ously adopted:--

_Resolved_, That the observance of Sunday as a day of religious
worship and instruction is eminently adapted to extend the
knowledge and influence of truth and virtue, and thus to improve
the character and increase the happiness of individuals and of
the community.

_Resolved_, That under no circumstances has religion excited such
general interest, as when, not rendered odious by legal
restraints, it has addressed its claims for support to the
understandings and consciences of men.

_Resolved_, That a "_system of regulations_" for the purpose of
enforcing religious observances is opposed to the principles of
religious liberty and to our form of civil government; and it is
to be feared that any attempts to introduce such regulations will
re-act in consequences detrimental to the interests which it may
have been intended to promote.

_Resolved_, That neither the precepts of Christianity nor the
design of religious observances are incompatible with the prompt
and faithful discharge of the various duties which belong to our
social and civil relations; and the urgency of such duties may
frequently render it of importance to every individual to receive
or transmit intelligence with the least possible delay.

_Resolved_, That for the necessary accommodation of the
Government and citizens of this widely extended country, an
arrangement of the mails, by which letters and packages are
forwarded and delivered with the utmost despatch and safety, has
been for a great length of time maintained under the vigilant
superintendence of the Postmaster General; and such arrangement,
while it is productive of innumerable advantages to the
Government and to the citizens, is not allowed to interfere with
the public religious services on Sunday.[B]

_Resolved_, That any change in the present arrangement of the
mails which shall have the effect to subject to increased delay
and hazard the communication between distant parts of the country
is impolitic; and if authorized by Congress for the sole purpose
of enforcing religious observances, will be an exercise of power
for the accomplishment of an object not recognized by the
Constitution, and contrary to its spirit and the intentions of
its framers.

_Resolved_, That if Congress