Morgan L. Martin's Sine die Address of February 1, 1848

by Morgan L. Martin

GENTLEMEN :—Having accomplished the work for which this convention was called together, it only remains to declare its final dissolution. The result of our labors, if approved, becomes henceforth the supreme law of our adopted land, and whether well or ill done, it stands forth as the record of our united opinions upon the form of government best suited to the condition of our people. Following the example set by the Great Architect of the Universe, we may without irreverance look upon the pages of our constitution and pronounce them to be good. It abounds in the declaration of those great principles which characterize the age in which we live, and which under the protection of Heaven, will, nay, must guard the honor, promote the prosperity, and secure the permanent welfare of our beloved country.

I should do injustice to my own feelings, not to speak upon the present occasion, in terms of high commendation, of the order, respectful bearing, and courteous conduct which have marked our intercourse during our long and arduous session. All other considerations have apparently been merged in a uniform and united effort to study the public good, and attain the favorable judgment of our fellow-citizens.

For the complimentary language in which you have spoken of the part I have borne in your proceedings, you will accept my humble and hearty thanks. It affords a testimonial of which any man may well be proud, and will be ever held in grateful remembrance.

We are about to separate—many of us never to meet again on earth, and I bid you an affectionate adieu, with the fervent prayer that you may long enjoy the confidence and respect of your constituents, and that happiness and prosperity may attend you all through life.

I pronounce this body adjourned without day.

Journal of the Convention to form a constitution for the state of Wisconsin with a sketch of the debates, begun and held at Madison, on the fifteenth day of December, eighteen hundred and forty-seven February 1, 1848