Appendix A.
CONSTITUTION OF CALIFORNIA.
PROCLAMATION TO THE PEOPLE OF CALIFORNIA
The delegates of the people assembled in Convention, have formed a constitution, which is now presented for your ratification. The time and manner of voting on this constitution, and of holding the first general election, are clearly set forth in the schedule. The whole subject is, therefore, left for your unbiassed and deliberate consideration.
The Prefect (or person exercising the functions of that office) of each district, will designate the places for opening the polls, and give due notice of the election, in accordance with the provisions of the constitution and schedule.
The people are now called upon to form a government for themselves, and to designate such officers as they desire, to make and execute the laws. That their choice may be wisely made, and that the government so organized may secure the permanent welfare and happiness of the people of the new State, is the sincere and earnest wish of the present Executive, who, if the constitution be ratified, will, with pleasure, surrender his powers to whomsoever the people may designate as his successor.
Given at Monterey, California, this 12th day of October, A.D., 1849.
(Signed)B. Riley,
Brevet Brig. General, U.S.A., and Governor of California.