N. H. no. Mas. no. Ct no. N. J. ay. Pa no. Del. ay. Md ay. Va no. N. C. no. S. C. no. Geo. no.
Mr Govr Morris thought the blank ought to be filled in a twofold way, so as to provide for the event of the ratifying States being contiguous which would render a smaller number sufficient, and the event of their being dispersed, which wd require a greater number for the introduction of the Government.
Mr Sherman observed that the States being now confederated by articles which require unanimity in changes, he thought the ratification in this case of ten States at least ought to be made necessary.
Mr Randolph was for filling the blank with "nine" that being a respectable majority of the whole, and being a number made familiar by the constitution of the existing Congress.
Mr Wilson mentioned "eight" as preferable.
Mr Dickinson asked whether the concurrence of Congress is to be essential to the establishment of the system, whether the refusing States in the Confederacy could be deserted–and whether Congress could concur in contravening the system under which they acted?
Mr Madison, remarked that if the blank should be filled with "seven" "eight," or "nine," the Constitution as it stands might be put in force over the whole body of the people, tho' less than a majority of them should ratify it.
Mr Wilson. As the Constitution stands, the States only which ratify can be bound. We must he said in this case go to the original powers of Society. The House on fire must be extinguished, without a scrupulous regard to ordinary rights.
Mr Butler was in favor of "nine." He revolted at the idea, that one or two States should restrain the rest from consulting their safety.
Mr Carrol moved to fill the blank with "the thirteen," unanimity being necessary to dissolve the existing confederacy which had been unanimously established.