George Mason to Robert Carter (October 5, 1785)

Fairfax County Gunston-Hall Octor. 5th. 1785.

SIR

I take the Liberty of inclosing you a Memorial & Remonstrance to the General Assembly, confided to me by a particular Friend, whose Name I am not at Liberty to mention; and as it accords entirely with my Sentiments upon the Subject (which is a very important one) I have been at the Charge of printing several Copys, to be dispersed in the different Parts of the Country.

You will easily perceive that all manner of Declamation, and Address to the Passions, have been avoided, as unfair in themselves, & improper for such a Subject, and altho' the Remonstrance is long, that Brevity has been aimed at; but the Field is extensive. If upon Consideration, you approve the Reasoning, & the Principles upon which it is founded, I make no Doubt you will endeavour to promote the Subscriptions in your Part of the Country: if they can be compleated, & the Remonstrance sent down to the Assembly, by the first or second Week in Novemr. I presume it will be in good Time I am Sir Your Most obdt. Servt.

G MASON