The daily morning journal and courier., 1895-01-10

constitution were passed by the house at the last session and will come before this general assembly for your approV- al on the question of submission to the people. The first concerns the compen- sation of members of the general as- sembly; the second relates to the cleo tion of state officers; the third, to the number of senators and the formation of senatorial districts
 THE LOBBY.
 I ask your attention for few mo- ments to some facts and reflections re- lating to topics to which reference has seldom been made on occasions like | this-partly, we may properly infer, be- | cause the known reasons have seldom seemed sufficiently clear and strong to justify such reference
 It is probable too true that some of the influences accompanying, and to a greater or lesser degree shaping, the legislation of the state, have been now and then for years, of such character as to constitute a serious offense against the rights and interests of the people, Again, 1t is currently thought to have happened that arrangements have been made between persons outside, with members inside the general assembly, to divide the gains secured by combina- ton, to delay or hasten, antagonize or promote measures proposed according to which course would afford the best financial results to the parties to such arrangements
 It may be properly added, in view of observed facts, that the trading of votes between members, with or with out reference to the merit of measures, Is a practice which, at least in many instances, is exceedingly reprehensible.
 To consider each measure carefully, to decide about it fairly, in view of it's character, without fear or favor as to any other measure, is our plain, safe, and simple duty.
 The evil features which are reported to have accompanied the work of the general assembly at times in recent years, have humilated our people and the good name of our state has suffered at home and abroad. You can put an end to scandal and causes of scandal, by firm and decisive action, and 1t is most earnestly to be hoped that such action may be taken very early in the session upon which you now enter,
 The state of the government has now been laid before you as fully as has been found practicable within the pres ent reasonable limits of time and space.
 The change to biennial sessions has greatly increased the time required for the transaction of the states business and the volume of legislation. But let us constantly bear in mind that there is far more danger in too much than in too little legislation.
 MT. President and Gentlemen:-We \ have fallen upon times, which in impor- tant respects, have no parallel in the history of our state Never have our people been so deeply stirred in their desire, amounting to an imperative de- mand, for high standards of legislative and executive action. The time is ripe, the opportunity unprecedented, for great service to our justly beloved state. Life, at best, for even the young est of us, is not long, and its opportun- ities of exceptional usefulness are not many in the ordinary probabilities of our future. We can do for Connecti- cut In the few months of this session, what years of effort under ordinary conditions would not suffice to accom- plish. We are charged with high du- ties in behalf of the interests of the commonwealth. Let us so discharge them as to set an example of integrity in purpose and fidelity in action, which shall bring lasting benefits to the state, and be source of just pride to us and to those who may follow us, through all the years of the future. May God grant to you and to me that wisdom and courage needed to enable us to serve Him through our service of the people, and then all will be well.
 o. VINCENT COFFIN.
 Governor.