It would have been a source, fellow citizens, of much gratification if our last communications from Europe had enabled me to inform you that the belligerent nations, whose disregard of neutral rights has been so destructive to our commerce, had become awakened to the duty and true policy of revoking their unrighteous edicts. That no means might be omitted to produce this salutary effect, I lost no time in availing myself of the act authorizing a suspension, in whole or in part, of the several embargo laws. Our ministers at London and Paris were instructed to explain to the respective Governments there our disposition to exercise the authority in such manner as would withdraw the pretext on which the aggressions were originally founded and open the way for a renewal of that commercial intercourse which it was alleged on all sides had been reluctantly obstructed. As each of those Governments had pledged its readiness to concur in renouncing a measure which reached its adversary through the incontestable rights of neutrals only, and as the measure had been assumed by each as a retaliation for an asserted acquiescence in the aggression of the other, it was reasonably expected that the occasion would have been seized by both for evincing the sincerity of their professions, and for restoring to the commerce of the United States its legitimate freedom. The instructions to our ministers with respect to the different belligerents were necessarily modified with a reference to their different circumstances, and to the condition annexed by law to the Executive power of suspension, requiring a decree of security to our commerce which would not result from a repeal of the decrees of France. Instead of a pledge, therefore, of a suspension of the embargo as to her in case of such a repeal, it was presumed that a sufficient inducement might be found in other considerations, and particularly in the change produced by a compliance with our just demands by one belligerent and a refusal by the other in the relations between the other and the United States. To Great Britain, whose power on the ocean is so ascendant, it was deemed not inconsistent with that condition to state explicitly that on her rescinding her orders in relation to the United States their trade would be opened with her, and remain shut to her enemy in case of his failure to rescind his decrees also. From France no answer has been received, nor any indication that the requisite change in her decrees is contemplated. The favorable reception of the proposition to Great Britain was the less to be doubted, as her orders of council had not only been referred for their vindication to an acquiescence on the part of the United States no longer to be pretended, but as the arrangement proposed, whilst it resisted the illegal decrees of France, involved, moreover, substantially the precise advantages professedly aimed at by the British orders. The arrangement has nevertheless been rejected. This candid and liberal experiment having thus failed, and no other event having occurred on which a suspension of the embargo by the Executive was authorized, it necessarily remains in the extent originally given to it. We have the satisfaction, however, to reflect that in return for the privations imposed by the measure, and which our fellow citizens in general have borne with patriotism, it has had the important effects of saving our mariners and our vast mercantile property, as well as of affording time for prosecuting the defensive and provisional measures called for by the occasion. It has demonstrated to foreign nations the moderation and firmness which govern our councils, and to our citizens the necessity of uniting in support of the laws and the rights of their country, and has thus long frustrated those usurpations and spoliations which, if resisted, involved war; if submitted to, sacrificed a vital principle of our national independence. Under a continuance of the belligerent measures which, in defiance of laws which consecrate the rights of neutrals, overspread the ocean with danger, it will rest with the wisdom of Congress to decide on the course best adapted to such a state of things; and bringing with them, as they do, from every part of the Union the sentiments of our constituents, my confidence is strengthened that in forming this decision they will, with an unerring regard to the essential rights and interests of the nation, weigh and compare the painful alternatives out of which a choice is to be made. Nor should I do justice to the virtues which on other occasions have marked the character of our fellow citizens if I did not cherish an equal confidence that the alternative chosen, whatever it may be, will be maintained with all the fortitude and patriotism which the crisis ought to inspire. The documents containing the correspondences on the subject of the foreign edicts against our commerce, with the instructions given to our ministers at London and Paris, are now laid before you. The communications made to Congress at their last session explained the posture in which the close of the discussions relating to the attack by a British ship of war on the frigate Chesapeake left a subject on which the nation had manifested so honorable a sensibility. Every view of what had passed authorized a believe that immediate steps would be taken by the British Government for redressing a wrong which the more it was investigated appeared the more clearly to require what had not been provided for in the special mission. It is found that no steps have been taken for the purpose. On the contrary, it will be seen in the documents laid before you that the inadmissible preliminary which obstructed the adjustment is still adhered to, and, moreover, that it is now brought into connection with the distinct and irrelative case of the orders in council. The instructions which had been given to our minister at London with a view to facilitate, if necessary, the reparation claimed by the United States are included in the documents communicated. Our relations with the other powers of Europe have undergone no material changes since your last session. The important negotiations with Spain which had been alternately suspended and resumed necessarily experience a pause under the extraordinary and interesting crisis which distinguishes her internal situation. With the Barbary Powers we continue in harmony, with the exception of an unjustifiable proceeding of the Dey of Algiers toward our consul to that Regency. Its character and circumstances are now laid before you, and will enable you to decide how far it may, either now or hereafter, call for any measures not within the limits of the Executive authority. With our Indian neighbors the public peace has been steadily maintained. Some instances of individual wrong have, as at other times, taken place, but in no wise implicating the will of the nation. Beyond the Mississippi the Ioways, the Sacs and the Alabamas have delivered up for trial and punishment individuals from among themselves accused of murdering citizens of the United States. On this side of the Mississippi the Creeks are exerting themselves to arrest offenders of the same kind, and the Choctaws have manifested their readiness and desire for amicable and just arrangements respecting depredations committed by disorderly persons of their tribe. And, generally, from a conviction that we consider them as a part of ourselves, and cherish with sincerity their rights and interests, the attachment of the Indian tribes is gaining strength daily - is extending from the nearer to the more remote, and will amply requite us for the justice and friendship practiced toward them. Husbandry and household manufacture are advancing among them more rapidly with the Southern than Northern tribes, from circumstances of soil and climate, and one of the two great divisions of the Cherokee Nation have now under consideration to solicit the citizenship of the United States, and to be identified with us in laws and government in such progressive manner as we shall think best. In consequence of the appropriations of the last session of Congress for the security of our sea port towns and harbors, such works of defense have been erected as seemed to be called for by the situation of the several places, their relative importance, and the scale of expense indicated by the amount of the appropriation. These works will chiefly be finished in the course of the present season, except at New York and New Orleans, where most was to be done; and although a great proportion of the last appropriation has been expended on the former place, yet some further views will be submitted to Congress for rendering its security entirely adequate against naval enterprise. A view of what has been done at the several places, and of what is proposed to be done, shall be communicated as soon as the several reports are received. Of the gun boats authorized by the act of December last, it has been thought necessary to build only 103 in the present year. These, with those before possessed, are sufficient for the harbors and waters most exposed, and the residents will require little time for their construction when it shall be deemed necessary. Under the act of the last session for raising an additional military force so many officers were immediately appointed as were necessary for carrying on the business of recruiting, and in proportion as it advanced others have been added. We have reason to believe their success has been satisfactory, although such returns have not yet been received as enable me to present you a statement of the numbers engaged. I have not thought it necessary in the course of the last season to call for any general detachments of militia or of volunteers under the laws passed for that purpose. For the ensuing season, however, they will be required to be in readiness should their service be wanted. Some small and special detachments have been necessary to maintain the laws of embargo on that portion of our northern frontier which offered peculiar facilities for evasion, but these were replaced as soon as it could be done by bodies of new recruits. By the aid of these and of the armed vessels called into service in other quarters the spirit of disobedience and abuse, which manifested itself early and with sensible effect while we were unprepared to meet it, has been considerably repressed. Considering the extraordinary character of the times in which we live, our attention should unremittingly be fixed on the safety of our country. For a people who are free, and who mean to remain so, a well organized and armed militia is their best security. It is therefore incumbent on us at every meeting to revise the condition of the militia, and to ask ourselves if it is prepared to repel a powerful enemy at every point of our territories exposed to invasion. Some of the States have paid a laudable attention to this object, but every degree of neglect is to be found among others. Congress alone having the power to produce an uniform state of preparation in this great organ of defense, the interests which they so deeply feel in their own and their country's security will present this as among the most important objects of their deliberation. Under the acts of March 11 and April 23 respecting arms, the difficulty of procuring them from abroad during the present situation and dispositions of Europe induced us to direct our whole efforts to the means of internal supply. The public factories have therefore been enlarged, additional machineries erected, and, in proportion as artificers can be found or formed, their effect, already more than doubled, may be increased so as to keep pace with the yearly increase of the militia. The annual sums appropriated by the latter have been directed to the encouragement of private factories of arms, and contracts have been entered into with individual undertakers to nearly the amount of the first year's appropriation. The suspension of our foreign commerce, produced by the injustice of the belligerent powers and the consequent losses and sacrifices of our citizens are subjects of just concern. The situation into which we have thus been forced has impelled us to apply a portion of our industry and capital to internal manufactures and improvements. The extent of this conversion is daily increasing, and little doubt remains that the establishments formed and forming will, under the auspices of cheaper materials and subsistence, the freedom of labor from taxation with us, and of protecting duties and prohibitions, become permanent. The commerce with the Indians, too, within our own boundaries is likely to receive abundant aliment from the same internal source, and will secure to them peace and the progress of civilization, undisturbed by practices hostile to both. The accounts of the receipts and expenditures during the year ending the 30th of September last being not yet made up, a correct statement will hereafter be transmitted from the Treasury. In the mean time it is ascertained that the receipts have amounted to near $18M, which, with the $8.5M in the Treasury at the beginning of the year, have enabled us, after meeting the current demands and interest incurred, to pay $2.3M of the principal of our funded debt, and left us in the Treasury on that day near $14M. Of these, $5.35M will be necessary to pay what will be due on the 1st day of January next, which will complete the reimbursement of the 8% stock. These payments, with those made in the 6.5 years preceding, will have extinguished $33.58M of the principal of the funded debt, being the whole which could be paid or purchased within the limits of the law and of our contracts, and the amount of principal thus discharged will have liberated the revenue from about $2M of interest and added that sum annually to the disposable surplus. The probable accumulation of the surpluses of revenue beyond what can be applied to the payment of the public debt whenever the freedom and safety of our commerce shall be restored merits the consideration of Congress. Shall it lie unproductive in the public vaults? Shall the revenue be reduced? Or shall it not rather be appropriated to the improvements of roads, canals, rivers, education, and other great foundations of prosperity and union under the powers which Congress may already possess or such amendment to the Constitution as may be approved by the States? While uncertain of the course of things, the time may be advantageously employed in obtaining the powers necessary for a system of improvement, should that be thought best. Availing myself of this the last occasion which will occur of addressing the two Houses of the Legislature at their meeting, I can not omit the expression of my sincere gratitude for the repeated proofs of confidence manifested to me by themselves and their predecessors since my call to the administration and the many indulgences experienced at their hands. These same grateful acknowledgements are due to my fellow citizens generally, whose support has been my great encouragement under all embarrassments. In the transaction of their business I can not have escaped error. It is incident to our imperfect nature. But I may say with truth my errors have been of the understanding, not of intention, and that the advancement of their rights and interests has been the constant motive for every measure. On these considerations I solicit their indulgence. Looking forward with anxiety to future destinies, I trust that in their steady character, unshaken by difficulties, in their love of liberty, obedience to law, and support of the public authorities, I see a sure guaranty of the permanence of our Republic; and, retiring from the charge of their affairs, I carry with me the consolation of a firm persuasion that Heaven has in store for our beloved country long ages to come of prosperity and happiness.
It would have been a source, fellow citizens, of much gratification if our last communications from Europe had enabled me to inform you that the belligerent nations, whose disregard of neutral rights has been so destructive to our commerce, had become awakened to the duty and true policy of revoking their unrighteous edicts. That no means might be omitted to produce this salutary effect, I lost no time in availing myself of the act authorizing a suspension, in whole or in part, of the several embargo laws. Our ministers at London and Paris were instructed to explain to the respective Governments there our disposition to exercise the authority in such manner as would withdraw the pretext on which the aggressions were originally founded and open the way for a renewal of that commercial intercourse which it was alleged on all sides had been reluctantly obstructed. As each of those Governments had pledged its readiness to concur in renouncing a measure which reached its adversary through the incontestable rights of neutrals only, and as the measure had been assumed by each as a retaliation for an asserted acquiescence in the aggression of the other, it was reasonably expected that the occasion would have been seized by both for evincing the sincerity of their professions, and for restoring to the commerce of the United States its legitimate freedom. The instructions to our ministers with respect to the different belligerents were necessarily modified with a reference to their different circumstances, and to the condition annexed by law to the Executive power of suspension, requiring a decree of security to our commerce which would not result from a repeal of the decrees of France. Instead of a pledge, therefore, of a suspension of the embargo as to her in case of such a repeal, it was presumed that a sufficient inducement might be found in other considerations, and particularly in the change produced by a compliance with our just demands by one belligerent and a refusal by the other in the relations between the other and the United States. To Great Britain, whose power on the ocean is so ascendant, it was deemed not inconsistent with that condition to state explicitly that on her rescinding her orders in relation to the United States their trade would be opened with her, and remain shut to her enemy in case of his failure to rescind his decrees also. From France no answer has been received, nor any indication that the requisite change in her decrees is contemplated. The favorable reception of the proposition to Great Britain was the less to be doubted, as her orders of council had not only been referred for their vindication to an acquiescence on the part of the United States no longer to be pretended, but as the arrangement proposed, whilst it resisted the illegal decrees of France, involved, moreover, substantially the precise advantages professedly aimed at by the British orders. The arrangement has nevertheless been rejected. This candid and liberal experiment having thus failed, and no other event having occurred on which a suspension of the embargo by the Executive was authorized, it necessarily remains in the extent originally given to it. We have the satisfaction, however, to reflect that in return for the privations imposed by the measure, and which our fellow citizens in general have borne with patriotism, it has had the important effects of saving our mariners and our vast mercantile property, as well as of affording time for prosecuting the defensive and provisional measures called for by the occasion. It has demonstrated to foreign nations the moderation and firmness which govern our councils, and to our citizens the necessity of uniting in support of the laws and the rights of their country, and has thus long frustrated those usurpations and spoliations which, if resisted, involved war; if submitted to, sacrificed a vital principle of our national independence. Under a continuance of the belligerent measures which, in defiance of laws which consecrate the rights of neutrals, overspread the ocean with danger, it will rest with the wisdom of Congress to decide on the course best adapted to such a state of things; and bringing with them, as they do, from every part of the Union the sentiments of our constituents, my confidence is strengthened that in forming this decision they will, with an unerring regard to the essential rights and interests of the nation, weigh and compare the painful alternatives out of which a choice is to be made. Nor should I do justice to the virtues which on other occasions have marked the character of our fellow citizens if I did not cherish an equal confidence that the alternative chosen, whatever it may be, will be maintained with all the fortitude and patriotism which the crisis ought to inspire. The documents containing the correspondences on the subject of the foreign edicts against our commerce, with the instructions given to our ministers at London and Paris, are now laid before you. The communications made to Congress at their last session explained the posture in which the close of the discussions relating to the attack by a British ship of war on the frigate Chesapeake left a subject on which the nation had manifested so honorable a sensibility. Every view of what had passed authorized a believe that immediate steps would be taken by the British Government for redressing a wrong which the more it was investigated appeared the more clearly to require what had not been provided for in the special mission. It is found that no steps have been taken for the purpose. On the contrary, it will be seen in the documents laid before you that the inadmissible preliminary which obstructed the adjustment is still adhered to, and, moreover, that it is now brought into connection with the distinct and irrelative case of the orders in council. The instructions which had been given to our minister at London with a view to facilitate, if necessary, the reparation claimed by the United States are included in the documents communicated. Our relations with the other powers of Europe have undergone no material changes since your last session. The important negotiations with Spain which had been alternately suspended and resumed necessarily experience a pause under the extraordinary and interesting crisis which distinguishes her internal situation. With the Barbary Powers we continue in harmony, with the exception of an unjustifiable proceeding of the Dey of Algiers toward our consul to that Regency. Its character and circumstances are now laid before you, and will enable you to decide how far it may, either now or hereafter, call for any measures not within the limits of the Executive authority. With our Indian neighbors the public peace has been steadily maintained. Some instances of individual wrong have, as at other times, taken place, but in no wise implicating the will of the nation. Beyond the Mississippi the Ioways, the Sacs and the Alabamas have delivered up for trial and punishment individuals from among themselves accused of murdering citizens of the United States. On this side of the Mississippi the Creeks are exerting themselves to arrest offenders of the same kind, and the Choctaws have manifested their readiness and desire for amicable and just arrangements respecting depredations committed by disorderly persons of their tribe. And, generally, from a conviction that we consider them as a part of ourselves, and cherish with sincerity their rights and interests, the attachment of the Indian tribes is gaining strength daily - is extending from the nearer to the more remote, and will amply requite us for the justice and friendship practiced toward them. Husbandry and household manufacture are advancing among them more rapidly with the Southern than Northern tribes, from circumstances of soil and climate, and one of the two great divisions of the Cherokee Nation have now under consideration to solicit the citizenship of the United States, and to be identified with us in laws and government in such progressive manner as we shall think best. In consequence of the appropriations of the last session of Congress for the security of our sea port towns and harbors, such works of defense have been erected as seemed to be called for by the situation of the several places, their relative importance, and the scale of expense indicated by the amount of the appropriation. These works will chiefly be finished in the course of the present season, except at New York and New Orleans, where most was to be done; and although a great proportion of the last appropriation has been expended on the former place, yet some further views will be submitted to Congress for rendering its security entirely adequate against naval enterprise. A view of what has been done at the several places, and of what is proposed to be done, shall be communicated as soon as the several reports are received. Of the gun boats authorized by the act of December last, it has been thought necessary to build only 103 in the present year. These, with those before possessed, are sufficient for the harbors and waters most exposed, and the residents will require little time for their construction when it shall be deemed necessary. Under the act of the last session for raising an additional military force so many officers were immediately appointed as were necessary for carrying on the business of recruiting, and in proportion as it advanced others have been added. We have reason to believe their success has been satisfactory, although such returns have not yet been received as enable me to present you a statement of the numbers engaged. I have not thought it necessary in the course of the last season to call for any general detachments of militia or of volunteers under the laws passed for that purpose. For the ensuing season, however, they will be required to be in readiness should their service be wanted. Some small and special detachments have been necessary to maintain the laws of embargo on that portion of our northern frontier which offered peculiar facilities for evasion, but these were replaced as soon as it could be done by bodies of new recruits. By the aid of these and of the armed vessels called into service in other quarters the spirit of disobedience and abuse, which manifested itself early and with sensible effect while we were unprepared to meet it, has been considerably repressed. Considering the extraordinary character of the times in which we live, our attention should unremittingly be fixed on the safety of our country. For a people who are free, and who mean to remain so, a well organized and armed militia is their best security. It is therefore incumbent on us at every meeting to revise the condition of the militia, and to ask ourselves if it is prepared to repel a powerful enemy at every point of our territories exposed to invasion. Some of the States have paid a laudable attention to this object, but every degree of neglect is to be found among others. Congress alone having the power to produce an uniform state of preparation in this great organ of defense, the interests which they so deeply feel in their own and their country's security will present this as among the most important objects of their deliberation. Under the acts of March 11 and April 23 respecting arms, the difficulty of procuring them from abroad during the present situation and dispositions of Europe induced us to direct our whole efforts to the means of internal supply. The public factories have therefore been enlarged, additional machineries erected, and, in proportion as artificers can be found or formed, their effect, already more than doubled, may be increased so as to keep pace with the yearly increase of the militia. The annual sums appropriated by the latter have been directed to the encouragement of private factories of arms, and contracts have been entered into with individual undertakers to nearly the amount of the first year's appropriation. The suspension of our foreign commerce, produced by the injustice of the belligerent powers and the consequent losses and sacrifices of our citizens are subjects of just concern. The situation into which we have thus been forced has impelled us to apply a portion of our industry and capital to internal manufactures and improvements. The extent of this conversion is daily increasing, and little doubt remains that the establishments formed and forming will, under the auspices of cheaper materials and subsistence, the freedom of labor from taxation with us, and of protecting duties and prohibitions, become permanent. The commerce with the Indians, too, within our own boundaries is likely to receive abundant aliment from the same internal source, and will secure to them peace and the progress of civilization, undisturbed by practices hostile to both. The accounts of the receipts and expenditures during the year ending the 30th of September last being not yet made up, a correct statement will hereafter be transmitted from the Treasury. In the mean time it is ascertained that the receipts have amounted to near $18M, which, with the $8.5M in the Treasury at the beginning of the year, have enabled us, after meeting the current demands and interest incurred, to pay $2.3M of the principal of our funded debt, and left us in the Treasury on that day near $14M. Of these, $5.35M will be necessary to pay what will be due on the 1st day of January next, which will complete the reimbursement of the 8% stock. These payments, with those made in the 6.5 years preceding, will have extinguished $33.58M of the principal of the funded debt, being the whole which could be paid or purchased within the limits of the law and of our contracts, and the amount of principal thus discharged will have liberated the revenue from about $2M of interest and added that sum annually to the disposable surplus. The probable accumulation of the surpluses of revenue beyond what can be applied to the payment of the public debt whenever the freedom and safety of our commerce shall be restored merits the consideration of Congress. Shall it lie unproductive in the public vaults? Shall the revenue be reduced? Or shall it not rather be appropriated to the improvements of roads, canals, rivers, education, and other great foundations of prosperity and union under the powers which Congress may already possess or such amendment to the Constitution as may be approved by the States? While uncertain of the course of things, the time may be advantageously employed in obtaining the powers necessary for a system of improvement, should that be thought best. Availing myself of this the last occasion which will occur of addressing the two Houses of the Legislature at their meeting, I can not omit the expression of my sincere gratitude for the repeated proofs of confidence manifested to me by themselves and their predecessors since my call to the administration and the many indulgences experienced at their hands. These same grateful acknowledgements are due to my fellow citizens generally, whose support has been my great encouragement under all embarrassments. In the transaction of their business I can not have escaped error. It is incident to our imperfect nature. But I may say with truth my errors have been of the understanding, not of intention, and that the advancement of their rights and interests has been the constant motive for every measure. On these considerations I solicit their indulgence. Looking forward with anxiety to future destinies, I trust that in their steady character, unshaken by difficulties, in their love of liberty, obedience to law, and support of the public authorities, I see a sure guaranty of the permanence of our Republic; and, retiring from the charge of their affairs, I carry with me the consolation of a firm persuasion that Heaven has in store for our beloved country long ages to come of prosperity and happiness.
it would have been a source fellow citizens of much gratification if our last communications from europe had enabled me to inform you that the belligerent nations whose disregard of neutral rights has been so destructive to our commerce had become awakened to the duty and true policy of revoking their unrighteous edicts that no means might be omitted to produce this salutary effect i lost no time in availing myself of the act authorizing a suspension in whole or in part of the several embargo laws our ministers at london and paris were instructed to explain to the respective governments there our disposition to exercise the authority in such manner as would withdraw the pretext on which the aggressions were originally founded and open the way for a renewal of that commercial intercourse which it was alleged on all sides had been reluctantly obstructed as each of those governments had pledged its readiness to concur in renouncing a measure which reached its adversary through the incontestable rights of neutrals only and as the measure had been assumed by each as a retaliation for an asserted acquiescence in the aggression of the other it was reasonably expected that the occasion would have been seized by both for evincing the sincerity of their professions and for restoring to the commerce of the united states its legitimate freedom the instructions to our ministers with respect to the different belligerents were necessarily modified with a reference to their different circumstances and to the condition annexed by law to the executive power of suspension requiring a decree of security to our commerce which would not result from a repeal of the decrees of france instead of a pledge therefore of a suspension of the embargo as to her in case of such a repeal it was presumed that a sufficient inducement might be found in other considerations and particularly in the change produced by a compliance with our just demands by one belligerent and a refusal by the other in the relations between the other and the united states to great britain whose power on the ocean is so ascendant it was deemed not inconsistent with that condition to state explicitly that on her rescinding her orders in relation to the united states their trade would be opened with her and remain shut to her enemy in case of his failure to rescind his decrees also from france no answer has been received nor any indication that the requisite change in her decrees is contemplated the favorable reception of the proposition to great britain was the less to be doubted as her orders of council had not only been referred for their vindication to an acquiescence on the part of the united states no longer to be pretended but as the arrangement proposed whilst it resisted the illegal decrees of france involved moreover substantially the precise advantages professedly aimed at by the british orders the arrangement has nevertheless been rejected this candid and liberal experiment having thus failed and no other event having occurred on which a suspension of the embargo by the executive was authorized it necessarily remains in the extent originally given to it we have the satisfaction however to reflect that in return for the privations imposed by the measure and which our fellow citizens in general have borne with patriotism it has had the important effects of saving our mariners and our vast mercantile property as well as of affording time for prosecuting the defensive and provisional measures called for by the occasion it has demonstrated to foreign nations the moderation and firmness which govern our councils and to our citizens the necessity of uniting in support of the laws and the rights of their country and has thus long frustrated those usurpations and spoliations which if resisted involved war if submitted to sacrificed a vital principle of our national independence under a continuance of the belligerent measures which in defiance of laws which consecrate the rights of neutrals overspread the ocean with danger it will rest with the wisdom of congress to decide on the course best adapted to such a state of things and bringing with them as they do from every part of the union the sentiments of our constituents my confidence is strengthened that in forming this decision they will with an unerring regard to the essential rights and interests of the nation weigh and compare the painful alternatives out of which a choice is to be made nor should i do justice to the virtues which on other occasions have marked the character of our fellow citizens if i did not cherish an equal confidence that the alternative chosen whatever it may be will be maintained with all the fortitude and patriotism which the crisis ought to inspire the documents containing the correspondences on the subject of the foreign edicts against our commerce with the instructions given to our ministers at london and paris are now laid before you the communications made to congress at their last session explained the posture in which the close of the discussions relating to the attack by a british ship of war on the frigate chesapeake left a subject on which the nation had manifested so honorable a sensibility every view of what had passed authorized a believe that immediate steps would be taken by the british government for redressing a wrong which the more it was investigated appeared the more clearly to require what had not been provided for in the special mission it is found that no steps have been taken for the purpose on the contrary it will be seen in the documents laid before you that the inadmissible preliminary which obstructed the adjustment is still adhered to and moreover that it is now brought into connection with the distinct and irrelative case of the orders in council the instructions which had been given to our minister at london with a view to facilitate if necessary the reparation claimed by the united states are included in the documents communicated our relations with the other powers of europe have undergone no material changes since your last session the important negotiations with spain which had been alternately suspended and resumed necessarily experience a pause under the extraordinary and interesting crisis which distinguishes her internal situation with the barbary powers we continue in harmony with the exception of an unjustifiable proceeding of the dey of algiers toward our consul to that regency its character and circumstances are now laid before you and will enable you to decide how far it may either now or hereafter call for any measures not within the limits of the executive authority with our indian neighbors the public peace has been steadily maintained some instances of individual wrong have as at other times taken place but in no wise implicating the will of the nation beyond the mississippi the ioways the sacs and the alabamas have delivered up for trial and punishment individuals from among themselves accused of murdering citizens of the united states on this side of the mississippi the creeks are exerting themselves to arrest offenders of the same kind and the choctaws have manifested their readiness and desire for amicable and just arrangements respecting depredations committed by disorderly persons of their tribe and generally from a conviction that we consider them as a part of ourselves and cherish with sincerity their rights and interests the attachment of the indian tribes is gaining strength daily is extending from the nearer to the more remote and will amply requite us for the justice and friendship practiced toward them husbandry and household manufacture are advancing among them more rapidly with the southern than northern tribes from circumstances of soil and climate and one of the two great divisions of the cherokee nation have now under consideration to solicit the citizenship of the united states and to be identified with us in laws and government in such progressive manner as we shall think best in consequence of the appropriations of the last session of congress for the security of our sea port towns and harbors such works of defense have been erected as seemed to be called for by the situation of the several places their relative importance and the scale of expense indicated by the amount of the appropriation these works will chiefly be finished in the course of the present season except at new york and new orleans where most was to be done and although a great proportion of the last appropriation has been expended on the former place yet some further views will be submitted to congress for rendering its security entirely adequate against naval enterprise a view of what has been done at the several places and of what is proposed to be done shall be communicated as soon as the several reports are received of the gun boats authorized by the act of december last it has been thought necessary to build only 103 in the present year these with those before possessed are sufficient for the harbors and waters most exposed and the residents will require little time for their construction when it shall be deemed necessary under the act of the last session for raising an additional military force so many officers were immediately appointed as were necessary for carrying on the business of recruiting and in proportion as it advanced others have been added we have reason to believe their success has been satisfactory although such returns have not yet been received as enable me to present you a statement of the numbers engaged i have not thought it necessary in the course of the last season to call for any general detachments of militia or of volunteers under the laws passed for that purpose for the ensuing season however they will be required to be in readiness should their service be wanted some small and special detachments have been necessary to maintain the laws of embargo on that portion of our northern frontier which offered peculiar facilities for evasion but these were replaced as soon as it could be done by bodies of new recruits by the aid of these and of the armed vessels called into service in other quarters the spirit of disobedience and abuse which manifested itself early and with sensible effect while we were unprepared to meet it has been considerably repressed considering the extraordinary character of the times in which we live our attention should unremittingly be fixed on the safety of our country for a people who are free and who mean to remain so a well organized and armed militia is their best security it is therefore incumbent on us at every meeting to revise the condition of the militia and to ask ourselves if it is prepared to repel a powerful enemy at every point of our territories exposed to invasion some of the states have paid a laudable attention to this object but every degree of neglect is to be found among others congress alone having the power to produce an uniform state of preparation in this great organ of defense the interests which they so deeply feel in their own and their country security will present this as among the most important objects of their deliberation under the acts of march 11 and april 23 respecting arms the difficulty of procuring them from abroad during the present situation and dispositions of europe induced us to direct our whole efforts to the means of internal supply the public factories have therefore been enlarged additional machineries erected and in proportion as artificers can be found or formed their effect already more than doubled may be increased so as to keep pace with the yearly increase of the militia the annual sums appropriated by the latter have been directed to the encouragement of private factories of arms and contracts have been entered into with individual undertakers to nearly the amount of the first year appropriation the suspension of our foreign commerce produced by the injustice of the belligerent powers and the consequent losses and sacrifices of our citizens are subjects of just concern the situation into which we have thus been forced has impelled us to apply a portion of our industry and capital to internal manufactures and improvements the extent of this conversion is daily increasing and little doubt remains that the establishments formed and forming will under the auspices of cheaper materials and subsistence the freedom of labor from taxation with us and of protecting duties and prohibitions become permanent the commerce with the indians too within our own boundaries is likely to receive abundant aliment from the same internal source and will secure to them peace and the progress of civilization undisturbed by practices hostile to both the accounts of the receipts and expenditures during the year ending the 30th of september last being not yet made up a correct statement will hereafter be transmitted from the treasury in the mean time it is ascertained that the receipts have amounted to near 18m which with the in the treasury at the beginning of the year have enabled us after meeting the current demands and interest incurred to pay of the principal of our funded debt and left us in the treasury on that day near 14m of these will be necessary to pay what will be due on the 1st day of january next which will complete the reimbursement of the 8 stock these payments with those made in the years preceding will have extinguished of the principal of the funded debt being the whole which could be paid or purchased within the limits of the law and of our contracts and the amount of principal thus discharged will have liberated the revenue from about 2m of interest and added that sum annually to the disposable surplus the probable accumulation of the surpluses of revenue beyond what can be applied to the payment of the public debt whenever the freedom and safety of our commerce shall be restored merits the consideration of congress shall it lie unproductive in the public vaults shall the revenue be reduced or shall it not rather be appropriated to the improvements of roads canals rivers education and other great foundations of prosperity and union under the powers which congress may already possess or such amendment to the constitution as may be approved by the states while uncertain of the course of things the time may be advantageously employed in obtaining the powers necessary for a system of improvement should that be thought best availing myself of this the last occasion which will occur of addressing the two houses of the legislature at their meeting i can not omit the expression of my sincere gratitude for the repeated proofs of confidence manifested to me by themselves and their predecessors since my call to the administration and the many indulgences experienced at their hands these same grateful acknowledgements are due to my fellow citizens generally whose support has been my great encouragement under all embarrassments in the transaction of their business i can not have escaped error it is incident to our imperfect nature but i may say with truth my errors have been of the understanding not of intention and that the advancement of their rights and interests has been the constant motive for every measure on these considerations i solicit their indulgence looking forward with anxiety to future destinies i trust that in their steady character unshaken by difficulties in their love of liberty obedience to law and support of the public authorities i see a sure guaranty of the permanence of our republic and retiring from the charge of their affairs i carry with me the consolation of a firm persuasion that heaven has in store for our beloved country long ages to come of prosperity and happiness
would source fellow citizens much gratification last communications europe enabled inform belligerent nations whose disregard neutral rights destructive commerce become awakened duty true policy revoking unrighteous edicts means might omitted produce salutary effect lost time availing act authorizing suspension whole part several embargo laws ministers london paris instructed explain respective governments disposition exercise authority manner would withdraw pretext aggressions originally founded open way renewal commercial intercourse alleged sides reluctantly obstructed governments pledged readiness concur renouncing measure reached adversary incontestable rights neutrals measure assumed retaliation asserted acquiescence aggression reasonably expected occasion would seized evincing sincerity professions restoring commerce united states legitimate freedom instructions ministers respect different belligerents necessarily modified reference different circumstances condition annexed law executive power suspension requiring decree security commerce would result repeal decrees france instead pledge therefore suspension embargo case repeal presumed sufficient inducement might found considerations particularly change produced compliance demands one belligerent refusal relations united states great britain whose power ocean ascendant deemed inconsistent condition state explicitly rescinding orders relation united states trade would opened remain shut enemy case failure rescind decrees also france answer received indication requisite change decrees contemplated favorable reception proposition great britain less doubted orders council referred vindication acquiescence part united states longer pretended arrangement proposed whilst resisted illegal decrees france involved moreover substantially precise advantages professedly aimed british orders arrangement nevertheless rejected candid liberal experiment thus failed event occurred suspension embargo executive authorized necessarily remains extent originally given satisfaction however reflect return privations imposed measure fellow citizens general borne patriotism important effects saving mariners vast mercantile property well affording time prosecuting defensive provisional measures called occasion demonstrated foreign nations moderation firmness govern councils citizens necessity uniting support laws rights country thus long frustrated usurpations spoliations resisted involved war submitted sacrificed vital principle national independence continuance belligerent measures defiance laws consecrate rights neutrals overspread ocean danger rest wisdom congress decide course best adapted state things bringing every part union sentiments constituents confidence strengthened forming decision unerring regard essential rights interests nation weigh compare painful alternatives choice made justice virtues occasions marked character fellow citizens cherish equal confidence alternative chosen whatever may maintained fortitude patriotism crisis ought inspire documents containing correspondences subject foreign edicts commerce instructions given ministers london paris laid communications made congress last session explained posture close discussions relating attack british ship war frigate chesapeake left subject nation manifested honorable sensibility every view passed authorized believe immediate steps would taken british government redressing wrong investigated appeared clearly require provided special mission found steps taken purpose contrary seen documents laid inadmissible preliminary obstructed adjustment still adhered moreover brought connection distinct irrelative case orders council instructions given minister london view facilitate necessary reparation claimed united states included documents communicated relations powers europe undergone material changes since last session important negotiations spain alternately suspended resumed necessarily experience pause extraordinary interesting crisis distinguishes internal situation barbary powers continue harmony exception unjustifiable proceeding dey algiers toward consul regency character circumstances laid enable decide far may either hereafter call measures within limits executive authority indian neighbors public peace steadily maintained instances individual wrong times taken place wise implicating nation beyond mississippi ioways sacs alabamas delivered trial punishment individuals among accused murdering citizens united states side mississippi creeks exerting arrest offenders kind choctaws manifested readiness desire amicable arrangements respecting depredations committed disorderly persons tribe generally conviction consider part cherish sincerity rights interests attachment indian tribes gaining strength daily extending nearer remote amply requite us justice friendship practiced toward husbandry household manufacture advancing among rapidly southern northern tribes circumstances soil climate one two great divisions cherokee nation consideration solicit citizenship united states identified us laws government progressive manner shall think best consequence appropriations last session congress security sea port towns harbors works defense erected seemed called situation several places relative importance scale expense indicated amount appropriation works chiefly finished course present season except new york new orleans done although great proportion last appropriation expended former place yet views submitted congress rendering security entirely adequate naval enterprise view done several places proposed done shall communicated soon several reports received gun boats authorized act december last thought necessary build 103 present year possessed sufficient harbors waters exposed residents require little time construction shall deemed necessary act last session raising additional military force many officers immediately appointed necessary carrying business recruiting proportion advanced others added reason believe success satisfactory although returns yet received enable present statement numbers engaged thought necessary course last season call general detachments militia volunteers laws passed purpose ensuing season however required readiness service wanted small special detachments necessary maintain laws embargo portion northern frontier offered peculiar facilities evasion replaced soon could done bodies new recruits aid armed vessels called service quarters spirit disobedience abuse manifested early sensible effect unprepared meet considerably repressed considering extraordinary character times live attention unremittingly fixed safety country people free mean remain well organized armed militia best security therefore incumbent us every meeting revise condition militia ask prepared repel powerful enemy every point territories exposed invasion states paid laudable attention object every degree neglect found among others congress alone power produce uniform state preparation great organ defense interests deeply feel country security present among important objects deliberation acts march 11 april 23 respecting arms difficulty procuring abroad present situation dispositions europe induced us direct whole efforts means internal supply public factories therefore enlarged additional machineries erected proportion artificers found formed effect already doubled may increased keep pace yearly increase militia annual sums appropriated latter directed encouragement private factories arms contracts entered individual undertakers nearly amount first year appropriation suspension foreign commerce produced injustice belligerent powers consequent losses sacrifices citizens subjects concern situation thus forced impelled us apply portion industry capital internal manufactures improvements extent conversion daily increasing little doubt remains establishments formed forming auspices cheaper materials subsistence freedom labor taxation us protecting duties prohibitions become permanent commerce indians within boundaries likely receive abundant aliment internal source secure peace progress civilization undisturbed practices hostile accounts receipts expenditures year ending 30th september last yet made correct statement hereafter transmitted treasury mean time ascertained receipts amounted near 18m treasury beginning year enabled us meeting current demands interest incurred pay principal funded debt left us treasury day near 14m necessary pay due 1st day january next complete reimbursement 8 stock payments made years preceding extinguished principal funded debt whole could paid purchased within limits law contracts amount principal thus discharged liberated revenue 2m interest added sum annually disposable surplus probable accumulation surpluses revenue beyond applied payment public debt whenever freedom safety commerce shall restored merits consideration congress shall lie unproductive public vaults shall revenue reduced shall rather appropriated improvements roads canals rivers education great foundations prosperity union powers congress may already possess amendment constitution may approved states uncertain course things time may advantageously employed obtaining powers necessary system improvement thought best availing last occasion occur addressing two houses legislature meeting omit expression sincere gratitude repeated proofs confidence manifested predecessors since call administration many indulgences experienced hands grateful acknowledgements due fellow citizens generally whose support great encouragement embarrassments transaction business escaped error incident imperfect nature may say truth errors understanding intention advancement rights interests constant motive every measure considerations solicit indulgence looking forward anxiety future destinies trust steady character unshaken difficulties love liberty obedience law support public authorities see sure guaranty permanence republic retiring charge affairs carry consolation firm persuasion heaven store beloved country long ages come prosperity happiness
would source fellow citizen much gratification last communication europe enable inform belligerent nation whose disregard neutral right destructive commerce become awaken duty true policy revoke unrighteous edict mean might omit produce salutary effect lose time avail act authorize suspension whole part several embargo law minister london paris instruct explain respective government disposition exercise authority manner would withdraw pretext aggression originally found open way renewal commercial intercourse allege side reluctantly obstruct government pledge readiness concur renounce measure reach adversary incontestable right neutral measure assume retaliation assert acquiescence aggression reasonably expect occasion would seize evince sincerity profession restore commerce united state legitimate freedom instruction minister respect different belligerent necessarily modify reference different circumstance condition annex law executive power suspension require decree security commerce would result repeal decree france instead pledge therefore suspension embargo case repeal presume sufficient inducement might find consideration particularly change produce compliance demand one belligerent refusal relation united state great britain whose power ocean ascendant deem inconsistent condition state explicitly rescind order relation united state trade would open remain shut enemy case failure rescind decree also france answer receive indication requisite change decree contemplate favorable reception proposition great britain less doubted order council refer vindication acquiescence part united state longer pretend arrangement propose whilst resist illegal decree france involve moreover substantially precise advantage professedly aim british order arrangement nevertheless reject candid liberal experiment thus fail event occur suspension embargo executive authorize necessarily remain extent originally give satisfaction however reflect return privation impose measure fellow citizens general borne patriotism important effect save mariner vast mercantile property well affording time prosecute defensive provisional measure call occasion demonstrate foreign nation moderation firmness govern council citizens necessity uniting support law right country thus long frustrated usurpation spoliation resist involved war submit sacrificed vital principle national independence continuance belligerent measure defiance law consecrate right neutral overspread ocean danger rest wisdom congress decide course best adapt state thing bring every part union sentiments constituent confidence strengthen form decision unerring regard essential right interest nation weigh compare painful alternative choice make justice virtue occasion mark character fellow citizen cherish equal confidence alternative choose whatever may maintain fortitude patriotism crisis ought inspire document contain correspondence subject foreign edict commerce instruction give minister london paris lay communication make congress last session explain posture close discussion relate attack british ship war frigate chesapeake leave subject nation manifest honorable sensibility every view pass authorize believe immediate step would take british government redress wrong investigate appear clearly require provide special mission find step take purpose contrary see document laid inadmissible preliminary obstruct adjustment still adhere moreover bring connection distinct irrelative case order council instruction give minister london view facilitate necessary reparation claim united state include document communicate relation power europe undergone material change since last session important negotiation spain alternately suspend resume necessarily experience pause extraordinary interesting crisis distinguishes internal situation barbary power continue harmony exception unjustifiable proceeding dey algiers toward consul regency character circumstance lay enable decide far may either hereafter call measure within limit executive authority indian neighbor public peace steadily maintain instance individual wrong time take place wise implicate nation beyond mississippi ioway sacs alabamas deliver trial punishment individual among accused murder citizen united state side mississippi creek exert arrest offender kind choctaw manifest readiness desire amicable arrangement respect depredation commit disorderly person tribe generally conviction consider part cherish sincerity right interest attachment indian tribe gain strength daily extend near remote amply requite u justice friendship practice toward husbandry household manufacture advance among rapidly southern northern tribe circumstance soil climate one two great division cherokee nation consideration solicit citizenship united state identify u law government progressive manner shall think best consequence appropriation last session congress security sea port town harbor work defense erect seem call situation several place relative importance scale expense indicate amount appropriation work chiefly finish course present season except new york new orleans do although great proportion last appropriation expend former place yet view submit congress render security entirely adequate naval enterprise view do several place propose do shall communicate soon several report receive gun boat authorize act december last thought necessary build 103 present year possess sufficient harbor water expose resident require little time construction shall deem necessary act last session raise additional military force many officer immediately appoint necessary carrying business recruit proportion advance others add reason believe success satisfactory although return yet receive enable present statement number engage think necessary course last season call general detachment militia volunteer law pass purpose ensue season however required readiness service want small special detachment necessary maintain law embargo portion northern frontier offer peculiar facility evasion replace soon could do body new recruit aid arm vessel call service quarter spirit disobedience abuse manifest early sensible effect unprepared meet considerably repress consider extraordinary character time live attention unremittingly fix safety country people free mean remain well organize arm militia best security therefore incumbent u every meeting revise condition militia ask prepare repel powerful enemy every point territory expose invasion state pay laudable attention object every degree neglect find among others congress alone power produce uniform state preparation great organ defense interest deeply feel country security present among important object deliberation act march 11 april 23 respect arm difficulty procure abroad present situation disposition europe induce u direct whole effort mean internal supply public factory therefore enlarge additional machinery erect proportion artificer find formed effect already double may increase keep pace yearly increase militia annual sum appropriate latter direct encouragement private factory arm contract enter individual undertaker nearly amount first year appropriation suspension foreign commerce produce injustice belligerent power consequent loss sacrifice citizen subject concern situation thus force impelled u apply portion industry capital internal manufacture improvement extent conversion daily increase little doubt remain establishment form form auspex cheap material subsistence freedom labor taxation u protect duty prohibition become permanent commerce indian within boundary likely receive abundant aliment internal source secure peace progress civilization undisturbed practice hostile account receipt expenditure year end 30th september last yet make correct statement hereafter transmit treasury mean time ascertain receipt amount near 18m treasury begin year enable u meet current demand interest incur pay principal funded debt leave u treasury day near 14m necessary pay due 1st day january next complete reimbursement 8 stock payment make year precede extinguish principal funded debt whole could pay purchase within limit law contract amount principal thus discharge liberate revenue 2m interest add sum annually disposable surplus probable accumulation surplus revenue beyond applied payment public debt whenever freedom safety commerce shall restore merit consideration congress shall lie unproductive public vault shall revenue reduce shall rather appropriated improvement roads canal river education great foundation prosperity union power congress may already possess amendment constitution may approve state uncertain course thing time may advantageously employ obtain power necessary system improvement think best avail last occasion occur address two house legislature meet omit expression sincere gratitude repeat proof confidence manifest predecessor since call administration many indulgence experience hand grateful acknowledgement due fellow citizen generally whose support great encouragement embarrassment transaction business escape error incident imperfect nature may say truth error understand intention advancement right interest constant motive every measure consideration solicit indulgence look forward anxiety future destinies trust steady character unshaken difficulty love liberty obedience law support public authority see sure guaranty permanence republic retire charge affair carry consolation firm persuasion heaven store beloved country long age come prosperity happiness