From John Jay to the President of Congress (Cyrus Griffin), 4 June 1788
To the President of Congress (Cyrus Griffin)
New York 4th. June 1788
Sir
The City and County of New York have elected me one of their Deputies to the State Convention, which is to meet on the 17th. instant at Poughkeepsie to consider and decide on the proposed fœderal Constitution. If it be agreeable to Congress I will attend, if not I will decline the Appointment. Permit me therefore to request their Directions on the Subject. I have the Honor to be with great Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most obt. and hble: Servt.—1
John Jay
His Excellency The President of Congress.—
LS, DNA: PCC, item 80, 3: 524–25 (EJ: 352). Endorsed by clerk: “… Secy. for forn. Affairs— / that he is elected Member / of the State Convention, N. York / June 6th. 1788— / Secy of Congress to take / Order to inform Mr Jay / he has leave of absence / to attend the Convention / if he chuse—”. LbkCs, , 3: 375 (EJ: 2279); DNA: PCC, item 123, 74. JJ was informed that his leave was granted in CT to JJ, 7 June 1788, LbkC, DNA: PCC, Domestic Letters, 3: 375–76 (EJ: 2280); 34: 207 and n.
1. Cyrus Griffin (1748–1810) of Virginia was the last president of the Continental Congress, serving in that office from his election on 22 Jan. 1788 until its dissolution. The last session with a quorum took place 10 Oct. 1788; thereafter, delegates occasionally attended through 2 Mar. 1789. 34: 599–605.