Kentucky Gazette

From the New York Columbian.

We have received a copy of the constitution reported to the Connecticut convention for their adoption. It consists of eleven articles, three of which have been agreed to in convention, with some modifications, and progress made in the fourth. The following is a brief outline of its leading features:

Art. 1. The bill of rights.

Art. 2. Defines the distribution of powers to the three branches of the government, the legislative, executive and judicial.

Art. 3. Regulates the legislative department; which is to consist of a senate of twelve members, to be chosen by districts annually, and of a house of representatives, of the same number of members as are now chosen. Two stated meetings to be holden annually, and their deliberations to be public, except on occasions which require secrecy.

Art. 4. Defines the powers of the executive, who is to be chosen annually in April. Salary to be regulated by law. To be captain general of the militia, except when called into the service of the United States—is to sign all commissions, may grant reprieves and pardons in certain cases, and may respite the sentence of criminals until after the session of the next legislature. He may return bills to the legislature with his objections, the same as our council of revision; but then if the two houses subsequently pass them, by a bare majority, they become laws notwithstanding his objections. The treasurer to be chosen by the freemen; a comptroller and sheriffs to be appointed by the general assembly. A secretary of state to be appointed as may be directed by law.

Art. 5. The judicial department to be vested in a supreme court of errors, superior courts and inferior courts; the judges of the two former to hold their offices during good behaviour, but liable to impeachment; those of the inferior courts and justices of the peace to be appointed annually. The whole to be appointed by the general assembly.

Art. 6. Relates to the qualifications of electors. A freehold of the yearly value of 7 dollars, performance of militia duty, or the payment of taxes, to entitle every man, of good moral character, and who has arrived to the age of 21, to become an elector. All voting at elections to be by ballot.

Art. 7. Religion. Every denomination of Christians to enjoy equal rights and privileges; and no person to be compelled to join or support, nor by law to be classed with or associated to any congregation, church, or religious association.

Art. 8. Education. Confirms the charter of Yale College, and declares the school fund inviolably appropriated to the support of common schools.

Art. 9 Refers to impeachment.

Art. 10 Makes some general provisions; and

Art. 11 Points out the mode of amending the constitution.