Essays on the Constitution of the United States: Published during its Discussion by the People, 1787-1788
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Essays on the Constitution of the United States: Published during its Discussion by the People, 1787-1788
Constitutional history -- United States -- Sources; United States. Constitution
The opposition in your state to the new federal constitution, is an event
surprising to your New England brethren, yet we are not disposed to
criminate a people, which made such gallant efforts in the establishment
of the American Empire. It is the prerogative of freemen to determine
their own form of government, and if this constitution is not addressed to
your interest, if it is not calculated to preserve your freedom and make
you glorious, we wish you not to accept it. We have fought by your side,
we have long been connected in interest, and with many of you by
consanguinity, and wish that you may share with us in all the benefits of
a great and free empire. Brethren who differ in their opinions how a
common interest may be best governed, ought to deliberate with coolness,
and not wantonly accuse each other, either of folly or design.
Massachusetts and Connecticut have decidedly judged the new government
well calculated not only for the whole but for the northern states. Either
you or these states have judged wrong. Your interests are similar to
theirs, and cannot be separated from them without counteracting nature.
If there be any one state more interested than the others in the adoption
of this system, it is New Hampshire. Your local situation, which can never
be altered, is a solemn argument in its favor. Tho’ separated from the
government of Britain at no less price than the blood of your bravest
sons, you border on her dominions. She is your enemy, and wishes nothing
more than your submission to her laws, and to the will of her proud
servants.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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