Admitting the articles to be good and necessary, it was contended that they were not sufficient for the security of liberty; and the apprehension was avowed that their adoption would quiet the fears of the people, and check the pursuit of those radical alterations which would afford a safe and adequate protection to their rights.

They were at length ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the states, and probably contributed, in some degree, to diminish the jealousies which had been imbibed against the constitution.
[Sidenote: Appointment of the officers of the cabinet, council and of the judges.] The government being completely organized, and a system of revenue established, the important duty of filling the offices which had been created, remained to be performed.

In the execution of this delicate trust, the purest virtue and the most impartial judgment were exercised in selecting the best talents, and the greatest weight of character, which the United States could furnish.

The unmingled patriotism of the motives by which the President was actuated, would receive its clearest demonstration from a view of all his private letters on this subject: and the success of his endeavours is attested by the abilities and reputation which he drew into the public service.
At the head of the department of foreign affairs, since denominated the department of state, he placed Mr.Jefferson.
This gentleman had been bred to the bar, and at an early period of life, had acquired considerable reputation for extensive attainments in the science of politics.

He had been a distinguished member of the second congress, and had been offered a diplomatic appointment, which he had declined.