George Mason to William Ramsay (July 11, 1775)

Gunston Hall, July 11, 1775

DEAR SIR:

My friend Mr. Massey sent me yesterday the advertisement for a meeting of the freeholders to-morrow, with a letter from you on the subject; which was the first notice of the county having any intention of requiring my attending the Convention at Richmond next week as one of its representatives. And though ambition has no longer charms for me I am extremely sensible of the obligation I am under to you and the other gentlemen of Alexandria for your favorable opinion. I have considered the matter with the best judgment I am capable of, and am sincerely concerned that my situation in life will not permit me to accept the appointment.

I entreat you, Sir, to reflect on the duty I owe to a poor little helpless family of orphans to whom I now must act the part of father and mother both, and how incompatible such an office would be with the daily attention they require. This I will not enlarge on. Your own feelings will best explain it; and I rely on your friendship to excuse me to the gentlemen of the committee and my other friends. I am dear Sir, &c.,

G. MASON