On the question
N. H. ay. Mas. no. Ct ay. N. J. ay. Pa no. Del. ay. Md ay. Va no. N. C. ay. S. C. no. Geo. ay.
A Committee was then appointed by Ballot to revise the stile of and arrange the articles which had been agreed to by the House. The committee consisted of Mr Johnson, Mr Hamilton, Mr Govr Morris, Mr Madison and Mr King.
Mr Williamson moved that, previous to this work of the Committee the clause relating to the number of the House of Representatives shd be reconsidered for the purpose of increasing the number.
Mr Madison 2ded the Motion.
Mr Sherman opposed it he thought the provision on that subject amply sufficient.
Col: Hamilton expressed himself with great earnestness and anxiety in favor of the motion. He avowed himself a friend to a vigorous Government, but would declare at the same time, that he held it essential that the popular branch of it should be on a broad foundation. He was Seriously of opinion that the House of Representatives was on so narrow a scale as to be really dangerous, and to warrant a jealousy in the people for their liberties. He remarked that the connection between the President & Senate would tend to perpetuate him, by corrupt influence. It was the more necessary on this account that a numerous representation in the other branch of the Legislature should be established.
On the motion of Mr Williamson to reconsider, it was negatived [64]
N. H. no. Mas. no. Ct no. N. J. no. Pa ay. Del. ay. Md ay. Va ay. N. C. ay. S. C. ay. Geo. no.
[ [64] This motion & vote are entered on the Printed journal of the ensuing morning.–Madison's Note.