96 THE CRATER*, done. This matter was early laid before the new council, and the opinions of the governor met with a unanimous concurrence. On the subject of the council, it may be well to say a word. It was increased to nine, and a new election was made, the incumbents holding their offices for life. This last provision was made to prevent the worst part, and the most corrupting influence of politics, viz., the elections, from getting too much sway over the public mind. The new council was composed as follows, viz : Messrs. Heaton, Pennock, Belts, Charlton, Saunders, Wilmot, and Warrington. These names belonged to the most intelligent men of the colony, Belts perhaps excepted ; but his claims were too obvious to be slighted. Betts had good sense moreover, and a great deal of modesty. All the rest of the council had more or less claims to be gentlemen, but Bob never pretended to that character. He knew his own qualifica tions, and did not render himself ridiculous by aspiring to be more thnn he really was; still, his practical knowledge made him a very useful member of the council, where his opinions were always heard with attention and respect. Charlton and Wilmot were merchants, and intended to embark regularly in trade ; while Warrington, who possessed more fortune than any of the other colonists, unless it might be the governor, called himself a farmer, though he had a respectable amount of general science, and was well read in most of the liberal studies. Warrington was made judge, with a small salary, all of which he gave to the clergyman, the Rev. Mr. White. This was done because he had no need of the money him self, and there was no other provision for the parson than free contributions. John Woolston, who had read law, was named Attorney-General, or colony s attorney, as the
