Messages to the General Assembly (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1866 Excerpt: ...slackness of the views of the people, the law-makers and the courts on this vital subject is a serious reflection on the entire country, as well as our own State. "Laws should be passed to check hasty and improper marriage. An important step in this direction would be to make it next to impossible tosecure a divorce. When the people are brought to regard marriage as a union for life, as its divine author purposed it should be, the marriage vow will be taken after proper consideration, and divorce will be largely a thing of the past. The moral standard of the country will be elevated, and the people made better and happier. It is claimed that ours is a Christian country, but our divorce laws and the manner in which they are executed are, indeed poor evidences of it." CONCLUSION. On retiring from the office which I have occupied for four years, I desire first to express my gratitude to the people of the State who committed this exalted trust to my hands. I have devoted the energy of my life in endeavoring to perform every duty faithfully and well; in so far as I have failed to do so, I crave indulgence. For the consideration and kindness with which I have been treated by the public press, I acknowledge my indebtedness. To the State officials with whom I have been associated who have been most helpful in my administration, I extend many thanks, and indulge the hope that the affection and esteem that I feel for them may be in some measure reciprocated. The many courtesies and kindnesses shown to me by the various clerks and employes connected with the different departments of State have always been appreciated, though I fear were often unacknowledged. Trusting that the suggestions, recommendations and all the important affairs of State herein submitte...