1867.] OF THE SENATE. 5

not my province to do more than allude to topics which will
be amply and ably discussed in the course of your delibera-
tions.

In conclusion, I may be permitted to express the hope that
every obstruction to our prosperity, State and National, may
be removed out of the way, and that the movement toward
whatever is wise and great, pure and noble in Government may
be steadily progressive. In vain do we boast our vast terri-
torial domains—the exhaustless sources of national prosperity
—the wide diffusion of intelligence and morals—if these neces-
sary ingredients are not bound together by the cords of the
Union. Without this we have no spirit of nationality, vita-
lizing the whole, animating all hearts with the love of a com-
mon country, and converging all ideas and interests towards
one common purpose and destiny. To secure so desirable a
consummation there must be an end of strife—the conflict of
extremes must cease—embittered feeling subside—the rights
of all sections must be respected, and a liberal sentiment ani-
mate the councils of the Government in dealing with the
momentous questions of the hour. The wounds inflicted by
the unhappy contest from which we have so recently emerged
must be healed with as little delay as possible, and old feuds
and animosities of every description, and from whatever quar-
ter, buried out of sight forever. No other policy can ever re-
store the union of the States or give permanent prosperity to
the nation. Let us at least, Senators, cultivate the solid vir-
tues of peace, and present, in our Legislative proceedings, an
example of forbearance and moderation—a resolute purpose
to labour for the good of the whole rather than the benefit of
a part—which cannot fail to command the admiration and
approval of all good and wise men.

In the discharge of my official functions, as the Presiding
Officer of the Senate, I must again invoke your indulgence
towards the defeats of my administration, as well as that
encouragement, counsel and support so essential to the suc-
cessful discharge of the various and perplexing duties of the
Chair. .

I take pleasure in declaring the Senate now open for the
transaction of business.

On motion of Mr. Stephenson, the Senators elect took and

subscribed the oath prescribed by the Constitution.

On motion of Mr. Stephenson,

Ordered, That for the purpose of facilitating the reporting
of the proceedings of the Senate correctly and expeditiously,
the reporter for the Associated Press of Baltimore City be
allowed the privilege of occupying a desk in near proximity
to the desk of the Secretary of the Senate.