William A. Wheeler's Sine die Address of February 28, 1868

by William Almon Wheeler

Gentlemen of The Convention : The unanimity and cordiality with which, in my absence, you were pleased to approve my official action, command my sincere gratitude. I came to the chair with the single purpose of administering its duties fairly and impartially, remembering that the trust confided to us was neither for majorities nor minorities, but for all alike, aa citizens of a common State. Your uniform confidence and toleration have rendered whatever measure of success I may have achieved of easy accomplishment. The work in which we have been so long engaged is about to pass from our hand, to undergo, at some future period, the scrutiny of the great body of the people. Let us hope that they may determine that our labors have not been altogether fruitless, and that the changes suggested by us in the organic law are such as will further the well being and advancement of the Commonwealth ; and assure for the future the preeminence to which she is justly entitled and which has so long distinguished her. The unremitted personal kindness and courtesy which I have received, alike from delegates and officers, will ever be cherished among the pleasant memories of life. And as we sever our relations to drift out m widely diverging lines into the unknown future, rest assured each one bears with him my earnest wish for a life of usefulness, prosperity and happiness. And now I perform my last official duty by pronouncing this Convention adjourned without day.