Mr. Bond. Mr. President, a few months ago our distinguished Republican leader presented a resolution which was adopted, I think, with the wholehearted support of all of us. I want to take a moment for a personal thank you to Elizabeth Letchworth, who has been an absolutely invaluable guide and counselor and friend during the time I have been in the Senate.

When we first get to the Senate, as the occupant of the chair knows well, our normal question is: What is happening? It is a little bit obtuse and confusing. I often recall that great old saying that: In these chaotic times that are so complex, if you are not totally confused, your are not thinking clearly.

There are times when I have passed that test of thinking clearly by being totally confused. Usually the person I went to was Elizabeth, and would say, "What's happening?" She could explain not only the procedural aspects and what we needed to do in terms of making sure our rights were protected and we were able to present our views, whether on resolutions or bills-she was absolutely invaluable in that-but she also had a pretty good idea of what was going to happen, too. Trying to schedule the day around the work of the Senate floor is a challenge which I don't think any of us not the leadership-maybe even not some of them-have mastered. Because things do change here, it is always very difficult to figure out what is going on.

Elizabeth was the one who, time and time again, told us what was likely to happen, when we could plan on things, what we could do.

On a personal note, as my son was growing up and going to school here, the time I was able to spend with him in the evenings depended upon when we could complete our out-of-Senate work. Elizabeth became probably the best friend I have in terms of by being able to spend some time with my son. I would walk up to the desk in the front with a perplexed look on my face, and she would say: Are you having dinner with your son tonight or do you have something planned? She knew in advance what I was coming to ask her, and she was often able to tell me very precisely what was going on.

In terms of my relationship with my son, I know I can add his thanks to mine for the great friendship and the thoughtfulness she exhibited in helping us deal with the complex time schedules of the Senate.

Most of all, I have to say in this body sometimes things get a little tense. There is a tension across the aisle and there is tension with colleagues on our own side of the aisle. But she was always able to maintain a pleasant and a friendly attitude that helped take away some of the tension and helped smooth over some of the difficult times.

That is a high standard she has set. It is going to be very difficult for those who follow her to equal that degree of service and friendship. But I join with all my colleagues in saying a heartfelt thanks for being a wonderful friend, a great guide, great counselor. We wish you the very best of luck. We hope, if our sense of humor permits, you will come back and watch us from time to time and help guide us through the difficult times ahead. You have certainly done an excellent job in the past.

I join wholeheartedly with a sincere vote of thanks for Elizabeth Letchworth.