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the House - and also the office of Representative in in the Legislature which I hold at the hands of my constituents -

March 5. 1831. J. Ruggles

Ordered - that the thanks of this House be presented to John Ruggles Esq. for the very able and satisfactory manner in which he has discharged the arduous and responsible duties of presiding officer of this House during the present Session - and that he be requested the respects of the members of this House and their best wishes for his continued Health and usefulness -

To which the Speaker replied as follows - Gentlemen of the House of Representatives.

I cannot repress the deep sensibility with which I am penetrated by the very kind and flattering terms in which you have been pleased to express your approbation of my humble services as Speaker of this House. I claim no other merit than that of having been actuated in the performance of them, by a sincere desire to promote harmony in your proceedings to advance and facilitate the business of the Session, to preserve the honor and dignity of the House and earn for myself some portion of the approbation you have now bestowed. To pretend that I have not erred in anything would be to presume that I have not needed your indulgence and would deprive me of the satisfaction I feel in acknowledging the readiness with which indulgence has always been extended to me.

It becomes me on this occasion to bear testimony to the ability and wisdom which have thus far marked your deliberations - and to the unusual industry and perseverance which have enabled you to dispatch so much of the business which has come before you - They afford an earnest to the people that the important subjects which remain to