140 OFFICE OF MAGISTRATE. 
persons, both males and females, though they 
may be under that age, are entitled to vote. 
Two councillors are chosen at the same time, one 
elected by the magistrate, the other 'by the 
people. When there is any dispute to be settled, 
which cannot well be decided by the magistrate, 
or by the magistrate and councillors combined, 
a jury of seven is called, to whom the matter is 
referred. Then should it not be satisfactorily 
arranged, it stands over until the arrival of a 
British man-of-war ; and there is no appeal 
against the Captain's decision. During the 
interval the matter drops, and no ill-feeling re- 
mains. It is a principle with them, which was 
specially urged upon them by John Adams, 
never to let the sun go down upon their wrath. 
What an example is conveyed in the practical 
adherence to this scriptural rule ! How simple 
and effectual a mode of adjusting differences, 
and preventing the growth of malice, and all 
un charitableness ! 
" The wise will let their anger cool, 
At least before 'tis night ; 
But in the bosom of a fool 
It burns till morning light." 
The office of magistrate is not coveted: it 
being in some respects an invidious one. It 
often happens, that the person for whom this 
honour is designed would, rather than accep.t it, 
kill a hog for the public good. The duties of 
the magistracy are always fulfilled without fear, 
favour, or affection. 
With respect to the general appearance of 
