Page:Debates in the Several State Conventions, v2.djvu/572

556 your sense as to such alterations as you may think proper to be made in the new Constitution.

We remain persuaded that the importance of the alterations proposed, calculated to preserve public liberty by those checks on power which the experience of ages has rendered venerable, and to promote the happiness of the people, by a due attention to their ease and convenience, will justify the steps we have taken, to obtain them, to our constituents and the world.

Having no interest that can distinguish us from the rest of the community, we neither fear censure nor wish applause. Having thus discharged the duty of citizens and trustees of the public, we shall now submit to the people those precautions and securities, which, on mature reflection on this momentous subject, we deem necessary for that safety and happiness.

May the all-wise and omnipotent Being, who made us masters of a fair and fruitful empire, inspire us with wisdom and fortitude to perpetuate to posterity that freedom which we received from our fathers!

Members of the Committee.—William Paca, Samuel Chase, John F. Mercer, Jeremiah T. Chase.

Members of the Convention.—John Love, Charles Ridgely, Edward Cockey, Nathan Cromwell, Charles Ridgely of Wm., Luther Martin, Benjamin Harrison, Wm. Pinckney.