The Telescope

Address of the Vice-President to
the Senate, after having taken
the oath of office on the fourth of
March.

Gentlemen of the Senate,

In entering the office of Vice
President, I beg leave to offer a
public acknowledgement to the
honour conferred on me by the
people of the United States, by
placing me next in their confi-
dence to that illustrious citizen,
whose patriotism, virtue and pub-
lic services receive this day the
highest reward a free people can
bestow.

I assume the duties assigned
me in the senate, with the great-
est diffidence, arising from a
consciousness of my inexperience
in the forms of deliberative as-
semblies; and when, at the same
time, I reflect that this chair has
heretofore been adorned by men of the first distinction for experience, talents and character. I am oppressed by the magnitude of the responsibility which devolves upon me.

My heart assures me that I may promise upright intentions, zealous industry and rigid impartiality. If aught beyond these shall merit approbation, it will be justly ascribed to the wisdom and magnanimity of the members of this dignified body—and upon that wisdom I entirely repose myself for guidance and support.