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226.

doctrine most unfortunately urged by Governor Strong it cannot be denied that the Militia whenever in a war they shall act against the National enemy, have a just claim on the nation for rendering it protection, the protection of a part being that of the whole. Why this claim is so much neglected I know not; but that it should be urged, if the view presented is correct, is submitted to your wisdom.

The subject of the Militia although a trite, periodical and popular theme, is noticed only because it deserves the attention it receives. You must be informed that many persons very sincerely believe that the present requisitions on its services might in a considerable measure be dispensed with without injury. To this sentiment with great respect for those who are urging it a decided dissent is offered. The revolutionary examples and experience, the constitution, the dictates of republicanism, the equalizing influence of the system all demand, in the targets practicable proportion of population an armed and trained militia. The extensive frontier of the State, which no regular army can defend, wains as to rely on the courage and means of the whole people, who ought to be ready and able at least, to extent that the soldier of a regular army will be, to secure their country from usurpation, or to resist its invasion. In the last war if such a sentiment had not prevailed, and but for the preventive effect being fortunately far superior to the corrective action and it being known that and armed yeomanry properly organized is a dangerous foe, we should have become a province.

Wishing however to avoid argument, permit me, as constitutionally bound, to lay before you briefly the objections it has become necessary