In fact, with the exception of John Adams, Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, and Thomas Jefferson, the strongest men in political life were in the Federal Convention.

Never in the history of the world have so many great political leaders, learned students of politics, and shrewd business men gathered together.

The result of their labors was the most marvelous product of political wisdom that the world has ever seen.
[Illustration: THE OLD STATE HOUSE, PHILADELPHIA.

Meeting place of the Continental Congress and of the Federal Convention--now called Independence Hall.] [Sidenote: The Virginia plan.] [Sidenote: Pinckney's plan.] [Sidenote: Vote for a national government.] 181.

Plans for a National Government .-- As soon as the Convention was in working order, Governor Randolph of Virginia presented Madison's plan for a "national" government.