1776.] OF THE PROVINCE OF MARYLAND. 293

exclusive jurisdiction over the said river Potowmack, and also over
such part of the river Pocomoke as is comprehended in the said
charter, belongs to this state; and that the river Potowmack and
that part of Chesapeake bay which lies between the capes and the
south boundary of this state, and so much thereof as is necessary
to the navigation of the rivers Potowmack and Pocomoke, ought
to be considered as a common high-way, free for the people of both
states, without being subject to any duty, burthens or charge, as
hath been heretofore accustomed.

Resolved unanimously, That it is the opinion of this convention,
that the very extensive claim of the state of Virginia to the back
lands hath no foundation in justice, and that if the same or any
like claim is admitted, the freedom of the smaller states and the
liberties of America may be thereby greatly endangered; this con-
vention being firmly persuaded, that if the dominion over those
lands should be established by the blood and treasure of the United
States, such lands ought to be considered as a common stock, to
be parcelled out at proper times into convenient, free and inde-
pendent governments.

Agreeable to the order of the day, the convention resolved itself
into a committee of the whole, to consider further of the declara-
tion of rights, and form of government for this state; Mr. T.
Wright in the chair. After some time spent therein Mr. President
resumed the chair, and Mr. Wright reported, that the committee
had, according to order, taken the same into consideration, and
had come to several resolutions thereon, which they directed him
to report, as the declaration of rights, but not having had time to
go through the form of government, had directed him to move for
leave to sit again.

Resolved, That this convention will on to-morrow resolve itself
into a committee of the whole, to consider further of the form of
government of this state.

On motion of Mr. Fitzhugh, That the question be put on the
following: "As the bill of rights formerly printed for the consid-
eration of the members of the convention, has been materially al-
tered by a committee of the whole house, and it is of infinite im-
portance to the inhabitants of this state, that the said bill of rights
should be maturely considered before it is passed by the conven-
tion, and that each member should have a copy before him, in or-
der to judge of, and offer such amendments or alterations as he
may think proper, Resolved, That the bill of rights as reported by
a committee of the whole house be immediately printed for the
consideration and use of the members of this convention, before