Litchfield Enquirer

Previous to the adjournment of Congress, a vote of thanks to Mr. Stevenson, for the ability and impartiality with which he had discharged the duties of Speaker, was passed; upon which he rose and delivered the following address:

Gentlemen: The moment having arrived, in which I am about to lay down the trust with which you have honored me, and the connections which have existed between us are to cease, I should do violence to the feelings which now warm my heart, if I did not seize this occasion to express my deep sense of gratitude, for your past confidence and kindness, and the flattering proof just given, of your continued approbation and favor.

Two years have elapsed, since I had the honor of being placed in this Chair. This period of service has been distinguished by events and circumstances well calculated to render this station, not only one of extreme delicacy, but severe responsibility and labor. Steady and lasting applause; permanent and solid reputation: can only be acquired in a station so exalted, by an undeviating adherence to elevated principles, and by a manly, upright, and independent discharge of its high and important functions. Under the influence of these principles and a just diffidence in my own qualifications, I came to this chair with a settled determination to pursue that course which should secure to me the testimony of my own mind, and the approbation of every just and liberal man. That my efforts have not been wholly unavailing, I am this day assured by the renewed evidence of the kindness and justice of the House. I receive it, in the same spirit of kindness in which it has been offered, and shall cherish it through life, with feelings of profound respect and the deepest gratitude.

If, gentlemen, in the discharge of our multifarious duties, if, amid the storms and strife of passion or of party; if under the influence of momentary excitement, or irritation, any thing unkind should have been said or done, let us, I entreat you, endeavor to forget and forgive it, and let our separation, (with many of us long, and with some of us forever,) be in the spirit of peace and good will, and as becomes the Representatives of virtuous and enlightened freemen.

You will carry with you, gentlemen, my prayers for continued blessings upon our beloved country, and my best wishes for your health, prosperity, and happiness.

It remains for me only to announce that this House stands adjourned sine die.