[ Text of section effective until January 1, 2013. Repealed by 2012, 165, Sec. 12. See 2012, 165, Sec. 137.]

  Section 6. The governor, with the advice and consent of the council, may appoint an executive secretary, and a messenger, each of whom shall hold office during the pleasure of the governor and council, shall perform the duties required of him by the governor or by the governor and council, and shall receive such salary as may be fixed by the governor and council, not exceeding the sum annually appropriated therefor by the general court.