Page:The Records of the Federal Convention of 1787 Volume 2.djvu/673

 RECORD8 OF THE FEDERAL CONVENTION 667 LETTER TO CONGRESS several States as to their situation, extent, habits, and par- ticular interests. In all our deliberations on this subject we kept steadily in our view, that which appears to us the greatest interest of every true American, the consolidation of our Union, in which is involved our prosperity, felicity, safety, perhaps our national existence. This important consideration, seriously and deeply impressed on our minds, led each State in the Convention to be less rigid on points of inferior magnitude, than might have been otherwise expected; and thus the Constitution, which we now present, is the result of a spirit of amity, and of that mutual deference and concession which the peculiarity of our political situation rendered indispensable. That it will meet the full and entire approbation of every State is not perhaps to he expected; but each will doubtless consider, that had her interest alone been consulted, the con- sequences might have been particularly disagreeable or in- jurious to others; that it is liable to as few exceptions as could reasonably have been expected, we hope' and believe; that it may promote the lasting welfare of that country so dear to us all, and secure her freedom and happiness, is our most ardent wish. With great respect, We have the honor to be. SIR, Your EXC.L,.V. NC�'S most Obedient and humble Servants, GEORGE WASHINGTON, PRESIDENT. By unanimous Order of the CONVENTION. HIS EXCELLENCY The President o{ Congress.

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