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military power is confided in a Standing Army; but in those that are free, the Citizens themselves form the bulwark of their own liberty & independence. Thus it is in the United States, the free citizens of America are their own guardians; they constitute the military force destined to preserve the peace of the Community, & to guard against foreign invasion. In a nation thus situated, there can be no real cause of jealousy between the civil & military powers. The citizens composing the militia, having the same interests in the welfare of the community, they will be faithful guardians of the common

weal. Hence it is reasonable for the Commander in chief 

to expect, that every individual will do his duty with alacrity, that the laws for regulating the militia will be punctually obeyed; that order & subordination will be maintained; & that regularity & discipline will be fully established throughout the militia of this Commonwealth. Although much has been done to accomplish these desirable ends, & much credit is due to the officers & other citizens of the militia for their exertions to perfect the system of discipline established; yet that they are capable of still greater improve- ment, will not be contended. To attain which the Com- mander in chief equally relies upon those whose province