The Records of the Federal Convention of 1787/Volume 3/Appendix A/CXVI

by Max Farrand

ⅭⅩⅥ. James McHenry: Anecdotes.^[1]

18—

A lady asked Dr. Franklin Well Doctor what have we got a republic or a monarchy—A republic replied the Doctor if you can keep it.*

• The lady here aluded to was Mrs. Powel of Philada.

Mr. Martin said one day in company with Mr Jenifer speaking of the system before Convention—

I’ll be hanged if ever the people of Maryland agree to it. I advise you said Mr Jenifer to stay in Philadelphia lest you should be hanged.

1. American Historical Review, XI, 618. The date of this is uncertain.