I am in hopes we shall be done in about 20 days. There are several things referred which will take some time.
XCVIII. Thomas Jefferson to John Adams.[1]
Paris Aug. 30. 1787.
I have news from America as late as July 19. nothing had then transpired from the Federal convention. I am sorry they began their deliberations by so abominable a precedent as that of tying up the tongues of their members. nothing can justify this example but the innocence of their intentions, & ignorance of the value of public discussions. I have no doubt that all their other measures will be good & wise. it is really an assembly of demigods. Genl. Washington was of opinion they should not separate till October.
XCIX. George Washington to John Jay.[2]
Philadelphia Sept. 2d 1787
I regret not having had it in my power to visit New York during the adjournment of the Convention, last Month.—not foreseeing with any precission the period at which it was likely to take place or the length of it, I had put my carriage in the hands of a workman to be repaired and had not the means of mooving during the recess but with, or the curtisy of, others.
I thank you for the hints contained in your letter
C. Edmund Randolph to Beverley Randolph.[3]
Phila., Sept. 2, 1787.
I expect to leave this place on Saturday, Seven night.
CI. James Madison to his Father.[4]
Philada. Sepr. 4. 1787.
The Convention has not yet broken up but its Session will probably continue but a short time longer. Its proceedings are still under the injunction of secresy. … As soon as the tie of secresy shall be dissolved I will forward the proceedings of the Convention.
CII. John Collins to Arthur St. Clair, President of Congress.[4]
Newport Septem ye 4th: 1787
I have not as yet lost all hopes of getting a Representation to
