[1109] Ib.
[1110] Washington to Madison, Jan. 10, 1788; Writings: Ford, xi, 208.
CHAPTER X
IN THE GREAT CONVENTION
There is no alternative between the adoption of it [the Constitution] and anarchy. (Washington.)
I look on that paper as the most fatal plan that could possibly be conceived to enslave a free people. (Henry.)
More, much more, went forward in the Virginia struggle than appeared upon the surface. Noble as was the epochal debate in Virginia's Constitutional Convention, it was not so influential on votes of the members as were other methods[1111] employed by both sides. Very practical politicians, indeed, were these contending moulders of destiny.
Having in mind the Pennsylvania storm; with the picture before them of the delicate and skillful piloting by which alone the Constitution had escaped the rocks in the tempestuous Massachusetts seas; with the hurricane gathering in New York and its low thunders heard even from States that had ratified—the Virginia Constitutionalists took no chances, neglected no precaution. Throughout the country the Constitutionalists were now acting with disciplined dispatch.