Page:Revised Statutes of the State of North Carolina - Volume 1.djvu/28

Rh 4. That as we now acknowledge the existence and control of no law or legal officer, civil or military, within this county, we do hereby ordain and adopt as a rule of life, all, each and every of our former laws,—wherein, nevertheless, the crown of Great Britain never can be considered as holding rights, privileges, immunities or authority therein.

5. That it is further decreed, that all, each and every military officer in this county, is hereby reinstated in his former command and authority, he acting conformably to these regulations. And that every member present, of this delegation, shall henceforth be a civil officer, viz. a justice of the peace, in the character of a "committee-man," to issue process, hear and determine all matters of controversy, according to said adopted laws, and to preserve peace, union and harmony in said county, and to use every exertion to spread the love of country and fire of freedom throughout America, until a more general and organized government be established in this province.

After discussing the foregoing resolves, and arranging bylaws and regulations for the government of a standing committee of public safety, who were selected from these delegates, the whole proceedings were unanimously adopted and signed. A select committee was then appointed to draw a more full and definite statement of grievances, and a more formal declaration of independence. The delegation then adjourned about 2 o'clock, A. M., May 20.