ose who
are raised by the free suffrages of the people, to sustain powers which
are absolutely necessary for public safety. Why were they elevated but for
a general reputation of wisdom and integrity; and why should they be
distrusted, until by ignorance or some base action they have forfeited a
right to our confidence?

To fear a general government or energetic principles least it should
create tyrants, when without such a government all have an opportunity to
become tyrants and avoid punishment, is fearing the possibility of one act
of oppression, more than the real exercise of a thousand. But in the
present case, men who have lucrative and influential state offices, if
they act from principles of self-interest, will be tempted to oppose an
alteration, which would doubtless be beneficial to the people. To sink
from a controlment of finance, or any other great department of the state,
thro' want of ability or opportunity to act a part in the federal system,
must be a terrifying consideration. Believe not those who insinuate that
this is a scheme of great men to grasp more power. The temptation is on
the other side. Those in great offices never wish to hazard their places
by such a change. This is the scheme of the people, and those high and
worthy characters who in obedience to the public voice offer the proposed
amendment of our federal constitution thus esteemed it, or they would have
determined state Conventions as the tribunal of ultimate decision. This is
the last opportunity you may have to adopt a government which gives all
protection to personal liberty, and at the same time promises fair to
afford you all the advantages of a sovereign empire. While you deliberate
with coolness, be not duped by the artful surmises of such as from their
own interest or prejudice are blind to the public good.

A LANDHOLDER.

A Landholder, III.

The Connecticut Courant, (Number 1191)

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1787.

TO THE HOLDERS AND TILLERS OF LAND.

_Gentlemen_,

When we rushed to arms for preventing British usurpation, liberty was the
argument of every tongue.

This word would open all the resources of the country and draw out a
brigade of militia rapidly as the most decisive orders of a despotic
government. Liberty is a word which, according as it is used, comprehends
the most good and the most evil of any in the world. Justly understood it
is sacred next to those which we appropriate in divine adoration; but i