Washington, George (1732-1799) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02437.09340 Author/Creator: Washington, George (1732-1799) Place Written: Mount Vernon, Virginia Type: Manuscript letter Date: 30 March 1788 Pagination: 31 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
Later copy of original letter. Discussing support for the Constitution in various states, notably New Hampshire. Copy made 4 March 1854.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
[Draft]
Mount Vernon 30th. March 1788
My dear Sir;
Your favor of the 10th came duly to hand, and by Mr. Madison I had the pleasure to hear that you had recovered from a severe indisposition, on which event I sincerely congratulate you.
The conduct of the State of New Hampshire has baffled all calculation, and happened extremely mal-apropos for the election of delegates to the Convention of this State; For be the real cause of the adjournment to so late a day, what it may, the anti-federal party with us do not scruple to declare, that, it was done to await the issue of this Convention before it would decide - and add, that if this State should reject it, all those which are to follow will do the same; & consequently, the Constitution cannot obtain, as there will be only eight States in favor of the measure. -
Had it not been for this untoward event, the opposition in this State would have proved entirely unavailing, notwithstanding the unfair conduct (I might have bestowed a harsher epithet without doing injustice) which has been practiced to rouse the fears, and to inflame the passions of the people. - What will be the result now, is difficult [inserted: for me] to say with any degree of certainty, as I have seen but a partial return of the delegates, and not well acquainted with the political sentiments even of those few. - In the Northern part of the State the tide of Sentiment - I know - is generally in favor of the proposed system. - In the Southern part - I am told - it is the reverse. - While the middle, it is said, is pretty much divided. - The Kentucke district will have great weight in deciding this question; and the idea of its becoming an impediment to its seperation, has got hold of them; while no pains is spared to inculcate a belief that the Government proposed will - without scruple or delay - barter away the right of Navigation to the River Mississippi. -
The postponement in New-Hampshire will also, unquestionably, give strength and vigor to the opposition in New York; and possibly, will render Rhode Island more backward than she otherwise would have been if [strike-out] all the New England States had finally decided in favor of the measure.
Mrs. Washington joins in every good wish for Mrs. Knox, yourself & family, with
Dear Sir
Yr. Affecte. Friend & Obedt Sert
Go: Washington
The Honble Genl Knox
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