Assembly Proceedings, Mar. 10, 1697/8-Apr. 4, 1698. 115

Heads of proposalls drawn up by his Matys hon^ble Councill
for the better regulating and settling the Militia of this his
Matys: province of Maryland, with the reasons induceing
thereto, Viz^t
In the first place It is concluded that there is a necessity of
a settled Militia in this his Matys province as it appeares is
done in all his Matys dominions.
Since the former Act of this province seems grieveous and
burthensome to the poorer sorte of people here inhabiting who
bear the weight and charge of the Militia as now it plainly
appears so that they lye under an obligation to defend the
Interest of the Rich and theire Estates the Rich being wholly
unconcerned either in the charge or trouble.
Therefore it is proposed that six Tythables be thought fitt
to furnish out a foot Soldier and nine a horseman.
That the foot Soldier be accoutred with a musquett, Car-
touch Box and Baggonett.
That the Trooper be accoutred with a Case of pistolls and
holsters, a Carabine a Cartouch box and hanger and to have
a horse and Curbe bridle.

Original
Journal.

That the footmen that is sent to muster be allowed 20^l
tobacco a day and the horsemen thirty.
That the Severall Troopes and Companys be exercised four
times a year or oftener, at the discretion of the officers.
All which proposalls for the better Settleing the Militia are
thought necessary clauses and additions as to enforce the due
putting in execution of the Law and for the better secureing
the publick arms and Amunition. Signed by order

Hen: Denton clk: Councill.

Whereupon put to the Question if the said proposall shall
be referred to the Consideration of the next Sessions of
Assembly or not? and Carried in the negative.

By his Ex^cy the Gov^r and Councill in Assembly
March 26^th 1698.

In reply to the houses answer ab^t transmitting the Comittee
of aggrievances Iournall hither for pusall of this board his
Ex^cy is pleased positively to declare that the house have no
right to insist upon anything as matter of Custom in this
Country which is not agreeable to the Lawes of England, and
this board do think themselves as much concerned and to have
as great reason to inspect and see what the Grievances of the
Country are as well as the house of delegates.
Signed by order
Hen: Denton Clk: Councill

p. 193