"The frame of mind in the local legislatures seems to be exerted to prevent the federal constitution from having any good effect"

Henry Knox's quote is referring to the attitude of the local legislatures towards the federal constitution. He is recommending that the local legislatures are actively trying to prevent the federal constitution from having any favorable effect. This might be due to a variety of factors, such as a fear of losing power or control, or a desire to preserve the status quo. It might likewise be due to a lack of understanding of the federal constitution and its implications. Whatever the factor, Knox is suggesting that the regional legislatures are not encouraging of the federal constitution and are actively trying to avoid it from having any positive effect. This could result in a lack of development and development in the nation, as the federal constitution is created to offer a structure for the nation to move forward.