George Mason to Beverley Randolph (March 27, 1790)

Gunston-Hall March 27th. 1790.

SIR

I have this Moment received your Favour of the 25th. enclosing a Commission, appointing me a Senator for this Commonwealth in the Congress of the United States, during the present Recess of the Legislature; which I am under the Necessity of returning; my present State of Health (if I had no other Objection) rendering me unable to discharge the Duties of the Office.

I have been confined by a severe Fit of the Gout, ever since the Second Week in January, with frequent Relapses; the last of which having disabled me from sitting up for several Days, I have little Hopes of being able to go abroad, for a considerable Time to come.

In such a Situation, even if I was now in New York it wou'd not be in my Power to render our Country any essential Service, and I can't reconcile myself to the Idea of receiving the Publick's Money for Nothing. I therefore hope the Executive will be so good to excuse my having declined the Acceptance.

I am thoroughly sensible Sir of the Honour the Governor & Council have done me; and I beg they will be pleased to accept my Thanks for their favourable Opinion of me; of which I shall ever retain the most grateful Remembrance.

I have the Honour to be, with the greatest Respect, your Excellency's Most obdt. Hble Sert.

G Mason