her timbers remained until
1901 and her hulk was visible at low tide. The widening of the channel
caused the removal of what remained of her hulk. Pieces are preserved at
the Museum of Independence Hall, where it is labeled as having been
commanded by John Paul Jones. Another portion is at the American
Catholic Historical Society of Philadelphia. There also may be seen the
card table and soup tureen of the Commodore, deposited by the compiler
of this record.

CHAPTER XVI.

AFTER THE WAR BARRY SECURES THE ADOPTION OF THE NEW FEDERAL
CONSTITUTION BY FORCING A QUORUM OF THE ASSEMBLY--IS SUED--GOES TO
CHINA IN COMMAND OF THE "ASIA," A MERCHANT VESSEL.

After the sale of the "Alliance," Captain Barry "rested from his
labors," but yet concerned about many things pertaining to his friends
and their interests. We find him recommending subordinate officers for
positions in the merchant service, in petitioning Congress that officers
of the Navy be put on "a footing similar to their brother officers of
the land service, as to half-pay or commutation and lands according to
their ranks, as they were the only class of officers who remain
neglected and totally unprovided for." He referred evidently to his own
experience when he said, "few of the ships belonging to the United
States were ever suffered to cruise, but were sent on private service
and ordered not to go out of their way, but to keep clear of all vessels
whatever and that such as were permitted had particular cruising grounds
pointed out to them, which frequently ensured them severe blows and but
few prizes."

When in 1787 a Federal convention had been held in Philadelphia to
formulate a Constitution by which the States could form "a more perfect
union" and "promote domestic tranquility," the present Constitution of
our country was formulated by the convention for ratification by the
several States. In each State controversy and discussion arose over the
consideration of the advisability of adopting it as the supreme law of
the land.

The Confederation had proven unsuited to the needs of the country. So a
new plan of government was necessary. On September 17th, the day the
Convention had adopted the Constitution, the Pennsylvania members of the
Convention at once notified the Assembly of the State, then in session
at the Hall of Independence, that they were ready to report to the
Assembly. The next morning "the honorable delegates, led by Benjamin
F