The southern press. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1850-1852, 1850-10-16
state Reform Convention OF virginia

This body met at Richmond yesterday, and
the Enquirer gives its proceedings in full OF
the members elected but seven were absent.
Hon. JOHN Y. MASON was chosen as President
Of the Convention by an overwhelming majority,
on the first, and S. d. WHrrrLE, Esq, of Neck
lenbura, elected Clerk on the fifth ballot
On taking the chair, Judge MASON addressed
the Convention in the eloquent ard impressive
remarks which we subioin: s---., ....--.
GENTLEMEN: Most unexpectedly to myself,
those generous constituents whose undated
confidence | had the happiness to enjoy during
a service of more than twenty wears. have re-
quired INV services as one OF their representa-
tives in this body; and to them and to YOU. for
the distinguished honor which YOU have aow
conferred on me, my grateful thanks are due @
Virginia was the first of the American States
to frame written Constitution or form of Gov
ornment; thus taxing the first great step in
those free institutions for securing civil liberty,
which may be denominated the American Sys-
TEN. ls4 z. a gs q. l,az .s.se5a
Whatever opinions may be entertai led in
relation to the subordinate provisions of the
organic law then adopted, every son of Virginia
may regard, with pride and admiration, the
wisdom of our fathers in their great principle of
division and separation Of the powers of Gov
.rnment into three great departments, the Lee
gislature, Executive and Judieial--an elcmcn-
tary principle, adopted in all the subsequent
Constitutions of her sister States, which is
essential to their happy and successful opera
lion ID E@@@.2
More than seventy years have passed away
since Virginia Became IN organized aud inde-
pendent State, and this is the second occasion
on which her people have resorted TO their SOW
erelgn power, OF revising and altering her sup
RENE law. uponns this momentous duty isnow
devolved. M. ,,.
The object of the organic law is to secure 10
the people theirimlienabe rights, .'the enjoyment
of life and liberty, with the means Of requiring
and possessi g property, and obtaining happiness
and safety" In its natureitis permanent, not sub
ject to modification, repeal or amendment by any
agents employedin the ordinary machinery gov
eminent. And, in its controlling influence it pos
scsses the mighty attribute of distributing poll
teal power of the prescribing the right Of suff-
rage, of authorizing or establishing the LcgisLl-
tive, Executive and Judicial authorities, and of
FIXING the orbits within which they may respective
ly move into the execution Of the functions Of
government. .,~ .. H.. ....
Whether we contemplate our duties in refe-
renee to the magnitude OF the subjects which
HllSt eHsgdgc our ucliOerhllOnS, TO their
fuence OH the dearest interests of our constitu-
tuents, or reflect on the necessity of wisdom,
prudence, and foresight, in coming t6 our con-
illusions, all must concur, that our responsible
ties ARE rs great rs can be devo!ved by free
people on their political agents
feel happy that these momentous duties are
to be performed here in this Hall, where, from the
first, order, decorum, aud dignity have prevailed,
AND commanded the admiration Of all spectators
When look around at this assemblage, | feel
assured that the proceedings of this convention
will be characterized by the same gratifying
proofs of propriety.
In discussing the great questions which will
come before us, it is to be expected that conflict
of opinion will arise and excited debate is the
natural result of diversified interests; but NAV
not invoke spirit of Cancellation, mutual re-
spect, and forbearance May not entreat that
we will remember that patriotism knows no Sec
tons, and that we are sons of one common
mother, and, animated by fraternal affection, so
conduct our deliberations rs to promote, by the
results of our labors, the quiet, the happiness,
the honor and glory of Virginia?
Although have, had some experience in the
different departments of the Government, it is
now many years since was connected with a
ieliberative Assembly. Appreciate too highly
the responsibilities of the station to which your
kindness has called me, not to be aware that
will require much indulgence at your hands,
have, however, the consolation to know, that
ny deficiencies will be readily supplied by the
large experience and high talent of those by
whom am surrounded.