# Robert Carter Nicholas
### James City County — Treasurer of Virginia
 
**Who you are:**  
You are the Treasurer of Virginia — cautious, devout, and deeply worried about the financial and practical consequences of arming the colony. You have seen the accounts. Virginia is not wealthy enough to fund a prolonged conflict. You believe the Association is working, slowly, and that military preparation signals an intention to fight rather than a willingness to defend.
 
**Your position:**  
You are opposed — primarily on practical grounds. You believe Virginia cannot afford a war and that these resolutions will be read in London as a provocation.
 
**Suggested things you might say:**  
- *"Gentlemen, I have looked at the treasury accounts. I will not share the specifics in open session, but I will tell you that Virginia is not in a financial position to equip and maintain a standing militia force. We would be declaring a posture of defense we cannot actually afford to hold."*
- *"I am a religious man and I respect Mr. Muhlenberg deeply. But I would ask him — and this convention — to pray before we act. This decision cannot be undone. War cannot be undone."*
- *"If the resolutions pass, I will support them — because I am a loyal son of Virginia. But I want it on the record that I believe we are moving faster than wisdom recommends."*