History of Northampton, Massachusetts, from its settlement in 1654;

irS-2.] SERIES OF CONVENTIONS—PEACE—EASTHAMPTON. 467
on the 10"'. Northampton was represented by three dele-
gates chosen at a meeting heki a few days before the convention
assembled, and no instructions were given them by
the town.
Held undcT the auspiccs of the legislative
The County Convention.
Committee, this convention was less treason-
able in its utterances, and less radical in its
recommendations than some of its predecessors. Guided
in the paths of conservatism by the men from Boston, its
resolutions evinced a loyalty to the existing government
heretofore conspicuously lacking. It is true that the grievances
complained of were as yet unredressed. Still the
rioters, though in a sense partially successful in their attempt
to override the law, must have become convinced
that while they commanded the sympathy of all loyal citi-
zens, they must also understand that no attempt to overthrow
the government would be tolerated.
Resolutions Adopted A list of resolutious, fourtecu in number,
by the Convention. ^^s adopted. Relief from the weight of
taxation by means of a more equal distri-
bution of its burdens ; a scaling down of the list of civil
officers, and a consequent reduction in the amount paid for
salaries ; a general and effective system of economy in the
methods of conducting affairs ; and indemnity for all engaged
in the late unpleasantness, except Samuel Ely, were
the principal points insisted upon. The whole wound up
with a fervent declaration of loyalty to the State and
fealty to Congress.
Results of the Action
The Tcsults attending the presence of this
of the Committee. committee, Were in accordance with the
anticipations of Major Hawley, and much
that he predicted seems to have been accomplished. Affairs
were quieted, temporarily at least, in the county, and
but a single outbreak is chronicled till the Shays rebellion
convulsed the state. The committee received the thanks of
the Legislature " for their indefatigable and successful endeavors
in so great a degree quieting the disturbances that
had arisen in that county.'' They led the people along the
lines already followed, and the result did not vary essen-