With devout gratitude to the bountiful Giver of All Good, I congratulate you that at the beginning of your first regular session you find our country blessed with health and peace and abundant harvests, and with encouraging prospects of an early return of general prosperity. To complete and make permanent the pacification of the country continues to be, and until it is fully accomplished must remain, the most important of all our national interests. The earnest purpose of good citizens generally to unite their efforts in this endeavor is evident. It found decided expression in the resolutions announced in 1876 by the national conventions of the leading political parties of the country. There was a widespread apprehension that the momentous results in our progress as a nation marked by the recent amendments to the Constitution were in imminent jeopardy; that the good understanding which prompted their adoption, in the interest of a loyal devotion to the general welfare, might prove a barren truce, and that the two sections of the country, once engaged in civil strife, might be again almost as widely severed and disunited as they were when arrayed in arms against each other. The course to be pursued, which, in my judgment, seemed wisest in the presence of this emergency, was plainly indicated in my inaugural address. It pointed to the time, which all our people desire to see, when a genuine love of our whole country and of all that concerns its true welfare shall supplant the destructive forces of the mutual animosity of races and of sectional hostility. Opinions have differed widely as to the measures best calculated to secure this great end. This was to be expected. The measures adopted by the Administration have been subjected to severe and varied criticism. Any course whatever which might have been entered upon would certainly have encountered distrust and opposition. These measures were, in my judgment, such as were most in harmony with the Constitution and with the genius of our people, and best adapted, under all the circumstances, to attain the end in view. Beneficent results, already apparent, prove that these endeavors are not to be regarded as a mere experiment, and should sustain and encourage us in our efforts. Already, in the brief period which has elapsed, the immediate effectiveness, no less than the justice, of the course pursued is demonstrated, and I have an abiding faith that time will furnish its ample vindication in the minds of the great majority of my fellow-citizens. The discontinuance of the use of the Army for the purpose of upholding local governments in two States of the Union was no less a constitutional duty and requirement, under the circumstances existing at the time, than it was a much-needed measure for the restoration of local self-government and the promotion of national harmony. The withdrawal of the troops from such employment was effected deliberately, and with solicitous care for the peace and good order of society and the protection of the property and persons and every right of all classes of citizens. The results that have followed are indeed significant and encouraging. All apprehension of danger from remitting those States to local self-government is dispelled, and a most salutary change in the minds of the people has begun and is in progress in every part of that section of the country once the theater of unhappy civil strife, substituting for suspicion, distrust, and aversion, concord, friendship, and patriotic attachment to the Union. No unprejudiced mind will deny that the terrible and often fatal collisions which for several years have been of frequent occurrence and have agitated and alarmed the public mind have almost entirely ceased, and that a spirit of mutual forbearance and hearty national interest has succeeded. There has been a general reestablishment of order and of the orderly administration of justice. Instances of remaining lawlessness have become of rare occurrence; political turmoil and turbulence have disappeared; useful industries have been resumed; public credit in the Southern States has been greatly strengthened, and the encouraging benefits of a revival of commerce between the sections of the country lately embroiled in civil war are fully enjoyed. Such are some of the results already attained, upon which the country is to be congratulated. They are of such importance that we may with confidence patiently await the desired consummation that will surely come with the natural progress of events. It may not be improper here to say that it should be our fixed and unalterable determination to protect by all available and proper means under the Constitution and the laws the lately emancipated race in the enjoyment of their rights and privileges; and I urge upon those to whom heretofore the colored people have sustained the relation of bondmen the wisdom and justice of humane and liberal local legislation with respect to their education and general welfare. A firm adherence to the laws, both national and State, as to the civil and political rights of the colored people, now advanced to full and equal citizenship; the immediate repression and sure punishment by the national and local authorities, within their respective jurisdictions, of every instance of lawlessness and violence toward them, is required for the security alike of both races, and is justly demanded by the public opinion of the country and the age. In this way the restoration of harmony and good will and the complete protection of every citizen in the full enjoyment of every constitutional right will surely be attained. Whatever authority rests with me to this end I shall not hesitate to put forth. Whatever belongs to the power of Congress and the jurisdiction of the courts of the Union, they may confidently be relied upon to provide and perform; and to the legislatures, the courts, and the executive authorities of the several States I earnestly appeal to secure, by adequate, appropriate, and seasonable means, Within their borders, these common and uniform rights of a united people which loves liberty, abhors oppression, and reveres justice. These objects are very dear to my heart. I shall continue most earnestly to strive for their attainment. The cordial cooperation of all classes, of all sections of the country and of both races, is required for this purpose; and with these blessings assured, and not otherwise, we may safely hope to hand down our free institutions of government unimpaired to the generations that will succeed us. Among the other subjects of great and general importance to the people of this country, I can not be mistaken, I think, in regarding as preeminent the policy and measures which are designed to secure the restoration of the currency to that normal and healthful condition in which, by the resumption of specie payments, our internal trade and foreign commerce may be brought into harmony with the system of exchanges which is based upon the precious metals as the intrinsic money of the world. In the public judgment that this end should be sought and compassed as speedily and securely as the resources of the people and the wisdom of their Government can accomplish, there is a much greater degree of unanimity than is found to concur in the specific measures which will bring the country to this desired end or the rapidity of the steps by which it can be safely reached. Upon a most anxious and deliberate examination, which I have felt it my duty to give to the subject, I am but the more confirmed in the opinion which I expressed in accepting the nomination for the Presidency, and again upon my inauguration, that the policy of resumption should be pursued by every suitable means, and that no legislation would be wise that should disparage the importance or retard the attainment of that result. I have no disposition, and certainly no right, to question the sincerity or the intelligence of opposing opinions, and would neither conceal nor undervalue the considerable difficulties, and even occasional distresses, which may attend the progress of the nation toward this primary condition to its general and permanent prosperity. I must, however, adhere to my most earnest conviction that any wavering in purpose or unsteadiness in methods, so far from avoiding or reducing the inconvenience inseparable from the transition from an irredeemable to a redeemable paper currency, would only tend to increased and prolonged disturbance in values, and unless retrieved must end in serious disorder, dishonor, and disaster in the financial affairs of the Government and of the people. The mischiefs which I apprehend and urgently deprecate are confined to no class of the people, indeed, but seem to me most certainly to threaten the industrious masses, whether their occupations are of skilled or common labor. To them, it seems to me, it is of prime importance that their labor should be compensated in money which is itself fixed in exchangeable value by being irrevocably measured by the labor necessary to its production. This permanent quality of the money of the people is sought for, and can only be gained by the resumption of specie payments. The rich, the speculative, the operating, the money-dealing classes may not always feel the mischiefs of, or may find casual profits in, a variable currency, but the misfortunes of such a currency to those who are paid salaries or wages are inevitable and remediless. Closely connected with this general subject of the resumption of specie payments is one of subordinate, but still of grave, importance; I mean the readjustment of our coinage system by the renewal of the silver dollar as an element in our specie currency, endowed by legislation with the quality of legal tender to a greater or less extent. As there is no doubt of the power of Congress under the Constitution "to coin money and regulate the value thereof," and as this power covers the whole range of authority applicable to the metal, the rated value and the legal-tender quality which shall be adopted for the coinage, the considerations which should induce or discourage a particular measure connected with the coinage, belong clearly to the province of legislative discretion and of public expediency. Without intruding upon this province of legislation in the least, I have yet thought the subject of such critical importance, in the actual condition of our affairs, as to present an occasion for the exercise of the duty imposed by the Constitution on the President of recommending to the consideration of Congress "such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient." Holding the opinion, as I do, that neither the interests of the Government nor of the people of the United States would be promoted by disparaging silver as one of the two precious metals which furnish the coinage of the world, and that legislation which looks to maintaining the volume of intrinsic money to as full a measure of both metals as their relative commercial values will permit would be neither unjust nor inexpedient, I must ask your indulgence to a brief and definite statement of certain essential features in any such legislative measure which I feel it my duty to recommend. I do not propose to enter the debate, represented on both sides by such able disputants in Congress and before the people and in the press, as to the extent to which the legislation of any one nation can control this question, even within its own borders, against the unwritten laws of trade or the positive laws of other governments. The wisdom of Congress in shaping any particular law that may be presented for my approval may wholly supersede the necessity of my entering into these considerations, and I willingly avoid either vague or intricate inquiries. It is only certain plain and practical traits of such legislation that I desire to recommend to your attention. In any legislation providing for a silver coinage, regulating its value, and imparting to it the quality of legal tender, it seems to me of great importance that Congress should not lose sight of its action as operating in a twofold capacity and in two distinct directions. If the United States Government were free from a public debt, its legislative dealing with the question of silver coinage would be purely sovereign and governmental, under no restraints but those of constitutional power and the public good as affected by the proposed legislation. But in the actual circumstances of the nation, with a vast public debt distributed very widely among our own citizens and held in great amounts also abroad, the nature of the silver-coinage measure, as affecting this relation of the Government to the holders of the public debt, becomes an element, in any proposed legislation, of the highest concern. The obligation of the public faith transcends all questions of profit or public advantage otherwise. Its unquestionable maintenance is the dictate as well of the highest expediency as of the most necessary duty, and will ever be carefully guarded by Congress and people alike. The public debt of the United States to the amount of $729,000,000 bears interest at the rate of 6 per cent, and $708,000,000 at the rate of 5 per cent, and the only way in which the country can be relieved from the payment of these high rates of interest is by advantageously refunding the indebtedness. Whether the debt is ultimately paid in gold or in silver coin is of but little moment compared with the possible reduction of interest one-third by refunding it at such reduced rate. If the United States had the unquestioned right to pay its bonds in silver coin, the little benefit from that process would be greatly overbalanced by the injurious effect of such payment if made or proposed against the honest convictions of the public creditors. All the bonds that have been issued since February 12, 1873, when gold became the only unlimited legal-tender metallic currency of the country, are justly payable in gold coin or in coin of equal value. During the time of these issues the only dollar that could be or was received by the Government in exchange for bonds was the gold dollar. To require the public creditors to take in repayment any dollar of less commercial value would be regarded by them as a repudiation of the full obligation assumed. The bonds issued prior to 1873 were issued at a time when the gold dollar was the only coin in circulation or contemplated by either the Government or the holders of the bonds as the coin in which they were to be paid. It is far better to pay these bonds in that coin than to seem to take advantage of the unforeseen fall in silver bullion to pay in a new issue of silver coin thus made so much less valuable. The power of the United States to coin money and to regulate the value thereof ought never to be exercised for the purpose of enabling the Government to pay its obligations in a coin of less value than that contemplated by the parties when the bonds were issued. Any attempt to pay the national indebtedness in a coinage of less commercial value than the money of the world would involve a violation of the public faith and work irreparable injury to the public credit. It was the great merit of the act of March, 1869, in strengthening the public credit, that it removed all doubt as to the purpose of the United States to pay their bonded debt in coin. That act was accepted as a pledge of public faith. The Government has derived great benefit from it in the progress thus far made in refunding the public debt at low rates of interest. An adherence to the wise and just policy of an exact observance of the public faith will enable the Government rapidly to reduce the burden of interest on the national debt to an amount exceeding $20,000,000 per annum, and effect an aggregate saving to the United States of more than $300,000,000 before the bonds can be fully paid. In adapting the new silver coinage to the ordinary uses of currency in the everyday transactions of life and prescribing the quality of legal tender to be assigned to it, a consideration of the first importance should be so to adjust the ratio between the silver and the gold coinage, which now constitutes our specie currency, as to accomplish the desired end of maintaining the circulation of the two metallic currencies and keeping up the volume of the two precious metals as our intrinsic money. It is a mixed question, for scientific reasoning and historical experience to determine, how far and by what methods a practical equilibrium can be maintained which will keep both metals in circulation in their appropriate spheres of common use. An absolute equality of commercial value, free from disturbing fluctuations, is hardly attainable, and without it an unlimited legal tender for private transactions assigned to both metals would irresistibly tend to drive out of circulation the clearer coinage and disappoint the principal object proposed by the legislation in view. I apprehend, therefore, that the two conditions of a near approach to equality of commercial value between the gold and silver coinage of the same denomination and of a limitation of the amounts for which the silver coinage is to be a legal tender are essential to maintaining both in circulation. If these conditions can be successfully observed, the issue from the mint of silver dollars would afford material assistance to the community in the transition to redeemable paper money, and would facilitate the resumption of specie payment and its permanent establishment. Without these conditions I fear that only mischief and misfortune would flow from a coinage of silver dollars with the quality of unlimited legal tender, even in private transactions. Any expectation of temporary ease from an issue of silver coinage to pass as a legal tender at a rate materially above its commercial value is, I am persuaded, a delusion. Nor can I think that there is any substantial distinction between an original issue of silver dollars at a nominal value materially above their commercial value and the restoration of the silver dollar at a rate which once was, but has ceased to be, its commercial value. Certainly the issue of our gold coinage, reduced in weight materially below its legal-tender value, would not be any the less a present debasement of the coinage by reason of its equaling, or even exceeding, in weight a gold coinage which at some past time had been commercially equal to the legal-tender value assigned to the new issue. In recommending that the regulation of any silver coinage which may be authorized by Congress should observe these conditions of commercial value and limited legal tender, I am governed by the feeling that every possible increase should be given to the volume of metallic money which can be kept in circulation, and thereby every possible aid afforded to the people in the process of resuming specie payments. It is because of my firm conviction that a disregard of these conditions would frustrate the good results which are desired from the proposed coinage, and embarrass with new elements of confusion and uncertainty the business of the country, that I urge upon your attention these considerations. I respectfully recommend to Congress that in any legislation providing for a silver coinage and imparting to it the quality of legal tender there be impressed upon the measure a firm provision exempting the public debt heretofore issued and now outstanding from payment, either of principal or interest, in any coinage of less commercial value than the present gold coinage of the country. The organization of the civil service of the country has for a number of years attracted more and more of the public attention. So general has become the opinion that the methods of admission to it and the conditions of remaining in it are unsound that both the great political parties have agreed in the most explicit declarations of the necessity of reform and in the most emphatic demands for it. I have fully believed these declarations and demands to be the expression of a sincere conviction of the intelligent masses of the people upon the subject, and that they should be recognized and followed by earnest and prompt action on the part of the legislative and executive departments of the Government, in pursuance of the purpose indicated. Before my accession to office I endeavored to have my own views distinctly understood, and upon my inauguration my accord with the public opinion was stated in terms believed to be plain and unambiguous. My experience in the executive duties has strongly confirmed the belief in the great advantage the country would find in observing strictly the plan of the Constitution, which imposes upon the Executive the sole duty and responsibility of the selection of those Federal officers who by law are appointed, not elected, and which in like manner assigns to the Senate the complete right to advise and consent to or to reject the nominations so made, whilst the House of Representatives stands as the public censor of the performance of official duties, with the prerogative of investigation and prosecution in all cases of dereliction. The blemishes and imperfections in the civil service may, as I think, be traced in most cases to a practical confusion of the duties assigned to the several Departments of the Government. My purpose in this respect has been to return to the system established by the fundamental law, and to do this with the heartiest cooperation and most cordial understanding with the Senate and House of Representatives. The practical difficulties in the selection of numerous officers for posts of widely varying responsibilities and duties are acknowledged to be very great. No system can be expected to secure absolute freedom from mistakes, and the beginning of any attempted change of custom is quite likely to be more embarrassed in this respect than any subsequent period. It is here that the Constitution seems to me to prove its claim to the great wisdom accorded to it. It gives to the Executive the assistance of the knowledge and experience of the Senate, which, when acting upon nominations as to which they may be disinterested and impartial judges, secures as strong a guaranty of freedom from errors of importance as is perhaps possible in human affairs. In addition to this, I recognize the public advantage of making all nominations, as nearly as possible, impersonal, in the sense of being free from mere caprice or favor in the selection; and in those offices in which special training is of greatly increased value I believe such a rule as to the tenure of office should obtain as may induce men of proper qualifications to apply themselves industriously to the task of becoming proficients. Bearing these things in mind, I have endeavored to reduce the number of changes in subordinate places usually made upon the change of the general administration, and shall most heartily cooperate with Congress in the better systematizing of such methods and rules of admission to the public service and of promotion within it as, may promise to be most successful in making thorough competency, efficiency, and character the decisive tests in these matters. I ask the renewed attention of Congress to what has already been done by the Civil Service Commission, appointed, in pursuance of an act of Congress, by my predecessor, to prepare and revise civil-service rules. In regard to much of the departmental service, especially at Washington, it may be difficult to organize a better system than that which has thus been provided, and it is now being used to a considerable extent under my direction. The Commission has still a legal existence, although for several years no appropriation has been made for defraying its expenses. Believing that this Commission has rendered valuable service and will be a most useful agency in improving the administration of the civil service, I respectfully recommend that a suitable appropriation, to be immediately available, be made to enable it to continue its labors. It is my purpose to transmit to Congress as early as practicable a report by the chairman of the Commission, and to ask your attention to such measures on this subject as in my opinion will further promote the improvement of the civil service. 
During the past year the United States have continued to maintain peaceful relations with foreign powers. The outbreak of war between Russia and Turkey, though at one time attended by grave apprehension as to its effect upon other European nations, has had no tendency to disturb the amicable relations existing between the United States and each of the two contending powers. An attitude of just and impartial neutrality has been preserved, and I am gratified to state that in the midst of their hostilities both the Russian and the Turkish Governments have shown an earnest disposition to adhere to the obligations of all treaties with the United States and to give due regard to the rights of American citizens. By the terms of the treaty defining the rights, immunities, and privileges of consuls, between Italy and the United States, ratified in 1868, either Government may, after the lapse of ten years, terminate the existence of the treaty by giving twelve months' notice of its intention. The Government of Italy, availing itself of this faculty, has now given the required notice, and the treaty will accordingly end on the 17th of September, 1878. It is understood, however, that the Italian Government wishes to renew it in its general scope, desiring only certain modifications in some of its articles. In this disposition I concur, and shall hope that no serious obstacles may intervene to prevent or delay the negotiation of a satisfactory treaty. Numerous questions in regard to passports, naturalization, and exemption from military service have continued to arise in cases of emigrants from Germany who have returned to their native country. The provisions of the treaty of February 22, 1868, however, have proved to be so ample and so judicious that the legation of the United States at Berlin has been able to adjust all claims arising under it, not only without detriment to the amicable relations existing between the two Governments, but, it is believed, without injury or injustice to any duly naturalized American citizen. It is desirable that the treaty originally made with the North German Union in 1868 should now be extended so as to apply equally to all the States of the Empire of Germany. The invitation of the Government of France to participate in the Exposition of the Products of Agriculture, Industry, and the Fine Arts to be held at Paris during the coming year was submitted for your consideration at the extra session. It is not doubted that its acceptance by the United States, and a well-selected exhibition of the products of American industry on that occasion, will tend to stimulate international commerce and emigration, as well as to promote the traditional friendship between the two countries. A question arose some time since as to the proper meaning of the extradition articles of the treaty of 1842 between the United States and Great Britain. Both Governments, however, are now in accord in the belief that the question is not one that should be allowed to frustrate the ends of justice or to disturb the friendship between the two nations. No serious difficulty has arisen in accomplishing the extradition of criminals when necessary. It is probable that all points of disagreement will in due time be settled, and, if need be, more explicit declarations be made in a new treaty. The Fishery Commission under Articles XVIII to XXV of the treaty of Washington has concluded its session at Halifax. The result of the deliberations of the commission, as made public by the commissioners, will be communicated to Congress. A treaty for the protection of trade-marks has been negotiated with Great Britain, which has been submitted to the Senate for its consideration. The revolution which recently occurred in Mexico was followed by the accession of the successful party to power and the installation of its chief, General Porfirio Diaz, in the Presidential office. It has been the custom of the United States, when such changes of government have heretofore occurred in Mexico, to recognize and enter into official relations with the de facto government as soon as it should appear to have the approval of the Mexican people and should manifest a disposition to adhere to the obligations of treaties and international friendship. In the present case such official recognition has been deferred by the occurrences on the Rio Grande border, the records of which have been already communicated to each House of Congress in answer to their respective resolutions of inquiry. Assurances have been received that the authorities at the seat of the Mexican Government have both the disposition and the power to prevent and punish such unlawful invasions and depredations. It is earnestly to be hoped that events may prove these assurances to be well rounded. The best interests of both countries require the maintenance of peace upon the border and the development of commerce between the two Republics. It is gratifying to add that this temporary interruption of official relations has not prevented due attention by the representatives of the United States in Mexico to the protection of American citizens, so far as practicable; nor has it interfered with the prompt payment of the amounts due from Mexico to the United States under the treaty of July 4, 1868, and the awards of the joint commission. While I do not anticipate an interruption of friendly relations with Mexico, yet I can not but look with some solicitude upon a continuance of border disorders as exposing the two countries to initiations of popular feeling and mischances of action which are naturally unfavorable to complete amity. Firmly determined that nothing shall be wanting on my part to promote a good understanding between the two nations, I yet must ask the attention of Congress to the actual occurrences on the border, that the lives and property of our citizens may be adequately protected and peace preserved. Another year has passed without bringing to a close the protracted contest between the Spanish Government and the insurrection in the island of Cuba. While the United States have sedulously abstained from any intervention in this contest, it is impossible not to feel that it is attended with incidents affecting the rights and interests of American citizens. Apart from the effect of the hostilities upon trade between the United States and Cuba, their progress is inevitably accompanied by complaints, having more or less foundation, of searches, arrests, embargoes, and oppressive taxes upon the property of American residents, and of unprovoked interference with American vessels and commerce. It is due to the Government of Spain to say that during the past year it has promptly disavowed and offered reparation for any unauthorized acts of unduly zealous subordinates whenever such acts have been brought to its attention. Nevertheless, such occurrences can not but tend to excite feelings of annoyance, suspicion, and resentment. which are greatly to be deprecated, between the respective subjects and citizens of two friendly powers. Much delay (consequent upon accusations of fraud in some of the awards) has occurred in respect to the distribution of the limited amounts received from Venezuela under the treaty of April 25, 1866, applicable to the awards of the joint commission created by that treaty. So long as these matters are pending in Congress the Executive can not assume either to pass upon the questions presented or to distribute the fund received. It is eminently desirable that definite legislative action should be taken, either affirming the awards to be final or providing some method for reexamination of the claims. Our relations with the Republics of Central and South America and with the Empire of Brazil have continued without serious change, further than the temporary interruption of diplomatic intercourse with Venezuela and with Guatemala. Amicable relations have already been fully restored with Venezuela, and it is not doubted that all grounds of misunderstanding with Guatemala will speedily be removed. From all these countries there are favorable indications of a disposition on the part of their Governments and people to reciprocate our efforts in the direction of increased commercial intercourse. The Government of the Samoan Islands has sent an envoy, in the person of its secretary of state, to invite the Government of the United States to recognize and protect their independence, to establish commercial relations with their people, and to assist them in their steps toward regulated and responsible government. The inhabitants of these islands, having made considerable progress in Christian civilization and the development of trade, are doubtful of their ability to maintain peace and independence without the aid of some stronger power. The subject is deemed worthy of respectful attention, and the claims upon our assistance by this distant community will be carefully considered. The long commercial depression in the United States has directed attention to the subject of the possible increase of our foreign trade and the methods for its development, not only with Europe, but with other countries, and especially with the States and sovereignties of the Western Hemisphere. Instructions from the Department of State were issued to the various diplomatic and consular officers of the Government, asking them to devote attention to the question of methods by which trade between the respective countries of their official residence and the United States could be most judiciously fostered. In obedience to these instructions, examinations and reports upon this subject have been made by many of these officers and transmitted to the Department, and the same are submitted to the consideration of Congress. The annual report of the Secretary of the Treasury on the state of the finances presents important questions for the action of Congress, upon some of which I have already remarked. The revenues of the Government during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1877, were $269,000,586.62; the total expenditures for the same period were $238,660,008.93, leaving a surplus revenue of $30,340,577.69. This has substantially supplied the requirements of the sinking fund for that year. The estimated revenues of the current fiscal year are $265,500,000, and the estimated expenditures for the same period are $232,430,643.72. If these estimates prove to be correct, there will be a surplus revenue of $33,069,356.28--an amount nearly sufficient for the sinking fund for that year. The estimated revenues for the next fiscal year are $269,250,000. It appears from the report that during the last fiscal year the revenues of the Government, compared with the previous year, have largely decreased. This decrease, amounting to the sum of $18,481,452.54, was mainly in customs duties, caused partly by a large falling off of the amount of imported dutiable goods and partly by the general fall of prices in the markets of production of such articles as pay ad valorem taxes. While this is felt injuriously in the diminution of the revenue, it has been accompanied with a very large increase of exportations. The total exports during the last fiscal year, including coin, have been $658,637,457, and the imports have been $492,097,540, leaving a balance of trade in favor of the United States amounting to the sum of $166,539,917, the beneficial effects of which extend to all branches of business. The estimated revenue for the next fiscal year will impose upon Congress the duty of strictly limiting appropriations, including the requisite sum for the maintenance of the sinking fund, within the aggregate estimated receipts. While the aggregate of taxes should not be increased, amendments might be made to the revenue laws that would, without diminishing the revenue, relieve the people from unnecessary burdens. A tax on tea and coffee is shown by the experience not only of our own country, but of other countries, to be easily collected, without loss by undervaluation or fraud, and largely borne in the country of production. A tax of 10 cents a pound on tea and 2 cents a pound on coffee would produce a revenue exceeding $12,000,000, and thus enable Congress to repeal a multitude of annoying taxes yielding a revenue not exceeding that sum. The internal-revenue system grew out of the necessities of the war, and most of the legislation imposing taxes upon domestic products under this system has been repealed. By the substitution of a tax on tea and coffee all forms of internal taxation may be repealed, except that on whisky, spirits, tobacco, and beer. Attention is also called to the necessity of enacting more vigorous laws for the protection of the revenue and for the punishment of frauds and smuggling. This can best be done by judicious provisions that will induce the disclosure of attempted fraud by undervaluation and smuggling. All revenue laws should be simple in their provisions and easily understood. So far as practicable, the rates of taxation should be in the form of specific duties, and not ad valorem, requiring the judgment of experienced men to ascertain values and exposing the revenue to the temptation of fraud. My attention has been called during the recess of Congress to abuses existing in the collection of the customs, and strenuous efforts have been made for their correction by Executive orders. The recommendations submitted to the Secretary of the Treasury by a commission appointed to examine into the collection of customs duties at the port of New York contain many suggestions for the modification of the customs laws, to which the attention of Congress is invited. It is matter of congratulation that notwithstanding the severe burdens caused by the war the public faith with all creditors has been preserved, and that as the result of this policy the public credit has continuously advanced and our public securities are regarded with the highest favor in the markets of the world. I trust that no act of the Government will cast a shadow upon its credit. The progress of refunding the public debt has been rapid and satisfactory. Under the contract existing when I entered upon the discharge of the duties of my office, bonds bearing interest at the rate of 4 1/2 per cent were being rapidly sold, and within three months the aggregate sales of these bonds had reached the sum of $200,000,000. With my sanction the Secretary of the Treasury entered into a new contract for the sale of 4 per cent bonds, and within thirty days after the popular subscription for such bonds was opened subscriptions were had amounting to $75,496,550, which were paid for within ninety days after the date of subscription. By this process, within but little more than one year, the annual interest on the public debt was reduced in the sum of $3,775,000. I recommended that suitable provision be made to enable the people to easily convert their savings into Government securities, as the best mode in which small savings may be well secured and yield a moderate interest. It is an object of public policy to retain among our own people the securities of the United States. In this way our country is guarded against their sudden return from foreign countries, caused by war or other disturbances beyond our limits. The commerce of the United States with foreign nations, and especially the export of domestic productions, has of late years largely increased; but the greater portion of this trade is conducted in foreign vessels. The importance of enlarging our foreign trade, and especially by direct and speedy interchange with countries on this continent, can not be overestimated; and it is a matter of great moment that our own shipping interest should receive, to the utmost practical extent, the benefit of our commerce with other lands. These considerations are forcibly urged by all the large commercial cities of the country, and public attention is generally and wisely attracted to the solution of the problems they present. It is not doubted that Congress will take them up in the broadest spirit of liberality and respond to the public demand by practical legislation upon this important subject. The report of the Secretary of War shows that the Army has been actively employed during the year, and has rendered very important service in suppressing hostilities in the Indian country and in preserving peace and protecting life and property in the interior as well as along the Mexican border. A long and arduous campaign has been prosecuted, with final complete success, against a portion of the Nez Perce' tribe of Indians. A full account of this campaign will be found in the report of the General of the Army. It will be seen that in its course several severe battles were fought, in which a number of gallant officers and men lost their lives. I join with the Secretary of War and the General of the Army in awarding to the officers and men employed in the long and toilsome pursuit and in the final capture of these Indians the honor and praise which are so justly their due. The very serious riots which occurred in several of the States in July last rendered necessary the employment of a considerable portion of the Army to preserve the peace and maintain order. In the States of West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Illinois these disturbances were so formidable as to defy the local and State authorities, and the National Executive was called upon, in the mode provided by the Constitution and laws, to furnish military aid. I am gratified to be able to state that the troops sent in response to these calls for aid in the suppression of domestic violence were able, by the influence of their presence in the disturbed regions, to preserve the peace and restore order without the use of force. In the discharge of this delicate and important duty both officers and men acted with great prudence and courage, and for their services deserve the thanks of the country. Disturbances along the Rio Grande in Texas, to which I have already referred, have rendered necessary the constant employment of a military force in that vicinity. A full report of all recent military operations in that quarter has been transmitted to the House of Representatives in answer to a resolution of that body, and it will therefore not be necessary to enter into details. I regret to say that these lawless incursions into our territory by armed bands from the Mexican side of the line, for the purpose of robbery, have been of frequent occurrence, and in spite of the most vigilant efforts of the commander of our forces the marauders have generally succeeded in escaping into Mexico with their plunder. In May last I gave orders for the exercise of the utmost vigilance on the part of our troops for the suppression of these raids and the punishment of the guilty parties, as well as the recapture of property stolen by them. General Ord, commanding in Texas, was directed to invite the cooperation of the Mexican authorities in efforts to this end, and to assure them that I was anxious to avoid giving the least offense to Mexico. At the same time, he was directed to give notice of my determination to put an end to the invasion of our territory by lawless bands intent upon the plunder of our peaceful citizens, even if the effectual punishment of the outlaws should make the crossing of the border by our troops in their pursuit necessary. It is believed that this policy has had the effect to check somewhat these depredations, and that with a considerable increase of our force upon that frontier and the establishment of several additional military posts along the Rio Grande, so as more effectually to guard that extensive border, peace may be preserved and the lives and property of our citizens in Texas fully protected. Prior to the 1st day of July last the Army was, in accordance with law, reduced to the maximum of 25,000 enlisted men, being a reduction of 2,500 below the force previously authorized. This reduction was made, as required by law, entirely from the infantry and artillery branches of the service, without any reduction of the cavalry. Under the law as it now stands it is necessary that the cavalry regiments be recruited to 100 men in each company for service on the Mexican and Indian frontiers. The necessary effect of this legislation is to reduce the infantry and artillery arms of the service below the number required for efficiency, and I concur with the Secretary of War in recommending that authority be given to recruit all companies of infantry to at least 50 men and all batteries of artillery to at least 75 men, with the power, in case of emergency, to increase the former to 100 and the latter to 122 men each. I invite your special attention to the following recommendations of the Secretary of War: First. That provision be made for supplying to the Army a more abundant and better supply of reading matter. Second. That early action be taken by Congress looking to a complete revision and republication of the Army Regulations. Third. That section 1258 of the Revised Statutes, limiting the number of officers on the retired list, be repealed. Fourth. That the claims arising under the act of July 4, 1864, for supplies taken by the Army during the war, be taken from the offices of the Quartermaster and Commissary Generals and transferred to the Southern Claims Commission, or some other tribunal having more time and better facilities for their prompt investigation and decision than are possessed by these officers. Fifth. That Congress provide for an annuity fund for the families of deceased soldiers, as recommended by the paymaster-General of the Army. The report of the Secretary of the Navy shows that we have six squadrons now engaged in the protection of our foreign commerce and other duties pertaining to the naval service. The condition and operations of the Department are also shown. The total expenditures for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1877, were $16,077,974.54. There are unpaid claims against the Department chargeable to the last year, which are presented to the consideration of Congress by the report of the Secretary. The estimates for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 1878, are $16,233,234.40, exclusive of the sum of $2,314,231 submitted for new buildings, repairs, and improvements at the several navy-yards. The appropriations for the present fiscal year, commencing July 1, 1877, are $13,592,932.90. The amount drawn from the Treasury from July 1 to November 1, 1877, is $5,343,037.40, of which there is estimated to be yet available $1,029,528.30, showing the amount of actual expenditure during the first four months of the present fiscal year to have been $4,313,509.10. The report of the Postmaster-General contains a full and clear statement of the operations and condition of the Post-Office Department. The ordinary revenues of the Department for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1877, including receipts from the money-order business and from official stamps and stamped envelopes, amounted to the sum of $27,531,585.26. The additional sum of $7,013,000 was realized from appropriations from the general Treasury for various purposes, making the receipts from all sources $34,544,885.26. The total expenditures during the fiscal year amounted to $33,486,322.44, leaving an excess of total receipts over total expenditures of $1,058,562.82, and an excess of total expenditures over ordinary receipts of $5,954,737.18. Deducting from the total receipts the sum of $63,261.84, received from international money orders of the preceding fiscal year, and deducting from the total expenditures the sum of $1,163,818.20, paid on liabilities incurred in previous fiscal years, the expenditures and receipts appertaining to the business of the last fiscal year were as follows: 
 The ordinary revenues of the Post-Office Department for the year ending June 30, 1879, are estimated at an increase of 3 per cent over those of 1877, making $29,034,098.28, and the expenditures for the same year are estimated at $36,427,771, leaving an estimated deficiency for the year 1879 of $7,393,672.72. The additional legislation recommended by the Postmaster-General for improvements of the mail service and to protect the postal revenues from the abuses practiced under existing laws is respectfully commended to the careful consideration of Congress. The report of the Attorney-General contains several suggestions as to the administration of justice, to which I invite your attention. The pressure of business in the Supreme Court and in certain circuit courts of the United States is now such that serious delays, to the great injury, and even oppression, of suitors, occur, and a remedy should be sought for this condition of affairs. Whether it will be found in the plan briefly sketched in the report, of increasing the number of judges of the circuit courts, and, by means of this addition to the judicial force, of creating an intermediate court of errors and appeals, or whether some other mode can be devised for obviating the difficulties which now exist, I leave to your mature consideration. The present condition of the Indian tribes in the territory of the United States and our relations with them are fully set forth in the reports of the Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. After a series of most deplorable conflicts--the successful termination of which, while reflecting honor upon the brave soldiers who accomplished it, can not lessen our regret at their occurrence--we are now at peace with all the Indian tribes within our borders. To preserve that peace by a just and humane policy will be the object of my earnest endeavors. Whatever may be said of their character and savage propensities, of the difficulties of introducing among them the habits of civilized life, and of the obstacles they have offered to the progress of settlement and enterprise in certain parts of the country, the Indians are certainly entitled to our sympathy and to a conscientious respect on our part for their claims upon our sense of justice. They were the aboriginal occupants of the land we now possess. They have been driven from place to place. The purchase money paid to them in some cases for what they called their own has still left them poor. In many instances, when they had settled down upon land assigned to them by compact and begun to support themselves by their own labor, they were rudely jostled off and thrust into the wilderness again. Many, if not most, of our Indian wars have had their origin in broken promises and acts of injustice upon our part, and the advance of the Indians in civilization has been slow because the treatment they received did not permit it to be faster and more general. We can not expect them to improve and to follow our guidance unless we keep faith with them in respecting the rights they possess, and unless, instead of depriving them of their opportunities, we lend them a helping hand. I cordially approve the policy regarding the management of Indian affairs outlined in the reports of the Secretary of the Interior and of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. The faithful performance of our promises is the first condition of a good understanding with the Indians. I can not too urgently recommend to Congress that prompt and liberal provision be made for the conscientious fulfillment of all engagements entered into by the Government with the Indian tribes. To withhold the means necessary for the performance of a promise is always false economy, and is apt to prove disastrous in its consequences. Especial care is recommended to provide for Indians settled on their reservations cattle and agricultural implements, to aid them in whatever efforts they may make to support themselves, and by the establishment and maintenance of schools to bring them under the control of civilized influences. I see no reason why Indians who can give satisfactory proof of having by their own labor supported their families for a number of years, and who are willing to detach themselves from their tribal relations, should not be admitted to the benefit of the homestead act and the privileges of citizenship, and I recommend the passage of a law to that effect. It will be an act of justice as well as a measure of encouragement. Earnest efforts are being made to purify the Indian service, so that every dollar appropriated by Congress shall redound to the benefit of the Indians, as intended. Those efforts will have my firm support. With an improved service and every possible encouragement held out to the Indians to better their condition and to elevate themselves in the scale of civilization, we may hope to accomplish at the same time a good work for them and for ourselves. I invite the attention of Congress to the importance of the statements and suggestions made by the Secretary of the Interior concerning the depredations committed on the timber lands of the United States and the necessity for the preservation of forests. It is believed that the measures taken in pursuance of existing laws to arrest those depredations will be entirely successful if Congress, by an appropriation for that purpose, renders their continued enforcement possible. The experience of other nations teaches us that a country can not be stripped of its forests with impunity, and we shall expose ourselves to the gravest consequences unless the wasteful and improvident manner in which the forests in the United States are destroyed be effectually checked. I earnestly recommend that the measures suggested by the Secretary of the Interior for the suppression of depredations on the public timber lands of the United States, for the selling of timber from the public lands, and for the preservation of forests be embodied in a law, and that, considering the urgent necessity of enabling the people of certain States and Territories to purchase timber from the public lands in a legal manner, which at present they can not do, such a law be passed without unavoidable delay. I would also call the attention of Congress to the statements made by the Secretary of the Interior concerning the disposition that might be made of the desert lands, not irrigable, west of the one hundredth meridian. These lands are practically unsalable under existing laws, and the suggestion is worthy of consideration that a system of leasehold tenure would make them a source of profit to the United States, while at the same time legalizing the business of cattle raising which is at present carried on upon them. The report of the Commissioner of Agriculture contains the gratifying announcement of the extraordinary success which has rewarded the agricultural industry of the country for the past year. With the fair prices which obtain for the products of the soil, especially for the surplus which our people have to export, we may confidently turn to this as the most important of all our resources for the revival of the depressed industries of the country. The report shows our agricultural progress during the year, and contains a statement of the work done by this Department for the advancement of agricultural industry, upon which the prosperity of our people so largely depends. Matters of information are included of great interest to all who seek, by the experience of others, to improve their own methods of cultivation. The efforts of the Department to increase the production of important articles of consumption will, it is hoped, improve the demand for labor and advance the business of the country, and eventually result in saving some of the many millions that are now annually paid to foreign nations for sugar and other staple products which habitual use has made necessary in our domestic everyday life. The board on behalf of the United States Executive Departments at the International Exhibition of 1876 has concluded its labors. The final report of the board was transmitted to Congress by the President near the close of the last session. As these papers are understood to contain interesting and valuable information, and will constitute the only report emanating from the Government on the subject of the exhibition, I invite attention to the matter and recommend that the report be published for general information. Congress is empowered by the Constitution with the authority of exclusive legislation over the District of Columbia, in which the seat of Government of the nation is located. The interests of the District, having no direct representation in Congress, are entitled to especial consideration and care at the hands of the General Government. The capital of the United States belongs to the nation, and it is natural that the American people should take pride in the seat of their National Government and desire it to be an ornament to the country. Much has been done to render it healthful, convenient, and attractive, but much remains to be done, which its permanent inhabitants are not able and ought not to be expected to do. To impose upon them a large proportion of the cost required for public improvements, which are in a great measure planned and executed for the convenience of the Government and of the many thousands of visitors from all parts of the country who temporarily reside at the capital of the nation, is an evident injustice. Special attention is asked by the Commissioners of the District in their report, which is herewith transmitted, to the importance of a permanent adjustment by Congress of the financial relations between the United States and the District, involving the regular annual contribution by the United States of its just proportion of the expenses of the District government and of the outlay for all needed public improvements, and such measure of relief from the burden of taxation now resting upon the people of the District as in the wisdom of Congress may be deemed just. The report of the Commissioners shows that the affairs of the District are in a condition as satisfactory as could be expected in view of the heavy burden of debt resting upon it and its very limited means for necessary expenses. The debt of the District is as follows: 
 The Commissioners also ask attention to the importance of the improvement of the Potomac River and the reclamation of the marshes bordering the city of Washington, and their views upon this subject are concurred in by the members of the board of health, whose report is also herewith transmitted. Both the commercial and sanitary interests of the District will be greatly promoted, I doubt not, by this improvement. Your attention is invited to the suggestion of the Commissioners and of the board of health for the organization of a board of charities, to have supervision and control of the disbursement of all moneys for charitable purposes from the District treasury. I desire also to ask your especial attention to the need of adding to the efficiency of the public schools of the District by supplemental aid from the National Treasury. This is especially just, since so large a number of those attending these schools are children of employees of the Government. I earnestly commend to your care the interests of the people of the District, who are so intimately associated with the Government establishments, and to whose enterprise the good order and attractiveness of the capital are largely due; and I ask your attention to the request of the Commissioners for legislation in behalf of the interests intrusted to their care. The appropriations asked for the care of the reservations belonging to the Government within the city, by the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds, are also commended to your favorable consideration. The report of the joint commission created by the act approved 2d of August, 1876, entitled "An act providing for the completion of the Washington Monument," is also herewith transmitted, with accompanying documents. The board of engineer officers detailed to examine the monument, in compliance with the second section of the act, have reported that the foundation is insufficient. No authority exists for making the expenditure necessary to secure its stability. I therefore recommend that the commission be authorized to expend such portion of the sum appropriated by the act as may be necessary for the purpose. The present unfinished condition of the monument, begun so long ago, is a reproach to the nation. It can not be doubted that the patriotic sense of the country will warmly respond to such prompt provision as may be made for its completion at an early day, and I urge upon Congress the propriety and necessity of immediate legislation for this purpose. The wisdom of legislation upon the part of Congress, in aid of the States, for the education of the whole people in those branches of study which are taught in the common schools of the country is no longer a question. The intelligent judgment of the country goes still further, regarding it as also both constitutional and expedient for the General Government to extend to technical and higher education such aid as is deemed essential to the general welfare and to our due prominence among the enlightened and cultured nations of the world. The ultimate settlement of all questions of the future, whether of administration or finance or of true nationality of sentiment, depends upon the virtue and intelligence of the people. It is vain to hope for the success of a free government without the means of insuring the intelligence of those who are the source of power. No less than one-seventh of the entire voting population of our country are yet unable to read and write. It is encouraging to observe, in connection with the growth of fraternal feeling in those States in which slavery formerly existed, evidences of increasing interest in universal education, and I shall be glad to give my approval to any appropriate measures which may be enacted by Congress for the purpose of supplementing with national aid the local systems of education in those States and in all the States; and, having already invited your attention to the needs of the District of Columbia with respect to its public-school system, I here add that I believe it desirable, not so much with reference to the local wants of the District, but to the great and lasting benefit of the entire country, that this system should be crowned with a university in all respects in keeping with the national capital, and thereby realize the cherished hopes of Washington on this subject. I also earnestly commend the request of the Regents of the Smithsonian Institution that an adequate appropriation be made for the establishment and conduct of a national museum under their supervision. The question of providing for the preservation and growth of the Library of Congress is also one of national importance. As the depository of all copyright publications and records, this library has outgrown the provisions for its accommodation; and the erection, on such site as the judgment of Congress may approve, of a fireproof library building, to preserve the treasures and enlarge the usefulness of this valuable collection, is recommended. I recommend also such legislation as will render available and efficient for the purposes of instruction, so far as is consistent with the public service, the cabinets or museums of invention, of surgery, of education, and of agriculture, and other collections the property of the National Government. The capital of the nation should be something more than a mere political center. We should avail ourselves of all the opportunities which Providence has here placed at our command to promote the general intelligence of the people and increase the conditions most favorable to the success and perpetuity of our institutions.
With devout gratitude to the bountiful Giver of All Good, I congratulate you that at the beginning of your first regular session you find our country blessed with health and peace and abundant harvests, and with encouraging prospects of an early return of general prosperity. To complete and make permanent the pacification of the country continues to be, and until it is fully accomplished must remain, the most important of all our national interests. The earnest purpose of good citizens generally to unite their efforts in this endeavor is evident. It found decided expression in the resolutions announced in 1876 by the national conventions of the leading political parties of the country. There was a widespread apprehension that the momentous results in our progress as a nation marked by the recent amendments to the Constitution were in imminent jeopardy; that the good understanding which prompted their adoption, in the interest of a loyal devotion to the general welfare, might prove a barren truce, and that the two sections of the country, once engaged in civil strife, might be again almost as widely severed and disunited as they were when arrayed in arms against each other. The course to be pursued, which, in my judgment, seemed wisest in the presence of this emergency, was plainly indicated in my inaugural address. It pointed to the time, which all our people desire to see, when a genuine love of our whole country and of all that concerns its true welfare shall supplant the destructive forces of the mutual animosity of races and of sectional hostility. Opinions have differed widely as to the measures best calculated to secure this great end. This was to be expected. The measures adopted by the Administration have been subjected to severe and varied criticism. Any course whatever which might have been entered upon would certainly have encountered distrust and opposition. These measures were, in my judgment, such as were most in harmony with the Constitution and with the genius of our people, and best adapted, under all the circumstances, to attain the end in view. Beneficent results, already apparent, prove that these endeavors are not to be regarded as a mere experiment, and should sustain and encourage us in our efforts. Already, in the brief period which has elapsed, the immediate effectiveness, no less than the justice, of the course pursued is demonstrated, and I have an abiding faith that time will furnish its ample vindication in the minds of the great majority of my fellow-citizens. The discontinuance of the use of the Army for the purpose of upholding local governments in two States of the Union was no less a constitutional duty and requirement, under the circumstances existing at the time, than it was a much-needed measure for the restoration of local self-government and the promotion of national harmony. The withdrawal of the troops from such employment was effected deliberately, and with solicitous care for the peace and good order of society and the protection of the property and persons and every right of all classes of citizens. The results that have followed are indeed significant and encouraging. All apprehension of danger from remitting those States to local self-government is dispelled, and a most salutary change in the minds of the people has begun and is in progress in every part of that section of the country once the theater of unhappy civil strife, substituting for suspicion, distrust, and aversion, concord, friendship, and patriotic attachment to the Union. No unprejudiced mind will deny that the terrible and often fatal collisions which for several years have been of frequent occurrence and have agitated and alarmed the public mind have almost entirely ceased, and that a spirit of mutual forbearance and hearty national interest has succeeded. There has been a general reestablishment of order and of the orderly administration of justice. Instances of remaining lawlessness have become of rare occurrence; political turmoil and turbulence have disappeared; useful industries have been resumed; public credit in the Southern States has been greatly strengthened, and the encouraging benefits of a revival of commerce between the sections of the country lately embroiled in civil war are fully enjoyed. Such are some of the results already attained, upon which the country is to be congratulated. They are of such importance that we may with confidence patiently await the desired consummation that will surely come with the natural progress of events. It may not be improper here to say that it should be our fixed and unalterable determination to protect by all available and proper means under the Constitution and the laws the lately emancipated race in the enjoyment of their rights and privileges; and I urge upon those to whom heretofore the colored people have sustained the relation of bondmen the wisdom and justice of humane and liberal local legislation with respect to their education and general welfare. A firm adherence to the laws, both national and State, as to the civil and political rights of the colored people, now advanced to full and equal citizenship; the immediate repression and sure punishment by the national and local authorities, within their respective jurisdictions, of every instance of lawlessness and violence toward them, is required for the security alike of both races, and is justly demanded by the public opinion of the country and the age. In this way the restoration of harmony and good will and the complete protection of every citizen in the full enjoyment of every constitutional right will surely be attained. Whatever authority rests with me to this end I shall not hesitate to put forth. Whatever belongs to the power of Congress and the jurisdiction of the courts of the Union, they may confidently be relied upon to provide and perform; and to the legislatures, the courts, and the executive authorities of the several States I earnestly appeal to secure, by adequate, appropriate, and seasonable means, Within their borders, these common and uniform rights of a united people which loves liberty, abhors oppression, and reveres justice. These objects are very dear to my heart. I shall continue most earnestly to strive for their attainment. The cordial cooperation of all classes, of all sections of the country and of both races, is required for this purpose; and with these blessings assured, and not otherwise, we may safely hope to hand down our free institutions of government unimpaired to the generations that will succeed us. Among the other subjects of great and general importance to the people of this country, I can not be mistaken, I think, in regarding as preeminent the policy and measures which are designed to secure the restoration of the currency to that normal and healthful condition in which, by the resumption of specie payments, our internal trade and foreign commerce may be brought into harmony with the system of exchanges which is based upon the precious metals as the intrinsic money of the world. In the public judgment that this end should be sought and compassed as speedily and securely as the resources of the people and the wisdom of their Government can accomplish, there is a much greater degree of unanimity than is found to concur in the specific measures which will bring the country to this desired end or the rapidity of the steps by which it can be safely reached. Upon a most anxious and deliberate examination, which I have felt it my duty to give to the subject, I am but the more confirmed in the opinion which I expressed in accepting the nomination for the Presidency, and again upon my inauguration, that the policy of resumption should be pursued by every suitable means, and that no legislation would be wise that should disparage the importance or retard the attainment of that result. I have no disposition, and certainly no right, to question the sincerity or the intelligence of opposing opinions, and would neither conceal nor undervalue the considerable difficulties, and even occasional distresses, which may attend the progress of the nation toward this primary condition to its general and permanent prosperity. I must, however, adhere to my most earnest conviction that any wavering in purpose or unsteadiness in methods, so far from avoiding or reducing the inconvenience inseparable from the transition from an irredeemable to a redeemable paper currency, would only tend to increased and prolonged disturbance in values, and unless retrieved must end in serious disorder, dishonor, and disaster in the financial affairs of the Government and of the people. The mischiefs which I apprehend and urgently deprecate are confined to no class of the people, indeed, but seem to me most certainly to threaten the industrious masses, whether their occupations are of skilled or common labor. To them, it seems to me, it is of prime importance that their labor should be compensated in money which is itself fixed in exchangeable value by being irrevocably measured by the labor necessary to its production. This permanent quality of the money of the people is sought for, and can only be gained by the resumption of specie payments. The rich, the speculative, the operating, the money-dealing classes may not always feel the mischiefs of, or may find casual profits in, a variable currency, but the misfortunes of such a currency to those who are paid salaries or wages are inevitable and remediless. Closely connected with this general subject of the resumption of specie payments is one of subordinate, but still of grave, importance; I mean the readjustment of our coinage system by the renewal of the silver dollar as an element in our specie currency, endowed by legislation with the quality of legal tender to a greater or less extent. As there is no doubt of the power of Congress under the Constitution "to coin money and regulate the value thereof," and as this power covers the whole range of authority applicable to the metal, the rated value and the legal-tender quality which shall be adopted for the coinage, the considerations which should induce or discourage a particular measure connected with the coinage, belong clearly to the province of legislative discretion and of public expediency. Without intruding upon this province of legislation in the least, I have yet thought the subject of such critical importance, in the actual condition of our affairs, as to present an occasion for the exercise of the duty imposed by the Constitution on the President of recommending to the consideration of Congress "such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient." Holding the opinion, as I do, that neither the interests of the Government nor of the people of the United States would be promoted by disparaging silver as one of the two precious metals which furnish the coinage of the world, and that legislation which looks to maintaining the volume of intrinsic money to as full a measure of both metals as their relative commercial values will permit would be neither unjust nor inexpedient, I must ask your indulgence to a brief and definite statement of certain essential features in any such legislative measure which I feel it my duty to recommend. I do not propose to enter the debate, represented on both sides by such able disputants in Congress and before the people and in the press, as to the extent to which the legislation of any one nation can control this question, even within its own borders, against the unwritten laws of trade or the positive laws of other governments. The wisdom of Congress in shaping any particular law that may be presented for my approval may wholly supersede the necessity of my entering into these considerations, and I willingly avoid either vague or intricate inquiries. It is only certain plain and practical traits of such legislation that I desire to recommend to your attention. In any legislation providing for a silver coinage, regulating its value, and imparting to it the quality of legal tender, it seems to me of great importance that Congress should not lose sight of its action as operating in a twofold capacity and in two distinct directions. If the United States Government were free from a public debt, its legislative dealing with the question of silver coinage would be purely sovereign and governmental, under no restraints but those of constitutional power and the public good as affected by the proposed legislation. But in the actual circumstances of the nation, with a vast public debt distributed very widely among our own citizens and held in great amounts also abroad, the nature of the silver-coinage measure, as affecting this relation of the Government to the holders of the public debt, becomes an element, in any proposed legislation, of the highest concern. The obligation of the public faith transcends all questions of profit or public advantage otherwise. Its unquestionable maintenance is the dictate as well of the highest expediency as of the most necessary duty, and will ever be carefully guarded by Congress and people alike. The public debt of the United States to the amount of $729,000,000 bears interest at the rate of 6 per cent, and $708,000,000 at the rate of 5 per cent, and the only way in which the country can be relieved from the payment of these high rates of interest is by advantageously refunding the indebtedness. Whether the debt is ultimately paid in gold or in silver coin is of but little moment compared with the possible reduction of interest one-third by refunding it at such reduced rate. If the United States had the unquestioned right to pay its bonds in silver coin, the little benefit from that process would be greatly overbalanced by the injurious effect of such payment if made or proposed against the honest convictions of the public creditors. All the bonds that have been issued since February 12, 1873, when gold became the only unlimited legal-tender metallic currency of the country, are justly payable in gold coin or in coin of equal value. During the time of these issues the only dollar that could be or was received by the Government in exchange for bonds was the gold dollar. To require the public creditors to take in repayment any dollar of less commercial value would be regarded by them as a repudiation of the full obligation assumed. The bonds issued prior to 1873 were issued at a time when the gold dollar was the only coin in circulation or contemplated by either the Government or the holders of the bonds as the coin in which they were to be paid. It is far better to pay these bonds in that coin than to seem to take advantage of the unforeseen fall in silver bullion to pay in a new issue of silver coin thus made so much less valuable. The power of the United States to coin money and to regulate the value thereof ought never to be exercised for the purpose of enabling the Government to pay its obligations in a coin of less value than that contemplated by the parties when the bonds were issued. Any attempt to pay the national indebtedness in a coinage of less commercial value than the money of the world would involve a violation of the public faith and work irreparable injury to the public credit. It was the great merit of the act of March, 1869, in strengthening the public credit, that it removed all doubt as to the purpose of the United States to pay their bonded debt in coin. That act was accepted as a pledge of public faith. The Government has derived great benefit from it in the progress thus far made in refunding the public debt at low rates of interest. An adherence to the wise and just policy of an exact observance of the public faith will enable the Government rapidly to reduce the burden of interest on the national debt to an amount exceeding $20,000,000 per annum, and effect an aggregate saving to the United States of more than $300,000,000 before the bonds can be fully paid. In adapting the new silver coinage to the ordinary uses of currency in the everyday transactions of life and prescribing the quality of legal tender to be assigned to it, a consideration of the first importance should be so to adjust the ratio between the silver and the gold coinage, which now constitutes our specie currency, as to accomplish the desired end of maintaining the circulation of the two metallic currencies and keeping up the volume of the two precious metals as our intrinsic money. It is a mixed question, for scientific reasoning and historical experience to determine, how far and by what methods a practical equilibrium can be maintained which will keep both metals in circulation in their appropriate spheres of common use. An absolute equality of commercial value, free from disturbing fluctuations, is hardly attainable, and without it an unlimited legal tender for private transactions assigned to both metals would irresistibly tend to drive out of circulation the clearer coinage and disappoint the principal object proposed by the legislation in view. I apprehend, therefore, that the two conditions of a near approach to equality of commercial value between the gold and silver coinage of the same denomination and of a limitation of the amounts for which the silver coinage is to be a legal tender are essential to maintaining both in circulation. If these conditions can be successfully observed, the issue from the mint of silver dollars would afford material assistance to the community in the transition to redeemable paper money, and would facilitate the resumption of specie payment and its permanent establishment. Without these conditions I fear that only mischief and misfortune would flow from a coinage of silver dollars with the quality of unlimited legal tender, even in private transactions. Any expectation of temporary ease from an issue of silver coinage to pass as a legal tender at a rate materially above its commercial value is, I am persuaded, a delusion. Nor can I think that there is any substantial distinction between an original issue of silver dollars at a nominal value materially above their commercial value and the restoration of the silver dollar at a rate which once was, but has ceased to be, its commercial value. Certainly the issue of our gold coinage, reduced in weight materially below its legal-tender value, would not be any the less a present debasement of the coinage by reason of its equaling, or even exceeding, in weight a gold coinage which at some past time had been commercially equal to the legal-tender value assigned to the new issue. In recommending that the regulation of any silver coinage which may be authorized by Congress should observe these conditions of commercial value and limited legal tender, I am governed by the feeling that every possible increase should be given to the volume of metallic money which can be kept in circulation, and thereby every possible aid afforded to the people in the process of resuming specie payments. It is because of my firm conviction that a disregard of these conditions would frustrate the good results which are desired from the proposed coinage, and embarrass with new elements of confusion and uncertainty the business of the country, that I urge upon your attention these considerations. I respectfully recommend to Congress that in any legislation providing for a silver coinage and imparting to it the quality of legal tender there be impressed upon the measure a firm provision exempting the public debt heretofore issued and now outstanding from payment, either of principal or interest, in any coinage of less commercial value than the present gold coinage of the country. The organization of the civil service of the country has for a number of years attracted more and more of the public attention. So general has become the opinion that the methods of admission to it and the conditions of remaining in it are unsound that both the great political parties have agreed in the most explicit declarations of the necessity of reform and in the most emphatic demands for it. I have fully believed these declarations and demands to be the expression of a sincere conviction of the intelligent masses of the people upon the subject, and that they should be recognized and followed by earnest and prompt action on the part of the legislative and executive departments of the Government, in pursuance of the purpose indicated. Before my accession to office I endeavored to have my own views distinctly understood, and upon my inauguration my accord with the public opinion was stated in terms believed to be plain and unambiguous. My experience in the executive duties has strongly confirmed the belief in the great advantage the country would find in observing strictly the plan of the Constitution, which imposes upon the Executive the sole duty and responsibility of the selection of those Federal officers who by law are appointed, not elected, and which in like manner assigns to the Senate the complete right to advise and consent to or to reject the nominations so made, whilst the House of Representatives stands as the public censor of the performance of official duties, with the prerogative of investigation and prosecution in all cases of dereliction. The blemishes and imperfections in the civil service may, as I think, be traced in most cases to a practical confusion of the duties assigned to the several Departments of the Government. My purpose in this respect has been to return to the system established by the fundamental law, and to do this with the heartiest cooperation and most cordial understanding with the Senate and House of Representatives. The practical difficulties in the selection of numerous officers for posts of widely varying responsibilities and duties are acknowledged to be very great. No system can be expected to secure absolute freedom from mistakes, and the beginning of any attempted change of custom is quite likely to be more embarrassed in this respect than any subsequent period. It is here that the Constitution seems to me to prove its claim to the great wisdom accorded to it. It gives to the Executive the assistance of the knowledge and experience of the Senate, which, when acting upon nominations as to which they may be disinterested and impartial judges, secures as strong a guaranty of freedom from errors of importance as is perhaps possible in human affairs. In addition to this, I recognize the public advantage of making all nominations, as nearly as possible, impersonal, in the sense of being free from mere caprice or favor in the selection; and in those offices in which special training is of greatly increased value I believe such a rule as to the tenure of office should obtain as may induce men of proper qualifications to apply themselves industriously to the task of becoming proficients. Bearing these things in mind, I have endeavored to reduce the number of changes in subordinate places usually made upon the change of the general administration, and shall most heartily cooperate with Congress in the better systematizing of such methods and rules of admission to the public service and of promotion within it as, may promise to be most successful in making thorough competency, efficiency, and character the decisive tests in these matters. I ask the renewed attention of Congress to what has already been done by the Civil Service Commission, appointed, in pursuance of an act of Congress, by my predecessor, to prepare and revise civil-service rules. In regard to much of the departmental service, especially at Washington, it may be difficult to organize a better system than that which has thus been provided, and it is now being used to a considerable extent under my direction. The Commission has still a legal existence, although for several years no appropriation has been made for defraying its expenses. Believing that this Commission has rendered valuable service and will be a most useful agency in improving the administration of the civil service, I respectfully recommend that a suitable appropriation, to be immediately available, be made to enable it to continue its labors. It is my purpose to transmit to Congress as early as practicable a report by the chairman of the Commission, and to ask your attention to such measures on this subject as in my opinion will further promote the improvement of the civil service. During the past year the United States have continued to maintain peaceful relations with foreign powers. The outbreak of war between Russia and Turkey, though at one time attended by grave apprehension as to its effect upon other European nations, has had no tendency to disturb the amicable relations existing between the United States and each of the two contending powers. An attitude of just and impartial neutrality has been preserved, and I am gratified to state that in the midst of their hostilities both the Russian and the Turkish Governments have shown an earnest disposition to adhere to the obligations of all treaties with the United States and to give due regard to the rights of American citizens. By the terms of the treaty defining the rights, immunities, and privileges of consuls, between Italy and the United States, ratified in 1868, either Government may, after the lapse of ten years, terminate the existence of the treaty by giving twelve months' notice of its intention. The Government of Italy, availing itself of this faculty, has now given the required notice, and the treaty will accordingly end on the 17th of September, 1878. It is understood, however, that the Italian Government wishes to renew it in its general scope, desiring only certain modifications in some of its articles. In this disposition I concur, and shall hope that no serious obstacles may intervene to prevent or delay the negotiation of a satisfactory treaty. Numerous questions in regard to passports, naturalization, and exemption from military service have continued to arise in cases of emigrants from Germany who have returned to their native country. The provisions of the treaty of February 22, 1868, however, have proved to be so ample and so judicious that the legation of the United States at Berlin has been able to adjust all claims arising under it, not only without detriment to the amicable relations existing between the two Governments, but, it is believed, without injury or injustice to any duly naturalized American citizen. It is desirable that the treaty originally made with the North German Union in 1868 should now be extended so as to apply equally to all the States of the Empire of Germany. The invitation of the Government of France to participate in the Exposition of the Products of Agriculture, Industry, and the Fine Arts to be held at Paris during the coming year was submitted for your consideration at the extra session. It is not doubted that its acceptance by the United States, and a well-selected exhibition of the products of American industry on that occasion, will tend to stimulate international commerce and emigration, as well as to promote the traditional friendship between the two countries. A question arose some time since as to the proper meaning of the extradition articles of the treaty of 1842 between the United States and Great Britain. Both Governments, however, are now in accord in the belief that the question is not one that should be allowed to frustrate the ends of justice or to disturb the friendship between the two nations. No serious difficulty has arisen in accomplishing the extradition of criminals when necessary. It is probable that all points of disagreement will in due time be settled, and, if need be, more explicit declarations be made in a new treaty. The Fishery Commission under Articles XVIII to XXV of the treaty of Washington has concluded its session at Halifax. The result of the deliberations of the commission, as made public by the commissioners, will be communicated to Congress. A treaty for the protection of trade-marks has been negotiated with Great Britain, which has been submitted to the Senate for its consideration. The revolution which recently occurred in Mexico was followed by the accession of the successful party to power and the installation of its chief, General Porfirio Diaz, in the Presidential office. It has been the custom of the United States, when such changes of government have heretofore occurred in Mexico, to recognize and enter into official relations with the de facto government as soon as it should appear to have the approval of the Mexican people and should manifest a disposition to adhere to the obligations of treaties and international friendship. In the present case such official recognition has been deferred by the occurrences on the Rio Grande border, the records of which have been already communicated to each House of Congress in answer to their respective resolutions of inquiry. Assurances have been received that the authorities at the seat of the Mexican Government have both the disposition and the power to prevent and punish such unlawful invasions and depredations. It is earnestly to be hoped that events may prove these assurances to be well rounded. The best interests of both countries require the maintenance of peace upon the border and the development of commerce between the two Republics. It is gratifying to add that this temporary interruption of official relations has not prevented due attention by the representatives of the United States in Mexico to the protection of American citizens, so far as practicable; nor has it interfered with the prompt payment of the amounts due from Mexico to the United States under the treaty of July 4, 1868, and the awards of the joint commission. While I do not anticipate an interruption of friendly relations with Mexico, yet I can not but look with some solicitude upon a continuance of border disorders as exposing the two countries to initiations of popular feeling and mischances of action which are naturally unfavorable to complete amity. Firmly determined that nothing shall be wanting on my part to promote a good understanding between the two nations, I yet must ask the attention of Congress to the actual occurrences on the border, that the lives and property of our citizens may be adequately protected and peace preserved. Another year has passed without bringing to a close the protracted contest between the Spanish Government and the insurrection in the island of Cuba. While the United States have sedulously abstained from any intervention in this contest, it is impossible not to feel that it is attended with incidents affecting the rights and interests of American citizens. Apart from the effect of the hostilities upon trade between the United States and Cuba, their progress is inevitably accompanied by complaints, having more or less foundation, of searches, arrests, embargoes, and oppressive taxes upon the property of American residents, and of unprovoked interference with American vessels and commerce. It is due to the Government of Spain to say that during the past year it has promptly disavowed and offered reparation for any unauthorized acts of unduly zealous subordinates whenever such acts have been brought to its attention. Nevertheless, such occurrences can not but tend to excite feelings of annoyance, suspicion, and resentment. which are greatly to be deprecated, between the respective subjects and citizens of two friendly powers. Much delay (consequent upon accusations of fraud in some of the awards) has occurred in respect to the distribution of the limited amounts received from Venezuela under the treaty of April 25, 1866, applicable to the awards of the joint commission created by that treaty. So long as these matters are pending in Congress the Executive can not assume either to pass upon the questions presented or to distribute the fund received. It is eminently desirable that definite legislative action should be taken, either affirming the awards to be final or providing some method for reexamination of the claims. Our relations with the Republics of Central and South America and with the Empire of Brazil have continued without serious change, further than the temporary interruption of diplomatic intercourse with Venezuela and with Guatemala. Amicable relations have already been fully restored with Venezuela, and it is not doubted that all grounds of misunderstanding with Guatemala will speedily be removed. From all these countries there are favorable indications of a disposition on the part of their Governments and people to reciprocate our efforts in the direction of increased commercial intercourse. The Government of the Samoan Islands has sent an envoy, in the person of its secretary of state, to invite the Government of the United States to recognize and protect their independence, to establish commercial relations with their people, and to assist them in their steps toward regulated and responsible government. The inhabitants of these islands, having made considerable progress in Christian civilization and the development of trade, are doubtful of their ability to maintain peace and independence without the aid of some stronger power. The subject is deemed worthy of respectful attention, and the claims upon our assistance by this distant community will be carefully considered. The long commercial depression in the United States has directed attention to the subject of the possible increase of our foreign trade and the methods for its development, not only with Europe, but with other countries, and especially with the States and sovereignties of the Western Hemisphere. Instructions from the Department of State were issued to the various diplomatic and consular officers of the Government, asking them to devote attention to the question of methods by which trade between the respective countries of their official residence and the United States could be most judiciously fostered. In obedience to these instructions, examinations and reports upon this subject have been made by many of these officers and transmitted to the Department, and the same are submitted to the consideration of Congress. The annual report of the Secretary of the Treasury on the state of the finances presents important questions for the action of Congress, upon some of which I have already remarked. The revenues of the Government during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1877, were $269,000,586.62; the total expenditures for the same period were $238,660,008.93, leaving a surplus revenue of $30,340,577.69. This has substantially supplied the requirements of the sinking fund for that year. The estimated revenues of the current fiscal year are $265,500,000, and the estimated expenditures for the same period are $232,430,643.72. If these estimates prove to be correct, there will be a surplus revenue of $33,069,356.28--an amount nearly sufficient for the sinking fund for that year. The estimated revenues for the next fiscal year are $269,250,000. It appears from the report that during the last fiscal year the revenues of the Government, compared with the previous year, have largely decreased. This decrease, amounting to the sum of $18,481,452.54, was mainly in customs duties, caused partly by a large falling off of the amount of imported dutiable goods and partly by the general fall of prices in the markets of production of such articles as pay ad valorem taxes. While this is felt injuriously in the diminution of the revenue, it has been accompanied with a very large increase of exportations. The total exports during the last fiscal year, including coin, have been $658,637,457, and the imports have been $492,097,540, leaving a balance of trade in favor of the United States amounting to the sum of $166,539,917, the beneficial effects of which extend to all branches of business. The estimated revenue for the next fiscal year will impose upon Congress the duty of strictly limiting appropriations, including the requisite sum for the maintenance of the sinking fund, within the aggregate estimated receipts. While the aggregate of taxes should not be increased, amendments might be made to the revenue laws that would, without diminishing the revenue, relieve the people from unnecessary burdens. A tax on tea and coffee is shown by the experience not only of our own country, but of other countries, to be easily collected, without loss by undervaluation or fraud, and largely borne in the country of production. A tax of 10 cents a pound on tea and 2 cents a pound on coffee would produce a revenue exceeding $12,000,000, and thus enable Congress to repeal a multitude of annoying taxes yielding a revenue not exceeding that sum. The internal-revenue system grew out of the necessities of the war, and most of the legislation imposing taxes upon domestic products under this system has been repealed. By the substitution of a tax on tea and coffee all forms of internal taxation may be repealed, except that on whisky, spirits, tobacco, and beer. Attention is also called to the necessity of enacting more vigorous laws for the protection of the revenue and for the punishment of frauds and smuggling. This can best be done by judicious provisions that will induce the disclosure of attempted fraud by undervaluation and smuggling. All revenue laws should be simple in their provisions and easily understood. So far as practicable, the rates of taxation should be in the form of specific duties, and not ad valorem, requiring the judgment of experienced men to ascertain values and exposing the revenue to the temptation of fraud. My attention has been called during the recess of Congress to abuses existing in the collection of the customs, and strenuous efforts have been made for their correction by Executive orders. The recommendations submitted to the Secretary of the Treasury by a commission appointed to examine into the collection of customs duties at the port of New York contain many suggestions for the modification of the customs laws, to which the attention of Congress is invited. It is matter of congratulation that notwithstanding the severe burdens caused by the war the public faith with all creditors has been preserved, and that as the result of this policy the public credit has continuously advanced and our public securities are regarded with the highest favor in the markets of the world. I trust that no act of the Government will cast a shadow upon its credit. The progress of refunding the public debt has been rapid and satisfactory. Under the contract existing when I entered upon the discharge of the duties of my office, bonds bearing interest at the rate of 4 1/2 per cent were being rapidly sold, and within three months the aggregate sales of these bonds had reached the sum of $200,000,000. With my sanction the Secretary of the Treasury entered into a new contract for the sale of 4 per cent bonds, and within thirty days after the popular subscription for such bonds was opened subscriptions were had amounting to $75,496,550, which were paid for within ninety days after the date of subscription. By this process, within but little more than one year, the annual interest on the public debt was reduced in the sum of $3,775,000. I recommended that suitable provision be made to enable the people to easily convert their savings into Government securities, as the best mode in which small savings may be well secured and yield a moderate interest. It is an object of public policy to retain among our own people the securities of the United States. In this way our country is guarded against their sudden return from foreign countries, caused by war or other disturbances beyond our limits. The commerce of the United States with foreign nations, and especially the export of domestic productions, has of late years largely increased; but the greater portion of this trade is conducted in foreign vessels. The importance of enlarging our foreign trade, and especially by direct and speedy interchange with countries on this continent, can not be overestimated; and it is a matter of great moment that our own shipping interest should receive, to the utmost practical extent, the benefit of our commerce with other lands. These considerations are forcibly urged by all the large commercial cities of the country, and public attention is generally and wisely attracted to the solution of the problems they present. It is not doubted that Congress will take them up in the broadest spirit of liberality and respond to the public demand by practical legislation upon this important subject. The report of the Secretary of War shows that the Army has been actively employed during the year, and has rendered very important service in suppressing hostilities in the Indian country and in preserving peace and protecting life and property in the interior as well as along the Mexican border. A long and arduous campaign has been prosecuted, with final complete success, against a portion of the Nez Perce' tribe of Indians. A full account of this campaign will be found in the report of the General of the Army. It will be seen that in its course several severe battles were fought, in which a number of gallant officers and men lost their lives. I join with the Secretary of War and the General of the Army in awarding to the officers and men employed in the long and toilsome pursuit and in the final capture of these Indians the honor and praise which are so justly their due. The very serious riots which occurred in several of the States in July last rendered necessary the employment of a considerable portion of the Army to preserve the peace and maintain order. In the States of West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Illinois these disturbances were so formidable as to defy the local and State authorities, and the National Executive was called upon, in the mode provided by the Constitution and laws, to furnish military aid. I am gratified to be able to state that the troops sent in response to these calls for aid in the suppression of domestic violence were able, by the influence of their presence in the disturbed regions, to preserve the peace and restore order without the use of force. In the discharge of this delicate and important duty both officers and men acted with great prudence and courage, and for their services deserve the thanks of the country. Disturbances along the Rio Grande in Texas, to which I have already referred, have rendered necessary the constant employment of a military force in that vicinity. A full report of all recent military operations in that quarter has been transmitted to the House of Representatives in answer to a resolution of that body, and it will therefore not be necessary to enter into details. I regret to say that these lawless incursions into our territory by armed bands from the Mexican side of the line, for the purpose of robbery, have been of frequent occurrence, and in spite of the most vigilant efforts of the commander of our forces the marauders have generally succeeded in escaping into Mexico with their plunder. In May last I gave orders for the exercise of the utmost vigilance on the part of our troops for the suppression of these raids and the punishment of the guilty parties, as well as the recapture of property stolen by them. General Ord, commanding in Texas, was directed to invite the cooperation of the Mexican authorities in efforts to this end, and to assure them that I was anxious to avoid giving the least offense to Mexico. At the same time, he was directed to give notice of my determination to put an end to the invasion of our territory by lawless bands intent upon the plunder of our peaceful citizens, even if the effectual punishment of the outlaws should make the crossing of the border by our troops in their pursuit necessary. It is believed that this policy has had the effect to check somewhat these depredations, and that with a considerable increase of our force upon that frontier and the establishment of several additional military posts along the Rio Grande, so as more effectually to guard that extensive border, peace may be preserved and the lives and property of our citizens in Texas fully protected. Prior to the 1st day of July last the Army was, in accordance with law, reduced to the maximum of 25,000 enlisted men, being a reduction of 2,500 below the force previously authorized. This reduction was made, as required by law, entirely from the infantry and artillery branches of the service, without any reduction of the cavalry. Under the law as it now stands it is necessary that the cavalry regiments be recruited to 100 men in each company for service on the Mexican and Indian frontiers. The necessary effect of this legislation is to reduce the infantry and artillery arms of the service below the number required for efficiency, and I concur with the Secretary of War in recommending that authority be given to recruit all companies of infantry to at least 50 men and all batteries of artillery to at least 75 men, with the power, in case of emergency, to increase the former to 100 and the latter to 122 men each. I invite your special attention to the following recommendations of the Secretary of War: First. That provision be made for supplying to the Army a more abundant and better supply of reading matter. Second. That early action be taken by Congress looking to a complete revision and republication of the Army Regulations. Third. That section 1258 of the Revised Statutes, limiting the number of officers on the retired list, be repealed. Fourth. That the claims arising under the act of July 4, 1864, for supplies taken by the Army during the war, be taken from the offices of the Quartermaster and Commissary Generals and transferred to the Southern Claims Commission, or some other tribunal having more time and better facilities for their prompt investigation and decision than are possessed by these officers. Fifth. That Congress provide for an annuity fund for the families of deceased soldiers, as recommended by the paymaster-General of the Army. The report of the Secretary of the Navy shows that we have six squadrons now engaged in the protection of our foreign commerce and other duties pertaining to the naval service. The condition and operations of the Department are also shown. The total expenditures for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1877, were $16,077,974.54. There are unpaid claims against the Department chargeable to the last year, which are presented to the consideration of Congress by the report of the Secretary. The estimates for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 1878, are $16,233,234.40, exclusive of the sum of $2,314,231 submitted for new buildings, repairs, and improvements at the several navy-yards. The appropriations for the present fiscal year, commencing July 1, 1877, are $13,592,932.90. The amount drawn from the Treasury from July 1 to November 1, 1877, is $5,343,037.40, of which there is estimated to be yet available $1,029,528.30, showing the amount of actual expenditure during the first four months of the present fiscal year to have been $4,313,509.10. The report of the Postmaster-General contains a full and clear statement of the operations and condition of the Post-Office Department. The ordinary revenues of the Department for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1877, including receipts from the money-order business and from official stamps and stamped envelopes, amounted to the sum of $27,531,585.26. The additional sum of $7,013,000 was realized from appropriations from the general Treasury for various purposes, making the receipts from all sources $34,544,885.26. The total expenditures during the fiscal year amounted to $33,486,322.44, leaving an excess of total receipts over total expenditures of $1,058,562.82, and an excess of total expenditures over ordinary receipts of $5,954,737.18. Deducting from the total receipts the sum of $63,261.84, received from international money orders of the preceding fiscal year, and deducting from the total expenditures the sum of $1,163,818.20, paid on liabilities incurred in previous fiscal years, the expenditures and receipts appertaining to the business of the last fiscal year were as follows: The ordinary revenues of the Post-Office Department for the year ending June 30, 1879, are estimated at an increase of 3 per cent over those of 1877, making $29,034,098.28, and the expenditures for the same year are estimated at $36,427,771, leaving an estimated deficiency for the year 1879 of $7,393,672.72. The additional legislation recommended by the Postmaster-General for improvements of the mail service and to protect the postal revenues from the abuses practiced under existing laws is respectfully commended to the careful consideration of Congress. The report of the Attorney-General contains several suggestions as to the administration of justice, to which I invite your attention. The pressure of business in the Supreme Court and in certain circuit courts of the United States is now such that serious delays, to the great injury, and even oppression, of suitors, occur, and a remedy should be sought for this condition of affairs. Whether it will be found in the plan briefly sketched in the report, of increasing the number of judges of the circuit courts, and, by means of this addition to the judicial force, of creating an intermediate court of errors and appeals, or whether some other mode can be devised for obviating the difficulties which now exist, I leave to your mature consideration. The present condition of the Indian tribes in the territory of the United States and our relations with them are fully set forth in the reports of the Secretary of the Interior and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. After a series of most deplorable conflicts--the successful termination of which, while reflecting honor upon the brave soldiers who accomplished it, can not lessen our regret at their occurrence--we are now at peace with all the Indian tribes within our borders. To preserve that peace by a just and humane policy will be the object of my earnest endeavors. Whatever may be said of their character and savage propensities, of the difficulties of introducing among them the habits of civilized life, and of the obstacles they have offered to the progress of settlement and enterprise in certain parts of the country, the Indians are certainly entitled to our sympathy and to a conscientious respect on our part for their claims upon our sense of justice. They were the aboriginal occupants of the land we now possess. They have been driven from place to place. The purchase money paid to them in some cases for what they called their own has still left them poor. In many instances, when they had settled down upon land assigned to them by compact and begun to support themselves by their own labor, they were rudely jostled off and thrust into the wilderness again. Many, if not most, of our Indian wars have had their origin in broken promises and acts of injustice upon our part, and the advance of the Indians in civilization has been slow because the treatment they received did not permit it to be faster and more general. We can not expect them to improve and to follow our guidance unless we keep faith with them in respecting the rights they possess, and unless, instead of depriving them of their opportunities, we lend them a helping hand. I cordially approve the policy regarding the management of Indian affairs outlined in the reports of the Secretary of the Interior and of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. The faithful performance of our promises is the first condition of a good understanding with the Indians. I can not too urgently recommend to Congress that prompt and liberal provision be made for the conscientious fulfillment of all engagements entered into by the Government with the Indian tribes. To withhold the means necessary for the performance of a promise is always false economy, and is apt to prove disastrous in its consequences. Especial care is recommended to provide for Indians settled on their reservations cattle and agricultural implements, to aid them in whatever efforts they may make to support themselves, and by the establishment and maintenance of schools to bring them under the control of civilized influences. I see no reason why Indians who can give satisfactory proof of having by their own labor supported their families for a number of years, and who are willing to detach themselves from their tribal relations, should not be admitted to the benefit of the homestead act and the privileges of citizenship, and I recommend the passage of a law to that effect. It will be an act of justice as well as a measure of encouragement. Earnest efforts are being made to purify the Indian service, so that every dollar appropriated by Congress shall redound to the benefit of the Indians, as intended. Those efforts will have my firm support. With an improved service and every possible encouragement held out to the Indians to better their condition and to elevate themselves in the scale of civilization, we may hope to accomplish at the same time a good work for them and for ourselves. I invite the attention of Congress to the importance of the statements and suggestions made by the Secretary of the Interior concerning the depredations committed on the timber lands of the United States and the necessity for the preservation of forests. It is believed that the measures taken in pursuance of existing laws to arrest those depredations will be entirely successful if Congress, by an appropriation for that purpose, renders their continued enforcement possible. The experience of other nations teaches us that a country can not be stripped of its forests with impunity, and we shall expose ourselves to the gravest consequences unless the wasteful and improvident manner in which the forests in the United States are destroyed be effectually checked. I earnestly recommend that the measures suggested by the Secretary of the Interior for the suppression of depredations on the public timber lands of the United States, for the selling of timber from the public lands, and for the preservation of forests be embodied in a law, and that, considering the urgent necessity of enabling the people of certain States and Territories to purchase timber from the public lands in a legal manner, which at present they can not do, such a law be passed without unavoidable delay. I would also call the attention of Congress to the statements made by the Secretary of the Interior concerning the disposition that might be made of the desert lands, not irrigable, west of the one hundredth meridian. These lands are practically unsalable under existing laws, and the suggestion is worthy of consideration that a system of leasehold tenure would make them a source of profit to the United States, while at the same time legalizing the business of cattle raising which is at present carried on upon them. The report of the Commissioner of Agriculture contains the gratifying announcement of the extraordinary success which has rewarded the agricultural industry of the country for the past year. With the fair prices which obtain for the products of the soil, especially for the surplus which our people have to export, we may confidently turn to this as the most important of all our resources for the revival of the depressed industries of the country. The report shows our agricultural progress during the year, and contains a statement of the work done by this Department for the advancement of agricultural industry, upon which the prosperity of our people so largely depends. Matters of information are included of great interest to all who seek, by the experience of others, to improve their own methods of cultivation. The efforts of the Department to increase the production of important articles of consumption will, it is hoped, improve the demand for labor and advance the business of the country, and eventually result in saving some of the many millions that are now annually paid to foreign nations for sugar and other staple products which habitual use has made necessary in our domestic everyday life. The board on behalf of the United States Executive Departments at the International Exhibition of 1876 has concluded its labors. The final report of the board was transmitted to Congress by the President near the close of the last session. As these papers are understood to contain interesting and valuable information, and will constitute the only report emanating from the Government on the subject of the exhibition, I invite attention to the matter and recommend that the report be published for general information. Congress is empowered by the Constitution with the authority of exclusive legislation over the District of Columbia, in which the seat of Government of the nation is located. The interests of the District, having no direct representation in Congress, are entitled to especial consideration and care at the hands of the General Government. The capital of the United States belongs to the nation, and it is natural that the American people should take pride in the seat of their National Government and desire it to be an ornament to the country. Much has been done to render it healthful, convenient, and attractive, but much remains to be done, which its permanent inhabitants are not able and ought not to be expected to do. To impose upon them a large proportion of the cost required for public improvements, which are in a great measure planned and executed for the convenience of the Government and of the many thousands of visitors from all parts of the country who temporarily reside at the capital of the nation, is an evident injustice. Special attention is asked by the Commissioners of the District in their report, which is herewith transmitted, to the importance of a permanent adjustment by Congress of the financial relations between the United States and the District, involving the regular annual contribution by the United States of its just proportion of the expenses of the District government and of the outlay for all needed public improvements, and such measure of relief from the burden of taxation now resting upon the people of the District as in the wisdom of Congress may be deemed just. The report of the Commissioners shows that the affairs of the District are in a condition as satisfactory as could be expected in view of the heavy burden of debt resting upon it and its very limited means for necessary expenses. The debt of the District is as follows: The Commissioners also ask attention to the importance of the improvement of the Potomac River and the reclamation of the marshes bordering the city of Washington, and their views upon this subject are concurred in by the members of the board of health, whose report is also herewith transmitted. Both the commercial and sanitary interests of the District will be greatly promoted, I doubt not, by this improvement. Your attention is invited to the suggestion of the Commissioners and of the board of health for the organization of a board of charities, to have supervision and control of the disbursement of all moneys for charitable purposes from the District treasury. I desire also to ask your especial attention to the need of adding to the efficiency of the public schools of the District by supplemental aid from the National Treasury. This is especially just, since so large a number of those attending these schools are children of employees of the Government. I earnestly commend to your care the interests of the people of the District, who are so intimately associated with the Government establishments, and to whose enterprise the good order and attractiveness of the capital are largely due; and I ask your attention to the request of the Commissioners for legislation in behalf of the interests intrusted to their care. The appropriations asked for the care of the reservations belonging to the Government within the city, by the Commissioner of Public Buildings and Grounds, are also commended to your favorable consideration. The report of the joint commission created by the act approved 2d of August, 1876, entitled "An act providing for the completion of the Washington Monument," is also herewith transmitted, with accompanying documents. The board of engineer officers detailed to examine the monument, in compliance with the second section of the act, have reported that the foundation is insufficient. No authority exists for making the expenditure necessary to secure its stability. I therefore recommend that the commission be authorized to expend such portion of the sum appropriated by the act as may be necessary for the purpose. The present unfinished condition of the monument, begun so long ago, is a reproach to the nation. It can not be doubted that the patriotic sense of the country will warmly respond to such prompt provision as may be made for its completion at an early day, and I urge upon Congress the propriety and necessity of immediate legislation for this purpose. The wisdom of legislation upon the part of Congress, in aid of the States, for the education of the whole people in those branches of study which are taught in the common schools of the country is no longer a question. The intelligent judgment of the country goes still further, regarding it as also both constitutional and expedient for the General Government to extend to technical and higher education such aid as is deemed essential to the general welfare and to our due prominence among the enlightened and cultured nations of the world. The ultimate settlement of all questions of the future, whether of administration or finance or of true nationality of sentiment, depends upon the virtue and intelligence of the people. It is vain to hope for the success of a free government without the means of insuring the intelligence of those who are the source of power. No less than one-seventh of the entire voting population of our country are yet unable to read and write. It is encouraging to observe, in connection with the growth of fraternal feeling in those States in which slavery formerly existed, evidences of increasing interest in universal education, and I shall be glad to give my approval to any appropriate measures which may be enacted by Congress for the purpose of supplementing with national aid the local systems of education in those States and in all the States; and, having already invited your attention to the needs of the District of Columbia with respect to its public-school system, I here add that I believe it desirable, not so much with reference to the local wants of the District, but to the great and lasting benefit of the entire country, that this system should be crowned with a university in all respects in keeping with the national capital, and thereby realize the cherished hopes of Washington on this subject. I also earnestly commend the request of the Regents of the Smithsonian Institution that an adequate appropriation be made for the establishment and conduct of a national museum under their supervision. The question of providing for the preservation and growth of the Library of Congress is also one of national importance. As the depository of all copyright publications and records, this library has outgrown the provisions for its accommodation; and the erection, on such site as the judgment of Congress may approve, of a fireproof library building, to preserve the treasures and enlarge the usefulness of this valuable collection, is recommended. I recommend also such legislation as will render available and efficient for the purposes of instruction, so far as is consistent with the public service, the cabinets or museums of invention, of surgery, of education, and of agriculture, and other collections the property of the National Government. The capital of the nation should be something more than a mere political center. We should avail ourselves of all the opportunities which Providence has here placed at our command to promote the general intelligence of the people and increase the conditions most favorable to the success and perpetuity of our institutions.
with devout gratitude to the bountiful giver of all good i congratulate you that at the beginning of your first regular session you find our country blessed with health and peace and abundant harvests and with encouraging prospects of an early return of general prosperity to complete and make permanent the pacification of the country continues to be and until it is fully accomplished must remain the most important of all our national interests the earnest purpose of good citizens generally to unite their efforts in this endeavor is evident it found decided expression in the resolutions announced in 1876 by the national conventions of the leading political parties of the country there was a widespread apprehension that the momentous results in our progress as a nation marked by the recent amendments to the constitution were in imminent jeopardy that the good understanding which prompted their adoption in the interest of a loyal devotion to the general welfare might prove a barren truce and that the two sections of the country once engaged in civil strife might be again almost as widely severed and disunited as they were when arrayed in arms against each other the course to be pursued which in my judgment seemed wisest in the presence of this emergency was plainly indicated in my inaugural address it pointed to the time which all our people desire to see when a genuine love of our whole country and of all that concerns its true welfare shall supplant the destructive forces of the mutual animosity of races and of sectional hostility opinions have differed widely as to the measures best calculated to secure this great end this was to be expected the measures adopted by the administration have been subjected to severe and varied criticism any course whatever which might have been entered upon would certainly have encountered distrust and opposition these measures were in my judgment such as were most in harmony with the constitution and with the genius of our people and best adapted under all the circumstances to attain the end in view beneficent results already apparent prove that these endeavors are not to be regarded as a mere experiment and should sustain and encourage us in our efforts already in the brief period which has elapsed the immediate effectiveness no less than the justice of the course pursued is demonstrated and i have an abiding faith that time will furnish its ample vindication in the minds of the great majority of my the discontinuance of the use of the army for the purpose of upholding local governments in two states of the union was no less a constitutional duty and requirement under the circumstances existing at the time than it was a measure for the restoration of local and the promotion of national harmony the withdrawal of the troops from such employment was effected deliberately and with solicitous care for the peace and good order of society and the protection of the property and persons and every right of all classes of citizens the results that have followed are indeed significant and encouraging all apprehension of danger from remitting those states to local is dispelled and a most salutary change in the minds of the people has begun and is in progress in every part of that section of the country once the theater of unhappy civil strife substituting for suspicion distrust and aversion concord friendship and patriotic attachment to the union no unprejudiced mind will deny that the terrible and often fatal collisions which for several years have been of frequent occurrence and have agitated and alarmed the public mind have almost entirely ceased and that a spirit of mutual forbearance and hearty national interest has succeeded there has been a general reestablishment of order and of the orderly administration of justice instances of remaining lawlessness have become of rare occurrence political turmoil and turbulence have disappeared useful industries have been resumed public credit in the southern states has been greatly strengthened and the encouraging benefits of a revival of commerce between the sections of the country lately embroiled in civil war are fully enjoyed such are some of the results already attained upon which the country is to be congratulated they are of such importance that we may with confidence patiently await the desired consummation that will surely come with the natural progress of events it may not be improper here to say that it should be our fixed and unalterable determination to protect by all available and proper means under the constitution and the laws the lately emancipated race in the enjoyment of their rights and privileges and i urge upon those to whom heretofore the colored people have sustained the relation of bondmen the wisdom and justice of humane and liberal local legislation with respect to their education and general welfare a firm adherence to the laws both national and state as to the civil and political rights of the colored people now advanced to full and equal citizenship the immediate repression and sure punishment by the national and local authorities within their respective jurisdictions of every instance of lawlessness and violence toward them is required for the security alike of both races and is justly demanded by the public opinion of the country and the age in this way the restoration of harmony and good will and the complete protection of every citizen in the full enjoyment of every constitutional right will surely be attained whatever authority rests with me to this end i shall not hesitate to put forth whatever belongs to the power of congress and the jurisdiction of the courts of the union they may confidently be relied upon to provide and perform and to the legislatures the courts and the executive authorities of the several states i earnestly appeal to secure by adequate appropriate and seasonable means within their borders these common and uniform rights of a united people which loves liberty abhors oppression and reveres justice these objects are very dear to my heart i shall continue most earnestly to strive for their attainment the cordial cooperation of all classes of all sections of the country and of both races is required for this purpose and with these blessings assured and not otherwise we may safely hope to hand down our free institutions of government unimpaired to the generations that will succeed us among the other subjects of great and general importance to the people of this country i can not be mistaken i think in regarding as preeminent the policy and measures which are designed to secure the restoration of the currency to that normal and healthful condition in which by the resumption of specie payments our internal trade and foreign commerce may be brought into harmony with the system of exchanges which is based upon the precious metals as the intrinsic money of the world in the public judgment that this end should be sought and compassed as speedily and securely as the resources of the people and the wisdom of their government can accomplish there is a much greater degree of unanimity than is found to concur in the specific measures which will bring the country to this desired end or the rapidity of the steps by which it can be safely reached upon a most anxious and deliberate examination which i have felt it my duty to give to the subject i am but the more confirmed in the opinion which i expressed in accepting the nomination for the presidency and again upon my inauguration that the policy of resumption should be pursued by every suitable means and that no legislation would be wise that should disparage the importance or retard the attainment of that result i have no disposition and certainly no right to question the sincerity or the intelligence of opposing opinions and would neither conceal nor undervalue the considerable difficulties and even occasional distresses which may attend the progress of the nation toward this primary condition to its general and permanent prosperity i must however adhere to my most earnest conviction that any wavering in purpose or unsteadiness in methods so far from avoiding or reducing the inconvenience inseparable from the transition from an irredeemable to a redeemable paper currency would only tend to increased and prolonged disturbance in values and unless retrieved must end in serious disorder dishonor and disaster in the financial affairs of the government and of the people the mischiefs which i apprehend and urgently deprecate are confined to no class of the people indeed but seem to me most certainly to threaten the industrious masses whether their occupations are of skilled or common labor to them it seems to me it is of prime importance that their labor should be compensated in money which is itself fixed in exchangeable value by being irrevocably measured by the labor necessary to its production this permanent quality of the money of the people is sought for and can only be gained by the resumption of specie payments the rich the speculative the operating the classes may not always feel the mischiefs of or may find casual profits in a variable currency but the misfortunes of such a currency to those who are paid salaries or wages are inevitable and remediless closely connected with this general subject of the resumption of specie payments is one of subordinate but still of grave importance i mean the readjustment of our coinage system by the renewal of the silver dollar as an element in our specie currency endowed by legislation with the quality of legal tender to a greater or less extent as there is no doubt of the power of congress under the constitution to coin money and regulate the value thereof and as this power covers the whole range of authority applicable to the metal the rated value and the quality which shall be adopted for the coinage the considerations which should induce or discourage a particular measure connected with the coinage belong clearly to the province of legislative discretion and of public expediency without intruding upon this province of legislation in the least i have yet thought the subject of such critical importance in the actual condition of our affairs as to present an occasion for the exercise of the duty imposed by the constitution on the president of recommending to the consideration of congress such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient holding the opinion as i do that neither the interests of the government nor of the people of the united states would be promoted by disparaging silver as one of the two precious metals which furnish the coinage of the world and that legislation which looks to maintaining the volume of intrinsic money to as full a measure of both metals as their relative commercial values will permit would be neither unjust nor inexpedient i must ask your indulgence to a brief and definite statement of certain essential features in any such legislative measure which i feel it my duty to recommend i do not propose to enter the debate represented on both sides by such able disputants in congress and before the people and in the press as to the extent to which the legislation of any one nation can control this question even within its own borders against the unwritten laws of trade or the positive laws of other governments the wisdom of congress in shaping any particular law that may be presented for my approval may wholly supersede the necessity of my entering into these considerations and i willingly avoid either vague or intricate inquiries it is only certain plain and practical traits of such legislation that i desire to recommend to your attention in any legislation providing for a silver coinage regulating its value and imparting to it the quality of legal tender it seems to me of great importance that congress should not lose sight of its action as operating in a twofold capacity and in two distinct directions if the united states government were free from a public debt its legislative dealing with the question of silver coinage would be purely sovereign and governmental under no restraints but those of constitutional power and the public good as affected by the proposed legislation but in the actual circumstances of the nation with a vast public debt distributed very widely among our own citizens and held in great amounts also abroad the nature of the measure as affecting this relation of the government to the holders of the public debt becomes an element in any proposed legislation of the highest concern the obligation of the public faith transcends all questions of profit or public advantage otherwise its unquestionable maintenance is the dictate as well of the highest expediency as of the most necessary duty and will ever be carefully guarded by congress and people alike the public debt of the united states to the amount of bears interest at the rate of 6 per cent and at the rate of 5 per cent and the only way in which the country can be relieved from the payment of these high rates of interest is by advantageously refunding the indebtedness whether the debt is ultimately paid in gold or in silver coin is of but little moment compared with the possible reduction of interest by refunding it at such reduced rate if the united states had the unquestioned right to pay its bonds in silver coin the little benefit from that process would be greatly overbalanced by the injurious effect of such payment if made or proposed against the honest convictions of the public creditors all the bonds that have been issued since february 12 1873 when gold became the only unlimited metallic currency of the country are justly payable in gold coin or in coin of equal value during the time of these issues the only dollar that could be or was received by the government in exchange for bonds was the gold dollar to require the public creditors to take in repayment any dollar of less commercial value would be regarded by them as a repudiation of the full obligation assumed the bonds issued prior to 1873 were issued at a time when the gold dollar was the only coin in circulation or contemplated by either the government or the holders of the bonds as the coin in which they were to be paid it is far better to pay these bonds in that coin than to seem to take advantage of the unforeseen fall in silver bullion to pay in a new issue of silver coin thus made so much less valuable the power of the united states to coin money and to regulate the value thereof ought never to be exercised for the purpose of enabling the government to pay its obligations in a coin of less value than that contemplated by the parties when the bonds were issued any attempt to pay the national indebtedness in a coinage of less commercial value than the money of the world would involve a violation of the public faith and work irreparable injury to the public credit it was the great merit of the act of march 1869 in strengthening the public credit that it removed all doubt as to the purpose of the united states to pay their bonded debt in coin that act was accepted as a pledge of public faith the government has derived great benefit from it in the progress thus far made in refunding the public debt at low rates of interest an adherence to the wise and just policy of an exact observance of the public faith will enable the government rapidly to reduce the burden of interest on the national debt to an amount exceeding per annum and effect an aggregate saving to the united states of more than before the bonds can be fully paid in adapting the new silver coinage to the ordinary uses of currency in the everyday transactions of life and prescribing the quality of legal tender to be assigned to it a consideration of the first importance should be so to adjust the ratio between the silver and the gold coinage which now constitutes our specie currency as to accomplish the desired end of maintaining the circulation of the two metallic currencies and keeping up the volume of the two precious metals as our intrinsic money it is a mixed question for scientific reasoning and historical experience to determine how far and by what methods a practical equilibrium can be maintained which will keep both metals in circulation in their appropriate spheres of common use an absolute equality of commercial value free from disturbing fluctuations is hardly attainable and without it an unlimited legal tender for private transactions assigned to both metals would irresistibly tend to drive out of circulation the clearer coinage and disappoint the principal object proposed by the legislation in view i apprehend therefore that the two conditions of a near approach to equality of commercial value between the gold and silver coinage of the same denomination and of a limitation of the amounts for which the silver coinage is to be a legal tender are essential to maintaining both in circulation if these conditions can be successfully observed the issue from the mint of silver dollars would afford material assistance to the community in the transition to redeemable paper money and would facilitate the resumption of specie payment and its permanent establishment without these conditions i fear that only mischief and misfortune would flow from a coinage of silver dollars with the quality of unlimited legal tender even in private transactions any expectation of temporary ease from an issue of silver coinage to pass as a legal tender at a rate materially above its commercial value is i am persuaded a delusion nor can i think that there is any substantial distinction between an original issue of silver dollars at a nominal value materially above their commercial value and the restoration of the silver dollar at a rate which once was but has ceased to be its commercial value certainly the issue of our gold coinage reduced in weight materially below its value would not be any the less a present debasement of the coinage by reason of its equaling or even exceeding in weight a gold coinage which at some past time had been commercially equal to the value assigned to the new issue in recommending that the regulation of any silver coinage which may be authorized by congress should observe these conditions of commercial value and limited legal tender i am governed by the feeling that every possible increase should be given to the volume of metallic money which can be kept in circulation and thereby every possible aid afforded to the people in the process of resuming specie payments it is because of my firm conviction that a disregard of these conditions would frustrate the good results which are desired from the proposed coinage and embarrass with new elements of confusion and uncertainty the business of the country that i urge upon your attention these considerations i respectfully recommend to congress that in any legislation providing for a silver coinage and imparting to it the quality of legal tender there be impressed upon the measure a firm provision exempting the public debt heretofore issued and now outstanding from payment either of principal or interest in any coinage of less commercial value than the present gold coinage of the country the organization of the civil service of the country has for a number of years attracted more and more of the public attention so general has become the opinion that the methods of admission to it and the conditions of remaining in it are unsound that both the great political parties have agreed in the most explicit declarations of the necessity of reform and in the most emphatic demands for it i have fully believed these declarations and demands to be the expression of a sincere conviction of the intelligent masses of the people upon the subject and that they should be recognized and followed by earnest and prompt action on the part of the legislative and executive departments of the government in pursuance of the purpose indicated before my accession to office i endeavored to have my own views distinctly understood and upon my inauguration my accord with the public opinion was stated in terms believed to be plain and unambiguous my experience in the executive duties has strongly confirmed the belief in the great advantage the country would find in observing strictly the plan of the constitution which imposes upon the executive the sole duty and responsibility of the selection of those federal officers who by law are appointed not elected and which in like manner assigns to the senate the complete right to advise and consent to or to reject the nominations so made whilst the house of representatives stands as the public censor of the performance of official duties with the prerogative of investigation and prosecution in all cases of dereliction the blemishes and imperfections in the civil service may as i think be traced in most cases to a practical confusion of the duties assigned to the several departments of the government my purpose in this respect has been to return to the system established by the fundamental law and to do this with the heartiest cooperation and most cordial understanding with the senate and house of representatives the practical difficulties in the selection of numerous officers for posts of widely varying responsibilities and duties are acknowledged to be very great no system can be expected to secure absolute freedom from mistakes and the beginning of any attempted change of custom is quite likely to be more embarrassed in this respect than any subsequent period it is here that the constitution seems to me to prove its claim to the great wisdom accorded to it it gives to the executive the assistance of the knowledge and experience of the senate which when acting upon nominations as to which they may be disinterested and impartial judges secures as strong a guaranty of freedom from errors of importance as is perhaps possible in human affairs in addition to this i recognize the public advantage of making all nominations as nearly as possible impersonal in the sense of being free from mere caprice or favor in the selection and in those offices in which special training is of greatly increased value i believe such a rule as to the tenure of office should obtain as may induce men of proper qualifications to apply themselves industriously to the task of becoming proficients bearing these things in mind i have endeavored to reduce the number of changes in subordinate places usually made upon the change of the general administration and shall most heartily cooperate with congress in the better systematizing of such methods and rules of admission to the public service and of promotion within it as may promise to be most successful in making thorough competency efficiency and character the decisive tests in these matters i ask the renewed attention of congress to what has already been done by the civil service commission appointed in pursuance of an act of congress by my predecessor to prepare and revise rules in regard to much of the departmental service especially at washington it may be difficult to organize a better system than that which has thus been provided and it is now being used to a considerable extent under my direction the commission has still a legal existence although for several years no appropriation has been made for defraying its expenses believing that this commission has rendered valuable service and will be a most useful agency in improving the administration of the civil service i respectfully recommend that a suitable appropriation to be immediately available be made to enable it to continue its labors it is my purpose to transmit to congress as early as practicable a report by the chairman of the commission and to ask your attention to such measures on this subject as in my opinion will further promote the improvement of the civil service during the past year the united states have continued to maintain peaceful relations with foreign powers the outbreak of war between russia and turkey though at one time attended by grave apprehension as to its effect upon other european nations has had no tendency to disturb the amicable relations existing between the united states and each of the two contending powers an attitude of just and impartial neutrality has been preserved and i am gratified to state that in the midst of their hostilities both the russian and the turkish governments have shown an earnest disposition to adhere to the obligations of all treaties with the united states and to give due regard to the rights of american citizens by the terms of the treaty defining the rights immunities and privileges of consuls between italy and the united states ratified in 1868 either government may after the lapse of ten years terminate the existence of the treaty by giving twelve months notice of its intention the government of italy availing itself of this faculty has now given the required notice and the treaty will accordingly end on the 17th of september 1878 it is understood however that the italian government wishes to renew it in its general scope desiring only certain modifications in some of its articles in this disposition i concur and shall hope that no serious obstacles may intervene to prevent or delay the negotiation of a satisfactory treaty numerous questions in regard to passports naturalization and exemption from military service have continued to arise in cases of emigrants from germany who have returned to their native country the provisions of the treaty of february 22 1868 however have proved to be so ample and so judicious that the legation of the united states at berlin has been able to adjust all claims arising under it not only without detriment to the amicable relations existing between the two governments but it is believed without injury or injustice to any duly naturalized american citizen it is desirable that the treaty originally made with the north german union in 1868 should now be extended so as to apply equally to all the states of the empire of germany the invitation of the government of france to participate in the exposition of the products of agriculture industry and the fine arts to be held at paris during the coming year was submitted for your consideration at the extra session it is not doubted that its acceptance by the united states and a exhibition of the products of american industry on that occasion will tend to stimulate international commerce and emigration as well as to promote the traditional friendship between the two countries a question arose some time since as to the proper meaning of the extradition articles of the treaty of 1842 between the united states and great britain both governments however are now in accord in the belief that the question is not one that should be allowed to frustrate the ends of justice or to disturb the friendship between the two nations no serious difficulty has arisen in accomplishing the extradition of criminals when necessary it is probable that all points of disagreement will in due time be settled and if need be more explicit declarations be made in a new treaty the fishery commission under articles xviii to xxv of the treaty of washington has concluded its session at halifax the result of the deliberations of the commission as made public by the commissioners will be communicated to congress a treaty for the protection of has been negotiated with great britain which has been submitted to the senate for its consideration the revolution which recently occurred in mexico was followed by the accession of the successful party to power and the installation of its chief general porfirio diaz in the presidential office it has been the custom of the united states when such changes of government have heretofore occurred in mexico to recognize and enter into official relations with the de facto government as soon as it should appear to have the approval of the mexican people and should manifest a disposition to adhere to the obligations of treaties and international friendship in the present case such official recognition has been deferred by the occurrences on the rio grande border the records of which have been already communicated to each house of congress in answer to their respective resolutions of inquiry assurances have been received that the authorities at the seat of the mexican government have both the disposition and the power to prevent and punish such unlawful invasions and depredations it is earnestly to be hoped that events may prove these assurances to be well rounded the best interests of both countries require the maintenance of peace upon the border and the development of commerce between the two republics it is gratifying to add that this temporary interruption of official relations has not prevented due attention by the representatives of the united states in mexico to the protection of american citizens so far as practicable nor has it interfered with the prompt payment of the amounts due from mexico to the united states under the treaty of july 4 1868 and the awards of the joint commission while i do not anticipate an interruption of friendly relations with mexico yet i can not but look with some solicitude upon a continuance of border disorders as exposing the two countries to initiations of popular feeling and mischances of action which are naturally unfavorable to complete amity firmly determined that nothing shall be wanting on my part to promote a good understanding between the two nations i yet must ask the attention of congress to the actual occurrences on the border that the lives and property of our citizens may be adequately protected and peace preserved another year has passed without bringing to a close the protracted contest between the spanish government and the insurrection in the island of cuba while the united states have sedulously abstained from any intervention in this contest it is impossible not to feel that it is attended with incidents affecting the rights and interests of american citizens apart from the effect of the hostilities upon trade between the united states and cuba their progress is inevitably accompanied by complaints having more or less foundation of searches arrests embargoes and oppressive taxes upon the property of american residents and of unprovoked interference with american vessels and commerce it is due to the government of spain to say that during the past year it has promptly disavowed and offered reparation for any unauthorized acts of unduly zealous subordinates whenever such acts have been brought to its attention nevertheless such occurrences can not but tend to excite feelings of annoyance suspicion and resentment which are greatly to be deprecated between the respective subjects and citizens of two friendly powers much delay consequent upon accusations of fraud in some of the awards has occurred in respect to the distribution of the limited amounts received from venezuela under the treaty of april 25 1866 applicable to the awards of the joint commission created by that treaty so long as these matters are pending in congress the executive can not assume either to pass upon the questions presented or to distribute the fund received it is eminently desirable that definite legislative action should be taken either affirming the awards to be final or providing some method for reexamination of the claims our relations with the republics of central and south america and with the empire of brazil have continued without serious change further than the temporary interruption of diplomatic intercourse with venezuela and with guatemala amicable relations have already been fully restored with venezuela and it is not doubted that all grounds of misunderstanding with guatemala will speedily be removed from all these countries there are favorable indications of a disposition on the part of their governments and people to reciprocate our efforts in the direction of increased commercial intercourse the government of the samoan islands has sent an envoy in the person of its secretary of state to invite the government of the united states to recognize and protect their independence to establish commercial relations with their people and to assist them in their steps toward regulated and responsible government the inhabitants of these islands having made considerable progress in christian civilization and the development of trade are doubtful of their ability to maintain peace and independence without the aid of some stronger power the subject is deemed worthy of respectful attention and the claims upon our assistance by this distant community will be carefully considered the long commercial depression in the united states has directed attention to the subject of the possible increase of our foreign trade and the methods for its development not only with europe but with other countries and especially with the states and sovereignties of the western hemisphere instructions from the department of state were issued to the various diplomatic and consular officers of the government asking them to devote attention to the question of methods by which trade between the respective countries of their official residence and the united states could be most judiciously fostered in obedience to these instructions examinations and reports upon this subject have been made by many of these officers and transmitted to the department and the same are submitted to the consideration of congress the annual report of the secretary of the treasury on the state of the finances presents important questions for the action of congress upon some of which i have already remarked the revenues of the government during the fiscal year ending june 30 1877 were the total expenditures for the same period were leaving a surplus revenue of this has substantially supplied the requirements of the sinking fund for that year the estimated revenues of the current fiscal year are and the estimated expenditures for the same period are if these estimates prove to be correct there will be a surplus revenue of an amount nearly sufficient for the sinking fund for that year the estimated revenues for the next fiscal year are it appears from the report that during the last fiscal year the revenues of the government compared with the previous year have largely decreased this decrease amounting to the sum of was mainly in customs duties caused partly by a large falling off of the amount of imported dutiable goods and partly by the general fall of prices in the markets of production of such articles as pay ad valorem taxes while this is felt injuriously in the diminution of the revenue it has been accompanied with a very large increase of exportations the total exports during the last fiscal year including coin have been and the imports have been leaving a balance of trade in favor of the united states amounting to the sum of the beneficial effects of which extend to all branches of business the estimated revenue for the next fiscal year will impose upon congress the duty of strictly limiting appropriations including the requisite sum for the maintenance of the sinking fund within the aggregate estimated receipts while the aggregate of taxes should not be increased amendments might be made to the revenue laws that would without diminishing the revenue relieve the people from unnecessary burdens a tax on tea and coffee is shown by the experience not only of our own country but of other countries to be easily collected without loss by undervaluation or fraud and largely borne in the country of production a tax of 10 cents a pound on tea and 2 cents a pound on coffee would produce a revenue exceeding and thus enable congress to repeal a multitude of annoying taxes yielding a revenue not exceeding that sum the system grew out of the necessities of the war and most of the legislation imposing taxes upon domestic products under this system has been repealed by the substitution of a tax on tea and coffee all forms of internal taxation may be repealed except that on whisky spirits tobacco and beer attention is also called to the necessity of enacting more vigorous laws for the protection of the revenue and for the punishment of frauds and smuggling this can best be done by judicious provisions that will induce the disclosure of attempted fraud by undervaluation and smuggling all revenue laws should be simple in their provisions and easily understood so far as practicable the rates of taxation should be in the form of specific duties and not ad valorem requiring the judgment of experienced men to ascertain values and exposing the revenue to the temptation of fraud my attention has been called during the recess of congress to abuses existing in the collection of the customs and strenuous efforts have been made for their correction by executive orders the recommendations submitted to the secretary of the treasury by a commission appointed to examine into the collection of customs duties at the port of new york contain many suggestions for the modification of the customs laws to which the attention of congress is invited it is matter of congratulation that notwithstanding the severe burdens caused by the war the public faith with all creditors has been preserved and that as the result of this policy the public credit has continuously advanced and our public securities are regarded with the highest favor in the markets of the world i trust that no act of the government will cast a shadow upon its credit the progress of refunding the public debt has been rapid and satisfactory under the contract existing when i entered upon the discharge of the duties of my office bonds bearing interest at the rate of 4 per cent were being rapidly sold and within three months the aggregate sales of these bonds had reached the sum of with my sanction the secretary of the treasury entered into a new contract for the sale of 4 per cent bonds and within thirty days after the popular subscription for such bonds was opened subscriptions were had amounting to which were paid for within ninety days after the date of subscription by this process within but little more than one year the annual interest on the public debt was reduced in the sum of i recommended that suitable provision be made to enable the people to easily convert their savings into government securities as the best mode in which small savings may be well secured and yield a moderate interest it is an object of public policy to retain among our own people the securities of the united states in this way our country is guarded against their sudden return from foreign countries caused by war or other disturbances beyond our limits the commerce of the united states with foreign nations and especially the export of domestic productions has of late years largely increased but the greater portion of this trade is conducted in foreign vessels the importance of enlarging our foreign trade and especially by direct and speedy interchange with countries on this continent can not be overestimated and it is a matter of great moment that our own shipping interest should receive to the utmost practical extent the benefit of our commerce with other lands these considerations are forcibly urged by all the large commercial cities of the country and public attention is generally and wisely attracted to the solution of the problems they present it is not doubted that congress will take them up in the broadest spirit of liberality and respond to the public demand by practical legislation upon this important subject the report of the secretary of war shows that the army has been actively employed during the year and has rendered very important service in suppressing hostilities in the indian country and in preserving peace and protecting life and property in the interior as well as along the mexican border a long and arduous campaign has been prosecuted with final complete success against a portion of the nez perce tribe of indians a full account of this campaign will be found in the report of the general of the army it will be seen that in its course several severe battles were fought in which a number of gallant officers and men lost their lives i join with the secretary of war and the general of the army in awarding to the officers and men employed in the long and toilsome pursuit and in the final capture of these indians the honor and praise which are so justly their due the very serious riots which occurred in several of the states in july last rendered necessary the employment of a considerable portion of the army to preserve the peace and maintain order in the states of west virginia maryland pennsylvania and illinois these disturbances were so formidable as to defy the local and state authorities and the national executive was called upon in the mode provided by the constitution and laws to furnish military aid i am gratified to be able to state that the troops sent in response to these calls for aid in the suppression of domestic violence were able by the influence of their presence in the disturbed regions to preserve the peace and restore order without the use of force in the discharge of this delicate and important duty both officers and men acted with great prudence and courage and for their services deserve the thanks of the country disturbances along the rio grande in texas to which i have already referred have rendered necessary the constant employment of a military force in that vicinity a full report of all recent military operations in that quarter has been transmitted to the house of representatives in answer to a resolution of that body and it will therefore not be necessary to enter into details i regret to say that these lawless incursions into our territory by armed bands from the mexican side of the line for the purpose of robbery have been of frequent occurrence and in spite of the most vigilant efforts of the commander of our forces the marauders have generally succeeded in escaping into mexico with their plunder in may last i gave orders for the exercise of the utmost vigilance on the part of our troops for the suppression of these raids and the punishment of the guilty parties as well as the recapture of property stolen by them general ord commanding in texas was directed to invite the cooperation of the mexican authorities in efforts to this end and to assure them that i was anxious to avoid giving the least offense to mexico at the same time he was directed to give notice of my determination to put an end to the invasion of our territory by lawless bands intent upon the plunder of our peaceful citizens even if the effectual punishment of the outlaws should make the crossing of the border by our troops in their pursuit necessary it is believed that this policy has had the effect to check somewhat these depredations and that with a considerable increase of our force upon that frontier and the establishment of several additional military posts along the rio grande so as more effectually to guard that extensive border peace may be preserved and the lives and property of our citizens in texas fully protected prior to the 1st day of july last the army was in accordance with law reduced to the maximum of enlisted men being a reduction of below the force previously authorized this reduction was made as required by law entirely from the infantry and artillery branches of the service without any reduction of the cavalry under the law as it now stands it is necessary that the cavalry regiments be recruited to 100 men in each company for service on the mexican and indian frontiers the necessary effect of this legislation is to reduce the infantry and artillery arms of the service below the number required for efficiency and i concur with the secretary of war in recommending that authority be given to recruit all companies of infantry to at least 50 men and all batteries of artillery to at least 75 men with the power in case of emergency to increase the former to 100 and the latter to 122 men each i invite your special attention to the following recommendations of the secretary of war first that provision be made for supplying to the army a more abundant and better supply of reading matter second that early action be taken by congress looking to a complete revision and republication of the army regulations third that section 1258 of the revised statutes limiting the number of officers on the retired list be repealed fourth that the claims arising under the act of july 4 1864 for supplies taken by the army during the war be taken from the offices of the quartermaster and commissary generals and transferred to the southern claims commission or some other tribunal having more time and better facilities for their prompt investigation and decision than are possessed by these officers fifth that congress provide for an annuity fund for the families of deceased soldiers as recommended by the of the army the report of the secretary of the navy shows that we have six squadrons now engaged in the protection of our foreign commerce and other duties pertaining to the naval service the condition and operations of the department are also shown the total expenditures for the fiscal year ending june 30 1877 were there are unpaid claims against the department chargeable to the last year which are presented to the consideration of congress by the report of the secretary the estimates for the fiscal year commencing july 1 1878 are exclusive of the sum of submitted for new buildings repairs and improvements at the several the appropriations for the present fiscal year commencing july 1 1877 are the amount drawn from the treasury from july 1 to november 1 1877 is of which there is estimated to be yet available showing the amount of actual expenditure during the first four months of the present fiscal year to have been the report of the contains a full and clear statement of the operations and condition of the department the ordinary revenues of the department for the fiscal year ending june 30 1877 including receipts from the business and from official stamps and stamped envelopes amounted to the sum of the additional sum of was realized from appropriations from the general treasury for various purposes making the receipts from all sources the total expenditures during the fiscal year amounted to leaving an excess of total receipts over total expenditures of and an excess of total expenditures over ordinary receipts of deducting from the total receipts the sum of received from international money orders of the preceding fiscal year and deducting from the total expenditures the sum of paid on liabilities incurred in previous fiscal years the expenditures and receipts appertaining to the business of the last fiscal year were as follows the ordinary revenues of the department for the year ending june 30 1879 are estimated at an increase of 3 per cent over those of 1877 making and the expenditures for the same year are estimated at leaving an estimated deficiency for the year 1879 of the additional legislation recommended by the for improvements of the mail service and to protect the postal revenues from the abuses practiced under existing laws is respectfully commended to the careful consideration of congress the report of the contains several suggestions as to the administration of justice to which i invite your attention the pressure of business in the supreme court and in certain circuit courts of the united states is now such that serious delays to the great injury and even oppression of suitors occur and a remedy should be sought for this condition of affairs whether it will be found in the plan briefly sketched in the report of increasing the number of judges of the circuit courts and by means of this addition to the judicial force of creating an intermediate court of errors and appeals or whether some other mode can be devised for obviating the difficulties which now exist i leave to your mature consideration the present condition of the indian tribes in the territory of the united states and our relations with them are fully set forth in the reports of the secretary of the interior and the commissioner of indian affairs after a series of most deplorable conflicts the successful termination of which while reflecting honor upon the brave soldiers who accomplished it can not lessen our regret at their occurrence we are now at peace with all the indian tribes within our borders to preserve that peace by a just and humane policy will be the object of my earnest endeavors whatever may be said of their character and savage propensities of the difficulties of introducing among them the habits of civilized life and of the obstacles they have offered to the progress of settlement and enterprise in certain parts of the country the indians are certainly entitled to our sympathy and to a conscientious respect on our part for their claims upon our sense of justice they were the aboriginal occupants of the land we now possess they have been driven from place to place the purchase money paid to them in some cases for what they called their own has still left them poor in many instances when they had settled down upon land assigned to them by compact and begun to support themselves by their own labor they were rudely jostled off and thrust into the wilderness again many if not most of our indian wars have had their origin in broken promises and acts of injustice upon our part and the advance of the indians in civilization has been slow because the treatment they received did not permit it to be faster and more general we can not expect them to improve and to follow our guidance unless we keep faith with them in respecting the rights they possess and unless instead of depriving them of their opportunities we lend them a helping hand i cordially approve the policy regarding the management of indian affairs outlined in the reports of the secretary of the interior and of the commissioner of indian affairs the faithful performance of our promises is the first condition of a good understanding with the indians i can not too urgently recommend to congress that prompt and liberal provision be made for the conscientious fulfillment of all engagements entered into by the government with the indian tribes to withhold the means necessary for the performance of a promise is always false economy and is apt to prove disastrous in its consequences especial care is recommended to provide for indians settled on their reservations cattle and agricultural implements to aid them in whatever efforts they may make to support themselves and by the establishment and maintenance of schools to bring them under the control of civilized influences i see no reason why indians who can give satisfactory proof of having by their own labor supported their families for a number of years and who are willing to detach themselves from their tribal relations should not be admitted to the benefit of the homestead act and the privileges of citizenship and i recommend the passage of a law to that effect it will be an act of justice as well as a measure of encouragement earnest efforts are being made to purify the indian service so that every dollar appropriated by congress shall redound to the benefit of the indians as intended those efforts will have my firm support with an improved service and every possible encouragement held out to the indians to better their condition and to elevate themselves in the scale of civilization we may hope to accomplish at the same time a good work for them and for ourselves i invite the attention of congress to the importance of the statements and suggestions made by the secretary of the interior concerning the depredations committed on the timber lands of the united states and the necessity for the preservation of forests it is believed that the measures taken in pursuance of existing laws to arrest those depredations will be entirely successful if congress by an appropriation for that purpose renders their continued enforcement possible the experience of other nations teaches us that a country can not be stripped of its forests with impunity and we shall expose ourselves to the gravest consequences unless the wasteful and improvident manner in which the forests in the united states are destroyed be effectually checked i earnestly recommend that the measures suggested by the secretary of the interior for the suppression of depredations on the public timber lands of the united states for the selling of timber from the public lands and for the preservation of forests be embodied in a law and that considering the urgent necessity of enabling the people of certain states and territories to purchase timber from the public lands in a legal manner which at present they can not do such a law be passed without unavoidable delay i would also call the attention of congress to the statements made by the secretary of the interior concerning the disposition that might be made of the desert lands not irrigable west of the one hundredth meridian these lands are practically unsalable under existing laws and the suggestion is worthy of consideration that a system of leasehold tenure would make them a source of profit to the united states while at the same time legalizing the business of cattle raising which is at present carried on upon them the report of the commissioner of agriculture contains the gratifying announcement of the extraordinary success which has rewarded the agricultural industry of the country for the past year with the fair prices which obtain for the products of the soil especially for the surplus which our people have to export we may confidently turn to this as the most important of all our resources for the revival of the depressed industries of the country the report shows our agricultural progress during the year and contains a statement of the work done by this department for the advancement of agricultural industry upon which the prosperity of our people so largely depends matters of information are included of great interest to all who seek by the experience of others to improve their own methods of cultivation the efforts of the department to increase the production of important articles of consumption will it is hoped improve the demand for labor and advance the business of the country and eventually result in saving some of the many millions that are now annually paid to foreign nations for sugar and other staple products which habitual use has made necessary in our domestic everyday life the board on behalf of the united states executive departments at the international exhibition of 1876 has concluded its labors the final report of the board was transmitted to congress by the president near the close of the last session as these papers are understood to contain interesting and valuable information and will constitute the only report emanating from the government on the subject of the exhibition i invite attention to the matter and recommend that the report be published for general information congress is empowered by the constitution with the authority of exclusive legislation over the district of columbia in which the seat of government of the nation is located the interests of the district having no direct representation in congress are entitled to especial consideration and care at the hands of the general government the capital of the united states belongs to the nation and it is natural that the american people should take pride in the seat of their national government and desire it to be an ornament to the country much has been done to render it healthful convenient and attractive but much remains to be done which its permanent inhabitants are not able and ought not to be expected to do to impose upon them a large proportion of the cost required for public improvements which are in a great measure planned and executed for the convenience of the government and of the many thousands of visitors from all parts of the country who temporarily reside at the capital of the nation is an evident injustice special attention is asked by the commissioners of the district in their report which is herewith transmitted to the importance of a permanent adjustment by congress of the financial relations between the united states and the district involving the regular annual contribution by the united states of its just proportion of the expenses of the district government and of the outlay for all needed public improvements and such measure of relief from the burden of taxation now resting upon the people of the district as in the wisdom of congress may be deemed just the report of the commissioners shows that the affairs of the district are in a condition as satisfactory as could be expected in view of the heavy burden of debt resting upon it and its very limited means for necessary expenses the debt of the district is as follows the commissioners also ask attention to the importance of the improvement of the potomac river and the reclamation of the marshes bordering the city of washington and their views upon this subject are concurred in by the members of the board of health whose report is also herewith transmitted both the commercial and sanitary interests of the district will be greatly promoted i doubt not by this improvement your attention is invited to the suggestion of the commissioners and of the board of health for the organization of a board of charities to have supervision and control of the disbursement of all moneys for charitable purposes from the district treasury i desire also to ask your especial attention to the need of adding to the efficiency of the public schools of the district by supplemental aid from the national treasury this is especially just since so large a number of those attending these schools are children of employees of the government i earnestly commend to your care the interests of the people of the district who are so intimately associated with the government establishments and to whose enterprise the good order and attractiveness of the capital are largely due and i ask your attention to the request of the commissioners for legislation in behalf of the interests intrusted to their care the appropriations asked for the care of the reservations belonging to the government within the city by the commissioner of public buildings and grounds are also commended to your favorable consideration the report of the joint commission created by the act approved 2d of august 1876 entitled an act providing for the completion of the washington monument is also herewith transmitted with accompanying documents the board of engineer officers detailed to examine the monument in compliance with the second section of the act have reported that the foundation is insufficient no authority exists for making the expenditure necessary to secure its stability i therefore recommend that the commission be authorized to expend such portion of the sum appropriated by the act as may be necessary for the purpose the present unfinished condition of the monument begun so long ago is a reproach to the nation it can not be doubted that the patriotic sense of the country will warmly respond to such prompt provision as may be made for its completion at an early day and i urge upon congress the propriety and necessity of immediate legislation for this purpose the wisdom of legislation upon the part of congress in aid of the states for the education of the whole people in those branches of study which are taught in the common schools of the country is no longer a question the intelligent judgment of the country goes still further regarding it as also both constitutional and expedient for the general government to extend to technical and higher education such aid as is deemed essential to the general welfare and to our due prominence among the enlightened and cultured nations of the world the ultimate settlement of all questions of the future whether of administration or finance or of true nationality of sentiment depends upon the virtue and intelligence of the people it is vain to hope for the success of a free government without the means of insuring the intelligence of those who are the source of power no less than of the entire voting population of our country are yet unable to read and write it is encouraging to observe in connection with the growth of fraternal feeling in those states in which slavery formerly existed evidences of increasing interest in universal education and i shall be glad to give my approval to any appropriate measures which may be enacted by congress for the purpose of supplementing with national aid the local systems of education in those states and in all the states and having already invited your attention to the needs of the district of columbia with respect to its system i here add that i believe it desirable not so much with reference to the local wants of the district but to the great and lasting benefit of the entire country that this system should be crowned with a university in all respects in keeping with the national capital and thereby realize the cherished hopes of washington on this subject i also earnestly commend the request of the regents of the smithsonian institution that an adequate appropriation be made for the establishment and conduct of a national museum under their supervision the question of providing for the preservation and growth of the library of congress is also one of national importance as the depository of all copyright publications and records this library has outgrown the provisions for its accommodation and the erection on such site as the judgment of congress may approve of a fireproof library building to preserve the treasures and enlarge the usefulness of this valuable collection is recommended i recommend also such legislation as will render available and efficient for the purposes of instruction so far as is consistent with the public service the cabinets or museums of invention of surgery of education and of agriculture and other collections the property of the national government the capital of the nation should be something more than a mere political center we should avail ourselves of all the opportunities which providence has here placed at our command to promote the general intelligence of the people and increase the conditions most favorable to the success and perpetuity of our institutions
devout gratitude bountiful giver good congratulate beginning first regular session find country blessed health peace abundant harvests encouraging prospects early return general prosperity complete make permanent pacification country continues fully accomplished must remain important national interests earnest purpose good citizens generally unite efforts endeavor evident found decided expression resolutions announced 1876 national conventions leading political parties country widespread apprehension momentous results progress nation marked recent amendments constitution imminent jeopardy good understanding prompted adoption interest loyal devotion general welfare might prove barren truce two sections country engaged civil strife might almost widely severed disunited arrayed arms course pursued judgment seemed wisest presence emergency plainly indicated inaugural address pointed time people desire see genuine love whole country concerns true welfare shall supplant destructive forces mutual animosity races sectional hostility opinions differed widely measures best calculated secure great end expected measures adopted administration subjected severe varied criticism course whatever might entered upon would certainly encountered distrust opposition measures judgment harmony constitution genius people best adapted circumstances attain end view beneficent results already apparent prove endeavors regarded mere experiment sustain encourage us efforts already brief period elapsed immediate effectiveness less justice course pursued demonstrated abiding faith time furnish ample vindication minds great majority discontinuance use army purpose upholding local governments two states union less constitutional duty requirement circumstances existing time measure restoration local promotion national harmony withdrawal troops employment effected deliberately solicitous care peace good order society protection property persons every right classes citizens results followed indeed significant encouraging apprehension danger remitting states local dispelled salutary change minds people begun progress every part section country theater unhappy civil strife substituting suspicion distrust aversion concord friendship patriotic attachment union unprejudiced mind deny terrible often fatal collisions several years frequent occurrence agitated alarmed public mind almost entirely ceased spirit mutual forbearance hearty national interest succeeded general reestablishment order orderly administration justice instances remaining lawlessness become rare occurrence political turmoil turbulence disappeared useful industries resumed public credit southern states greatly strengthened encouraging benefits revival commerce sections country lately embroiled civil war fully enjoyed results already attained upon country congratulated importance may confidence patiently await desired consummation surely come natural progress events may improper say fixed unalterable determination protect available proper means constitution laws lately emancipated race enjoyment rights privileges urge upon heretofore colored people sustained relation bondmen wisdom justice humane liberal local legislation respect education general welfare firm adherence laws national state civil political rights colored people advanced full equal citizenship immediate repression sure punishment national local authorities within respective jurisdictions every instance lawlessness violence toward required security alike races justly demanded public opinion country age way restoration harmony good complete protection every citizen full enjoyment every constitutional right surely attained whatever authority rests end shall hesitate put forth whatever belongs power congress jurisdiction courts union may confidently relied upon provide perform legislatures courts executive authorities several states earnestly appeal secure adequate appropriate seasonable means within borders common uniform rights united people loves liberty abhors oppression reveres justice objects dear heart shall continue earnestly strive attainment cordial cooperation classes sections country races required purpose blessings assured otherwise may safely hope hand free institutions government unimpaired generations succeed us among subjects great general importance people country mistaken think regarding preeminent policy measures designed secure restoration currency normal healthful condition resumption specie payments internal trade foreign commerce may brought harmony system exchanges based upon precious metals intrinsic money world public judgment end sought compassed speedily securely resources people wisdom government accomplish much greater degree unanimity found concur specific measures bring country desired end rapidity steps safely reached upon anxious deliberate examination felt duty give subject confirmed opinion expressed accepting nomination presidency upon inauguration policy resumption pursued every suitable means legislation would wise disparage importance retard attainment result disposition certainly right question sincerity intelligence opposing opinions would neither conceal undervalue considerable difficulties even occasional distresses may attend progress nation toward primary condition general permanent prosperity must however adhere earnest conviction wavering purpose unsteadiness methods far avoiding reducing inconvenience inseparable transition irredeemable redeemable paper currency would tend increased prolonged disturbance values unless retrieved must end serious disorder dishonor disaster financial affairs government people mischiefs apprehend urgently deprecate confined class people indeed seem certainly threaten industrious masses whether occupations skilled common labor seems prime importance labor compensated money fixed exchangeable value irrevocably measured labor necessary production permanent quality money people sought gained resumption specie payments rich speculative operating classes may always feel mischiefs may find casual profits variable currency misfortunes currency paid salaries wages inevitable remediless closely connected general subject resumption specie payments one subordinate still grave importance mean readjustment coinage system renewal silver dollar element specie currency endowed legislation quality legal tender greater less extent doubt power congress constitution coin money regulate value thereof power covers whole range authority applicable metal rated value quality shall adopted coinage considerations induce discourage particular measure connected coinage belong clearly province legislative discretion public expediency without intruding upon province legislation least yet thought subject critical importance actual condition affairs present occasion exercise duty imposed constitution president recommending consideration congress measures shall judge necessary expedient holding opinion neither interests government people united states would promoted disparaging silver one two precious metals furnish coinage world legislation looks maintaining volume intrinsic money full measure metals relative commercial values permit would neither unjust inexpedient must ask indulgence brief definite statement certain essential features legislative measure feel duty recommend propose enter debate represented sides able disputants congress people press extent legislation one nation control question even within borders unwritten laws trade positive laws governments wisdom congress shaping particular law may presented approval may wholly supersede necessity entering considerations willingly avoid either vague intricate inquiries certain plain practical traits legislation desire recommend attention legislation providing silver coinage regulating value imparting quality legal tender seems great importance congress lose sight action operating twofold capacity two distinct directions united states government free public debt legislative dealing question silver coinage would purely sovereign governmental restraints constitutional power public good affected proposed legislation actual circumstances nation vast public debt distributed widely among citizens held great amounts also abroad nature measure affecting relation government holders public debt becomes element proposed legislation highest concern obligation public faith transcends questions profit public advantage otherwise unquestionable maintenance dictate well highest expediency necessary duty ever carefully guarded congress people alike public debt united states amount bears interest rate 6 per cent rate 5 per cent way country relieved payment high rates interest advantageously refunding indebtedness whether debt ultimately paid gold silver coin little moment compared possible reduction interest refunding reduced rate united states unquestioned right pay bonds silver coin little benefit process would greatly overbalanced injurious effect payment made proposed honest convictions public creditors bonds issued since february 12 1873 gold became unlimited metallic currency country justly payable gold coin coin equal value time issues dollar could received government exchange bonds gold dollar require public creditors take repayment dollar less commercial value would regarded repudiation full obligation assumed bonds issued prior 1873 issued time gold dollar coin circulation contemplated either government holders bonds coin paid far better pay bonds coin seem take advantage unforeseen fall silver bullion pay new issue silver coin thus made much less valuable power united states coin money regulate value thereof ought never exercised purpose enabling government pay obligations coin less value contemplated parties bonds issued attempt pay national indebtedness coinage less commercial value money world would involve violation public faith work irreparable injury public credit great merit act march 1869 strengthening public credit removed doubt purpose united states pay bonded debt coin act accepted pledge public faith government derived great benefit progress thus far made refunding public debt low rates interest adherence wise policy exact observance public faith enable government rapidly reduce burden interest national debt amount exceeding per annum effect aggregate saving united states bonds fully paid adapting new silver coinage ordinary uses currency everyday transactions life prescribing quality legal tender assigned consideration first importance adjust ratio silver gold coinage constitutes specie currency accomplish desired end maintaining circulation two metallic currencies keeping volume two precious metals intrinsic money mixed question scientific reasoning historical experience determine far methods practical equilibrium maintained keep metals circulation appropriate spheres common use absolute equality commercial value free disturbing fluctuations hardly attainable without unlimited legal tender private transactions assigned metals would irresistibly tend drive circulation clearer coinage disappoint principal object proposed legislation view apprehend therefore two conditions near approach equality commercial value gold silver coinage denomination limitation amounts silver coinage legal tender essential maintaining circulation conditions successfully observed issue mint silver dollars would afford material assistance community transition redeemable paper money would facilitate resumption specie payment permanent establishment without conditions fear mischief misfortune would flow coinage silver dollars quality unlimited legal tender even private transactions expectation temporary ease issue silver coinage pass legal tender rate materially commercial value persuaded delusion think substantial distinction original issue silver dollars nominal value materially commercial value restoration silver dollar rate ceased commercial value certainly issue gold coinage reduced weight materially value would less present debasement coinage reason equaling even exceeding weight gold coinage past time commercially equal value assigned new issue recommending regulation silver coinage may authorized congress observe conditions commercial value limited legal tender governed feeling every possible increase given volume metallic money kept circulation thereby every possible aid afforded people process resuming specie payments firm conviction disregard conditions would frustrate good results desired proposed coinage embarrass new elements confusion uncertainty business country urge upon attention considerations respectfully recommend congress legislation providing silver coinage imparting quality legal tender impressed upon measure firm provision exempting public debt heretofore issued outstanding payment either principal interest coinage less commercial value present gold coinage country organization civil service country number years attracted public attention general become opinion methods admission conditions remaining unsound great political parties agreed explicit declarations necessity reform emphatic demands fully believed declarations demands expression sincere conviction intelligent masses people upon subject recognized followed earnest prompt action part legislative executive departments government pursuance purpose indicated accession office endeavored views distinctly understood upon inauguration accord public opinion stated terms believed plain unambiguous experience executive duties strongly confirmed belief great advantage country would find observing strictly plan constitution imposes upon executive sole duty responsibility selection federal officers law appointed elected like manner assigns senate complete right advise consent reject nominations made whilst house representatives stands public censor performance official duties prerogative investigation prosecution cases dereliction blemishes imperfections civil service may think traced cases practical confusion duties assigned several departments government purpose respect return system established fundamental law heartiest cooperation cordial understanding senate house representatives practical difficulties selection numerous officers posts widely varying responsibilities duties acknowledged great system expected secure absolute freedom mistakes beginning attempted change custom quite likely embarrassed respect subsequent period constitution seems prove claim great wisdom accorded gives executive assistance knowledge experience senate acting upon nominations may disinterested impartial judges secures strong guaranty freedom errors importance perhaps possible human affairs addition recognize public advantage making nominations nearly possible impersonal sense free mere caprice favor selection offices special training greatly increased value believe rule tenure office obtain may induce men proper qualifications apply industriously task becoming proficients bearing things mind endeavored reduce number changes subordinate places usually made upon change general administration shall heartily cooperate congress better systematizing methods rules admission public service promotion within may promise successful making thorough competency efficiency character decisive tests matters ask renewed attention congress already done civil service commission appointed pursuance act congress predecessor prepare revise rules regard much departmental service especially washington may difficult organize better system thus provided used considerable extent direction commission still legal existence although several years appropriation made defraying expenses believing commission rendered valuable service useful agency improving administration civil service respectfully recommend suitable appropriation immediately available made enable continue labors purpose transmit congress early practicable report chairman commission ask attention measures subject opinion promote improvement civil service past year united states continued maintain peaceful relations foreign powers outbreak war russia turkey though one time attended grave apprehension effect upon european nations tendency disturb amicable relations existing united states two contending powers attitude impartial neutrality preserved gratified state midst hostilities russian turkish governments shown earnest disposition adhere obligations treaties united states give due regard rights american citizens terms treaty defining rights immunities privileges consuls italy united states ratified 1868 either government may lapse ten years terminate existence treaty giving twelve months notice intention government italy availing faculty given required notice treaty accordingly end 17th september 1878 understood however italian government wishes renew general scope desiring certain modifications articles disposition concur shall hope serious obstacles may intervene prevent delay negotiation satisfactory treaty numerous questions regard passports naturalization exemption military service continued arise cases emigrants germany returned native country provisions treaty february 22 1868 however proved ample judicious legation united states berlin able adjust claims arising without detriment amicable relations existing two governments believed without injury injustice duly naturalized american citizen desirable treaty originally made north german union 1868 extended apply equally states empire germany invitation government france participate exposition products agriculture industry fine arts held paris coming year submitted consideration extra session doubted acceptance united states exhibition products american industry occasion tend stimulate international commerce emigration well promote traditional friendship two countries question arose time since proper meaning extradition articles treaty 1842 united states great britain governments however accord belief question one allowed frustrate ends justice disturb friendship two nations serious difficulty arisen accomplishing extradition criminals necessary probable points disagreement due time settled need explicit declarations made new treaty fishery commission articles xviii xxv treaty washington concluded session halifax result deliberations commission made public commissioners communicated congress treaty protection negotiated great britain submitted senate consideration revolution recently occurred mexico followed accession successful party power installation chief general porfirio diaz presidential office custom united states changes government heretofore occurred mexico recognize enter official relations de facto government soon appear approval mexican people manifest disposition adhere obligations treaties international friendship present case official recognition deferred occurrences rio grande border records already communicated house congress answer respective resolutions inquiry assurances received authorities seat mexican government disposition power prevent punish unlawful invasions depredations earnestly hoped events may prove assurances well rounded best interests countries require maintenance peace upon border development commerce two republics gratifying add temporary interruption official relations prevented due attention representatives united states mexico protection american citizens far practicable interfered prompt payment amounts due mexico united states treaty july 4 1868 awards joint commission anticipate interruption friendly relations mexico yet look solicitude upon continuance border disorders exposing two countries initiations popular feeling mischances action naturally unfavorable complete amity firmly determined nothing shall wanting part promote good understanding two nations yet must ask attention congress actual occurrences border lives property citizens may adequately protected peace preserved another year passed without bringing close protracted contest spanish government insurrection island cuba united states sedulously abstained intervention contest impossible feel attended incidents affecting rights interests american citizens apart effect hostilities upon trade united states cuba progress inevitably accompanied complaints less foundation searches arrests embargoes oppressive taxes upon property american residents unprovoked interference american vessels commerce due government spain say past year promptly disavowed offered reparation unauthorized acts unduly zealous subordinates whenever acts brought attention nevertheless occurrences tend excite feelings annoyance suspicion resentment greatly deprecated respective subjects citizens two friendly powers much delay consequent upon accusations fraud awards occurred respect distribution limited amounts received venezuela treaty april 25 1866 applicable awards joint commission created treaty long matters pending congress executive assume either pass upon questions presented distribute fund received eminently desirable definite legislative action taken either affirming awards final providing method reexamination claims relations republics central south america empire brazil continued without serious change temporary interruption diplomatic intercourse venezuela guatemala amicable relations already fully restored venezuela doubted grounds misunderstanding guatemala speedily removed countries favorable indications disposition part governments people reciprocate efforts direction increased commercial intercourse government samoan islands sent envoy person secretary state invite government united states recognize protect independence establish commercial relations people assist steps toward regulated responsible government inhabitants islands made considerable progress christian civilization development trade doubtful ability maintain peace independence without aid stronger power subject deemed worthy respectful attention claims upon assistance distant community carefully considered long commercial depression united states directed attention subject possible increase foreign trade methods development europe countries especially states sovereignties western hemisphere instructions department state issued various diplomatic consular officers government asking devote attention question methods trade respective countries official residence united states could judiciously fostered obedience instructions examinations reports upon subject made many officers transmitted department submitted consideration congress annual report secretary treasury state finances presents important questions action congress upon already remarked revenues government fiscal year ending june 30 1877 total expenditures period leaving surplus revenue substantially supplied requirements sinking fund year estimated revenues current fiscal year estimated expenditures period estimates prove correct surplus revenue amount nearly sufficient sinking fund year estimated revenues next fiscal year appears report last fiscal year revenues government compared previous year largely decreased decrease amounting sum mainly customs duties caused partly large falling amount imported dutiable goods partly general fall prices markets production articles pay ad valorem taxes felt injuriously diminution revenue accompanied large increase exportations total exports last fiscal year including coin imports leaving balance trade favor united states amounting sum beneficial effects extend branches business estimated revenue next fiscal year impose upon congress duty strictly limiting appropriations including requisite sum maintenance sinking fund within aggregate estimated receipts aggregate taxes increased amendments might made revenue laws would without diminishing revenue relieve people unnecessary burdens tax tea coffee shown experience country countries easily collected without loss undervaluation fraud largely borne country production tax 10 cents pound tea 2 cents pound coffee would produce revenue exceeding thus enable congress repeal multitude annoying taxes yielding revenue exceeding sum system grew necessities war legislation imposing taxes upon domestic products system repealed substitution tax tea coffee forms internal taxation may repealed except whisky spirits tobacco beer attention also called necessity enacting vigorous laws protection revenue punishment frauds smuggling best done judicious provisions induce disclosure attempted fraud undervaluation smuggling revenue laws simple provisions easily understood far practicable rates taxation form specific duties ad valorem requiring judgment experienced men ascertain values exposing revenue temptation fraud attention called recess congress abuses existing collection customs strenuous efforts made correction executive orders recommendations submitted secretary treasury commission appointed examine collection customs duties port new york contain many suggestions modification customs laws attention congress invited matter congratulation notwithstanding severe burdens caused war public faith creditors preserved result policy public credit continuously advanced public securities regarded highest favor markets world trust act government cast shadow upon credit progress refunding public debt rapid satisfactory contract existing entered upon discharge duties office bonds bearing interest rate 4 per cent rapidly sold within three months aggregate sales bonds reached sum sanction secretary treasury entered new contract sale 4 per cent bonds within thirty days popular subscription bonds opened subscriptions amounting paid within ninety days date subscription process within little one year annual interest public debt reduced sum recommended suitable provision made enable people easily convert savings government securities best mode small savings may well secured yield moderate interest object public policy retain among people securities united states way country guarded sudden return foreign countries caused war disturbances beyond limits commerce united states foreign nations especially export domestic productions late years largely increased greater portion trade conducted foreign vessels importance enlarging foreign trade especially direct speedy interchange countries continent overestimated matter great moment shipping interest receive utmost practical extent benefit commerce lands considerations forcibly urged large commercial cities country public attention generally wisely attracted solution problems present doubted congress take broadest spirit liberality respond public demand practical legislation upon important subject report secretary war shows army actively employed year rendered important service suppressing hostilities indian country preserving peace protecting life property interior well along mexican border long arduous campaign prosecuted final complete success portion nez perce tribe indians full account campaign found report general army seen course several severe battles fought number gallant officers men lost lives join secretary war general army awarding officers men employed long toilsome pursuit final capture indians honor praise justly due serious riots occurred several states july last rendered necessary employment considerable portion army preserve peace maintain order states west virginia maryland pennsylvania illinois disturbances formidable defy local state authorities national executive called upon mode provided constitution laws furnish military aid gratified able state troops sent response calls aid suppression domestic violence able influence presence disturbed regions preserve peace restore order without use force discharge delicate important duty officers men acted great prudence courage services deserve thanks country disturbances along rio grande texas already referred rendered necessary constant employment military force vicinity full report recent military operations quarter transmitted house representatives answer resolution body therefore necessary enter details regret say lawless incursions territory armed bands mexican side line purpose robbery frequent occurrence spite vigilant efforts commander forces marauders generally succeeded escaping mexico plunder may last gave orders exercise utmost vigilance part troops suppression raids punishment guilty parties well recapture property stolen general ord commanding texas directed invite cooperation mexican authorities efforts end assure anxious avoid giving least offense mexico time directed give notice determination put end invasion territory lawless bands intent upon plunder peaceful citizens even effectual punishment outlaws make crossing border troops pursuit necessary believed policy effect check somewhat depredations considerable increase force upon frontier establishment several additional military posts along rio grande effectually guard extensive border peace may preserved lives property citizens texas fully protected prior 1st day july last army accordance law reduced maximum enlisted men reduction force previously authorized reduction made required law entirely infantry artillery branches service without reduction cavalry law stands necessary cavalry regiments recruited 100 men company service mexican indian frontiers necessary effect legislation reduce infantry artillery arms service number required efficiency concur secretary war recommending authority given recruit companies infantry least 50 men batteries artillery least 75 men power case emergency increase former 100 latter 122 men invite special attention following recommendations secretary war first provision made supplying army abundant better supply reading matter second early action taken congress looking complete revision republication army regulations third section 1258 revised statutes limiting number officers retired list repealed fourth claims arising act july 4 1864 supplies taken army war taken offices quartermaster commissary generals transferred southern claims commission tribunal time better facilities prompt investigation decision possessed officers fifth congress provide annuity fund families deceased soldiers recommended army report secretary navy shows six squadrons engaged protection foreign commerce duties pertaining naval service condition operations department also shown total expenditures fiscal year ending june 30 1877 unpaid claims department chargeable last year presented consideration congress report secretary estimates fiscal year commencing july 1 1878 exclusive sum submitted new buildings repairs improvements several appropriations present fiscal year commencing july 1 1877 amount drawn treasury july 1 november 1 1877 estimated yet available showing amount actual expenditure first four months present fiscal year report contains full clear statement operations condition department ordinary revenues department fiscal year ending june 30 1877 including receipts business official stamps stamped envelopes amounted sum additional sum realized appropriations general treasury various purposes making receipts sources total expenditures fiscal year amounted leaving excess total receipts total expenditures excess total expenditures ordinary receipts deducting total receipts sum received international money orders preceding fiscal year deducting total expenditures sum paid liabilities incurred previous fiscal years expenditures receipts appertaining business last fiscal year follows ordinary revenues department year ending june 30 1879 estimated increase 3 per cent 1877 making expenditures year estimated leaving estimated deficiency year 1879 additional legislation recommended improvements mail service protect postal revenues abuses practiced existing laws respectfully commended careful consideration congress report contains several suggestions administration justice invite attention pressure business supreme court certain circuit courts united states serious delays great injury even oppression suitors occur remedy sought condition affairs whether found plan briefly sketched report increasing number judges circuit courts means addition judicial force creating intermediate court errors appeals whether mode devised obviating difficulties exist leave mature consideration present condition indian tribes territory united states relations fully set forth reports secretary interior commissioner indian affairs series deplorable conflicts successful termination reflecting honor upon brave soldiers accomplished lessen regret occurrence peace indian tribes within borders preserve peace humane policy object earnest endeavors whatever may said character savage propensities difficulties introducing among habits civilized life obstacles offered progress settlement enterprise certain parts country indians certainly entitled sympathy conscientious respect part claims upon sense justice aboriginal occupants land possess driven place place purchase money paid cases called still left poor many instances settled upon land assigned compact begun support labor rudely jostled thrust wilderness many indian wars origin broken promises acts injustice upon part advance indians civilization slow treatment received permit faster general expect improve follow guidance unless keep faith respecting rights possess unless instead depriving opportunities lend helping hand cordially approve policy regarding management indian affairs outlined reports secretary interior commissioner indian affairs faithful performance promises first condition good understanding indians urgently recommend congress prompt liberal provision made conscientious fulfillment engagements entered government indian tribes withhold means necessary performance promise always false economy apt prove disastrous consequences especial care recommended provide indians settled reservations cattle agricultural implements aid whatever efforts may make support establishment maintenance schools bring control civilized influences see reason indians give satisfactory proof labor supported families number years willing detach tribal relations admitted benefit homestead act privileges citizenship recommend passage law effect act justice well measure encouragement earnest efforts made purify indian service every dollar appropriated congress shall redound benefit indians intended efforts firm support improved service every possible encouragement held indians better condition elevate scale civilization may hope accomplish time good work invite attention congress importance statements suggestions made secretary interior concerning depredations committed timber lands united states necessity preservation forests believed measures taken pursuance existing laws arrest depredations entirely successful congress appropriation purpose renders continued enforcement possible experience nations teaches us country stripped forests impunity shall expose gravest consequences unless wasteful improvident manner forests united states destroyed effectually checked earnestly recommend measures suggested secretary interior suppression depredations public timber lands united states selling timber public lands preservation forests embodied law considering urgent necessity enabling people certain states territories purchase timber public lands legal manner present law passed without unavoidable delay would also call attention congress statements made secretary interior concerning disposition might made desert lands irrigable west one hundredth meridian lands practically unsalable existing laws suggestion worthy consideration system leasehold tenure would make source profit united states time legalizing business cattle raising present carried upon report commissioner agriculture contains gratifying announcement extraordinary success rewarded agricultural industry country past year fair prices obtain products soil especially surplus people export may confidently turn important resources revival depressed industries country report shows agricultural progress year contains statement work done department advancement agricultural industry upon prosperity people largely depends matters information included great interest seek experience others improve methods cultivation efforts department increase production important articles consumption hoped improve demand labor advance business country eventually result saving many millions annually paid foreign nations sugar staple products habitual use made necessary domestic everyday life board behalf united states executive departments international exhibition 1876 concluded labors final report board transmitted congress president near close last session papers understood contain interesting valuable information constitute report emanating government subject exhibition invite attention matter recommend report published general information congress empowered constitution authority exclusive legislation district columbia seat government nation located interests district direct representation congress entitled especial consideration care hands general government capital united states belongs nation natural american people take pride seat national government desire ornament country much done render healthful convenient attractive much remains done permanent inhabitants able ought expected impose upon large proportion cost required public improvements great measure planned executed convenience government many thousands visitors parts country temporarily reside capital nation evident injustice special attention asked commissioners district report herewith transmitted importance permanent adjustment congress financial relations united states district involving regular annual contribution united states proportion expenses district government outlay needed public improvements measure relief burden taxation resting upon people district wisdom congress may deemed report commissioners shows affairs district condition satisfactory could expected view heavy burden debt resting upon limited means necessary expenses debt district follows commissioners also ask attention importance improvement potomac river reclamation marshes bordering city washington views upon subject concurred members board health whose report also herewith transmitted commercial sanitary interests district greatly promoted doubt improvement attention invited suggestion commissioners board health organization board charities supervision control disbursement moneys charitable purposes district treasury desire also ask especial attention need adding efficiency public schools district supplemental aid national treasury especially since large number attending schools children employees government earnestly commend care interests people district intimately associated government establishments whose enterprise good order attractiveness capital largely due ask attention request commissioners legislation behalf interests intrusted care appropriations asked care reservations belonging government within city commissioner public buildings grounds also commended favorable consideration report joint commission created act approved 2d august 1876 entitled act providing completion washington monument also herewith transmitted accompanying documents board engineer officers detailed examine monument compliance second section act reported foundation insufficient authority exists making expenditure necessary secure stability therefore recommend commission authorized expend portion sum appropriated act may necessary purpose present unfinished condition monument begun long ago reproach nation doubted patriotic sense country warmly respond prompt provision may made completion early day urge upon congress propriety necessity immediate legislation purpose wisdom legislation upon part congress aid states education whole people branches study taught common schools country longer question intelligent judgment country goes still regarding also constitutional expedient general government extend technical higher education aid deemed essential general welfare due prominence among enlightened cultured nations world ultimate settlement questions future whether administration finance true nationality sentiment depends upon virtue intelligence people vain hope success free government without means insuring intelligence source power less entire voting population country yet unable read write encouraging observe connection growth fraternal feeling states slavery formerly existed evidences increasing interest universal education shall glad give approval appropriate measures may enacted congress purpose supplementing national aid local systems education states states already invited attention needs district columbia respect system add believe desirable much reference local wants district great lasting benefit entire country system crowned university respects keeping national capital thereby realize cherished hopes washington subject also earnestly commend request regents smithsonian institution adequate appropriation made establishment conduct national museum supervision question providing preservation growth library congress also one national importance depository copyright publications records library outgrown provisions accommodation erection site judgment congress may approve fireproof library building preserve treasures enlarge usefulness valuable collection recommended recommend also legislation render available efficient purposes instruction far consistent public service cabinets museums invention surgery education agriculture collections property national government capital nation something mere political center avail opportunities providence placed command promote general intelligence people increase conditions favorable success perpetuity institutions
devout gratitude bountiful giver good congratulate begin first regular session find country bless health peace abundant harvest encourage prospect early return general prosperity complete make permanent pacification country continue fully accomplish must remain important national interest earnest purpose good citizen generally unite effort endeavor evident found decide expression resolution announce 1876 national convention lead political party country widespread apprehension momentous result progress nation mark recent amendment constitution imminent jeopardy good understanding prompt adoption interest loyal devotion general welfare might prove barren truce two section country engage civil strife might almost widely sever disunite arrayed arm course pursue judgment seem wise presence emergency plainly indicate inaugural address point time people desire see genuine love whole country concern true welfare shall supplant destructive force mutual animosity race sectional hostility opinion differ widely measure best calculated secure great end expect measure adopt administration subject severe varied criticism course whatever might enter upon would certainly encounter distrust opposition measure judgment harmony constitution genius people best adapt circumstance attain end view beneficent result already apparent prove endeavor regard mere experiment sustain encourage u effort already brief period elapse immediate effectiveness less justice course pursue demonstrated abide faith time furnish ample vindication mind great majority discontinuance use army purpose uphold local government two state union less constitutional duty requirement circumstance exist time measure restoration local promotion national harmony withdrawal troops employment effect deliberately solicitous care peace good order society protection property person every right class citizen result follow indeed significant encouraging apprehension danger remit state local dispel salutary change mind people begin progress every part section country theater unhappy civil strife substitute suspicion distrust aversion concord friendship patriotic attachment union unprejudiced mind deny terrible often fatal collision several year frequent occurrence agitate alarmed public mind almost entirely ceased spirit mutual forbearance hearty national interest succeed general reestablishment order orderly administration justice instance remain lawlessness become rare occurrence political turmoil turbulence disappear useful industry resume public credit southern state greatly strengthen encouraging benefit revival commerce section country lately embroil civil war fully enjoy result already attain upon country congratulate importance may confidence patiently await desire consummation surely come natural progress event may improper say fix unalterable determination protect available proper mean constitution law lately emancipate race enjoyment right privilege urge upon heretofore colored people sustain relation bondman wisdom justice humane liberal local legislation respect education general welfare firm adherence law national state civil political right color people advance full equal citizenship immediate repression sure punishment national local authority within respective jurisdiction every instance lawlessness violence toward require security alike race justly demand public opinion country age way restoration harmony good complete protection every citizen full enjoyment every constitutional right surely attain whatever authority rest end shall hesitate put forth whatever belongs power congress jurisdiction court union may confidently rely upon provide perform legislatures court executive authority several state earnestly appeal secure adequate appropriate seasonable mean within border common uniform right united people love liberty abhors oppression revere justice object dear heart shall continue earnestly strive attainment cordial cooperation class section country race require purpose blessing assure otherwise may safely hope hand free institution government unimpaired generation succeed u among subject great general importance people country mistake think regard preeminent policy measure design secure restoration currency normal healthful condition resumption specie payment internal trade foreign commerce may bring harmony system exchange base upon precious metal intrinsic money world public judgment end seek compass speedily securely resource people wisdom government accomplish much great degree unanimity find concur specific measure bring country desire end rapidity step safely reach upon anxious deliberate examination felt duty give subject confirm opinion express accept nomination presidency upon inauguration policy resumption pursue every suitable mean legislation would wise disparage importance retard attainment result disposition certainly right question sincerity intelligence oppose opinion would neither conceal undervalue considerable difficulty even occasional distress may attend progress nation toward primary condition general permanent prosperity must however adhere earnest conviction waver purpose unsteadiness method far avoid reduce inconvenience inseparable transition irredeemable redeemable paper currency would tend increase prolonged disturbance value unless retrieve must end serious disorder dishonor disaster financial affair government people mischiefs apprehend urgently deprecate confined class people indeed seem certainly threaten industrious mass whether occupation skilled common labor seem prime importance labor compensate money fix exchangeable value irrevocably measure labor necessary production permanent quality money people seek gain resumption specie payment rich speculative operating class may always feel mischief may find casual profit variable currency misfortune currency pay salary wage inevitable remediless closely connect general subject resumption specie payment one subordinate still grave importance mean readjustment coinage system renewal silver dollar element specie currency endow legislation quality legal tender great less extent doubt power congress constitution coin money regulate value thereof power cover whole range authority applicable metal rat value quality shall adopt coinage consideration induce discourage particular measure connect coinage belong clearly province legislative discretion public expediency without intrude upon province legislation least yet think subject critical importance actual condition affair present occasion exercise duty impose constitution president recommend consideration congress measure shall judge necessary expedient hold opinion neither interest government people united state would promote disparage silver one two precious metal furnish coinage world legislation look maintain volume intrinsic money full measure metal relative commercial value permit would neither unjust inexpedient must ask indulgence brief definite statement certain essential feature legislative measure feel duty recommend propose enter debate represent side able disputant congress people press extent legislation one nation control question even within border unwritten law trade positive law government wisdom congress shape particular law may present approval may wholly supersede necessity enter consideration willingly avoid either vague intricate inquiry certain plain practical trait legislation desire recommend attention legislation provide silver coinage regulate value impart quality legal tender seem great importance congress lose sight action operate twofold capacity two distinct direction united state government free public debt legislative deal question silver coinage would purely sovereign governmental restraint constitutional power public good affect proposed legislation actual circumstance nation vast public debt distribute widely among citizen hold great amount also abroad nature measure affect relation government holder public debt become element propose legislation high concern obligation public faith transcends question profit public advantage otherwise unquestionable maintenance dictate well high expediency necessary duty ever carefully guarded congress people alike public debt unite state amount bears interest rate 6 per cent rate 5 per cent way country relieve payment high rate interest advantageously refund indebtedness whether debt ultimately pay gold silver coin little moment compare possible reduction interest refund reduce rate united state unquestioned right pay bond silver coin little benefit process would greatly overbalance injurious effect payment make propose honest conviction public creditor bond issue since february 12 1873 gold become unlimited metallic currency country justly payable gold coin coin equal value time issue dollar could receive government exchange bond gold dollar require public creditor take repayment dollar less commercial value would regard repudiation full obligation assume bond issue prior 1873 issued time gold dollar coin circulation contemplate either government holder bond coin pay far well pay bond coin seem take advantage unforeseen fall silver bullion pay new issue silver coin thus make much less valuable power united state coin money regulate value thereof ought never exercise purpose enable government pay obligation coin less value contemplate party bond issue attempt pay national indebtedness coinage less commercial value money world would involve violation public faith work irreparable injury public credit great merit act march 1869 strengthen public credit remove doubt purpose united state pay bond debt coin act accept pledge public faith government derive great benefit progress thus far make refund public debt low rate interest adherence wise policy exact observance public faith enable government rapidly reduce burden interest national debt amount exceed per annum effect aggregate save united state bond fully pay adapt new silver coinage ordinary us currency everyday transaction life prescribe quality legal tender assign consideration first importance adjust ratio silver gold coinage constitute specie currency accomplish desired end maintain circulation two metallic currency keep volume two precious metal intrinsic money mixed question scientific reason historical experience determine far method practical equilibrium maintain keep metal circulation appropriate sphere common use absolute equality commercial value free disturb fluctuation hardly attainable without unlimited legal tender private transaction assign metal would irresistibly tend drive circulation clearer coinage disappoint principal object propose legislation view apprehend therefore two condition near approach equality commercial value gold silver coinage denomination limitation amount silver coinage legal tender essential maintain circulation condition successfully observe issue mint silver dollar would afford material assistance community transition redeemable paper money would facilitate resumption specie payment permanent establishment without condition fear mischief misfortune would flow coinage silver dollar quality unlimited legal tender even private transaction expectation temporary ease issue silver coinage pas legal tender rate materially commercial value persuade delusion think substantial distinction original issue silver dollar nominal value materially commercial value restoration silver dollar rate cease commercial value certainly issue gold coinage reduce weight materially value would less present debasement coinage reason equal even exceed weight gold coinage past time commercially equal value assign new issue recommend regulation silver coinage may authorize congress observe condition commercial value limited legal tender govern feel every possible increase give volume metallic money keep circulation thereby every possible aid afford people process resume specie payment firm conviction disregard condition would frustrate good result desire proposed coinage embarrass new element confusion uncertainty business country urge upon attention consideration respectfully recommend congress legislation provide silver coinage impart quality legal tender impress upon measure firm provision exempt public debt heretofore issue outstanding payment either principal interest coinage less commercial value present gold coinage country organization civil service country number year attract public attention general become opinion method admission condition remain unsound great political party agree explicit declaration necessity reform emphatic demand fully believe declaration demand expression sincere conviction intelligent mass people upon subject recognize follow earnest prompt action part legislative executive department government pursuance purpose indicated accession office endeavor view distinctly understood upon inauguration accord public opinion state term believe plain unambiguous experience executive duty strongly confirm belief great advantage country would find observe strictly plan constitution impose upon executive sole duty responsibility selection federal officer law appoint elect like manner assigns senate complete right advise consent reject nomination make whilst house representative stand public censor performance official duty prerogative investigation prosecution case dereliction blemish imperfection civil service may think traced case practical confusion duty assign several department government purpose respect return system establish fundamental law hearty cooperation cordial understand senate house representative practical difficulty selection numerous officer post widely vary responsibility duty acknowledge great system expect secure absolute freedom mistake begin attempted change custom quite likely embarrassed respect subsequent period constitution seem prove claim great wisdom accord give executive assistance knowledge experience senate act upon nomination may disinterested impartial judge secure strong guaranty freedom error importance perhaps possible human affair addition recognize public advantage make nomination nearly possible impersonal sense free mere caprice favor selection office special train greatly increase value believe rule tenure office obtain may induce men proper qualification apply industriously task become proficients bear thing mind endeavor reduce number change subordinate place usually make upon change general administration shall heartily cooperate congress well systematize method rule admission public service promotion within may promise successful make thorough competency efficiency character decisive test matter ask renew attention congress already do civil service commission appoint pursuance act congress predecessor prepare revise rule regard much departmental service especially washington may difficult organize good system thus provide use considerable extent direction commission still legal existence although several year appropriation make defray expense believe commission render valuable service useful agency improve administration civil service respectfully recommend suitable appropriation immediately available make enable continue labor purpose transmit congress early practicable report chairman commission ask attention measure subject opinion promote improvement civil service past year united state continue maintain peaceful relation foreign power outbreak war russia turkey though one time attend grave apprehension effect upon european nation tendency disturb amicable relation exist united state two contend power attitude impartial neutrality preserve gratified state midst hostility russian turkish government show earnest disposition adhere obligation treaty unite state give due regard right american citizen term treaty define right immunity privilege consuls italy united state ratify 1868 either government may lapse ten year terminate existence treaty give twelve month notice intention government italy avail faculty give required notice treaty accordingly end 17th september 1878 understood however italian government wish renew general scope desire certain modification article disposition concur shall hope serious obstacle may intervene prevent delay negotiation satisfactory treaty numerous question regard passport naturalization exemption military service continue arise case emigrant germany return native country provision treaty february 22 1868 however prove ample judicious legation united state berlin able adjust claim arise without detriment amicable relation exist two government believe without injury injustice duly naturalized american citizen desirable treaty originally make north german union 1868 extend apply equally state empire germany invitation government france participate exposition product agriculture industry fine art hold paris come year submit consideration extra session doubt acceptance united state exhibition product american industry occasion tend stimulate international commerce emigration well promote traditional friendship two country question arose time since proper mean extradition article treaty 1842 united state great britain government however accord belief question one allow frustrate end justice disturb friendship two nation serious difficulty arisen accomplish extradition criminal necessary probable point disagreement due time settle need explicit declaration make new treaty fishery commission article xviii xxv treaty washington conclude session halifax result deliberation commission make public commissioner communicate congress treaty protection negotiate great britain submit senate consideration revolution recently occur mexico follow accession successful party power installation chief general porfirio diaz presidential office custom united state change government heretofore occur mexico recognize enter official relation de facto government soon appear approval mexican people manifest disposition adhere obligation treaty international friendship present case official recognition defer occurrence rio grande border record already communicate house congress answer respective resolution inquiry assurance receive authority seat mexican government disposition power prevent punish unlawful invasion depredation earnestly hop event may prove assurance well round best interest country require maintenance peace upon border development commerce two republic gratify add temporary interruption official relation prevent due attention representative united state mexico protection american citizen far practicable interfered prompt payment amount due mexico united state treaty july 4 1868 award joint commission anticipate interruption friendly relation mexico yet look solicitude upon continuance border disorder expose two country initiation popular feeling mischance action naturally unfavorable complete amity firmly determine nothing shall want part promote good understand two nation yet must ask attention congress actual occurrence border live property citizen may adequately protect peace preserve another year pass without bring close protract contest spanish government insurrection island cuba united state sedulously abstain intervention contest impossible feel attend incident affect right interest american citizen apart effect hostility upon trade united state cuba progress inevitably accompany complaint less foundation search arrest embargo oppressive tax upon property american resident unprovoked interference american vessel commerce due government spain say past year promptly disavow offer reparation unauthorized act unduly zealous subordinate whenever act bring attention nevertheless occurrence tend excite feeling annoyance suspicion resentment greatly deprecate respective subject citizens two friendly power much delay consequent upon accusation fraud award occur respect distribution limit amount receive venezuela treaty april 25 1866 applicable award joint commission create treaty long matter pending congress executive assume either pas upon question present distribute fund receive eminently desirable definite legislative action take either affirm award final provide method reexamination claim relation republic central south america empire brazil continue without serious change temporary interruption diplomatic intercourse venezuela guatemala amicable relation already fully restore venezuela doubt ground misunderstand guatemala speedily remove country favorable indication disposition part government people reciprocate effort direction increase commercial intercourse government samoan islands sent envoy person secretary state invite government unite state recognize protect independence establish commercial relation people assist step toward regulate responsible government inhabitant island make considerable progress christian civilization development trade doubtful ability maintain peace independence without aid stronger power subject deem worthy respectful attention claim upon assistance distant community carefully consider long commercial depression united state direct attention subject possible increase foreign trade method development europe country especially state sovereignty western hemisphere instruction department state issue various diplomatic consular officer government ask devote attention question method trade respective country official residence united state could judiciously foster obedience instruction examination report upon subject make many officer transmit department submit consideration congress annual report secretary treasury state finance present important question action congress upon already remark revenue government fiscal year end june 30 1877 total expenditure period leave surplus revenue substantially supply requirement sink fund year estimate revenue current fiscal year estimate expenditure period estimate prove correct surplus revenue amount nearly sufficient sinking fund year estimate revenue next fiscal year appear report last fiscal year revenue government compare previous year largely decreased decrease amount sum mainly customs duty cause partly large fall amount import dutiable good partly general fall price market production article pay ad valorem tax felt injuriously diminution revenue accompany large increase exportation total export last fiscal year include coin import leave balance trade favor united state amount sum beneficial effect extend branch business estimate revenue next fiscal year impose upon congress duty strictly limiting appropriation include requisite sum maintenance sinking fund within aggregate estimate receipt aggregate tax increase amendment might make revenue law would without diminish revenue relieve people unnecessary burden tax tea coffee show experience country country easily collect without loss undervaluation fraud largely borne country production tax 10 cent pound tea 2 cent pound coffee would produce revenue exceed thus enable congress repeal multitude annoy tax yield revenue exceed sum system grow necessity war legislation impose tax upon domestic product system repeal substitution tax tea coffee form internal taxation may repeal except whisky spirit tobacco beer attention also call necessity enact vigorous law protection revenue punishment frauds smuggle best do judicious provision induce disclosure attempt fraud undervaluation smuggle revenue law simple provision easily understand far practicable rate taxation form specific duty ad valorem require judgment experience men ascertain value expose revenue temptation fraud attention call recess congress abuse exist collection custom strenuous effort make correction executive order recommendation submit secretary treasury commission appoint examine collection custom duty port new york contain many suggestion modification custom law attention congress invite matter congratulation notwithstanding severe burden cause war public faith creditor preserve result policy public credit continuously advanced public security regard high favor market world trust act government cast shadow upon credit progress refund public debt rapid satisfactory contract exist enter upon discharge duty office bond bear interest rate 4 per cent rapidly sell within three month aggregate sale bond reach sum sanction secretary treasury enter new contract sale 4 per cent bond within thirty day popular subscription bond open subscription amount pay within ninety day date subscription process within little one year annual interest public debt reduce sum recommend suitable provision make enable people easily convert savings government security best mode small saving may well secure yield moderate interest object public policy retain among people security united state way country guard sudden return foreign country cause war disturbance beyond limit commerce united state foreign nation especially export domestic production late year largely increase great portion trade conduct foreign vessel importance enlarge foreign trade especially direct speedy interchange country continent overestimate matter great moment ship interest receive utmost practical extent benefit commerce land consideration forcibly urge large commercial city country public attention generally wisely attracted solution problem present doubt congress take broad spirit liberality respond public demand practical legislation upon important subject report secretary war show army actively employed year render important service suppress hostility indian country preserve peace protect life property interior well along mexican border long arduous campaign prosecute final complete success portion nez perce tribe indians full account campaign find report general army see course several severe battle fought number gallant officer men lose life join secretary war general army award officer men employ long toilsome pursuit final capture indian honor praise justly due serious riot occur several state july last rendered necessary employment considerable portion army preserve peace maintain order state west virginia maryland pennsylvania illinois disturbance formidable defy local state authority national executive call upon mode provide constitution law furnish military aid gratify able state troop send response call aid suppression domestic violence able influence presence disturb region preserve peace restore order without use force discharge delicate important duty officer men act great prudence courage service deserve thanks country disturbance along rio grande texas already refer rendered necessary constant employment military force vicinity full report recent military operation quarter transmit house representative answer resolution body therefore necessary enter detail regret say lawless incursion territory arm band mexican side line purpose robbery frequent occurrence spite vigilant effort commander force marauder generally succeed escape mexico plunder may last give order exercise utmost vigilance part troop suppression raid punishment guilty party well recapture property steal general ord command texas direct invite cooperation mexican authority effort end assure anxious avoid give least offense mexico time direct give notice determination put end invasion territory lawless band intent upon plunder peaceful citizen even effectual punishment outlaw make cross border troop pursuit necessary believed policy effect check somewhat depredation considerable increase force upon frontier establishment several additional military post along rio grande effectually guard extensive border peace may preserve life property citizen texas fully protect prior 1st day july last army accordance law reduce maximum enlisted men reduction force previously authorize reduction make require law entirely infantry artillery branch service without reduction cavalry law stand necessary cavalry regiment recruit 100 men company service mexican indian frontier necessary effect legislation reduce infantry artillery arm service number require efficiency concur secretary war recommend authority give recruit company infantry least 50 men battery artillery least 75 men power case emergency increase former 100 latter 122 men invite special attention follow recommendation secretary war first provision make supply army abundant good supply read matter second early action take congress look complete revision republication army regulation third section 1258 revise statute limit number officer retire list repeal fourth claim arise act july 4 1864 supply take army war take office quartermaster commissary general transfer southern claim commission tribunal time well facility prompt investigation decision possess officer fifth congress provide annuity fund family decease soldier recommend army report secretary navy show six squadron engage protection foreign commerce duty pertain naval service condition operation department also show total expenditure fiscal year end june 30 1877 unpaid claim department chargeable last year present consideration congress report secretary estimate fiscal year commence july 1 1878 exclusive sum submit new building repair improvement several appropriation present fiscal year commence july 1 1877 amount draw treasury july 1 november 1 1877 estimate yet available show amount actual expenditure first four month present fiscal year report contain full clear statement operation condition department ordinary revenue department fiscal year end june 30 1877 include receipt business official stamp stamp envelope amount sum additional sum realize appropriation general treasury various purpose make receipt source total expenditure fiscal year amount leave excess total receipt total expenditure excess total expenditure ordinary receipt deduct total receipt sum receive international money order precede fiscal year deduct total expenditure sum pay liability incur previous fiscal year expenditures receipt appertain business last fiscal year follow ordinary revenue department year end june 30 1879 estimate increase 3 per cent 1877 making expenditure year estimate leave estimate deficiency year 1879 additional legislation recommend improvement mail service protect postal revenue abuse practice exist law respectfully commend careful consideration congress report contain several suggestion administration justice invite attention pressure business supreme court certain circuit court unite state serious delay great injury even oppression suitor occur remedy seek condition affair whether found plan briefly sketch report increase number judge circuit court mean addition judicial force create intermediate court error appeal whether mode devise obviate difficulty exist leave mature consideration present condition indian tribes territory united state relation fully set forth report secretary interior commissioner indian affair series deplorable conflict successful termination reflect honor upon brave soldier accomplish lessen regret occurrence peace indian tribe within border preserve peace humane policy object earnest endeavor whatever may say character savage propensity difficulty introduce among habit civilize life obstacle offer progress settlement enterprise certain part country indians certainly entitle sympathy conscientious respect part claim upon sense justice aboriginal occupant land possess drive place place purchase money pay case call still leave poor many instance settle upon land assign compact begin support labor rudely jostle thrust wilderness many indian war origin broken promise act injustice upon part advance indians civilization slow treatment receive permit faster general expect improve follow guidance unless keep faith respect right possess unless instead deprive opportunity lend help hand cordially approve policy regard management indian affair outline report secretary interior commissioner indian affair faithful performance promise first condition good understanding indian urgently recommend congress prompt liberal provision make conscientious fulfillment engagement enter government indian tribe withhold mean necessary performance promise always false economy apt prove disastrous consequence especial care recommend provide indian settle reservation cattle agricultural implement aid whatever effort may make support establishment maintenance school bring control civilized influence see reason indian give satisfactory proof labor support family number year willing detach tribal relation admit benefit homestead act privilege citizenship recommend passage law effect act justice well measure encouragement earnest effort make purify indian service every dollar appropriate congress shall redound benefit indian intend effort firm support improve service every possible encouragement hold indian well condition elevate scale civilization may hope accomplish time good work invite attention congress importance statement suggestion make secretary interior concern depredation commit timber land united state necessity preservation forest believe measure take pursuance exist law arrest depredation entirely successful congress appropriation purpose render continue enforcement possible experience nation teach u country strip forest impunity shall expose grave consequence unless wasteful improvident manner forest unite state destroy effectually check earnestly recommend measure suggest secretary interior suppression depredation public timber land united state sell timber public land preservation forest embody law consider urgent necessity enable people certain state territory purchase timber public land legal manner present law pass without unavoidable delay would also call attention congress statement make secretary interior concern disposition might make desert land irrigable west one hundredth meridian land practically unsalable exist law suggestion worthy consideration system leasehold tenure would make source profit united state time legalize business cattle raise present carry upon report commissioner agriculture contain gratify announcement extraordinary success reward agricultural industry country past year fair price obtain product soil especially surplus people export may confidently turn important resource revival depressed industry country report show agricultural progress year contain statement work do department advancement agricultural industry upon prosperity people largely depend matter information include great interest seek experience others improve method cultivation effort department increase production important article consumption hop improve demand labor advance business country eventually result save many million annually pay foreign nation sugar staple product habitual use make necessary domestic everyday life board behalf united state executive department international exhibition 1876 conclude labor final report board transmit congress president near close last session paper understand contain interest valuable information constitute report emanate government subject exhibition invite attention matter recommend report publish general information congress empower constitution authority exclusive legislation district columbia seat government nation locate interest district direct representation congress entitle especial consideration care hand general government capital unite state belongs nation natural american people take pride seat national government desire ornament country much do render healthful convenient attractive much remain do permanent inhabitant able ought expect impose upon large proportion cost require public improvement great measure plan execute convenience government many thousand visitor part country temporarily reside capital nation evident injustice special attention ask commissioner district report herewith transmit importance permanent adjustment congress financial relation united state district involve regular annual contribution united state proportion expense district government outlay need public improvement measure relief burden taxation rest upon people district wisdom congress may deem report commissioner show affair district condition satisfactory could expect view heavy burden debt rest upon limited mean necessary expense debt district follow commissioner also ask attention importance improvement potomac river reclamation marsh border city washington view upon subject concur member board health whose report also herewith transmitted commercial sanitary interest district greatly promote doubt improvement attention invite suggestion commissioner board health organization board charities supervision control disbursement money charitable purpose district treasury desire also ask especial attention need add efficiency public school district supplemental aid national treasury especially since large number attend school child employee government earnestly commend care interest people district intimately associated government establishment whose enterprise good order attractiveness capital largely due ask attention request commissioner legislation behalf interest intrust care appropriation ask care reservation belong government within city commissioner public building ground also commend favorable consideration report joint commission create act approve 2d august 1876 entitle act provide completion washington monument also herewith transmitted accompany document board engineer officer detail examine monument compliance second section act report foundation insufficient authority exist make expenditure necessary secure stability therefore recommend commission authorize expend portion sum appropriate act may necessary purpose present unfinished condition monument begin long ago reproach nation doubt patriotic sense country warmly respond prompt provision may make completion early day urge upon congress propriety necessity immediate legislation purpose wisdom legislation upon part congress aid state education whole people branch study taught common school country long question intelligent judgment country go still regard also constitutional expedient general government extend technical high education aid deem essential general welfare due prominence among enlightened culture nation world ultimate settlement question future whether administration finance true nationality sentiment depend upon virtue intelligence people vain hope success free government without mean insure intelligence source power less entire voting population country yet unable read write encourage observe connection growth fraternal feeling state slavery formerly exist evidence increase interest universal education shall glad give approval appropriate measure may enact congress purpose supplement national aid local system education state state already invite attention need district columbia respect system add believe desirable much reference local want district great lasting benefit entire country system crown university respect keep national capital thereby realize cherished hope washington subject also earnestly commend request regent smithsonian institution adequate appropriation make establishment conduct national museum supervision question provide preservation growth library congress also one national importance depository copyright publication record library outgrown provision accommodation erection site judgment congress may approve fireproof library building preserve treasure enlarge usefulness valuable collection recommend recommend also legislation render available efficient purpose instruction far consistent public service cabinet museums invention surgery education agriculture collection property national government capital nation something mere political center avail opportunity providence place command promote general intelligence people increase condition favorable success perpetuity institution