<Li> James Madison, VA "Father of the Constitution" </Li> <Li> James Wilson, PA "unsung hero of Convention" </Li> <P> Although twelve states sent delegations, there were never more than eleven represented in the floor debates, often fewer . State delegations absented themselves at votes different times of day . There was no minimum for a state delegation; one would do . Daily sessions would have thirty members present . Members came and went on public and personal business . The Articles Congress was meeting at the same time, so members would absent themselves to New York City on Congressional business for days and weeks at a time . </P> <P> But the work before them was continuous, even if attendance was not . The Convention resolved itself into a "Committee of the Whole", and could remain so for days . It was informal, votes could be taken and retaken easily, positions could change without prejudice, and importantly, no formal quorum call was required . The nationalists were resolute . As Madison put it, the situation was too serious for despair . They used the same State House, later named Independence Hall, as the Declaration signers . The building setback from the street was still dignified, but the "shaky" steeple was gone . When they adjourned each day, they lived in nearby lodgings, as guests, roomers or renters . They ate supper with one another in town and taverns, "often enough in preparation for tomorrow's meeting ." </P>

It has been argued that the united states constitution came about