There appears no difficulty in believing them, when it is considered how crude and undigested a system of civil polity they endeavored to establish.

The chief articles of the instrument are these: A council was appointed, which was not to exceed twenty-one, nor be less than thirteen persons.

These were to enjoy their office during life or good behavior; and in case of a vacancy, the remaining members named three, of whom the protector chose one.

The protector was appointed supreme magistrate of the commonwealth: in his name was all justice to be administered; from him were all magistracy and honors derived; he had the power of pardoning all crimes, excepting murder and treason; to him the benefit of all forfeitures devolved.

The right of peace, war, and alliance, rested in him but in these particulars he was to act by the advice and with the consent of his council.