2454. ELECTIONS (Presidential, 1796), A Pseudo-President and.—
I observe doubts are still expressed as to the validity of the
Vermont election. Surely, in so great a case,
substance, and not form, should prevail. I
cannot suppose that the Vermont constitution
has been strict in requiring particular forms of
expressing the legislative will. As far as my
disclaimer may have any effect, I pray you to
declare it on every occasion, foreseen or not
foreseen by me, in favor of the choice of the
people substantially expressed, and to prevent
the phenomenon of a Pseudo-President at so
early a day.—
To James Madison.
Ford ed., vii, 105.
(M.
January 16, 1797)
