History of the Western Insurrection1794 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1859. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER VIII. THE MEASURES OF THE GOVERNMENT -- ARRIVAL OP COMMISSIONERS -- THE CONFERENCE. As soon as information of the burning of the house of the Inspector, and the march from Braddock's Field, reached Philadelphia, then the seat of government of the State of Pennsylvania, and also of the Union-- great alarm was occasioned. The President called a council of the heads of the departments, while the subject was also taken into consideration by the Governor, * with the Chief Justice, f and the Secretary of State. J A certificate was obtained by the Federal government from Judge Wilson, of the Supreme Court, to meet the requisition of the act of Congress for calling out the military, in consequence of opposition by armed combinations, too powerful to be controlled by the civil authorities. This certificate was given on mere rumor, or on private letters, and not on evidence on oath, and cannot be approved as a precedent, whatever justification it may find in the urgency of the occasion. The President, in conformity with his benevolent character, was in favor of mild measures, and the offer of an amnesty to the country; provided forcible and unlawful opposition would cease. Some of the cabinet were for the most prompt and energetic course;-- the Secretary of State was opposed to calling out the militia, before exhausting every means of pacification. The State authorities differed from the general government, appeared disposed to palliate the conduct of the rioters, and to throw the blame on the excise law, regarding it as a personal affair between the people and the collector of the western district or survey. The Chief Justice, M'Kean, at this juncture suggested the sending commissioners, both on the part of the State and of the Federal government, directly ...