Nathaniel Gorham to Caleb Davis (May 22, 1787)

N. York May 22d 1787 . . . Upon examining our Commission for the Convention we find that three are required as the number to represent the state. And no Gentleman having come forward but Mr. King and myself he is gone to Philadelphia and I continued here in order if possible to keep a Congress. I have been daily in hope of seeing Mr. Dana or Mr. Gerry or both. However as Congress cannot be kept up at present I shall set off for Phila. tomorrow or next day in hopes that some of the other Gentm. will soon be after me. The business of the Convention is of the last importance for if the meeting or its doings should prove abortive the present phantom of a Government must soon expire. If those Gentm. have not set off do speak to them and let them know that by the Commission three are necessary. I am extreamly desirous of attending the Legislature at least some part of the next Session. I have therefore to beg you to get a resolve impowering two to represent the State in the convention and if any of the Gentm. in the present Commission cannot attend to get others appointed in their room. I must beg your pardon for all this trouble and remain your Friend and Humble Servant Nathaniel Gorham