RECORDS OF THE FEDERAL CONVENTION 64. Monday McHENRY September Mr Randolph, Mr Mason, and Mr. Gerry who declined giv- ing it the sanction of their names, ? the Convention dissolved itself by an Adjournment sine die <,?' The few alterations and corrections made in these debates which are not in my hand writing, were dictated by me and made in my presence by John C. Payne. James Madison) McHENRY Monday 17 Sepr. ?787. Read the engrossed constitution. Altered the represen- tation in the house of representatives from 40 to thirty thou- sand. Dr. Franklin put a paper into Mr Willsons hand to read containing his reasons for assenting to the constitution. It was plain, insinuating persuasive- and in any event of the system guarded the Doctor's fame. Mr Randolp Mr Mason and Mr Gerry declined signing-- The other members signed-- Being opposed to many parts of the systemImake a remark why I signed it and mean to support it. xsly I distrust my own judgement, especially as it is opposite to the opinion of a' majority of gentlemen whose abilities and patriotism are of the first cast; and as I have had already fre- quent occasions to be convinced that I have not always judged right. ?dly Alterations may be obtained, it being provided that the concurrence of ? of the Congress may at any time intro- duce them. 3dly Comparing the inconveniences and the evils which we labor under and may experience from the present confedera- tion, and the little good we can expect from it- with the pos- sible evils and probable benefits and advantages promised See above note 6, and Appendix A, CVIII, CX, CXXIV, CXXXVII, CLVI, CLXXXIX, CCXLII, CCXLIV, CCCLIX, CCCLXII.
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