Page:Joseph Story, Commentaries on the Constitution of the United States (1st ed, 1833, vol I).djvu/148

 108 repugnant, but, as near as may be, agreeable unto the laws and statutes of this our kingdom of England;" which laws were, however, to be subject to the approbation or dissent of the crown. The governor with the consent of the council was to erect courts of justice; to appoint judges and other officers; to collate to churches and benefices; and to command the military force. Liberty of conscience was allowed to all persons but Papists.

§ 120 From this time to the American Revolution the province was governed without any charter under royal commissions, substantially in the manner pointed out in the first. The people always strenuously contended for the rights and privileges guaranteed to them by the former concessions; and many struggles occurred from time to time between their representatives, and the royal governors on this subject.