New York Ratifying Convention. Second Speech of July 2 (John McKesson’s Version), [2 July 1788]
New York Ratifying Convention. Second Speech of July 21
(John Mc Kesson’s Version)2
[Poughkeepsie, New York, July 2, 1788]
Mr. Hamilton—
The Gent says if they are disinclined to a War they will clogg it agreed3—but his Amendment is to encrease their Power
If the President interposes Objections from Local Views it is an evill which can only be remedied by ⅔ds—4
The Gent would have 2/3ds in all Cases—This encreases the Evil—
The fisheries are claimed by France England & the Eastern States
The Navigation of the Mississippi
Our Western Posts—perhaps we could persuade a Majority to assist us to obtain them—but perhaps one third part might not concur—
It should be in our power to enforce a defence and assert the Rights of the Nation—And the Major will should be left open to make the defence and assert the Rights—
When you cannot raise more Money by Taxes and more is necessary you must have recourse to Loans—And must not fetter the Govermt—
John McKesson MS Notes, New-York Historical Society, New York City.
1. H’s second speech was on the same subject as his first (see “New York Ratifying Convention. First Speech of July 2.” John McKesson’s Version).
3. John Lansing, Jr., had spoken after H’s first speech. As reported by McKesson, Lansing said: “It is said that a War may be necessary—and one third may prevent it. If a war necessary the Sentimts. of a large proportion of the People must go with it” (John McKesson MS Notes).
4. H is referring to a statement by Lansing which in the incomplete form presented by McKesson is as follows: “If the President from whatever Quarter has any local Views” (John McKesson MS Notes).