HISTORY OF BROOKLYN 199

In May, 1682, Governor Andros, whose arbitrary character and government had rendered him unpopular in the province, left the country, and was succeeded, on the 25th of August, 1683, by Col. Thomas Dongan. The province of Now York had for many years suffered from many grievances, due to the unlimited authority which was vested in its chief magistrate; and as early as 1681, the popular feeling on the subject found expression in a petition for redress to the Duke of York. His Royal Highness prudently assented, and Gov. Dongan brought with him special instructions to institute a General Assembly, similar to that of the Now England colonies. This first Colonial Legislature, composed of the Governor, Council, and seventeen members, chosen by the people, held its first session from October 17th to Nov. 3d, 1683. It straightway adopted a Òcharter of liberties," providing that the supreme authority, under the duke, should be vested in the Governor, Council, and a legislature elected by the people, according to the laws of England, which should convene, at least, triennially. It furthermore established the right of trial by jury of twelve, and interdicted the molestation or prosecution of any person for any difference of opinion or action concerning religious affairs, so long as they professed a faith in God by Jesus Christ, and did not actually disturb the peace. Other important changes in the organization of the province were also made. The ridings were abolished and rearranged into counties; Breuckelen, Boswyck, Amersfoort, Flatbush, Now Utrecht, and Gravesend being comprised in the new County of Kings, while Newtown was transferred to Queens County. In each of the twelve counties into which the province was divided, the Court of Sessions was to meet twice a year, and the Court of Oyer and Terminer annually. In each town, a Commissioners' Court was established, which was to be held on the first Wednesday in every month, for the hearing of small causes, and actions for debt and trespass, not exceeding 408. Another change in the form of town government was the establishment of assessors and supervisors, the latter having supervision of public affairs and town expenses.

In pursuance of royal instructions and with the view of definitely fixing the amount of quit-rent, to be paid to the government by each of the towns, in acknowledgment for their lands, Gov. Dongan, on