Page:Sketches of the life and character of Patrick Henry.djvu/249

 the third year. The impression seems to have been that his appointment for the first year, not having been made by delegates who had themsehes been elected under the constitution, ought not to be counted as one of the constitutional years of service. Mr. Heniy, however, had too scrupulous a respect for that instru- ment to accept the office, even in a doubtful case; and therefore, addressed the following letter to the speaker:

" May 28th, 1779.

" Sir,

" The term for which I had the honour to be elected governor by the late assembly, being just about to expire, and the constitution, as I think, making me ineligible to that office, I take the liberty to communi- cate to the assembly through you, sir, my intention to retire in four or five days.

" I have thought it necessary to give this notification of my design, in order that the assembly may have the earliest opportunity of deliberating upon the choice of a successor to me in office.

" With great regard, I have the honour to be, sir, your most obedient servant,

" P. Henry.''

Thus closed Mr. Henry's administration: and al- though he had not had an opportunity of distinguishing it by any splendid achievement, it is honour enough that he had given universal satisfaction, and that he retired with a popularit}^ confirmed and increased.

It has been thought best not to break the chain of the narrative as to his public character, by noticing the changes which had before this time occurred in his

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