Huntington. Admit there is danger from Virginia, does it follow that Congress has a right to limit her bounds? The consequence is, not to enter into confederation. But as to the question of right, we all unite against mutilating charters. I can't agree to the principle. We are a spectacle to all Europe. I am not so much alarmed at the danger from Virginia as some are ; my fears are not alarmed ; they have acted as noble a part as any. I doubt not the wisdom of Virginia will limit themselves. A man s right does not cease to be a right, because it is large ; the question of right must be determined by the principles of the common law.
Stone. This argument is taken up upon very wrong ground. It is considered as if we were voting away the territory of particular Colonies, and gentlemen work themselves up into warmth upon that supposition. Suppose Virginia should. The small Colonies have a right to happiness and security ; they would have no safety if the great Colonies were not limited. We shall grant lands, in small quantities, without rent or tribute or purchase-money. It is said that Virginia is attacked on every side. Is it meant that Virginia shall sell the lands for their own emolument? All the Colonies have defended these lands against the King of Britain, and at the expense of all. Does Virginia intend to establish quit rents? I don't mean that the United States shall sell them, to get money by them.
Jefferson. I protest against the right of Congress to decide upon the right of Virginia. Virginia has released all claims to the land settled by Maryland, &c.
John Adams, Works (edited by Charles Francis Adams, Boston, 1850), II, 496-502.
190. Falling-off of the Character of Congress (1778)
BY COLONEL ALEXANDER HAMILTON
For Hamilton, see above, No. 173.— Bibliography of Congress: Curtis, History of the Constitution, I, 125-131; Charming and Hart, Guide, §§ 136, 142.
[February 13 1778.] THERE is a matter, which often obtrudes itself upon my mind, and which requires the attention of every person of sense and influence among us ; I mean
