Daily Richmond Whig

For the Whig.

For your liberality in publishing various essays in favor of the proposed system of enclosures, and for the manner in which you have invited public attention to that important subject, you deserve the thanks of all those who favour the system, and those who think it worthy of public attention and investigation. But it is difficult to get the public mind to take it into consideration, and it is hopeless to expect the members of Assembly to act definitely and decisively on that or any other subject, before the expression as well as formation of public opinion. Now, sirs, what is to be done? Shall the friends of this system "give it up," or devise means of bringing it more directly before the public, and of eliciting an expression of its opinion? and how can these objects be accomplished?

What objection could there be to the passage of a law allowing the court of each county, a majority of the magistrates being present, to adopt the system as to that county, if they believe it would promote the general interests of its citizens? The county benches are composed of respectable, experienced and intelligent citizens; whose interests, in this respect, are identified and inseparable from those of the county at large; and there is a moral certainty, that the court would not adopt the system against the wish of a respectable minority. Indeed it is rather to be apprehended that the court may be inclined to err on the other side: by requiring more unanimity of sentiment than can be expected on any important subject, which is both new and untried.

But if the above measure be thought too bold, take another plan. Let the Assembly by resolution or law request the county courts, respectively, to appoint three or more intelligent citizens to investigate the subject, examine into the probable operation of such a law, its advantages and disadvantages, gather the opinions of the people and report to the court thereon, and if the court, a majority being present, adopt the views of the report, let it be sent to the Governor or Auditor to be laid before the next Assembly. Perhaps this course is preferable, as it would embrace the State at large, and would ensure a full and dispassionate examination of the subject. The next Assembly would then be prepared to act advisedly on the matter, and may reject, adopt or modify it at pleasure.

A CITIZEN.