon us, who know the condition of that country under Douglass’s bank even from reading, and will never be accredited by any Scotchman, who has migrated hither for bread. There is indeed another bank, which proves of great utility to young merchants and mechanics: but I fear, that the establishment of even such an one presupposes too much cash for Virginia, and, if established, would not answer public necessity.
The second animadverted on the delinquency of the members in attending the assembly at the time appointed. The scheme of remedy was not fully disclosed.
The third respected the stoppage of executions
Upon the two first[,] bills were ordered in: the last lies neglected, unless it was taken up yesterday.
A son of old Mr. Wormeley arrived at Hampton some time ago in a flag from Charlestown, with his lady, who, you remember, being a daughter of a suffering Whig there, was allured to attempt the conveyance of intelligence to Nine[ty] Six by a promise of the liberation of her father. Mr. W. has been here soliciting the restoration of his son to the rights of citizenship. But he has relinquished his endeavours on this head from the appearance of a firm resolution in the assembly, ne[ver?] to countenance a suspicion of a wish to reunite with G. B or her subjects.
General Morgan is here. His business, I have been told, is to urge the assembly to make better provision for discharging the arrears of the officers. He behaves with great propriety on the occasion; acknowledging, that the country cannot at present do complete justice, and desiring only those things, which seem to me to be within the power of the legislature.
Altho’ every month publishes to the world, that Virginia has paid nothing into the treasury of the U. S, I entertain very little hope of the remittance being greater. The taxes, now existing, being, in the first instance, to be appropriated to other uses, will not, I fear, leave the balance of a shilling, and the opinions of the leading men in the assembly protest against an increase of them.
I shall forward the cypher by a private hand in a day or two. My next letter will render it necessary.
Pray inform Colo. Bland, that Mr. Pollock did not deliver his favor of the 1st. inst: until it was too late to answer it. But I communicated its contents, so far as it respected money, to Mr. Banks, who has promised to comply with his request.
Mr. Jefferson has, I am told, lost the memorandums of his reply to the several questions of Mr. Marbois. Would it be possible to get a sight of them from that gentleman? I know there must be difficulty in effecting this, and therefore do not press it. But inform me, how the case stands.
Mr. Henry certainly will not attend this session. I have not as yet heard any public observations on the motion, of Mr. Williamson which was seconded by Colo. Bland, in consequence of the acceptance of the cession of New-York. But it strikes me, as being illjudged, and that you ought to be forever obstinate in your secession. The enemies of our territorial claims are persevering: and by the addition of a little precedent one day to another little one on another, they would soon be able to throw the opinion of Virginia herself into her own teeth.


Title: Virginia Delegates to Benjamin Harrison, 19 November 1782
From: Virginia Delegates
To: Harrison, Benjamin

Sir
Philada. Novr. 19th. 1782.
We had the honor yesterday of your Excellency’s letter of the 8th. inst. on the several subjects of which we must postpone an answer untill the next mail.
We are sorry to be obliged to repeat our inability to add any intelligence relative to the negociations for peace. Various reports prevail of the surrender of Gibralter, but they amount to nothing more than a small degree of probability. The investiture of Jamaica is also reported, but rests on still more slender testimony. There seems to be every proof of the evacuation of Charles-town short of an official report of it. Col: Bland set out on friday last for Richmond. To his information we beg leave to refer for a full state of all precedent circumstances.
We have the honor to be with great esteem Yr. Excelly’s obt. & hble servts.
Jos: JonesJ Madison Jr


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 19 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

My dear Sir.
Philada. Novr. 19th. 1782.
I find by your favor of the 8th. that your occupation with the Courts has continued to be a bar to the completion of the Cypher. It is very little missed however on my part as yet, the scantiness of intelligence being still unremoved. We have indeed reports without stint, but they are often most frequent when they have least foundation. Such of them as have the best title to notice, will be found in the newspapers. The proceedings of Congress for a week past have been equally unproductive of epistolary matter. For one half of the time we have failed in making a House, and the remaining half has been spent on minute objects.
Col: Bland set out on friday last. He carried with him an official notification to Mr. J——n of his reappointment. I wrote to the latter, informing him of an excellent passage if he could be ready for it in about a month, but urging a previous visit to this place as indispensable. Altho’ strictly speaking such a visit may not be essential, since the commission & instructions referred to in his appointment are at the place of his destination, yet, I wish him to be made sensible of the salutary information which may here be added to them. Col: Bland also carried to the Govr. an extract of a letter from Genl. Irwin at Fort Pitt, which displays in full colours the avidity of the Western people for the vacant lands & for separate Govts. On this subject Richmond I suppose will afford better information. I take for granted that every material article of it, with the steps taken by the legislature with respect to Western affairs in general, will fall within your correspondence.
The prospect derived from the impost of 5 PrCt. seems to be pretty thoroughly blasted by a unanimous & final veto by the Assembly of Rhode Island. This State by its Delegates (who fully represent the aversion of their Constituents to the impost) voted in Congress that 6 million of Dollars were necessary for the year 83. that 2 Million were as much as the States could raise & as ought to be required by Congress, and that applications for loans in Europe ought to be relied on for the residue. And yet they absolutely refuse the only fund which could be satisfactory to lenders. The indignation against this perverse sister is increased by her shameful delinquency in the constitutional requisitions.
The Tribunal erected for the controversy between Connecticut & Pennsa. was I hear to be opened to day. The Judges who compose it are Mr. Whipple of N. Hamshire, Mr. Arnold of Rhode Island, the cheif Justice & another gentlemn. of N. Jersey & Mr. C. Griffin of Virga. Mr. Rutledge, Mr. Jones & Genl Nelson have declined the service. On the part of Penna. appear Mr. Wilson Mr Reed, Mr. Bradford & Mr. Sergeant. Mr. Osburne assists in the capacity of Solicitor. On the part of Connecticut are deputed Mr. Dyer, Mr. Root, & Docr. Saml. Johnson. The first & the last I am told are on the spot. It is supposed that the first object of Cont. will be to adjourn the cause to a distant day on the plea that many of their essential documents are beyond the Atlantic. In a national view it is not perhaps advisable to invalidate the title of this State however defective it may be, untill a more important controversy is terminated. I will make the earliest communication of the issue of this trial. You will not forget a like promise which your letter makes with respect [to] the case lately decided by the Court of Appeals.
Mr. Jones ventured yesterday for the first time since his relapse, into Congress. The Representation of Virga. untill a reinforcement arrives will be precarious. Can you give me no encouragement on this occasion from your own purposes?


Title: Motion on Instruction to Robert Morris, [20 November] 1782
From: Madison, James
To: Morris, Robert

[20 November 1782]
That the Superintendent of Finance report to Congress the Causes that impede the Execution of the resolutions of  for settling the publick Accts. and what Progress has been made in the same


Title: Notes on Debates, 20 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

Wednesay Novr. 20th.
Congress went into consideration of the Report of A Committee consisting of Mr. Carrol, Mr. McKean & Mr. Howel on two Memorials from the Legislature of Pennsylvania. The Memorials imported a disposition to provide for the Creditors of the U. S. within the State of Pena. out of the Revenues allotted for Congress, unless such provision could be made by Congress. The Report as an answer to the Memorials acknowledged the merit of the public Creditors, professed the wishes of Congress to do them justice; referring at the same time to their recommendation of the Impost of 5 PerCt. which had not been acceded to by all the States; to the requisition of 1,200,000 Drs. for the payment of one years interest on the public debt, and to their acceptance of the territorial cession made by N. Y. After some general conversation in which the necessity of the Impost as the only fund on which loans could be expected & the necessity of loans to supply the enormous deficiency of taxes, were urged, as also the fatal tendency of the plan intimated in the Memorials, as well to the union itself, as to the system actually adopted by Congress, the Report was committed.
A motion was made by Mr. R——g——e, 2ded. by Mr. W——m——s——n to instruct the committee to report the best mode of liquidating the domestic debts, and of obtaining a valuation of the land within the several States, as the Article of Confederation directs. The first part of the instruction was negatived, provision having been previously made on that head. In place of it the Superintendt. of Finance was instructed to report the causes which impede that provision The 2d. part was with[d]rawn by the mover. A committee however was afterwards appointed, consisting of Mr. Rutlidge, Mr. Nash Mr. Duane Mr. Osgood & Mr. Madison, to report the best scheme for a valuation.


Title: Notes on Debates, 21 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

Thursday Novr. 21.
A report was made by a Committee to whom had been referred several previous reports & propositions, relative to the salaries of foreign Ministers, delivering it as the opinion of the Committee that the Salaries allowed to Ministers Plenipoy: to wit £2500 Sterlg. would not admit of reduction; but that the Saly. allowed to Secretaries to legations, to wit £1000 Sterlg. ought to be reduced to £500. This Committee consisted of Mr. Duane, Mr. Izard & Mr. Madison the last of whom disagreed to the opinion of his colleagues as to the reduction of the £25.00 allowed to Mrs. Plenipoy
Agst. a reduction it was argued that not only justice, but the dignity of the U. S. required a liberal allowance to foreign Servants; that gentlemen who had experienced the expence of living in Europe did not think that a less sum would be sufficient for a decent style; and that in the instance of Mr. A. Lee the expences claimed by him & allowed by Congress exceeded the fixed salary in question.
In favor of a reduction were urged the poverty of the U. S. the simplicity of Republican Governments, the inconsistency of splendid allowances to Ministers whose cheif duty lay in displaying the wants of their constituents and soliciting a supply of them: and above all, the policy of reconciling the army to the oeconomical arrangements imposed on them, by extending the reforms to every other Department:
The result of this discussion was a referance of the Report to another Committee consisting of Mr. Williamson, Mr. Osgood & Mr. Carroll
A motion was made by Mr. Howel 2ded. by Mr. Arnold, recommending to the several States, to settle with & satisfy at the charge of the U. S. all such temporary corps as had been raised by them respectively with the approbation of Congress. The repugnance which appeared in Congress to go into so extensive & important a measure at this time, led the mover to withdraw it.
A motion was made by Mr. Madison seconded by Mr. Jones, “That the Secy of F. Affairs be authorised to communicate to Forn: Ministers who may reside near Congress, all such articles of Intelligence recd. by Congress as he shall judge fit, & that he have like authority with respect to acts & Resolutions passed by Congress; reporting nevertheless the communications which in all such cases he shall have made.[”]
It was objected by some that such a Resolution was unnecessary, the Secy. being already possessed of the authority: it was contended by others that he ought previously to such communication to report his intention to do so; others again were of opinion that it was unnecessary to report at all.
The motion was suggested by casual information from the Secretary that he had not communicated to the French Minister the reappointment of Mr. Jefferson, no act of Congress having empowered or instructed him to do so.
The Motion was committed to Mr. Williamson Mr. Madison & Mr. Peters


Title: Motion on Exchange of Cornwallis, [22 November] 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

[22 November 1782]
That the Committee in the case of the exchange of Ld. Cornwallis be instructed to report a proper act for the ratification of the sd. exchange


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Randolph, 22 November 1782
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Madison, James

My dear sir
Richmond Nov: 22. 1782
The inclosed cypher, tho’ not nicely executed or arm[e]d with every possible combination, is, I trust, sufficiently involved to serve, as a secure seal to our correspondences. I send it by the post, as the transactions of this week require no cover.
Immediately on the receipt of your information that the appointment was renewed, I imparted it to our friend. I expect an answer to morrow, but not so soon, as that I should be enabled to say certainly by this post what his final resolution will be. But in addition to the circumstances leading me in a former letter to espouse the probability of his accepting this mission, another has lately occurred. While governor, he had subscribed several assumpsits to the creditors of government, and particularly to some of those of New Orleans, Illinois &c, who are now in your city. He understood that they had been advised to sue him in his individual capacity; Upon this intelligence he wrote to the assembly, representing his predicament, and that he wished to travel into some other parts of America. The result of this application is unknown and seems immaterial; since it abundantly shews, that Monticello, which formerly was the great magnet, has lost its power so far, as to leave him a disposition to travel.

Some progress has been made in reforming the militia law; the great object of which in its present form is to keep a select militia in readiness for invasions, and to prevent the useless expenditure of money, occasioned by the frequent reliefs which are practised under our prevailing system. The bill is to be reported to day.
Oeconomy is the cant phrase and the house of delegates have accordingly voted the reduction of the number of auditors to one. I am told, that some of the members are disposed to strike at the number of judges of the admiralty, of the council, &c. &c. But these amendments are the ebullitions of those, who know not the nature of the business of the several departments.
Tuesday is assigned for the consideration of Mr. Mercer’s plan of a tobacco-bank. I cannot procure a sight of it: but I fancy, it is built upon the doctrine of Stuart on the subject of banks founded on public credit. If so, that doctrine is surely misapplied to the now condition of our country. There does not appear the smallest prospect of its being carried.
A petition came from Louisa to continue, among other things the suspension of executions. On the question for referring it, the number pro was 42, against it 33. Mr. R. H. Lee was animated and spoke well against the reference, as lawyers, intent on profit, would think; but, as others less ardent in the pursuit of riches would perhaps say, much to the injury of our country, which has suffered so deeply from the enemy.
There is a strong party, and I believe it will prove successful, for exploding the consumption of british manufactures without waiting for similar acts of reprobation in the other states. Abuses have been lately multiplied in the introduction of these baneful commodities, some having been imported in flags, others from St. Thomas’s, covered with very slight, and indeed unauthentic certificates of previous captures. I shall shortly go to Edenton in No. Carolina to defend a vessel which has brought british wares from that island: but I am resolved to return infectâ re, if there be any suspicion of their coming thither unsanctified by capture.
As to my return, I know not what to say. I feel most sorely at this moment the wounds of Haym Salomon, and divers other jews of our connection in Philadelphia, and I clearly see, that my absence from home would throw me most terribly in the rear of the law. But these circumstances would not of themselves detain me, provided I could make a reasonable composition with the creditors of my father, who has his life in my uncle’s estate upon the death of my aunt. That event approaches rapidly, and this matter will be quickly afterwards determined. But I shall probably be obliged to remain here for some time in preparing the vindication of our title to the western country— and this too, from the reappointment of Mr. J., on whose shoulders I wished to throw the penmanship of the work. To keep my name up therefore, when I must be necessarily absent, would be an obstacle to the reinforcement of a better man.
Last night Mr. Jas. Henry’s son desired me to forward £22–10. to Mr. Jones, on account of an advance made by him in Phila. in 1780. The money is deposited in the treasury, and I will remit it by the next post. I should have done it, could I have procured a bill.
I say nothing to you about money, as Mr. Ambler says he is punctual in every possible remittance.
I duly received your two favors of Nov. 13th. Mr. Pendleton left us almost a week ago. I forgot to mention that there are several blanks in the cypher, reserved for you to fill up, if you think proper.


Title: Timothy Pickering to Virginia Delegates, 23 November 1782
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Virginia Delegates

Gentn.,
Philadelphia Nov. 23d: 1782
The Bearer with his family are just arrived from newburgh, to which place they came from Canada where they have been Prisoners about two years. Just before I left New Burgh, I received notice from the Comr. in Chief that about One hundred and seventy such prisoners, chiefly Women and Children, were on their way from Canada, and might shortly be expected at New Burgh, from whence he desired me to give them such aid in transporting them: and their baggage hither, as I should have in my power. Eleven persons, including the bearer and his family, have arived here this morning, and most of the others may be shortly expected. They were chiefly carried from Kentucky, and will probably wish to return thither, or at least to proceed to Virginia. I have therefore advised the Bearer to present himself to you for such assistance and direction as his distressed condition appears to demand.
The numbers alike distressed being so considerable, and as they chiefly belong to Virginia, I beg leave to suggest to you the expediency of proposing some order of Congress in the case, authorizing such assistance to be given these unhappy people as humanity requires & their necessaties render indispensable. Until some order be taken concerning them, I have thought it my duty (conforming to the views of the General) to have them lodged in the Barracks and supplied with fuel & provisions; & have given directions accordingly.
I have the honor to be &c
Tim. Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: Notes on Debates, 25 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

Monday Novr 25.
A letter from the Lt. Govr. of R. I. was read containing evidence that some of the leaders in Vermt., and particularly Luke Nolton who had been deputed in the year 1780 to Congress as Agent for that party opposed to its independence but who had since changed sides, had been intriguing with the enemy in N. Y. The letter was Committed. See Nov. 27
The consideration of the motion for ratifying the discharge of Cornwallis was resumed. Mr. Williamson renewed his motion which failed. Mr. McKean suggested the expedient of ratifying the discharge, on condition that a General Cartel should be acceded to. This was relished at first by several members, but a developement of its inefficacy and inconsistency with national dignity stifled it.
A motion was made by Mr. Rutledge 2ded. by Mr. Ramsay. that the discharge should be ratified in case Mr. L. should undertake the office of Commissioner for peace. This proposition was generally considered as of a very extraordinary nature, and after a brief discussion withdrawn
In the course of these several propositions most of the arguments stated on friday last were repeated. Col: Hamilton who warmly & cogently espoused the ratification, as an additional argument mentioned, that some intimations had been given by Col: Lauren of the Army with the privity of Genl. Washington to Cornwallis previous to his capitulation, that he might be exchanged for his father, then in the Tower.
The Rept. of the Committee on Mr. Ms motion on the 21 inst: relative to Secy. of F. Affairs, passed without opposition.


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Pendleton, 25 November 1782
From: Pendleton, Edmund
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Virginia, Nov 25th 1782
I have yr favr of the 12th & am very sorry you did not discover the forgery in the note sent, before you had purchased the Lace, that you might not have incurr’d the advance, a circumstance I wish’d by all means to avoid, & am the more concern’d at, as I don’t know how I can hand you the money, until one of yr Colleagues shall set out for Philada., and that I may not be acquainted with & so miss the opportunity; I can only promise to embrace the first that offers, and that I will not make a future request of the sort. The Lace pleased my friend well & you have his & my thanks for your trouble in procuring it.
The Impeachment of the Governor, talked of the first of the Session, at Richmond, died away, & he is reelected without opposition; young Mr Marshall is elected a Counsellor in the room of Mr Bannister who resigned: he is clever, but I think too young for that department, which he should rather have earned as a retirement & reward by 10 or 12 years hard service in the Assembly.
I am told they are adopting an Oeconomical System. The War Office, Quarter Master &c. which at the expense of about £12,000 a year, have had the direction during this of about 120 State Troops, are to be laid aside, and that business thrown upon the Governor & Council. 2 Auditors to be cashier’d, & that board reduced to one. and one Judge to constitute the Court of Admiralty instead of 3. Thus far I am told is resolved, but whether these may live thro’ their forms of proceeding, or how much further they may carry the reform, I know not; nor do I hear what is to become of the Bank scheme intended to be brought forth.
I am told Colo Baylor is just come here from Green’s camp & says Charles Town was not evacuated when he left the Camp, so that I suppose the counter Orders had reached the Garrison in time & they mean to hold it yet a little longer.
We have a strange story circulating here & said to come from some sailors, that Gibralter is taken, but that in a Naval conflict between Ld How & the Combined Fleets of our friends, the latter had lost 11 ships & the former three; there is nothing in the manner of its coming to me that even Squints at Authenticity. You have probably by this time something decisive on these Subjects—events wch may determine Peace or War; may it produce the latter.
If Sir Guy Carleton did not consult his Master’s pleasure or the emoluments of office, more than his own Honour, he would disdain to continue a moment in a department in which he has been so degraded as to be authorized to communicate that as done, which now appears not to have been intended, and which must render his future correspondence wth Us awkward & unworthy of the least regard; but such is the consequence of banishing moral Rectitude from Courts, & adopting finesse & Intrigue, other words for lying & deceit, in its stead.
I find I am moralizing, which they say is but a step from growing dul and therefore will only add my complts to Mr Jones & his Lady & that I am wth unfeign’d regard,
Dr Sir Yr very Affe friend
Edmd Pendleton
I have this moment reced Mc Fingal from you & The Case of the Episcopal Church from Mr Jones—thrice thanks to both.


Title: Notes on Debates, 26 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

Teusday Novr. 26.
No Congress but a Grand Committee composed of a member from each State.
The States of N. H. & Masts. having redeemed more than their quotas of the Emissions prior to the 18th. of March 1780, had called on Congress to be credited for the surplus, on which the Superintendt of Finance reported that they ought to be credited at the rate of 1 Dollar specie for 40 of the sd. Emission, according to the act of March aforesaid. This report being judged by Congress unjust as the money had been called in by those States at a greater depreciation, was disagreed to. Whereupon a Motion was made by Mr. Osgood, that the States who had redeemed a surplus should be credited for the same according to its current value at the time of  This motion with a letter afterwards rcd. from the State of Mass: on the same subject, were referred to the grand committee in question.
The Committee were unanimous that Justice required an allowance to the States who sd. sink a surplus, to be apportioned on the deficient States: The different expedients suggested were
1. That Congress sd. renew their call on the States to execute the Acts of the 18th of M. 1780 and leave it to the states to level the money by negociations among themselves. This was Mr. Hamilton’s idea. The objections against it were that either nothing wd. be done in the case or the deficient States wd. be at the mercy of the hoarding States; altho’ the former were perhaps prevented from doing their part by invasions; & the prosperity of the latter enabled them to absorb an undue proportion
By Mr. Madison It was proposed that Congress should declare that when ever it sd. appear that the whole of the bills emitted prior to the 18th. of M. 1780 shall have been collected into the Treasuries of the several States, Congress wd. proceed to give such credit for any surplus above the quotas assigned as equity might require, and debit the deficient States accordingly. In favor of this expedient it was supposed that it would give a general encouragement to the States to draw the money outstanding among individuals into the public treasuries, and render a future equitable arrangemt. by Congress easy. The objections were that it gave no satisfaction immediately to the complaining States, & would prolong the internal embarrassments which have hindered the States from a due compliance with the requisitions of Congress.
It was lastly proposed by Mr. Fitzimmons that the Commissioners appointed to traverse the U. S. for the purpose of settling accounts should be empowered to take up all the outstanding old money and issue certificates in place of it, in specie value according to a rule to be given them by Congress. The amount of the certificates to be apportioned on the States as part of the public debt. The same rule to determine the credit for redemptions by the States. This proposition was on the whole generally thought by the Committee least objectionable and was referred to a sub committee composed of Mr. Rutlidge, Mr. Fitzimmons & Mr. Hamilton to be matured & laid before the Grd. Come. One consideration suggested by Mr. Hamilton in its favor was that it would multiply the advocates for federal funds for discharging the public debts, and tend to cement the Union.


Title: Virginia Delegates to Benjamin Harrison, 26 November 1782
From: Virginia Delegates
To: Harrison, Benjamin

Sir
Philada. Novr. 26th. 1782
In answer to your Excellency’s letter of the 8th. as far as it relates to Capt: Pierce, we inclose the late Acts of Congress making further reductions in the army, with the remarks of the Secy at War on the operation of those acts in the case of that officer. In the latter will also be found such information as the War office affords on the subject of cloathing for the Virginia troops.
In pursuance of your request we sounded the disposition of the Superintendt. of Finance as to an acceptance of Tobo. from Virginia at the current prices in place of cash. His reply was that his Agent in consequence of instructions from him had made a proposition to that very effect to the amount of 60,000 Dollars, which had been lying some time before the Executive unanswered.
A letter of the 19th. instant from Genl. Washington informs Congress that another account had been received at N. York of the evacuation of Charleston, the British part of the Garrison having proceeded to the West Indies, & the remaining part to Halifax; that the last division of the British fleet was about leaving N. York; that 25 transports from Qu[e]bec prepared before their sailing for the reception of troops, had arrived at that place, and that intelligence had come to him through two channels for which however he could not vouch, that an embarkation was actually on foot.
Among the captives lately discharged from Canada and now returning to their several homes are included we understand near 200 of men women and children, who belong to the Kentucky and other back settlements of Virginia. A few of them have already reached this place through the benevolent assistance of the Commander in cheif. On the application of the Secretary at War Congress have authorised such further assistance as will convey them to their own State. The letter from the Commander in cheif above referred to speaks of a number of captives from the same quarter being brought to N. York in the transports from Quebec, and the same account is given by those now here. If the case of the latter had not been taken up where it was, it would have necessarily devolved on the hands of the Delegates. But although we have escaped this perplexity, it is not improbable that those who may be sent out from N. York will be thrown upon us, in which case draughts on the Treasury will we foresee be unavoidable. To resort to the Treasury of the U. S. for a supply would probably be unsuccessfull, and would certainly lead to remarks which need not be pointed out to your Excellency. We take the liberty of mentioning these circumstances, as well that the Treasury may be apprised of the contingent demand upon it, as that we may know the will of the State in this and similar cases.
Your Excellency’s letter of the 16th. will be answered by the next mail.
We have the honor to be with sentiments of our respect Yr. Excelly’s obt. & hble servts
Jos: JonesJames Madison Jr.


Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 26 November 1782
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Ampthill in Chesterfeild Nov. 26. 1782.
Your favour by Colo Basset is not yet come to hand. the intimation through the Attorney I received the day before Colo. Bland’s arrival by whom I am honoured with your’s of the 14th. inst. it finds me at this place attending my family under inoculation. this will of course retard those arrangements of my domestic affairs which will of themselves take time and cannot be made but at home. I shall lose no time however in preparing for my departure; and from the calculation’s I am at present enabled to make I suppose I cannot be in Philadelphia before the 20th. of December, and that possibly it may be the last of that month. some days I must certainly pass there; as I could not propose to jump into the midst of a negotiation without a single article of previous information. from these data you will be enabled to judge of the chance of availing myself of his Excy. the Chev. de la Luzerne’s kind offer to whom I beg you to present my thanks for his friendly attention and to let him know I shall use my best endeavors to be in time for the departure of his frigate. no circumstance of a private nature could induce me to hasten over the several obstacles to my departure more unremittingly than the hope of having the Chevalr. de Chattlux as a companion in my voiage. a previous acquaintance with his worth & abilities had impressed me with an affection for him which under the then prospect of never seeing him again was perhaps imprudent.
I am with very sincere esteem Dr. Sir Your affectionate friend & humble servt.


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 26 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

My dear Friend
Philada. Novr. 26th. 1782
The Governor in his letter to the Delegates of the 8th. of the prest. month, after observing that the great scarcity of cash in Virga. will put it out of her power to comply with the demands of Congress, unless the Financier will accept Tobo. in payment, desires us to sound the latter on that subject. We accordingly called on Mr. Morris, and to our astonishment were told that a p[r]oposition to this very effect, and to the amount of sixty thousand dollars had been a considerable time lying before the executive[,] that his Agent had been instructed to allow the current price and that he wished to have obtained the tobacco because it could be immediately sent under a fortunate convoy to Holland where its influence on public credit might be critical and important. Either therefore Mr. M. must have been basely deceived by his agent which can hardly be supposed or the governor must in the first place have rejected a fair offer and in the next imposed on us a very nugatory and aukward negotiation As we concealed from the Superintendt. that our enquiries originated with the governor he escaped the risk to which he had exposed his character with that minister I cannot pass over this circumstance without a lamentation on the obloquy which Virginia brings on herself by submitting to be eclipsed by even the feeble efforts of other states The monthly lash of the Receiver’s proclamation, which has roused so many other states into some degree of emulation has produced no effect on her In our conversation with Mr. M. we were indeed told that Mr. Webb had a prospect of between two and three thousand dollars But if any thing can add to the mortification which we feel at the receipt of nothing it will be the receipt of so beggarly a sum I confide therefore that there is at least enough of pride in the state to prevent it
We are likely to have on our hands near 200 souls carried from Kentucky about 2 years ago into captivity in Canada, and lately discharged by the Governor of that Province. A part of them are already arrived. They are all in great distress and have been enabled to proceed this far only by the benevolent provisions of the Commander in cheif. Humanity will not suffer us to leave them unassisted with the means of reaching their homes, or at least their State. But whence are the means to be derived? To draw bills for a sufficient sum without warrant, and even without a certainty that they can be honoured is a very painful experiment. To resort to the Coffers of Congress into which we shall probably be reminded that not a single shilling has been contributed by Virga. in favor of Citizens too whose misfortunes will be traced up to disrespect to recommendations of Congress, will be far from relieving our feelings. Having not yet conferred with my Colleague on the subject, the result of these perplexities is uncertain.
For want of something more interesting, I will epitomize for you the proceedings of Congress on Friday last. I have already informed you, if my recollection does not fail me, that Congress long since recd. a letter from Mr. H. L. informing them of his di[s]charge from captivity, and of his having authorized an expectation in the British ministry that Cornwallis should in return be discharged from his parole. Shortly after a letter from Docr. F. acquainted Congress that at the pressing instance of Mr. L. in consideration of the power given him to exchange B——g——e for him and of the reasonableness of the thing he had executed an instrument setting Cornwallis at full liberty, untill the pleasure of Congress should be known. These papers had been committed, and the Committee had reported a ratification of the instrument. After some debate a recommittment took place. In this state the business remained untill the day abovementioned, when in order to satisfy some members who had called for a report, and to enable the Committee to adapt their report to the sense of Congress, a motion was made to instruct the Committee to report a proper act of rati &c. On this motion the merits of the case, which as connected with our national character may be deemed of some moment, fell under general discussion. In support of the motion it was argued that whenever a public Minister entered into unauthorized engagements, the only alternative which presented itself to the Sovereign, was either to ratify the engagements or to recal the minister unless indeed he should prefer both: that Congress, having even refused to permit the minister in question to decline his appointment had therefore no option left but to support him in what he had taken upon himself: that nothing could be more preposterous than to detain him in so dignified & confidential a service, and at the same time to degrade him in the estimation both of his friends and enemies, by a public disavowal of his conduct: that it was particularly improper to send him into negociations with the latter under the impression of supposed obligations to them that a part of this reasoning was applicable to the part which Dr. F. another minister had taken in the measure[;] that the Marquis de la Fayette who in consequence of the liberation of Cornwallis had with the approbation of the Ministers, undertaken an exchange of several of his family, would also participate in the mortification; that finally it was greatly overrating the importance of Cornwallis to sacrifice all these considerations to the policy or gratification of prolonging his captivity
On the adverse side it was said that the British Govt. having treated Mr. L. not as a prisoner of war but as a Traitor, having refused to exchange him for Genl. B——g——e when the offer was made, and having declared by the British commanders at N. Y. that he had been freely discharged, neither Mr. L. nor Congress could be bound either in honor or justice, to render an equivalent, whilst policy strongly inculcated that so barbarous an instrument of war and so odious an object to the people of the U. S. should be held as long possible in the chains of captivity; that as the latest advices rendered it probable that Mr. L. was at this time on his return to America, the dignity of the Commission for peace could not suffer from any mark of disapprobation which might lie on his public conduct; that Docr. F’s character was guarded against injury in the case by an express reservation in his act for the allowance or disapprobation of Congress; that the same might be said with respect to the Marquis de la Fayette; that the solemn declaration made by Congress agst. any partial exchanges untill a cartell should be established on national principles would not admit even of a ratification of an exchange antecedent to the declaration.
These were the ostensible reasons for the opposite opinions on this question. We may well suppose however, that with some members at least they were secretly corroberated, on one side by personal attachment to Mr. L. and on the other by a dislike to his character and a distrust excited by circumstances which I some time ago related to you. It is to be observed at the same time that several members who admitted the force of this last consideration, were led by the arguments first stated, to oppose the opinion of those who urged it. The Question was at length suspended at the request of some new members who wished for further information. There is some reason to believe that it will be followed by an attempt to rescind the appointment

The obstinacy of Rhode Island in rejecting the Impost, is a subject of very general and pointed crimination not only among the public creditors and their friends who deem it equivalent to a denial of justice but among the most enlightened patrons of the foederal interests who pronounce it a blow to our credit abroad as well as our future credit at home And in truth who can combine this consideration with the paltry payments on the last requisition of Congress and not shudder at the prospect This obstinacy on the part of R. I. is supposed, on good grounds, to be much cherished by the limited manner in which other states have acceded to the impost from which she infers a latent repugnance to the measure. Would it not then be prudent in Virginia to revise and enlarge her act of compliance? If her example should prove less efficatious than might be wished it would at least have a conciliating effect on other states and gain her general credit I see no possible objection; unless indeed, she wishes the plan to be frustrated; in which case I can only give it as my firm opinion that a thorough knowledge of public affairs would speedily reconcile her to it. If your own ideas correspond with those here expressed, and the temper of the Legislature be not unfavorable, you will give such suggestions as may be best adapted to the object, and make them the subject of a future paragraph.
The copiousness of your favor of the 16th. is a flattering presage of legislative communications. The reply of Mr. Jefferson to Mr. M——s’s queries is more accessible than you were aware. I have had a perusal of it, and have taken a few extracts. All therefore that will be necessary on your part will be to specify your commands. A transcript of the entire work I presume might be obtained, but it is too voluminous for any other pen than a hired one, to wch. perhaps objections might arise from delicacy. My extracts would have been fuller had I not taken it for granted that Mr. J. had retained a copy of which I might herafter avail myself.
A letter from Genl W. of the 19th. informs Congress that the residue of the B. fleet was about leaving N. Y. that 25 transports had arrived there from Quebec prepared before their sailing for the reception of troops, and that he had rcd. thro’ two channels intelligence that troops were actually embarking, altho’ he cd. not vouch for it. Another acct. had also arrived of the evacuation of Charlestown, the foreign troops having gone to Halifax & the British to the West Indies.
Col: Hamilton took his seat in Congress yesterday as a Delegate for the State of N. Y. Mr. Peters, Mr. Fitsimmons & Genl. Mifflin have attended some days as members for Pennsa.


Title: Notes on Debates, 27 November 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

Wednesday Novr. 27th 17
The report of the Committee on the letter from the Lt. Govr. of R. Island (see Novr. 25) was made & taken into consideration.
It was moved by Mr. McKean to insert in the first clause on the Journal, after directing the apprehension by Genl Washington “in order that the sd persons may be brought to trial.” The reason urged for the motion was that it might appear that the interposition was not meant to supercede civil process farther than the necessity of the case required. Agst. the motion it urged that it would lead to discussions extremely perplexing & dilatory, & that it would be more proper after the apprehension sd. have taken place. The motion was lost[;] 6 States only being for it.
With respect to the main question it was agreed on all sides that it was indispensable to the safety of the U. S. that a traiterous intercourse between the inhabitants of Vermont & the Enemy should be suppressed. There were however two modes proposed for the purpose viz the direct & immediate interposition of the military force according to the Report, and 2dly. a reference in the first instance to the acting Authority in Vermont, to be followed in case of refusal or neglect of Justice on the offenders, by an exertion of compulsive measures against the whole body.
In favor of the 1st. mode it was sd. that it would be the only effectual one & the only one consistent with the part Congress had observed with regard to Vermont; Since a reference to the Authority of Vermont which had itself been suspected & accused would certainly be followed at the best by a mere mock trial; and would more over be a stronger recognition of its independence than Congress had made or meant to make.
In favor of the 2d. mode it was alledged that the body of the people in Vermont were well attached to the Revolution, that a sudden march of military force into the Country might alarm them, that if their Rulers abetted the Traitors, it wd. disgrace them in the eyes of their own people, and that Congress would be justified in that event to “split Vermont up among the other States” This expression as well as the arguments on this side in general came from Mr. Howell of R. I. whose object was to render the proceedings of Congress as favorable as possible to the Independence of Vermont.
In order to compromise the matter Mr. Arnold moved that the Commander in cheif sd. be directed to make a previous communication of his intentions & the evidence on which they were founded to the persons exercising authority in within the district in question.
It was suggested by Mr. Madison as a better expedient that he sd. be authorized to make the communication if he should deem it conducive to the more certain apprehension of the suspected persons.
The Delegates from N. Y. said they would agree that after the apprehension should have been effected, the Commander might give notice thereof to the Persons exercising authority in Vermont.
It was finally compromised as it stands on the Journal.
In the course of the Debate Mr. Clark informed Congress that the Delegates of N. Jersey could not vote for any act which might oppose forces to the authority of Vermont, the Legislature of that State, having so construed the Resolutions of the 7 & 20th. of Aug: as to be incompatible therewith & accordingly instructed their Delegates.
The communication directed to the States on this occasion thro’ the Commander in Cheif was objected to by several members as an improper innovation. The object of it was to prevent the risk of discovery, if sent before the plans which might be taken by Genl Washington were sufficiently advanced, of which he was the proper Judge.


Title: To James Madison from Edmund Randolph, 29 November 1782
From: Randolph, Edmund
To: Madison, James

My dear sir
Pettus’s Nov: 29. 1782.
I yesterday saw Mr. Jefferson, to whom it was unnecessary to add incentives to his acceptance of his plenipotentiaryship. He purposes to enter upon it, and with as much expedition, as his private affairs will suffer. He adopts the route by Philadelphia, as essential to his information. His eldest daughter will accompany him. I promised to spend the evening of the morrow with him but as the state of my aunt’s health requires my immediate attendance on her, I shall refer him to you for the communication of characters and the intelligence; suitable to his errand.
I fear, that my letter by the last post, inclosing the new cypher may have miscarried in its way from hence to the post office. But as I cannot hear anything of it I am hopeful, that it will salute you on monday; and on this supposition I shall envelop a part of this letter in it.
A day is assigned for an inquiry into the letter of doctor Lee. I have been told and believe, (but I did not collect the fact from any person who [was?] present when the motion was made in the house of delegates.) that it was opposed by himself and his brother In this no palliation was said to be used; but the opposition proceeds principally from an aversion that the letter itself should be inspected. This would imply, that something more malignant lurks behind But you, who know the course of Zeal and resentment, unsupported by a digested plan of attack, need not be taught, how little fruit can be reaped against an industr[ious] man keen in his own defence Mr. Pa[ge] to [whom] the obnoxious epistle was written has never appeared during the session. Much irritation prevails and Henry alone is wanting to give a coup de grace to his existence as a delegate.
Mr. Mercer’s project of a bank is postponed until the next session: but his scheme for a select militia; which, I mentioned in my last, will probably succeed.
On the other side you will see a declaration in detinue, which my clerk drew supposing this side to be blank. Pass on then to the next.
Capt. Marshall, a promising young gentleman of the law is elected into the privy council vice Colo. Banister.


Title: To James Madison from Benjamin Harrison, 30 November 1782
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Madison, James

Richmond Novr. 30th. 1782.
many thanks to you my Dear Sir for the Books, they are extremely dear but as you justly observe the price should be no objection, when the want of them is considered. I fall miserably short in my remittance you must impute this to my real ignorance of the cost of such books. The balance shall be forwarded by the next opportunity
Colo Bassett has brot. me a Beau hat, to be quite in character I want a fine cockade, which strange to tell can not be got here will you procure me one from your favorite milliner and send it by post in your packet.

No news yet of the surrender or rather the evacuation of Chs Town, tho’ I shall look for it in about a week.
The inquirey gos on but slowly, the day fixt for tryal is next friday. Bland, Page and M. Smith are summond to attend as witnesses. No Bill yet brot in for raising Money, and I have some fears nothing will be done in that way, till the spring, as some of the leading members think the people can not pay more than the taxes already imposed, whether this is altogether true I will not undertake to say but you may depend on it we are in a wretched situation.
what little money we have is going out every day to Philadelphia, the single article of chariots, if the folly of sending for them continues, will entirely drain us in twelve months more, and to add to our misfortunes we have made the shortest crop of every thing that has been made since my remembrance—I am Dr Sir
Your most obedt Hble Servt
Benj Harrison


Title: Benjamin Harrison to Virginia Delegates, 30 November 1782
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Virginia Delegates

Gentlemen
Richmond 30th. Novem: 1782
Your favor by Post came safe to hand, like you I have nothing new to communicate. Mr. Clarke has ship’d a quantity of Tobacco from this Country to N. York more than the first resolution of Congress amounted to, and without giving me any Information of his design, he says he had a permission to ship it from the Secretary of Congress, be so kind as to enquire into this, and know from him his reasons for giving such a Licence. I am with respect &c.
B. H.


Title: Notes on Debates, 2 December 1782
From: Harrison, Benjamin
To: Virginia Delegates

Monday Decr. 2d.
The Secy of foreign affairs resigned his office assigning as a reason, the increase of business in his Office of Chancellor of N. Y. whereby it was become impossible for him to execute the duties of both; informing Congress at the same time as a rule for providing for his successor, that his expenses exceeded his salary upwards of 3000 Dollrs per annum. The letter of resignation was committed to Mr. McKean, Mr. Osgood &—


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 2 December 1782
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

Dear Sir
Philada. Decr. 2d. 1782.
The Secy. of F. Affairs communicated to me a few days ago his determination speedily to resign his office He asked me in the course of conversation whether I thought Mr. Jefferson would prefer the vacancy to his foreign appointment I answered him in the negative. He then asked whether I supposed he wd. accept the commission of Jay at Madrid in case the latter should prefer the secretariship of foreign affairs and be appointed to it. I told him I could not answer that question, but doubted much whether Congress would consent to part with the services of Mr Jay as a negociator of peace I wish you to mention this conversation to  and acquaint me with the result. The want of a cypher with him will be an apology for omitting a direct communication. Thro’ your hands also it may be accompanied with explanations if requisite. I leave it to yourself to decide how far it may be worth while to feel the pulse of our friend Mclurg with respect to the vacancy in question
Mr. Marbois apprised me the evening before last that a French frigate will sail from this port in about three weeks and that it is probable Ct. R——u and the Chevr. de Chatt——x will take their passage in her than in the frigate in the Chesapeak If the river should not be threatened with ice the time of her sailing may possibly be procrastinated Should this obstruction not take place before the middle of January there will be some chance of another frigate at this port These circumstances may be very interesting to Mr Jefferson and I beg you to give him the earliest notice of them. If I cd. suppose that these & other considerations cd leave any uncertainty as to his coming hither in the first instance I would press that point anew, being more & more convinced of its utility not to say necessity & finding that it is generally viewed in the same light
I send this by Mr. Nathan who visits Richmond in pursuit of his demand agst. the State. A duplicate of it will make a part of my letter by the post tomorrow.
I am my dear friend
J. M.


Title: Queries to and Answers by Jacquelin Ambler, [3 December 1782–8 February 1783]
From: Madison, James,Ambler, Jacquelin
To: Ambler, Jacquelin,Madison, James

Editorial Note
In his letter to Edmund Randolph, 3 December 1782 (q.v.), JM enclosed two copies of these questions. One copy was for Randolph’s files, the other for delivery to Jacquelin Ambler, the Virginia state treasurer, for his reply. Randolph docketed his copy, “Queries sent to Mr. Ambler.” Having recovered this copy many years later, JM added “1783” to Randolph’s docket. Even later, in his old age, JM docketed his own draft copy “June 6 1782 Queries from R. Morris.” Above this docket, “James Madison” appears in an unknown hand.
The dates in the two dockets admit of no certain explanation. On the Randolph copy JM may have written “1783” as the year when he received the replies to his queries. On his draft copy he may have combined the year mentioned in query No. 16 with the day and month mentioned in query No. 20. “R. Morris” certainly did not prepare the list of questions, although as superintendent of finance he had sought answers to some of them and had conferred about them with JM and other delegates in Congress (Wharton, Revolutionary Diplomatic CorrespondenceFrancis Wharton, ed., The Revolutionary
          Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States (6 vols.; Washington, 1889)., IV, 601–4, 790–94; V, 164–69; JCCWorthington Chauncey Ford et al.,
        eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774–1789 (34
        vols.; Washington, 1904–37)., XXII, 429–46; Papers of MadisonWilliam T. Hutchinson, William M. E. Rachal, et al., eds., The Papers of James
          Madison (5 vols. to date; Chicago, 1962——)., IV, 67–69; 72, n. 1; 140, n. 3; 269–70; 270, n. 2; 283–84). For the immediate context of the queries, see the first paragraph of JM to Randolph, 3 December 1782.
Although, in view of the efforts of Morris and Congress to obtain money to ease the severe financial crisis, JM hoped for quick replies to his queries, nearly two months elapsed before he received even a part of the desired information (JM to Randolph, 30 December 1782). The delay was occasioned by the heavy load of public duties borne by Ambler and other Virginia officials upon whom he had to depend for relevant financial data. In a letter of 1 February 1783 to JM, Ambler ambiguously remarked that he had been unable to obtain from the auditors “Answers to any of the other Queries” (LC: Madison Papers). This may signify either that he was at that time enclosing replies to some of the queries or had enclosed them in an earlier letter; but no earlier letter has been found. This enclosure, granting that he sent one either before or on 1 February 1783, probably answered only the first eight questions. The replies to these are now missing, and were in 1900, when Gaillard Hunt prepared his edition of JM’s writings (Madison, Writings(Hunt ed.). Gaillard Hunt, ed., The
          Writings of James Madison (9 vols.; New York, 1900–1910). [Hunt ed.], I, 271 n.). As for the remaining twelve questions, Ambler enclosed in his letter of 8 February 1783 (LC: Madison Papers) the replies made and written by Foster Webb, Jr., commissioner of the Virginia state treasury.
Thus, although a considerable interval of time separates the twenty questions from the twelve answers, they are brought together here in deference to clarity rather than chronology.

[3 December 1782]
1.  What is the amount of the old Contl: bills actually sunk by Virga. in pursuance of the Act of the 18th. of March?
2.  What is the probable sum remaining in the hands of Individuals in Virga?
3.  Does it circulate and at what value?
4.  How Stands the law with respect to it & what is the prospect of its further redemption?
5.  How much of the 6/10ths. of the new Contl. emissions has been issued?
6.  How much of the sum issued has been redeemed?
7.  At what value was it generally issued?
8.  At what value does the outstanding sum (if any) circulate?

9.  Have the State emissions been all funded at 1 for 1000 under the act for that purpose and what is the sum of specie certificates issued thereupon?

[3 December 1782–8 February 1783]

9.
Have the State Emissions been all funded at 1 for 1000 under the act for that purpose and what the sum of specie certificates issued thereupon?
}
A small sum only has been funded, the greater part being laid out in the purchase of back lands. The time continued for bringing in the same till first June next.

10.
At what rate are these Certificates negociated?

10.
At what rate are those Certificates negociated?
}
No demand for such—the day of redemption being too distant.

11.
What is the conjectured amount of Certificates in Virga. issued by Continental officers? and at what rate are they negociated?

11.
What is the conjectured amount of Certificates in Virginia issued by Cont. Officers and at what are they negociated?
}
About £100,000. has been issued to Cont. Officers in Certificates, and others daily issuing—negociated from 2. to 4. for 1. Those issued by them cannot be ascertained.

12.
What is the conjectured amount of Certificates issued by the State for continental purposes? and at rate negociated?

12.
What is do. of do. issued by the State for Continental purposes? & at what are they negociated?
}
The Auditors of public Accounts can only answer these, who are much engaged at present. The debits are supposed to be very large.

13.
What is the amount of debits in the Auditor’s Office agst. the U.S. for advances made by Virginia independent of the Requisitions of Congress?

13.
What is the amount of debits vs. the U.S. for advances made by Virginia independent of requisitions of Congress?
}

14.
What is the amount of credits independent of the same?

14.
What is do. of Credits independent of the same?
}

15.
In what degree and at what times is there a prospect of payments under the Requisition of 8 million for the current year?

15.
In what degree and at what times, is there prospect of payments under the requisition of 8. Million for the Current Year?
}
No probability soon. Taxes for the Current year are not payable till first May & those chiefly commutable for; as you will observe by the Gazette of the 1st Feby.

16.
What appears from the returns to be the aggregate valuation of lands made under the act of Jany. 1. 1782 directing the same?

16.
What appears from the Returns to be the aggregate valuation of Lands, made under the Act of July 1st. 1782. directing the same?
}
£6,042,401 .. 2 .. 5. N.B. Eight Counties have made no returns.

17.
Is the valuation deemed pretty true on the whole and pretty equal among individuals?

17.
Is the valuation deemed pretty true on the whole? and pretty equal among Individuals?
}
Very unequal, especially among Individuals, a law passed last Session for equalizing the land Tax, is intended to remedy the Evil complained of.

18.
What is the computed number of White inhabitants?

18.
What is the computed number of White Inhabitants in Virginia?
}
Many of the Returns did not distinguish between the Whites & blacks so that this cannot be at present answered.

19.
What of Black do?

19.
What of black do?
}
About 230,000.

20.
What is the amount of the losses from the Enemy returned under the act of June 6. last

20.
What is the Amt. of losses returned under the Act of June 6th last?
}
Returns not yet fully made.


Title: Notes on Debates, 3 December 1782
From: Madison, James
To:

Teusday Decr. 3.
After a verbal report of the Committee above mentioned, who acquainted Congress that in a conference with Mr. Livingston he professed a willingness to remain in office till the 1st. of Jany. to give time for the choice of a Successor, Mr. McKean proposed the Resolution, which stands on the Secret Journals; several alterations having been made however in the course of its consideration. With respect to the Preamble particularly, a change took place. As it was first moved it recited as the ground of the resignation the incompatibility of the office of foreign affairs with the Chancellorship of N. Y. To this recital it was objected by Mr Madison that such a publication of preference of the office of the Chan[c]ellor of a particular State, to the office of foreign Affairs under U. S. tended to degrade the latter, whereupon the Preamble on the Journal was substituted. In the course of this business the expediency of augmenting the Salary was suggested, but not much supported. Mr. Howel & Mr Clarke opposed it strenuously.
The Report of the Committee on the case of Vermont mentioned on Thursday the 14 of Novr. was called for by Mr. McKean, & postponed on his motion to make way for a set of Resolutions declaring that as Vermont in contempt of the Authority of Congress & their Recommendations of  1779 exercised jurisdiction over sundry persons professing allegiance to the State of N. Y. banishing them and stripping them of their possessions, the former be required to make restitution &c. and that in case of refusal or neglect Congress will enforce the same. &c. A motion was made by Mr. Clark 2ded. by Mr. Howel to strike out the latter clause, in favor of which it was said that such a menace ought to be suspended untill Vermont should refuse to comply with the Requisition; especially said Mr. Howell as the present proceeding being at the instance of Phelps & other exiles was an exparte one.
Against the motion for expunging the clause, it was observed that a requisition on Vermont without such a menace wd. have no effect, that if Congress interposed they ought to do it with a decisive tone; that as it only enforced restitution in cases where spoliations had been committed and therefore was conditional, the circumstance of its being exparte was of no weight, especially as Congress cd. not call on Vermt. to appear as a party after her repeated protestations agst. appearing.
On this occasion Mr. Carroll informed Congress that he had entirely changed his opinion with regard to the policy requisite with regard to Vermt. being thoroughly persuaded that its leaders were perfidious men & that the interest of U. S. required their pretensions to be discountenanced; that in this opinion he was not a little confirmed by a late conversation with Genl. Whipple of N. Hamshire at Trenton in which this gentleman assured him that the Governing party in Vermont were perfidiously devoted to the British interest, & that he had reason to believe that a British Commision for a Govr. of that district had come over & was ready to be produced at a convenient season. Some of the members having gone out of Congress & it being uncertain whether there would be more than six States for the clause, an adjournment was moved for & voted.
The proceedings on this subject evinced still more the conciliating effect of the territorial cession of N. York, on several States & the effect of the scheme of an ultramontane State within Pennsa. on the latter State. The only States in Congress which stood by Vermont were Rhode Island which is supposed to be interested in lands in Vermt. and N. Jersey whose Delegates were under instructions on the subject.