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in new settlements, where the Regiments embrace a large territory with a thin population, of the long and difficult march they have, to make to the regimental Parade. In circumstances like these, Regimental musters ought seldom to be required; and it is expected that the indulgence autho rized by law, will be extended to Regiments thus situated, at least so far as to muster them in small bodies, and at places convenient to the inhabitants.

Inconveniencies have often resulted to the Militia, by Commissions being delivered out to new elected Officers, with- out their being qualified by oath at the time they received them. From causes of this kind, the mustering of a Regiment has sometimes been frustrated; Companies have failed to ap- pear; warnings have been proved to be illegal; and Clerks have been subjected to heavy bills of Cost. To avoid these evils, every Officer should be qualified when he receives his Commission : for until this is done, he is subject to no legal coercion, nor can he derive any authority, rank, title or exemption from his unqualified Commission. And if, on the requisition of a superior Officer to take & subscribe the oaths, he shall neglect or refuse so to do, the office shall be considered as vacant, and a new election be had.

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