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Mr. Speaker and Gentlemen of the House of Commons.

When I first received the Honorable appointment of Governor of this State, I was induced to accept it from a desire of supporting, as far as in me lay, the Liberties and Interest of my Country,

and in discharging the several important duties of that elevated station I am happy to find my conduct approved by you. The manner in which you, Gentlemen, have been pleased to Communicate the same to me is so truly affecting that I am at a loss to express my Feelings on this occasion. However, give me leave, Gentlemen, to return you my most Cordial and grateful thanks for these warm, Friendly and affectionate expressions of regard for my Happiness and that of my Posterity. That you and yours, with the good people whom you Represent, may enjoy that Freedom and Liberty so happily begun, and the Blessings of Independence and Peace (with the assistance of your Councils) be established and Secured to this and the United States to the latest period, is my most Ardent wish.

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