Wheeling Gazette
April 24, 1830
We have given above the vote on the Constitution, as far as we have been able to compile it from the very imperfect returns, which we have received. We must confess we are neither surprised, not dissatisfied with the result. Regarding the New Constitution as much better for the West, and for Virginia, than that singular compound of absurdities in theory and oppression in practice, the old; believing that it has granted much to the friends of republican principles, and if they are not unjust to themselves, has placed the remainder within their power, we could not but wish for its adoption. But at the same time we are pleased to see, that it will not be carried by western votes. We can now come to the contest for the remainder of our rights, perfectly untrammelled and with increased strength. Let not then, the friends of reform, be disheartened by the failure of so considerable a part of their plans. Let them still be united, still zealously active. No American Legislature can long withstand the voice of a majority of the people, contending for the first and most important of republican principles. The only hope of the Eastern minority, is in our divisions: they have calculated, but, we think, they have calculated in vain, that a strong party of our friends would be content with what they have offered, and willing to let them enjoy undisturbed the remainder of unprincipled claims.