At no period of our political existence had we so much cause to felicitate ourselves at the prosperous and happy condition of our country. The abundant fruits of the earth have filled it with plenty. An extensive and profitable commerce has greatly augmented our revenue. The public credit has attained an extraordinary elevation. Our preparations for defense in case of future wars, from which, by the experience of all nations, we ought not to expect to be exempted, are advancing under a well-digested system with all the dispatch which so important a work will admit. Our free Government, founded on the interest and affections of the people, has gained and is daily gaining strength. Local jealousies are rapidly yielding to more generous, enlarged, and enlightened views of national policy. For advantages so numerous and highly important it is our duty to unite in grateful acknowledgements to that Omnipotent Being from whom they are derived, and in unceasing prayer that He will endow us with virtue and strength to maintain and hand them down in their utmost purity to our latest posterity. I have the satisfaction to inform you that an arrangement which had been commenced by my predecessor with the British Government for the reduction of the naval force by Great Britain and the United States on the Lakes has been concluded, by which it is provided that neither party shall keep in service on Lake Champlain more than one vessel, on Lake Ontario more than one, and on Lake Erie and the upper lakes more than two, to be armed each with one cannon only, and that all the other armed vessels of both parties, of which an exact list is interchanged, shall be dismantled. It is also agreed that the force retained shall be restricted in its duty to the internal purposes of each party, and that the arrangement shall remain in force until six months shall have expired after notice given by one of the parties to the other of its desire that it should terminate. By this arrangement useless expense on both sides and, what is of still greater importance, the danger of collision between armed vessels in those inland waters, which was great, is prevented. I have the satisfaction also to state that the commissioners under the fourth article of the treaty of Ghent, to whom it was referred to decide to which party the several islands in the bay of Passamaquoddy belonged under the treaty of 1783, have agreed in a report, by which all the islands in the possession of each party before the late war have been decreed to it. The commissioners acting under the other articles of the treaty of Ghent for the settlement of boundaries have also been engaged in the discharge of their respective duties, but have not yet completed them. The difference which arose between the two Governments under that treaty respecting the right of the US to take and cure fish on the coast of the British provinces north of our limits, which had been secured by the treaty of 1783, is still in negotiation. The proposition made by this Government to extend to the colonies of GB the principle of the convention of London, by which the commerce between the ports of the United States and British ports in Europe had been placed on a footing of equality, has been declined by the British Government. This subject having been thus amicably discussed between the two Governments, and it appearing that the British Government is unwilling to depart from its present regulations, it remains for Congress to decide whether they will make any other regulations in consequence thereof for the protection and improvement of our navigation. The negotiation with Spain for spoliations on our commerce and the settlement of boundaries remains essentially in the state it held by the communications that were made to Congress by my predecessor. It has been evidently the policy of the Spanish Gov't to keep the negotiation suspended, and in this the United States have acquiesced, from an amicable disposition toward Spain and in the expectation that her Government would, from a sense of justice, finally accede to such an arrangement as would be equal between the parties. A disposition has been lately shown by the Spanish Government to move in the negotiation, which has been met by this Government, and should the conciliatory and friendly policy which has invariably guided our councils be reciprocated, a just and satisfactory arrangement may be expected. It is proper, however, to remark that no proposition has yet been made from which such a result can be presumed. It was anticipated at an early stage that the contest between Spain and the colonies would become highly interesting to the United States. It was natural that our citizens should sympathize in events which affected their neighbors. It seemed probable also that the prosecution of the conflict along our coast and in contiguous countries would occasionally interrupt our commerce and otherwise affect the persons and property of our citizens. These anticipations have been realized. Such injuries have been received from persons acting under authority of both the parties, and for which redress has in most instances been withheld. Through every stage of the conflict the United States have maintained an impartial neutrality, giving aid to neither of the parties in men, money, ships, or munitions of war. They have regarded the contest not in the light of an ordinary insurrection or rebellion, but as a civil war between parties nearly equal, having as to neutral powers equal rights. Our ports have been open to both, and every article the fruit of our soil or of the industry of our citizens which either was permitted to take has been equally free to the other. Should the colonies establish their independence, it is proper now to state that this Government neither seeks nor would accept from them any advantage in commerce or otherwise which will not be equally open to all other nations. The colonies will in that event become independent states, free from any obligation to or connection with us which it may not then be their interest to form on the basis of a fair reciprocity. In the summer of the present year an expedition was set on foot against East Florida by persons claiming to act under the authority of some of the colonies, who took possession of Amelia Island, at the mouth of the St. Marys River, near the boundary of the State of Georgia. As this Province lies eastward of the Mississippi, and is bounded by the United States and the ocean on every side, and has been a subject of negotiation with the Government of Spain as an indemnity for losses by spoliation or in exchange for territory of equal value westward of the Mississippi, a fact well known to the world, it excited surprise that any countenance should be given to this measure by any of the colonies. As it would be difficult to reconcile it with the friendly relations existing between the United States and the colonies, a doubt was entertained whether it had been authorized by them, or any of them. This doubt has gained strength by the circumstances which have unfolded themselves in the prosecution of the enterprise, which have marked it as a mere private, unauthorized adventure. Projected and commenced with an incompetent force, reliance seems to have been placed on what might be drawn, in defiance of our laws, from within our limits; and of late, as their resources have failed, it has assumed a more marked character of unfriendliness to us, the island being made a channel for the illicit introduction of slaves from Africa into the United States, an asylum for fugitive slaves from the neighboring States, and a port for smuggling of every kind. A similar establishment was made at an earlier period by persons of the same description in the Gulf of Mexico at a place called Galvezton, within the limits of the United States, as we contend, under the cession of Louisiana. This enterprise has been marked in a more signal manner by all the objectionable circumstances which characterized the other, and more particularly by the equipment of privateers which have annoyed our commerce, and by smuggling. These establishments, if ever sanctioned by any authority whatever, which is not believed, have abused their trust and forfeited all claim to consideration. A just regard for the rights and interests of the United States required that they should be suppressed, and orders have been accordingly issued to that effect. The imperious considerations which produced this measure will be explained to the parties whom it may in any degree concern. To obtain correct information on every subject in which the United States are interested; to inspire just sentiments in all persons in authority, on either side, of our friendly disposition so far as it may comport with an impartial neutrality, and to secure proper respect to our commerce in every port and from every flag, it has been thought proper to send a ship of war with three distinguished citizens along the southern coast with these purpose. With the existing authorities, with those in the possession of and exercising the sovereignty, must the communication be held; from them alone can redress for past injuries committed by persons acting under them be obtained; by them alone can the commission of the like in future be prevented. Our relations with the other powers of Europe have experienced no essential change since the last session. In our intercourse with each due attention continues to be paid to the protection of our commerce, and to every other object in which the United States are interested. A strong hope is entertained that, by adhering to the maxims of a just, a candid, and friendly policy, we may long preserve amicable relations with all the powers of Europe on conditions advantageous and honorable to our country. With the Barbary States and the Indian tribes our pacific relations have been preserved. In calling your attention to the internal concerns of our country the view which they exhibit is peculiarly gratifying. The payments which have been made into the Treasury show the very productive state of the public revenue. After satisfying the appropriations made by law for the support of the civil Government and of the military and naval establishments, embracing suitable provision for fortifications and for the gradual increase of the Navy, paying the interest of the public debt, and extinguishing more than $18M of the principal, within the present year, it is estimated that a balance of more than $6M will remain in the Treasury on the first day of January applicable to the current service of the ensuing year. The payments into the Treasury during the year 1818 on account of imposts and tonnage, resulting principally from duties which have accrued in the present year, may be fairly estimated at $20M; the internal revenues at $2.5M; the public lands at $1.5M; bank dividends and incidental receipts at $500,000; making in the whole $24.5M. The annual permanent expenditure for the support of the civil Government and of the Army and Navy, as now established by law, amounts to $11.8M, and for the sinking fund to $10M, making in the whole $21.8M, leaving an annual excess of revenue beyond the expenditure of $2.7M, exclusive of the balance estimated to be in the Treasury on the first day of January, 1818. In the present state of the Treasury the whole of the Louisiana debt may be redeemed in the year 1819, after which, if the public debt continues as it now is, above par, there will be annually about $5M of the sinking fund unexpended until the year 1825, when the loan of 1812 and the stock created by funding Treasury notes will be redeemable. It is also estimated that the Mississippi stock will be discharged during the year 1819 from the proceeds of the public lands assigned to that object, after which the receipts from those lands will annually add to the public revenue the sum of $1.5M, making the permanent annual revenue amount to $26M, and leaving an annual excess of revenue after the year 1819 beyond the permanent authorized expenditure of more than $4M. By the last returns to the Department of War the militia force of the several States may be estimated at 800,000 men - infantry, artillery, and cavalry. Great part of this force is armed, and measures are taken to arm the whole. An improvement in the organization and discipline of the militia is one of the great objects which claims the unremitted attention of Congress. The regular force amounts nearly to the number required by law, and is stationed along the Atlantic and inland frontiers. Of the naval force it has been necessary to maintain strong squadrons in the Mediterranean and in the Gulf of Mexico. From several of the Indian tribes inhabiting the country bordering on Lake Erie purchases have been made of lands on conditions very favorable to the United States, and, as it is presumed, not less so to the tribes themselves. By these purchases the Indian title, with moderate reservations, has been extinguished to the whole of the land within the limits of the State of Ohio, and to a part of that in the Michigan Territory and of the State of Indiana. From the Cherokee tribe a tract has been purchased in the State of Georgia and an arrangement made by which, in exchange for lands beyond the Mississippi, a great part, if not the whole, of the land belonging to that tribe eastward of that river in the States of North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee, and in the Alabama Territory will soon be acquired. By these acquisitions, and others that may reasonably be expected soon to follow, we shall be enabled to extend our settlements from the inhabited parts of the State of Ohio along Lake Erie into the Michigan Territory, and to connect our settlements by degrees through the State of Indiana and the Illinois Territory to that of Missouri. A similar and equally advantageous effect will soon be produced to the south, through the whole extent of the States and territory which border on the waters emptying into the Mississippi and the Mobile. In this progress, which the rights of nature demand and nothing can prevent, marking a growth rapid and gigantic, it is our duty to make new efforts for the preservation, improvement, and civilization of the native inhabitants. The hunter state can exist only in the vast uncultivated desert. It yields to the more dense and compact form and greater force of civilized population; and of right it ought to yield, for the earth was given to mankind to support the greatest number of which it is capable, and no tribe or people have a right to withhold from the wants of others more than is necessary for their own support and comfort. It is gratifying to know that the reservations of land made by the treaties with the tribes on Lake Erie were made with a view to individual ownership among them and to the cultivation of the soil by all, and that an annual stipend has been pledged to supply their other wants. It will merit the consideration of Congress whether other provision not stipulated by treaty ought to be made for these tribes and for the advancement of the liberal and humane policy of the United States toward all the tribes within our limits, and more particularly for their improvement in the arts of civilized life. Among the advantages incident to these purchases, and to those which have preceded, the security which may thereby be afforded to our inland frontiers is peculiarly important. With a strong barrier, consisting of our own people, thus planted on the Lakes, the Mississippi, and the Mobile, with the protection to be derived from the regular force, Indian hostilities, if they do not altogether cease, will henceforth lose their terror. Fortifications in those quarters to any extent will not be necessary, and the expense of attending them may be saved. A people accustomed to the use of firearms only, as the Indian tribes are, will shun even moderate works which are defended by cannon. Great fortifications will therefore be requisite only in future along the coast and at some points in the interior connected with it. On these will the safety of our towns and the commerce of our great rivers, from the Bay of Fundy to the Mississippi, depend. On these, therefore, should the utmost attention, skill, and labor be bestowed. A considerable and rapid augmentation in the value of all the public lands, proceeding from these and other obvious cases, may henceforward be expected. The difficulties attending early emigrations will be dissipated even in the most remote parts. Several new States have been admitted into our Union to the west and south, and Territorial governments, happily organized, established over every other portion in which there is vacant land for sale. In terminating Indian hostilities, as must soon be done, in a formidable shape at least, the emigration, which has heretofore been great, will probably increase, and the demand for land and the augmentation in its value be in like proportion. The great increase of our population throughout the Union will alone produce an important effect, and in no quarter will it be so sensibly felt as in those in contemplation. The public lands are a public stock, which ought to be disposed of to the best advantage for the nation. The nation should therefore derive the profit proceeding from the continual rise in their value. Every encouragement should be given to the emigrants consistent with a fair competition between them, but that competition should operate in the first sale to the advantage of the nation rather than of individuals. Great capitalists will derive the benefit incident to their superior wealth under any mode of sale which may be adopted, but if, looking forward to the rise in the value of the public lands, they should have the opportunity of amassing at a low price vast bodies in their hands, the profit will accrue to them and not to the public. They would also have the power in that degree to control the emigration and settlement in such a manner as their opinion of their respective interests might dictate. I submit this subject to the consideration of Congress, that such further provision may be made in the sale of the public lands, with a view to the public interest, should any be deemed expedient, as in their judgment may be best adapted to the object. When we consider the vast extent of territory within the United States, the great amount and value of its productions, the connection of its parts, and other circumstances on which their prosperity and happiness depend, we can not fail to entertain a high sense of the advantage to be derived from the facility which may be afforded in the intercourse between them by means of good roads and canals. Never did a country of such vast extent offer equal inducements to improvements of this kind, nor ever were consequences of such magnitude involved in them. As this subject was acted on by Congress at the last session, and there may be a disposition to revive it at the present, I have brought it into view for the purpose of communicating my sentiments on a very important circumstance connected with it with that freedom and candor which a regard for the public interest and a proper respect for Congress require. A difference of opinion has existed from the first formation of our Constitution to the present time among our most enlightened and virtuous citizens respecting the right of Congress to establish such a system of improvement. Taking into view the trust with which I am now honored, it would be improper after what has passed that this discussion should be revived with an uncertainty of my opinion respecting the right. Disregarding early impressions I have bestowed on the subject all the deliberation which its great importance and a just sense of my duty required, and the result is a settled conviction in my mind that Congress do not possess the right. It is not contained in any of the specified powers granted to Congress, nor can I consider it incidental to or a necessary means, viewed on the most liberal scale, for carrying into effect any of the powers which are specifically granted. In communicating this result I can not resist the obligation which I feel to suggest to Congress the propriety of recommending to the States the adoption of an amendment to the Constitution which shall give to Congress the right in question. In cases of doubtful construction, especially of such vital interest, it comports with the nature and origin of our institutions, and will contribute much to preserve them, to apply to our constituents for an explicit grant of the power. We may confidently rely that if it appears to their satisfaction that the power is necessary, it will always be granted. In this case I am happy to observe that experience has afforded the most ample proof of its utility, and that the benign spirit of conciliation and harmony which now manifests itself throughout our Union promises to such a recommendation the most prompt and favorable result. I think proper to suggest also, in case this measure is adopted, that it be recommended to the States to include in the amendment sought a right in Congress to institute likewise seminaries of learning, for the all-important purpose of diffusing knowledge among our fellow-citizens throughout the United States. Our manufactories will require the continued attention of Congress. The capital employed in them is considerable, and the knowledge acquired in the machinery and fabric of all the most useful manufactures is of great value. Their preservation, which depends on due encouragement, is connected with the high interests of the nation. Although the progress of the public buildings has been as favorable as circumstances have permitted, it is to be regretted that the Capitol is not yet in a state to receive you. There is good cause to presume that the two wings, the only parts as yet commenced, will be prepared for that purpose at the next session. The time seems now to have arrived when this subject may be deemed worthy the attention of Congress on a scale adequate to national purposes. The completion of the middle building will be necessary to the convenient accommodation of Congress, of the committees, and various offices belonging to it. It is evident that the other public buildings are altogether insufficient for the accommodation of the several Executive Departments, some of whom are much crowded and even subjected to the necessity of obtaining it in private buildings at some distance from the head of the Dep't, and with inconvenience to the management of the public business. Most nations have taken an interest and a pride in the improvement and ornament of their metropolis, and none were more conspicuous in that respect than the ancient republics. The policy which dictated the establishment of a permanent residence for the National Government and the spirit in which it was commenced and has been prosecuted show that such improvement was thought worthy the attention of this nation. Its central position, between the northern and southern extremes of our Union, and its approach to the west at the head of a great navigable river which interlocks with the Western waters, prove the wisdom of the councils which established it. Nothing appears to be more reasonable and proper than that convenient accommodation should be provided on a well-digested plan for the heads of the several Departments and for the Attorney-General, and it is believed that the public ground in the city applied to these objects will be found amply sufficient. I submit this subject to the consideration of Congress, that such further provision may be made in it as to them may seem proper. It is contemplating the happy situation of the United States, our attention is drawn with peculiar interest to the surviving officers and soldiers of our Revolutionary army, who so eminently contributed by their services to lay its foundation. Most of those very meritorious citizens have paid the debt of nature and gone to repose. It is believed that among the survivors there are some not provided for by existing laws, who are reduced to indigence and even to real distress. These man have a claim on the gratitude of their country, and it will do honor to their country to provide for them. The lapse of a few years more and the opportunity will be forever lost; indeed, so long already has been the interval that the number to be benefitted by any provision which may be made will not be great. It appearing in a satisfactory manner that the revenue arising from imposts and tonnage and from the sale of the public lands will be fully adequate to the support of the civil Government, of the present military and naval establishments, including the annual augmentation of the latter to the extent provided for, to the payment of the interest of the public debt, and to the extinguishment of it at the times authorized, without the aid of the internal taxes, I consider it my duty to recommend to Congress their repeal. To impose taxes when the public exigencies require them is an obligation of the most sacred character, especially with a free people. The faithful fulfillment of it is among the highest proofs of their value and capacity for self-government. To dispense with taxes when it may be done with perfect safety is equally the duty of their representatives. In this instance we have the satisfaction to know that they were imposed when the demand was imperious, and have been sustained with exemplary fidelity. I have to add that however gratifying it may be to me regarding the prosperous and happy condition of our country to recommend the repeal of these taxes at this time, I shall nevertheless be attentive to events, and, should any future emergency occur, be not less prompt to suggest such measures and burdens as may then be requisite and proper. JAMES MONROE
At no period of our political existence had we so much because to felicitate ourselves at the prosperous and happy condition of our country. The abundant fruits of the earth have filled it with plenty. An extensive and profitable commerce has greatly augmented our revenue. The public credit has attained an extraordinary elevation. Our preparations for defense in case of future wars, from which, by the experience of all nations, we ought not to expect to be exempted, are advancing under a well-digested system with all the dispatch which so important a work will admit. Our free Government, founded on the interest and affections of the people, has gained and is daily gaining strength. Local jealousies are rapidly yielding to more generous, enlarged, and enlightened views of national policy. For advantages so numerous and highly important it is our duty to unite in grateful acknowledgements to that Omnipotent Being from whom they are derived, and in unceasing prayer that He will endow us with virtue and strength to maintain and hand them down in their utmost purity to our latest posterity. I have the satisfaction to inform you that an arrangement which had been commenced by my predecessor with the British Government for the reduction of the naval force by Great Britain and the United States on the Lakes has been concluded, by which it is provided that neither party shall keep in service on Lake Champlain more than one vessel, on Lake Ontario more than one, and on Lake Erie and the upper lakes more than two, to be armed each with one cannon only, and that all the other armed vessels of both parties, of which an exact list is interchanged, shall be dismantled. It is also agreed that the force retained shall be restricted in its duty to the internal purposes of each party, and that the arrangement shall remain in force until six months shall have expired after notice given by one of the parties to the other of its desire that it should terminate. By this arrangement useless expense on both sides and, what is of still greater importance, the danger of collision between armed vessels in those inland waters, which was great, is prevented. I have the satisfaction also to state that the commissioners under the fourth article of the treaty of Ghent, to whom it was referred to decide to which party the several islands in the bay of Passamaquoddy belonged under the treaty of 1783, have agreed in a report, by which all the islands in the possession of each party before the late war have been decreed to it. The commissioners acting under the other articles of the treaty of Ghent for the settlement of boundaries have also been engaged in the discharge of their respective duties, but have not yet completed them. The difference which arose between the two Governments under that treaty respecting the right of the US to take and cure fish on the coast of the British provinces north of our limits, which had been secured by the treaty of 1783, is still in negotiation. The proposition made by this Government to extend to the colonies of GB the principle of the convention of London, by which the commerce between the ports of the United States and British ports in Europe had been placed on a footing of equality, has been declined by the British Government. This subject having been thus amicably discussed between the two Governments, and it appearing that the British Government is unwilling to depart from its present regulations, it remains for Congress to decide whether they will make any other regulations in consequence thereof for the protection and improvement of our navigation. The negotiation with Spain for spoliations on our commerce and the settlement of boundaries remains essentially in the state it held by the communications that were made to Congress by my predecessor. It has been evidently the policy of the Spanish Gov't to keep the negotiation suspended, and in this the United States have acquiesced, from an amicable disposition toward Spain and in the expectation that her Government would, from a sense of justice, finally accede to such an arrangement as would be equal between the parties. A disposition has been lately shown by the Spanish Government to move in the negotiation, which has been met by this Government, and should the conciliatory and friendly policy which has invariably guided our councils be reciprocated, a just and satisfactory arrangement may be expected. It is proper, however, to remark that no proposition has yet been made from which such a result can be presumed. It was anticipated at an early stage that the contest between Spain and the colonies would become highly interesting to the United States. It was natural that our citizens should sympathize in events which affected their neighbors. It seemed probable also that the prosecution of the conflict along our coast and in contiguous countries would occasionally interrupt our commerce and otherwise affect the persons and property of our citizens. These anticipations have been realized. Such injuries have been received from persons acting under authority of both the parties, and for which redress has in most instances been withheld. Through every stage of the conflict the United States have maintained an impartial neutrality, giving aid to neither of the parties in men, money, ships, or munitions of war. They have regarded the contest not in the light of an ordinary insurrection or rebellion, but as a civil war between parties nearly equal, having as to neutral powers equal rights. Our ports have been open to both, and every article the fruit of our soil or of the industry of our citizens which either was permitted to take has been equally free to the other. Should the colonies establish their independence, it is proper now to state that this Government neither seeks nor would accept from them any advantage in commerce or otherwise which will not be equally open to all other nations. The colonies will in that event become independent states, free from any obligation to or connection with us which it may not then be their interest to form on the basis of a fair reciprocity. In the summer of the present year an expedition was set on foot against East Florida by persons claiming to act under the authority of some of the colonies, who took possession of Amelia Island, at the mouth of the St. Marys River, near the boundary of the State of Georgia. As this Province lies eastward of the Mississippi, and is bounded by the United States and the ocean on every side, and has been a subject of negotiation with the Government of Spain as an indemnity for losses by spoliation or in exchange for territory of equal value westward of the Mississippi, a fact well known to the world, it excited surprise that any countenance should be given to this measure by any of the colonies. As it would be difficult to reconcile it with the friendly relations existing between the United States and the colonies, a doubt was entertained whether it had been authorized by them, or any of them. This doubt has gained strength by the circumstances which have unfolded themselves in the prosecution of the enterprise, which have marked it as a mere private, unauthorized adventure. Projected and commenced with an incompetent force, reliance seems to have been placed on what might be drawn, in defiance of our laws, from within our limits; and of late, as their resources have failed, it has assumed a more marked character of unfriendliness to us, the island being made a channel for the illicit introduction of slaves from Africa into the United States, an asylum for fugitive slaves from the neighboring States, and a port for smuggling of every kind. A similar establishment was made at an earlier period by persons of the same description in the Gulf of Mexico at a place called Galvezton, within the limits of the United States, as we contend, under the cession of Louisiana. This enterprise has been marked in a more signal manner by all the objectionable circumstances which characterized the other, and more particularly by the equipment of privateers which have annoyed our commerce, and by smuggling. These establishments, if ever sanctioned by any authority whatever, which is not believed, have abused their trust and forfeited all claim to consideration. A just regard for the rights and interests of the United States required that they should be suppressed, and orders have been accordingly issued to that effect. The imperious considerations which produced this measure will be explained to the parties whom it may in any degree concern. To obtain correct information on every subject in which the United States are interested; to inspire just sentiments in all persons in authority, on either side, of our friendly disposition so far as it may comport with an impartial neutrality, and to secure proper respect to our commerce in every port and from every flag, it has been thought proper to send a ship of war with three distinguished citizens along the southern coast with these purpose. With the existing authorities, with those in the possession of and exercising the sovereignty, must the communication be held; from them alone can redress for past injuries committed by persons acting under them be obtained; by them alone can the commission of the like in future be prevented. Our relations with the other powers of Europe have experienced no essential change since the last session. In our intercourse with each due attention continues to be paid to the protection of our commerce, and to every other object in which the United States are interested. A strong hope is entertained that, by adhering to the maxims of a just, a candid, and friendly policy, we may long preserve amicable relations with all the powers of Europe on conditions advantageous and honorable to our country. With the Barbary States and the Indian tribes our pacific relations have been preserved. In calling your attention to the internal concerns of our country the view which they exhibit is peculiarly gratifying. The payments which have been made into the Treasury show the very productive state of the public revenue. After satisfying the appropriations made by law for the support of the civil Government and of the military and naval establishments, embracing suitable provision for fortifications and for the gradual increase of the Navy, paying the interest of the public debt, and extinguishing more than $18M of the principal, within the present year, it is estimated that a balance of more than $6M will remain in the Treasury on the first day of January applicable to the current service of the ensuing year. The payments into the Treasury during the year 1818 on account of imposts and tonnage, resulting principally from duties which have accrued in the present year, may be fairly estimated at $20M; the internal revenues at $2.5M; the public lands at $1.5M; bank dividends and incidental receipts at $500,000; making in the whole $24.5M. The annual permanent expenditure for the support of the civil Government and of the Army and Navy, as now established by law, amounts to $11.8M, and for the sinking fund to $10M, making in the whole $21.8M, leaving an annual excess of revenue beyond the expenditure of $2.7M, exclusive of the balance estimated to be in the Treasury on the first day of January, 1818. In the present state of the Treasury the whole of the Louisiana debt may be redeemed in the year 1819, after which, if the public debt continues as it now is, above par, there will be annually about $5M of the sinking fund unexpended until the year 1825, when the loan of 1812 and the stock created by funding Treasury notes will be redeemable. It is also estimated that the Mississippi stock will be discharged during the year 1819 from the proceeds of the public lands assigned to that object, after which the receipts from those lands will annually add to the public revenue the sum of $1.5M, making the permanent annual revenue amount to $26M, and leaving an annual excess of revenue after the year 1819 beyond the permanent authorized expenditure of more than $4M. By the last returns to the Department of War the militia force of the several States may be estimated at 800,000 men - infantry, artillery, and cavalry. Great part of this force is armed, and measures are taken to arm the whole. An improvement in the organization and discipline of the militia is one of the great objects which claims the unremitted attention of Congress. The regular force amounts nearly to the number required by law, and is stationed along the Atlantic and inland frontiers. Of the naval force it has been necessary to maintain strong squadrons in the Mediterranean and in the Gulf of Mexico. From several of the Indian tribes inhabiting the country bordering on Lake Erie purchases have been made of lands on conditions very favorable to the United States, and, as it is presumed, not less so to the tribes themselves. By these purchases the Indian title, with moderate reservations, has been extinguished to the whole of the land within the limits of the State of Ohio, and to a part of that in the Michigan Territory and of the State of Indiana. From the Cherokee tribe a tract has been purchased in the State of Georgia and an arrangement made by which, in exchange for lands beyond the Mississippi, a great part, if not the whole, of the land belonging to that tribe eastward of that river in the States of North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee, and in the Alabama Territory will soon be acquired. By these acquisitions, and others that may reasonably be expected soon to follow, we shall be enabled to extend our settlements from the inhabited parts of the State of Ohio along Lake Erie into the Michigan Territory, and to connect our settlements by degrees through the State of Indiana and the Illinois Territory to that of Missouri. A similar and equally advantageous effect will soon be produced to the south, through the whole extent of the States and territory which border on the waters emptying into the Mississippi and the Mobile. In this progress, which the rights of nature demand and nothing can prevent, marking a growth rapid and gigantic, it is our duty to make new efforts for the preservation, improvement, and civilization of the native inhabitants. The hunter state can exist only in the vast uncultivated desert. It yields to the more dense and compact form and greater force of civilized population; and of right it ought to yield, for the earth was given to mankind to support the greatest number of which it is capable, and no tribe or people have a right to withhold from the wants of others more than is necessary for their own support and comfort. It is gratifying to know that the reservations of land made by the treaties with the tribes on Lake Erie were made with a view to individual ownership among them and to the cultivation of the soil by all, and that an annual stipend has been pledged to supply their other wants. It will merit the consideration of Congress whether other provision not stipulated by treaty ought to be made for these tribes and for the advancement of the liberal and humane policy of the United States toward all the tribes within our limits, and more particularly for their improvement in the arts of civilized life. Among the advantages incident to these purchases, and to those which have preceded, the security which may thereby be afforded to our inland frontiers is peculiarly important. With a strong barrier, consisting of our own people, thus planted on the Lakes, the Mississippi, and the Mobile, with the protection to be derived from the regular force, Indian hostilities, if they do not altogether cease, will henceforth lose their terror. Fortifications in those quarters to any extent will not be necessary, and the expense of attending them may be saved. A people accustomed to the use of firearms only, as the Indian tribes are, will shun even moderate works which are defended by cannon. Great fortifications will therefore be requisite only in future along the coast and at some points in the interior connected with it. On these will the safety of our towns and the commerce of our great rivers, from the Bay of Fundy to the Mississippi, depend. On these, therefore, should the utmost attention, skill, and labor be bestowed. A considerable and rapid augmentation in the value of all the public lands, proceeding from these and other obvious cases, may henceforward be expected. The difficulties attending early emigrations will be dissipated even in the most remote parts. Several new States have been admitted into our Union to the west and south, and Territorial governments, happily organized, established over every other portion in which there is vacant land for sale. In terminating Indian hostilities, as must soon be done, in a formidable shape at least, the emigration, which has heretofore been great, will probably increase, and the demand for land and the augmentation in its value be in like proportion. The great increase of our population throughout the Union will alone produce an important effect, and in no quarter will it be so sensibly felt as in those in contemplation. The public lands are a public stock, which ought to be disposed of to the best advantage for the nation. The nation should therefore derive the profit proceeding from the continual rise in their value. Every encouragement should be given to the emigrants consistent with a fair competition between them, but that competition should operate in the first sale to the advantage of the nation rather than of individuals. Great capitalists will derive the benefit incident to their superior wealth under any mode of sale which may be adopted, but if, looking forward to the rise in the value of the public lands, they should have the opportunity of amassing at a low price vast bodies in their hands, the profit will accrue to them and not to the public. They would also have the power in that degree to control the emigration and settlement in such a manner as their opinion of their respective interests might dictate. I submit this subject to the consideration of Congress, that such further provision may be made in the sale of the public lands, with a view to the public interest, should any be deemed expedient, as in their judgment may be best adapted to the object. When we consider the vast extent of territory within the United States, the great amount and value of its productions, the connection of its parts, and other circumstances on which their prosperity and happiness depend, we can not fail to entertain a high sense of the advantage to be derived from the facility which may be afforded in the intercourse between them by means of good roads and canals. Never did a country of such vast extent offer equal inducements to improvements of this kind, nor ever were consequences of such magnitude involved in them. As this subject was acted on by Congress at the last session, and there may be a disposition to revive it at the present, I have brought it into view for the purpose of communicating my sentiments on a very important circumstance connected with it with that freedom and candor which a regard for the public interest and a proper respect for Congress require. A difference of opinion has existed from the first formation of our Constitution to the present time among our most enlightened and virtuous citizens respecting the right of Congress to establish such a system of improvement. Taking into view the trust with which I am now honored, it would be improper after what has passed that this discussion should be revived with an uncertainty of my opinion respecting the right. Disregarding early impressions I have bestowed on the subject all the deliberation which its great importance and a just sense of my duty required, and the result is a settled conviction in my mind that Congress do not possess the right. It is not contained in any of the specified powers granted to Congress, nor can I consider it incidental to or a necessary means, viewed on the most liberal scale, for carrying into effect any of the powers which are specifically granted. In communicating this result I can not resist the obligation which I feel to suggest to Congress the propriety of recommending to the States the adoption of an amendment to the Constitution which shall give to Congress the right in question. In cases of doubtful construction, especially of such vital interest, it comports with the nature and origin of our institutions, and will contribute much to preserve them, to apply to our constituents for an explicit grant of the power. We may confidently rely that if it appears to their satisfaction that the power is necessary, it will always be granted. In this case I am happy to observe that experience has afforded the most ample proof of its utility, and that the benign spirit of conciliation and harmony which now manifests itself throughout our Union promises to such a recommendation the most prompt and favorable result. I think proper to suggest also, in case this measure is adopted, that it be recommended to the States to include in the amendment sought a right in Congress to institute likewise seminaries of learning, for the all-important purpose of diffusing knowledge among our fellow-citizens throughout the United States. Our manufactories will require the continued attention of Congress. The capital employed in them is considerable, and the knowledge acquired in the machinery and fabric of all the most useful manufactures is of great value. Their preservation, which depends on due encouragement, is connected with the high interests of the nation. Although the progress of the public buildings has been as favorable as circumstances have permitted, it is to be regretted that the Capitol is not yet in a state to receive you. There is good because to presume that the two wings, the only parts as yet commenced, will be prepared for that purpose at the next session. The time seems now to have arrived when this subject may be deemed worthy the attention of Congress on a scale adequate to national purposes. The completion of the middle building will be necessary to the convenient accommodation of Congress, of the committees, and various offices belonging to it. It is evident that the other public buildings are altogether insufficient for the accommodation of the several Executive Departments, some of whom are much crowded and even subjected to the necessity of obtaining it in private buildings at some distance from the head of the Dep't, and with inconvenience to the management of the public business. Most nations have taken an interest and a pride in the improvement and ornament of their metropolis, and none were more conspicuous in that respect than the ancient republics. The policy which dictated the establishment of a permanent residence for the National Government and the spirit in which it was commenced and has been prosecuted show that such improvement was thought worthy the attention of this nation. Its central position, between the northern and southern extremes of our Union, and its approach to the west at the head of a great navigable river which interlocks with the Western waters, prove the wisdom of the councils which established it. Nothing appears to be more reasonable and proper than that convenient accommodation should be provided on a well-digested plan for the heads of the several Departments and for the Attorney-General, and it is believed that the public ground in the city applied to these objects will be found amply sufficient. I submit this subject to the consideration of Congress, that such further provision may be made in it as to them may seem proper. It is contemplating the happy situation of the United States, our attention is drawn with peculiar interest to the surviving officers and soldiers of our Revolutionary army, who so eminently contributed by their services to lay its foundation. Most of those very meritorious citizens have paid the debt of nature and gone to repose. It is believed that among the survivors there are some not provided for by existing laws, who are reduced to indigence and even to real distress. These man have a claim on the gratitude of their country, and it will do honor to their country to provide for them. The lapse of a few years more and the opportunity will be forever lost; indeed, so long already has been the interval that the number to be benefitted by any provision which may be made will not be great. It appearing in a satisfactory manner that the revenue arising from imposts and tonnage and from the sale of the public lands will be fully adequate to the support of the civil Government, of the present military and naval establishments, including the annual augmentation of the latter to the extent provided for, to the payment of the interest of the public debt, and to the extinguishment of it at the times authorized, without the aid of the internal taxes, I consider it my duty to recommend to Congress their repeal. To impose taxes when the public exigencies require them is an obligation of the most sacred character, especially with a free people. The faithful fulfillment of it is among the highest proofs of their value and capacity for self-government. To dispense with taxes when it may be done with perfect safety is equally the duty of their representatives. In this instance we have the satisfaction to know that they were imposed when the demand was imperious, and have been sustained with exemplary fidelity. I have to add that however gratifying it may be to me regarding the prosperous and happy condition of our country to recommend the repeal of these taxes at this time, I shall nevertheless be attentive to events, and, should any future emergency occur, be not less prompt to suggest such measures and burdens as may then be requisite and proper. JAMES MONROE
at no period of our political existence had we so much because to felicitate ourselves at the prosperous and happy condition of our country the abundant fruits of the earth have filled it with plenty an extensive and profitable commerce has greatly augmented our revenue the public credit has attained an extraordinary elevation our preparations for defense in case of future wars from which by the experience of all nations we ought not to expect to be exempted are advancing under a system with all the dispatch which so important a work will admit our free government founded on the interest and affections of the people has gained and is daily gaining strength local jealousies are rapidly yielding to more generous enlarged and enlightened views of national policy for advantages so numerous and highly important it is our duty to unite in grateful acknowledgements to that omnipotent being from whom they are derived and in unceasing prayer that he will endow us with virtue and strength to maintain and hand them down in their utmost purity to our latest posterity i have the satisfaction to inform you that an arrangement which had been commenced by my predecessor with the british government for the reduction of the naval force by great britain and the united states on the lakes has been concluded by which it is provided that neither party shall keep in service on lake champlain more than one vessel on lake ontario more than one and on lake erie and the upper lakes more than two to be armed each with one cannon only and that all the other armed vessels of both parties of which an exact list is interchanged shall be dismantled it is also agreed that the force retained shall be restricted in its duty to the internal purposes of each party and that the arrangement shall remain in force until six months shall have expired after notice given by one of the parties to the other of its desire that it should terminate by this arrangement useless expense on both sides and what is of still greater importance the danger of collision between armed vessels in those inland waters which was great is prevented i have the satisfaction also to state that the commissioners under the fourth article of the treaty of ghent to whom it was referred to decide to which party the several islands in the bay of passamaquoddy belonged under the treaty of 1783 have agreed in a report by which all the islands in the possession of each party before the late war have been decreed to it the commissioners acting under the other articles of the treaty of ghent for the settlement of boundaries have also been engaged in the discharge of their respective duties but have not yet completed them the difference which arose between the two governments under that treaty respecting the right of the us to take and cure fish on the coast of the british provinces north of our limits which had been secured by the treaty of 1783 is still in negotiation the proposition made by this government to extend to the colonies of gb the principle of the convention of london by which the commerce between the ports of the united states and british ports in europe had been placed on a footing of equality has been declined by the british government this subject having been thus amicably discussed between the two governments and it appearing that the british government is unwilling to depart from its present regulations it remains for congress to decide whether they will make any other regulations in consequence thereof for the protection and improvement of our navigation the negotiation with spain for spoliations on our commerce and the settlement of boundaries remains essentially in the state it held by the communications that were made to congress by my predecessor it has been evidently the policy of the spanish to keep the negotiation suspended and in this the united states have acquiesced from an amicable disposition toward spain and in the expectation that her government would from a sense of justice finally accede to such an arrangement as would be equal between the parties a disposition has been lately shown by the spanish government to move in the negotiation which has been met by this government and should the conciliatory and friendly policy which has invariably guided our councils be reciprocated a just and satisfactory arrangement may be expected it is proper however to remark that no proposition has yet been made from which such a result can be presumed it was anticipated at an early stage that the contest between spain and the colonies would become highly interesting to the united states it was natural that our citizens should sympathize in events which affected their neighbors it seemed probable also that the prosecution of the conflict along our coast and in contiguous countries would occasionally interrupt our commerce and otherwise affect the persons and property of our citizens these anticipations have been realized such injuries have been received from persons acting under authority of both the parties and for which redress has in most instances been withheld through every stage of the conflict the united states have maintained an impartial neutrality giving aid to neither of the parties in men money ships or munitions of war they have regarded the contest not in the light of an ordinary insurrection or rebellion but as a civil war between parties nearly equal having as to neutral powers equal rights our ports have been open to both and every article the fruit of our soil or of the industry of our citizens which either was permitted to take has been equally free to the other should the colonies establish their independence it is proper now to state that this government neither seeks nor would accept from them any advantage in commerce or otherwise which will not be equally open to all other nations the colonies will in that event become independent states free from any obligation to or connection with us which it may not then be their interest to form on the basis of a fair reciprocity in the summer of the present year an expedition was set on foot against east florida by persons claiming to act under the authority of some of the colonies who took possession of amelia island at the mouth of the marys river near the boundary of the state of georgia as this province lies eastward of the mississippi and is bounded by the united states and the ocean on every side and has been a subject of negotiation with the government of spain as an indemnity for losses by spoliation or in exchange for territory of equal value westward of the mississippi a fact well known to the world it excited surprise that any countenance should be given to this measure by any of the colonies as it would be difficult to reconcile it with the friendly relations existing between the united states and the colonies a doubt was entertained whether it had been authorized by them or any of them this doubt has gained strength by the circumstances which have unfolded themselves in the prosecution of the enterprise which have marked it as a mere private unauthorized adventure projected and commenced with an incompetent force reliance seems to have been placed on what might be drawn in defiance of our laws from within our limits and of late as their resources have failed it has assumed a more marked character of unfriendliness to us the island being made a channel for the illicit introduction of slaves from africa into the united states an asylum for fugitive slaves from the neighboring states and a port for smuggling of every kind a similar establishment was made at an earlier period by persons of the same description in the gulf of mexico at a place called galvezton within the limits of the united states as we contend under the cession of louisiana this enterprise has been marked in a more signal manner by all the objectionable circumstances which characterized the other and more particularly by the equipment of privateers which have annoyed our commerce and by smuggling these establishments if ever sanctioned by any authority whatever which is not believed have abused their trust and forfeited all claim to consideration a just regard for the rights and interests of the united states required that they should be suppressed and orders have been accordingly issued to that effect the imperious considerations which produced this measure will be explained to the parties whom it may in any degree concern to obtain correct information on every subject in which the united states are interested to inspire just sentiments in all persons in authority on either side of our friendly disposition so far as it may comport with an impartial neutrality and to secure proper respect to our commerce in every port and from every flag it has been thought proper to send a ship of war with three distinguished citizens along the southern coast with these purpose with the existing authorities with those in the possession of and exercising the sovereignty must the communication be held from them alone can redress for past injuries committed by persons acting under them be obtained by them alone can the commission of the like in future be prevented our relations with the other powers of europe have experienced no essential change since the last session in our intercourse with each due attention continues to be paid to the protection of our commerce and to every other object in which the united states are interested a strong hope is entertained that by adhering to the maxims of a just a candid and friendly policy we may long preserve amicable relations with all the powers of europe on conditions advantageous and honorable to our country with the barbary states and the indian tribes our pacific relations have been preserved in calling your attention to the internal concerns of our country the view which they exhibit is peculiarly gratifying the payments which have been made into the treasury show the very productive state of the public revenue after satisfying the appropriations made by law for the support of the civil government and of the military and naval establishments embracing suitable provision for fortifications and for the gradual increase of the navy paying the interest of the public debt and extinguishing more than 18m of the principal within the present year it is estimated that a balance of more than 6m will remain in the treasury on the first day of january applicable to the current service of the ensuing year the payments into the treasury during the year 1818 on account of imposts and tonnage resulting principally from duties which have accrued in the present year may be fairly estimated at 20m the internal revenues at the public lands at bank dividends and incidental receipts at making in the whole the annual permanent expenditure for the support of the civil government and of the army and navy as now established by law amounts to and for the sinking fund to 10m making in the whole leaving an annual excess of revenue beyond the expenditure of exclusive of the balance estimated to be in the treasury on the first day of january 1818 in the present state of the treasury the whole of the louisiana debt may be redeemed in the year 1819 after which if the public debt continues as it now is above par there will be annually about 5m of the sinking fund unexpended until the year 1825 when the loan of 1812 and the stock created by funding treasury notes will be redeemable it is also estimated that the mississippi stock will be discharged during the year 1819 from the proceeds of the public lands assigned to that object after which the receipts from those lands will annually add to the public revenue the sum of making the permanent annual revenue amount to 26m and leaving an annual excess of revenue after the year 1819 beyond the permanent authorized expenditure of more than 4m by the last returns to the department of war the militia force of the several states may be estimated at men infantry artillery and cavalry great part of this force is armed and measures are taken to arm the whole an improvement in the organization and discipline of the militia is one of the great objects which claims the unremitted attention of congress the regular force amounts nearly to the number required by law and is stationed along the atlantic and inland frontiers of the naval force it has been necessary to maintain strong squadrons in the mediterranean and in the gulf of mexico from several of the indian tribes inhabiting the country bordering on lake erie purchases have been made of lands on conditions very favorable to the united states and as it is presumed not less so to the tribes themselves by these purchases the indian title with moderate reservations has been extinguished to the whole of the land within the limits of the state of ohio and to a part of that in the michigan territory and of the state of indiana from the cherokee tribe a tract has been purchased in the state of georgia and an arrangement made by which in exchange for lands beyond the mississippi a great part if not the whole of the land belonging to that tribe eastward of that river in the states of north carolina georgia and tennessee and in the alabama territory will soon be acquired by these acquisitions and others that may reasonably be expected soon to follow we shall be enabled to extend our settlements from the inhabited parts of the state of ohio along lake erie into the michigan territory and to connect our settlements by degrees through the state of indiana and the illinois territory to that of missouri a similar and equally advantageous effect will soon be produced to the south through the whole extent of the states and territory which border on the waters emptying into the mississippi and the mobile in this progress which the rights of nature demand and nothing can prevent marking a growth rapid and gigantic it is our duty to make new efforts for the preservation improvement and civilization of the native inhabitants the hunter state can exist only in the vast uncultivated desert it yields to the more dense and compact form and greater force of civilized population and of right it ought to yield for the earth was given to mankind to support the greatest number of which it is capable and no tribe or people have a right to withhold from the wants of others more than is necessary for their own support and comfort it is gratifying to know that the reservations of land made by the treaties with the tribes on lake erie were made with a view to individual ownership among them and to the cultivation of the soil by all and that an annual stipend has been pledged to supply their other wants it will merit the consideration of congress whether other provision not stipulated by treaty ought to be made for these tribes and for the advancement of the liberal and humane policy of the united states toward all the tribes within our limits and more particularly for their improvement in the arts of civilized life among the advantages incident to these purchases and to those which have preceded the security which may thereby be afforded to our inland frontiers is peculiarly important with a strong barrier consisting of our own people thus planted on the lakes the mississippi and the mobile with the protection to be derived from the regular force indian hostilities if they do not altogether cease will henceforth lose their terror fortifications in those quarters to any extent will not be necessary and the expense of attending them may be saved a people accustomed to the use of firearms only as the indian tribes are will shun even moderate works which are defended by cannon great fortifications will therefore be requisite only in future along the coast and at some points in the interior connected with it on these will the safety of our towns and the commerce of our great rivers from the bay of fundy to the mississippi depend on these therefore should the utmost attention skill and labor be bestowed a considerable and rapid augmentation in the value of all the public lands proceeding from these and other obvious cases may henceforward be expected the difficulties attending early emigrations will be dissipated even in the most remote parts several new states have been admitted into our union to the west and south and territorial governments happily organized established over every other portion in which there is vacant land for sale in terminating indian hostilities as must soon be done in a formidable shape at least the emigration which has heretofore been great will probably increase and the demand for land and the augmentation in its value be in like proportion the great increase of our population throughout the union will alone produce an important effect and in no quarter will it be so sensibly felt as in those in contemplation the public lands are a public stock which ought to be disposed of to the best advantage for the nation the nation should therefore derive the profit proceeding from the continual rise in their value every encouragement should be given to the emigrants consistent with a fair competition between them but that competition should operate in the first sale to the advantage of the nation rather than of individuals great capitalists will derive the benefit incident to their superior wealth under any mode of sale which may be adopted but if looking forward to the rise in the value of the public lands they should have the opportunity of amassing at a low price vast bodies in their hands the profit will accrue to them and not to the public they would also have the power in that degree to control the emigration and settlement in such a manner as their opinion of their respective interests might dictate i submit this subject to the consideration of congress that such further provision may be made in the sale of the public lands with a view to the public interest should any be deemed expedient as in their judgment may be best adapted to the object when we consider the vast extent of territory within the united states the great amount and value of its productions the connection of its parts and other circumstances on which their prosperity and happiness depend we can not fail to entertain a high sense of the advantage to be derived from the facility which may be afforded in the intercourse between them by means of good roads and canals never did a country of such vast extent offer equal inducements to improvements of this kind nor ever were consequences of such magnitude involved in them as this subject was acted on by congress at the last session and there may be a disposition to revive it at the present i have brought it into view for the purpose of communicating my sentiments on a very important circumstance connected with it with that freedom and candor which a regard for the public interest and a proper respect for congress require a difference of opinion has existed from the first formation of our constitution to the present time among our most enlightened and virtuous citizens respecting the right of congress to establish such a system of improvement taking into view the trust with which i am now honored it would be improper after what has passed that this discussion should be revived with an uncertainty of my opinion respecting the right disregarding early impressions i have bestowed on the subject all the deliberation which its great importance and a just sense of my duty required and the result is a settled conviction in my mind that congress do not possess the right it is not contained in any of the specified powers granted to congress nor can i consider it incidental to or a necessary means viewed on the most liberal scale for carrying into effect any of the powers which are specifically granted in communicating this result i can not resist the obligation which i feel to suggest to congress the propriety of recommending to the states the adoption of an amendment to the constitution which shall give to congress the right in question in cases of doubtful construction especially of such vital interest it comports with the nature and origin of our institutions and will contribute much to preserve them to apply to our constituents for an explicit grant of the power we may confidently rely that if it appears to their satisfaction that the power is necessary it will always be granted in this case i am happy to observe that experience has afforded the most ample proof of its utility and that the benign spirit of conciliation and harmony which now manifests itself throughout our union promises to such a recommendation the most prompt and favorable result i think proper to suggest also in case this measure is adopted that it be recommended to the states to include in the amendment sought a right in congress to institute likewise seminaries of learning for the purpose of diffusing knowledge among our throughout the united states our manufactories will require the continued attention of congress the capital employed in them is considerable and the knowledge acquired in the machinery and fabric of all the most useful manufactures is of great value their preservation which depends on due encouragement is connected with the high interests of the nation although the progress of the public buildings has been as favorable as circumstances have permitted it is to be regretted that the capitol is not yet in a state to receive you there is good because to presume that the two wings the only parts as yet commenced will be prepared for that purpose at the next session the time seems now to have arrived when this subject may be deemed worthy the attention of congress on a scale adequate to national purposes the completion of the middle building will be necessary to the convenient accommodation of congress of the committees and various offices belonging to it it is evident that the other public buildings are altogether insufficient for the accommodation of the several executive departments some of whom are much crowded and even subjected to the necessity of obtaining it in private buildings at some distance from the head of the and with inconvenience to the management of the public business most nations have taken an interest and a pride in the improvement and ornament of their metropolis and none were more conspicuous in that respect than the ancient republics the policy which dictated the establishment of a permanent residence for the national government and the spirit in which it was commenced and has been prosecuted show that such improvement was thought worthy the attention of this nation its central position between the northern and southern extremes of our union and its approach to the west at the head of a great navigable river which interlocks with the western waters prove the wisdom of the councils which established it nothing appears to be more reasonable and proper than that convenient accommodation should be provided on a plan for the heads of the several departments and for the and it is believed that the public ground in the city applied to these objects will be found amply sufficient i submit this subject to the consideration of congress that such further provision may be made in it as to them may seem proper it is contemplating the happy situation of the united states our attention is drawn with peculiar interest to the surviving officers and soldiers of our revolutionary army who so eminently contributed by their services to lay its foundation most of those very meritorious citizens have paid the debt of nature and gone to repose it is believed that among the survivors there are some not provided for by existing laws who are reduced to indigence and even to real distress these man have a claim on the gratitude of their country and it will do honor to their country to provide for them the lapse of a few years more and the opportunity will be forever lost indeed so long already has been the interval that the number to be benefitted by any provision which may be made will not be great it appearing in a satisfactory manner that the revenue arising from imposts and tonnage and from the sale of the public lands will be fully adequate to the support of the civil government of the present military and naval establishments including the annual augmentation of the latter to the extent provided for to the payment of the interest of the public debt and to the extinguishment of it at the times authorized without the aid of the internal taxes i consider it my duty to recommend to congress their repeal to impose taxes when the public exigencies require them is an obligation of the most sacred character especially with a free people the faithful fulfillment of it is among the highest proofs of their value and capacity for to dispense with taxes when it may be done with perfect safety is equally the duty of their representatives in this instance we have the satisfaction to know that they were imposed when the demand was imperious and have been sustained with exemplary fidelity i have to add that however gratifying it may be to me regarding the prosperous and happy condition of our country to recommend the repeal of these taxes at this time i shall nevertheless be attentive to events and should any future emergency occur be not less prompt to suggest such measures and burdens as may then be requisite and proper james monroe
period political existence much felicitate prosperous happy condition country abundant fruits earth filled plenty extensive profitable commerce greatly augmented revenue public credit attained extraordinary elevation preparations defense case future wars experience nations ought expect exempted advancing system dispatch important work admit free government founded interest affections people gained daily gaining strength local jealousies rapidly yielding generous enlarged enlightened views national policy advantages numerous highly important duty unite grateful acknowledgements omnipotent derived unceasing prayer endow us virtue strength maintain hand utmost purity latest posterity satisfaction inform arrangement commenced predecessor british government reduction naval force great britain united states lakes concluded provided neither party shall keep service lake champlain one vessel lake ontario one lake erie upper lakes two armed one cannon armed vessels parties exact list interchanged shall dismantled also agreed force retained shall restricted duty internal purposes party arrangement shall remain force six months shall expired notice given one parties desire terminate arrangement useless expense sides still greater importance danger collision armed vessels inland waters great prevented satisfaction also state commissioners fourth article treaty ghent referred decide party several islands bay passamaquoddy belonged treaty 1783 agreed report islands possession party late war decreed commissioners acting articles treaty ghent settlement boundaries also engaged discharge respective duties yet completed difference arose two governments treaty respecting right us take cure fish coast british provinces north limits secured treaty 1783 still negotiation proposition made government extend colonies gb principle convention london commerce ports united states british ports europe placed footing equality declined british government subject thus amicably discussed two governments appearing british government unwilling depart present regulations remains congress decide whether make regulations consequence thereof protection improvement navigation negotiation spain spoliations commerce settlement boundaries remains essentially state held communications made congress predecessor evidently policy spanish keep negotiation suspended united states acquiesced amicable disposition toward spain expectation government would sense justice finally accede arrangement would equal parties disposition lately shown spanish government move negotiation met government conciliatory friendly policy invariably guided councils reciprocated satisfactory arrangement may expected proper however remark proposition yet made result presumed anticipated early stage contest spain colonies would become highly interesting united states natural citizens sympathize events affected neighbors seemed probable also prosecution conflict along coast contiguous countries would occasionally interrupt commerce otherwise affect persons property citizens anticipations realized injuries received persons acting authority parties redress instances withheld every stage conflict united states maintained impartial neutrality giving aid neither parties men money ships munitions war regarded contest light ordinary insurrection rebellion civil war parties nearly equal neutral powers equal rights ports open every article fruit soil industry citizens either permitted take equally free colonies establish independence proper state government neither seeks would accept advantage commerce otherwise equally open nations colonies event become independent states free obligation connection us may interest form basis fair reciprocity summer present year expedition set foot east florida persons claiming act authority colonies took possession amelia island mouth marys river near boundary state georgia province lies eastward mississippi bounded united states ocean every side subject negotiation government spain indemnity losses spoliation exchange territory equal value westward mississippi fact well known world excited surprise countenance given measure colonies would difficult reconcile friendly relations existing united states colonies doubt entertained whether authorized doubt gained strength circumstances unfolded prosecution enterprise marked mere private unauthorized adventure projected commenced incompetent force reliance seems placed might drawn defiance laws within limits late resources failed assumed marked character unfriendliness us island made channel illicit introduction slaves africa united states asylum fugitive slaves neighboring states port smuggling every kind similar establishment made earlier period persons description gulf mexico place called galvezton within limits united states contend cession louisiana enterprise marked signal manner objectionable circumstances characterized particularly equipment privateers annoyed commerce smuggling establishments ever sanctioned authority whatever believed abused trust forfeited claim consideration regard rights interests united states required suppressed orders accordingly issued effect imperious considerations produced measure explained parties may degree concern obtain correct information every subject united states interested inspire sentiments persons authority either side friendly disposition far may comport impartial neutrality secure proper respect commerce every port every flag thought proper send ship war three distinguished citizens along southern coast purpose existing authorities possession exercising sovereignty must communication held alone redress past injuries committed persons acting obtained alone commission like future prevented relations powers europe experienced essential change since last session intercourse due attention continues paid protection commerce every object united states interested strong hope entertained adhering maxims candid friendly policy may long preserve amicable relations powers europe conditions advantageous honorable country barbary states indian tribes pacific relations preserved calling attention internal concerns country view exhibit peculiarly gratifying payments made treasury show productive state public revenue satisfying appropriations made law support civil government military naval establishments embracing suitable provision fortifications gradual increase navy paying interest public debt extinguishing 18m principal within present year estimated balance 6m remain treasury first day january applicable current service ensuing year payments treasury year 1818 account imposts tonnage resulting principally duties accrued present year may fairly estimated 20m internal revenues public lands bank dividends incidental receipts making whole annual permanent expenditure support civil government army navy established law amounts sinking fund 10m making whole leaving annual excess revenue beyond expenditure exclusive balance estimated treasury first day january 1818 present state treasury whole louisiana debt may redeemed year 1819 public debt continues par annually 5m sinking fund unexpended year 1825 loan 1812 stock created funding treasury notes redeemable also estimated mississippi stock discharged year 1819 proceeds public lands assigned object receipts lands annually add public revenue sum making permanent annual revenue amount 26m leaving annual excess revenue year 1819 beyond permanent authorized expenditure 4m last returns department war militia force several states may estimated men infantry artillery cavalry great part force armed measures taken arm whole improvement organization discipline militia one great objects claims unremitted attention congress regular force amounts nearly number required law stationed along atlantic inland frontiers naval force necessary maintain strong squadrons mediterranean gulf mexico several indian tribes inhabiting country bordering lake erie purchases made lands conditions favorable united states presumed less tribes purchases indian title moderate reservations extinguished whole land within limits state ohio part michigan territory state indiana cherokee tribe tract purchased state georgia arrangement made exchange lands beyond mississippi great part whole land belonging tribe eastward river states north carolina georgia tennessee alabama territory soon acquired acquisitions others may reasonably expected soon follow shall enabled extend settlements inhabited parts state ohio along lake erie michigan territory connect settlements degrees state indiana illinois territory missouri similar equally advantageous effect soon produced south whole extent states territory border waters emptying mississippi mobile progress rights nature demand nothing prevent marking growth rapid gigantic duty make new efforts preservation improvement civilization native inhabitants hunter state exist vast uncultivated desert yields dense compact form greater force civilized population right ought yield earth given mankind support greatest number capable tribe people right withhold wants others necessary support comfort gratifying know reservations land made treaties tribes lake erie made view individual ownership among cultivation soil annual stipend pledged supply wants merit consideration congress whether provision stipulated treaty ought made tribes advancement liberal humane policy united states toward tribes within limits particularly improvement arts civilized life among advantages incident purchases preceded security may thereby afforded inland frontiers peculiarly important strong barrier consisting people thus planted lakes mississippi mobile protection derived regular force indian hostilities altogether cease henceforth lose terror fortifications quarters extent necessary expense attending may saved people accustomed use firearms indian tribes shun even moderate works defended cannon great fortifications therefore requisite future along coast points interior connected safety towns commerce great rivers bay fundy mississippi depend therefore utmost attention skill labor bestowed considerable rapid augmentation value public lands proceeding obvious cases may henceforward expected difficulties attending early emigrations dissipated even remote parts several new states admitted union west south territorial governments happily organized established every portion vacant land sale terminating indian hostilities must soon done formidable shape least emigration heretofore great probably increase demand land augmentation value like proportion great increase population throughout union alone produce important effect quarter sensibly felt contemplation public lands public stock ought disposed best advantage nation nation therefore derive profit proceeding continual rise value every encouragement given emigrants consistent fair competition competition operate first sale advantage nation rather individuals great capitalists derive benefit incident superior wealth mode sale may adopted looking forward rise value public lands opportunity amassing low price vast bodies hands profit accrue public would also power degree control emigration settlement manner opinion respective interests might dictate submit subject consideration congress provision may made sale public lands view public interest deemed expedient judgment may best adapted object consider vast extent territory within united states great amount value productions connection parts circumstances prosperity happiness depend fail entertain high sense advantage derived facility may afforded intercourse means good roads canals never country vast extent offer equal inducements improvements kind ever consequences magnitude involved subject acted congress last session may disposition revive present brought view purpose communicating sentiments important circumstance connected freedom candor regard public interest proper respect congress require difference opinion existed first formation constitution present time among enlightened virtuous citizens respecting right congress establish system improvement taking view trust honored would improper passed discussion revived uncertainty opinion respecting right disregarding early impressions bestowed subject deliberation great importance sense duty required result settled conviction mind congress possess right contained specified powers granted congress consider incidental necessary means viewed liberal scale carrying effect powers specifically granted communicating result resist obligation feel suggest congress propriety recommending states adoption amendment constitution shall give congress right question cases doubtful construction especially vital interest comports nature origin institutions contribute much preserve apply constituents explicit grant power may confidently rely appears satisfaction power necessary always granted case happy observe experience afforded ample proof utility benign spirit conciliation harmony manifests throughout union promises recommendation prompt favorable result think proper suggest also case measure adopted recommended states include amendment sought right congress institute likewise seminaries learning purpose diffusing knowledge among throughout united states manufactories require continued attention congress capital employed considerable knowledge acquired machinery fabric useful manufactures great value preservation depends due encouragement connected high interests nation although progress public buildings favorable circumstances permitted regretted capitol yet state receive good presume two wings parts yet commenced prepared purpose next session time seems arrived subject may deemed worthy attention congress scale adequate national purposes completion middle building necessary convenient accommodation congress committees various offices belonging evident public buildings altogether insufficient accommodation several executive departments much crowded even subjected necessity obtaining private buildings distance head inconvenience management public business nations taken interest pride improvement ornament metropolis none conspicuous respect ancient republics policy dictated establishment permanent residence national government spirit commenced prosecuted show improvement thought worthy attention nation central position northern southern extremes union approach west head great navigable river interlocks western waters prove wisdom councils established nothing appears reasonable proper convenient accommodation provided plan heads several departments believed public ground city applied objects found amply sufficient submit subject consideration congress provision may made may seem proper contemplating happy situation united states attention drawn peculiar interest surviving officers soldiers revolutionary army eminently contributed services lay foundation meritorious citizens paid debt nature gone repose believed among survivors provided existing laws reduced indigence even real distress man claim gratitude country honor country provide lapse years opportunity forever lost indeed long already interval number benefitted provision may made great appearing satisfactory manner revenue arising imposts tonnage sale public lands fully adequate support civil government present military naval establishments including annual augmentation latter extent provided payment interest public debt extinguishment times authorized without aid internal taxes consider duty recommend congress repeal impose taxes public exigencies require obligation sacred character especially free people faithful fulfillment among highest proofs value capacity dispense taxes may done perfect safety equally duty representatives instance satisfaction know imposed demand imperious sustained exemplary fidelity add however gratifying may regarding prosperous happy condition country recommend repeal taxes time shall nevertheless attentive events future emergency occur less prompt suggest measures burdens may requisite proper james monroe
period political existence much felicitate prosperous happy condition country abundant fruit earth fill plenty extensive profitable commerce greatly augment revenue public credit attain extraordinary elevation preparation defense case future war experience nation ought expect exempt advance system dispatch important work admit free government found interest affection people gain daily gain strength local jealousy rapidly yield generous enlarge enlighten view national policy advantage numerous highly important duty unite grateful acknowledgement omnipotent derive unceasing prayer endow u virtue strength maintain hand utmost purity late posterity satisfaction inform arrangement commence predecessor british government reduction naval force great britain united state lake conclude provide neither party shall keep service lake champlain one vessel lake ontario one lake erie upper lakes two arm one cannon arm vessel party exact list interchange shall dismantle also agree force retain shall restrict duty internal purpose party arrangement shall remain force six month shall expire notice give one party desire terminate arrangement useless expense side still great importance danger collision arm vessel inland water great prevented satisfaction also state commissioner fourth article treaty ghent refer decide party several island bay passamaquoddy belong treaty 1783 agree report island possession party late war decreed commissioner act article treaty ghent settlement boundary also engage discharge respective duty yet complete difference arise two government treaty respect right u take cure fish coast british province north limit secure treaty 1783 still negotiation proposition make government extend colony gb principle convention london commerce port unite state british port europe place footing equality decline british government subject thus amicably discuss two government appear british government unwilling depart present regulation remain congress decide whether make regulation consequence thereof protection improvement navigation negotiation spain spoliation commerce settlement boundary remain essentially state hold communication make congress predecessor evidently policy spanish keep negotiation suspend united state acquiesce amicable disposition toward spain expectation government would sense justice finally accede arrangement would equal party disposition lately show spanish government move negotiation meet government conciliatory friendly policy invariably guide council reciprocate satisfactory arrangement may expect proper however remark proposition yet make result presume anticipate early stage contest spain colony would become highly interesting united state natural citizen sympathize event affect neighbor seem probable also prosecution conflict along coast contiguous country would occasionally interrupt commerce otherwise affect person property citizen anticipation realize injury receive person act authority party redress instance withhold every stage conflict united state maintain impartial neutrality give aid neither party men money ship munition war regard contest light ordinary insurrection rebellion civil war party nearly equal neutral power equal right port open every article fruit soil industry citizens either permitted take equally free colony establish independence proper state government neither seek would accept advantage commerce otherwise equally open nation colony event become independent state free obligation connection u may interest form basis fair reciprocity summer present year expedition set foot east florida person claim act authority colony take possession amelia island mouth mary river near boundary state georgia province lie eastward mississippi bound united state ocean every side subject negotiation government spain indemnity loss spoliation exchange territory equal value westward mississippi fact well know world excite surprise countenance give measure colony would difficult reconcile friendly relation exist united state colony doubt entertain whether authorized doubt gain strength circumstance unfolded prosecution enterprise mark mere private unauthorized adventure project commence incompetent force reliance seem place might draw defiance law within limit late resource fail assumed marked character unfriendliness u island make channel illicit introduction slave africa united state asylum fugitive slave neighbor state port smuggle every kind similar establishment make early period person description gulf mexico place call galvezton within limit united state contend cession louisiana enterprise mark signal manner objectionable circumstance characterize particularly equipment privateer annoy commerce smuggling establishment ever sanction authority whatever believe abused trust forfeit claim consideration regard right interest united state require suppressed order accordingly issue effect imperious consideration produce measure explain party may degree concern obtain correct information every subject united state interested inspire sentiment person authority either side friendly disposition far may comport impartial neutrality secure proper respect commerce every port every flag think proper send ship war three distinguish citizen along southern coast purpose exist authority possession exercise sovereignty must communication hold alone redress past injury commit person act obtain alone commission like future prevent relation power europe experienced essential change since last session intercourse due attention continue pay protection commerce every object united state interested strong hope entertain adhere maxim candid friendly policy may long preserve amicable relation power europe condition advantageous honorable country barbary state indian tribe pacific relation preserve call attention internal concern country view exhibit peculiarly gratify payment make treasury show productive state public revenue satisfy appropriation make law support civil government military naval establishment embrace suitable provision fortification gradual increase navy pay interest public debt extinguish 18m principal within present year estimate balance 6m remain treasury first day january applicable current service ensue year payment treasury year 1818 account impost tonnage result principally duty accrue present year may fairly estimate 20m internal revenue public land bank dividend incidental receipt make whole annual permanent expenditure support civil government army navy establish law amount sink fund 10m make whole leave annual excess revenue beyond expenditure exclusive balance estimate treasury first day january 1818 present state treasury whole louisiana debt may redeem year 1819 public debt continue par annually 5m sink fund unexpended year 1825 loan 1812 stock create funding treasury note redeemable also estimate mississippi stock discharge year 1819 proceeds public land assign object receipt land annually add public revenue sum make permanent annual revenue amount 26m leave annual excess revenue year 1819 beyond permanent authorized expenditure 4m last return department war militia force several state may estimate men infantry artillery cavalry great part force arm measure take arm whole improvement organization discipline militia one great object claim unremitted attention congress regular force amount nearly number required law station along atlantic inland frontier naval force necessary maintain strong squadron mediterranean gulf mexico several indian tribe inhabit country border lake erie purchase make land condition favorable united state presume less tribes purchase indian title moderate reservation extinguish whole land within limit state ohio part michigan territory state indiana cherokee tribe tract purchase state georgia arrangement make exchange land beyond mississippi great part whole land belong tribe eastward river state north carolina georgia tennessee alabama territory soon acquire acquisition others may reasonably expect soon follow shall enable extend settlement inhabit part state ohio along lake erie michigan territory connect settlement degree state indiana illinois territory missouri similar equally advantageous effect soon produce south whole extent state territory border water empty mississippi mobile progress right nature demand nothing prevent mark growth rapid gigantic duty make new effort preservation improvement civilization native inhabitant hunter state exist vast uncultivated desert yield dense compact form great force civilize population right ought yield earth give mankind support great number capable tribe people right withhold want others necessary support comfort gratify know reservation land make treaty tribe lake erie make view individual ownership among cultivation soil annual stipend pledge supply want merit consideration congress whether provision stipulate treaty ought make tribes advancement liberal humane policy united state toward tribe within limit particularly improvement art civilize life among advantage incident purchase precede security may thereby afford inland frontier peculiarly important strong barrier consist people thus plant lake mississippi mobile protection derive regular force indian hostilities altogether cease henceforth lose terror fortification quarter extent necessary expense attending may save people accustom use firearm indian tribe shun even moderate work defend cannon great fortification therefore requisite future along coast point interior connect safety town commerce great river bay fundy mississippi depend therefore utmost attention skill labor bestow considerable rapid augmentation value public land proceed obvious case may henceforward expect difficulty attend early emigration dissipate even remote part several new state admit union west south territorial government happily organize establish every portion vacant land sale terminate indian hostility must soon do formidable shape least emigration heretofore great probably increase demand land augmentation value like proportion great increase population throughout union alone produce important effect quarter sensibly felt contemplation public land public stock ought dispose best advantage nation nation therefore derive profit proceed continual rise value every encouragement give emigrant consistent fair competition competition operate first sale advantage nation rather individual great capitalist derive benefit incident superior wealth mode sale may adopt look forward rise value public land opportunity amass low price vast body hand profit accrue public would also power degree control emigration settlement manner opinion respective interest might dictate submit subject consideration congress provision may make sale public land view public interest deem expedient judgment may best adapted object consider vast extent territory within united state great amount value production connection part circumstance prosperity happiness depend fail entertain high sense advantage derive facility may afford intercourse mean good road canal never country vast extent offer equal inducement improvement kind ever consequences magnitude involve subject act congress last session may disposition revive present bring view purpose communicate sentiment important circumstance connect freedom candor regard public interest proper respect congress require difference opinion exist first formation constitution present time among enlightened virtuous citizen respect right congress establish system improvement take view trust honor would improper pass discussion revive uncertainty opinion respect right disregard early impression bestow subject deliberation great importance sense duty require result settle conviction mind congress possess right contain specified power grant congress consider incidental necessary mean view liberal scale carry effect power specifically grant communicate result resist obligation feel suggest congress propriety recommend state adoption amendment constitution shall give congress right question case doubtful construction especially vital interest comports nature origin institution contribute much preserve apply constituent explicit grant power may confidently rely appear satisfaction power necessary always grant case happy observe experience afford ample proof utility benign spirit conciliation harmony manifest throughout union promise recommendation prompt favorable result think proper suggest also case measure adopt recommended state include amendment seek right congress institute likewise seminary learn purpose diffuse knowledge among throughout united state manufactory require continued attention congress capital employ considerable knowledge acquire machinery fabric useful manufacture great value preservation depend due encouragement connect high interest nation although progress public building favorable circumstance permit regretted capitol yet state receive good presume two wing part yet commence prepared purpose next session time seem arrive subject may deem worthy attention congress scale adequate national purpose completion middle building necessary convenient accommodation congress committee various office belong evident public building altogether insufficient accommodation several executive department much crowd even subject necessity obtain private building distance head inconvenience management public business nation take interest pride improvement ornament metropolis none conspicuous respect ancient republic policy dictate establishment permanent residence national government spirit commence prosecuted show improvement think worthy attention nation central position northern southern extreme union approach west head great navigable river interlock western water prove wisdom council establish nothing appear reasonable proper convenient accommodation provide plan head several department believe public ground city apply object find amply sufficient submit subject consideration congress provision may make may seem proper contemplate happy situation unite state attention drawn peculiar interest survive officer soldier revolutionary army eminently contribute service lay foundation meritorious citizen pay debt nature go repose believe among survivor provide exist law reduce indigence even real distress man claim gratitude country honor country provide lapse year opportunity forever lose indeed long already interval number benefit provision may make great appear satisfactory manner revenue arise impost tonnage sale public land fully adequate support civil government present military naval establishment include annual augmentation latter extent provide payment interest public debt extinguishment time authorize without aid internal tax consider duty recommend congress repeal impose tax public exigency require obligation sacred character especially free people faithful fulfillment among high proof value capacity dispense tax may do perfect safety equally duty representative instance satisfaction know impose demand imperious sustain exemplary fidelity add however gratify may regard prosperous happy condition country recommend repeal tax time shall nevertheless attentive event future emergency occur less prompt suggest measure burden may requisite proper james monroe