Daniel De Lisle Brock praises Guernsey
A speech of thanks by the Bailiff upon receiving a gift from the Country Parishes, presented to him as a mark of their esteem for his help in mitigating the effects of an injurious Corn Bill, proposed by the British Government. May 22 1823.
In reply to a speech from Mr Sivret.
GENTLEMEN:
If the golden age has ever existed the earth, and if it ever revisits it again, it will be in Guernsey, rather than in any other spot, that it may be expected to flourish. In this delightful island, remarkable for the mildness and salubrity of its climate, the fruitfulness of its soil, the toleration of its opinions, the liberality of the institutions, and the impartial administration of the laws; remarkable for the beauty of that enchanting sex, which, to love and to please, forms the principal occupation of our lives; in this island, enjoying all these advantages under the protection of the best of governments, which justly estimates the good-order and loyalty of its inhabitants—what is there wanting to realize the notions of felicity imagined by the poets? Nothing, gentlemen, except souls sincere, and hearts pure and upright; nothing, except the will to become more and more united by mutual acts of kindness, and by the practice of humanity and virtue.
I am at a loss how to reply to the praises of my fellow-citizens; they too-greatly exceed whatever I may have contributed to the good which has been operated, and which is due to the union of all the authorities, to the perfect harmony that has subsisted among all the members of the States; and to none more than our worthy Lieutenant-Governor, whom we justly look upon as our firmest support. But I am extremely grateful for the goodwill of my fellow-citizens; and it is with that satisfaction with which it cannot fail to inspire me, that I this day accept this pledge. If it become the regulator of my time, it is the most precious offering with which they can present me; all the wealth in the world is unable to add one hour to our existence; but, to employ usefully the hours left at our disposal, is more than to double them. May we contemplate them, if possible, in using them in the welfare of our families, our neighbours, our friends, and the whole island; and that one last sigh, like our first vow, may be for the peace, concord, and prosperity of this Holy Land, this Garden of Eden, this Island of Guernsey, our dear country!