Gov. RANDOLPH. This body must act with firmness. They may possibly always sit—perhaps to aid the executive. The state governments will always attempt to counteract the general government. They ought to go out in classes. Therefore I move that they go out of office in fixed proportions of time, instead of the words "seven years."
Mr. READ moved (though not seconded) that they ought to continue in office during good behavior.
Mr. WILLIAMSON moved that they remain in office for six years.
Mr. PINCKNEY. I am for four years. Longer time would give them too great attachment to the states where the general government may reside. They may be induced, from the proposed length of time, to sell their estates, and become inhabitants near the seat of government.
Mr. MADISON. We are proceeding in the same manner that was done when the Confederation was first formed. Its original draft was excellent, but in its progress and completion it became so insufficient as to give rise to the present Convention. By the vote already taken, will not the temper of the state legislatures transfuse itself into the Senate? Do we create a free government?
Question on Governor Randolph's motion—7 ayes, 3 noes, 1 divided.
Motion to fix the term of service at six years—5 ayes, 5 noes, 1 divided.
Do. for five years—5 ayes, 5 noes, 1 divided.
The question for four years was not put; and the Convention adjourned till to-morrow morning.
Tuesday, June 26, 1787.
Met pursuant to adjournment. Present, eleven states.
Mr. GORHAM. My motion for four years' continuance was not put yesterday. I am still of opinion that classes will be necessary. but I would alter the time. I therefore move that the senators be elected for six years, and that the rotation be triennial.
Mr. PINCKNEY. I oppose the time, because of too long a continuance. The members will, by this means, be too long separated from their constituents, and will imbibe attachments different from that of the state; nor is then; any danger that members, by a shorter duration of office.
