Title: To James Madison from the Reverend James Madison, 22 November 1788
From: Madison, James (Reverend)
To: Madison, James

Williamsburg.
Novr. 22d. 1788.
I cannot, my dear Friend, refrain writing a few Lines, in Consequence of the late Vote of the Assembly respecting Senators for the new Govt. It is certainly a remarkable Instance, to say the least, of that Whim & Caprice wh. has so often controuled the Decisions of Popular Bodies. I do not know indeed, whether you wished an Appointment in the Senate, but if you did, I am sure the Effect of the Vote is much more sensibly felt by many of your Friends in this Part of the Country, who are anxious to see you concerned in putting the vast & delicate Machine of our new Governt. into Motion. Their Hope now is, that you will be elected one of the Representatives, & I thought it might not be improper to inform you, that your Election appears certain in this lower Part of the Country, provided you permit yourself to be nominated. The Spirit wh. seems to govern the Anticonstitutionalists, is from the general Report, by no Means laudable. How the Districts may be arranged, cannot be foreseen, but if such a Law respecting them & Representatives be passed, as the Nature of the Case wd. seem to point out, I beleive there wd. [be] no Doubt of your Election for the District into wh. this Part of the Country wd. be thrown. If a Freehold be required in the District for wch. the Representative is chosen, Lots in this Town may be had at a very low Rate, & you will make me happy, provided I can be any Way instrumental in accomodating you.
Genl. Nelson is the only Person commonly spoken of, and he will not serve; Mr Page has been also mentioned, but I beleive, he wd rather give you his Interest, than serve himself. Mr R who is now an Inhabitant of this Town, will be forward in promoting yr. Election, if necessary, and so will, I doubt not, every one of Influence, who wishes to see the Genl. Govt. put under the Guidance of able & virtuous Patriots.
After all, I shd not have written to you upon this Subject, had it not been reported, that the Views of some, or of a Party, were to endeavour to exclude you altogether from a Share in the New Govt. Such Views will operate much less, in this lower Country, where the Inhabitants are generally attached to the new System, and where of Course they will prefer a Person who has been it’s best Advocate. But shd my Letter manifest more Zeal than Prudence, of wh you must judge, you must at least attribute it to the Sincerity with wh I am Dr Col. Yr. truely affe.
J Madison


Title: To James Madison from James Monroe, 22 November 1788
From: Monroe, James
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Richmond Novr. 22. 1788
Your favor of the 5th. was not presented me untill the day before yesterday, or it should have been answer’d sooner. I think with you the act of Congress respecting the missisippi an acquisition on that side, and therefore an happy circumstance. It must make an impression on the new government, and if the disposition of Spain shod. be what I had reason to believe it was, before the commencment of the late unfortunate negotiation, I am persuaded an amicable adjustment upon our principles on that subject will be found an easy thing.
The arrangment of the Judiciary is the principal subject before the house. It has been agreed by all to pass by the question “whether the Judiciary may declare a law, in their opinion agnst the Constitution, void,” as calculated to create heats & animosities that will produce harm. A desire prevails of amending the district court law, but in what manner has not been fully discover’d. A plan is before the house for instituting a court of appeals, as seperated from the other courts, by having new members appointed from the country. This to form a court of impeachment to try the genl. court, the latter the appls. The appeals to be likewise a court of dernier resort upon appl. A conversation took place wherein it was propos’d to take three Judges of the genl. ct. & with the 3. chancelors form a court of appls. as the dernier resort, and as the court of impeachment to institute one occasionally in the mode designated by the confederation for deciding territorial controversies, or somewhat in that way. The Executive to nominate 15 or any given number and to have them reduc’d to 5. by the Judges or their council & the council for the legislature striking off one each, untill reduc’d to that number. The former plan is before the house and whether it will meet with opposition is incertain.
It is generally agreed to make no other alteration in the revenue system than by such change in the appropriation as will supply the defect of the impost, wh. will belong to the U S. after march. Whether the impost system of the State shall cease then, or continue untill contrary provisions are made, seems to be a doubtful question. An apprehension that other States may lay theirs aside and open their ports free from duty in the interval, has weight on the minds of some and disposes them for a similar measure, especially as they suppose the amt. will belong to the U S. but I rather believe ours will be continued untill Congress direct otherwise, let the revenue accrue to whom it may. I am with real esteem yr. fnd. & servant
Jas. Monroe


Title: From James Madison to Edmund Randolph, 23 November 1788
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Edmund

My dear friend
Philada. Novr. 23. 1788
Your two favors of the 5th. & 10th instant have been duly recd. The appointments for the Senate communicated in the latter, answer to the calculations I had formed, notwithstanding the contrary appearances on which the former was founded. My only surprize is that in the present temper and disproportionate number of the antifederal part of the Assembly, my name should have been honored with so great a vote as it received. When this circumstance is combined with that of the characters which I have reason to believe concurred in it, I should be justly chargeable with a very mistaken ambition, if I did not consider the event in the light which you anticipated. I shall not be surprized if the attempt should be equally successful to shut the door of the other House agst. me, which was the real object of my preference as well for the reason formerly suggested to you, as for the additional one that it will less require a stile of life with which my circumstances do not square, & for which an inadequate provision only will probably be made by the public. Being not yet acquainted with the allotment of Orange in the districts, I can form no estimate of the reception that will be given to an offer of my services. The district in which I am told it is likely to be thrown, for the choice of an Elector, is a very monitory sample of what may & probably will be done in that way.
My present situation embarrasses me somewhat. When I left N. York, I not only expected that the Choice for the Senate would be as it is, but was apprehensive that the spirit of party might chuse to add the supposed mortification of dropping my name from the deputation to Congress for the fraction of a year remaining. I accordingly left that place under arrangements which did not require my return. At the same time, I had it in view, if left entirely to my option, to pass the Winter or part of it there; being desirous of employing some of the time in matters which need access to the papers of Congress, & supposing moreover that I should be there master more of my time than in Virginia. The opportunity of executing my plan is given me I find by one of the votes of the Assembly. On the other hand I am now pressed by some of my friends to repair to Virginia as a requisite expedient for counteracting the machinations agst. my election into the H. of Reps. To this again I am extremely disinclined for reasons additional to the one above mentioned. It will have an electioneering appearance which I always despised and wish to shun. And as I should shew myself in Orange only, where there will probably be little difficulty, my presence could have no very favorable effect: Whilst it is very possible that such a mark of solicitude strengthened by my not declining a reappointment to Congress, and now declining to serve in it, might by a dextrous misinterpretation, be made to operate on the other side. These considerations are strong inducements to join my colleagues at N. York, and leave things to their own course in Virginia. If Orange should fall into a federal district it is probable I shall not be opposed; if otherwise a successful opposition seems unavoidable. My decision however is not finally taken.
Mr. Dawson arrived here this morning. He took Anapolis in his way, where he tells me the disputed election of Baltimore engages the whole attention at present.
Will you be good eno’ to enable me to answer the inclosed paper. I do not chuse to trust my recollection of the law on the subject. The enquiry comes from the French Consul at N. York.
You may continue to address yr. letters to N. York till I give other notice as they will not be lost whatever direction I may take, and will be highly grateful if I should return thither. Yrs. most affectly.
Js. Madison Jr


Title: To James Madison from Richard Bland Lee, 25 November 1788
From: Lee, Richard Bland
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Richmond Nov: 25 1788
Inclosed you will receive the Journal containing the strongest effort of federalism in our Legislature. I cannot but flatter myself that the good sense of our Poeple will treat with proper Contempt the conduct which must be so unavailing & disgraceful to our Country. We are waiting with anxiety to receive your permission to publish such parts of your letter to Mr: T. if not the whole, which will vindicate your character from the aspersions of those who from their enmity to the Constitution have inlisted themselves adversaries to you—and are making every exertion however unmanly to exclude you from the house of Representatives. We are preparing to send forth the proceedings of the Legislature touching the new Constitution, with proper strictures to open the eyes of the poeple. Which we hope will give them a proper view of the subject—and point their attention to the persons most deserving of their confidence. We are now engaged in arranging our finances to meet the new system—and taking measures to carry into effect the Law establishing district courts—which I fear will keep us here till near Christmass. Mr: Henry has left us—and will not probably return during the present Session. I am with greatest esteem & regard Yr. most ob: hum: sert:
Richard Bland Lee


Title: To James Madison from Edward Carrington, 26 November 1788
From: Carrington, Edward
To: Madison, James

My dr sir
Richmond Nov. 26. 1788
Since my last it is decided that Monroe is to be your opponent. The Interest of both Gabel & Strother will be combined in his favor. I wish you could be in the district as no pains will be spared to impress the minds of the people with prejudices against you—the ground taken is that you are utterly against any kind of alteration in the Govt. The Election throughout the State is to be on the second of February—so it went from the lower House. I was told this ev’ning that an alteration to sometime about the last of January took place in the Senate. If such is the case it escaped me when the bill was returned. I have already apprised you of the political Hostility of Monroe, and it will be well for you to pay some regard to it.
The remonstrance of the Judges has excited a good deal Heart-burning in the House, particularly with Mr. Henry—they will however get well over it—a Bill is forming which will preserve the district plan with a considerable reform in the judiciary system—a separate Court of appeals is proposed to be established. The Court of Chancery to stand as formerly & its Judges to be withdrawn from the district duty. The Judges of the Genl Court to whom the admiralty Judges are to be joined, to do the district duty—one Judge to be capable of holding a district Court. The Chancellors now in office will be elected to form the High Court of appeals—three Judges from the Genl. Court bench will probably take their places which will leave 9 to perform the district duty, each taking two districts. This is the Skeleton of the plan, and I have every reason to think it will go down, but as it will require a small addition of money to the present expence, that circumstance is to be counted upon as, at lea[s]t, a difficulty. No addition of Salary will take place except perhaps in the form of travelling expences to the district Judges. Present me to Your worthy Colleague Mr. Griffin & beleive me to be with great sincerity Your Affe. Freind & Hl St.
Ed Carrington

P. S. Accept my thanks for your attention to the picture case—give yourself no further trouble about it. I can get one here.


Title: From James Madison to Crèvecoeur, 30 November 1788
From: Madison, James
To: Crèvecoeur

Dear Sir
Philada. Novr. 30. 1788
I have recd. the answer from General Washington on the subject of your memorandum to me, which I cannot so well communicate as in his own words—“With respect to the Sulla—before I attempt to give an account of the cultivation of it, and of the result, I must request the favor of you to apologize for me to Mr. St. John for not having acknowledged the receipt of it. The truth is, that until I was informed by you from whom the seed came, I knew not to whom I was indebted for them. In my room at Mr. Morris’s (where papers addressed to me were generally laid) I one day found a bundle containing the seed in question, unaccompanied by a letter card—or clue of information to direct my acknowledgment of the receipt. I remember to have recd. a letter from Mr. St. John whilst I was in Philada. written in French, the purport of which I got explained to me; but if any mention of Sulla was made therein, it was omitted or I have forgotten it. Thus much by way of exculpation. I am sorry to add that this plant for want perhaps of knowing its nature &c, came to nothing. The seed vegetated partially; and not being able to find the name in any botanical list in my possession, or to come at the properties of it, and it appearing moreover ingrateful for the first attentions I gave it, it was neglected afterwards.”
Mr. Tardivous delivered me your other memorandum on the subject of the deed of conveyance, and I have taken the proper steps for obtaining the necessary information. As soon as I am possessed of it, I shall take care to forward it to you. With great esteem & regard I am Dear Sir Your Obedt. hble. servt
Js. Madison Jr


Title: From James Madison to Henry Lee, 30 November 1788
From: Madison, James
To: Lee, Henry

My Dear sir
Philadelphia Nov. 30th 1788.
Your favor of the 29th Ult: was received in N. York—the pleasing one of the 19th Inst. found me in this City, whither I had come with a veiw either to return to N. York or proceed to Virginia as circumstances might determine. I have not sooner acknowledged your first favor, because it intimated that the Subject of it admitted of delay, and I did not wish to precipitate a determination on it—although I did not foresee any addition of lights to guide me. The truth is I am fully satisfied that your calculations of advantage in the purchase are in substance at least well founded. I cannot be less so, that the proposition to me is the genuine offspring of a freindship, which demands the warmest returns and acknowledgedments [sic]. An opportunity of bettering my private circumstances cannot be prudently disregarded by me—and I need not add that one more acceptable could not be found, than that in which every instance of profit to myself would be a pleasing proof of concurrent profit to you. To these considerations nothing is opposed but an inability to make the contributions which would be due & necessary on my part—and a fixt aversion to becoming a burden in the contract, and to stand in the way perhaps of other freinds, who have an equal title to gratification, with the requisite means of giving effect to the plan. I do not know that within 12 months I could command more than one or two hundred pounds, unless I could dispose of property, which is not at present practicable.
You will see from the above explanation that notwithstanding my inclination, I dare not avail myself of your freindship on this occasion—any farther than arrangements can be engrossed in the Bargain which will make the bargain contribute itself the means of fulfilling its obligations, and its objects. So far I shall be happy in partaking its benefits in such proportion as you may think fit—not exceeding the reparation in your own behalf. How far the means can be extracted out of the bargain you alone can determine. I apprehend that one at least of the gentlemen on whom you have cast an eye, is in no condition at present to enter into such a speculation. Wadsfirth is probably able—but I cannot even guess his dispositions on the subject—of the other two I know nothing.
The measures pursued at Richmond are as impolitic as they are otherwise exceptionable—if alterations of a reasonable sort are really in view, they are much more attainable from Congress than from attempts to bring about another Convention. It is already decided that the latter mode is a hopeless pursuit—N. H—Mass—Con. N. J. Pena. & Delaware having appointed Senators known to be Bona fide freinds to the Constitution. From the 1st state will be Langdon & Bartlett—from the 2d—Bowdoin & Strong—from N. Jersey, Patterson & Elmer—the others you know. Maryland, S. Carolina & Georgia will make appointments of the like complexions. The elections of Reps. for Pena. is over, but the result is not yet known from all the counties, little doubt is entertained on one side, that it will prove favorable, though the other side do not renounce its hopes. In the city the majority was nearly as five to one. In Lancaster county still greater I am told, and in one or two others, the proportion not less. The Antifederal Counties however are farthest off, and have not yet been heard from. In Berks where unanimity almost prevailed on that side, the badness of the day and the height of the waters reduced the number of voters to about 400—although the county must contain several more. In general a small proportion of the people seemed to have voted. How far this is to be charged on the weather or an indifference to the occasion I am not able to say.
I am not yet entirely recovered from the complaint which was reproduced by the journey from N. York hither—nor am I yet absolutely decided whether I shall go back in consequence of the reappointment to Cons. or proceed forthwith to Vira. I mean to be a member of the H. of Reps. if elected to that Service—and to take the proper steps for offering my services. Those of a contrary character I shall certainly decline. Even the electioneering appearance of a trip to Vira. at this crisis is not a little grating to me. Present me in the best manner to Mrs. Lee. I am yrs affey
Js. Madison jr


Title: Account with the Commonwealth of Virginia, [ca. December] 1788
From: Madison, James
To:

[ca. December 1788]

The Commonwealth of Virginia to James Madison Jr.
Dr. Dollars

1788.
To balance on account made out & transmitted—to March 23 –88.
  5 ⅓

To travelling to & service in Congress from July 1st. to Novr. 3, being 125 days
750.

To returning from Congress—11 days
 66

821 ⅓ Drs

802

 19 ⅓d.

Credit

By one Quarters advance July 1. –88.
552

By draught dated Ocr. 4. & presented by Col. Carrington
250 Dollrs

802

E. Excd.   Js. Madison jr.


Title: Account with the Commonwealth of Virginia, [ca. December] 1788
From: Madison, James
To:

[ca. December 1788]

1787.
The Commonwealth of Virginia to James Madison Jr. Dr.
   £. S. D

To attendance in Convention & Congress from July 20. to Octr. 20. being 92 days at 6 dollars per day
 165.12.—

Copy sent Aug: 2d. to Auditor

1787.
The Commonwealth of Virginia to James Madison Jr. Dr.

To attendance as a member of Congress from Octr. 20. to Jany. 20. being 92 days at 6 dollars per day
}
£165.12 —

Credt.

By surplus advance by the hands Govr. Randolph
£ 14

Balance
£151.12

E. Exd.   Js. Madison Jr.

To the Treasurer of Virginia.
  Sir

Please to pay to the Honble. John Blair or order thirty pounds current money, and to Governeur Morris Esqr. or order one hundred and twenty one pounds twelve shillings of like money, on account of your Obed hble servt.
Js. Madison Jr
Note. Separate order given in favr. of Mr. B. & Mr. M, & Mr. Ambler requested to remit the sum to Mr B. or if no oppy. to give him notice of the order.

1788. Commwlth of Va. to Js. M. Dr.

To service & travellg from Congs. from Jany 20 to March 23–62 days
372 Drs.

By advance in Novr. last
100

272 Dollrs

By draught in favr. Hazlehurst & Co.
266 ⅔

1788. Commwlth of Va. to J. M. Dr.

To balance on account made out & transmitted to
    dollrs

March 23. 1788.
  5 ⅓

To travelling to & service in Congs. from July 1st to

first Monday 3 day of Novr.
750

To returning from Congs. 11 days
 66

821 ⅓

Credit

By one Quarter’s advance July 1st.

By draught dated Ocr. 4 & presented by Col. Carrington
250 dollars


Title: Account with the Commonwealth of Virginia, [ca. December] 1788
From: Madison, James
To:

[ca. December 1788]

Dr.
Jas. Madison Esqr.

Member of Congress

  Cr.

’87

’87

Jany. 11th.
To Advance
£164.—

By attendance on Congress from 21 Jany. to 20 Ap
}

 162.

Ap. 24th.
do
 174.12.

Augt. 9.
do
 165.12.

By do. from 20 Apl. to 20 July

 165.12.0

Octo. 3
do Mem. Convention
  30.

By do. from 20 July to 20 Octo

 165.12.0

Nov. 27 ’88
do
 151.12.0

By do. from 20 Octo.’87 to 20 Jany. ’88

 165.12.0

Mar. 21
do
  80.
’88
By do. from 20 Jany. to 23 Mar.

 111.12.0

June 30
do
 165.12
 no decb.

Nov. 11
do
  75.

By do. from 1 July ’88 to 14 November
}

 244.16.0

 1006. 8.0

bala. ⅌ Contra
   8.16.0

1015 . 4.0

 1015. 4.0

Delegation to Jas. Madison

For attendance in Congress from 20 Octo. 87 to 20 Jany. 88
}
165.12.0

do. from 20 Jany ’88 to 23 Mar.
111.12.0

do. from 1 July ’88 to 14 Novr.
244.16.0

 522. 0.0


Title: To James Madison from George Washington, 1 December 1788
From: Washington, George
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir,
Mount Vernon Decr. 1st. 1788.
By a notification in the Pensylvania Packet, it appears that the Southern Mail was robbed on the 22d. Ult in the State of Delaware. As it was about, at least not far from the time, I wrote you fully in answer to your favor of the 5th. of Novr. I am anxious to know its fate. If it has not reached your hands I will upon intimation thereof transmit a duplicate of my sentiments respecting the Falls Estate. At present I shall only give fresh assurances, of what I hope you are fully persuaded, that I am—My dear Sir, Yr. Most Obedt. & Affecte Sert
Go: Washington


Title: From James Madison to Richard Bland Lee, 1 December 1788
From: Madison, James
To: Lee, Richard Bland

Letter not found. 1 December 1788. Acknowledged in Lee to JM, 12 Dec. 1788. Expresses reservations about the intended publication of an extract of his letter to Turberville of 2 Nov. 1788. Reports that moderation has prevailed in the elections in the eastern states.


Title: From James Madison to George Washington, 2 December 1788
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philada. Decr. 2d. 1788
The information conveyed in your favor of the 17th. ulto. lays me under great obligations. It was by no means my wish to have imposed the task of so full and particular a view of the subject. The general result in your own mind was all that I had in contemplation.

One of the papers herewith enclosed will shew you the state of the election for the Senate in Massts. It was understood here that Mr. Bowdoin was appointed & I have transmitted the error to some of my correspondents. N. Hampshire has made choice of President Langdon & Judge Bartlett. N. Jersey of Mr. Patterson and Docr. Elmer. Delaware of Mr. Reed and Mr. Bassett. South Carolina has postponed her choice till January. Mr. Izard, Mr. J. Rutledge, Mr. Butler and Mr. C. Pinkney are the subjects of conversation. Penna. alone has arrived at the elections for the other branch. The entire result is not yet known; but a sufficient number of the Counties have been heard from to warrant a confidence that 7 out of the 8, and a probability that the whole eight, will be found in the federal ticket. This prospect is on the whole auspicious; and shews the folly of Virga if the measures of the legislature are to be taken for the sense of the State in urging another Convention at this time. The real friends to the object professed by the leaders at Richmond, ought to see that the only hope of obtaining alterations lies in not aiming at too many, and in being conciliatory as to the mode.
I came to this City with a view either to return to New York or proceed to Virginia as circumstances might require. I was not sure that the spirit of party might not take pleasure in superseding the opportunity of remaining longer in N. York. That I find has not been the case and a task which I had assigned myself for the winter, or rather a part of it, would be favored by a situation in which I could have access to the papers of Congress. On this account, a return to N York for the ensuing fraction of a year would not be inconvenient. But I am pressed much on several quarters to try the effect of presence on the district into which I fall, for electing a Representative; and am apprehensive that an omission of that expedient, may eventually expose me to blame. At the same time I have an extreme distaste to steps having an electioneering appearance, altho’ they should lead to an appointment in which I am disposed to serve the public; and am very dubious moreover whether any step which might seem to denote a solicitude on my part would not be as likely to operate against as in favor of my pretensions. In this situation, I am not clearly & finally decided as to the part which ought to be taken. When I see the counties with which Orange is associated, I shall perhaps be more able to form some estimates which should influence my determination. This information I hourly expect, and in case it should induce me to continue my course to Virginia, I shall leave this immediately, or at least as soon as I can bear the journey. I have for some time past been much indisposed with the piles. They have not yet entirely gone off; and may possibly detain me for some days longer than the season would otherwise admit. With every sentiment of esteem & affection I am Dear Sir your Mo: Obed: hble servt
Js. Madison Jr


Title: To James Madison from Edward Carrington, 2 December 1788
From: Carrington, Edward
To: Madison, James

My dear Freind,
Richmond Decr. 2. 1788
I was this moment favoured with yours of the 23d. Ult. I was so fully possessed of your intended conduct as to the election which is to be made in your district that I have endeavoured to give such a turn to the enquiries of those who have signified a solicitude for your coming to Virginia, as should prepare them for the event of your non appearance, at the same time that there might be no discovery of a pointed disinclination on your part to gratify them. When Mr. Page mentioned the subject to me I placed the matter in this situation with him. Indeed your coming would answer no purpose in forwarding your Election—each County will have several active Characters in your behalf. I now give it as my opinion that you ought not to come. Mr. Randolph is now with me. He will not write by this post, but requests me to inform you, that he fully concurs in this opinion. To guard against every accident, or rather to take every chance for securing your election in the State, he intends to offer you for the district in which Henrico is, including Hanover & Chesterfeild and the Counties below Henrico between Jas. River & York River, should there be a prospect of your being left out in your own. Mr. R—— seems to think that this Election might be effected. Mr. Zack. Johnston has some views of the same sort in his district—this will be against the Act concerning these Elections, which requires residence, but these Gentlemen and many others are of opinion that such a restriction was not within the power of the Legislature, and that it will avail nothing in Congress, where the qualifications of Members are to be judged of. I however have every reason to think your Election will be tolerably safe at home. Several Gentlemen who have been up in those parts tell us the people of both discriptions are much disgusted with all the proceedings of the Anti’s here.
The Bill for reforming the Judiciary is reported to the House—it is in the result of the deliberations of the Committee placed some what different from what I wrote you in a former letter—the High Court of Appeals will consist of five Judges—the High Court of Chancery of one—& the Genl Court of Nine, to be disposed of as I formerly mentioned. Mr. Wythe has agreed to remain in the Court of Chancery. I hope this reform will go down. I am my dr sir with great sincerity your Aff. Freind & Hl st.
Ed. Carrington


Title: To James Madison from Alexander White, 4 December 1788
From: White, Alexander
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Richmond 4th. Decemr 1788
Your obliging letter of 5t. October reached me before I left Woodville. I was detained some days by an indisposition so that the Resolutions on which the Address to Congress and letter to Clinton were founded, had passed before my arrival, I had however the pleasure of giving my negative to the Address and Letters themselves, and of contributing somewhat towards forming those which were offered as Amendments.
But of these matters I understand you have been informed by your other Friends, this letter is only to express my anxious wish that you may be in the House of Representatives in Congress and that you may be chosen in your own District. I believe this will be the case, but to render it more certain your presence among the People would have great affect—and I presume the business of Congress is not so urgent, but your attendance may well be dispensed with. Some Gentlemen suppose you may be elected in other Districts, and that Congress would disregard the Act which requires Residence in a particular District. I will not undertake to decide that question, but this I know, such a determination would afford much ground of clamour, and enable the opposers of the Goverment to inflame the Minds of the People beyond anything which has yet happened. We yesterday balloted for a Governor, Candidates Ben. Harrison and Beverly Randolph—the latter was elected by a Majority of 4.
The Judiciary System is again under Contemplation—the principal alterations proposed are to establish a Court of Appeals consisting of Judges distinct from the Judges of the other Courts[,] to add the Judges of the Admiralty to the General Court, and to give a compensation to the Judges of the District Courts for their additional trouble. To effect this without encreasing the number of Judges, and with as little expense as possible, it is proposed, that the Court of Appeals consist of five Judges taken from the present Bench—the Court of Chancery of one, (and it is said that Mr Wythe is willing to be that one) the General Court will then consist of nine Judges who are to go the Circuits, and preside singly each Judge in two Districts—but what alterations this Plan may undergo, or whether we shall be able to carry it into effect in any beneficial manner remains a doubt, tho’ the Bills on this subject were reported a Week ago, we have not yet been able to go into a Committee upon them. I am with Sentiments of great Regard and Esteem, Dear Sir Your Most Obt. Sert
Alex White


Title: To James Madison from William Pierce, 6 December 1788
From: Pierce, William
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Savannah, December 6th. 1788.
As I flatter myself you will be seated in one of the senatorial Chairs of the United States, I take the liberty (and I do it in full confidence that you will think me worthy of the appointment) to ask you for your vote and interest for the Office of Collector to the Port of Savannah. My views and future prospects will be confined within the limits of Georgia; I shall attempt nothing in the Legislative department of the new Government.
I will thank you to mention me to whoever may be appointed from Virginia, and to recommend me to the Senators of North Carolina. I am Dr Sir with very much esteem and respect, Your mo: obt. servt
Wm. Pierce.
P. S.—please to answer this Letter thro’ Mr. Chs Thompson.


Title: To James Madison from Henry Lee, 8 December 1788
From: Lee, Henry
To: Madison, James

My dear sir
Alexa. Decr. 8h. 88.
My business has yet detained me here. Three days ago I returned from a visit to the great falls where Genl. Washington was to have met me. The rain stopped him & the other directors, which to me was a mortifying disappointment as I entertained hopes with their aid to have concluded amicably & advantageously the dispute with Mr Fairfax. This is in train, tho the prospect is not the most promising. I want to get possession, from which moment money could be drawn from the spot. The navigation of the river begins to be used, while I was up a boat with 100 barrels of flower & much walnut plank came down from Shenandoah in 8 or 10 hours, as I was informed. The spot is magnificent & the canal complete—the advantages for water works beyond my expression of them, & no difficulty but want of cash to pay arrearages of rent, on doing which the law authorizes my re-entry & possession. I have hopes that Mr. F will give up arrearages of rent provided I quit claim to the right of cutting wood from the adjacent land which right executed would destroy his large landed estate. My last proposition is to this effect, such is my zeal to possess the property, & so gloomy all prospects of cash. Your letr. of the 29h. nov. I got yesterday, & confirms me in two things, one that you shall be part owner of the land &c, & another that my negotiations with F must be pushed. If you come into this country I wish you to view the p[r]emises, then when we meet, the business shall be formally concluded. Mrs. Lees better health will stop our intention of leaving home for the winter—this circumstance will put it more in my power to attend to this business, & will render your seeing me at stratford practicable. The season of the year precludes every apprehension, which you have erroneously imbibed with respect to the salubrity of the lower country.
The phrenzy in Richmond seems not yet to have abated, the circular letters afford new testimony of Henrys influence & venom. It is farther said that this gentlemans efforts on the late occasion have been concluded by instructing the representatives to the new Congress to act only in cases where the spirit of the Virga. amendments shall govern. If the tale is true our delegates will be expressly limited in their powers. This is only a rumour & for the reputation of our country, I hope will turn out nothing more.
You have decided as to your own intented conduct, injudiciously. Your district will certainly elect you, I have heard no person named in opposition but the beau. In this district, Thos. Lee or C. Bullitt are named among the Antis, on our side Stuart[,] L. Lee or R B Lee.
In my district on one side A Lee or Roan, on the other Corbin & myself.
It is probable that each party will fix on one man, & that the election will decide the will of the people, provided the districts have not been artfully designated. Always yours most ally.
Henry Lee
If you determine to join me in the great falls vest all your spare cash in public paper, as it will be useful to us.


Title: From James Madison to Edward Carrington, 10 December 1788
From: Madison, James
To: Carrington, Edward

Letter not found. 10 December 1788. Acknowledged in Carrington to JM, 19 Dec. 1788. Hopes Carrington will become a candidate for the House of Representatives.


Title: To James Madison from Richard Bland Lee, 12 December 1788
From: Lee, Richard Bland
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir,
Richmond Decr. 12. 1788
Your favor of the 1st. Instant arrived here yesterday. The intended publication was not struck off—it being unnecessary to have it done till near the close of the Session—and we being anxious, if possible to have yr. approbation to the insertion of certain extracts from your letter to Mr: Turberville. The inclosed which was taken from the proof sheet and is the only printed copy in existence, will shew you how cautious we had been with regard to the parts intended to be submitted to the public eye. Such only were selected, as would counteract the report, industriously circulated in the Assembly, and consequently in the state, that you were opposed to every amendment to the new government, and in every mode, and such as shewed the happy effects the adoption of it had already produced, in relation to our character in Europe. Tho’ your friends and the friends of the new System thought the insertion of this extract would have promoted your election and the federal interests thro’out the state, yet from the delicacy you express on the subject we did not hesitate a moment in erasing it—and perhaps it was prudent to omit it. Your name is not mentioned in the publication a copy of which shall be herewith sent, and only a general allusion made to the impropriety of making a faithful and conspicuous public servant, the Victim of Party rage, for no other reason, but that he had intrepidly delivered his opinion on a subject on which silence would have been in the highest degree criminal. Where base and unworthy means are used to promote measures, contrary to candor, reason, and the public good, it can never in my opinion be improper to counteract them by a true narration of facts. The Poeple are easily imposed on both with regard to men and measures, by the enemies of Virtue and order. And as they are generally governed by Passion and not by reason, a fair representation of facts is necessary, to rouse the latent generosity of the human mind, and rekindle their affection for the chara[c]ter or the measure which has been so falsely traduced. But whether the publication of the extract was proper or improper you may be assured, that the intention arose from a desire to secure your election, which, tho’ an honor from all considerations you are entitled to, we considered as essentially important to the interests of America and our own country—tho’ by no means important as you yourself were concerned—personal aggrandisement having never been your object—and your reputation being too high to stand in need of such partial aids. You may be also assured of Mr. Turberville’s delicacy on the occasion. Nothing but the strongest conviction of the propriety of the measure induced him to suffer the extract to be made.
From what I can hear your interest seems to be gaining ground tho every effort will be made by the Party, which precluded you from the Senate to prevent your election. It may not therefore be improper for you to hasten your return to Virginia, as your very presence, probably would contribute much to dissipate the little plots which may be forming agt. you. If you were to visit the Counties previous to the election and attend the Culpepper election yourself—I think there would be little doubt of your success. I suppose you know that Mr: Monroe is to be your Competitor.
I am pleased to hear that moderation prevails in the Councils of the east. And I flatter myself that another year will restore perfect harmony & concord to us.
We shall probably model our district Court system so as to render it pra[c]ticable—which next to the ratification of the Constitution will be the most salutary measure for our native Country. Wishing you health & a speedy return to us I am with warmest sentiments of esteem yr. very huml. sert.
Richard Bland Lee


Title: To James Madison from George Lee Turberville, 12 December 1788
From: Turberville, George Lee
To: Madison, James

My dear Sir
Richd. December 12th. 1788.
The moment of sympathetic fervor that prevails amongst a set of Friends, when they are distressed at the success of opposing Party; is very seldom the period for prudence to be attended to in—fortunately I have withstood all temptation and importunity so far as to save your letter from the press. The illicit & misrepresented uses that might—(& most certainly wou’d be) made of it by those who are determined to extract mischeif from the essence itself of perfection & honesty if it wou’d serve their turns is too apparent—& that they wou’d have construed it into an endeavor to obtain an interest in yr. district wou’d I beleive have been the inevitable consequence of its publication.
Wou’d to God I cou’d promise myself so much gratification as to suppose that there was a certainty of yr. Election in yr. district—your friends are sanguine in yr. favor, Yr. opponents as sanguine on the contrary—the Utmost that I can from cool deliberation, extract from the opinions of both is that there is a probability in yr. favor. The great exertions made in Mr. Munro’s favor will most probably be greatly assistant towards his Election—altho I have heard that some few have been disgusted by the assiduity & importunity of his friends & thrown thereby into the opposite scale. There is a strong probability in favor of six federal Representatives out of this state—as far as I am enabled to judge at present.
Shou’d you have leizure to answer my letters after this Date a direction to me in Richmond County by the way of Hobbs Hole will reach me.
The District Law under a new modification & indeed a new system of Jurisprudence bids fair for adoption no man having come forward to oppose the Bills in their progress they are now under their report from the committee of the Whole. The idea is a separate Court of Appeals of four Members—1 Chancellor—(Mr. Wythe) & ten judges of the General Court who are to ride the Circuits, two Judges to a Court. The post hour is come so I shall conclude with subscribing myself my dr. sir Yrs. Most respectfully &c &c &c
George Lee Turberville


Title: To James Madison from Andrew Shepherd, 14 December 1788
From: Shepherd, Andrew
To: Madison, James

Dr. Sir
Virginia Orange County. 14th. Decer. 88
Your last favours came to hand by the return of Alexander to this place, and by whom we had the pleasure of hearing of your welfare at the time he left N. Y, but sometime after had the disagreeable Accotts. of your being attacked with the complaint I severly had last year [and?] hope that you have had it much slighter and by this time perfectly got the better of it. I return you thanks for the Notice Alexr. met from you. Agreeable to your freindly request have made a satisfactory payment to your Bror. the Major and what balance there may be due will be ready at his call. As no doubt some of your connections have wrote you lately, with regard to the State of their healths, shall only now observe with respect to that, that there is no material alteration from their late situation. You no doubt have heard of the unhappy State your freind Mr Jas. Gordon has been lately in, and am afraid it will prove of some duration, if ever he gets fully over it tho from the last Accotts. of him, it was thought he was getting better, and that his freinds purposed moving him Home from Fredg. where he has been since he left Chatham.
With respect to occurrences in State afairs, you know I have niether oppty. (& what is more defficient) nor Judgement, to say anything with regard to that, and I make no doubt but you are fully informed of those matters from the best of both Publick & private correspondence. However my D Sir if you will please forgive me the freedom, I would just hint that its the opinion of some, that there are some who appear most fervent open freinds, but may prove the most Secret Enemys when circumstances once comes to the trial. However it is to be hoped that timely discoverys will be made of all suc[h] Lucifers, and their helish designs totaly frustrated, let them be ever so artfull in pretended freindship & designing correspondence.
You no doubt have had many & strong solicitations for your comeing home in time, for your offering your Services for the Country in Generall, & particularly for this State as a Representative in the new Congress, to which it is hoped by all your freinds, and by the better Majority of the State you will have no objection to, the district that this County is in consists as I have been informed of Culpepper, Spotya, Louisa Goochland Amherst Albemale & Fluvanna which with ours make Eight for choosing of a Representative which is to be on the Second day of February. I have not heared for any certainty of any person but Colo. Monroe that entends offerring, if any others the better however it is generaly thought that your Interest on the average will exceed any, but the Sooner your personal appearance could be in those Countys the better. The Ellectors for the President is the first Wednesday of January and since the commencement of this Scrall have been enformed that Genll. Stevens of Culpr. entends to offer, and have not heard of any other for certain, but a Worthy of the name of Cabel is expected. Hopeing to have the pleasure of seeing you in good health & due time I am D Sir at last hurried by a conveyance to Fredg which excuses Your most affet & Sincere frd
Andrew Shepherd


Title: To James Madison from Hardin Burnley, 16 December 1788
From: Burnley, Hardin
To: Madison, James

Dr Sir
Richmond Decr. the 16th. 1788
I suppose that you have been made acquainted before this with the several acts which have passed the legislature of Virga. for the purpose of organizing the new Government. You have no doubt been informed that this State is divided into ten districts, each to choose a representative in the new Congress, on the second day of February next. The district in which Orange is included, consists of the counties of Albemarle Amherst Orange Culpeper Spotsylvania Louisa Goochland & Fluvanna. Your friends in this district have taken the liberty of assuring the people that your services may be commanded in the house of representatives if they will confer the appointment on you. With many this is sufficient, but with all it is not. Col: Monroe is also nominated & the most active unceasing endeavours will not be wanting among his friends to secure his election. It therefore becomes indispensably necessary that your return to Virga. should be hastened as much as possible. If you could return before Culpeper Jany. Court which is on the third Monday & make it convenient to see the people of that county on that day I am satisfied it would have a decided influence on the election. I know that this has not been your usual practice, and am certain that it will be very irksome to you, but your friends hope that you will make some sacrifices of this sort however disagreable they may be in order to secure a measure to which the views of all the friends to the Govt. are pointed with the most earnest Sollicitude. Every Subject which has been introduced into the legislature & which has had the most distant relation to the new Constitution has before its determination been made a federal & ante-federal question. Great endeavours are making to give the Elections the same turn & to propogate an idea that you are wholly opposed to any alteration in the Govt. having declared that you did not think that a single letter in it would admit of a change. This circumstance alone would render your presence necessary for let these reports be denied as often as they may by your friends there are others among those who oppose you who will as repeatedly revive them and nothing can give them an effectual check but a Denial of them in the face of the people and an avowal of your real Sentiments on the subject of Amendments. If you approve my ideas on this Subject & should have it in your power, perhaps a day spent at Louisa court—on the second Monday in Jany. would not be time lost. The district court has passed the H. of Delegates with an entire change in our Jurisprudence. A Court of Appeals independent of & unconnected with any of the other Courts is to be established, The number of chancellors reduced to one and two Judges to attend each district. This System is now with the Senate & I believe there is a prospect of its meeting but little opposition there. As I suppose your correspondents are probably numerous & some of them perhaps troublesome I would not have given you the trouble of reading a line from me had not my acquaintance with the Orange district furnished me with information which your other correspondents perhaps have not the means of obtaining. I have the honor to be yr. Sincere friend & Most Obt.
Hardin Burnley


Title: To James Madison from Henry Lee, 17 December 1788
From: Lee, Henry
To: Madison, James

My dear sir
Alexa. Decr. 17h. 88
I had presumed from the decision you have taken of standing for your district, that I might have seen you here before I left this town, But as the hour of my departure is approached & my expectation baffled, I now transmit to you for your satisfaction a plot of the canal with Col. Gilpins (one of the potomack companys directors) observations.
This gentleman speaks from personal knowledge & actual surveys—my copy is not strickly literal, but comports truely with the intention & spirit of the original.
It appears to me that these observations being properly dressed & put into the American monthly magazines with the plot would be entertaining to all readers & beneficial to us.

You are known to some few as part owner of the place—& I beleive that those who esteem you, are pleased with the choice you have made.
But 17 miles from the spot to this town—this was never before known to me & appretiates the place in proportion to the real being shorter than the computed distance.
I thank you for the fruit trees. They arrived a few days ago.
Mrs. Burrs grape vines are not come. Can you contrive to obtain the accomplishment of the ladys promise. Yours affy.
Henry Lee


Title: From James Madison to James Madison, Sr., 18 December 1788
From: Madison, James
To: Madison, James, Sr.

Alexandria Decr. 18th. 1788
I arrived here this morning on my way home. I did not write you my intentions sooner because they are rather of recent date, and I wished to be able at the same time to let you know the day on which I should get to Fredg. This I have not till now been able to fix. I now find that I shall get there on Friday week, and shall accordingly then stand in need of your assistance for the completion of my Journey. It will be necessary for me to have the use of the Chair, as well on account of my baggage which consists of a Portmanteau Trunk and a Portmanteau, as on acct. of some remains of the piles which for some weeks past have been very troublesome. Whoever brings the chair must bring a saddle proper for the portmanteau. No horse need be brought for a servant, John having been left in N. York given over as incurable, and no other having been engaged. I wish the Chair to be in Town certainly on that day, and shall request the favor of Mr. Maury to send this by a hired messenger if no other conveyance can be secured. I shall remain in this neighbourhood till thursday next when I shall fall into the Stage at Colchester & proceed on Friday from Dumfries for Fredg. I could reach Fredg. on no day so well as on that above mentioned. An earlier day would be too soon for the carriage to meet me; and a later one would leave me on the road on sunday, or oblige me to postpone my resuming my journey till the tuesday following.
I have nothing to add on the subject of news, but what may be better communicated verbally on my arrival. In the mean time with my affecte. regards to all the family I conclude your dutiful son
Js. Madison Jr


Title: From James Madison to George Nicholas, 29 December 1788
From: Madison, James
To: Nicholas, George

Letter not found. 29 December 1788. Acknowledged in Nicholas to JM, 2 Jan. 1789. Announces JM’s return home to campaign and make his sentiments known to the inhabitants of the district.


Title: To James Madison from Edward Carrington, 30 December 1788
From: Carrington, Edward
To: Madison, James

My Dr Sir
Richmond Decr. 30. 1788
Since I had the pleasure of addressing you last I have heard of your arrival in Virga. I think it will be best for you to give your attention principally to Culpepper & Spotsylvania for from the best information I can get, these two Counties, perhaps indeed the former alone, will determine the Election.
I am much obliged by your flattering enquiries as to the district in which I am placed—there is not a County in it, my dear Sir, except Powhatan, which is not of the most antifederal discription—upon a consultation therefore with some of the best Characters in it, it has been determined that it would be best not to Offer any federal Character at all, as such an effort must be attended with disappointment, and perhaps perpetuate division, which a contrary conduct might do away. Bland is the only declared candidate and I suppose must be elected—it was our wish to bring forward some Antifederalist who might be less bigotted in his opinions, and from whom such a conduct might have been expected, as would be natural upon that information which is yet to be derived from better opportunities than are to be had at home. With this view we made a proposition to Mr. Samuel Goode of Mecklenburg to become a Candidate, but he declines the service, and we have not another Character to bring forward for our purpose.
A pact is to be made for making Clinton the Vice President—to make the best effort within my power for counteracting so wicked a purpose, I am induced to Offer for the appointment of Elector against Pride of Amelia. Whether I shall be elected or not is yet doubtful. If you can give me any information as to the Characters most likely to unite the Votes to the Eastward it will perhaps be for the public good that you should communicate it. My determination is, to resist the attempt which is to be made, whether chosen an Elector or not, & therefore shall be in Richmond at the time of the meeting at all events. Your letters will come to hand more safely by means of the post office here than by any other. I am yr Sincerely
Ed. Carrington


Title: From James Madison to George Eve, 2 January 1789
From: Madison, James
To: Eve, George

Sir,
January 2d. 1789
Being informed that reports prevail not only that I am opposed to any amendmends whatever to the new federal Constitution; but that I have ceased to be a friend to the rights of Conscience; and inferring from a conversation with my brother William, that you are disposed to contradict such reports as far as your knowledge of my sentiments may justify, I am led to trouble you with this communication of them. As a private Citizen it could not be my wish that erroneous opinions should be entertained, with respect to either of those points, particularly, with respect to religious liberty. But having been induced to offer my services to this district as its representative in the federal Legislature, considerations of a public nature make it proper that, with respect to both, my principles and views should be rightly understood.
I freely own that I have never seen in the Constitution as it now stands those serious dangers which have alarmed many respectable Citizens. Accordingly whilst it remained unratified, and it was necessary to unite the States in some one plan, I opposed all previous alterations as calculated to throw the States into dangerous contentions, and to furnish the secret enemies of the Union with an opportunity of promoting its dissolution. Circumstances are now changed: The Constitution is established on the ratifications of eleven States and a very great majority of the people of America; and amendments, if pursued with a proper moderation and in a proper mode, will be not only safe, but may serve the double purpose of satisfying the minds of well meaning opponents, and of providing additional guards in favour of liberty. Under this change of circumstances, it is my sincere opinion that the Constitution ought to be revised, and that the first Congress meeting under it, ought to prepare and recommend to the States for ratification, the most satisfactory provisions for all essential rights, particularly the rights of Conscience in the fullest latitude, the freedom of the press, trials by jury, security against general warrants &c. I think it will be proper also to provide expressly in the Constitution, for the periodical increase of the number of Representatives until the amount shall be entirely satisfactory; and to put the judiciary department into such a form as will render vexatious appeals impossible. There are sundry other alterations which are either eligible in themselves, or being at least safe, are recommended by the respect due to such as wish for them.
I have intimated that the amendments ought to be proposed by the first Congress. I prefer this mode to that of a General Convention, 1st. because it is the most expeditious mode. A convention must be delayed, until ⅔ of the State Legislatures shall have applied for one; and afterwards the amendments must be submitted to the States; whereas if the business be undertaken by Congress the amendments may be prepared and submitted in March next. 2dly. because it is the most certain mode. There are not a few States who will absolutely reject the proposal of a Convention, and yet not be averse to amendmends in the other mode. Lastly, it is the safest mode. The Congress, who will be appointed to execute as well as to amend the Government, will probably be careful not to destroy or endanger it. A convention, on the other hand, meeting in the present ferment of parties, and containing perhaps insidious characters from different parts of America, would at least spread a general alarm, and be but too likely to turn every thing into confusion and uncertainty. It is to be observed however that the question concerning a General Convention, will not belong to the federal Legislature. If ⅔ of the States apply for one, Congress can not refuse to call it: if not, the other mode of amendments must be pursued. I am Sir with due respect your friend & Obedt. servant
Js. Madison Jr.


Title: To James Madison from George Nicholas, 2 January 1789
From: Nicholas, George
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir,
Jany. 2d. 1789.
It gives me pleasure to find by your letter of the 29th. of Decr. that you have returned home and intend to make your sentiments known to the inhabitants of your district. Justice to yourself and your country both require that this should be done and in an effectual manner. Every art has been used to prejudice the minds of the people against you. They are told, that you tricked this country into the business by the manner in which you first proposed a general convention to our legislature; that you had a chief hand in sending forth the constitution from the Convention without the amendments generally wished; and that you are now opposed to all amendments. These things I believe originated with Henry and have been circulated through the state by his tools such as Strother &c. You have no doubt heard that when you was proposed as a Senator Henry objected to you in his place and represented you as averse to all amendments. Only one of two ways appears to me to be proper in your situation; either for you in this month to visit the different counties on their court days, or to publish an address to the people. The first will be the most disagreeable and the least likely to have a good effect as from the season of the year it cannot be expected that many will attend either the election of electors or their January court. The latter mode if the address is printed and in sufficient numbers will convey your sentiments to every freeholder’s fire side. The attack that has been made on you in your absence, the false light in which your opinions have been placed not only make this proper but I think necessary: and if I may give my real sentiments as Henry undertook in a most unprecedented manner to oppose you when nominated and to give a false account of your opinions, that you should address him also in the news papers, which address should also accompany that to the freeholders of the district, stating his conduct and that this was the only way left you from your absence and the short time you had to justify yourself. The sentiments expressed in your letter will I am certain be satisfactory with this addition that if elected let your private opinion of any particular amendment proposed by our convention be what it may, that you should consider it as your duty to procure the adoption of them all: this if it conforms to your sentiments of the conduct proper to be observed by a representative would give satisfaction to all moderate well meaning men.
I have thus with a freedom which no occasion but the present could have induced me to take offered you, whose judgment I know to be so much superior to mine upon all occasions, my sentiments as to the line of conduct most proper for you to pursue on this occasion. I consider the opposition to you as an attack on the constitution itself, and that if after leaving you out of the senate they can also prevent you from being appointed to the house of representatives it will be thought by the other states as an expression of dislike to the constitution both by the legislature and the people.
The conduct of the last Assembly may very easily be used in favor of the new government and made to prove that their conduct proceeded from a wish not to amend but to destroy the new government. If this was not the case why after objecting to the additional expence wh. would be caused by the new governt. have they passed a law to prevent any man from holding any office under the genl. and state governments at the same time which will double the expence which would other wise have been necessary for that government. If you approve of what I have mentioned there is yet time enough to get the address published and sent to the courts of the difft. counties in the district except Fluvanna and Amherst and I could send them to such hands in those counties as would distribute them. I think you had better also write to Col: Hugh Rose in Amherst, Col: George Thompson in Fluvanna, Thomas Underwood and some other of your acquaintance in Goochland, Callis, Morris and Jas. Dabney in Louisa. The other counties I am not acquainted in. I apprehend greater danger of the event than those gentn. you mention in your letter. From the information I can gather the counties this way will stand thus: Amherst ¾ ths. at least against you; Albemarle a majority in your favor but not as great as I could wish; Fluvanna at most divided, Goochland a majority against you; you should write to Ford the preacher in that county whom you know. Louisa a small majority in your favor.
I fear my situation will oblige [me] to leave this county before the election but as long as I stay no opportunity shall be lost of explaining my opinions to the people and I speak only what is thought by much the greater part of the worthy citizens of the state, when I assure you that I consider much good or evil to depend on the event of the election.
One thing strikes me respecting a second genl. convention which I have not heard mentioned by any body. If Congress call a second convention they are to determine on the mode by which the members to that convention shall be chosen. The senate is composed of the creatures of the state legislatures and if they can have influence enough the choice will certainly be referred back to their masters: thus the convention also will be the tools of the state legislatures; and by referring their proceedings to the different assemblies in the states instead of conventions for their final decision the whole business of amendments from first to last will be determined by the state legislatures. What the event will be when their power is so much abridged by the new government may be easily imagined: but I hope the people will never suffer a government adopted by them, to be changed without their being consulted, and yet I do not see how this is to be avoided if a second general convention is called.
Your county man Leland has great influence in Louisa and Goochland cannot he be prevailed on to exert himself. Culpeper and Spotsylvania are most to be dreaded and the greatest efforts made in that quarter.
If you incline to visit the different counties this month it will give me great pleasure to see you here; and if you do not come on business, if your leisure will permit it would afford me great satisfaction to see for the last time one of my acquaintance whom I most respect.
If agreeable to you our communications shall not end with my departure for Kentucky; but be renewed as often as our situation will permit. And I will thank you to give me your opinion as to the probable line of conduct that will be pursued by the new government towards that country, and the present views and future conduct of Great-Britain and Spain respecting her. Any part or the whole of your communication shall if desired remain in my own breast.
I make these enquiries not as a politician but as a private citizen of that country for I shall go there with a determined resolution never to engage in public business of any kind.
I shall make a sufficient sacrafice when I bury myself there without giving up my happiness and content by engaging in a new state of warfare with knaves and fools.
You will excuse the unconnected manner in which my thoughts are placed here. They have been inserted as they occurred from the perusal of your letter and time will not permit an attempt to reduce them into order, or add to them. I am, with the greatest respect and esteem, and the warmest wishes for your welfare, Dr. Sir, Yr. most obdt. hum: Servt.
G: Nicholas


Title: To James Madison from John Dawson, [ca. 6 January] 1789
From: Dawson, John
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
[ca. 6 January 1789]
Since I wrote you nothing worthy your attention has presented itself; We have now six states on the floor viz Massachusetts-bay, New York, New Jersey Pennylvania S. Carolina and Virginia; and a member from Rhode Island, North Carolina & Georgia—another member from Rhode Island is on his way and one from N. C. in Pennylvania. Connecticut, you know can come in at any time; we therefore expect in three or four days to have nine states represented. Colo Wardsworth, I think will be chosen President.
I have lately receivd an address from the convention of Kentucky, respecting the navigation of the Mississippi; this will be laid before Congress on their meeting; you are well aware of the difficulties which will attend this business; especially as there will not be more than nine states represented, some of which are in favour of the surrender of the river to Spain, in which number I am sorry to include South Carolina. The business of Colo Morgan, with the Court of Spain, which you mentiond to me at Philadelphia I find much more important than I at first apprehended; in my opinion it will prove an interesting era in the American history & furnisheth many arguments for U. States insisting on the free navigation of the Mississippi. I have lately seen some letters from Hutchins, and there remains not a dout but the emigrations to the New Madrid will be very great. How long these neighbours will prove friendly to Spain, or how soon she will have cause to repent of her policy is very doutful, & can only be determind by time. We are told, & I presume you heard it before you left this that a negociation is on foot between France & Spain by which New Orleans & the Floridas are to be exchan[ge]d for some of the French Islands. Shoud this event take place, and France pursues that line of policy which she has hitherto observd, it may prove highly beneficial to our western country, as well as to that Kingdom.
No packet is yet arrivd from Europe. Private accounts say that Mr. Fox is gone up to the house of Lords, as Lord Holland.
In consequence of a dispute which has taken place, & which has continued for three weeks between the two houses of assembly it is expected that there will not be any Senators to the New Goverment, appointed by this State. The house of delegates, in which there is a large majority unfriendly to the Govert. wish to make the choice by Joint ballot, and the Senate insist, that one nominated by them shall be elected. How this dispute will end I cannot say, but expect the fear of the seat of Govert. being removd from this place will induce both sides to be less obstinate than otherwise they woud be.
We hear from Massachusetts, that in their late election, only one person, (Mr Thacher) was chosen their act requiring a majority of the whole to make good an appointment. This game may continue for some time, as the friends on all sides will become warmer, & the second election is not confind to the two Candidates who had the most votes, but is on the same plan, as the first.
Williamson, from N. C. was marrid a few days since to a Miss Apthorp, a beautiful girl, about twenty two. She appears much pleasd with her bargain. May she never repent. The Marchioness charges me to present her best wishes to you. Yr. Friend.
J Dawson


Title: To James Madison from Nicholas Lewis, 9 January 1789
From: Lewis, Nicholas
To: Madison, James

Sir
Albemarle Janry. 9th. 1789
I was Applyed to lately by Mr. Peter Carr for a considerable Supply of money, he at the same time informed me that A Fund was established in Your Hands by Mr. Jefferson for the purpose of discharging the expence of his Tuition and Board & observes that that Was but A small proportion of the money that was Necessary for him to answer his other purposes. Your information on this Head, as Also Your direction & Advice respecting Mr. Carr would be thankfully recd. as I suspect that Young Gentleman is inclined to be extravigant. I am Sir with great respect your very Humble Servt.
Nicholas Lewis


Title: To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 12 January 1789
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Paris Jan. 12. 1789.
My last to you was of the 18th. of Nov. since which I have received yours of Sep. 21. and Oct. 8. with the pamphlet on the Mohiccon language, for which receive my thanks. I endeavor to collect all the vocabularies I can of the American Indians, as of those of Asia, persuaded that if they ever had a common parentage it will appear in their languages.
I was pleased to see the vote of Congress of Sep. 16. on the subject of the Missisipi, as I had before seen with great uneasiness the pursuit of other principles which I could never reconcile to my own ideas of probity or wisdom, and from which, and my knolege of the character of our Western settlers, I saw that the loss of that country was a necessary consequence. I wish this return to true policy may be in time to prevent evil. There has been little foundation for the reports and fears relative to the M. de la Fayette. He has from the beginning taken openly part with those who demand a constitution: and there was a moment that we apprehended the Bastille: but they ventured on nothing more than to take from him a temporary service on which he had been ordered; and this more to save appearances for their own authority than any thing else; for at the very time they pretended that they had put him into disgrace, they were constantly conferring & communicating with him. Since this he has stood on safe ground, and is viewed as among the foremost of the patriots. Every body here is trying their hands at forming declarations of rights. As something of that kind is going on with you also, I send you two specimens from hence. The one is by our friend of whom I have just spoken. You will see that it contains the essential principles of ours accomodated as much as could be to the actual state of things here. The other is from a very sensible man, a pure theorist, of the sect called the œconomists, of which Turgot was considered as the head. The former is adapted to the existing abuses; the latter goes to those possible as well as to those existing.
With respect to Doctr. Spence, supposed to have been taken by the Algerines, I think it extremely probable. Obrian, one of our captives there, has constantly written to me, and given me information on every subject he thought interesting. He could not have failed to know if such a capture had been made, tho’ before his time, nor to inform me of it. I am under perpetual anxiety for our captives there. The money indeed is not yet ready at Amsterdam; but when it shall be, there are no orders from the board of Treasury to the bankers to furnish what may be necessary for the redemption of the captives: and it is so long since Congress approved the loan, that the orders of the Treasury for the application of the money would have come if they had intended to send any. I wrote to them early on the subject & pointedly. I mentioned it to mr. Jay also merely that he might suggest it to them. The paiments to the foreign officers will await the same formality. I thank you for your attention to the case of mrs. Burke. We have no news of Dr. Franklin since July last when he was very ill. Tho’ the silence of our letters on that subject is a proof that he is well, yet there is an anxiety here among his friends. We have lately had three books published which are of great merit in different lines. The one is in 7. vols 8vo. by an Abbé Barthelemy, wherein he has collected every subject of Græcian literature, after a labour of 30. years. It is called les voiages d’Anacharsis. I have taken a copy for you, because the whole impression was likely to be run off at once. The second is a work on government by the Marquis de Condorcet, 2. v. 8vo. I shall secure you a copy. The 3d. are the works of the K. of Prussia, in 16 vols 8vo. These were a little garbled at Berlin before printed. The government lais it’s hands on all which come here, and change some leaves. There is a genuine edition published at Basle, where even the garblings of Berlin are reestablished. I doubt the possibility of getting a copy, so vigilant is the government as to this work. I shall obtain you one if it be possible. As I write all the public news to mr. Jay, I will not repeat it to you.
I have just received the Flora Caroliniana of Walter; a very learned and good work. I am with very sincere esteem and respect Dear Sir, your friend & servt
Th: Jefferson
P. S. I beg you to find sure occasions for the inclosed which are interesting to me.


Title: From James Madison to Thomas Mann Randolph, 13 January 1789
From: Madison, James
To: Randolph, Thomas Mann

Dear Sir,
Louisa, January 13, 1789.
Being informed, that report has ascribed to me many opinions relating to the public trust, for which I am a Candidate in this District, and being unable to rectify the mistakes by personal explanations, I have thought it proper to give written communications of my real opinions, to several of my acquaintances in your, and the other Counties. It has been with reluctance in every instance, that I have taken such a liberty; and in none have I felt more, than in troubling you with the grounds, on which my services are offered. Whatever hopes I may indulge, that my opinions are not materially inconsonant to yours, and that my pretensions, may not in other respects, be disapproved by you, I have no particular warrant for either, that renders an apology unnecessary. The best, perhaps, I can make, is the one which departs least from the truth; that as far as my opinions, and pretensions, may not receive your approbation, I rely on your candor, for a proper interpretation of the motives, with which they are communicated; and that, as far as I may be favored in both respects, with your approbation, you will not only excuse  the liberty I take, but feel sufficient inducements, as opportunities may fall in your way, to set the misinformed part of your county right.
The report, which, I have reason to believe is most injurious, charges me, with being a strenuous advocate for the perfection of the Constitution as it stands, and an inflexible opponent to the change of a single letter. The truth, on the contrary is, that I have ever thought it might be improved in several points, although I never could see the dangers which alarmed many; and what is more, was an unsuccessful advocate in the General Convention, which framed the instrument, for several of the very amendments, since recommended by this, and other States. But, if my own judgment, did not entirely concur in the scheme of revising the work of that Assembly, I should hold myself bound by the strongest motives, to wish for such an alteration of it, as may banish the party heats, which have so long, and so injuriously prevailed.
Whilst the Constitution was unratified, those who viewed the difficulty of uniting the various interests, and prejudices of the States, and the various opinions, and speculations of their political leaders, in any one plan whatever, were naturally led to withstand all previous amendments, as a dangerous road to public confusion. That this policy was warranted by the general state of things in America, is, perhaps, the belief of a greater majority of the people of the United States at this time, than then concurred in it. Whatever opinion may be entertained as to this point, however, it is evident, that the change of situation produced by the establishment of the Constitution, leaves me in common with other friends of the Constitution, free, and consistent in espousing such a revisal of it, as will either make it better in itself; or without making it worse, will make it appear better to those, who now dislike it. It is accordingly, my sincere opinion, and wish, that in order to effect these purposes, the Congress, which is to meet in March, should undertake the salutary work. It is particularly, my opinion, that the clearest, and strongest provision ought to be made, for all those essential rights, which have been thought in danger, such as the rights of conscience, the freedom of the press, trials by jury, exemption from general warrants, &c. I think also, that the periodical increase of the House of Representatives, until it attains a certain number, ought to be expressly provided for, instead of being left to the discretion of the government. There is room likewise in the Judiciary department for amendment. It ought to be so regulated, as to render vexatious, and superfluous appeals, impossible. In a number of other particulars, alterations are eligible either on their own account, or on account of those, who wish for them.
I have said, that I think the amendments ought to be undertaken by the Congress. I prefer that mode, to a General Convention, as most expeditious, most certain (since there are States who will object to the mode of a Convention, without being averse to amendments in themselves) as most safe, and as most œconomical. It will not have escaped you, however, that the question concerning a General Convention, does not depend on the discretion of Congress. If two thirds of the States make application, Congress cannot refuse to call one; if not, Congress have no right to take the step. With the greatest esteem and respect, I am, Dear Sir, Your obedient and most humble servant,
J. Madison, Jun.


Title: From James Madison to George Washington, 14 January 1789
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Orange Jany. 14th. 1789.
Your favor of the 2d. instant with the letters attending it never came to hand till last evening. I have good reason to believe that the delay happened between Alexanda. & Fredg. rather than at or from the latter place. Mr. F. Maury pays particular attention to all letters which arrive there for me, and forwards them to Orange by opportunities which are frequent & safe. I apprehend there will be no impropriety in committing a confidential letter to that channel. As an additional precaution, I will desire him to be particularly attentive to any letter which may have your name on it.
I have heard from two only of the returns from the Electoral districts, the one in favor of Mr. Gilchrist—the other of General Stephens. He succeeded agst. Col: Cabel by a majority of 82 votes. He owes his success to the coalition between the two parties in Spotsylva. My situation is unfavorable for intelligence from the State at large, and therefore I can say little of the prospects as to the Feby. election. I fear, from the vague accounts which circulate, that the federal candidates are too likely to stand in the way of one another. This is not the case however in my district. The field is left entirely to Monroe & myself. The event of our competition will probably depend on the part to be taken by two or three descriptions of people, whose decision is not known, if not yet to be ultimately formed. I have pursued my pretensions much farther than I had premeditated; having not only made great use of epistolary means; but actually visited two Counties, Culpeper & Louisa, and publicly contradicted the erroneous reports propagated agst. me. It has been very industriously inculcated that I am dogmatically attached to the Constitution in every clause, syllable & letter, and therefore not a single amendment will be promoted by my vote, either from conviction or a spirit of accomodation. This is the report most likely to affect the election, and most difficult to be combated with success, within the limited period. There are a number of others however which are auxiliaries to it. With my respectful compliments to Mrs. Washington & the others of your family, I remain Dear Sir, your most Obedt. & Affecte. servt.
Js. Madison Jr.

Stephens
Cabel

109
 71.—Albemarle

   The unanimity in Amherst was produced by a previous declaration as I am told, of Col: Cabel on the subject of the Presidt. which satisfied the federal party. Little attention seems to have been paid any where to the vice-president. Among the bulk of the people, the choice of a President has been regarded as the sole object of the election.

270 —Amherst

15
 66 —Fluvanna

268
 10 —Spotsylva.

113
  4 —Orange

177
 26 —Culpeper

  4
157 —Buckingham

686
604

 82 bal: in favor of Stephens.

P. S. I this moment hear that Mr. Zachy. Johnson is the Elector for his district.


Title: To James Madison from David Jameson, Jr., 14 January 1789
From: Jameson, David, Jr.
To: Madison, James

Dear Sir
Culpr. Ct.house Jany: 14th. 1789
I must hope to meet with your forgivness for the great trouble I urged you to when here last week. Nothing would have induced me to Solicit your Address to the People, But an anxiety to remove some false prejudices which I apprehended were predominating in this County against you; I am sensable your mind is delicate on such occasions, But think the Customs of the times fully justifies the measure: If rectitude was generally prevalent there would be no occasion for exertions of that Nature: But when we find there are evil minds using every measure which Envy or Malice can Suggest to our prejudice it frees us from that restraint we otherwise should feel. Mr. Monroe (through Mr. Strother) has given notice that he will be here on Monday next (Court day) to explain the Constitution to the People and erase any false impressions from their minds—as this is in consequence of what you said when over[,] there are many of your friends think it expedient you should be notified of the appointmt. and Solicit most earnestly that you will favour us with your Company on that day. Genl Stevens prays that you will not fail (if possible to come). I am far from wishing you unnecessary Trouble But am very anxious to see you and think much depends on it, as I am well convinced every advantage will be taken by your Adversaries.
Your being here will prevent false representations of your Sentiment, and extravagant deviations on the minds of the People. I am Dr: Sir Your friend and Obt Servt
D Jameson Jun
P. S. I am informed by good Authority that Mr Early reported that you were against any Amendments whatever, conceiving the Constn. a perfect one, this Capt. Robt. Yancy says he heard him say, and from this I suppose Colo. Green gathered what he informed you of.

D J


Title: To James Madison from Henry Lee, 14 January 1789
From: Lee, Henry
To: Madison, James

My dear sir
Marmion. 14t. Jany 89
I am so far on my return from Richmond to Alexa. at which place Mrs Lee still is. The attack which commenced when you was in Alexa. has been very severe & her condition when I last heard from [her] was very unpromising. It may so happen that I shall be detained in Alexa. during the winter, tho’ my hope & intention is to return soon home.
Have you recovered my packet with the plan of the canal, & when will you find leisure to execute what was concerted between us & forward to me the work.
In Richmond the reports concerning your election were unfavorable to its prosperous issue, but as I have approached upwards accounts have been gradually more pleasing.
In Culpepper we are told Genl. Stevens, Pendleton with many other influential characters are successfully active in your support, & that Strother the champion for your competitor fades in his influence daily.
In Amherst Rose with some few others are struggling to break the weight of the Cabals, & altho they will not be able to give you a majority there, they will add considerably to your poll.
If these things are true I reckon on your election as certain, for which I sincerely pray on principles very opposite to those of personal regard &c.
R. B. Lee will be elected, Page also—Sam Griffin has offered in the Henrico district, Harrison & Miles Selden his adversarys. In Norfolk Matthews & Parker contend, & Theodk. Bland is unrivalled. The last act of the Henryetts was to honor Crt Bullit with a station among our Judges. Yours always
H Lee
A Lee has declined pursuing his election, & I yielded in favor of Page. Cyrus Griffin is published as a candidate for my district, this will injure Page without the chance of assisting himself & should be immediately retracted.


Title: Remarks on the Situation at Great Falls, [post 14] January 1789
From: Madison, James
To:

[post 14] Jany 1789
The importance of the spott at the great Falls of Potowmack, and the value of the property including it appear from the following considerations—
First: The singular fitness of the situation for every species of water works. Merchants Mills, Forges, Slitting & Plating Mills, Saw Mills &c. &c. may be erected here with greater advantages from nature than at any place perhaps within the whole compass of the United States. The spot was long ago marked out by a very sagacious undertaker, for these purposes and has been left unimproved from no other cause than the want of Funds. The addition made to the natural advantages of the place, by the opening of the navigation above, requires no explanation. Wheat, Timber &c. can by that means be collected from an extent of Country which is capable of supplying them in the most ample quantities that can be desired. Iron ore also & mineral coal are distributed along the main River & its branches in great abundance, and can be brought to the Works on the best terms.
Secondly The importance of the situation as a resting place for an extensive commerce. That the commerce through this Channel will be extensive, will be best shewn, if all proof be not superfluous, by a few plain & known facts. The main river is already navigable  miles above the falls. A Boat of  tons burden came down last fall from  with a load of  and the navigation of that part of the river will be ready for general use as soon as the spring season comes on, or at farthest before the ensuing Summer is over. The Shanandoah branch may and probably will be, very soon, made navigable for 150 miles from its mouth which is  miles above the Falls. The South branch is equally capable of the same improvement for 100 Miles from its mouth which is  miles above the falls. There are a number of smaller streams running into the Potowmac above the falls, which are either already navigable, or may easily be made so, not only on the Virginia but also on the Maryland Sides. By means of the latter no small part of the produce now transported by land to Baltimore, from the upper parts of Maryland & the skirts of Penna. will be drawn into the navigation of the Potowmack. The great region of Country embrac’d by these several waters is in general extremely fertile, particularly in the parts through which they immediately flow, is already setled and cultivated, and is found excellently adapted to almost every article which has been raised within this state. But the commerce of the Potomack will not [be] limited to this region, extensive as it is. Another prospect presents itself on the western side of the alleghany mountains. The communication between the atlantic and the western country, can be more easily established through the Potomac than through any other channel. The source of this river lies nearest to the sources of those which run westerdly; its course forms the most direct line with the course of the latter; and having such of its natural obstructions as require locks all at one spot, it has commanding advantages over other channels for attracting the produce & supplying the consumption of great part of the fertile Country on the Ohio and its upper branches, if not on the lakes also and the streams running into them. That the Scite in question will be one of the resting places for this extensive commerce results from several circumstances. 1. Wheat the staple article to be exported through this Channel, will be here most conveniently turned into flour for the purpose. It will therefore be here purchased by the Merchants or rather agents of the Merchants, residing at the Seaport Towns; who will of course, keep at the same place merchandize, in order the more easily to pay for the produce. One side of commerce necessarily attracts the other. The place of buying will always become the place of selling also. There may be other articles, which will undergo some manufactoring process before exportation, and to which the same remark may be applied. But the arrangements established for a principal article will extend themselves to others which would otherwise require or produce them. 2. The navigation above being open two weeks earlier than below the falls, and the Town of Alexandria to which a good road may be made being not more than 17 miles distant there will be a farther inducement to make the falls a place of Exchange for exports and imports. 3. The navigation above being already fitted for use, & that below being not likely to be opened for some time, and on account of its peculiar difficulties, perhaps a long time, the Falls will if proper measures be accelerated, have the habit of Commerce in its favour & might be continued as the Entrepôt from causes not otherwise entirely equal to the effect.
Thirdly. The convenience of the place for a manufactoring Town. This advantage is evident from the remarks already made. In no place can materials or provisions be more cheaply or plentifully assembled. Every branch of manufacture with Iron or other water works, must be particularly favourd at this Spot and as such are numerous and have mutual relations again with many other branches, a better Seat for manufactories can scarcely be fancied. The place is moreover healthy, is surrounded by a fertile and well wooded Country, and admits of an easy supply of every foreign implement & article which manufacturers may stand in need of.


Title: From James Madison to George Nicholas, 23 January 1789
From: Madison, James
To: Nicholas, George

Letter not found. 23 January 1789. Acknowledged in Nicholas to JM, 24 Jan. 1789. Reports prospects for his election. Encloses a copy of his remarks on Jefferson’s draft constitution (Observations on Jefferson’s Draft of a Constitution for Virginia, ca. 15 Oct. 1788 and n.). Requests Nicholas to deliver his letter of 21 Jan. 1789 to John Brown.


Title: From James Madison to a Resident of Spotsylvania County, [27 January] 1789
From: Madison, James
To: A Resident of Spotsylvania County

[27 January 1789]
“The offer of my services to the district, rests on the following grounds: That although I always conceived the constitution might be improved, yet I never could see in it, as it stands, the dangers which have alarmed many respectable citizens; that I held it my duty therefore, whilst the constitution remained unratified, and it was necessary to unite the various opinions, interests and prejudices of the different states, in some one plan, to oppose every previous amendment, as opening a door for endless and dangerous contentions among the states, and giving an opportunity to the secret enemies of the union to promote its dissolution: That the change of circumstances produced by the secure establishment of the plan proposed, leaves me free to espouse such amendments as will, in the most satisfactory manner, guard essential rights, and will render certain vexatious abuses of power impossible: That it is my wish, particularly, to see specific provision made on the subject of the Rights of Conscience, the Freedom of the Press, Trials by Jury, Exemption from General Warrants, &c, to see, effectual provision made also for the periodical increase of the representatives, until the number shall amount to the fullest security on that head, and for prohibiting appeals to the federal court in cases that might be vexatious or superfluous: That there are a variety of other alterations which ought to be inserted, as either eligible in themselves, or as due to those who think them so.
“With regard to the mode of obtaining amendments, I have not withheld my opinion that they ought to be recommended by the first Congress, rather than be pursued by way of a General Convention: 1st, Because the former is the most expeditious mode. If Congress undertake the business, the amendments may be prepared in March next, and immediately submitted to the states; whereas a Convention must be delayed until two-thirds of the states shall have assembled their legislatures, and these shall have applied for one; and after a convention itself shall have been formed, and agreed on amendments, the same formalities will remain, as if the amendments should be proposed by Congress in March next. 2dly, Because it is the most certain mode. There are not a few states who will in no case agree to a convention, and yet have no objection to amendments in themselves. 3dly, Because it is the safest mode. No danger can be apprehended from the deliberations of Congress on the subject. What might result from a Convention, meeting in the present foment of parties, and consisting, as would probably be in part the case, of insidious characters from different quarters of the union, is more than can be foreseen. It is a sufficient objection against the experiment, if the same avowed end can be otherwise answered, that a great part of America is filled with the most serious apprehensions from it. One thing, however, ought not to be disregarded, to wit, that the question relating to a Convention will in no respect depend on the discretion of Congress, and consequently the sentiments of the candidates for that body, on that point, cannot affect their pretensions. If two-thirds of the states apply for a Convention, Congress cannot refuse to call one. If not, Congress have no right to take such a step, but must proceed in the other mode pointed out by the constitution.”