Elbridge Gerry to John Adams, March 4, 1789

New York 4 th March 1789

My dear Friend

I find on enquiry that you are elected Vice-president, having three or four times the number of votes of any other candidate. Maryland threw away their votes on Col o Harrison & South Carolina on Governor Rutledge, being with some other states which were not unanimous for you, apprehensive that this was a necessary step to prevent your election to the chair— in this point they were mistaken, for the president as I am informed from pretty good authority, has an unanimous vote. it is the universal wish of all that I have conferred with, & indeed their expectation, that both General Washington & yourself will accept: & should either refuse it will have a very disagreable effect. the members present met to day in the City Hall, there being about eleven Senators & thirteen Representatives, & not constituting a quorum in either house they adjourned till tomorrow.— 1

M rs Gerry & the ladies join me in sincere regards to yourself, your lady Col o & M rs Smith & be assured / I remain with the highest respect / your friend & very hum l / sert

E Gerry