NY Ratification Convention Debates (June 19, 1788) - New York Journal (June 23, 1788)

"Yesterday the Chancellor made the opening speech. The great objects of which were to shew the defects of the general government, and the necessity, therefore, of a new one—that is, the present proposed one. Confederacies, in general, were reprobated—as instances of weakness and imperfections. The calamities of war were painted in glowing colours, as the result to this state, if they refused to receive the Olive Branch, to wit—the New Constitution.—Our ports were open to the south for invaders—the Savages and the British were on our west; in short, Heaven, armed with the elements, was ready to pour down vengeance; state officers were requested to divest themselves, in the consideration of this business, of their attachment to their dignity and interests,1—after which the Convention adjourned until this morning...."