Compulsive or treacherous measures to establish any government whatever, will always excite jealousy among a free people: better remain single and alone, than blindly adopt whatever a few individuals shall demand, be they ever so wise. I had rather be a free citizen of the small republic of Massachusetts, than an oppressed subject of the great American empire. Let all act understandingly or not at all. If we can confederate upon terms that wilt secure to us our liberties, it is an object highly desirable, because of its additional security to the whole. If the proposed plan proves such an one, I hope it will be adopted, but if it will endanger our liberties as it stands, let it be amended; in order to which it must and ought to be open to inspection and free inquiry."

- from The Maryland Journal, and Baltimore Advertiser, April 1, 1788.

Based on the contents of the excerpt shown here, this passage is MOST likely part of

A) The Federalist Papers.

B) The Anti-Federalist Papers.

C) The Fundamental Orders of Connceticut.

D) The New England Articles of Confederation.