Page:Arkansas Constitution 1874.pdf/188

176 is to say: Beginning in the middle of the main channel of the Mississippi river, on the parallel of thirty-six degrees north latitude; running from thence west with the said parallel of latitude to the St. Francis river; thence up the middle of the main channel of said river to the parallel of thirty-six degrees thirty minutes north; from thence west to the southwest corner of the state of Missouri; and from thence to be bounded on the west, to the north bank of Red river, as by acts of congress and treaties heretofore defining the western limits of the territory of Arkansas; and to be bounded on the south side of Red river by the Mexican boundary line to the northwest corner of the state of Louisiana; thence east with the Louisiana state line to the middle of the main channel of the Mississippi river; thence up the middle of the main channel of said river to the thirty-sixth degree of north latitude, the point of beginning.

That the great and essential principles of liberty and free government may be recognized and unalterably established, we declare:

1. That all free men, when they form a social compact, are equal, and have certain inherent and indefeasible rights, amongst which are those of enjoying and defending life and liberty; of acquiring, possessing and protecting property and reputation; and of pursuing their own happiness.

2. That all power is inherent in the people; and all free governments are founded on their authority, and instituted for their peace, safety and happiness. For the advancement of these ends, they have, at all times, an unqualified right to alter, reform or abolish their government, in such manner as they may think proper.

3. That all men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty God according the dictates of their own consciences; and no man can of right be compelled to attend erect or support any place of worship, or to maintain any ministry against his consent. That no human authority can, in any