New Hampshire.
The first constitution of this state was adopted in 1784; the present one in 1792, and has been amended.
Electors. All male citizens, except paupers and persons excused from paying taxes at their own request, resident in the state six months, and in the town three months.
Legislature--called general court. Senate, twelve members, elected annually in single districts; thirty years of age; inhabitants of the state seven years, and inhabitants of their respective districts. Representatives are apportioned among the towns according to ratable male polls, (male tax-payers;) state residence, two years. Senators and representatives must be of the Protestant religion. Quorum, a majority.
Bills passed against the veto by two-thirds majorities--also become laws if not returned within five days, unless the return is prevented by adjournment.
Executive. The governor is elected annually by majority. If no person has a majority, the two houses elect one of the two highest. Age, thirty years; inhabitant of the state, seven years, and a Protestant. Council of five, one in each district, elected annually by majority. Power of appointment and of pardon exercised by the governor and council. No lieutenant-governor.
Secretary of state, treasurer, and commissary-general appointed by joint ballot of both houses.
Judiciary. Judicial officers are appointed by the governor and council; justices of the peace for five years, judges of the higher courts during good behavior. Judges disqualified at seventy years of age.
Attorney-general, solicitors, sheriffs, coroners, registers of probate, and naval and the higher militia officers, are appointed by the governor and council. County treasurers and registers of deeds are elected in the counties.
Amendments. The sense of the people is taken every seven years; and if a majority favor a revision, the legislature calls a convention; and any alterations proposed by the convention must be approved by two-thirds of the qualified electors who vote thereon.