Mr Govr Morris thought the assumption of their engagements might as well be omitted; and that Congs ought not to be continued till all the States should adopt the reform; since it may become expedient to give effect to it whenever a certain number of States shall adopt it.
Mr Madison the clause can mean nothing more than that provision ought to be made for preventing an interregnum; which must exist in the interval between the adoption of the New Govt and the commencement of its operation, if the old Govt should cease on the first of these events.
Mr Wilson did not entirely approve of the manner in which the clause relating to the engagements of Congs was expressed; but he thought some provision on the subject would be proper in order to prevent any suspicion that the obligations of the Confederacy might be dissolved along with the Governt under which they were contracted.
On the question on the 1st part—relating to the continuance of Congs.
Mas. no. Cont no. Pa no. Del. no. Md no. Va ay. N. C. ay. S. C.[138] ay. Geo. no.
[ [138] In the printed Journal, S. Carolina—no. Note in Madison'shand.
The 2d part as to completion of their engagements, disagd to, nem. con.
Resol. 16. "That a Republican Constitution & its existing laws ought to be guaranteed to each State by the U. States."
Mr Govr Morris, thought the Resol: very objectionable. He should be very unwilling that such laws as exist in R. Island should be guaranteed.
Mr Wilson. The object is merely to secure the States agst dangerous commotions, insurrections and rebellions.