The embarrassments which have prevailed in our foreign relations, and so much employed the deliberations of Congress, make it a primary duty in meeting you to communicate whatever may have occurred in that branch of our national affairs. The act of the last session of Congress concerning the commercial intercourse between the United States and Great Britain and France and their dependencies having invited in a new form a termination of their edicts against our neutral commerce, copies of the act were immediately forwarded to our ministers at London and Paris, with a view that its object might be within the early attention of the French and British Governments. By the communication received through our minister at Paris it appeared that knowledge of the act by the French Government was followed by a declaration that the Berlin and Milan decrees were revoked, and would cease to have effect on the first day of November ensuing. These being the only known edicts of France within the description of the act, and the revocation of them being such that they ceased at that date to violate our neutral commerce, the fact, as prescribed by law, was announced by a proclamation bearing date the 2nd of November. It would have well accorded with the conciliatory views indicated by this proceeding on the part of France to have extended them to all the grounds of just complaint which now remain unadjusted with the United States. It was particularly anticipated that, as a further evidence of just dispositions toward them, restoration would have been immediately made of the property of our citizens under a misapplication of the principle of reprisals combined with a misconstruction of a law of the United States. This expectation has not been fulfilled. From the British Government no communication on the subject of the act has been received. To a communication from our minister at London of a revocation by the French Government of its Berlin and Milan decrees it was answered that the British system would be relinquished as soon as the repeal of the French decrees should have actually taken effect and the commerce of neutral nations have been restored to the condition in which it stood previously to the promulgation of those decrees. This pledge, although it does not necessarily import, does not exclude the intention of relinquishing, along with the others in council, the practice of those novel blockades which have a like effect of interrupting our neutral commerce, and this further justice to the United States is the rather to be looked for, in as much as the blockades in question, being not more contrary to the established law of nations than inconsistent with the rules of blockade formally recognized by Great Britain herself, could have no alleged basis other than the plea of retaliation alleged as the basis of the orders in council. Under the modification of the original orders of 1807 November, into the orders of 1809 April, there is, indeed, scarcely a nominal distinction between the orders and the blockades. One of those illegitimate blockades, bearing date in 1806 May, having been expressly avowed to be still unrescinded, and to be in effect comprehended in the orders in council, was too distinctly brought within the purview of the act of Congress not to be comprehended in the explanation of the requisites to a compliance with it. The British Government was accordingly apprised by our minister near it that such was the light in which the subject was to be regarded. On the other important subjects depending between the United States and the Government no progress has been made from which an early and satisfactory result can be relied on. In this new posture of our relations with those powers the consideration of Congress will be properly turned to a removal of doubts which may occur in the exposition and of difficulties in the execution of the act above cited. The commerce of the United States with the north of Europe, heretofore much vexed by licentious cruisers, particularly under the Danish flag, has latterly been visited with fresh and extensive depredations. The measures pursued in behalf of our injured citizens not having obtained justice for them, a further and more formal interposition with the Danish Government is contemplated. The principles which have been maintained by that Government in relation to neutral commerce, and the friendly professions of His Danish Majesty toward the United States, are valuable pledges in favor of a successful issue. Among the events growing out of the state of the Spanish Monarchy, our attention was imperiously attracted to the change developing itself in that portion of West Florida which, though of right appertaining to the United States, had remained in the possession of Spain awaiting the result of negotiations for its actual delivery to them. The Spanish authority was subverted and a situation produced exposing the country to ulterior events which might essentially affect the rights and welfare of the Union. In such a conjuncture I did not delay the interposition required for the occupancy of the territory west of the river Perdido, to which the title of the United States extends, and to which the laws provided for the Territory of Orleans are applicable. With this view, the proclamation of which a copy is laid before you was confided to the governor of that Territory to be carried into effect. The legality and necessity of the course pursued assure me of the favorable light in which it will present itself to the Legislature, and of the promptitude with which they will supply whatever provisions may be due to the essential rights and equitable interests of the people thus brought into the bosom of the American family. Our amity with the powers of Barbary, with the exception of a recent occurrence at Tunis, of which an explanation is just received, appears to have been uninterrupted and to have become more firmly established. With the Indian tribes also the peace and friendship of the United States are found to be so eligible that the general disposition to preserve both continues to gain strength. I feel particular satisfaction in remarking that an interior view of our country presents us with grateful proofs of its substantial and increasing prosperity. To a thriving agriculture and the improvements related to it is added a highly interesting extension of useful manufactures, the combined product of professional occupations and of household industry. Such indeed is the experience of economy as well as of policy in these substitutes for supplies heretofore obtained by foreign commerce that in a national view the change is justly regarded as of itself more than a recompense for those privations and losses resulting from foreign injustice which furnished the general impulse required for its accomplishment. How far it may be expedient to guard the infancy of this improvement in the distribution of labor by regulations of the commercial tariff is a subject which can not fail to suggest itself to your patriotic reflections. It will rest with the consideration of Congress also whether a provident as well as fair encouragement would not be given to our navigation by such regulations as would place it on a level of competition with foreign vessels, particularly in transporting the important and bulky productions of our own soil. The failure of equality and reciprocity in the existing regulations on this subject operates in our ports as a premium to foreign competitors, and the inconvenience must increase as these may be multiplied under more favorable circumstances by the more than countervailing encouragements now given them by the laws of their respective countries. Whilst it is universally admitted that a well-instructed people alone can be permanently a free people, and whilst it is evident that the means of diffusing and improving useful knowledge form so small a proportion of the expenditures for national purposes, I can not presume it to be unseasonable to invite your attention to the advantages of superadding to the means of education provided by the several States a seminary of learning instituted by the National Legislature within the limits of their exclusive jurisdiction, the expense of which might be defrayed or reimbursed out of the vacant grounds which have accrued to the nation within those limits. Such an institution, though local in its legal character, would be universal in its beneficial effects. By enlightening the opinions, by expanding the patriotism, and by assimilating the principles, the sentiments, and the manners of those who might resort to this temple of science, to be redistributed in due time through every part of the community, sources of jealousy and prejudice would be diminished, the features of national character would be multiplied, and greater extent given to social harmony. But, above all, a well- constituted seminary in the center of the nation is recommended by the consideration that the additional instruction emanating from it would contribute not less to strengthen the foundations than to adorn the structure of our free and happy system of government. Among the commercial abuses still committed under the American flag, and leaving in force my former reference to that subject, it appears that American citizens are instrumental in carrying on a traffic in enslaved Africans, equally in violation of the laws of humanity and in defiance of those of their own country. The same just and benevolent motives which produced interdiction in force against this criminal conduct will doubtless be felt by Congress in devising further means of suppressing the evil. In the midst of uncertainties necessarily connected with the great interests of the United States, prudence requires a continuance of our defensive and precautionary arrangement. The Secretary of War and Secretary of the Navy will submit the statements and estimates which may aid Congress in their ensuing provisions for the land and naval forces. The statements of the latter will include a view of the transfers of appropriations in the naval expenditures and in the grounds on which they were made. The fortifications for the defense of our maritime frontier have been prosecuted according to the plan laid down in 1808. The works, with some exceptions, are completed and furnished with ordnance. Those for the security of the city of New York, though far advanced toward completion, will require a further time and appropriation. This is the case with a few others, either not completed or in need of repairs. The improvements in quality and quantity made in the manufacture of cannon and small arms, both at the public armories and private factories, warrant additional confidence in the competency of these resources for supplying the public exigencies. These preparations for arming the militia having thus far provided for 1 of the objects contemplated by the power vested in Congress with respect to that great bulwark of the public safety, it is for their consideration whether further provisions are not requisite for the other contemplated objects of organization and discipline. To give to this great mass of physical and moral force the efficiency which it merits, and is capable of receiving, it is indispensable that they should be instructed and practiced in the rules by which they are to be governed. Toward an accomplishment of this important work I recommend for the consideration of Congress the expediency of instituting a system which shall in the first instance call into the field at the public expense and for a given time certain portions of the commissioned and non-commissioned officers. The instruction and discipline thus acquired would gradually diffuse through the entire body of the militia that practical knowledge and promptitude for active service which are the great ends to be pursued. Experience has left no doubt either of the necessity or of the efficacy of competent military skill in those portions of an army in fitting it for the final duties which it may have to perform. The Corps of Engineers, with the Military Academy, are entitled to the early attention of Congress. The buildings at the seat fixed by law for the present Academy are so far in decay as not to afford the necessary accommodation. But a revision of the law is recommended, principally with a view to a more enlarged cultivation and diffusion of the advantages of such institutions, by providing professorships for all the necessary branches of military instruction, and by the establishment of an additional academy at the seat of Government or elsewhere. The means by which war, as well for defense as for offense, are now carried on render these schools of the more scientific operations an indispensable part of every adequate system. Even among nations whose large standing armies and frequent wars afford every other opportunity of instruction these establishments are found to be indispensable for the due attainment of the branches of military science which require a regular course of study and experiment. In a government happily without the other opportunities seminaries where the elementary principles of the art of war can be taught without actual war, and without the expense of extensive and standing armies, have the precious advantage of uniting an essential preparation against external danger with a scrupulous regard to internal safety. In no other way, probably, can a provision of equal efficacy for the public defense be made at so little expense or more consistently with the public liberty. The receipts into the Treasury during the year ending on the 30th of September last (and amounting to more than $8.5M) have exceeded the current expenses of the Government, including the interest on the public debt. For the purpose of reimbursing at the end of the year $3.75 of the principal, a loan, as authorized by law, had been negotiated to that amount, but has since been reduced to $2.75M, the reduction being permitted by the state of the Treasury, in which there will be a balance remaining at the end of the year estimated at $2M. For the probably receipts of the next year and other details I refer to statements which will be transmitted from the Treasury, and which will enable you to judge what further provisions may be necessary for the ensuing years. Reserving for future occasions in the course of the session whatever other communications may claim your attention, I close the present by expressing my reliance, under the blessing of Divine Providence, on the judgement and patriotism which will guide your measures at a period particularly calling for united councils and flexible exertions for the welfare of our country, and by assuring you of the fidelity and alacrity with which my cooperation will be afforded.
The embarrassments which have prevailed in our foreign relations, and so much employed the deliberations of Congress, make it a primary duty in meeting you to communicate whatever may have occurred in that branch of our national affairs. The act of the last session of Congress concerning the commercial intercourse between the United States and Great Britain and France and their dependencies having invited in a new form a termination of their edicts against our neutral commerce, copies of the act were immediately forwarded to our ministers at London and Paris, with a view that its object might be within the early attention of the French and British Governments. By the communication received through our minister at Paris it appeared that knowledge of the act by the French Government was followed by a declaration that the Berlin and Milan decrees were revoked, and would cease to have effect on the first day of November ensuing. These being the only known edicts of France within the description of the act, and the revocation of them being such that they ceased at that date to violate our neutral commerce, the fact, as prescribed by law, was announced by a proclamation bearing date the 2nd of November. It would have well accorded with the conciliatory views indicated by this proceeding on the part of France to have extended them to all the grounds of just complaint which now remain unadjusted with the United States. It was particularly anticipated that, as a further evidence of just dispositions toward them, restoration would have been immediately made of the property of our citizens under a misapplication of the principle of reprisals combined with a misconstruction of a law of the United States. This expectation has not been fulfilled. From the British Government no communication on the subject of the act has been received. To a communication from our minister at London of a revocation by the French Government of its Berlin and Milan decrees it was answered that the British system would be relinquished as soon as the repeal of the French decrees should have actually taken effect and the commerce of neutral nations have been restored to the condition in which it stood previously to the promulgation of those decrees. This pledge, although it does not necessarily import, does not exclude the intention of relinquishing, along with the others in council, the practice of those novel blockades which have a like effect of interrupting our neutral commerce, and this further justice to the United States is the rather to be looked for, in as much as the blockades in question, being not more contrary to the established law of nations than inconsistent with the rules of blockade formally recognized by Great Britain herself, could have no alleged basis other than the plea of retaliation alleged as the basis of the orders in council. Under the modification of the original orders of 1807 November, into the orders of 1809 April, there is, indeed, scarcely a nominal distinction between the orders and the blockades. One of those illegitimate blockades, bearing date in 1806 May, having been expressly avowed to be still unrescinded, and to be in effect comprehended in the orders in council, was too distinctly brought within the purview of the act of Congress not to be comprehended in the explanation of the requisites to a compliance with it. The British Government was accordingly apprised by our minister near it that such was the light in which the subject was to be regarded. On the other important subjects depending between the United States and the Government no progress has been made from which an early and satisfactory result can be relied on. In this new posture of our relations with those powers the consideration of Congress will be properly turned to a removal of doubts which may occur in the exposition and of difficulties in the execution of the act above cited. The commerce of the United States with the north of Europe, heretofore much vexed by licentious cruisers, particularly under the Danish flag, has latterly been visited with fresh and extensive depredations. The measures pursued in behalf of our injured citizens not having obtained justice for them, a further and more formal interposition with the Danish Government is contemplated. The principles which have been maintained by that Government in relation to neutral commerce, and the friendly professions of His Danish Majesty toward the United States, are valuable pledges in favor of a successful issue. Among the events growing out of the state of the Spanish Monarchy, our attention was imperiously attracted to the change developing itself in that portion of West Florida which, though of right appertaining to the United States, had remained in the possession of Spain awaiting the result of negotiations for its actual delivery to them. The Spanish authority was subverted and a situation produced exposing the country to ulterior events which might essentially affect the rights and welfare of the Union. In such a conjuncture I did not delay the interposition required for the occupancy of the territory west of the river Perdido, to which the title of the United States extends, and to which the laws provided for the Territory of Orleans are applicable. With this view, the proclamation of which a copy is laid before you was confided to the governor of that Territory to be carried into effect. The legality and necessity of the course pursued assure me of the favorable light in which it will present itself to the Legislature, and of the promptitude with which they will supply whatever provisions may be due to the essential rights and equitable interests of the people thus brought into the bosom of the American family. Our amity with the powers of Barbary, with the exception of a recent occurrence at Tunis, of which an explanation is just received, appears to have been uninterrupted and to have become more firmly established. With the Indian tribes also the peace and friendship of the United States are found to be so eligible that the general disposition to preserve both continues to gain strength. I feel particular satisfaction in remarking that an interior view of our country presents us with grateful proofs of its substantial and increasing prosperity. To a thriving agriculture and the improvements related to it is added a highly interesting extension of useful manufactures, the combined product of professional occupations and of household industry. Such indeed is the experience of economy as well as of policy in these substitutes for supplies heretofore obtained by foreign commerce that in a national view the change is justly regarded as of itself more than a recompense for those privations and losses resulting from foreign injustice which furnished the general impulse required for its accomplishment. How far it may be expedient to guard the infancy of this improvement in the distribution of labor by regulations of the commercial tariff is a subject which can not fail to suggest itself to your patriotic reflections. It will rest with the consideration of Congress also whether a provident as well as fair encouragement would not be given to our navigation by such regulations as would place it on a level of competition with foreign vessels, particularly in transporting the important and bulky productions of our own soil. The failure of equality and reciprocity in the existing regulations on this subject operates in our ports as a premium to foreign competitors, and the inconvenience must increase as these may be multiplied under more favorable circumstances by the more than countervailing encouragements now given them by the laws of their respective countries. Whilst it is universally admitted that a well-instructed people alone can be permanently a free people, and whilst it is evident that the means of diffusing and improving useful knowledge form so small a proportion of the expenditures for national purposes, I can not presume it to be unseasonable to invite your attention to the advantages of superadding to the means of education provided by the several States a seminary of learning instituted by the National Legislature within the limits of their exclusive jurisdiction, the expense of which might be defrayed or reimbursed out of the vacant grounds which have accrued to the nation within those limits. Such an institution, though local in its legal character, would be universal in its beneficial effects. By enlightening the opinions, by expanding the patriotism, and by assimilating the principles, the sentiments, and the manners of those who might resort to this temple of science, to be redistributed in due time through every part of the community, sources of jealousy and prejudice would be diminished, the features of national character would be multiplied, and greater extent given to social harmony. But, above all, a well- constituted seminary in the center of the nation is recommended by the consideration that the additional instruction emanating from it would contribute not less to strengthen the foundations than to adorn the structure of our free and happy system of government. Among the commercial abuses still committed under the American flag, and leaving in force my former reference to that subject, it appears that American citizens are instrumental in carrying on a traffic in enslaved Africans, equally in violation of the laws of humanity and in defiance of those of their own country. The same just and benevolent motives which produced interdiction in force against this criminal conduct will doubtless be felt by Congress in devising further means of suppressing the evil. In the midst of uncertainties necessarily connected with the great interests of the United States, prudence requires a continuance of our defensive and precautionary arrangement. The Secretary of War and Secretary of the Navy will submit the statements and estimates which may aid Congress in their ensuing provisions for the land and naval forces. The statements of the latter will include a view of the transfers of appropriations in the naval expenditures and in the grounds on which they were made. The fortifications for the defense of our maritime frontier have been prosecuted according to the plan laid down in 1808. The works, with some exceptions, are completed and furnished with ordnance. Those for the security of the city of New York, though far advanced toward completion, will require a further time and appropriation. This is the case with a few others, either not completed or in need of repairs. The improvements in quality and quantity made in the manufacture of cannon and small arms, both at the public armories and private factories, warrant additional confidence in the competency of these resources for supplying the public exigencies. These preparations for arming the militia having thus far provided for 1 of the objects contemplated by the power vested in Congress with respect to that great bulwark of the public safety, it is for their consideration whether further provisions are not requisite for the other contemplated objects of organization and discipline. To give to this great mass of physical and moral force the efficiency which it merits, and is capable of receiving, it is indispensable that they should be instructed and practiced in the rules by which they are to be governed. Toward an accomplishment of this important work I recommend for the consideration of Congress the expediency of instituting a system which shall in the first instance call into the field at the public expense and for a given time certain portions of the commissioned and non-commissioned officers. The instruction and discipline thus acquired would gradually diffuse through the entire body of the militia that practical knowledge and promptitude for active service which are the great ends to be pursued. Experience has left no doubt either of the necessity or of the efficacy of competent military skill in those portions of an army in fitting it for the final duties which it may have to perform. The Corps of Engineers, with the Military Academy, are entitled to the early attention of Congress. The buildings at the seat fixed by law for the present Academy are so far in decay as not to afford the necessary accommodation. But a revision of the law is recommended, principally with a view to a more enlarged cultivation and diffusion of the advantages of such institutions, by providing professorships for all the necessary branches of military instruction, and by the establishment of an additional academy at the seat of Government or elsewhere. The means by which war, as well for defense as for offense, are now carried on render these schools of the more scientific operations an indispensable part of every adequate system. Even among nations whose large standing armies and frequent wars afford every other opportunity of instruction these establishments are found to be indispensable for the due attainment of the branches of military science which require a regular course of study and experiment. In a government happily without the other opportunities seminaries where the elementary principles of the art of war can be taught without actual war, and without the expense of extensive and standing armies, have the precious advantage of uniting an essential preparation against external danger with a scrupulous regard to internal safety. In no other way, probably, can a provision of equal efficacy for the public defense be made at so little expense or more consistently with the public liberty. The receipts into the Treasury during the year ending on the 30th of September last (and amounting to more than $8.5M) have exceeded the current expenses of the Government, including the interest on the public debt. For the purpose of reimbursing at the end of the year $3.75 of the principal, a loan, as authorized by law, had been negotiated to that amount, but has since been reduced to $2.75M, the reduction being permitted by the state of the Treasury, in which there will be a balance remaining at the end of the year estimated at $2M. For the probably receipts of the next year and other details I refer to statements which will be transmitted from the Treasury, and which will enable you to judge what further provisions may be necessary for the ensuing years. Reserving for future occasions in the course of the session whatever other communications may claim your attention, I close the present by expressing my reliance, under the blessing of Divine Providence, on the judgement and patriotism which will guide your measures at a period particularly calling for united councils and flexible exertions for the welfare of our country, and by assuring you of the fidelity and alacrity with which my cooperation will be afforded.
the embarrassments which have prevailed in our foreign relations and so much employed the deliberations of congress make it a primary duty in meeting you to communicate whatever may have occurred in that branch of our national affairs the act of the last session of congress concerning the commercial intercourse between the united states and great britain and france and their dependencies having invited in a new form a termination of their edicts against our neutral commerce copies of the act were immediately forwarded to our ministers at london and paris with a view that its object might be within the early attention of the french and british governments by the communication received through our minister at paris it appeared that knowledge of the act by the french government was followed by a declaration that the berlin and milan decrees were revoked and would cease to have effect on the first day of november ensuing these being the only known edicts of france within the description of the act and the revocation of them being such that they ceased at that date to violate our neutral commerce the fact as prescribed by law was announced by a proclamation bearing date the 2nd of november it would have well accorded with the conciliatory views indicated by this proceeding on the part of france to have extended them to all the grounds of just complaint which now remain unadjusted with the united states it was particularly anticipated that as a further evidence of just dispositions toward them restoration would have been immediately made of the property of our citizens under a misapplication of the principle of reprisals combined with a misconstruction of a law of the united states this expectation has not been fulfilled from the british government no communication on the subject of the act has been received to a communication from our minister at london of a revocation by the french government of its berlin and milan decrees it was answered that the british system would be relinquished as soon as the repeal of the french decrees should have actually taken effect and the commerce of neutral nations have been restored to the condition in which it stood previously to the promulgation of those decrees this pledge although it does not necessarily import does not exclude the intention of relinquishing along with the others in council the practice of those novel blockades which have a like effect of interrupting our neutral commerce and this further justice to the united states is the rather to be looked for in as much as the blockades in question being not more contrary to the established law of nations than inconsistent with the rules of blockade formally recognized by great britain herself could have no alleged basis other than the plea of retaliation alleged as the basis of the orders in council under the modification of the original orders of 1807 november into the orders of 1809 april there is indeed scarcely a nominal distinction between the orders and the blockades one of those illegitimate blockades bearing date in 1806 may having been expressly avowed to be still unrescinded and to be in effect comprehended in the orders in council was too distinctly brought within the purview of the act of congress not to be comprehended in the explanation of the requisites to a compliance with it the british government was accordingly apprised by our minister near it that such was the light in which the subject was to be regarded on the other important subjects depending between the united states and the government no progress has been made from which an early and satisfactory result can be relied on in this new posture of our relations with those powers the consideration of congress will be properly turned to a removal of doubts which may occur in the exposition and of difficulties in the execution of the act above cited the commerce of the united states with the north of europe heretofore much vexed by licentious cruisers particularly under the danish flag has latterly been visited with fresh and extensive depredations the measures pursued in behalf of our injured citizens not having obtained justice for them a further and more formal interposition with the danish government is contemplated the principles which have been maintained by that government in relation to neutral commerce and the friendly professions of his danish majesty toward the united states are valuable pledges in favor of a successful issue among the events growing out of the state of the spanish monarchy our attention was imperiously attracted to the change developing itself in that portion of west florida which though of right appertaining to the united states had remained in the possession of spain awaiting the result of negotiations for its actual delivery to them the spanish authority was subverted and a situation produced exposing the country to ulterior events which might essentially affect the rights and welfare of the union in such a conjuncture i did not delay the interposition required for the occupancy of the territory west of the river perdido to which the title of the united states extends and to which the laws provided for the territory of orleans are applicable with this view the proclamation of which a copy is laid before you was confided to the governor of that territory to be carried into effect the legality and necessity of the course pursued assure me of the favorable light in which it will present itself to the legislature and of the promptitude with which they will supply whatever provisions may be due to the essential rights and equitable interests of the people thus brought into the bosom of the american family our amity with the powers of barbary with the exception of a recent occurrence at tunis of which an explanation is just received appears to have been uninterrupted and to have become more firmly established with the indian tribes also the peace and friendship of the united states are found to be so eligible that the general disposition to preserve both continues to gain strength i feel particular satisfaction in remarking that an interior view of our country presents us with grateful proofs of its substantial and increasing prosperity to a thriving agriculture and the improvements related to it is added a highly interesting extension of useful manufactures the combined product of professional occupations and of household industry such indeed is the experience of economy as well as of policy in these substitutes for supplies heretofore obtained by foreign commerce that in a national view the change is justly regarded as of itself more than a recompense for those privations and losses resulting from foreign injustice which furnished the general impulse required for its accomplishment how far it may be expedient to guard the infancy of this improvement in the distribution of labor by regulations of the commercial tariff is a subject which can not fail to suggest itself to your patriotic reflections it will rest with the consideration of congress also whether a provident as well as fair encouragement would not be given to our navigation by such regulations as would place it on a level of competition with foreign vessels particularly in transporting the important and bulky productions of our own soil the failure of equality and reciprocity in the existing regulations on this subject operates in our ports as a premium to foreign competitors and the inconvenience must increase as these may be multiplied under more favorable circumstances by the more than countervailing encouragements now given them by the laws of their respective countries whilst it is universally admitted that a people alone can be permanently a free people and whilst it is evident that the means of diffusing and improving useful knowledge form so small a proportion of the expenditures for national purposes i can not presume it to be unseasonable to invite your attention to the advantages of superadding to the means of education provided by the several states a seminary of learning instituted by the national legislature within the limits of their exclusive jurisdiction the expense of which might be defrayed or reimbursed out of the vacant grounds which have accrued to the nation within those limits such an institution though local in its legal character would be universal in its beneficial effects by enlightening the opinions by expanding the patriotism and by assimilating the principles the sentiments and the manners of those who might resort to this temple of science to be redistributed in due time through every part of the community sources of jealousy and prejudice would be diminished the features of national character would be multiplied and greater extent given to social harmony but above all a constituted seminary in the center of the nation is recommended by the consideration that the additional instruction emanating from it would contribute not less to strengthen the foundations than to adorn the structure of our free and happy system of government among the commercial abuses still committed under the american flag and leaving in force my former reference to that subject it appears that american citizens are instrumental in carrying on a traffic in enslaved africans equally in violation of the laws of humanity and in defiance of those of their own country the same just and benevolent motives which produced interdiction in force against this criminal conduct will doubtless be felt by congress in devising further means of suppressing the evil in the midst of uncertainties necessarily connected with the great interests of the united states prudence requires a continuance of our defensive and precautionary arrangement the secretary of war and secretary of the navy will submit the statements and estimates which may aid congress in their ensuing provisions for the land and naval forces the statements of the latter will include a view of the transfers of appropriations in the naval expenditures and in the grounds on which they were made the fortifications for the defense of our maritime frontier have been prosecuted according to the plan laid down in 1808 the works with some exceptions are completed and furnished with ordnance those for the security of the city of new york though far advanced toward completion will require a further time and appropriation this is the case with a few others either not completed or in need of repairs the improvements in quality and quantity made in the manufacture of cannon and small arms both at the public armories and private factories warrant additional confidence in the competency of these resources for supplying the public exigencies these preparations for arming the militia having thus far provided for 1 of the objects contemplated by the power vested in congress with respect to that great bulwark of the public safety it is for their consideration whether further provisions are not requisite for the other contemplated objects of organization and discipline to give to this great mass of physical and moral force the efficiency which it merits and is capable of receiving it is indispensable that they should be instructed and practiced in the rules by which they are to be governed toward an accomplishment of this important work i recommend for the consideration of congress the expediency of instituting a system which shall in the first instance call into the field at the public expense and for a given time certain portions of the commissioned and officers the instruction and discipline thus acquired would gradually diffuse through the entire body of the militia that practical knowledge and promptitude for active service which are the great ends to be pursued experience has left no doubt either of the necessity or of the efficacy of competent military skill in those portions of an army in fitting it for the final duties which it may have to perform the corps of engineers with the military academy are entitled to the early attention of congress the buildings at the seat fixed by law for the present academy are so far in decay as not to afford the necessary accommodation but a revision of the law is recommended principally with a view to a more enlarged cultivation and diffusion of the advantages of such institutions by providing professorships for all the necessary branches of military instruction and by the establishment of an additional academy at the seat of government or elsewhere the means by which war as well for defense as for offense are now carried on render these schools of the more scientific operations an indispensable part of every adequate system even among nations whose large standing armies and frequent wars afford every other opportunity of instruction these establishments are found to be indispensable for the due attainment of the branches of military science which require a regular course of study and experiment in a government happily without the other opportunities seminaries where the elementary principles of the art of war can be taught without actual war and without the expense of extensive and standing armies have the precious advantage of uniting an essential preparation against external danger with a scrupulous regard to internal safety in no other way probably can a provision of equal efficacy for the public defense be made at so little expense or more consistently with the public liberty the receipts into the treasury during the year ending on the 30th of september last and amounting to more than have exceeded the current expenses of the government including the interest on the public debt for the purpose of reimbursing at the end of the year of the principal a loan as authorized by law had been negotiated to that amount but has since been reduced to the reduction being permitted by the state of the treasury in which there will be a balance remaining at the end of the year estimated at 2m for the probably receipts of the next year and other details i refer to statements which will be transmitted from the treasury and which will enable you to judge what further provisions may be necessary for the ensuing years reserving for future occasions in the course of the session whatever other communications may claim your attention i close the present by expressing my reliance under the blessing of divine providence on the judgement and patriotism which will guide your measures at a period particularly calling for united councils and flexible exertions for the welfare of our country and by assuring you of the fidelity and alacrity with which my cooperation will be afforded
embarrassments prevailed foreign relations much employed deliberations congress make primary duty meeting communicate whatever may occurred branch national affairs act last session congress concerning commercial intercourse united states great britain france dependencies invited new form termination edicts neutral commerce copies act immediately forwarded ministers london paris view object might within early attention french british governments communication received minister paris appeared knowledge act french government followed declaration berlin milan decrees revoked would cease effect first day november ensuing known edicts france within description act revocation ceased date violate neutral commerce fact prescribed law announced proclamation bearing date 2nd november would well accorded conciliatory views indicated proceeding part france extended grounds complaint remain unadjusted united states particularly anticipated evidence dispositions toward restoration would immediately made property citizens misapplication principle reprisals combined misconstruction law united states expectation fulfilled british government communication subject act received communication minister london revocation french government berlin milan decrees answered british system would relinquished soon repeal french decrees actually taken effect commerce neutral nations restored condition stood previously promulgation decrees pledge although necessarily import exclude intention relinquishing along others council practice novel blockades like effect interrupting neutral commerce justice united states rather looked much blockades question contrary established law nations inconsistent rules blockade formally recognized great britain could alleged basis plea retaliation alleged basis orders council modification original orders 1807 november orders 1809 april indeed scarcely nominal distinction orders blockades one illegitimate blockades bearing date 1806 may expressly avowed still unrescinded effect comprehended orders council distinctly brought within purview act congress comprehended explanation requisites compliance british government accordingly apprised minister near light subject regarded important subjects depending united states government progress made early satisfactory result relied new posture relations powers consideration congress properly turned removal doubts may occur exposition difficulties execution act cited commerce united states north europe heretofore much vexed licentious cruisers particularly danish flag latterly visited fresh extensive depredations measures pursued behalf injured citizens obtained justice formal interposition danish government contemplated principles maintained government relation neutral commerce friendly professions danish majesty toward united states valuable pledges favor successful issue among events growing state spanish monarchy attention imperiously attracted change developing portion west florida though right appertaining united states remained possession spain awaiting result negotiations actual delivery spanish authority subverted situation produced exposing country ulterior events might essentially affect rights welfare union conjuncture delay interposition required occupancy territory west river perdido title united states extends laws provided territory orleans applicable view proclamation copy laid confided governor territory carried effect legality necessity course pursued assure favorable light present legislature promptitude supply whatever provisions may due essential rights equitable interests people thus brought bosom american family amity powers barbary exception recent occurrence tunis explanation received appears uninterrupted become firmly established indian tribes also peace friendship united states found eligible general disposition preserve continues gain strength feel particular satisfaction remarking interior view country presents us grateful proofs substantial increasing prosperity thriving agriculture improvements related added highly interesting extension useful manufactures combined product professional occupations household industry indeed experience economy well policy substitutes supplies heretofore obtained foreign commerce national view change justly regarded recompense privations losses resulting foreign injustice furnished general impulse required accomplishment far may expedient guard infancy improvement distribution labor regulations commercial tariff subject fail suggest patriotic reflections rest consideration congress also whether provident well fair encouragement would given navigation regulations would place level competition foreign vessels particularly transporting important bulky productions soil failure equality reciprocity existing regulations subject operates ports premium foreign competitors inconvenience must increase may multiplied favorable circumstances countervailing encouragements given laws respective countries whilst universally admitted people alone permanently free people whilst evident means diffusing improving useful knowledge form small proportion expenditures national purposes presume unseasonable invite attention advantages superadding means education provided several states seminary learning instituted national legislature within limits exclusive jurisdiction expense might defrayed reimbursed vacant grounds accrued nation within limits institution though local legal character would universal beneficial effects enlightening opinions expanding patriotism assimilating principles sentiments manners might resort temple science redistributed due time every part community sources jealousy prejudice would diminished features national character would multiplied greater extent given social harmony constituted seminary center nation recommended consideration additional instruction emanating would contribute less strengthen foundations adorn structure free happy system government among commercial abuses still committed american flag leaving force former reference subject appears american citizens instrumental carrying traffic enslaved africans equally violation laws humanity defiance country benevolent motives produced interdiction force criminal conduct doubtless felt congress devising means suppressing evil midst uncertainties necessarily connected great interests united states prudence requires continuance defensive precautionary arrangement secretary war secretary navy submit statements estimates may aid congress ensuing provisions land naval forces statements latter include view transfers appropriations naval expenditures grounds made fortifications defense maritime frontier prosecuted according plan laid 1808 works exceptions completed furnished ordnance security city new york though far advanced toward completion require time appropriation case others either completed need repairs improvements quality quantity made manufacture cannon small arms public armories private factories warrant additional confidence competency resources supplying public exigencies preparations arming militia thus far provided 1 objects contemplated power vested congress respect great bulwark public safety consideration whether provisions requisite contemplated objects organization discipline give great mass physical moral force efficiency merits capable receiving indispensable instructed practiced rules governed toward accomplishment important work recommend consideration congress expediency instituting system shall first instance call field public expense given time certain portions commissioned officers instruction discipline thus acquired would gradually diffuse entire body militia practical knowledge promptitude active service great ends pursued experience left doubt either necessity efficacy competent military skill portions army fitting final duties may perform corps engineers military academy entitled early attention congress buildings seat fixed law present academy far decay afford necessary accommodation revision law recommended principally view enlarged cultivation diffusion advantages institutions providing professorships necessary branches military instruction establishment additional academy seat government elsewhere means war well defense offense carried render schools scientific operations indispensable part every adequate system even among nations whose large standing armies frequent wars afford every opportunity instruction establishments found indispensable due attainment branches military science require regular course study experiment government happily without opportunities seminaries elementary principles art war taught without actual war without expense extensive standing armies precious advantage uniting essential preparation external danger scrupulous regard internal safety way probably provision equal efficacy public defense made little expense consistently public liberty receipts treasury year ending 30th september last amounting exceeded current expenses government including interest public debt purpose reimbursing end year principal loan authorized law negotiated amount since reduced reduction permitted state treasury balance remaining end year estimated 2m probably receipts next year details refer statements transmitted treasury enable judge provisions may necessary ensuing years reserving future occasions course session whatever communications may claim attention close present expressing reliance blessing divine providence judgement patriotism guide measures period particularly calling united councils flexible exertions welfare country assuring fidelity alacrity cooperation afforded
embarrassment prevail foreign relation much employ deliberation congress make primary duty meeting communicate whatever may occur branch national affair act last session congress concern commercial intercourse united state great britain france dependency invite new form termination edicts neutral commerce copy act immediately forward minister london paris view object might within early attention french british government communication receive minister paris appear knowledge act french government follow declaration berlin milan decree revoke would cease effect first day november ensue know edict france within description act revocation cease date violate neutral commerce fact prescribe law announce proclamation bearing date 2nd november would well accord conciliatory view indicate proceed part france extend ground complaint remain unadjusted united state particularly anticipate evidence disposition toward restoration would immediately make property citizen misapplication principle reprisal combine misconstruction law united state expectation fulfil british government communication subject act receive communication minister london revocation french government berlin milan decree answer british system would relinquish soon repeal french decree actually take effect commerce neutral nation restore condition stand previously promulgation decree pledge although necessarily import exclude intention relinquish along others council practice novel blockade like effect interrupt neutral commerce justice unite state rather look much blockade question contrary establish law nation inconsistent rule blockade formally recognize great britain could allege basis plea retaliation allege basis order council modification original order 1807 november order 1809 april indeed scarcely nominal distinction order blockade one illegitimate blockade bear date 1806 may expressly avow still unrescinded effect comprehend order council distinctly bring within purview act congress comprehend explanation requisite compliance british government accordingly apprise minister near light subject regard important subject depend united state government progress make early satisfactory result rely new posture relation power consideration congress properly turn removal doubt may occur exposition difficulty execution act cite commerce united state north europe heretofore much vexed licentious cruiser particularly danish flag latterly visit fresh extensive depredation measure pursue behalf injured citizen obtain justice formal interposition danish government contemplate principle maintain government relation neutral commerce friendly profession danish majesty toward united state valuable pledge favor successful issue among event grow state spanish monarchy attention imperiously attract change develop portion west florida though right appertain united state remain possession spain await result negotiation actual delivery spanish authority subvert situation produce expose country ulterior event might essentially affect right welfare union conjuncture delay interposition require occupancy territory west river perdido title united state extend law provide territory orleans applicable view proclamation copy laid confide governor territory carry effect legality necessity course pursue assure favorable light present legislature promptitude supply whatever provision may due essential right equitable interest people thus bring bosom american family amity power barbary exception recent occurrence tunis explanation receive appear uninterrupted become firmly establish indian tribe also peace friendship united state find eligible general disposition preserve continue gain strength feel particular satisfaction remark interior view country present u grateful proofs substantial increase prosperity thrive agriculture improvement relate add highly interesting extension useful manufacture combine product professional occupation household industry indeed experience economy well policy substitute supply heretofore obtained foreign commerce national view change justly regard recompense privation loss result foreign injustice furnish general impulse require accomplishment far may expedient guard infancy improvement distribution labor regulation commercial tariff subject fail suggest patriotic reflection rest consideration congress also whether provident well fair encouragement would give navigation regulation would place level competition foreign vessel particularly transport important bulky production soil failure equality reciprocity exist regulation subject operate port premium foreign competitor inconvenience must increase may multiply favorable circumstance countervail encouragement give law respective country whilst universally admit people alone permanently free people whilst evident mean diffuse improve useful knowledge form small proportion expenditures national purpose presume unseasonable invite attention advantage superadding mean education provide several state seminary learn instituted national legislature within limit exclusive jurisdiction expense might defray reimburse vacant ground accrue nation within limit institution though local legal character would universal beneficial effect enlighten opinion expand patriotism assimilate principle sentiment manner might resort temple science redistribute due time every part community source jealousy prejudice would diminish feature national character would multiply great extent give social harmony constitute seminary center nation recommend consideration additional instruction emanate would contribute less strengthen foundation adorn structure free happy system government among commercial abuse still commit american flag leave force former reference subject appear american citizen instrumental carry traffic enslave african equally violation law humanity defiance country benevolent motif produce interdiction force criminal conduct doubtless felt congress devising mean suppress evil midst uncertainty necessarily connect great interest unite state prudence require continuance defensive precautionary arrangement secretary war secretary navy submit statement estimate may aid congress ensue provision land naval force statement latter include view transfer appropriation naval expenditure ground make fortification defense maritime frontier prosecute accord plan laid 1808 works exception complete furnished ordnance security city new york though far advanced toward completion require time appropriation case others either complete need repair improvement quality quantity make manufacture cannon small arm public armory private factory warrant additional confidence competency resource supply public exigency preparation arm militia thus far provide 1 object contemplated power vest congress respect great bulwark public safety consideration whether provision requisite contemplate object organization discipline give great mass physical moral force efficiency merit capable receive indispensable instruct practiced rule govern toward accomplishment important work recommend consideration congress expediency institute system shall first instance call field public expense give time certain portion commission officer instruction discipline thus acquire would gradually diffuse entire body militia practical knowledge promptitude active service great end pursued experience leave doubt either necessity efficacy competent military skill portion army fit final duty may perform corp engineer military academy entitle early attention congress building seat fix law present academy far decay afford necessary accommodation revision law recommend principally view enlarge cultivation diffusion advantage institution provide professorship necessary branch military instruction establishment additional academy seat government elsewhere mean war well defense offense carry render school scientific operation indispensable part every adequate system even among nation whose large stand army frequent war afford every opportunity instruction establishment find indispensable due attainment branch military science require regular course study experiment government happily without opportunity seminary elementary principle art war taught without actual war without expense extensive standing army precious advantage unite essential preparation external danger scrupulous regard internal safety way probably provision equal efficacy public defense make little expense consistently public liberty receipt treasury year end 30th september last amounting exceed current expense government include interest public debt purpose reimburse end year principal loan authorize law negotiate amount since reduce reduction permit state treasury balance remain end year estimate 2m probably receipt next year detail refer statement transmitted treasury enable judge provision may necessary ensue year reserve future occasion course session whatever communication may claim attention close present express reliance bless divine providence judgement patriotism guide measure period particularly call unite council flexible exertion welfare country assure fidelity alacrity cooperation afford