The inefficiency of Congress and its lack of influence were evident.

Like the disorders in Rhode Island, Shays' Rebellion in Massachusetts helped to bring about a reaction and strengthened the conservative movement for reform.
These untoward happenings, however, were only symptoms: the causes of the trouble lay far deeper.

This fact was recognized even in Rhode Island, for at least one of the conventions had passed resolutions declaring that, in considering the condition of the whole country, what particularly concerned them was the condition of trade.

Paradoxical as it may seem, the trade and commerce of the country were already on the upward grade and prosperity was actually returning.

But prosperity is usually a process of slow growth and is seldom recognized by the community at large until it is well established.