[1] It is titled "Method of Guarding Against the Encroachments of Any One Department of Government by Appealing to the People Through a Convention".

[2] In this essay, Madison, writing as Publius, confronts directly some of the ideas raised by Thomas Jefferson in his Notes on the State of Virginia.

"[3] Madison begins by agreeing that there is logic to the idea of allowing the people to appeal through the use of a convention, but then explains that it would be unworkable and contradictory to the proposed Constitution.

[6] Madison then reminds his audience that it is a moment of public passion that has caused the drafters to write the proposed United States Constitution, and that it would be impractical to provide the opportunity for constant change once it is ratified.

"[9] Madison also contended for government transparency, claiming that "road to the decision of the people ought to be marked out and kept open."