fellow-citizens：
i shall not attempt to describe the grateful emotions which the new and very distinguished proof of the confidence of my fellow-citizens， evinced by my reelection to this high trust， has excited in my bosom. the approbation which it announces of my conduct in the preceding term affords me a consolation which i shall profoundly feel through life. the general accord with which it has been expressed adds to the great and never-ceasing obligations which it imposes. to merit the continuance of this good opinion， and to carry it with me into my retirement as the solace of advancing years， will be the object of my most zealous and unceasing efforts.
having no pretensions to the high and commanding claims of my predecessors， whose names are so much more conspicuously identified with our revolution， and who contributed so preeminently to promote its success， i consider myself rather as the instrument than the cause of the union which has prevailed in the late election in surmounting， in favor of my humble pretensions， the difficulties which so often produce division in like occurrences， it is obvious that other powerful causes， indicating the great strength and stability of our union， have essentially contributed to draw you together. that these powerful causes exist， and that they are permanent， is my fixed opinion； that they may produce a like accord in all questions touching， however remotely， the liberty， prosperity and happiness of our co
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