March 31, 1859.
Special Message of His Majesty sent to the Legislature of 1859.
Nobles and Representatives:—I deem it my duty, as Chief Magistrate of the Kingdom, to submit to the Legislature certain points in regard to which the organic law seems to require revision.
Experience has conclusively shown that the Constitution of 1852 does not, in many important respects, meet the expectations of its framers, or of my Predecessor, by whom it was voluntarily conceded.
It is the part of wisdom to derive lessons from experience, and to regulate our future policy in conformity with its suggestions.
The 105th Article of the Constitution prescribes the ordinary mode of amendment. Without reference to a different manner of revision, clearly founded on the inherent rights of the different Estates of my Kingdom, I am, at this time, content to appeal to the Legislature for such action as will provide an adequate remedy for all existing difficulties.
I am satisfied that it would result in great public advantage to allow to my Executive Ministers the privilege of election to the House of Representatives, except when constituted Members of the House of Nobles by Royal Patent. It would also, in my opinion, be politic to permit additions to be made to the House of Nobles for a term of years as well as for life. These changes are earnestly recommended and urged upon your favorable consideration.
I further recommend that the House of Representatives be limited, as to its members, to a number not exceeding twenty; and that a suitable property qualification for eligibility be established. The compensation of such members ought also to be definitely fixed for the entire period of their service, so as to avoid all inducements to protracted sessions beyond the requirement of the public good.
Relying on your wisdom and patriotic disposition, I place these suggestions before you, in the full confidence that they cannot fail to meet your sanction. I entertain no doubt that if the Constitution should be amended in conformity thereto, a beneficial reform of the Legislative Department would be effected, and the general advantage of my Kingdom thereby greatly promoted.