We agreed, in result, that concert in the operations of the several
Colonies was indispensable; and that to produce this, some channel of
correspondence between them must be opened: that, therefore, we would
propose to our House the appointment of a committee of correspondence,
which should be authorized and instructed to write to the Speakers of
the House of Representatives of the several Colonies, recommending the
appointment of similar committees on their part, who, by a communication
of sentiment on the transactions threatening us all, might promote
a harmony of action salutary to all. This was the substance, not
pretending to remember words. We proposed the resolution, and your
father was agreed on to make the motion. He did it the next day, March
the 12th, with great ability, reconciling all to it, not only by
the reasonings, but by the temper and moderation with which it was
developed. It was adopted by a very general vote. Peyton Randolph, some
of us who proposed it, and who else I do not remember, were appointed
of the committee. We immediately despatched letters by expresses, to
the Speakers of all the other Assemblies. I remember that Mr. Carr and
myself, returning home together, and conversing on the subject by the
way, concurred in the conclusion, that that measure must inevitably
beget the meeting of a Congress of Deputies from all the Colonies, for
the purpose of uniting all in the same principles and measures for the
maintenance of our rights.
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