Gazette Of The United States, & Philadelphia Daily Advertiser

That by the form of government, all freemen above 21 years of age, having one years residence, and having property to the value of 30 current money, have a right to vote at elections; but the evidence hitherto adduced to prove the person entitled to a vote, has been his own oath, which in the heat of party at elections; take up a great deal of time, and is productive of the most baneful consequences, of perjuries, and subornation of perjuries.

That by the form of government, elections are to be held four days, under which construction they are some times held open until 12 o'clock, on the evening of the last day, and some times the polls are closed at sun set, just as it may be understood, or may suit parties.

Your petitioners therefore pray, that no oaths in future may be admitted at the polls, in order to prove the eligibility of a voter; that the evidence of the voter being worth 30l. current money, may be the assessment books, where he is taxed to that amount that the evidence of his being twenty one years of age, may be certificate from his parent, guardian, or some other respectable citizen; and that the evidence of citizenship and residence may be, by legal certificate, to be produced by the persons offering to vote; but that the voter being assessed at 30l. shall be presumptive evidence of residence.

And your petitioners further pray, that no elections in future may be kept open or held after sun down; and that the legislature will establish such other rules and regulations, for the conducting elections, as to them may appear proper and they will pray, &c.

October 14.