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Appendix VII
Text of a Federalist Speech
Not Delivered in the Maryland Convention
Maryland Journal, 25, 29 July, 1, 5, 8 August 1788
Frederick, July 21, 1788.
Mr. GODDARD,
SIR, Some time ago it was indirectly asserted in your paper, by an
enemy to the federal constitution, that Mr. Lloyd, the short-hand writer
who attended our late convention, was bribed by the majority to sup-
press the speeches of the opposition.' The charge, however vile, was
too contemptible to be honoured by the notice of any member of the
convention. I am, however, sorry that the projected amendments, with
the narrative of the minority, were not exposed as they deserved.2 We
find that the convention of Virginia has agreed to propose amendments
nearly of the same complexion.3 Massachusetts and South-Carolina too,
have proposed a few amendments, but these seem to have flowed from
a spirit of conciliation.4
These measures have, probably, induced opinions that there are faults
in the constitution which absolutely require amendments.
It is always advisable to combat errors in their beginning. I have lately
been favoured with the perusal of a written speech intended to have
been delivered in our convention. It was not delivered, because it was
agreed among the members of the majority not to waste time or pro-
tract the decision by arguments in favour of the system. I conceived the
publication of this speech would tend to promote the cause by its ex-
planation and defence of the constitution, in at least as great a degree
as the publication of Mr. Lloyd's notes would have injured it. I therefore
suggested the idea to the author, who has favoured me with a copy of
the speech corrected, with a permission to insert it in your paper. I
now send it for the purpose, and request you to publish it by parts as
may be convenient.
I am sensible that the subject has lost the charm of novelty, and,
therefore, may not be acceptable to the mass of readers. But I am
equally convinced, from the great variety, as well as contrariety of opin-
ion that has obtained among critics respecting amendments, that the
subject is by no means sufficiently understood.
The antifederalists disagree exceedingly amongst themselves in their
propositions for amendments-their conduct furnishes the strongest
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