.MjEwNQ.MjgzNzE

492.

Addressing you as I now do, in all probability for the last time, from this place. I do indeed feel a degree of emotion which I am unable to express. I feel that I am largely your debtor --- that I am under strong obligations to you all --- obligations that will be recollected with pride and with pleasure. Be pleased to accept my sincere thanks for the respectful consideration you have manifested towards me --- for the timely and valuable aid you have afforded me. We this day cease to perform legislative acts, which must have an important bearing on the welfare, rights and interests of our fellow - citizens. Ceasing to be public men, may we not cease our efforts to strengthen and maintain our valuable institutions. May each one exert himself to promote the good of others, by steadily supporting the great principles of order, intelligence and morality. May that being, who has mercifully watched over us here, continue to you and yours, His Almighty protection : guide you in the path of duty, grant you every rational enjoyment on earth, and finally admit you to the happiness of the Redeemed.