A history of the American people, Vol. 2 [of 5] : $b Colonies and nationWilson, Woodrow
History
A history of the American people, Vol. 2 [of 5] : $b Colonies and nation
Wilson, Woodrow
United States -- History
The quorum seems large, but it was thought it would not be
satisfactory to the colonies in general, to have matters of
importance to the whole transacted by a smaller number, or even
by this number of twenty-five, unless there were among them one
at least from a majority of the colonies, because otherwise,
the whole quorum being made up of members from three or four
colonies at one end of the union, something might be done
that would not be equal with respect to the rest, and thence
dissatisfaction and discords might rise to the prejudice of the
whole.
LAWS TO BE TRANSMITTED.
That the laws made by them for the purposes aforesaid shall not be
repugnant, but, as near as may be, agreeable to the laws of England, and
shall be transmitted to the King in Council for approbation, as soon as
may be after their passing; and if not disapproved within three years
after presentation, to remain in force.
This was thought necessary for the satisfaction of the crown,
to preserve the connection of the parts of the British empire
with the whole, of the members with the head, and to induce
greater care and circumspection in making of the laws, that
they be good in themselves and for the general benefit.
DEATH OF THE PRESIDENT-GENERAL.
That, in case of the death of the President-General, the Speaker of the
Grand Council for the time being shall succeed, and be vested with the
same powers and authorities, to continue till the King’s pleasure be
known.
It might be better, perhaps, as was said before, if the crown
appointed a vice-president, to take place on the death or
absence of the president-general; for so we should be more sure
of a suitable person at the head of the colonies. On the death
or absence of both, the speaker to take place (or rather the
eldest King’s governor) till his Majesty’s pleasure be known.
OFFICERS, HOW APPOINTED.
That all military commission officers, whether for land or sea service,
to act under this general constitution, shall be nominated by the
President-General; but the approbation of the Grand Council is to
be obtained, before they receive their commissions. And all civil
officers are to be nominated by the Grand Council, and to receive the
President-General’s approbation before they officiate.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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