Jenks's Portland Gazette

Who shall represent us?

H. L. BANKS,

This being the day on which the citizens of this town are to elect their representation for the ensuing session of the General Court, it is hoped they will not be unmindful of the interest and honor of this nourishing metropolis. Hitherto we have sent but one representative, and therefore had no more influence than the smallest town in the District; and in many cases the interest of the town has materially suffered. It has generally been objected to sending more than one, on the plea of expense;—but this objection is presumed will no longer be used. As well may we say, and with far more propriety may it be said, that Massachusetts should send but one Representative to Congress, because of the expense, as to say that Portland can afford to send but one member to the General Court:—Besides it is frequently inconvenient, and sometimes impossible for one member to attend constantly; in which case we may often be left without even a vote. But if two are chosen we shall probably always have one present at each session; and as the travelling fees are paid from the public chest the expense will amount only to about the trifling pay of one representative.

Let me ask our fellow citizens if they would dispense with their national government, and leave their property common to all because they have to pay a few dollars a year to support it? —Would they consent to break up their families rather than pay a trifle to support the town and society from the business of which they draw their subsistence?—And shall we then suffer the Legislature of our state to dwindle to a handful of members, and leave our all to their will and disposal, rather than pay a few shillings in support of an equal and just representation?—Let us pause on these questions, and act with the spirit becoming freemen.

The peculiar situation of our public affairs at this eventful crisis—the violent and unremitted exertions of the enemies of our Constitution and Laws—and many other reasons, conduce to rouse those who are governed by the good of their country, and urge them to come forward, and improve the present opportunity to place in power and trust, those who will act spiritedly and independently in support of our present valuable state government.

It is understood, and you will please to make it known through the medium of your Gazette, that

DANIEL TUCKER, and

WILLIAM SYMMES,

will be supported this day by a great number of their fellow citizens.

An old inhabitant of Portland.

The meeting for choosing Representatives this day, will be at eleven o'clock.