Page:Sketches of the life and character of Patrick Henry.djvu/152

 their situation, may not be apprized of the most certain and speedy method of procurmg the articles before mentioned, one general committee should be appointed, whose business it should be, to procure for such counties as may make application to them, such articles, and so much thereof, as the monies wherewith they shall furnish the said committee, will purchase, after deducting the charges of transportation, and other necessary expenses.”

At the same session of the convention, I find that the alert and enquiring spirit of Mr. Henry laid hold of another instance of royal misrule. Governor Dunmore it seems, by a recent proclamation, had declared, that his majesty had given orders, for all vacant lands within this colony to be put up in lots at public sale; and that the highest bidder for such lots should be the purchaser thereof, and should hold the same, subject to a reservation of one halfpenny per acre, by way of annual quit-rent, and of all mines of gold, silver, and precious stones. These terms were deemed an innovation on the established usage of granting lands in this colony; and this sagacious politician saw in the proceeding, not only an usurpation of power, but a great subduction of the natural wealth of the colony, and the creation, moreover, of a separate band of tenants and retainers, devoted to the vilest measures of the crown. With a view therefore, to defeat this measure, he moved the following resolution, which was adopted:

“Resolved, That a committee be appointed to enquire, whether his majesty may of right advance the terms of granting lands in this colony, and make report thereof to the next general assembly or convention; and that in the mean time it be recommended to all persons