Gentlemen,—In commencing the work of the office to which you have elected me, I desire to convey to you my sense of the honour conferred and of the responsibility which this honour entails. In heartily thanking you, I assure you it will be my constant care to maintain impartially the rights of members and the freedom of debate. While checking exuberant verbosity, I shall endeavour to encourage useful discussion and to expedite business at all our meetings, and shall look to you for the support which is necessary to preserve intact the dignity and privileges of the Chair.