On September 17, 1787, Benjamin Franklin addressed the members of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia to put his “opinions” aside for the “greater good.” He states, in his stage of life, he is older and more experienced than most of the delegates, which gives him the opportunity to see both sides of important issues, and to modify his stance. Although he sees flaws in the Constitution being presented at the Convention, he realizes it is important for the general population, and other nations, to see a united front as the Constitution is presented to the world. He felt the country needed a central government, and based on his vast experience he sees flaws, but he is not sure that those flaws can be changed due to the disparity of the constituents being represented by the attendees of the convention. The Constitution could be the best attempt for the times, and he agrees to put his differences aside so that the United States can have a strong central government to move forward on the world stage.
Thus I consent, Sir, to this Constitution because I expect no better, and because I am not sure, that it is not the best. The opinions I have had of its errors, I sacrifice to the public good--I have never whispered a syllable of them abroad--Within these walls they were born, and here they shall die--
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