Charles Pinckney to Benjamin Guerard

I have the pleasure to inform your Excellency that Congress assembled at this place on Monday, & on Tuesday proceeded to the election of a President when the Honorable Mr. Richard Henry Lee of Virginia was appointed. We have now nine States on the floor, & a Gentleman from each of the States of New Hampshire & Connecticut attending. The Delegates from the States of New York & Maryland are hourly expected, so that in the course of the Month we have no doubt of having a very full & compleat representation of the Union.

From the appearance of things I am of opinion we shall enter upon the many & important Affairs before us with Unanimity & Decision. There seems to be a determined spirit in the present Congress to adopt such measures as will most probably tend to support the dignity & credit of the Continent - in doing this I trust the present Members from So. Carolina will exert themselves as far as their Abilities will enable them, & as they perfectly agree in sentiment upon the principles of every important question that may probably be agitated during the present Session, I think I may venture to assure your Excellency that while they attentively guard the rights of the State they represent, they will do every thing in their power to promote the general Welfare, convinced that the Commerce & Consequence of the several States must eventually depend on the dignity & Stability of the fœderal Government.

Your Excellency may be assured of receiving such official Communications from time to time, as it is our duty to make.

I remain with Respect, Your Excellency's Most obedt. humble servant,

(signed) Charles Pinckney