The view which I have now to present to you of our affairs, foreign and domestic, realizes the most sanguine anticipations which have been entertained of the public prosperity. If we look to the whole, our growth as a nation continues to be rapid beyond example; if to the States which compose it, the same gratifying spectacle is exhibited. Our expansion over the vast territory within our limits has been great, without indicating any decline in those sections from which the emigration has been most conspicuous. We have daily gained strength by a native population in every quarter -- a population devoted to our happy system of government and cherishing the bond of union with internal affection. Experience has already shewn that the difference of climate and of industry, proceeding from that cause, inseparable from such vast domains, and which under other systems might have a repulsive tendency, can not fail to produce with us under wise regulations the opposite effect. What one portion wants the other may supply; and this will be most sensibly felt by the parts most distant from each other, forming thereby a domestic market and an active intercourse between the extremes and throughout every portion of our Union. Thus by a happy distribution of power between the National and State Governments, Governments which rest exclusively on the sovereignty of the people and are fully adequate to the great purposes for which they were respectively instituted, causes which might otherwise lead to dismemberment operate powerfully to draw us closer together. In every other circumstance a correct view of the actual state of our Union must be equally gratifying to our constituents. For these blessings we owe to Almighty God, from whom we derive them, and with profound reverence, our most grateful and unceasing acknowledgments. In adverting to our relations with foreign powers, which are always an object of the highest importance, I have to remark that of the subjects which have been brought into discussion with them during the present Administration some have been satisfactorily terminated, others have been suspended, to be resumed hereafter under circumstances more favorable to success, and others are still in negotiation, with the hope that they may be adjusted with mutual accommodation to the interests and to the satisfaction of the respective parties. It has been the invariable object of this Government to cherish the most friendly relations with every power, and on principles and conditions which might make them permanent. A systematic effort has been made to place our commerce with each power on a footing of perfect reciprocity, to settle with each in a spirit of candor and liberality all existing differences, and to anticipate and remove so far as it might be practicable all causes of future variance. It having been stipulated by the 7th article of the convention of navigation and commerce which was concluded on [1822-06-24], between the United States and France, that the said convention should continue in force for two years from the first of October of that year, and for an indefinite term afterwards, unless one of the parties should declare its intention to renounce it, in which event it should cease to operate at the end of 6 months from such declaration, and no such intention having been announced, the convention having been found advantageous to both parties, it has since remained, and still remains, in force. At the time when that convention was concluded many interesting subjects were left unsettled, and particularly our claim to indemnity for spoliations which were committed on our commerce in the late wars. For these interests and claims it was in the contemplation of the parties to make provision at a subsequent day by a more comprehensive and definitive treaty. The object has been duly attended to since by the Executive, but as yet it has not been accomplished. It is hoped that a favorable opportunity will present itself for opening a negotiation which may embrace and arrange all existing differences and every other concern in which they have a common interest upon the accession of the present King of France, an event which has occurred since the close of the last session of Congress. With Great Britain our commercial intercourse rests on the same footing that it did at the last session. by the convention of 1815, the commerce between the United States and the British dominions in Europe and the East Indies was arranged on a principle of reciprocity. That convention was confirmed and continued in force, with slight exceptions, by a subsequent treaty for the term of 10 years from [1818-10-20], the date of the latter. The trade with the British colonies in the West Indies has not as yet been arranged, by treaty or otherwise, to our satisfaction. An approach to that result has been made by legislative acts, whereby many serious impediments which had been raised by the parties in defense of their respective claims were removed. An earnest desire exists, and has been manifested on the part of this Government, to place the commerce with the colonies, likewise, on a footing of reciprocal advantage, and it is hoped that the British Government, seeing the justice of the proposal and its importance to the colonies, will ere long accede to it. The commissioners who were appointed for the adjustment of the boundary between the territories of the United States and those of Great Britain, specified in the 5th article of the treaty of Ghent, having disagreed in their decision, and both Governments having agreed to establish that boundary by amicable negotiation between them, it is hoped that it may be satisfactorily adjusted in that mode. The boundary specified by the 6th article has been established by the decision of the commissioners. From the progress made in that provided for by the 7th, according to a report recently received, there is good cause to presume that it will be settled in the course of the ensuing year. It is a cause of serious regret that no arrangement has yet been finally concluded between the two Governments to secure by joint cooperation the suppression of the slave trade. It was the object of the British Government in the early stages of the negotiation to adopt a plan for the suppression which should include the concession of the mutual right of search by the ships of war of each party of the vessels of the other for suspected offenders. This was objected to by this Government on the principle that as the right of search was a right of war of a belligerent toward a neutral power it might have an ill effect to extend it by treaty, to an offense which had been made comparatively mild, to a time of peace. Anxious, however, for the suppression of this trade, it was thought advisable, in compliance with a resolution of the House of Representatives, founded on an act of Congress, to propose to the British Government an expedient which should be free from that objection and more effectual for the object, by making it piratical. In that mode the enormity of the crime would place the offenders out of the protection of their Government, and involve no question of search or other question between the parties touching their respective rights. It was believed, also, that it would completely suppress the trade in the vessels of both parties, and by their respective citizens and subjects in those of other powers, with whom it was hoped that the odium which would thereby be attached to it would produce a corresponding arrangement, and by means thereof its entire extirpation forever. A convention to this effect was concluded and signed in London on [1824-03-13], by plenipotentiaries duly authorized by both Governments, to the ratification of which certain obstacles have arisen which are not yet entirely removed. The difference between the parties still remaining has been reduced to a point not of sufficient magnitude, as is presumed, to be permitted to defeat an object so near to the heart of both nations and so desirable to the friends of humanity throughout the world. As objections, however, to the principle recommended by the House of Representatives, or at least to the consequences inseparable from it, and which are understood to apply to the law, have been raised, which may deserve a reconsideration of the whole subject, I have thought it proper to suspend the conclusion of a new convention until the definitive sentiments of Congress may be ascertained. The documents relating to the negotiation are with that intent submitted to your consideration. Our commerce with Sweden has been placed on a footing of perfect reciprocity by treaty, and with Russia, the Netherlands, Prussia, the free Hanseatic cities, the Dukedom of Oldenburg, and Sardinia by internal regulations on each side, founded on mutual agreement between the respective Governments. The principles upon which the commercial policy of the United States is founded are to be traced to an early period. They are essentially connected with those upon which their independence was declared, and owe their origin to the enlightened men who took the lead in our affairs at that important epoch. They are developed in their first treaty of commerce with France of [1778-02-06], and by a formal commission which was instituted immediately after the conclusion of their Revolutionary struggle, for the purpose of negotiating treaties of commerce with every European power. The first treaty of the United States with Prussia, which was negotiated by that commission, affords a signal illustration of those principles. The act of Congress of [1815-03-03], adopted immediately after the return of a general peace, was a new overture to foreign nations to establish our commercial relations with them on the basis of free and equal reciprocity. That principle has pervaded all the acts of Congress and all the negotiations of the Executive on the subject. A convention for the settlement of important questions in relation to the North West coast of this continent and its adjoining seas was concluded and signed at St. Petersburg on the 5th day of April last by the minister plenipotentiary of the United States and plenipotentiaries of the Imperial Government of Russia. It will immediately be laid before the Senate for the exercise of the constitutional authority of that body with reference to its ratification. It is proper to add that the manner in which this negotiation was invited and conducted on the part of the Emperor has been very satisfactory. The great and extraordinary changes which have happened in the Governments of Spain and Portugal within the last two years, without seriously affecting the friendly relations which under all of them have been maintained with those powers by the United States, have been obstacles to the adjustment of the particular subjects of discussion which have arisen with each. A resolution of the Senate adopted at their last session called for information as to the effect produced upon our relations with Spain by the recognition on the part of the United States of the independent South American Governments. The papers containing that information are now communicated to Congress. A charge' d'affaires has been received from the independent Government of Brazil. That country, heretofore a colonial possession of Portugal, had some years since been proclaimed by the Sovereign of Portugal himself an independent Kingdom. Since his return to Lisbon a revolution in Brazil has established a new Government there with an imperial title, at the head of which is placed a prince, in whom the regency had been vested by the King at the time of his departure. There is reason to expect that by amicable negotiation the independence of Brazil will ere long be recognized by Portugal herself. With the remaining powers of Europe, with those on the coast of Barbary, and with all the new South American States our relations are of a friendly character. We have ministers plenipotentiary residing with the Republics of Colombia and Chile, and have received ministers of the same rank from Columbia, Guatemala, Buenos Ayres, and Mexico. Our commercial relations with all those States are mutually beneficial and increasing. With the Republic of Colombia a treaty of commerce has been formed, of which a copy is received and the original daily expected. A negotiation for a like treaty would have been commenced with Buenos Ayres had it not been prevented by the indisposition and lamented decease of Mr. Rodney, our minister there, and to whose memory the most respectful attention has been shewn by the Government of that Republic. An advantageous alteration in our treaty with Tunis has been obtained by our consular agent residing there, the official document of which when received will be laid before the Senate. The attention of the Government has been drawn with great solicitude to other subjects, and particularly to that relating to a state of maritime war, involving the relative rights of neutral and belligerent in such wars. Most of the difficulties which we have experienced and of the losses which we have sustained since the establishment of our independence have proceeded from the unsettled state of those rights and the extent to which the belligerent claim has been carried against the neutral party. It is impossible to look back on the occurrences of the late wars in Europe, and to behold the disregard which was paid to our rights as a neutral power, and the waste which was made of our commerce by the parties to those wars by various acts of their respective Governments, and under the pretext by each that the other had set the example, without great mortification and a fixed purpose never to submit to the like in future. An attempt to remove those causes of possible variance by friendly negotiation and on just principles which should be applicable to all parties could, it was presumed, be viewed by none other than as a proof of an earnest desire to preserve those relations with every power. In the late war between France and Spain a crisis occurred in which it seemed probable that all controvertible principles involved in such wars might be brought into discussion and settled to the satisfaction of all parties. Propositions having this object in view have been made to the Governments of Great Britain, France, Russia, and of other powers, which have been received in a friendly manner by all, but as yet no treaty has been formed with either for its accomplishment. The policy will, it is presumed, be persevered in, and in the hope that it may be successful. It will always be recollected that with one of the parties to those wars and from whom we received those injuries, we sought redress by war. From the other, by whose then reigning Government our vessels were seized in port as well as at sea and their cargoes confiscated, indemnity has been expected, but has not yet been rendered. It was under the influence of the latter that our vessels were likewise seized by the Governments of Spain, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, and Naples, and from whom indemnity has been claimed and is still expected, with the exception of Spain, by whom it has been rendered. With both parties we had abundant cause of war, but we had no alternative but to resist that which was most powerful at sea and pressed us nearest at home. With this all differences were settled by a treaty, founded on conditions fair and honorable to both, and which has been so far executed with perfect good faith. It has been earnestly hoped that the other would of its own accord, and from a sentiment of justice and conciliation, make to our citizens the indemnity to which they are entitled, and thereby remove from our relations any just cause of discontent on our side. It is estimated that the receipts into the Treasury during the current year, exclusive of loans, will exceed $18.5M, which, with the sum remaining in the Treasury at the end of the last year, amounting to $9,463,922.81 will, after discharging the current disbursements of the year, the interest on the public debt, and upward of $11,633,011.52 of the principal, leave a balance of more than $3M in the Treasury on the first day of January next. A larger amount of the debt contracted during the late war, bearing an interest of 6%, becoming redeemable in the course of the ensuing year than could be discharged by the ordinary revenue, the act of the 26th of May authorized a loan of $5M at 4.5% to meet the same. By this arrangement an annual saving will accrue to the public of $75,000. Under the act of the 24th of May last a loan of $5M was authorized, in order to meet the awards under the Florida treaty, which was negotiated at par with the Bank of the United States at 4.5%, the limit of interest fixed by the act. By this provision the claims of our citizens who had sustained so great a loss by spoliations, and from whom indemnity had been so long withheld, were promptly paid. For these advances the public will be amply repaid at no distant day by the sale of the lands in Florida. Of the great advantages resulting from the acquisition of the Territory in other respects too high an estimate can not be formed. It is estimated that the receipts into the Treasury during the year 1825 will be sufficient to meet the disbursements of the year, including the sum of $10M, which is annually appropriated by the act of constituting the sinking fund to the payment of the principal and interest of the public debt. The whole amount of the public debt on the first of January next may be estimated at $86M, inclusive of $2.5M of the loan authorized by the act of the 26th of May last. In this estimate is included a stock of $7M, issued for the purchase of that amount of the capital stock of the Bank of the United States, and which, as the stock of the bank still held by the Government will at least be fully equal to its reimbursement, ought not to be considered as constituting a part of the public debt. Estimating, then, the whole amount of the public debt at $79M and regarding the annual receipts and expenditures of the Government, a well-founded hope may be entertained that, should no unexpected event occur, the whole of the public debt may be discharged in the course of 10 years, and the Government be left at liberty thereafter to apply such portion of the revenue as may not be necessary for current expenses to such other objects as may be most conducive to the public security and welfare. That the sums applicable to these objects will be very considerable may be fairly concluded when it is recollected that a large amount of the public revenue has been applied since the late war On many of these objects the expense will annually be diminished and cease at no distant period on most of them. On the [1917-01-01], the public debt amounted to $123,491,965.16, and, notwithstanding the large sums which have been applied to these objects, it has been reduced since that period $37,446,961.78. The last portion of the public debt will be redeemable on [1835-01-01], and, while there is the best reason to believe that the resources of the Government will be continually adequate to such portions of it as may become due in the interval, it is recommended to Congress to seize every opportunity which may present itself to reduce the rate of interest on every part thereof. The high state of the public credit and the great abundance of money are at this time very favorable to such a result. It must be very gratifying to our fellow citizens to witness this flourishing state of the public finances when it is recollected that no burthen whatever has been imposed upon them. The military establishment in all its branches, in the performance of the various duties assigned to each, justifies the favorable view which was presented of the efficiency of its organization at the last session. All the appropriations have been regularly applied to the objects intended by Congress, and so far as the disbursements have been made the accounts have been rendered and settled without loss to the public. The condition of the Army itself, as relates to the officers and men, in science and discipline is highly respectable. The Military Academy, on which the Army essentially rests, and to which it is much indebted for this state of improvement, has attained, in comparison with any other institution of a like kind, a high degree of perfection. Experience, however, has shewn that the dispersed condition of the corps of artillery is unfavorable to the discipline of that important branch of the military establishment. To remedy this inconvenience, eleven companies have been assembled at the fortification erected at Old Point Comfort as a school for artillery instruction, with intention as they shall be perfected in the various duties of that service to order them to other posts, and, to supply their places with other companies for instruction in like manner. In this mode a complete knowledge of the science and duties of this arm will be extended throughout the whole corps of artillery. But to carry this object fully into effect will require the aid of Congress, to obtain which the subject is now submitted to your consideration. Of the progress which has been made in the construction of fortifications for the permanent defense of our maritime frontier, according to the plan decided on and to the extent of the existing appropriations, the report of the Secretary of War, which is herewith communicated, will give a detailed account. Their final completion can not fail to give great additional security to that frontier, and to diminish proportionably the expense of defending it in the event of war. The provisions in several acts of Congress of the last session for the improvement of the navigation of the Mississippi and the Ohio, of the harbor of Presqu'isle, on Lake Erie, and the repair of the Plymouth beach are in a course of regular execution; and there is reason to believe that the appropriation in each instance will be adequate to the object. To carry these improvements fully into effect, the superintendence of them has been assigned to officers of the Corps of Engineers. Under the act of 30th April last, authorizing the President to cause a survey to be made, with the necessary plans and estimates, of such roads and canals as he might deem of national importance in a commercial or military point of view, or for the transportation of the mail, a board has been instituted, consisting of two distinguished officers of the Corps of Engineers and a distinguished civil engineer, with assistants, who have been actively employed in carrying into effect the object of the act. They have carefully examined the route between the Potomac and the Ohio rivers; between the latter and Lake Erie; between the Alleghany and the Susquehannah; and the routes between the Delaware and the Raritan, Barnstable and Buzzards Bay, and between Boston Harbor and Narraganset Bay. Such portion of the Corps of Topographical Engineers as could be spared from the survey of the coast has been employed in surveying the very important route between the Potomac and the Ohio. Considerable progress has been made in it, but the survey can not be completed until the next season. It is gratifying to add, from the view already taken, that there is good cause to believe that this great national object may be fully accomplished. It is contemplated to commence early in the next season the execution of the other branch of the act -- that which relates to roads -- and with the survey of a route from this city, through the Southern States, to New Orleans, the importance of which can not be too highly estimated. All the officers of both the corps of engineers who could be spared from other services have been employed in exploring and surveying the routes for canals. to digest a plan for both objects for the great purposes specified will require a thorough knowledge of every part of our Union and of the relation of each part to the others and of all to the seat of the General Government. For such a digest it will be necessary that the information be full, minute, and precise. With a view to these important objects, I submit to the consideration of the Congress the propriety of enlarging both the corps of engineers -- the military and topographical. It need scarcely be remarked that the more extensively these corps are engaged in the improvement of their country, in the execution of the powers of Congress, and in aid of the States in such improvements as lie beyond that limit, when such aid is desired, the happier the effect will be in many views of which the subject is perceptible. By profiting of their science the works will always be well executed, and by giving to the officers such employment our Union will derive all the advantage, in peace as well as in war, from their talents and services which they can afford. In this mode, also, the military will be incorporated with the civil, and unfounded and injurious distinctions and prejudices of every kind be done away. To the corps themselves this service can not fail to be equally useful, since by the knowledge they would thus acquire they would be eminently better qualified in the event of war for the great purposes for which they were instituted. Our relations with the Indian tribes within our limits have not been materially changed during the year. The hostile disposition evinced by certain tribes on the Missouri during the last year still continues, and has extended in some degree to those on the Upper Mississippi and the Upper Lakes. Several parties of our citizens have been plundered and murdered by those tribes. In order to establish relations of friendship with them, Congress at the last session made an appropriation for treaties with them and for the employment of a suitable military escort to accompany and attend the commissioners at the places appointed for the negotiations. This object has not been effected. The season was too far advanced when the appropriation was made and the distance too great to permit it, but measures have been taken, and all the preparations will be completed to accomplish it at an early period in the next season. Believing that the hostility of the tribes, particularly on the Upper Mississippi and the Lakes, is in no small degree owing to the wars which are carried on between the tribes residing in that quarter, measures have been taken to bring about a general peace among them, which, if successful, will not only tend to the security of our citizens, but be of great advantage to the Indians themselves. With the exception of the tribes referred to, our relations with all the others are on the same friendly footing, and it affords me great satisfaction to add that they are making steady advances in civilization and the improvement of their condition. Many of the tribes have already made great progress in the arts of civilized life. This desirable result has been brought about by the humane and persevering policy of the Government, and particularly by means of the appropriation for the civilization of the Indians. There have been established under the provisions of this act 32 schools, containing 916 scholars, who are well instructed in several branches of literature, and likewise in agriculture and the ordinary arts of life. Under the appropriation to authorize treaties with the Creeks and Quaupaw Indians commissioners have been appointed and negotiations are now pending, but the result is not yet known. For more full information respecting the principle which has been adopted for carrying into effect the act of Congress authorizing surveys, with plans and estimates for canals and roads, and on every other branch of duty incident to the Department of War, I refer you to the report of the Secretary. The squadron in the Mediterranean has been maintained in the extent which was proposed in the report of the Secretary of the Navy of the last year, and has afforded to our commerce the necessary protection in that sea. Apprehending, however, that the unfriendly relations which have existed between Algiers and some of the powers of Europe might be extended to us, it has been thought expedient to augment the force there, and in consequence the North Carolina, a ship of the line, has been prepared, and will sail in a few days to join it. The force employed in the Gulf of Mexico and in the neighboring seas for the suppression of piracy has likewise been preserved essentially in the state in which it was during the last year. A persevering effort has been made for the accomplishment of that object, and much protection has thereby been afforded to our commerce, but still the practice is far from being suppressed. From every view which has been taken of the subject it is thought that it will be necessary rather to augment than to diminish our force in that quarter. There is reason to believe that the piracies now complained of are committed by bands of robbers who inhabit the land, and who, by preserving good intelligence with the towns and seizing favorable opportunities, rush forth and fall on unprotected merchant vessels, of which they make an easy prey. The pillage thus taken they carry to their lurking places, and dispose of afterwards at prices tending to seduce the neighboring population. This combination is understood to be of great extent, and is the more to be deprecated because the crime of piracy is often attended with the murder of the crews, these robbers knowing if any survived their lurking places would be exposed and they be caught and punished. That this atrocious practice should be carried to such extent is cause of equal surprise and regret. It is presumed that it must be attributed to the relaxed and feeble state of the local governments, since it is not doubted, from the high character of the governor of Cuba, who is well known and much respected here, that if he had the power he would promptly suppress it. Whether those robbers should be pursued on the land, the local authorities be made responsible for these atrocities, or any other measure be resorted to to suppress them, is submitted to the consideration of Congress. In execution of the laws for the suppression of the slave trade a vessel has been occasionally sent from that squadron to the coast of Africa with orders to return thence by the usual track of the slave ships, and to seize any of our vessels which might be engaged in that trade. None have been found, and it is believed that none are thus employed. It is well known, however, that the trade still exists under other flags. The health of our squadron while at Thompsons Island has been much better during the present than it was the last season. Some improvements have been made and others are contemplated there which, it is believed, will have a very salutary effect. On the Pacific, our commerce has much increased, and on that coast, as well as on that sea, the United States have many important interests which require attention and protection. It is thought that all the considerations which suggested the expediency of placing a squadron on that sea operate with augmented force for maintaining it there, at least in equal extent. For detailed information respecting the state of our maritime force on each sea, the improvement necessary to be made on either in the organization of the naval establishment generally, and of the laws for its better government I refer you to the report of the Secretary of the Navy, which is herewith communicated. The revenue of the Post Office Department has received a considerable augmentation in the present year. The current receipts will exceed the expenditures, although the transportation of the mail within the year has been much increased. A report of the PostMaster General, which is transmitted, will furnish in detail the necessary information respecting the administration and present state of this Department. In conformity with a resolution of Congress of the last session, an invitation was given to General Lafayette to visit the United States, with an assurance that a ship of war should attend at any port of France which he might designate, to receive and convey him across the Atlantic, whenever it might be convenient for him to sail. He declined the offer of the public ship from motives of delicacy, but assured me that he had long intended and would certainly visit our Union in the course of the present year. In August last he arrived at New York, where he was received with the warmth of affection and gratitude to which his very important and disinterested services and sacrifices in our Revolutionary struggle so eminently entitled him. A corresponding sentiment has since been manifested in his favor throughout every portion of our Union, and affectionate invitations have been given him to extend his visits to them. To these he has yielded all the accommodation in his power. At every designated point of rendezvous the whole population of the neighboring country has been assembled to greet him, among whom it has excited in a peculiar manner the sensibility of all to behold the surviving members of our Revolutionary contest, civil and military, who had shared with him in the toils and dangers of the war, many of them in a decrepit state. A more interesting spectacle, it is believed, was never witnessed, because none could be founded on purer principles, none proceed from higher or more disinterested motives. That the feelings of those who had fought and bled with him in a common cause should have been much excited was natural. There are, however, circumstances attending these interviews which pervaded the whole community and touched the breasts of every age, even the youngest among us. There was not an individual present who had not some relative who had not partaken in those scenes, nor an infant who had not heard the relation of them. But the circumstance which was most sensibly felt, and which his presence brought forcibly to the recollection of all, was the great cause in which we were engaged and the blessings which we have derived from our success in it. The struggle was for independence and liberty, public and personal, and in this we succeeded. The meeting with one who had borne so distinguished a part in that great struggle, and from such lofty and disinterested motives, could not fail to affect profoundly every individual and of every age. It is natural that we should all take a deep interest in his future welfare, as we do. His high claims on our Union are felt, and the sentiment universal that they should be met in a generous spirit. Under these impressions I invite your attention to the subject, with a view that, regarding his very important services, losses, and sacrifices, a provision may be made and tendered to him which shall correspond with the sentiments and be worthy the character of the American people. In turning our attention to the condition of the civilized world, in which the United States have always taken a deep interest, it is gratifying to see how large a portion of it is blessed with peace. The only wars which now exist within that limit are those between Turkey and Greece, in Europe, and between Spain and the new Governments, our neighbors, in this hemisphere. In both these wars the cause of independence, of liberty and humanity, continues to prevail. The success of Greece, when the relative population of the contending parties is considered, commands our admiration and applause, and that it has had a similar effect with the neighboring powers is obvious. The feeling of the whole civilized world is excited in a high degree in their favor. May we not hope that these sentiments, winning on the hearts of their respective Governments, may lead to a more decisive result; that they may produce an accord among them to replace Greece on the ground which she formerly held, and to which her heroic exertions at this day so eminently entitle her? With respect to the contest to which our neighbors are a party, it is evident that Spain as a power is scarcely felt in it. These new States had completely achieved their independence before it was acknowledged by the United States, and they have since maintained it with little foreign pressure. The disturbances which have appeared in certain portions of that vast territory have proceeded from internal causes, which had their origin in their former Governments and have not yet been thoroughly removed. It is manifest that these causes are daily losing their effect, and that these new States are settling down under Governments elective and representative in every branch, similar to our own. In this course we ardently wish them to persevere, under a firm conviction that it will promote their happiness. In this, their career, however, we have not interfered, believing that every people have a right to institute for themselves the government which, in their judgment, may suit them best. Our example is before them, of the good effect of which, being our neighbors, they are competent judges, and to their judgment we leave it, in the expectation that other powers will pursue the same policy. The deep interest which we take in their independence, which we have acknowledged, and in their enjoyment of all the rights incident thereto, especially in the very important one of instituting their own Governments, has been declared, and is known to the world. Separated as we are from Europe by the great Atlantic Ocean, we can have no concern in the wars of the European Governments nor in the causes which produce them. The balance of power between them, into whichever scale it may turn in its various vibrations, can not affect us. It is the interest of the United States to preserve the most friendly relations with every power and on conditions fair, equal, and applicable to all. But in regard to our neighbors our situation is different. It is impossible for the European Governments to interfere in their concerns, especially in those alluded to, which are vital, without affecting us; indeed, the motive which might induce such interference in the present state of the war between the parties, if a war it may be called, would appear to be equally applicable to us. It is gratifying to know that some of the powers with whom we enjoy a very friendly intercourse, and to whom these views have been communicated, have appeared to acquiesce in them. The augmentation of our population with the expansion of our Union and increased number of States have produced effects in certain branches of our system which merit the attention of Congress. Some of our arrangements, and particularly the judiciary establishment, were made with a view to the original 13 States only. Since then the United States have acquired a vast extent of territory; eleven new States have been admitted into the Union, and Territories have been laid off for three others, which will likewise be admitted at no distant day. An organization of the Supreme Court which assigns the judges any portion of the duties which belong to the inferior, requiring their passage over so vast a space under any distribution of the States that may now be made, if not impracticable in the execution, must render it impossible for them to discharge the duties of either branch with advantage to the Union. The duties of the Supreme Court would be of great importance if its decisions were confined to the ordinary limits of other tribunals, but when it is considered that this court decides, and in the last resort, on all the great questions which arise under our Constitution, involving those between the United States individually, between the States and the United States, and between the latter and foreign powers, too high an estimate of their importance can not be formed. The great interests of the nation seem to require that the judges of the Supreme Court should be exempted from every other duty than those which are incident to that high trust. The organization of the inferior courts would of course be adapted to circumstances. It is presumed that such an one might be formed as would secure an able and faithful discharge of their duties, and without any material augmentation of expense. The condition of the aborigines within our limits, and especially those who are within the limits of any of the States, merits likewise particular attention. Experience has shown that unless the tribes be civilized they can never be incorporated into our system in any form whatever. it has likewise shown that in the regular augmentation of our population with the extension of our settlements their situation will become deplorable, if their extinction is not menaced. Some well-digested plan which will rescue them from such calamities is due to their rights, to the rights of humanity, and to the honor of the nation. Their civilization is indispensable to their safety, and this can be accomplished only by degrees. The process must commence with the infant state, through whom some effect may be wrought on the parental. Difficulties of the most serious character present themselves to the attainment of this very desirable result on the territory on which they now reside. To remove them from it by force, even with a view to their own security and happiness, would be revolting to humanity and utterly unjustifiable. Between the limits of our present States and Territories and the Rocky Mountains and Mexico there is a vast territory to which they might be invited with inducements which might be successful. It is thought if that territory should be divided into districts by previous agreement with the tribes now residing there and civil governments be established in each, with schools for every branch of instruction in literature and the arts of civilized life, that all the tribes now within our limits might gradually be drawn there. The execution of this plan would necessarily be attended with expense, and that not inconsiderable, but it is doubted whether any other can be devised which would be less liable to that objection or more likely to succeed. In looking to the interests which the United States have on the Pacific Ocean and on the western coast of this continent, the propriety of establishing a military post at the mouth of the Columbia River, or at some other point in that quarter within our acknowledged limits, is submitted to the consideration of Congress. Our commerce and fisheries on that sea and along the coast have much increased and are increasing. It is thought that a military post, to which our ships of war might resort, would afford protection to every interest, and have a tendency to conciliate the tribes to the North West, with whom our trade is extensive. It is thought also that by the establishment of such a post the intercourse between our Western States and Territories and the Pacific and our trade with the tribes residing in the interior on each side of the Rocky Mountains would be essentially promoted. To carry this object into effect the appropriation of an adequate sum to authorize the employment of a frigate, with an officer of the Corps of Engineers, to explore the mouth of the Columbia River and the coast contiguous thereto, to enable the Executive to make such establishment at the most suitable point, is recommended to Congress. It is thought that attention is also due to the improvement of this city. The communication between the public buildings and in various other parts and the grounds around those buildings require it. It is presumed also that the completion of the canal from the Tiber to the Eastern Branch would have a very salutary effect. Great exertions have been made and expenses incurred by the citizens in improvements of various kinds; but those which are suggested belong exclusively to the Government, or are of a nature to require expenditures beyond their resources. The public lots which are still for sale would, it is not doubted, be more than adequate for these purposes. From the view above presented it is manifest that the situation of the United States is in the highest degree prosperous and happy. There is no object which as a people we can desire which we do not possess or which is not within our reach. Blessed with governments the happiest which the world ever knew, with no distinct orders in society or divided interests in any portion of the vast territory over which their dominion extends, we have every motive to cling together which can animate a virtuous and enlightened people. The great object is to preserve these blessings, and to hand them down to the latest posterity. Our experience ought to satisfy us that our progress under the most correct and provident policy will not be exempt from danger. Our institutions form an important epoch in the history of the civilized world. On their preservation and in their utmost purity everything will depend. Extending as our interests do to every part of the inhabited globe and to every sea to which our citizens are carried by their industry and enterprise, to which they are invited by the wants of others, and have a right to go, we must either protect them in the enjoyment of their rights or abandon them in certain events to waste and desolation. Our attitude is highly interesting as relates to other powers, and particularly to our southern neighbors. We have duties to perform WRT all to which we must be faithful. To every kind of danger we should pay the most vigilant and unceasing attention, remove the cause where it may be practicable, and be prepared to meet it when inevitable. Against foreign danger the policy of the Government seems to be already settled. The events of the late war admonished us to make our maritime frontier impregnable by a well-digested chain of fortifications, and to give efficient protection to our commerce by augmenting our Navy to a certain extent, which has been steadily pursued, and which it is incumbent upon us to complete as soon as circumstances will permit. In the event of war it is on the maritime frontier that we shall be assailed. It is in that quarter, therefore, that we should be prepared to meet the attack. It is there that our whole force will be called into action to prevent the destruction of our towns and the desolation and pillage of the interior. To give full effect to this policy great improvements will be indispensable. Access to those works by every practicable communication should be made easy and in every direction. The intercourse between every part of our Union should also be promoted and facilitated by the exercise of those powers which may comport with a faithful regard to the great principles of our Constitution. With respect to internal causes, those great principles point out with equal certainty the policy to be pursued. Resting on the people as our Governments do, State and National, with well-defined powers, it is of the highest importance that they severally keep within the limits prescribed to them. Fulfilling that sacred duty, it is of equal importance that the movement between them be harmonious, and in case of any disagreement, should any such occur, a calm appeal be made to the people, and that their voice be heard and promptly obeyed. Both Governments being instituted for the common good, we can not fail to prosper while those who made them are attentive to the conduct of their representatives and control their measures. In the pursuit of these great objects let a generous spirit and national views and feelings be indulged, and let every part recollect that by cherishing that spirit and improving the condition of the others in what relates to their welfare the general interest will not only be promoted, but the local advantage be reciprocated by all. I can not conclude this communication, the last of the kind which I shall have to make, without recollecting with great sensibility and heart felt gratitude the many instances of the public confidence and the generous support which I have received from my fellow citizens in the various trusts with which I have been honored. Having commenced my service in early youth, and continued it since with few and short intervals, I have witnessed the great difficulties to which our Union has been surmounted. From the present prosperous and happy state I derive a gratification which I can not express. That these blessings may be preserved and perpetuated will be the object of my fervent and unceasing prayers to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe.
The view which I have now to present to you of our affairs, foreign and domestic, realizes the most sanguine anticipations which have been entertained of the public prosperity. If we look to the whole, our growth as a nation continues to be rapid beyond example; if to the States which compose it, the same gratifying spectacle is exhibited. Our expansion over the vast territory within our limits has been great, without indicating any decline in those sections from which the emigration has been most conspicuous. We have daily gained strength by a native population in every quarter -- a population devoted to our happy system of government and cherishing the bond of union with internal affection. Experience has already shewn that the difference of climate and of industry, proceeding from that because, inseparable from such vast domains, and which under other systems might have a repulsive tendency, can not fail to produce with us under wise regulations the opposite effect. What one portion wants the other may supply; and this will be most sensibly felt by the parts most distant from each other, forming thereby a domestic market and an active intercourse between the extremes and throughout every portion of our Union. Thus by a happy distribution of power between the National and State Governments, Governments which rest exclusively on the sovereignty of the people and are fully adequate to the great purposes for which they were respectively instituted, causes which might otherwise lead to dismemberment operate powerfully to draw us closer together. In every other circumstance a correct view of the actual state of our Union must be equally gratifying to our constituents. For these blessings we owe to Almighty God, from whom we derive them, and with profound reverence, our most grateful and unceasing acknowledgments. In adverting to our relations with foreign powers, which are always an object of the highest importance, I have to remark that of the subjects which have been brought into discussion with them during the present Administration some have been satisfactorily terminated, others have been suspended, to be resumed hereafter under circumstances more favorable to success, and others are still in negotiation, with the hope that they may be adjusted with mutual accommodation to the interests and to the satisfaction of the respective parties. It has been the invariable object of this Government to cherish the most friendly relations with every power, and on principles and conditions which might make them permanent. A systematic effort has been made to place our commerce with each power on a footing of perfect reciprocity, to settle with each in a spirit of candor and liberality all existing differences, and to anticipate and remove so far as it might be practicable all causes of future variance. It having been stipulated by the 7th article of the convention of navigation and commerce which was concluded on [1822-06-24], between the United States and France, that the said convention should continue in force for two years from the first of October of that year, and for an indefinite term afterwards, unless one of the parties should declare its intention to renounce it, in which event it should cease to operate at the end of 6 months from such declaration, and no such intention having been announced, the convention having been found advantageous to both parties, it has since remained, and still remains, in force. At the time when that convention was concluded many interesting subjects were left unsettled, and particularly our claim to indemnity for spoliations which were committed on our commerce in the late wars. For these interests and claims it was in the contemplation of the parties to make provision at a subsequent day by a more comprehensive and definitive treaty. The object has been duly attended to since by the Executive, but as yet it has not been accomplished. It is hoped that a favorable opportunity will present itself for opening a negotiation which may embrace and arrange all existing differences and every other concern in which they have a common interest upon the accession of the present King of France, an event which has occurred since the close of the last session of Congress. With Great Britain our commercial intercourse rests on the same footing that it did at the last session. by the convention of 1815, the commerce between the United States and the British dominions in Europe and the East Indies was arranged on a principle of reciprocity. That convention was confirmed and continued in force, with slight exceptions, by a subsequent treaty for the term of 10 years from [1818-10-20], the date of the latter. The trade with the British colonies in the West Indies has not as yet been arranged, by treaty or otherwise, to our satisfaction. An approach to that result has been made by legislative acts, whereby many serious impediments which had been raised by the parties in defense of their respective claims were removed. An earnest desire exists, and has been manifested on the part of this Government, to place the commerce with the colonies, likewise, on a footing of reciprocal advantage, and it is hoped that the British Government, seeing the justice of the proposal and its importance to the colonies, will ere long accede to it. The commissioners who were appointed for the adjustment of the boundary between the territories of the United States and those of Great Britain, specified in the 5th article of the treaty of Ghent, having disagreed in their decision, and both Governments having agreed to establish that boundary by amicable negotiation between them, it is hoped that it may be satisfactorily adjusted in that mode. The boundary specified by the 6th article has been established by the decision of the commissioners. From the progress made in that provided for by the 7th, according to a report recently received, there is good because to presume that it will be settled in the course of the ensuing year. It is a because of serious regret that no arrangement has yet been finally concluded between the two Governments to secure by joint cooperation the suppression of the slave trade. It was the object of the British Government in the early stages of the negotiation to adopt a plan for the suppression which should include the concession of the mutual right of search by the ships of war of each party of the vessels of the other for suspected offenders. This was objected to by this Government on the principle that as the right of search was a right of war of a belligerent toward a neutral power it might have an ill effect to extend it by treaty, to an offense which had been made comparatively mild, to a time of peace. Anxious, however, for the suppression of this trade, it was thought advisable, in compliance with a resolution of the House of Representatives, founded on an act of Congress, to propose to the British Government an expedient which should be free from that objection and more effectual for the object, by making it piratical. In that mode the enormity of the crime would place the offenders out of the protection of their Government, and involve no question of search or other question between the parties touching their respective rights. It was believed, also, that it would completely suppress the trade in the vessels of both parties, and by their respective citizens and subjects in those of other powers, with whom it was hoped that the odium which would thereby be attached to it would produce a corresponding arrangement, and by means thereof its entire extirpation forever. A convention to this effect was concluded and signed in London on [1824-03-13], by plenipotentiaries duly authorized by both Governments, to the ratification of which certain obstacles have arisen which are not yet entirely removed. The difference between the parties still remaining has been reduced to a point not of sufficient magnitude, as is presumed, to be permitted to defeat an object so near to the heart of both nations and so desirable to the friends of humanity throughout the world. As objections, however, to the principle recommended by the House of Representatives, or at least to the consequences inseparable from it, and which are understood to apply to the law, have been raised, which may deserve a reconsideration of the whole subject, I have thought it proper to suspend the conclusion of a new convention until the definitive sentiments of Congress may be ascertained. The documents relating to the negotiation are with that intent submitted to your consideration. Our commerce with Sweden has been placed on a footing of perfect reciprocity by treaty, and with Russia, the Netherlands, Prussia, the free Hanseatic cities, the Dukedom of Oldenburg, and Sardinia by internal regulations on each side, founded on mutual agreement between the respective Governments. The principles upon which the commercial policy of the United States is founded are to be traced to an early period. They are essentially connected with those upon which their independence was declared, and owe their origin to the enlightened men who took the lead in our affairs at that important epoch. They are developed in their first treaty of commerce with France of [1778-02-06], and by a formal commission which was instituted immediately after the conclusion of their Revolutionary struggle, for the purpose of negotiating treaties of commerce with every European power. The first treaty of the United States with Prussia, which was negotiated by that commission, affords a signal illustration of those principles. The act of Congress of [1815-03-03], adopted immediately after the return of a general peace, was a new overture to foreign nations to establish our commercial relations with them on the basis of free and equal reciprocity. That principle has pervaded all the acts of Congress and all the negotiations of the Executive on the subject. A convention for the settlement of important questions in relation to the North West coast of this continent and its adjoining seas was concluded and signed at St. Petersburg on the 5th day of April last by the minister plenipotentiary of the United States and plenipotentiaries of the Imperial Government of Russia. It will immediately be laid before the Senate for the exercise of the constitutional authority of that body with reference to its ratification. It is proper to add that the manner in which this negotiation was invited and conducted on the part of the Emperor has been very satisfactory. The great and extraordinary changes which have happened in the Governments of Spain and Portugal within the last two years, without seriously affecting the friendly relations which under all of them have been maintained with those powers by the United States, have been obstacles to the adjustment of the particular subjects of discussion which have arisen with each. A resolution of the Senate adopted at their last session called for information as to the effect produced upon our relations with Spain by the recognition on the part of the United States of the independent South American Governments. The papers containing that information are now communicated to Congress. A charge' d'affaires has been received from the independent Government of Brazil. That country, heretofore a colonial possession of Portugal, had some years since been proclaimed by the Sovereign of Portugal himself an independent Kingdom. Since his return to Lisbon a revolution in Brazil has established a new Government there with an imperial title, at the head of which is placed a prince, in whom the regency had been vested by the King at the time of his departure. There is reason to expect that by amicable negotiation the independence of Brazil will ere long be recognized by Portugal herself. With the remaining powers of Europe, with those on the coast of Barbary, and with all the new South American States our relations are of a friendly character. We have ministers plenipotentiary residing with the Republics of Colombia and Chile, and have received ministers of the same rank from Columbia, Guatemala, Buenos Ayres, and Mexico. Our commercial relations with all those States are mutually beneficial and increasing. With the Republic of Colombia a treaty of commerce has been formed, of which a copy is received and the original daily expected. A negotiation for a like treaty would have been commenced with Buenos Ayres had it not been prevented by the indisposition and lamented decease of Mr. Rodney, our minister there, and to whose memory the most respectful attention has been shewn by the Government of that Republic. An advantageous alteration in our treaty with Tunis has been obtained by our consular agent residing there, the official document of which when received will be laid before the Senate. The attention of the Government has been drawn with great solicitude to other subjects, and particularly to that relating to a state of maritime war, involving the relative rights of neutral and belligerent in such wars. Most of the difficulties which we have experienced and of the losses which we have sustained since the establishment of our independence have proceeded from the unsettled state of those rights and the extent to which the belligerent claim has been carried against the neutral party. It is impossible to look back on the occurrences of the late wars in Europe, and to behold the disregard which was paid to our rights as a neutral power, and the waste which was made of our commerce by the parties to those wars by various acts of their respective Governments, and under the pretext by each that the other had set the example, without great mortification and a fixed purpose never to submit to the like in future. An attempt to remove those causes of possible variance by friendly negotiation and on just principles which should be applicable to all parties could, it was presumed, be viewed by none other than as a proof of an earnest desire to preserve those relations with every power. In the late war between France and Spain a crisis occurred in which it seemed probable that all controvertible principles involved in such wars might be brought into discussion and settled to the satisfaction of all parties. Propositions having this object in view have been made to the Governments of Great Britain, France, Russia, and of other powers, which have been received in a friendly manner by all, but as yet no treaty has been formed with either for its accomplishment. The policy will, it is presumed, be persevered in, and in the hope that it may be successful. It will always be recollected that with one of the parties to those wars and from whom we received those injuries, we sought redress by war. From the other, by whose then reigning Government our vessels were seized in port as well as at sea and their cargoes confiscated, indemnity has been expected, but has not yet been rendered. It was under the influence of the latter that our vessels were likewise seized by the Governments of Spain, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, and Naples, and from whom indemnity has been claimed and is still expected, with the exception of Spain, by whom it has been rendered. With both parties we had abundant because of war, but we had no alternative but to resist that which was most powerful at sea and pressed us nearest at home. With this all differences were settled by a treaty, founded on conditions fair and honorable to both, and which has been so far executed with perfect good faith. It has been earnestly hoped that the other would of its own accord, and from a sentiment of justice and conciliation, make to our citizens the indemnity to which they are entitled, and thereby remove from our relations any just because of discontent on our side. It is estimated that the receipts into the Treasury during the current year, exclusive of loans, will exceed $18.5M, which, with the sum remaining in the Treasury at the end of the last year, amounting to $9,463,922.81 will, after discharging the current disbursements of the year, the interest on the public debt, and upward of $11,633,011.52 of the principal, leave a balance of more than $3M in the Treasury on the first day of January next. A larger amount of the debt contracted during the late war, bearing an interest of 6%, becoming redeemable in the course of the ensuing year than could be discharged by the ordinary revenue, the act of the 26th of May authorized a loan of $5M at 4.5% to meet the same. By this arrangement an annual saving will accrue to the public of $75,000. Under the act of the 24th of May last a loan of $5M was authorized, in order to meet the awards under the Florida treaty, which was negotiated at par with the Bank of the United States at 4.5%, the limit of interest fixed by the act. By this provision the claims of our citizens who had sustained so great a loss by spoliations, and from whom indemnity had been so long withheld, were promptly paid. For these advances the public will be amply repaid at no distant day by the sale of the lands in Florida. Of the great advantages resulting from the acquisition of the Territory in other respects too high an estimate can not be formed. It is estimated that the receipts into the Treasury during the year 1825 will be sufficient to meet the disbursements of the year, including the sum of $10M, which is annually appropriated by the act of constituting the sinking fund to the payment of the principal and interest of the public debt. The whole amount of the public debt on the first of January next may be estimated at $86M, inclusive of $2.5M of the loan authorized by the act of the 26th of May last. In this estimate is included a stock of $7M, issued for the purchase of that amount of the capital stock of the Bank of the United States, and which, as the stock of the bank still held by the Government will at least be fully equal to its reimbursement, ought not to be considered as constituting a part of the public debt. Estimating, then, the whole amount of the public debt at $79M and regarding the annual receipts and expenditures of the Government, a well-founded hope may be entertained that, should no unexpected event occur, the whole of the public debt may be discharged in the course of 10 years, and the Government be left at liberty thereafter to apply such portion of the revenue as may not be necessary for current expenses to such other objects as may be most conducive to the public security and welfare. That the sums applicable to these objects will be very considerable may be fairly concluded when it is recollected that a large amount of the public revenue has been applied since the late war On many of these objects the expense will annually be diminished and cease at no distant period on most of them. On the [1917-01-01], the public debt amounted to $123,491,965.16, and, notwithstanding the large sums which have been applied to these objects, it has been reduced since that period $37,446,961.78. The last portion of the public debt will be redeemable on [1835-01-01], and, while there is the best reason to believe that the resources of the Government will be continually adequate to such portions of it as may become due in the interval, it is recommended to Congress to seize every opportunity which may present itself to reduce the rate of interest on every part thereof. The high state of the public credit and the great abundance of money are at this time very favorable to such a result. It must be very gratifying to our fellow citizens to witness this flourishing state of the public finances when it is recollected that no burthen whatever has been imposed upon them. The military establishment in all its branches, in the performance of the various duties assigned to each, justifies the favorable view which was presented of the efficiency of its organization at the last session. All the appropriations have been regularly applied to the objects intended by Congress, and so far as the disbursements have been made the accounts have been rendered and settled without loss to the public. The condition of the Army itself, as relates to the officers and men, in science and discipline is highly respectable. The Military Academy, on which the Army essentially rests, and to which it is much indebted for this state of improvement, has attained, in comparison with any other institution of a like kind, a high degree of perfection. Experience, however, has shewn that the dispersed condition of the corps of artillery is unfavorable to the discipline of that important branch of the military establishment. To remedy this inconvenience, eleven companies have been assembled at the fortification erected at Old Point Comfort as a school for artillery instruction, with intention as they shall be perfected in the various duties of that service to order them to other posts, and, to supply their places with other companies for instruction in like manner. In this mode a complete knowledge of the science and duties of this arm will be extended throughout the whole corps of artillery. But to carry this object fully into effect will require the aid of Congress, to obtain which the subject is now submitted to your consideration. Of the progress which has been made in the construction of fortifications for the permanent defense of our maritime frontier, according to the plan decided on and to the extent of the existing appropriations, the report of the Secretary of War, which is herewith communicated, will give a detailed account. Their final completion can not fail to give great additional security to that frontier, and to diminish proportionably the expense of defending it in the event of war. The provisions in several acts of Congress of the last session for the improvement of the navigation of the Mississippi and the Ohio, of the harbor of Presqu'isle, on Lake Erie, and the repair of the Plymouth beach are in a course of regular execution; and there is reason to believe that the appropriation in each instance will be adequate to the object. To carry these improvements fully into effect, the superintendence of them has been assigned to officers of the Corps of Engineers. Under the act of 30th April last, authorizing the President to because a survey to be made, with the necessary plans and estimates, of such roads and canals as he might deem of national importance in a commercial or military point of view, or for the transportation of the mail, a board has been instituted, consisting of two distinguished officers of the Corps of Engineers and a distinguished civil engineer, with assistants, who have been actively employed in carrying into effect the object of the act. They have carefully examined the route between the Potomac and the Ohio rivers; between the latter and Lake Erie; between the Alleghany and the Susquehannah; and the routes between the Delaware and the Raritan, Barnstable and Buzzards Bay, and between Boston Harbor and Narraganset Bay. Such portion of the Corps of Topographical Engineers as could be spared from the survey of the coast has been employed in surveying the very important route between the Potomac and the Ohio. Considerable progress has been made in it, but the survey can not be completed until the next season. It is gratifying to add, from the view already taken, that there is good because to believe that this great national object may be fully accomplished. It is contemplated to commence early in the next season the execution of the other branch of the act -- that which relates to roads -- and with the survey of a route from this city, through the Southern States, to New Orleans, the importance of which can not be too highly estimated. All the officers of both the corps of engineers who could be spared from other services have been employed in exploring and surveying the routes for canals. to digest a plan for both objects for the great purposes specified will require a thorough knowledge of every part of our Union and of the relation of each part to the others and of all to the seat of the General Government. For such a digest it will be necessary that the information be full, minute, and precise. With a view to these important objects, I submit to the consideration of the Congress the propriety of enlarging both the corps of engineers -- the military and topographical. It need scarcely be remarked that the more extensively these corps are engaged in the improvement of their country, in the execution of the powers of Congress, and in aid of the States in such improvements as lie beyond that limit, when such aid is desired, the happier the effect will be in many views of which the subject is perceptible. By profiting of their science the works will always be well executed, and by giving to the officers such employment our Union will derive all the advantage, in peace as well as in war, from their talents and services which they can afford. In this mode, also, the military will be incorporated with the civil, and unfounded and injurious distinctions and prejudices of every kind be done away. To the corps themselves this service can not fail to be equally useful, since by the knowledge they would thus acquire they would be eminently better qualified in the event of war for the great purposes for which they were instituted. Our relations with the Indian tribes within our limits have not been materially changed during the year. The hostile disposition evinced by certain tribes on the Missouri during the last year still continues, and has extended in some degree to those on the Upper Mississippi and the Upper Lakes. Several parties of our citizens have been plundered and murdered by those tribes. In order to establish relations of friendship with them, Congress at the last session made an appropriation for treaties with them and for the employment of a suitable military escort to accompany and attend the commissioners at the places appointed for the negotiations. This object has not been effected. The season was too far advanced when the appropriation was made and the distance too great to permit it, but measures have been taken, and all the preparations will be completed to accomplish it at an early period in the next season. Believing that the hostility of the tribes, particularly on the Upper Mississippi and the Lakes, is in no small degree owing to the wars which are carried on between the tribes residing in that quarter, measures have been taken to bring about a general peace among them, which, if successful, will not only tend to the security of our citizens, but be of great advantage to the Indians themselves. With the exception of the tribes referred to, our relations with all the others are on the same friendly footing, and it affords me great satisfaction to add that they are making steady advances in civilization and the improvement of their condition. Many of the tribes have already made great progress in the arts of civilized life. This desirable result has been brought about by the humane and persevering policy of the Government, and particularly by means of the appropriation for the civilization of the Indians. There have been established under the provisions of this act 32 schools, containing 916 scholars, who are well instructed in several branches of literature, and likewise in agriculture and the ordinary arts of life. Under the appropriation to authorize treaties with the Creeks and Quaupaw Indians commissioners have been appointed and negotiations are now pending, but the result is not yet known. For more full information respecting the principle which has been adopted for carrying into effect the act of Congress authorizing surveys, with plans and estimates for canals and roads, and on every other branch of duty incident to the Department of War, I refer you to the report of the Secretary. The squadron in the Mediterranean has been maintained in the extent which was proposed in the report of the Secretary of the Navy of the last year, and has afforded to our commerce the necessary protection in that sea. Apprehending, however, that the unfriendly relations which have existed between Algiers and some of the powers of Europe might be extended to us, it has been thought expedient to augment the force there, and in consequence the North Carolina, a ship of the line, has been prepared, and will sail in a few days to join it. The force employed in the Gulf of Mexico and in the neighboring seas for the suppression of piracy has likewise been preserved essentially in the state in which it was during the last year. A persevering effort has been made for the accomplishment of that object, and much protection has thereby been afforded to our commerce, but still the practice is far from being suppressed. From every view which has been taken of the subject it is thought that it will be necessary rather to augment than to diminish our force in that quarter. There is reason to believe that the piracies now complained of are committed by bands of robbers who inhabit the land, and who, by preserving good intelligence with the towns and seizing favorable opportunities, rush forth and fall on unprotected merchant vessels, of which they make an easy prey. The pillage thus taken they carry to their lurking places, and dispose of afterwards at prices tending to seduce the neighboring population. This combination is understood to be of great extent, and is the more to be deprecated because the crime of piracy is often attended with the murder of the crews, these robbers knowing if any survived their lurking places would be exposed and they be caught and punished. That this atrocious practice should be carried to such extent is because of equal surprise and regret. It is presumed that it must be attributed to the relaxed and feeble state of the local governments, since it is not doubted, from the high character of the governor of Cuba, who is well known and much respected here, that if he had the power he would promptly suppress it. Whether those robbers should be pursued on the land, the local authorities be made responsible for these atrocities, or any other measure be resorted to to suppress them, is submitted to the consideration of Congress. In execution of the laws for the suppression of the slave trade a vessel has been occasionally sent from that squadron to the coast of Africa with orders to return thence by the usual track of the slave ships, and to seize any of our vessels which might be engaged in that trade. None have been found, and it is believed that none are thus employed. It is well known, however, that the trade still exists under other flags. The health of our squadron while at Thompsons Island has been much better during the present than it was the last season. Some improvements have been made and others are contemplated there which, it is believed, will have a very salutary effect. On the Pacific, our commerce has much increased, and on that coast, as well as on that sea, the United States have many important interests which require attention and protection. It is thought that all the considerations which suggested the expediency of placing a squadron on that sea operate with augmented force for maintaining it there, at least in equal extent. For detailed information respecting the state of our maritime force on each sea, the improvement necessary to be made on either in the organization of the naval establishment generally, and of the laws for its better government I refer you to the report of the Secretary of the Navy, which is herewith communicated. The revenue of the Post Office Department has received a considerable augmentation in the present year. The current receipts will exceed the expenditures, although the transportation of the mail within the year has been much increased. A report of the PostMaster General, which is transmitted, will furnish in detail the necessary information respecting the administration and present state of this Department. In conformity with a resolution of Congress of the last session, an invitation was given to General Lafayette to visit the United States, with an assurance that a ship of war should attend at any port of France which he might designate, to receive and convey him across the Atlantic, whenever it might be convenient for him to sail. He declined the offer of the public ship from motives of delicacy, but assured me that he had long intended and would certainly visit our Union in the course of the present year. In August last he arrived at New York, where he was received with the warmth of affection and gratitude to which his very important and disinterested services and sacrifices in our Revolutionary struggle so eminently entitled him. A corresponding sentiment has since been manifested in his favor throughout every portion of our Union, and affectionate invitations have been given him to extend his visits to them. To these he has yielded all the accommodation in his power. At every designated point of rendezvous the whole population of the neighboring country has been assembled to greet him, among whom it has excited in a peculiar manner the sensibility of all to behold the surviving members of our Revolutionary contest, civil and military, who had shared with him in the toils and dangers of the war, many of them in a decrepit state. A more interesting spectacle, it is believed, was never witnessed, because none could be founded on purer principles, none proceed from higher or more disinterested motives. That the feelings of those who had fought and bled with him in a common because should have been much excited was natural. There are, however, circumstances attending these interviews which pervaded the whole community and touched the breasts of every age, even the youngest among us. There was not an individual present who had not some relative who had not partaken in those scenes, nor an infant who had not heard the relation of them. But the circumstance which was most sensibly felt, and which his presence brought forcibly to the recollection of all, was the great because in which we were engaged and the blessings which we have derived from our success in it. The struggle was for independence and liberty, public and personal, and in this we succeeded. The meeting with one who had borne so distinguished a part in that great struggle, and from such lofty and disinterested motives, could not fail to affect profoundly every individual and of every age. It is natural that we should all take a deep interest in his future welfare, as we do. His high claims on our Union are felt, and the sentiment universal that they should be met in a generous spirit. Under these impressions I invite your attention to the subject, with a view that, regarding his very important services, losses, and sacrifices, a provision may be made and tendered to him which shall correspond with the sentiments and be worthy the character of the American people. In turning our attention to the condition of the civilized world, in which the United States have always taken a deep interest, it is gratifying to see how large a portion of it is blessed with peace. The only wars which now exist within that limit are those between Turkey and Greece, in Europe, and between Spain and the new Governments, our neighbors, in this hemisphere. In both these wars the because of independence, of liberty and humanity, continues to prevail. The success of Greece, when the relative population of the contending parties is considered, commands our admiration and applause, and that it has had a similar effect with the neighboring powers is obvious. The feeling of the whole civilized world is excited in a high degree in their favor. May we not hope that these sentiments, winning on the hearts of their respective Governments, may lead to a more decisive result; that they may produce an accord among them to replace Greece on the ground which she formerly held, and to which her heroic exertions at this day so eminently entitle her? With respect to the contest to which our neighbors are a party, it is evident that Spain as a power is scarcely felt in it. These new States had completely achieved their independence before it was acknowledged by the United States, and they have since maintained it with little foreign pressure. The disturbances which have appeared in certain portions of that vast territory have proceeded from internal causes, which had their origin in their former Governments and have not yet been thoroughly removed. It is manifest that these causes are daily losing their effect, and that these new States are settling down under Governments elective and representative in every branch, similar to our own. In this course we ardently wish them to persevere, under a firm conviction that it will promote their happiness. In this, their career, however, we have not interfered, believing that every people have a right to institute for themselves the government which, in their judgment, may suit them best. Our example is before them, of the good effect of which, being our neighbors, they are competent judges, and to their judgment we leave it, in the expectation that other powers will pursue the same policy. The deep interest which we take in their independence, which we have acknowledged, and in their enjoyment of all the rights incident thereto, especially in the very important one of instituting their own Governments, has been declared, and is known to the world. Separated as we are from Europe by the great Atlantic Ocean, we can have no concern in the wars of the European Governments nor in the causes which produce them. The balance of power between them, into whichever scale it may turn in its various vibrations, can not affect us. It is the interest of the United States to preserve the most friendly relations with every power and on conditions fair, equal, and applicable to all. But in regard to our neighbors our situation is different. It is impossible for the European Governments to interfere in their concerns, especially in those alluded to, which are vital, without affecting us; indeed, the motive which might induce such interference in the present state of the war between the parties, if a war it may be called, would appear to be equally applicable to us. It is gratifying to know that some of the powers with whom we enjoy a very friendly intercourse, and to whom these views have been communicated, have appeared to acquiesce in them. The augmentation of our population with the expansion of our Union and increased number of States have produced effects in certain branches of our system which merit the attention of Congress. Some of our arrangements, and particularly the judiciary establishment, were made with a view to the original 13 States only. Since then the United States have acquired a vast extent of territory; eleven new States have been admitted into the Union, and Territories have been laid off for three others, which will likewise be admitted at no distant day. An organization of the Supreme Court which assigns the judges any portion of the duties which belong to the inferior, requiring their passage over so vast a space under any distribution of the States that may now be made, if not impracticable in the execution, must render it impossible for them to discharge the duties of either branch with advantage to the Union. The duties of the Supreme Court would be of great importance if its decisions were confined to the ordinary limits of other tribunals, but when it is considered that this court decides, and in the last resort, on all the great questions which arise under our Constitution, involving those between the United States individually, between the States and the United States, and between the latter and foreign powers, too high an estimate of their importance can not be formed. The great interests of the nation seem to require that the judges of the Supreme Court should be exempted from every other duty than those which are incident to that high trust. The organization of the inferior courts would of course be adapted to circumstances. It is presumed that such an one might be formed as would secure an able and faithful discharge of their duties, and without any material augmentation of expense. The condition of the aborigines within our limits, and especially those who are within the limits of any of the States, merits likewise particular attention. Experience has shown that unless the tribes be civilized they can never be incorporated into our system in any form whatever. it has likewise shown that in the regular augmentation of our population with the extension of our settlements their situation will become deplorable, if their extinction is not menaced. Some well-digested plan which will rescue them from such calamities is due to their rights, to the rights of humanity, and to the honor of the nation. Their civilization is indispensable to their safety, and this can be accomplished only by degrees. The process must commence with the infant state, through whom some effect may be wrought on the parental. Difficulties of the most serious character present themselves to the attainment of this very desirable result on the territory on which they now reside. To remove them from it by force, even with a view to their own security and happiness, would be revolting to humanity and utterly unjustifiable. Between the limits of our present States and Territories and the Rocky Mountains and Mexico there is a vast territory to which they might be invited with inducements which might be successful. It is thought if that territory should be divided into districts by previous agreement with the tribes now residing there and civil governments be established in each, with schools for every branch of instruction in literature and the arts of civilized life, that all the tribes now within our limits might gradually be drawn there. The execution of this plan would necessarily be attended with expense, and that not inconsiderable, but it is doubted whether any other can be devised which would be less liable to that objection or more likely to succeed. In looking to the interests which the United States have on the Pacific Ocean and on the western coast of this continent, the propriety of establishing a military post at the mouth of the Columbia River, or at some other point in that quarter within our acknowledged limits, is submitted to the consideration of Congress. Our commerce and fisheries on that sea and along the coast have much increased and are increasing. It is thought that a military post, to which our ships of war might resort, would afford protection to every interest, and have a tendency to conciliate the tribes to the North West, with whom our trade is extensive. It is thought also that by the establishment of such a post the intercourse between our Western States and Territories and the Pacific and our trade with the tribes residing in the interior on each side of the Rocky Mountains would be essentially promoted. To carry this object into effect the appropriation of an adequate sum to authorize the employment of a frigate, with an officer of the Corps of Engineers, to explore the mouth of the Columbia River and the coast contiguous thereto, to enable the Executive to make such establishment at the most suitable point, is recommended to Congress. It is thought that attention is also due to the improvement of this city. The communication between the public buildings and in various other parts and the grounds around those buildings require it. It is presumed also that the completion of the canal from the Tiber to the Eastern Branch would have a very salutary effect. Great exertions have been made and expenses incurred by the citizens in improvements of various kinds; but those which are suggested belong exclusively to the Government, or are of a nature to require expenditures beyond their resources. The public lots which are still for sale would, it is not doubted, be more than adequate for these purposes. From the view above presented it is manifest that the situation of the United States is in the highest degree prosperous and happy. There is no object which as a people we can desire which we do not possess or which is not within our reach. Blessed with governments the happiest which the world ever knew, with no distinct orders in society or divided interests in any portion of the vast territory over which their dominion extends, we have every motive to cling together which can animate a virtuous and enlightened people. The great object is to preserve these blessings, and to hand them down to the latest posterity. Our experience ought to satisfy us that our progress under the most correct and provident policy will not be exempt from danger. Our institutions form an important epoch in the history of the civilized world. On their preservation and in their utmost purity everything will depend. Extending as our interests do to every part of the inhabited globe and to every sea to which our citizens are carried by their industry and enterprise, to which they are invited by the wants of others, and have a right to go, we must either protect them in the enjoyment of their rights or abandon them in certain events to waste and desolation. Our attitude is highly interesting as relates to other powers, and particularly to our southern neighbors. We have duties to perform WRT all to which we must be faithful. To every kind of danger we should pay the most vigilant and unceasing attention, remove the because where it may be practicable, and be prepared to meet it when inevitable. Against foreign danger the policy of the Government seems to be already settled. The events of the late war admonished us to make our maritime frontier impregnable by a well-digested chain of fortifications, and to give efficient protection to our commerce by augmenting our Navy to a certain extent, which has been steadily pursued, and which it is incumbent upon us to complete as soon as circumstances will permit. In the event of war it is on the maritime frontier that we shall be assailed. It is in that quarter, therefore, that we should be prepared to meet the attack. It is there that our whole force will be called into action to prevent the destruction of our towns and the desolation and pillage of the interior. To give full effect to this policy great improvements will be indispensable. Access to those works by every practicable communication should be made easy and in every direction. The intercourse between every part of our Union should also be promoted and facilitated by the exercise of those powers which may comport with a faithful regard to the great principles of our Constitution. With respect to internal causes, those great principles point out with equal certainty the policy to be pursued. Resting on the people as our Governments do, State and National, with well-defined powers, it is of the highest importance that they severally keep within the limits prescribed to them. Fulfilling that sacred duty, it is of equal importance that the movement between them be harmonious, and in case of any disagreement, should any such occur, a calm appeal be made to the people, and that their voice be heard and promptly obeyed. Both Governments being instituted for the common good, we can not fail to prosper while those who made them are attentive to the conduct of their representatives and control their measures. In the pursuit of these great objects let a generous spirit and national views and feelings be indulged, and let every part recollect that by cherishing that spirit and improving the condition of the others in what relates to their welfare the general interest will not only be promoted, but the local advantage be reciprocated by all. I can not conclude this communication, the last of the kind which I shall have to make, without recollecting with great sensibility and heart felt gratitude the many instances of the public confidence and the generous support which I have received from my fellow citizens in the various trusts with which I have been honored. Having commenced my service in early youth, and continued it since with few and short intervals, I have witnessed the great difficulties to which our Union has been surmounted. From the present prosperous and happy state I derive a gratification which I can not express. That these blessings may be preserved and perpetuated will be the object of my fervent and unceasing prayers to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe.
the view which i have now to present to you of our affairs foreign and domestic realizes the most sanguine anticipations which have been entertained of the public prosperity if we look to the whole our growth as a nation continues to be rapid beyond example if to the states which compose it the same gratifying spectacle is exhibited our expansion over the vast territory within our limits has been great without indicating any decline in those sections from which the emigration has been most conspicuous we have daily gained strength by a native population in every quarter a population devoted to our happy system of government and cherishing the bond of union with internal affection experience has already shewn that the difference of climate and of industry proceeding from that because inseparable from such vast domains and which under other systems might have a repulsive tendency can not fail to produce with us under wise regulations the opposite effect what one portion wants the other may supply and this will be most sensibly felt by the parts most distant from each other forming thereby a domestic market and an active intercourse between the extremes and throughout every portion of our union thus by a happy distribution of power between the national and state governments governments which rest exclusively on the sovereignty of the people and are fully adequate to the great purposes for which they were respectively instituted causes which might otherwise lead to dismemberment operate powerfully to draw us closer together in every other circumstance a correct view of the actual state of our union must be equally gratifying to our constituents for these blessings we owe to almighty god from whom we derive them and with profound reverence our most grateful and unceasing acknowledgments in adverting to our relations with foreign powers which are always an object of the highest importance i have to remark that of the subjects which have been brought into discussion with them during the present administration some have been satisfactorily terminated others have been suspended to be resumed hereafter under circumstances more favorable to success and others are still in negotiation with the hope that they may be adjusted with mutual accommodation to the interests and to the satisfaction of the respective parties it has been the invariable object of this government to cherish the most friendly relations with every power and on principles and conditions which might make them permanent a systematic effort has been made to place our commerce with each power on a footing of perfect reciprocity to settle with each in a spirit of candor and liberality all existing differences and to anticipate and remove so far as it might be practicable all causes of future variance it having been stipulated by the 7th article of the convention of navigation and commerce which was concluded on between the united states and france that the said convention should continue in force for two years from the first of october of that year and for an indefinite term afterwards unless one of the parties should declare its intention to renounce it in which event it should cease to operate at the end of 6 months from such declaration and no such intention having been announced the convention having been found advantageous to both parties it has since remained and still remains in force at the time when that convention was concluded many interesting subjects were left unsettled and particularly our claim to indemnity for spoliations which were committed on our commerce in the late wars for these interests and claims it was in the contemplation of the parties to make provision at a subsequent day by a more comprehensive and definitive treaty the object has been duly attended to since by the executive but as yet it has not been accomplished it is hoped that a favorable opportunity will present itself for opening a negotiation which may embrace and arrange all existing differences and every other concern in which they have a common interest upon the accession of the present king of france an event which has occurred since the close of the last session of congress with great britain our commercial intercourse rests on the same footing that it did at the last session by the convention of 1815 the commerce between the united states and the british dominions in europe and the east indies was arranged on a principle of reciprocity that convention was confirmed and continued in force with slight exceptions by a subsequent treaty for the term of 10 years from the date of the latter the trade with the british colonies in the west indies has not as yet been arranged by treaty or otherwise to our satisfaction an approach to that result has been made by legislative acts whereby many serious impediments which had been raised by the parties in defense of their respective claims were removed an earnest desire exists and has been manifested on the part of this government to place the commerce with the colonies likewise on a footing of reciprocal advantage and it is hoped that the british government seeing the justice of the proposal and its importance to the colonies will ere long accede to it the commissioners who were appointed for the adjustment of the boundary between the territories of the united states and those of great britain specified in the 5th article of the treaty of ghent having disagreed in their decision and both governments having agreed to establish that boundary by amicable negotiation between them it is hoped that it may be satisfactorily adjusted in that mode the boundary specified by the 6th article has been established by the decision of the commissioners from the progress made in that provided for by the 7th according to a report recently received there is good because to presume that it will be settled in the course of the ensuing year it is a because of serious regret that no arrangement has yet been finally concluded between the two governments to secure by joint cooperation the suppression of the slave trade it was the object of the british government in the early stages of the negotiation to adopt a plan for the suppression which should include the concession of the mutual right of search by the ships of war of each party of the vessels of the other for suspected offenders this was objected to by this government on the principle that as the right of search was a right of war of a belligerent toward a neutral power it might have an ill effect to extend it by treaty to an offense which had been made comparatively mild to a time of peace anxious however for the suppression of this trade it was thought advisable in compliance with a resolution of the house of representatives founded on an act of congress to propose to the british government an expedient which should be free from that objection and more effectual for the object by making it piratical in that mode the enormity of the crime would place the offenders out of the protection of their government and involve no question of search or other question between the parties touching their respective rights it was believed also that it would completely suppress the trade in the vessels of both parties and by their respective citizens and subjects in those of other powers with whom it was hoped that the odium which would thereby be attached to it would produce a corresponding arrangement and by means thereof its entire extirpation forever a convention to this effect was concluded and signed in london on by plenipotentiaries duly authorized by both governments to the ratification of which certain obstacles have arisen which are not yet entirely removed the difference between the parties still remaining has been reduced to a point not of sufficient magnitude as is presumed to be permitted to defeat an object so near to the heart of both nations and so desirable to the friends of humanity throughout the world as objections however to the principle recommended by the house of representatives or at least to the consequences inseparable from it and which are understood to apply to the law have been raised which may deserve a reconsideration of the whole subject i have thought it proper to suspend the conclusion of a new convention until the definitive sentiments of congress may be ascertained the documents relating to the negotiation are with that intent submitted to your consideration our commerce with sweden has been placed on a footing of perfect reciprocity by treaty and with russia the netherlands prussia the free hanseatic cities the dukedom of oldenburg and sardinia by internal regulations on each side founded on mutual agreement between the respective governments the principles upon which the commercial policy of the united states is founded are to be traced to an early period they are essentially connected with those upon which their independence was declared and owe their origin to the enlightened men who took the lead in our affairs at that important epoch they are developed in their first treaty of commerce with france of and by a formal commission which was instituted immediately after the conclusion of their revolutionary struggle for the purpose of negotiating treaties of commerce with every european power the first treaty of the united states with prussia which was negotiated by that commission affords a signal illustration of those principles the act of congress of adopted immediately after the return of a general peace was a new overture to foreign nations to establish our commercial relations with them on the basis of free and equal reciprocity that principle has pervaded all the acts of congress and all the negotiations of the executive on the subject a convention for the settlement of important questions in relation to the north west coast of this continent and its adjoining seas was concluded and signed at petersburg on the 5th day of april last by the minister plenipotentiary of the united states and plenipotentiaries of the imperial government of russia it will immediately be laid before the senate for the exercise of the constitutional authority of that body with reference to its ratification it is proper to add that the manner in which this negotiation was invited and conducted on the part of the emperor has been very satisfactory the great and extraordinary changes which have happened in the governments of spain and portugal within the last two years without seriously affecting the friendly relations which under all of them have been maintained with those powers by the united states have been obstacles to the adjustment of the particular subjects of discussion which have arisen with each a resolution of the senate adopted at their last session called for information as to the effect produced upon our relations with spain by the recognition on the part of the united states of the independent south american governments the papers containing that information are now communicated to congress a charge has been received from the independent government of brazil that country heretofore a colonial possession of portugal had some years since been proclaimed by the sovereign of portugal himself an independent kingdom since his return to lisbon a revolution in brazil has established a new government there with an imperial title at the head of which is placed a prince in whom the regency had been vested by the king at the time of his departure there is reason to expect that by amicable negotiation the independence of brazil will ere long be recognized by portugal herself with the remaining powers of europe with those on the coast of barbary and with all the new south american states our relations are of a friendly character we have ministers plenipotentiary residing with the republics of colombia and chile and have received ministers of the same rank from columbia guatemala buenos ayres and mexico our commercial relations with all those states are mutually beneficial and increasing with the republic of colombia a treaty of commerce has been formed of which a copy is received and the original daily expected a negotiation for a like treaty would have been commenced with buenos ayres had it not been prevented by the indisposition and lamented decease of rodney our minister there and to whose memory the most respectful attention has been shewn by the government of that republic an advantageous alteration in our treaty with tunis has been obtained by our consular agent residing there the official document of which when received will be laid before the senate the attention of the government has been drawn with great solicitude to other subjects and particularly to that relating to a state of maritime war involving the relative rights of neutral and belligerent in such wars most of the difficulties which we have experienced and of the losses which we have sustained since the establishment of our independence have proceeded from the unsettled state of those rights and the extent to which the belligerent claim has been carried against the neutral party it is impossible to look back on the occurrences of the late wars in europe and to behold the disregard which was paid to our rights as a neutral power and the waste which was made of our commerce by the parties to those wars by various acts of their respective governments and under the pretext by each that the other had set the example without great mortification and a fixed purpose never to submit to the like in future an attempt to remove those causes of possible variance by friendly negotiation and on just principles which should be applicable to all parties could it was presumed be viewed by none other than as a proof of an earnest desire to preserve those relations with every power in the late war between france and spain a crisis occurred in which it seemed probable that all controvertible principles involved in such wars might be brought into discussion and settled to the satisfaction of all parties propositions having this object in view have been made to the governments of great britain france russia and of other powers which have been received in a friendly manner by all but as yet no treaty has been formed with either for its accomplishment the policy will it is presumed be persevered in and in the hope that it may be successful it will always be recollected that with one of the parties to those wars and from whom we received those injuries we sought redress by war from the other by whose then reigning government our vessels were seized in port as well as at sea and their cargoes confiscated indemnity has been expected but has not yet been rendered it was under the influence of the latter that our vessels were likewise seized by the governments of spain holland denmark sweden and naples and from whom indemnity has been claimed and is still expected with the exception of spain by whom it has been rendered with both parties we had abundant because of war but we had no alternative but to resist that which was most powerful at sea and pressed us nearest at home with this all differences were settled by a treaty founded on conditions fair and honorable to both and which has been so far executed with perfect good faith it has been earnestly hoped that the other would of its own accord and from a sentiment of justice and conciliation make to our citizens the indemnity to which they are entitled and thereby remove from our relations any just because of discontent on our side it is estimated that the receipts into the treasury during the current year exclusive of loans will exceed which with the sum remaining in the treasury at the end of the last year amounting to will after discharging the current disbursements of the year the interest on the public debt and upward of of the principal leave a balance of more than 3m in the treasury on the first day of january next a larger amount of the debt contracted during the late war bearing an interest of 6 becoming redeemable in the course of the ensuing year than could be discharged by the ordinary revenue the act of the 26th of may authorized a loan of 5m at to meet the same by this arrangement an annual saving will accrue to the public of under the act of the 24th of may last a loan of 5m was authorized in order to meet the awards under the florida treaty which was negotiated at par with the bank of the united states at the limit of interest fixed by the act by this provision the claims of our citizens who had sustained so great a loss by spoliations and from whom indemnity had been so long withheld were promptly paid for these advances the public will be amply repaid at no distant day by the sale of the lands in florida of the great advantages resulting from the acquisition of the territory in other respects too high an estimate can not be formed it is estimated that the receipts into the treasury during the year 1825 will be sufficient to meet the disbursements of the year including the sum of 10m which is annually appropriated by the act of constituting the sinking fund to the payment of the principal and interest of the public debt the whole amount of the public debt on the first of january next may be estimated at 86m inclusive of of the loan authorized by the act of the 26th of may last in this estimate is included a stock of 7m issued for the purchase of that amount of the capital stock of the bank of the united states and which as the stock of the bank still held by the government will at least be fully equal to its reimbursement ought not to be considered as constituting a part of the public debt estimating then the whole amount of the public debt at 79m and regarding the annual receipts and expenditures of the government a hope may be entertained that should no unexpected event occur the whole of the public debt may be discharged in the course of 10 years and the government be left at liberty thereafter to apply such portion of the revenue as may not be necessary for current expenses to such other objects as may be most conducive to the public security and welfare that the sums applicable to these objects will be very considerable may be fairly concluded when it is recollected that a large amount of the public revenue has been applied since the late war on many of these objects the expense will annually be diminished and cease at no distant period on most of them on the the public debt amounted to and notwithstanding the large sums which have been applied to these objects it has been reduced since that period the last portion of the public debt will be redeemable on and while there is the best reason to believe that the resources of the government will be continually adequate to such portions of it as may become due in the interval it is recommended to congress to seize every opportunity which may present itself to reduce the rate of interest on every part thereof the high state of the public credit and the great abundance of money are at this time very favorable to such a result it must be very gratifying to our fellow citizens to witness this flourishing state of the public finances when it is recollected that no burthen whatever has been imposed upon them the military establishment in all its branches in the performance of the various duties assigned to each justifies the favorable view which was presented of the efficiency of its organization at the last session all the appropriations have been regularly applied to the objects intended by congress and so far as the disbursements have been made the accounts have been rendered and settled without loss to the public the condition of the army itself as relates to the officers and men in science and discipline is highly respectable the military academy on which the army essentially rests and to which it is much indebted for this state of improvement has attained in comparison with any other institution of a like kind a high degree of perfection experience however has shewn that the dispersed condition of the corps of artillery is unfavorable to the discipline of that important branch of the military establishment to remedy this inconvenience eleven companies have been assembled at the fortification erected at old point comfort as a school for artillery instruction with intention as they shall be perfected in the various duties of that service to order them to other posts and to supply their places with other companies for instruction in like manner in this mode a complete knowledge of the science and duties of this arm will be extended throughout the whole corps of artillery but to carry this object fully into effect will require the aid of congress to obtain which the subject is now submitted to your consideration of the progress which has been made in the construction of fortifications for the permanent defense of our maritime frontier according to the plan decided on and to the extent of the existing appropriations the report of the secretary of war which is herewith communicated will give a detailed account their final completion can not fail to give great additional security to that frontier and to diminish proportionably the expense of defending it in the event of war the provisions in several acts of congress of the last session for the improvement of the navigation of the mississippi and the ohio of the harbor of on lake erie and the repair of the plymouth beach are in a course of regular execution and there is reason to believe that the appropriation in each instance will be adequate to the object to carry these improvements fully into effect the superintendence of them has been assigned to officers of the corps of engineers under the act of 30th april last authorizing the president to because a survey to be made with the necessary plans and estimates of such roads and canals as he might deem of national importance in a commercial or military point of view or for the transportation of the mail a board has been instituted consisting of two distinguished officers of the corps of engineers and a distinguished civil engineer with assistants who have been actively employed in carrying into effect the object of the act they have carefully examined the route between the potomac and the ohio rivers between the latter and lake erie between the alleghany and the susquehannah and the routes between the delaware and the raritan barnstable and buzzards bay and between boston harbor and narraganset bay such portion of the corps of topographical engineers as could be spared from the survey of the coast has been employed in surveying the very important route between the potomac and the ohio considerable progress has been made in it but the survey can not be completed until the next season it is gratifying to add from the view already taken that there is good because to believe that this great national object may be fully accomplished it is contemplated to commence early in the next season the execution of the other branch of the act that which relates to roads and with the survey of a route from this city through the southern states to new orleans the importance of which can not be too highly estimated all the officers of both the corps of engineers who could be spared from other services have been employed in exploring and surveying the routes for canals to digest a plan for both objects for the great purposes specified will require a thorough knowledge of every part of our union and of the relation of each part to the others and of all to the seat of the general government for such a digest it will be necessary that the information be full minute and precise with a view to these important objects i submit to the consideration of the congress the propriety of enlarging both the corps of engineers the military and topographical it need scarcely be remarked that the more extensively these corps are engaged in the improvement of their country in the execution of the powers of congress and in aid of the states in such improvements as lie beyond that limit when such aid is desired the happier the effect will be in many views of which the subject is perceptible by profiting of their science the works will always be well executed and by giving to the officers such employment our union will derive all the advantage in peace as well as in war from their talents and services which they can afford in this mode also the military will be incorporated with the civil and unfounded and injurious distinctions and prejudices of every kind be done away to the corps themselves this service can not fail to be equally useful since by the knowledge they would thus acquire they would be eminently better qualified in the event of war for the great purposes for which they were instituted our relations with the indian tribes within our limits have not been materially changed during the year the hostile disposition evinced by certain tribes on the missouri during the last year still continues and has extended in some degree to those on the upper mississippi and the upper lakes several parties of our citizens have been plundered and murdered by those tribes in order to establish relations of friendship with them congress at the last session made an appropriation for treaties with them and for the employment of a suitable military escort to accompany and attend the commissioners at the places appointed for the negotiations this object has not been effected the season was too far advanced when the appropriation was made and the distance too great to permit it but measures have been taken and all the preparations will be completed to accomplish it at an early period in the next season believing that the hostility of the tribes particularly on the upper mississippi and the lakes is in no small degree owing to the wars which are carried on between the tribes residing in that quarter measures have been taken to bring about a general peace among them which if successful will not only tend to the security of our citizens but be of great advantage to the indians themselves with the exception of the tribes referred to our relations with all the others are on the same friendly footing and it affords me great satisfaction to add that they are making steady advances in civilization and the improvement of their condition many of the tribes have already made great progress in the arts of civilized life this desirable result has been brought about by the humane and persevering policy of the government and particularly by means of the appropriation for the civilization of the indians there have been established under the provisions of this act 32 schools containing 916 scholars who are well instructed in several branches of literature and likewise in agriculture and the ordinary arts of life under the appropriation to authorize treaties with the creeks and quaupaw indians commissioners have been appointed and negotiations are now pending but the result is not yet known for more full information respecting the principle which has been adopted for carrying into effect the act of congress authorizing surveys with plans and estimates for canals and roads and on every other branch of duty incident to the department of war i refer you to the report of the secretary the squadron in the mediterranean has been maintained in the extent which was proposed in the report of the secretary of the navy of the last year and has afforded to our commerce the necessary protection in that sea apprehending however that the unfriendly relations which have existed between algiers and some of the powers of europe might be extended to us it has been thought expedient to augment the force there and in consequence the north carolina a ship of the line has been prepared and will sail in a few days to join it the force employed in the gulf of mexico and in the neighboring seas for the suppression of piracy has likewise been preserved essentially in the state in which it was during the last year a persevering effort has been made for the accomplishment of that object and much protection has thereby been afforded to our commerce but still the practice is far from being suppressed from every view which has been taken of the subject it is thought that it will be necessary rather to augment than to diminish our force in that quarter there is reason to believe that the piracies now complained of are committed by bands of robbers who inhabit the land and who by preserving good intelligence with the towns and seizing favorable opportunities rush forth and fall on unprotected merchant vessels of which they make an easy prey the pillage thus taken they carry to their lurking places and dispose of afterwards at prices tending to seduce the neighboring population this combination is understood to be of great extent and is the more to be deprecated because the crime of piracy is often attended with the murder of the crews these robbers knowing if any survived their lurking places would be exposed and they be caught and punished that this atrocious practice should be carried to such extent is because of equal surprise and regret it is presumed that it must be attributed to the relaxed and feeble state of the local governments since it is not doubted from the high character of the governor of cuba who is well known and much respected here that if he had the power he would promptly suppress it whether those robbers should be pursued on the land the local authorities be made responsible for these atrocities or any other measure be resorted to to suppress them is submitted to the consideration of congress in execution of the laws for the suppression of the slave trade a vessel has been occasionally sent from that squadron to the coast of africa with orders to return thence by the usual track of the slave ships and to seize any of our vessels which might be engaged in that trade none have been found and it is believed that none are thus employed it is well known however that the trade still exists under other flags the health of our squadron while at thompsons island has been much better during the present than it was the last season some improvements have been made and others are contemplated there which it is believed will have a very salutary effect on the pacific our commerce has much increased and on that coast as well as on that sea the united states have many important interests which require attention and protection it is thought that all the considerations which suggested the expediency of placing a squadron on that sea operate with augmented force for maintaining it there at least in equal extent for detailed information respecting the state of our maritime force on each sea the improvement necessary to be made on either in the organization of the naval establishment generally and of the laws for its better government i refer you to the report of the secretary of the navy which is herewith communicated the revenue of the post office department has received a considerable augmentation in the present year the current receipts will exceed the expenditures although the transportation of the mail within the year has been much increased a report of the postmaster general which is transmitted will furnish in detail the necessary information respecting the administration and present state of this department in conformity with a resolution of congress of the last session an invitation was given to general lafayette to visit the united states with an assurance that a ship of war should attend at any port of france which he might designate to receive and convey him across the atlantic whenever it might be convenient for him to sail he declined the offer of the public ship from motives of delicacy but assured me that he had long intended and would certainly visit our union in the course of the present year in august last he arrived at new york where he was received with the warmth of affection and gratitude to which his very important and disinterested services and sacrifices in our revolutionary struggle so eminently entitled him a corresponding sentiment has since been manifested in his favor throughout every portion of our union and affectionate invitations have been given him to extend his visits to them to these he has yielded all the accommodation in his power at every designated point of rendezvous the whole population of the neighboring country has been assembled to greet him among whom it has excited in a peculiar manner the sensibility of all to behold the surviving members of our revolutionary contest civil and military who had shared with him in the toils and dangers of the war many of them in a decrepit state a more interesting spectacle it is believed was never witnessed because none could be founded on purer principles none proceed from higher or more disinterested motives that the feelings of those who had fought and bled with him in a common because should have been much excited was natural there are however circumstances attending these interviews which pervaded the whole community and touched the breasts of every age even the youngest among us there was not an individual present who had not some relative who had not partaken in those scenes nor an infant who had not heard the relation of them but the circumstance which was most sensibly felt and which his presence brought forcibly to the recollection of all was the great because in which we were engaged and the blessings which we have derived from our success in it the struggle was for independence and liberty public and personal and in this we succeeded the meeting with one who had borne so distinguished a part in that great struggle and from such lofty and disinterested motives could not fail to affect profoundly every individual and of every age it is natural that we should all take a deep interest in his future welfare as we do his high claims on our union are felt and the sentiment universal that they should be met in a generous spirit under these impressions i invite your attention to the subject with a view that regarding his very important services losses and sacrifices a provision may be made and tendered to him which shall correspond with the sentiments and be worthy the character of the american people in turning our attention to the condition of the civilized world in which the united states have always taken a deep interest it is gratifying to see how large a portion of it is blessed with peace the only wars which now exist within that limit are those between turkey and greece in europe and between spain and the new governments our neighbors in this hemisphere in both these wars the because of independence of liberty and humanity continues to prevail the success of greece when the relative population of the contending parties is considered commands our admiration and applause and that it has had a similar effect with the neighboring powers is obvious the feeling of the whole civilized world is excited in a high degree in their favor may we not hope that these sentiments winning on the hearts of their respective governments may lead to a more decisive result that they may produce an accord among them to replace greece on the ground which she formerly held and to which her heroic exertions at this day so eminently entitle her with respect to the contest to which our neighbors are a party it is evident that spain as a power is scarcely felt in it these new states had completely achieved their independence before it was acknowledged by the united states and they have since maintained it with little foreign pressure the disturbances which have appeared in certain portions of that vast territory have proceeded from internal causes which had their origin in their former governments and have not yet been thoroughly removed it is manifest that these causes are daily losing their effect and that these new states are settling down under governments elective and representative in every branch similar to our own in this course we ardently wish them to persevere under a firm conviction that it will promote their happiness in this their career however we have not interfered believing that every people have a right to institute for themselves the government which in their judgment may suit them best our example is before them of the good effect of which being our neighbors they are competent judges and to their judgment we leave it in the expectation that other powers will pursue the same policy the deep interest which we take in their independence which we have acknowledged and in their enjoyment of all the rights incident thereto especially in the very important one of instituting their own governments has been declared and is known to the world separated as we are from europe by the great atlantic ocean we can have no concern in the wars of the european governments nor in the causes which produce them the balance of power between them into whichever scale it may turn in its various vibrations can not affect us it is the interest of the united states to preserve the most friendly relations with every power and on conditions fair equal and applicable to all but in regard to our neighbors our situation is different it is impossible for the european governments to interfere in their concerns especially in those alluded to which are vital without affecting us indeed the motive which might induce such interference in the present state of the war between the parties if a war it may be called would appear to be equally applicable to us it is gratifying to know that some of the powers with whom we enjoy a very friendly intercourse and to whom these views have been communicated have appeared to acquiesce in them the augmentation of our population with the expansion of our union and increased number of states have produced effects in certain branches of our system which merit the attention of congress some of our arrangements and particularly the judiciary establishment were made with a view to the original 13 states only since then the united states have acquired a vast extent of territory eleven new states have been admitted into the union and territories have been laid off for three others which will likewise be admitted at no distant day an organization of the supreme court which assigns the judges any portion of the duties which belong to the inferior requiring their passage over so vast a space under any distribution of the states that may now be made if not impracticable in the execution must render it impossible for them to discharge the duties of either branch with advantage to the union the duties of the supreme court would be of great importance if its decisions were confined to the ordinary limits of other tribunals but when it is considered that this court decides and in the last resort on all the great questions which arise under our constitution involving those between the united states individually between the states and the united states and between the latter and foreign powers too high an estimate of their importance can not be formed the great interests of the nation seem to require that the judges of the supreme court should be exempted from every other duty than those which are incident to that high trust the organization of the inferior courts would of course be adapted to circumstances it is presumed that such an one might be formed as would secure an able and faithful discharge of their duties and without any material augmentation of expense the condition of the aborigines within our limits and especially those who are within the limits of any of the states merits likewise particular attention experience has shown that unless the tribes be civilized they can never be incorporated into our system in any form whatever it has likewise shown that in the regular augmentation of our population with the extension of our settlements their situation will become deplorable if their extinction is not menaced some plan which will rescue them from such calamities is due to their rights to the rights of humanity and to the honor of the nation their civilization is indispensable to their safety and this can be accomplished only by degrees the process must commence with the infant state through whom some effect may be wrought on the parental difficulties of the most serious character present themselves to the attainment of this very desirable result on the territory on which they now reside to remove them from it by force even with a view to their own security and happiness would be revolting to humanity and utterly unjustifiable between the limits of our present states and territories and the rocky mountains and mexico there is a vast territory to which they might be invited with inducements which might be successful it is thought if that territory should be divided into districts by previous agreement with the tribes now residing there and civil governments be established in each with schools for every branch of instruction in literature and the arts of civilized life that all the tribes now within our limits might gradually be drawn there the execution of this plan would necessarily be attended with expense and that not inconsiderable but it is doubted whether any other can be devised which would be less liable to that objection or more likely to succeed in looking to the interests which the united states have on the pacific ocean and on the western coast of this continent the propriety of establishing a military post at the mouth of the columbia river or at some other point in that quarter within our acknowledged limits is submitted to the consideration of congress our commerce and fisheries on that sea and along the coast have much increased and are increasing it is thought that a military post to which our ships of war might resort would afford protection to every interest and have a tendency to conciliate the tribes to the north west with whom our trade is extensive it is thought also that by the establishment of such a post the intercourse between our western states and territories and the pacific and our trade with the tribes residing in the interior on each side of the rocky mountains would be essentially promoted to carry this object into effect the appropriation of an adequate sum to authorize the employment of a frigate with an officer of the corps of engineers to explore the mouth of the columbia river and the coast contiguous thereto to enable the executive to make such establishment at the most suitable point is recommended to congress it is thought that attention is also due to the improvement of this city the communication between the public buildings and in various other parts and the grounds around those buildings require it it is presumed also that the completion of the canal from the tiber to the eastern branch would have a very salutary effect great exertions have been made and expenses incurred by the citizens in improvements of various kinds but those which are suggested belong exclusively to the government or are of a nature to require expenditures beyond their resources the public lots which are still for sale would it is not doubted be more than adequate for these purposes from the view above presented it is manifest that the situation of the united states is in the highest degree prosperous and happy there is no object which as a people we can desire which we do not possess or which is not within our reach blessed with governments the happiest which the world ever knew with no distinct orders in society or divided interests in any portion of the vast territory over which their dominion extends we have every motive to cling together which can animate a virtuous and enlightened people the great object is to preserve these blessings and to hand them down to the latest posterity our experience ought to satisfy us that our progress under the most correct and provident policy will not be exempt from danger our institutions form an important epoch in the history of the civilized world on their preservation and in their utmost purity everything will depend extending as our interests do to every part of the inhabited globe and to every sea to which our citizens are carried by their industry and enterprise to which they are invited by the wants of others and have a right to go we must either protect them in the enjoyment of their rights or abandon them in certain events to waste and desolation our attitude is highly interesting as relates to other powers and particularly to our southern neighbors we have duties to perform wrt all to which we must be faithful to every kind of danger we should pay the most vigilant and unceasing attention remove the because where it may be practicable and be prepared to meet it when inevitable against foreign danger the policy of the government seems to be already settled the events of the late war admonished us to make our maritime frontier impregnable by a chain of fortifications and to give efficient protection to our commerce by augmenting our navy to a certain extent which has been steadily pursued and which it is incumbent upon us to complete as soon as circumstances will permit in the event of war it is on the maritime frontier that we shall be assailed it is in that quarter therefore that we should be prepared to meet the attack it is there that our whole force will be called into action to prevent the destruction of our towns and the desolation and pillage of the interior to give full effect to this policy great improvements will be indispensable access to those works by every practicable communication should be made easy and in every direction the intercourse between every part of our union should also be promoted and facilitated by the exercise of those powers which may comport with a faithful regard to the great principles of our constitution with respect to internal causes those great principles point out with equal certainty the policy to be pursued resting on the people as our governments do state and national with powers it is of the highest importance that they severally keep within the limits prescribed to them fulfilling that sacred duty it is of equal importance that the movement between them be harmonious and in case of any disagreement should any such occur a calm appeal be made to the people and that their voice be heard and promptly obeyed both governments being instituted for the common good we can not fail to prosper while those who made them are attentive to the conduct of their representatives and control their measures in the pursuit of these great objects let a generous spirit and national views and feelings be indulged and let every part recollect that by cherishing that spirit and improving the condition of the others in what relates to their welfare the general interest will not only be promoted but the local advantage be reciprocated by all i can not conclude this communication the last of the kind which i shall have to make without recollecting with great sensibility and heart felt gratitude the many instances of the public confidence and the generous support which i have received from my fellow citizens in the various trusts with which i have been honored having commenced my service in early youth and continued it since with few and short intervals i have witnessed the great difficulties to which our union has been surmounted from the present prosperous and happy state i derive a gratification which i can not express that these blessings may be preserved and perpetuated will be the object of my fervent and unceasing prayers to the supreme ruler of the universe
view present affairs foreign domestic realizes sanguine anticipations entertained public prosperity look whole growth nation continues rapid beyond example states compose gratifying spectacle exhibited expansion vast territory within limits great without indicating decline sections emigration conspicuous daily gained strength native population every quarter population devoted happy system government cherishing bond union internal affection experience already shewn difference climate industry proceeding inseparable vast domains systems might repulsive tendency fail produce us wise regulations opposite effect one portion wants may supply sensibly felt parts distant forming thereby domestic market active intercourse extremes throughout every portion union thus happy distribution power national state governments governments rest exclusively sovereignty people fully adequate great purposes respectively instituted causes might otherwise lead dismemberment operate powerfully draw us closer together every circumstance correct view actual state union must equally gratifying constituents blessings owe almighty god derive profound reverence grateful unceasing acknowledgments adverting relations foreign powers always object highest importance remark subjects brought discussion present administration satisfactorily terminated others suspended resumed hereafter circumstances favorable success others still negotiation hope may adjusted mutual accommodation interests satisfaction respective parties invariable object government cherish friendly relations every power principles conditions might make permanent systematic effort made place commerce power footing perfect reciprocity settle spirit candor liberality existing differences anticipate remove far might practicable causes future variance stipulated 7th article convention navigation commerce concluded united states france said convention continue force two years first october year indefinite term afterwards unless one parties declare intention renounce event cease operate end 6 months declaration intention announced convention found advantageous parties since remained still remains force time convention concluded many interesting subjects left unsettled particularly claim indemnity spoliations committed commerce late wars interests claims contemplation parties make provision subsequent day comprehensive definitive treaty object duly attended since executive yet accomplished hoped favorable opportunity present opening negotiation may embrace arrange existing differences every concern common interest upon accession present king france event occurred since close last session congress great britain commercial intercourse rests footing last session convention 1815 commerce united states british dominions europe east indies arranged principle reciprocity convention confirmed continued force slight exceptions subsequent treaty term 10 years date latter trade british colonies west indies yet arranged treaty otherwise satisfaction approach result made legislative acts whereby many serious impediments raised parties defense respective claims removed earnest desire exists manifested part government place commerce colonies likewise footing reciprocal advantage hoped british government seeing justice proposal importance colonies ere long accede commissioners appointed adjustment boundary territories united states great britain specified 5th article treaty ghent disagreed decision governments agreed establish boundary amicable negotiation hoped may satisfactorily adjusted mode boundary specified 6th article established decision commissioners progress made provided 7th according report recently received good presume settled course ensuing year serious regret arrangement yet finally concluded two governments secure joint cooperation suppression slave trade object british government early stages negotiation adopt plan suppression include concession mutual right search ships war party vessels suspected offenders objected government principle right search right war belligerent toward neutral power might ill effect extend treaty offense made comparatively mild time peace anxious however suppression trade thought advisable compliance resolution house representatives founded act congress propose british government expedient free objection effectual object making piratical mode enormity crime would place offenders protection government involve question search question parties touching respective rights believed also would completely suppress trade vessels parties respective citizens subjects powers hoped odium would thereby attached would produce corresponding arrangement means thereof entire extirpation forever convention effect concluded signed london plenipotentiaries duly authorized governments ratification certain obstacles arisen yet entirely removed difference parties still remaining reduced point sufficient magnitude presumed permitted defeat object near heart nations desirable friends humanity throughout world objections however principle recommended house representatives least consequences inseparable understood apply law raised may deserve reconsideration whole subject thought proper suspend conclusion new convention definitive sentiments congress may ascertained documents relating negotiation intent submitted consideration commerce sweden placed footing perfect reciprocity treaty russia netherlands prussia free hanseatic cities dukedom oldenburg sardinia internal regulations side founded mutual agreement respective governments principles upon commercial policy united states founded traced early period essentially connected upon independence declared owe origin enlightened men took lead affairs important epoch developed first treaty commerce france formal commission instituted immediately conclusion revolutionary struggle purpose negotiating treaties commerce every european power first treaty united states prussia negotiated commission affords signal illustration principles act congress adopted immediately return general peace new overture foreign nations establish commercial relations basis free equal reciprocity principle pervaded acts congress negotiations executive subject convention settlement important questions relation north west coast continent adjoining seas concluded signed petersburg 5th day april last minister plenipotentiary united states plenipotentiaries imperial government russia immediately laid senate exercise constitutional authority body reference ratification proper add manner negotiation invited conducted part emperor satisfactory great extraordinary changes happened governments spain portugal within last two years without seriously affecting friendly relations maintained powers united states obstacles adjustment particular subjects discussion arisen resolution senate adopted last session called information effect produced upon relations spain recognition part united states independent south american governments papers containing information communicated congress charge received independent government brazil country heretofore colonial possession portugal years since proclaimed sovereign portugal independent kingdom since return lisbon revolution brazil established new government imperial title head placed prince regency vested king time departure reason expect amicable negotiation independence brazil ere long recognized portugal remaining powers europe coast barbary new south american states relations friendly character ministers plenipotentiary residing republics colombia chile received ministers rank columbia guatemala buenos ayres mexico commercial relations states mutually beneficial increasing republic colombia treaty commerce formed copy received original daily expected negotiation like treaty would commenced buenos ayres prevented indisposition lamented decease rodney minister whose memory respectful attention shewn government republic advantageous alteration treaty tunis obtained consular agent residing official document received laid senate attention government drawn great solicitude subjects particularly relating state maritime war involving relative rights neutral belligerent wars difficulties experienced losses sustained since establishment independence proceeded unsettled state rights extent belligerent claim carried neutral party impossible look back occurrences late wars europe behold disregard paid rights neutral power waste made commerce parties wars various acts respective governments pretext set example without great mortification fixed purpose never submit like future attempt remove causes possible variance friendly negotiation principles applicable parties could presumed viewed none proof earnest desire preserve relations every power late war france spain crisis occurred seemed probable controvertible principles involved wars might brought discussion settled satisfaction parties propositions object view made governments great britain france russia powers received friendly manner yet treaty formed either accomplishment policy presumed persevered hope may successful always recollected one parties wars received injuries sought redress war whose reigning government vessels seized port well sea cargoes confiscated indemnity expected yet rendered influence latter vessels likewise seized governments spain holland denmark sweden naples indemnity claimed still expected exception spain rendered parties abundant war alternative resist powerful sea pressed us nearest home differences settled treaty founded conditions fair honorable far executed perfect good faith earnestly hoped would accord sentiment justice conciliation make citizens indemnity entitled thereby remove relations discontent side estimated receipts treasury current year exclusive loans exceed sum remaining treasury end last year amounting discharging current disbursements year interest public debt upward principal leave balance 3m treasury first day january next larger amount debt contracted late war bearing interest 6 becoming redeemable course ensuing year could discharged ordinary revenue act 26th may authorized loan 5m meet arrangement annual saving accrue public act 24th may last loan 5m authorized order meet awards florida treaty negotiated par bank united states limit interest fixed act provision claims citizens sustained great loss spoliations indemnity long withheld promptly paid advances public amply repaid distant day sale lands florida great advantages resulting acquisition territory respects high estimate formed estimated receipts treasury year 1825 sufficient meet disbursements year including sum 10m annually appropriated act constituting sinking fund payment principal interest public debt whole amount public debt first january next may estimated 86m inclusive loan authorized act 26th may last estimate included stock 7m issued purchase amount capital stock bank united states stock bank still held government least fully equal reimbursement ought considered constituting part public debt estimating whole amount public debt 79m regarding annual receipts expenditures government hope may entertained unexpected event occur whole public debt may discharged course 10 years government left liberty thereafter apply portion revenue may necessary current expenses objects may conducive public security welfare sums applicable objects considerable may fairly concluded recollected large amount public revenue applied since late war many objects expense annually diminished cease distant period public debt amounted notwithstanding large sums applied objects reduced since period last portion public debt redeemable best reason believe resources government continually adequate portions may become due interval recommended congress seize every opportunity may present reduce rate interest every part thereof high state public credit great abundance money time favorable result must gratifying fellow citizens witness flourishing state public finances recollected burthen whatever imposed upon military establishment branches performance various duties assigned justifies favorable view presented efficiency organization last session appropriations regularly applied objects intended congress far disbursements made accounts rendered settled without loss public condition army relates officers men science discipline highly respectable military academy army essentially rests much indebted state improvement attained comparison institution like kind high degree perfection experience however shewn dispersed condition corps artillery unfavorable discipline important branch military establishment remedy inconvenience eleven companies assembled fortification erected old point comfort school artillery instruction intention shall perfected various duties service order posts supply places companies instruction like manner mode complete knowledge science duties arm extended throughout whole corps artillery carry object fully effect require aid congress obtain subject submitted consideration progress made construction fortifications permanent defense maritime frontier according plan decided extent existing appropriations report secretary war herewith communicated give detailed account final completion fail give great additional security frontier diminish proportionably expense defending event war provisions several acts congress last session improvement navigation mississippi ohio harbor lake erie repair plymouth beach course regular execution reason believe appropriation instance adequate object carry improvements fully effect superintendence assigned officers corps engineers act 30th april last authorizing president survey made necessary plans estimates roads canals might deem national importance commercial military point view transportation mail board instituted consisting two distinguished officers corps engineers distinguished civil engineer assistants actively employed carrying effect object act carefully examined route potomac ohio rivers latter lake erie alleghany susquehannah routes delaware raritan barnstable buzzards bay boston harbor narraganset bay portion corps topographical engineers could spared survey coast employed surveying important route potomac ohio considerable progress made survey completed next season gratifying add view already taken good believe great national object may fully accomplished contemplated commence early next season execution branch act relates roads survey route city southern states new orleans importance highly estimated officers corps engineers could spared services employed exploring surveying routes canals digest plan objects great purposes specified require thorough knowledge every part union relation part others seat general government digest necessary information full minute precise view important objects submit consideration congress propriety enlarging corps engineers military topographical need scarcely remarked extensively corps engaged improvement country execution powers congress aid states improvements lie beyond limit aid desired happier effect many views subject perceptible profiting science works always well executed giving officers employment union derive advantage peace well war talents services afford mode also military incorporated civil unfounded injurious distinctions prejudices every kind done away corps service fail equally useful since knowledge would thus acquire would eminently better qualified event war great purposes instituted relations indian tribes within limits materially changed year hostile disposition evinced certain tribes missouri last year still continues extended degree upper mississippi upper lakes several parties citizens plundered murdered tribes order establish relations friendship congress last session made appropriation treaties employment suitable military escort accompany attend commissioners places appointed negotiations object effected season far advanced appropriation made distance great permit measures taken preparations completed accomplish early period next season believing hostility tribes particularly upper mississippi lakes small degree owing wars carried tribes residing quarter measures taken bring general peace among successful tend security citizens great advantage indians exception tribes referred relations others friendly footing affords great satisfaction add making steady advances civilization improvement condition many tribes already made great progress arts civilized life desirable result brought humane persevering policy government particularly means appropriation civilization indians established provisions act 32 schools containing 916 scholars well instructed several branches literature likewise agriculture ordinary arts life appropriation authorize treaties creeks quaupaw indians commissioners appointed negotiations pending result yet known full information respecting principle adopted carrying effect act congress authorizing surveys plans estimates canals roads every branch duty incident department war refer report secretary squadron mediterranean maintained extent proposed report secretary navy last year afforded commerce necessary protection sea apprehending however unfriendly relations existed algiers powers europe might extended us thought expedient augment force consequence north carolina ship line prepared sail days join force employed gulf mexico neighboring seas suppression piracy likewise preserved essentially state last year persevering effort made accomplishment object much protection thereby afforded commerce still practice far suppressed every view taken subject thought necessary rather augment diminish force quarter reason believe piracies complained committed bands robbers inhabit land preserving good intelligence towns seizing favorable opportunities rush forth fall unprotected merchant vessels make easy prey pillage thus taken carry lurking places dispose afterwards prices tending seduce neighboring population combination understood great extent deprecated crime piracy often attended murder crews robbers knowing survived lurking places would exposed caught punished atrocious practice carried extent equal surprise regret presumed must attributed relaxed feeble state local governments since doubted high character governor cuba well known much respected power would promptly suppress whether robbers pursued land local authorities made responsible atrocities measure resorted suppress submitted consideration congress execution laws suppression slave trade vessel occasionally sent squadron coast africa orders return thence usual track slave ships seize vessels might engaged trade none found believed none thus employed well known however trade still exists flags health squadron thompsons island much better present last season improvements made others contemplated believed salutary effect pacific commerce much increased coast well sea united states many important interests require attention protection thought considerations suggested expediency placing squadron sea operate augmented force maintaining least equal extent detailed information respecting state maritime force sea improvement necessary made either organization naval establishment generally laws better government refer report secretary navy herewith communicated revenue post office department received considerable augmentation present year current receipts exceed expenditures although transportation mail within year much increased report postmaster general transmitted furnish detail necessary information respecting administration present state department conformity resolution congress last session invitation given general lafayette visit united states assurance ship war attend port france might designate receive convey across atlantic whenever might convenient sail declined offer public ship motives delicacy assured long intended would certainly visit union course present year august last arrived new york received warmth affection gratitude important disinterested services sacrifices revolutionary struggle eminently entitled corresponding sentiment since manifested favor throughout every portion union affectionate invitations given extend visits yielded accommodation power every designated point rendezvous whole population neighboring country assembled greet among excited peculiar manner sensibility behold surviving members revolutionary contest civil military shared toils dangers war many decrepit state interesting spectacle believed never witnessed none could founded purer principles none proceed higher disinterested motives feelings fought bled common much excited natural however circumstances attending interviews pervaded whole community touched breasts every age even youngest among us individual present relative partaken scenes infant heard relation circumstance sensibly felt presence brought forcibly recollection great engaged blessings derived success struggle independence liberty public personal succeeded meeting one borne distinguished part great struggle lofty disinterested motives could fail affect profoundly every individual every age natural take deep interest future welfare high claims union felt sentiment universal met generous spirit impressions invite attention subject view regarding important services losses sacrifices provision may made tendered shall correspond sentiments worthy character american people turning attention condition civilized world united states always taken deep interest gratifying see large portion blessed peace wars exist within limit turkey greece europe spain new governments neighbors hemisphere wars independence liberty humanity continues prevail success greece relative population contending parties considered commands admiration applause similar effect neighboring powers obvious feeling whole civilized world excited high degree favor may hope sentiments winning hearts respective governments may lead decisive result may produce accord among replace greece ground formerly held heroic exertions day eminently entitle respect contest neighbors party evident spain power scarcely felt new states completely achieved independence acknowledged united states since maintained little foreign pressure disturbances appeared certain portions vast territory proceeded internal causes origin former governments yet thoroughly removed manifest causes daily losing effect new states settling governments elective representative every branch similar course ardently wish persevere firm conviction promote happiness career however interfered believing every people right institute government judgment may suit best example good effect neighbors competent judges judgment leave expectation powers pursue policy deep interest take independence acknowledged enjoyment rights incident thereto especially important one instituting governments declared known world separated europe great atlantic ocean concern wars european governments causes produce balance power whichever scale may turn various vibrations affect us interest united states preserve friendly relations every power conditions fair equal applicable regard neighbors situation different impossible european governments interfere concerns especially alluded vital without affecting us indeed motive might induce interference present state war parties war may called would appear equally applicable us gratifying know powers enjoy friendly intercourse views communicated appeared acquiesce augmentation population expansion union increased number states produced effects certain branches system merit attention congress arrangements particularly judiciary establishment made view original 13 states since united states acquired vast extent territory eleven new states admitted union territories laid three others likewise admitted distant day organization supreme court assigns judges portion duties belong inferior requiring passage vast space distribution states may made impracticable execution must render impossible discharge duties either branch advantage union duties supreme court would great importance decisions confined ordinary limits tribunals considered court decides last resort great questions arise constitution involving united states individually states united states latter foreign powers high estimate importance formed great interests nation seem require judges supreme court exempted every duty incident high trust organization inferior courts would course adapted circumstances presumed one might formed would secure able faithful discharge duties without material augmentation expense condition aborigines within limits especially within limits states merits likewise particular attention experience shown unless tribes civilized never incorporated system form whatever likewise shown regular augmentation population extension settlements situation become deplorable extinction menaced plan rescue calamities due rights rights humanity honor nation civilization indispensable safety accomplished degrees process must commence infant state effect may wrought parental difficulties serious character present attainment desirable result territory reside remove force even view security happiness would revolting humanity utterly unjustifiable limits present states territories rocky mountains mexico vast territory might invited inducements might successful thought territory divided districts previous agreement tribes residing civil governments established schools every branch instruction literature arts civilized life tribes within limits might gradually drawn execution plan would necessarily attended expense inconsiderable doubted whether devised would less liable objection likely succeed looking interests united states pacific ocean western coast continent propriety establishing military post mouth columbia river point quarter within acknowledged limits submitted consideration congress commerce fisheries sea along coast much increased increasing thought military post ships war might resort would afford protection every interest tendency conciliate tribes north west trade extensive thought also establishment post intercourse western states territories pacific trade tribes residing interior side rocky mountains would essentially promoted carry object effect appropriation adequate sum authorize employment frigate officer corps engineers explore mouth columbia river coast contiguous thereto enable executive make establishment suitable point recommended congress thought attention also due improvement city communication public buildings various parts grounds around buildings require presumed also completion canal tiber eastern branch would salutary effect great exertions made expenses incurred citizens improvements various kinds suggested belong exclusively government nature require expenditures beyond resources public lots still sale would doubted adequate purposes view presented manifest situation united states highest degree prosperous happy object people desire possess within reach blessed governments happiest world ever knew distinct orders society divided interests portion vast territory dominion extends every motive cling together animate virtuous enlightened people great object preserve blessings hand latest posterity experience ought satisfy us progress correct provident policy exempt danger institutions form important epoch history civilized world preservation utmost purity everything depend extending interests every part inhabited globe every sea citizens carried industry enterprise invited wants others right go must either protect enjoyment rights abandon certain events waste desolation attitude highly interesting relates powers particularly southern neighbors duties perform wrt must faithful every kind danger pay vigilant unceasing attention remove may practicable prepared meet inevitable foreign danger policy government seems already settled events late war admonished us make maritime frontier impregnable chain fortifications give efficient protection commerce augmenting navy certain extent steadily pursued incumbent upon us complete soon circumstances permit event war maritime frontier shall assailed quarter therefore prepared meet attack whole force called action prevent destruction towns desolation pillage interior give full effect policy great improvements indispensable access works every practicable communication made easy every direction intercourse every part union also promoted facilitated exercise powers may comport faithful regard great principles constitution respect internal causes great principles point equal certainty policy pursued resting people governments state national powers highest importance severally keep within limits prescribed fulfilling sacred duty equal importance movement harmonious case disagreement occur calm appeal made people voice heard promptly obeyed governments instituted common good fail prosper made attentive conduct representatives control measures pursuit great objects let generous spirit national views feelings indulged let every part recollect cherishing spirit improving condition others relates welfare general interest promoted local advantage reciprocated conclude communication last kind shall make without recollecting great sensibility heart felt gratitude many instances public confidence generous support received fellow citizens various trusts honored commenced service early youth continued since short intervals witnessed great difficulties union surmounted present prosperous happy state derive gratification express blessings may preserved perpetuated object fervent unceasing prayers supreme ruler universe
view present affair foreign domestic realizes sanguine anticipation entertain public prosperity look whole growth nation continue rapid beyond example state compose gratify spectacle exhibit expansion vast territory within limit great without indicate decline section emigration conspicuous daily gain strength native population every quarter population devote happy system government cherish bond union internal affection experience already shew difference climate industry proceed inseparable vast domain system might repulsive tendency fail produce u wise regulation opposite effect one portion want may supply sensibly felt part distant form thereby domestic market active intercourse extreme throughout every portion union thus happy distribution power national state government government rest exclusively sovereignty people fully adequate great purpose respectively instituted cause might otherwise lead dismemberment operate powerfully draw u close together every circumstance correct view actual state union must equally gratify constituent blessing owe almighty god derive profound reverence grateful unceasing acknowledgment advert relation foreign power always object high importance remark subject bring discussion present administration satisfactorily terminate others suspend resumed hereafter circumstance favorable success others still negotiation hope may adjust mutual accommodation interest satisfaction respective party invariable object government cherish friendly relation every power principle condition might make permanent systematic effort make place commerce power footing perfect reciprocity settle spirit candor liberality exist difference anticipate remove far might practicable cause future variance stipulate 7th article convention navigation commerce conclude united state france say convention continue force two year first october year indefinite term afterwards unless one party declare intention renounce event cease operate end 6 month declaration intention announce convention find advantageous party since remain still remain force time convention conclude many interesting subject leave unsettled particularly claim indemnity spoliation commit commerce late war interest claim contemplation party make provision subsequent day comprehensive definitive treaty object duly attend since executive yet accomplish hop favorable opportunity present open negotiation may embrace arrange exist difference every concern common interest upon accession present king france event occur since close last session congress great britain commercial intercourse rest foot last session convention 1815 commerce united state british dominion europe east indie arrange principle reciprocity convention confirm continued force slight exception subsequent treaty term 10 year date latter trade british colony west indie yet arrange treaty otherwise satisfaction approach result make legislative act whereby many serious impediment raise party defense respective claim remove earnest desire exists manifest part government place commerce colony likewise foot reciprocal advantage hop british government see justice proposal importance colony ere long accede commissioner appoint adjustment boundary territory united state great britain specified 5th article treaty ghent disagree decision government agree establish boundary amicable negotiation hop may satisfactorily adjust mode boundary specify 6th article establish decision commissioner progress make provide 7th accord report recently receive good presume settle course ensue year serious regret arrangement yet finally conclude two government secure joint cooperation suppression slave trade object british government early stage negotiation adopt plan suppression include concession mutual right search ship war party vessel suspect offender object government principle right search right war belligerent toward neutral power might ill effect extend treaty offense make comparatively mild time peace anxious however suppression trade think advisable compliance resolution house representative found act congress propose british government expedient free objection effectual object make piratical mode enormity crime would place offender protection government involve question search question party touch respective right believe also would completely suppress trade vessel party respective citizen subject power hop odium would thereby attach would produce correspond arrangement mean thereof entire extirpation forever convention effect conclude sign london plenipotentiary duly authorized government ratification certain obstacle arise yet entirely remove difference party still remain reduce point sufficient magnitude presume permitted defeat object near heart nation desirable friend humanity throughout world objection however principle recommended house representative least consequence inseparable understood apply law raise may deserve reconsideration whole subject think proper suspend conclusion new convention definitive sentiment congress may ascertain document relate negotiation intent submit consideration commerce sweden place foot perfect reciprocity treaty russia netherlands prussia free hanseatic city dukedom oldenburg sardinia internal regulation side found mutual agreement respective government principles upon commercial policy unite state found trace early period essentially connect upon independence declare owe origin enlighten men take lead affair important epoch develop first treaty commerce france formal commission institute immediately conclusion revolutionary struggle purpose negotiate treaty commerce every european power first treaty united state prussia negotiate commission affords signal illustration principle act congress adopt immediately return general peace new overture foreign nation establish commercial relation basis free equal reciprocity principle pervade act congress negotiation executive subject convention settlement important question relation north west coast continent adjoin sea conclude sign petersburg 5th day april last minister plenipotentiary united state plenipotentiary imperial government russia immediately lay senate exercise constitutional authority body reference ratification proper add manner negotiation invite conducted part emperor satisfactory great extraordinary change happen government spain portugal within last two year without seriously affect friendly relation maintain power united state obstacle adjustment particular subject discussion arisen resolution senate adopt last session call information effect produce upon relation spain recognition part unite state independent south american government paper contain information communicate congress charge receive independent government brazil country heretofore colonial possession portugal year since proclaim sovereign portugal independent kingdom since return lisbon revolution brazil establish new government imperial title head place prince regency vest king time departure reason expect amicable negotiation independence brazil ere long recognize portugal remain power europe coast barbary new south american state relation friendly character minister plenipotentiary reside republic colombia chile receive minister rank columbia guatemala buenos ayres mexico commercial relation state mutually beneficial increase republic colombia treaty commerce form copy receive original daily expect negotiation like treaty would commence buenos ayres prevent indisposition lament decease rodney minister whose memory respectful attention shewn government republic advantageous alteration treaty tunis obtain consular agent reside official document receive laid senate attention government drawn great solicitude subject particularly relate state maritime war involve relative right neutral belligerent war difficulty experience loss sustain since establishment independence proceed unsettled state right extent belligerent claim carry neutral party impossible look back occurrences late war europe behold disregard pay right neutral power waste make commerce party war various act respective government pretext set example without great mortification fix purpose never submit like future attempt remove cause possible variance friendly negotiation principle applicable party could presume view none proof earnest desire preserve relation every power late war france spain crisis occur seem probable controvertible principle involve war might bring discussion settle satisfaction party proposition object view make government great britain france russia power receive friendly manner yet treaty form either accomplishment policy presume persevere hope may successful always recollect one party war received injury seek redress war whose reign government vessel seize port well sea cargo confiscate indemnity expect yet render influence latter vessel likewise seize government spain holland denmark sweden naples indemnity claim still expect exception spain render party abundant war alternative resist powerful sea press u near home difference settle treaty found condition fair honorable far execute perfect good faith earnestly hop would accord sentiment justice conciliation make citizen indemnity entitle thereby remove relation discontent side estimate receipts treasury current year exclusive loan exceed sum remain treasury end last year amount discharge current disbursement year interest public debt upward principal leave balance 3m treasury first day january next large amount debt contract late war bear interest 6 become redeemable course ensue year could discharge ordinary revenue act 26th may authorize loan 5m meet arrangement annual save accrue public act 24th may last loan 5m authorized order meet award florida treaty negotiate par bank united state limit interest fix act provision claim citizen sustain great loss spoliation indemnity long withhold promptly pay advance public amply repaid distant day sale land florida great advantage result acquisition territory respect high estimate form estimate receipt treasury year 1825 sufficient meet disbursement year include sum 10m annually appropriate act constitute sink fund payment principal interest public debt whole amount public debt first january next may estimate 86m inclusive loan authorize act 26th may last estimate include stock 7m issue purchase amount capital stock bank united state stock bank still held government least fully equal reimbursement ought consider constitute part public debt estimate whole amount public debt 79m regard annual receipt expenditures government hope may entertain unexpected event occur whole public debt may discharge course 10 year government leave liberty thereafter apply portion revenue may necessary current expense object may conducive public security welfare sum applicable object considerable may fairly conclude recollect large amount public revenue apply since late war many object expense annually diminish cease distant period public debt amount notwithstanding large sum apply object reduce since period last portion public debt redeemable best reason believe resource government continually adequate portion may become due interval recommend congress seize every opportunity may present reduce rate interest every part thereof high state public credit great abundance money time favorable result must gratify fellow citizen witness flourish state public finance recollect burthen whatever impose upon military establishment branch performance various duty assign justifies favorable view present efficiency organization last session appropriation regularly apply object intend congress far disbursement make account render settle without loss public condition army relate officer men science discipline highly respectable military academy army essentially rest much indebted state improvement attain comparison institution like kind high degree perfection experience however shewn dispersed condition corp artillery unfavorable discipline important branch military establishment remedy inconvenience eleven company assemble fortification erect old point comfort school artillery instruction intention shall perfect various duty service order post supply place company instruction like manner mode complete knowledge science duty arm extend throughout whole corp artillery carry object fully effect require aid congress obtain subject submit consideration progress make construction fortification permanent defense maritime frontier accord plan decide extent existing appropriation report secretary war herewith communicate give detailed account final completion fail give great additional security frontier diminish proportionably expense defend event war provision several act congress last session improvement navigation mississippi ohio harbor lake erie repair plymouth beach course regular execution reason believe appropriation instance adequate object carry improvement fully effect superintendence assign officer corps engineer act 30th april last authorize president survey make necessary plan estimate road canal might deem national importance commercial military point view transportation mail board institute consist two distinguished officer corps engineer distinguish civil engineer assistant actively employ carry effect object act carefully examine route potomac ohio river latter lake erie alleghany susquehannah route delaware raritan barnstable buzzard bay boston harbor narraganset bay portion corp topographical engineer could spar survey coast employ survey important route potomac ohio considerable progress make survey complete next season gratify add view already take good believe great national object may fully accomplish contemplated commence early next season execution branch act relate road survey route city southern state new orleans importance highly estimate officer corps engineer could spar service employ explore survey route canal digest plan object great purpose specify require thorough knowledge every part union relation part others seat general government digest necessary information full minute precise view important object submit consideration congress propriety enlarge corps engineer military topographical need scarcely remark extensively corps engage improvement country execution power congress aid state improvement lie beyond limit aid desire happy effect many view subject perceptible profiting science work always well executed give officer employment union derive advantage peace well war talent service afford mode also military incorporate civil unfounded injurious distinction prejudice every kind do away corps service fail equally useful since knowledge would thus acquire would eminently well qualified event war great purpose institute relation indian tribe within limit materially change year hostile disposition evince certain tribe missouri last year still continue extended degree upper mississippi upper lake several party citizen plunder murder tribe order establish relation friendship congress last session make appropriation treaty employment suitable military escort accompany attend commissioner place appoint negotiation object effect season far advanced appropriation make distance great permit measure take preparation complete accomplish early period next season believe hostility tribe particularly upper mississippi lake small degree owe war carry tribes residing quarter measure take bring general peace among successful tend security citizen great advantage indian exception tribe refer relation others friendly foot affords great satisfaction add make steady advance civilization improvement condition many tribe already make great progress art civilize life desirable result bring humane persevering policy government particularly mean appropriation civilization indian establish provision act 32 school contain 916 scholar well instructed several branch literature likewise agriculture ordinary art life appropriation authorize treaty creeks quaupaw indian commissioner appoint negotiation pending result yet know full information respect principle adopt carry effect act congress authorize survey plan estimate canal roads every branch duty incident department war refer report secretary squadron mediterranean maintain extent propose report secretary navy last year afford commerce necessary protection sea apprehend however unfriendly relation exist algiers power europe might extend u thought expedient augment force consequence north carolina ship line prepare sail day join force employ gulf mexico neighbor seas suppression piracy likewise preserve essentially state last year persevere effort make accomplishment object much protection thereby afford commerce still practice far suppress every view take subject thought necessary rather augment diminish force quarter reason believe piracy complain committed band robber inhabit land preserve good intelligence town seize favorable opportunity rush forth fall unprotected merchant vessel make easy prey pillage thus take carry lurk place dispose afterwards price tend seduce neighbor population combination understand great extent deprecate crime piracy often attend murder crew robber know survive lurking place would expose catch punish atrocious practice carry extent equal surprise regret presume must attribute relaxed feeble state local government since doubt high character governor cuba well know much respect power would promptly suppress whether robber pursue land local authority make responsible atrocity measure resort suppress submit consideration congress execution law suppression slave trade vessel occasionally send squadron coast africa order return thence usual track slave ship seize vessel might engage trade none find believe none thus employ well know however trade still exist flags health squadron thompson island much well present last season improvement make others contemplate believed salutary effect pacific commerce much increase coast well sea united state many important interest require attention protection think consideration suggest expediency place squadron sea operate augment force maintain least equal extent detail information respect state maritime force sea improvement necessary make either organization naval establishment generally law well government refer report secretary navy herewith communicated revenue post office department receive considerable augmentation present year current receipt exceed expenditure although transportation mail within year much increase report postmaster general transmit furnish detail necessary information respect administration present state department conformity resolution congress last session invitation give general lafayette visit united state assurance ship war attend port france might designate receive convey across atlantic whenever might convenient sail decline offer public ship motif delicacy assure long intend would certainly visit union course present year august last arrived new york receive warmth affection gratitude important disinterested service sacrifice revolutionary struggle eminently entitle corresponding sentiment since manifest favor throughout every portion union affectionate invitation give extend visit yield accommodation power every designate point rendezvous whole population neighbor country assemble greet among excited peculiar manner sensibility behold survive member revolutionary contest civil military share toils danger war many decrepit state interesting spectacle believe never witness none could found purer principle none proceed high disinterested motif feeling fought bleed common much excited natural however circumstance attend interview pervade whole community touch breast every age even young among u individual present relative partaken scene infant heard relation circumstance sensibly felt presence brought forcibly recollection great engage blessing derive success struggle independence liberty public personal succeed meet one borne distinguish part great struggle lofty disinterested motif could fail affect profoundly every individual every age natural take deep interest future welfare high claim union felt sentiment universal meet generous spirit impression invite attention subject view regard important service loss sacrifice provision may make tender shall correspond sentiment worthy character american people turn attention condition civilized world united state always take deep interest gratify see large portion bless peace war exist within limit turkey greece europe spain new government neighbor hemisphere war independence liberty humanity continue prevail success greece relative population contend party consider command admiration applause similar effect neighbor power obvious feel whole civilized world excite high degree favor may hope sentiment win heart respective government may lead decisive result may produce accord among replace greece ground formerly hold heroic exertion day eminently entitle respect contest neighbor party evident spain power scarcely felt new state completely achieve independence acknowledge united state since maintain little foreign pressure disturbance appear certain portion vast territory proceed internal cause origin former government yet thoroughly remove manifest cause daily lose effect new state settle government elective representative every branch similar course ardently wish persevere firm conviction promote happiness career however interfere believing every people right institute government judgment may suit best example good effect neighbor competent judge judgment leave expectation power pursue policy deep interest take independence acknowledge enjoyment right incident thereto especially important one instituting government declare known world separate europe great atlantic ocean concern war european government cause produce balance power whichever scale may turn various vibration affect u interest united state preserve friendly relation every power condition fair equal applicable regard neighbor situation different impossible european government interfere concern especially allude vital without affect u indeed motive might induce interference present state war party war may call would appear equally applicable u gratify know power enjoy friendly intercourse view communicate appear acquiesce augmentation population expansion union increase number state produce effect certain branch system merit attention congress arrangement particularly judiciary establishment make view original 13 state since united state acquire vast extent territory eleven new state admit union territory lay three others likewise admit distant day organization supreme court assigns judge portion duty belong inferior require passage vast space distribution state may make impracticable execution must render impossible discharge duty either branch advantage union duty supreme court would great importance decision confine ordinary limit tribunal consider court decides last resort great question arise constitution involve united state individually state united state latter foreign power high estimate importance form great interest nation seem require judge supreme court exempt every duty incident high trust organization inferior court would course adapt circumstance presume one might form would secure able faithful discharge duty without material augmentation expense condition aborigine within limit especially within limit state merit likewise particular attention experience show unless tribe civilize never incorporate system form whatever likewise show regular augmentation population extension settlement situation become deplorable extinction menace plan rescue calamity due right right humanity honor nation civilization indispensable safety accomplish degree process must commence infant state effect may work parental difficulty serious character present attainment desirable result territory reside remove force even view security happiness would revolt humanity utterly unjustifiable limit present state territory rocky mountain mexico vast territory might invite inducement might successful thought territory divide district previous agreement tribe reside civil government establish school every branch instruction literature art civilize life tribe within limit might gradually draw execution plan would necessarily attend expense inconsiderable doubt whether devise would less liable objection likely succeed look interest united state pacific ocean western coast continent propriety establish military post mouth columbia river point quarter within acknowledge limit submit consideration congress commerce fishery sea along coast much increase increase thought military post ship war might resort would afford protection every interest tendency conciliate tribe north west trade extensive thought also establishment post intercourse western state territory pacific trade tribe reside interior side rocky mountain would essentially promote carry object effect appropriation adequate sum authorize employment frigate officer corp engineer explore mouth columbia river coast contiguous thereto enable executive make establishment suitable point recommend congress think attention also due improvement city communication public building various part ground around building require presume also completion canal tiber eastern branch would salutary effect great exertion make expense incurred citizen improvement various kind suggest belong exclusively government nature require expenditures beyond resource public lot still sale would doubt adequate purpose view present manifest situation united state high degree prosperous happy object people desire possess within reach bless government happy world ever know distinct order society divide interest portion vast territory dominion extend every motive cling together animate virtuous enlightened people great object preserve blessing hand late posterity experience ought satisfy u progress correct provident policy exempt danger institution form important epoch history civilize world preservation utmost purity everything depend extend interest every part inhabit globe every sea citizen carry industry enterprise invite want others right go must either protect enjoyment right abandon certain event waste desolation attitude highly interesting relates power particularly southern neighbor duty perform wrt must faithful every kind danger pay vigilant unceasing attention remove may practicable prepared meet inevitable foreign danger policy government seem already settle event late war admonish u make maritime frontier impregnable chain fortification give efficient protection commerce augment navy certain extent steadily pursue incumbent upon u complete soon circumstance permit event war maritime frontier shall assail quarter therefore prepared meet attack whole force call action prevent destruction town desolation pillage interior give full effect policy great improvement indispensable access work every practicable communication make easy every direction intercourse every part union also promote facilitated exercise power may comport faithful regard great principle constitution respect internal cause great principle point equal certainty policy pursue rest people government state national power high importance severally keep within limit prescribe fulfil sacred duty equal importance movement harmonious case disagreement occur calm appeal make people voice heard promptly obeyed government instituted common good fail prosper make attentive conduct representative control measure pursuit great object let generous spirit national view feeling indulge let every part recollect cherish spirit improve condition others relate welfare general interest promote local advantage reciprocate conclude communication last kind shall make without recollect great sensibility heart felt gratitude many instance public confidence generous support receive fellow citizen various trust honor commenced service early youth continue since short interval witness great difficulty union surmount present prosperous happy state derive gratification express blessing may preserve perpetuated object fervent unceasing prayer supreme ruler universe