_Speech of His Majesty at the Extraordinary Session of the House of
Nobles held at the Palace October 3d, 1859._
GENTLEMEN OF THE HOUSE OF NOBLES:--I have thought proper to
convene you in special session in order to consult on a
matter, which in my judgment relates to the highest welfare of
the nation. In contemplation of a vacancy in the chief
executive office, at all times liable to occur, it is
important that the succession to the crown should be
definitely established in a constitutional manner. To this
subject I invite your attention, in the full confidence that
the recommendation I am about to make will receive at your
hands a hearty concurrence.
The Constitution points out the mode of procedure to be
adopted, and I avail myself of the authority thus vested in me
to designate my infant son, the Prince of Hawaii, as my heir
and successor to the Throne. Your assent and co-operation in
the measure are required, but I do not doubt your ready and
loyal support, not only on grounds relating to the stability
of the existing dynasty, but from motives intimately connected
with the public good.