### April 26 April 26th was a momentous day in my life. On this day in 1787, I had the pleasure of attending the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. My work was instrumental in creating a framework for a new government and implementing the laws of our nation. Little did I know that day would be remembered for something far more whimsical: it was on this day that I wrote an ode to a fly called “The Monarch,” which was published in the Pennsylvania Packet. The conceit of the poem was that the tiny fly was an unwitting witness to the great events unfolding at the Convention. All present were greatly amused, and it was considered one of the first pieces of “light” American literature. While my name is most often associated with politics and finance, I hope that by penning this little ditty, I will also be remembered for my sense of humor! _"What though art thou, little vassal? Say, Has Fate dispos'd thy errand here? Oh, tell me why thy wings display, On this important day?"_