gratifying a proof of your regard—for on the Bench I have invariably experienced from you and the whole Bar the utmost courtesy and kindness, which I take this opportunity of gratefully acknowledging.

And yet when I turn back to my past career I see in it many shortcomings and failings—to give them no other name— which even indulgent self love cannot overlook, though you have been good enough to forget them in the flattering language of your address.

Many changes have taken place since I became a Judge; some have thrown a dark shadow around me. I have seen every one of my early associates on the Bench, with whom I have lived in the closest intimacy, pass away—and many valued friends from among yourselves removed by death. I may also remark as another result of my extended term of office, that not a few are now in practice who were not born when I first occupied a seat on the Bench.

It was, however, time for me to retire. Infirmities increasing with increasing age and broken health, had rendered me unequal to the labors of my office: and mucl1 as I loved my profession, and reluctant as I was to leave it, a sense of duty demanded that I should make way for some other better qualified to fill my place. Could I have accomplished it, my retirement would have taken place some years earlier.

And now, gentlemen, with renewed thanks for your parting kindness, your good opinion and good wishes, I take a final and affectionate leave of the profession in whose welfare I shall never cease to feel a lively interest. For yourselves, I wish you individually every happiness and success, and for the profession to which we belong I add my earnest hope that it may still be ever distinguished for learning, talents, and integrity.