Page:The Records of the Federal Convention of 1787 Volume 2.djvu/413

 RECORDS OF THE FEDERAL CONVENTION zO 7 Frida McHENR.Y l ugust 4 that the president be elected by the people 6 3 states affirm -- 7 neg. On what respects his ineligibility Gov. Morris observed. That in the strength of the Executive would be found the strength of America. Ineligibility operates to weaken or destroy the constitution. The president will have no interest beyond his period of service. He will for peace and emolument to himself and friends agree to acts that will encrease the power and agrandize the bodies which elect him. The legislature will swallow up the whole powers of the constitution; but to do this effectuall 7 they must possess the Executive. This will lead them to tempt him, and the short- ness of his reign will subject him to be tempted and overcome. The legislature has great and various appointments in their power. This will create them an extensive influence which may be so used as to put it out of the power of the Executive to prevent them from arriving at supremacy. On the other hand give the Executive a chance of being re-chosen and he will hold his prerogatives with all possible tenaciousness. postponed the question. Proceeded, and made some amendments to the z sect. Adjourned when the question was going to be put whether the legislature might enable the State Executives or legis- latures to appoint officers to certain offices? G According to the Journal, Detail of Ayes and Noes and Madison, this question was the first one upon Article X for which a vote was taken, and the vote is given as Ayes, 21 noes, 9. ? Both the Journal and Madison report this motion a8 negatived, but McHenr is probably correct. See August 25, note Ig.

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