regions of the mid-Atlantic states, that would join or seek to join the Union. He also denied, during his trial, the intent of revolting against the United States, of creating a new country. Sometimes he seems to want the same United States—he does describe it in the constitution's title as "for the people of the United States"—but with a better and anti-slavery constitution. This proposed one was only "provisional", which implies some sort of procedure to create a new, permanent constitution. Under Brown's provisional constitution, there would be a unicameral legislature of no less than 5 nor more than 10 members, all chosen at large. There would be no senate. Brown did not see setting up another government with a different constitution to be a revolt against the United States. The Provisional Constitution was cited during the trial as evidence of his intent to commit treason. Not one of the copies was ever distributed; even nearby enslaved persons did not receive copies. The reason for this has never been explained. Although it was reprinted, always with scorn, in the press, Brown was not asked about it by any of the many visitors he saw during the month (November 2–December 2, 1859) between being sentenced to death (in Virginia v. John Brown) and his execution. Much of the Constitution was reprinted in many newspapers, such as the Wheeling Daily Intelligencer, shortly after his arrest. In the pockets of William H. Leeman, one of the rebels killed at Harpers Ferry, was found a commission as captain "in the army established under the provisional constitution". It was signed by John Brown, Commander in Chief, at the "War Department, near Harpers Ferry", dated October 15. The commission was a preprinted form, with Leeman's name filled in by hand. References Further reading (Most recent first) External links John Brown's Provisional Constitution (pp. 187–200) John Brown's Declaration of Liberty (pp. 205–207) John Brown (abolitionist) Provisional constitutions 1858 documents John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry