Providence, 3d Nov., 1788.
Dear Sir:
Your favor of 6th ulto., was duly received. I thought proper to
postpone replying to it till after the session of the General Assembly
should be over, which terminated on Saturday night last, in order that
I might have it in my power to give you, with more certainty, the
proceedings of the Legislature, on the subject of the New Constitution.
The minority, both in of the House, took unwearied pains during the
session, to procure a Convention in the legal mode pointed out for
considering the New Constitution; but, sir, it proved, as heretofore,
an unsuccessful attempt; for Mr. Hazard, who is an implacable and
powerful enemy to the new system, and the leading character in all
the vile politics carrying on in this _devoted_ State, had so well
prepared the majority, that when the question was put, whether this
State should appoint a Convention or not, the question was lost nearly
three to one; fifteen in favor of the motion and forty-four against it.
After which (late on Saturday night) Mr. Hazard moved that a vote be
passed, for printing copies of the circular letter from the Convention
of New-York, to be distributed throughout this State, and submitting
to the people at large, the propriety of appointing delegates to
meet a _proposed_ Convention, for considering amendments, agreeably
to the recommendations of said circular letter. The vote being put,
after much debate, it was carried in favor of the measure by three to
one, notwithstanding every exertion of the minority, to prevent the
adoption of so novel and unprecedented a proceeding. It was urged,
and with truth, that should a Convention finally meet for the purpose
of amending the Constitution, that it would be composed entirely of
the adopting States; and, as such, this State could not, upon any
principles of right, expect to be admitted to a seat in that Honorable
Body, as we so obstinately (and with our eyes open) have refused,
and still neglect to accede to the new system. But, sir, reason and
argument will avail nothing with those wicked and designing opposers
to a just and honorable Federal Government. The Assembly have made an
adjournment to the last Monday in December next, in an expectation
to hear the report from the respective towns. Mr. Hazard, and a Col.
John Gardener (who is entirely under the influence of Mr. Hazard’s
politics), are ordered by the Assembly to go on from this State, and
take their seats in Congress, as soon as they can leave home; so that
in a short time you will have those two antis to deal with.
I am, with sincere esteem,
Sir,
Your obedient humble serv’t,
Jeremiah Olney.
Col. Alexander Hamilton.