Probably the object was imperfectly executed; but the deficiencies would
have been supplied by others, in the course of discussion. But in a
constitutive act which leaves some precious articles unnoticed, and
raises implications against others, a declaration of rights becomes
necessary, by way of supplement. This is the case of our new federal
constitution. This instrument forms us into one State, as to certain
objects, and gives us a legislative and executive body for these
objects. It should, therefore, guard us against their abuses of power,
within the field submitted to them. 2. A positive declaration of some
essential rights could not be obtained in the requisite latitude.
Answer. Half a loaf is better than no bread. If we cannot secure all our
rights, let us secure what we can. 3. The limited powers of the federal
government, and jealousy of the subordinate governments, afford a
security which exists in no other instance. Answer. The first member
of this seems resolvable into the first objection before stated. The
jealousy of the subordinate governments is a precious reliance.
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