The writings of James Madison, comprising his public papers and his private correspondence, including numerous letters and documents now for the first time printed. |
TO GEORGE WASHINGTON. |
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 | The writings of James Madison, |  |
TO GEORGE WASHINGTON.
The Eastern mail which arrived yesterday brought
me a letter from Mr. King, of which a copy follows:
"Our prospects are gloomy, but hope is not entirely
extinguished. Gerry has not returned to the Convention,
and I think will not again be invited. We
are now thinking of amendments to be submitted
not as a condition of our assent & ratification, but
as the opinion of the Convention subjoined to their
ratification. This scheme may gain a few members
but the issue is doubtful."
In this case as in the last Mr. King's information is
accompanied with letters from other persons on the
spot, which dwell more on the favorable side of the
prospect. His anxiety on the subject may give a
greater activity to his fears than to his hopes; and
he would naturally lean to the cautious side. These
circumstances encourage me to put as favorable a
construction on his letter as it will bear.
A vessel is arrived here from Charleston, which
brings letters that speak with confidence of an
adoption of the fed Government in that State; and
make it very probable that Georgia had actually
adopted it. Some letters from N. Carolina speak
a very equivocal language as to the prospect
there.
The French Packet arrived yesterday. As she has
been out since early in November little news can be
expected by her. I have not yet got my letters if
of no others.
I remain Dr. Sir, with the utmost respect & attachment,
Yr. Affet. Servt.
| The writings of James Madison, | |