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ed, but subsequently reconsidered. Another amendment
was proposed and rejected, whereupon Mr. Stoddert's
amendment was again adopted.
No further amendments being proposed, section 18 was
read, as follows:
"It shall be the duty of the Governor semi-annually and
oftener to examine the bank books, account books and
official proceedings of the Treasurer and Comptroller of
the State, on their oaths. "
Mr. Barry did not see how the Governor could examine
bank books on their oaths, and, to make the section more
euphonious, offered a substitute, as follows:
"It shall be the duty of the Governor semi-annually and
oftener to examine, under oath, the Treasurer and Comp-
troller of the State in all matters pertaining to their re-
spective offices, and inspect and review the bank and
other account books. "
Mr. Brown thought this provision could not be carried
out unless a Governor was always elected who is a com-
petent bookkeeper. The receipts and disbursements of
the State of Maryland amount to $3, 000, 000 per annum,
and a thorough examination, such as is here contemplated,
would occupy the Governor all of his time. It was well
known that in books of the nature kept at these offices
frauds could be so covered up that none but a most ex-
pert accountant could discover them. He had known many
of the Governors of Maryland, and although they were
amply competent to discharge their duties, he did not
think they would be equal to this task.
The substitute of Mr. Barry was adopted.
Mr. Nicolai approved of the views of the gentleman
from Baltimore, (Mr. Brown, ) and would move to strike
out the entire section.
The motion to strike out was disagreed to.
Sections 19 and 20 were read and passed over without
amendment.
Section 21 was read, as follows:
"The Governor shall reside at the seat of government,
and receive for his services an annual salary of $4, 500. "
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