The record-union., 1897-01-05

the general appropriation bill should be
passed at least ten days prior to ad-
1ournment, In order that the tax levy
may be based upon actual appropria-
t1ons which have received executive ap-
prevail. Commissions and institutions
have been established until govern
ment in California has become mon
strous in it's proportions, a fixed and
permanent burden upon the people. Six
years ago had the honor of calling to
the attention of the Assembly the vari-
Gus commissions in this State, advo-
eating the abOlishment of some and the
consolidation of others A special COM
mittee was appointed for that purpose;
its object failed
With far more reason I again sug-
gest the plan and charge you with the
responsibility in this early hour of our
deliberations. Every appropriation
should be measured by the rule of pub
lie necessity; system should character
ize the detail of public expenditures;
the general welfare should be a charge
upon the judgment, honor and ability
of every member. Local desires should
yield to considerations of public policy.
l say this with reference to the thou
sand little things common to the wants
of individuals, which, if gratified, create
extra burdens upon the taxpayer. There
never was a time in history when the
economical rules of private life could
more appropriately be invoked in public
affairs. 1t is a time when individual
effort will be approved, if it merits ap-
proval, or condemned if it deserves con-
demnation. I shall endeavor with what
assistance my judgment affords to
abide by these suggestions myself, with
the hope and confidence that with your
cooperation they will find their reward
in reform.
again reminding you of your posi-
tions, fraught with public cares as they
are. l thank you for the honor you have
conferred upon me-"
THE SPEAKER PRO TEN.
The Speaker announced as the next
business in order the election Of a
Speaker pro tenn.
Mr.. Valentine of San Diego desired to
place in nomination man from south
of Tehachapi," that Mason and Dixon's s
line of California; man who was hon.
had the character to fill the Speakers $
chair with dignity and good judgment
if called upon to do SO. He placed in
nomination the name Of Brewster e.
Kenyon of Los Angeles.
Assemblyman ]. B. Sanford placed in
nomination ]. X. Burnett of San Luis
Obispo
On roll call Kenyon was elected by a
vote of A to 33 for Burnett.
TAKES OATH OF OFFICE.
On motion of Wright of Alameda a
committee of three was appointed to
escort the Speaker pro tenn to the
Speakers desk Messrs. Wright, Bur-
nett and Sanford guided his footsteps
to the chair where the Speaker admin
istered the oath of office and the
Speaker pro TEN. made neat little
speech His position, he said, was
much like that of the third wheel Of an
ammunition wagon-only to be used in
case of emergency. He congratulated
the House on it's choice of Speaker and
could give no better promise than to
follow as closely as possible in his foot
steps if called upon to fill the chair
temporarily.
THE CHIEF CLERK.
Nominations being open for the office
Of Chief Clerk, Mr.. North of Alameda
made an ardent and eloquent speech in
placing before the House the name of
Hon. Stephen j. Duckworth of Mon
tcrey. Four years ago Mr.. Duckworth
served his district gallantly as MEM
Der of the Assembly; two years ago he
did his whole duty as Chief Clerk, and
now, when he came before them again
for the same office, North believed they
would gladly reward his services with
a reappointment.
T. E. Treacy of San Francisco nomi-
mated William J. Gayigan.
On roll call Duckworth was declared
duly elected.
THE SERGEANT-AT-AR
w. o. Banks was the nominee of the
Republicans and J. B. Stanton of the
minority for this important position.
Mr. Banks was elected.
On motion of Mr.. North recess was
taken until p. m.