If Congress saw fit to make new laws, the consequences would fall upon his successor in office, not upon him since he was about to retire.
If Congress made fetters for the Secretary, it might even be that some member of Giles's own party would have to wear them.

Thus, however Giles's latest proposal might be viewed, it was not attractive.

Moreover, it was presented at a time when the House had much more urgent matters to consider.

The country was wild with excitement over the retaliating orders and decrees of Great Britain and France, which subjected American interests to injury from both sides.

Giles and Page appear to have been the only speakers on the resolution when it was taken up for consideration on February 24, 1794, and both disclaimed any intention of reflecting upon Hamilton.