But if any change is to be introduced in the existing state of things, or if they wish to undertake any new enterprise, they are obliged to refer to the source of their power.

If, for instance, a school is to be established, the selectmen convoke the whole body of the electors on a certain day at an appointed place; they explain the urgency of the case; they give their opinion on the means of satisfying it, on the probable expense, and the site which seems to be most favorable.

The meeting is consulted on these several points; it adopts the principle, marks out the site, votes the rate, and confides the execution of its resolution to the selectmen.
[Footnote c: Three selectmen are appointed in the small townships, and nine in the large ones.

See "The Town-Officer," p.186.See also the principal laws of the State of Massachusetts relative to the selectmen: Act of February 20, 1786, vol.i.p.

219; February 24, 1796, vol.i.