The Congressional Veto. Proportional Representation. The Delegates Write Home. Summary and Analysis

On June 8, the delegates take up the congressional veto question once more. Wilson speaks persuasively in favor of the idea, Dickenson agrees. Gunning Bedford opposes it. It would allow larger states to "crush" smaller states and is impractical, he states. The proposal is defeated 7-4. It is interesting to note that two men who were opponents on one issue, Gerry and Dickenson, are here allies. Bowen's suggests early on that the Convention's adoption of a rule allowing questions to be reconsidered, while creating much more discussion and potential for disagreement, also provided the delegates the flexibility to change their own minds. This alignment and realignment of the delegates will contribute to the divisiveness that will appear as the Convention proceeds.

The following day, the fourth...