CONCLUSION.
These first days of this new year mark at once the close of a full Constitutional term of the Executive and the beginning of your active duties in the service of the people by whom you were lately chosen. On the part of the one, the duty to communicate information as to that which is past and touching the present condition of the State, and recommend such measures as he shall judge to be expedient, has now been discharged. On the part of the other it remains to diligently inquire into the business of the State, consider with care the needs of a large and growing community, and within a limited time formulate and enact such legislation for the ensuing two years as will represent the wisdom acquired by experience. The business of the people intrusted to our hands have been completed and has become a matter of record. If apology be required by any for the extent and minute details of this communication, a reason may be discovered in the magnitude and importance of our public affairs, and the propriety of accounting through you to our fellow citizens of the State, while placing ourselves in our proper position among the great States of our Union. We who are about to retire from the public service salute you as you enter and give you a cordial welcome to this scene of your future labors.
ISAAC P. GRAY. Governor's Office,January 6, 1881
