Mr. Van Buren believed gentlemen were unnecessarily alarmed on this subject. The offices left to the legislature had been greatly exaggerated both in number and importance; and he entertained no doubt that the power would be discreetly exercised.

Mr. Van Buren stated his object to be, to relieve the governor and senate from the duty of making these unimportant appointments. Gentlemen seemed to act upon the supposition that the legislature would in all cases be corrupt, and defeat the wishes of their constituents. It was more natural to suppose, that as the legislature emanated immediately from the people, it would make such a disposal of these minor offices as would give general satisfaction.