26 MARYLAND.

called, and the restrictions therein contained,
removed; and that the deputies of said colony,
or any three or more of them, be authorised and
empowered to concur with the United Colonies,
or a majority of them, in declaring the United
Colonies free and independed states; in forming
such further compact and confederation be-
tween them; in making foreign alliances, and in
adopting such other measures as shall be ad-
judged necessary for securing the liberties of
America; and that said colonies will hold itself
bound by the resolutions of the majority of the
united colonies, in the premises; provided, the
sole and exclusive right of regulating the internal
government and police of that colony be reserv-
ed to the people thereof."

It is true that the people selected as their a-
gents upon such occasions those from amongst
themselves who were most worthy, and who
marched in front of danger. It was a delegate
from Maryland that electrified congress by first,
in debate, pronouncing the fearful and responsi-
ble sentence: " I take God to witness this day,
that I owe no allegiance to the King of England."

It was another of her deputies, the one yet
blessing the state and his country with his pa-
ternal prayers and council, who took into that
body a share of personal expectations, under the
old authorities, had he remained loyal to the King
equal to any man, and a larger pledge of property
perhaps than any other individual belorging to
the Congress. His pledge "of life, property and