From James Madison to Benjamin Harrison, 16 [December] 1779
To Benjamin Harrison
Being notified that the General Assembly have honoured me with a delegation to serve this commonwealth in general Congress, I beg the favour of you Sir to communicate to them my acceptance thereof,3 and my assurances that as far as fidelity and zeal can supply the place of abilities the interests of my Country shall be punctually promoted.
I have the honor to be with great respect Yr. Most Obt Servt.
James Madison Junr.
1. Madison inadvertently wrote “Novr.” The clerk correctly docketed the letter, “Decemr: 16th: 1779.” Pages 397–98 of the manuscript journal of the House of Delegates in the Virginia State Library note on that date: “The Speaker laid before the House a Letter from John Walker Esqr. a member of the Privy Council or Council of State containing his acceptance of the appointment of a Delegates [sic] to represent this Commonwealth to Congress: also a Letter from James Madison junior Esqr. a member of the Privy Council or Council of State to the same effect: which were read and ordered to lie on the table.”
2. Speaker of the House of Delegates.
3. Why JM, who had declined to have his name put in nomination for appointment as a delegate to Congress in June 1779 ( , May 1779, p. 51), was willing to accept six months later is unknown.