Newspaper Page Text
BV JAMES GARDNER.
<§mtui JMmrrUsrmfnts.
NEW GUNS, PISTOLS, &C.
tfr.jaJ steel, just above the Augusta Hotel.
subscriber has just received a large addi
tion to his former stock of GUNS and GUN
APPARATUS, which makes his assort
ment decidedly the best in tho city—consisting of :
Double and Single Barreled GUNS, all sixes and
Allen’s, and other REVOLVERS; also,
the Single Barreled Self-cocking and RIFLE PIS
TOL, ded barrels.
4 great variety of Powder Flasks and Shot
Bftj?, ami Game Bags, of the finest patterns.
Also, Percussion Caps, all varieties, from the
(.jamon G. 1). to tho finest Westley Richard’s wa
ter proof-
Cleaning Rodr, Drinking Flasks, Dog Collars,
Hunting Horns, Nipple Wrenches, Ac. Ac.
Pocket and Pen Knives, Razors, Bowie Knives,
powder, by keg or in canisters, all varieties.
Shot, by the bag or retail.
RIFLES and Double GUNS, of my own make,
on 9 barrel Rifie and the other Shot, a splendid
shooting article.
k N. B.—RIFLES mado to order, and all kinds of
p.ESTOCKING and REPAIRING done in the
best manner, and warranted.
Also, Keys fitted and Door Locks repaired, at
short notice. E. 11. ROGERS,
jane 16
machine and blacksmith shop.
Corner of Turiggs and Watkins St. Augusta, Ga.
Tilt SUBSCRIBERS, having
coatly fitted up their establish
merit for the purpose of TURNING,
FINISHING, ami BLACKSMITH- ggt&ztzsM
jX’d IN GENERAL, arc now prepared to execute
borders at the shortest notice, such as Spindles,
p -anks. and Iron of all kinds for Mills. Also, Steam
j jjw* Repaired with neatness and dispatch,
promptly attended to.
X. 15 AVehave on hand a new Twelve Ilorso
twice w ;\ich we offer cheap for cash
-1 6m LORD A SLATER.
COP ARTNERSHIP NOTICE.
THE subscribers having associated themselves
together in the Boot and Shoemaking business, I
have purchased tho entire stock of A. DOUBET,
take this method of informing the public and the ,
patrons of the late establishment, that they are ]
prepared to execute all orders in the manufacturing, 1
as heretofore; and will also keep on hand a general i
assortment of ready mado work, Ladies, Misses and (
Childrens Boots and Shoos of all descriptions. To
gether with a genoral assortment of Gentlemons t
wear. To which they invite the pbulic to give 1
them a call and examine for themselves. All c
work purchased of them is warranted,
JOHN PARR* ]
J.D. SMITH.
Augusta Ga., July 7th 1853. july 8
CLEAR THE TRACK. ' J
5000 PAIR plantation BROGANS, double ' c
1000 pair wax BROGANS. j
5000 pair house servant SHOES. •
100 cases thick and kip BOOTS. f
— ■ i
A nuperior stock of fine LADIES GAITERS, .
and Gentlemen's fine French Glove top BUTTON j
BOOTS, comprising a general assortment oi Goods j
far the season at wholesale, bv package or dozen s
at HENRY DALY’S, J
sep22 opposite United States Hotel. :
NEW GOODS.
P. Sr M. (ULLAHER
HAVE ju*t received the following GOODS, to
which they respectfully invite thej'attention
of the public:
Rich Bonnet and Neck RIBBONS.
Black and Colored Velvet do.
Black Giuips and Fringes.
Black Lace, all w ; dths.
Embroidered Chemiaetts and Under Sieeves.
Embroidered Cud's and Collars.
Black and Colored Kid Gloves.
Jaconets and Swiss Inccrting and Edging.
E übroidered Linen Cambric Handkorchifes.
Linen Lawn and Linen Cambric.
Brocade and Plaid Silks.
Bombaaenes and Alpacas
Also a select stock of Ladies and Gents. Hose,
which will be sold at very reduced prices.
Shirtings, Osnaburgs and Kerseys, at factory
prices. ts sept 11
SPECTACLES.
f F YOU will and must wear SPECTACLES, got
1 them exactly suited to the eye, or they will do
ffi ore iiarm than good. THE OPTOMETER is an
inurnment invented by Prof. Stampfor, of the
School of Vienni, lor the purpose of
measuring with scientific exactness the degree of
convexity t *he eye had lost by age, and it applies
accurate num hers of glasses to counteract the de
fect. None, thetf. need hereafter complain th»t
their spectacles pain their eyes, who call on us to
do fitted with Spectates. Come and see for your
selves. Now, though wd have taken much pains to
obtain this instrument, as well to inform ourselves
with reference to the application of Glasses to
remedy the defects of vision, we take pleasure in
informing our patrons and the public, that we have
become sole agents of Messrs. Ball & Co., for the
sale of thoir recently invented Cups, which render
spectacles entirely useless, even to the most Aged
persons, where eyes have lost their convexity from
age We append, in favor of this invention, the
■following letter from Prof. Finney, of Oberlin Col
lege.
Tho fact in regard to the improvement in my
sight by tho use of your Cups are these:
I was woaring GLASSES of 18 inches focus —I
have had them change d twice; and am now wri
ting in a bad light with glasses of 48 inches focus,
"which is tho lowest magnifying power used by
Messrs. Pike. I can now read common print with
ease with the lowest magnifying glasses. I have
used them agreeably to your directions about four
weeks. I gee not why I may not oxpect, in a short
time, to have my sight quite restored by continu
ing the use of the cups. I cannot hut regard this
discovery as of groat value. Yours, truly,
(Signed) C. G. Finney.
P- S. lamin my sixtieth year, and have worn
glasses about ten years.
. Teb’y. 7, 1853.—Prof. Finney writes—l have,
for the last six or eight months, used them (the
Cups) but seldom. Tho improved state of my
*>gbt rendering me forgetful and neglectful of their
steady use. I have received much benefit and no
Perceptible injury whatever from their use.
With my blinds open I read comfortably, and
write easily without glatses.
Other letter* can ho seen in pamphlet, published
0 J Messrs. Ball A Co., in our possession.
Oct 16 OSBORNE A WHITLOCK.
Sole Agents tor Richmond county.
11ST RECEIVED, a fresh assortment of Boy's
” Cloth CABS, various colors and styles;
Boy's Plush CAPS, various colors and styles;
do. fine Moleskin HATS, new styles;
Misses’ Black Drab and White Bloomer HATS;
Geut's Cloth and Plush CAPS, new styles;
do. Julien and Opera HATS
GEO. W. FERRY,
\ TV*B.E BOOKS. —Lives of the Queens of Eng-
YVJL latid, by J. P. Smith, Esq, author of Stan*
field Hall, Amy Lawrence, Ac.
Life of Benj. R II ay don, Historical Paint* r,
from his Autobiography and Journals, edited and
compiled by Tom Taylor.
History of England in verse, from the invasion of
Julius Caesar to the present time, by Hannah
Townsend.
The Young Lady's Home, by Mrs. Louisa C.Tut- I
hill. Just received and for sale by
nov 29 JdcKINNK A HALL
CHARLES AUCHESTER. a Memorial, by E.
Berger.
Countess of Arnhein, or Master Timothy’s Book
Case, by G. W. M. Reynolds.
The Iron Rule, or Tyranny in the Household,
by T. S. Arthur.
Jack Adams, the Mutineer, by Capt. Frederick
Chamier, R. N.
The Monks Revenge, or the Secret Enemy, by
.lamuol Spring, Esq. Just reeeeived and for sale
fcy HOT 29 MoKINNE A HALL.
dll)f iDailii (TimslttutioHalib; anti Hemtblic
NEW AND UNRIVALLED RAIL RAOD
ROUTE TO THE NORTH.
VIA THE
WILMINGTON A MAN. RAIL ROAD:
Through in the same time with the great North
ern. Mail , and Avoiding Sea Sickness.
TRAVELLERS are respectfully informed that
one hundred anti thirty miles of the Wilming
ton and Manchester Railroad are completed and in
successful operation, and connections have been
formed by first class Four Horse Post Coaches, over
the unfinished part of the Road. The following is
the schedule.
Leave Augusta at A. M.
“ Wilmington, at 8 A. M.
Arrive at Weldon at 3 P. M.
“ at Baltimore at 6 A. M.
“ “ Philadelphia at 1 P. M.
“ “ New York at 6-30 P. M.
Time from Augusta to Wilmington 26 hours.
“ “ Wilmington to New York,. .34-30 “
At TV ilmington tho connection is made with the
8 „'elock A.SI. Express Train.
At Weldon, passengers can have choice of Routes,
dither by Seaboard & Roanoke Railroad and Bay
Line of Steamers, or by Railroad through Peters
burg, Richmond and Washington City, to Balti
more. Through Tickets by either of these Linos
can be purchased in Wilmington.
Through Tickots from Montgomery to Charles
ton will bo received on tho South Carolina Railroad,
between Augusta and tho Wilmington and Man
chester Railroad.
Passengers desirous of going North by this
Route, will have their Baggage checked at Augus
ta, to tho Wilmington and Manchester Railroad.
Any other informaeion can be obtained of Dr.
J. L. Keen, Agent at Augusta.
L. J. FLEMING,
Sup. Wil. Sc Man. R. R.
july 14 d&ctf
THROUGH FARE FROM CHARLESTON TO
BALTIMORE sls, TO PHILADELPHIA
$ L 7.50, AND TO NEW YORK S2O.
SSiSIIiaBSE
THE GREAT MAIL ROUTE from CHARLES
TON, SO. CA,
LEAVING the wharf at the foot of Laurens
street daily, after the arrival of the Southern
cars, via Wilmington, N. C., from which point two
daily trains are despatched, at 8 A. M. and 2 F.
M.; the 8 o'clock only connecting at Weldon, N. C.,
with the Seaboard and Roanoke Railroad to Nor
folk.* thence by steamers to Baltimore, and both
trains connecting at Weldon with tho lines to Pe
tersburg, Richmond, Washington, Baltimore. Phila
delphia, and New York. The public is respectful
ly informed that the steamers of these lines are in
firstrate condition, and are navigated by well known
and experienced commanders; the Rail Roads are
in fine order, (the Wilmington and Weldon, as
well as the Seaboard and Roanoke, having recent
ly been relaid with heavy T rail,) thereby securing
both safety and despatch. By these routes, passen
gers availing themselves of the first train, may reach
Baltimore in 41) hours, Philadelphia in 45 hours,
and New York in hours; and hy the second
train, they arrive in Baltimore in 50 hours, Phila
delphia in 56 hours, and New York in 61£ hours.
Through tickets can alone be had from E.
WINSLOW, Agent of the Wilmington and Raleigh
Rail Road Company, at the office of the Company,
foot of Laurens-street, Charleston, S. C., to whom
please apply. sep 25
U. S. MAIL LINE.
Through in 48 to 50 Hours.
SEMI-WEEKLY STEAYI SHIP LINE.
Leave adgek’s wharves
every SATURDAY and
NE3DAY, after the arrival of
cars from thhe South and West.
ON SATURDAYS,
The new and splendid Ocean Steamers.
JAMES ADGER, ) John Dickinson,,
1500 tons, j Commander.
MARION, l Wx. Foster,
1200 tons, j Commander.
ON WEDNESDAYS,
UNION, ) Richard Adams,
1500 tons. I Commander.
SOUTHERNER, j Thomas Ewan,
100 b tons. ( Commander.
These Steamers are unrivalled on the coast, for
Safety. Speec and Comfort.
Experienced and courteous Commanders; Tables
supplied with every luxury, will ensure travellers,
by this line every possible comfort and accommo
dation.
Cabin Passage $25
Steerage 8
For Freight or Passage, having elegant State
Room accommodations, apply at the offico of the
Agent. HENRY MISSROON,
Cor. East Bay and Adger s South wharves,
aug 30 Charleston. S. C.
GEORGIA RAILROAD.
ASS E IT*XRA fxS
LEAVE AUGUSTA daily at 4.30, P. M., and
(Sundays excepted) 6, A. M.
Arrive at Augusta daily at 4.30, A. M., and
(Sundays excepted) 4.25, P. M.
Leave Atlanta daily at 5.3(), P. M., and (Sundays
excepted) 5.30, A. M.
Arrive at Atlanta daily at 4.00, A. M., and
(Sundays excepted) 5.20, P. M.
Connecting with Athens Branch Trains,
Union Pointdaily (Sundaysexcepted) at
12.15 P. M.
Arriving at Union Point daily (Sundaysexcept
ed) at 11, A.M.
With South Carolina Railroad Trains,
Hamburg daily at 5.45, A. M., and 6, P.
Arrivingat Hamburgdaily at 2.30 P. M., and 5,
A. M.
With Atlanta and LaGrange Railroad Trains,
Leaving Atlanta daily at 4.30 A.M.
Arriving at Atlanta daily at 4.15, P. M.
With Western and Atlantic Railroad Trains,
Leaving Atlanta daily at 6, A. M.
Arrivingat Atlanta daily at 5, P. M.
And with Macon and Western Railroad Trains,
Leaving Atlanta daily at 6.45, P. M.
Arriving at Atlanta daily at 1.30, A. M.
And leaving Atlanta on Tuesdays, Thursdays,
and Saturdays at 7.30, A. M.
And arriving at Atlanta on Mondays, Wednes
days, and Fridays at 3.00, P. M.
julv 20 F. C. ARMS, Sup’t.
§tfflntsl)ip nnb lluilronb fairs.
FOR PHILADELPHIA.
PHILADELPHIA and SAVANNAH STEAM NAVIGA
TION COMPANY.
The new and splendid
SIDE WHEEL STEAMSHIPS,
KEYSTONE STATE, Capt.
Ilardie, and STATE OF GEORGIA, Capt
Garvin, Jr. will leave Savannah for Philadelphia
every Wednesday. These steamships are the most
comfortable on the coast, and are unsurpassed for
safety and speed. They will leave Savannah as
follows :
Keystone State Wednesday, 28th September.
State of Georgia.,. ..Wednesday, sth October.
Keystone State Wednesday, 12th October.
State of Georgia Wednesday, 19th October!
Keystone State Wednesday, 26th October
State of Georgia Wednesday, 2d November.
Keystone State 4V ednesday, 9th November
State of Georgia Wednesday, 16th November
Keystone State Wednesday, 23d November
State of Georgia.., ..Wednesday, 30th November
Keystone State Wednesday, 7th December.
S tale ot Georgia,.,,VW ednesday, 14th December.
n , . _ And so on.
Cabin Passage S2O
Steerage .!.!$ 8
C. A. L. LAMAR, Agent in Savannah.
HEPiON Sc MARTIN, Agents in Philadelphia,
sept 23
JEST RECEIVED —A large and assortod stock
of Planishod Ware, comprising Dish Covers,
Buckwheat and other Dish Covers, English Chafing
Dishes, Imperial Covers, Dishes, Water Pans,
Hash Heaters, Kettles, Soup Tureens, Ac., Ac.
For sale at wholesale and retail by
oet 22 B. F CHEW.
CITRA'”E OF MAG X ESI A. —A supply just
received by WM. 11. TUTT,
SEE HERE ! SEE HERE !!
THE undersigned would respectfully inform his
friends and the public generally, that ho has
just opened his beautiful Rotunda, whero he will
spare no pains or expense in serving up the choicest
Ice Creams, Soda Water, Lemonades, Cakes, Con
fectioneries, Ac., Ac.
No. 155, north side Broad street, just below the
Eagle and Phoenix Hotel. JOHN W. ZINN.
P. S. Families, Balls, Parties, and Pic Nics, sup
plied on reasonble terms. J* W. Z.
HHDs. prime N. 0. Sugar, now landing.
SCRANTON, SEYMOUR A CO.,
nov 6 No. 2 Warron Block.
AUGUSTA, GA., SATURDAY MORNING, DECEMBKR 10, 1853.
| (finernl jGprrtwmmtg.
NEW FALL GOODS.
L . D. LALLERSTEDT,
HAS just received at his old stand, corner of
Globo Hotel, a splendid assortment of Staple
and Fancy Dry Goods, suitable for the season;
* mng which are
Rich brocade and plaid coloured SILKS.
Super plaid and watered black SILKS.
Extra MUSLIN DeLAINES, Parisian styles.
French and English MERINOS.
Lupin s BOMBAZINE and ALPACCA.
Earlston GINGHAMS and PRINTS.
Needle woiked COLLARS and CIIEMIRETTS.
Jaconet and Swiss TRIM MING.
Hosiery and GLOVES, great variety.
Irish Linens and Table DAMASK.
Farnalure DIMITY and FRINGES.
Bleached SHIRTING and SHEETING.
Osnaburg STRIPES and Georgia PLAINS
KERSEYS and BLANKETS, great variety.
To which he invites attention. sep 21
FALL AND WINTER STOCK.
HATS, CAPS, HONNETTS, UMBRELLAS.
COUNTRY Merchants, Planters, and the public
generally, are invited to examine my Fall and
Winter stock, of Hats, Capts, Bonnetts, Umbellas,
Ac., consisting of
Fashionable Moleskin, Beaver Brush and Cas
simere HATS.
Soft Beaver, Brush and Cassimero fancy Hats.
Soft Saxony, and Waterproof Wool Hats,
Negro Hats and Caps, a large assortment.
Bonnets, Silk, Straw, Florence, Belgrade, Ac.
Flowers, Tabs and Bonnett linings.
Umbrellas, Silk, Ginghams and Com. Cotton.
I have a full assortment, to which lam receiving
supplies weekly from manufacturers, and am offer”
ing at prices as low as same qualities of goods can bo
bought in markets North or South. Call and see
at . GEORGE IV. FERRY’S,
Fashionable Hat, Cap and Bonnet Store, Masonic
liall, Broad streot Augusta, Goo. sept 23
TRANSPORTATION BETWEEN SAVAN
NAH AND AUGUSTA.
BY FASHION
IN offering tho services of the steamer FASHION,
(the first boat of thi3 line) to the merchants of
Georgia and Carolina, Alabama and Tonnessce,
we would ask for her that patronage which her
construction and light draught of water merits.
The Fashion is a home enterprise and owned ex
clusively by Capt. T. N. Philpot (her commander)
and mysell, whoso entire attention will be given to
the interest of her patrons.
This boat was built in this city, and great care
has boon taken in her construction to make hor
worthy of the trade for which she is intended.
Her capacity is about 2000 bales Cotton, her
draught es water only 13 inches, which will enable
hor at all seasons of the year, to deliver her freight
promptly.
Her entire cargo will bo taken betwoon decks, !
which will not only prevent damage to goods in
case of snagging, but will add much to tho condi
tion of packages discharged from her. Mr. M. A. '
Cohen is the agent of this line in Savannah, whero
suitable wharves and warehouso have been provi- 1
ded in a central situation for tho reception of Cot
ton, Merchandize, Ac.
Tim Fashion will run in connection with the
Now Y ork and Philadelphia steamship, pelivering
goods at this point in five days from either of those 1
cities. JOHN A. MOORE. i
FRENCH BURR MILL STONE MANUFAC !
TORY.
Comer Jiroad and Camming streets.
AUGUSTA, GA.
THE SUBSURIIJEK. takos this occasion to in- ,
form his numerous friends and the public gen- ■
eraliy, that he has commenced the above business !
under tho most favorable auspices, having engaged
the servicos ot an exporinced and highly qualified 1
workman, and flatters himself that his work will 1
compare with any other manufacturer in tho United 1
States. 1
He also begs to apprise the discriminating public
that all orders with which he may be favored,
shall have his personal attenti. n, prompt execu
tion and dispatch. A share of public patronage is
respectfully solicited.
PATRICK McCUE, Proprietor.
wpll ditcly
UNITED STATES HOTEL!
AUGUSTA, GA.
THE above HOTEL is new open forth© LA
reception of Permanent anu Tran- BlfiM
sient BOARDERS.
This long established and well-l nown House has
undergone a thorough alteration throughout, and
furnished with NEW and FASHIONABLE FUR
NITURE!
The table will always be supplied with the best
the market affords; and the Proprietor crusts, by
a systematic course, both with servants and the
regulations of the house geneeaiUy. he will be ena
bled to give entire aatislection to those that maj’
favor him with theirpatronage.
jan*. ‘ JNO. W. SPEAR.
FOR PALATKA, EAST FLORIDA.
Touching at Darien, Brunswick, St. Mary's,
Jacksonville, Middled urg, Black Creek, and
Pieolata.
THE new and superior steam a* -wfp*™* »*,
Packets ST. JOHN, Capt. Jas.
Freebern, and WM. GASTON, Captain Thomas
Shaw, will leave for the above places as follows:
The St. John on Thursday morning, 15th inst., at
10 o clock, and Wm. Gaston on Tuesday morning,
20th inst., at 10 o’clock, and will continuo to leave
at the samo hour every Thursday and Tuesday
thereafter. The lattor boat carrying the U. S.
mail. For freight or passage, having handsome
state-room accommodations, apply on board, at
Dillon’s lower wharf, or to
J. H. GUNBY, Agent.
The St. John will go to St. Augustine every
4th trip, commencing (leaving Savannah) on the
29th inst. ly sop 13
BELLVILLE FACTORY AGENCY,
Corner of Mclntosh and Reynold Streets.
THE GEORGIA STRIPES A>»
PLAINS, made at this Factory,
so long and favorably known to Mor- fonCTwi
chants and Planters, are now on salo at ]W|f§j!F
the above place, where all orders will ilaaii
be promptly attended to.
GEORGE SCHLEY.
lyis
GROCERIES, GROCERIES FT
ty lIIIUS. Now Orleans, Poto Rico and Mus-
I eJ covado SUGARS.
100 bbls. Grouad, Crushed and Coffee SUGARS
200 bags Rio, La/guira and Java COFFEE.
50 bales Heavy lunny CLOTH.
30 pieces Dundee BAGGING.
200 coils Prime Kentucky Pope.
500 lbs. best Bailing Twino.
1000 Four Bushel Gunny Bags.
1000 sacks Salt, in fine order.
25 hhds. Prime Bacon Sides.
5o “ Cuba Molasses.
100 bbls. Choice New Orleans Syrup.
30 boxes best Green and Black Tens.
100 Boxes superior Adamantine and Tallow
Candles.
50 Boxes Colgate’s No. 1 and variegated Soaps
75 boxes Tobacco, various qualities.
50 M American and Spanish Segars.
100 bales Prime Eastern Hay.
10 kegs Choice Goshen Buttor.
35 boxes New York Steam Candy.
Also, Fruits, Nuta, Spices, Pickles, Preserves and
all other articles usually sold in Grocery Houses.
For sale by J. R. & W. M. DOW,
sep 18 No. 6, Warren Block
RAILROAD AND STAGE LINE NOTICE
Til E 'proprietors ot the Al G USX A AND
WAYNESBORO’ LINE OF STAGES having
made arrangements with Messrs. FINN A OS
MOND to run a Train of Cars fourteen miles,there
by making the route more desirable, and the thus
shortened from Green’s Cut from six to three hour
and a half. The following will bo the schodule
time until further notice :
Leave Augusta 6 A. M.
Arrive at Green’s Cut quarter after 10 A. M.
Return’g, leaves Green’s Cut 4 P. M.
Arrive at Augusta half-past 7 P. M.
Office at tho U. S. Hotel. Tickets can bo pro
cured of J. N. REEVES, Agent,
oct 9 dActf
WORTH7 OF NOTICE.
THE Southern Iron Witch Cook STOVE is u
surpassed as a Cook Stove for Southern uu-t
For culinary conveniences it is complete, but nev
ertheless so simple in its arrangement that the wos
inexperienced cook can, with it, produce the bes.
boiled, broiled, bated, roasted and fried victuals
\\ arranted to give entire satisfaction. For salo by
JAS. SULLIVAN,
No. 145 Broughton street, Savannah.
B. F. CHEW.
oet 22 Augusta, G*
PKESID EN T’S M ESS AGE.
Fellow-Citizens of the Senate ,
and of the House of Representatives:
The interest, with which the people of the
Republic anticipate the assembling of Congress,
and the fulfillment, on that occasion, of the duty
imposed upon a new President, is one of the
best evidences of their cepacify to realize the
hopes of the founders of a political system, at
once complex and symmetrical. While the
different branches of the government are, to a
certain extent, independent of each other, the
duties of all, alike, have direct reference to the
source of power. Fortunately, under this sys
tem, no man is so high, and none so humble, in
the scale of public station, as to escape from the
scrutiny, or to be exempt from the responsibili
ty, which all official functions imply.
Upon the justice and intelligence of the mass
es, in a government thus organized, is the sole
reliance of the confederacy, and the only securi
ty for honest and earnest devotion to its inter
ests against the usurpations and encroachments
of power on the one hand, and the assaults of
personal ambition on the other.
The interest, of which I have spoken, is in
separable from an inquiring, self-governing com
munity, but stimulated, doubtless, at the present
time, hy the unsettled conditions of onr relations
with several foreign powers; by the new obli
gations resulting from a sudden extension of the
held of enterprise ; by the spirit with which that
field has been entered, and the amazing energy
with which its resources for meeting the de
mands of humanity have been developed.
Although disease, assuming at one time the
characteristics of a wide-spread and devastating
pestilence, has left its sad traces upon some por
tions of our country, we have still the most
abundant cause for reverent thankfulness to
God for an accumulation of signal mercies show
ered upon us as a nation. It is well that a con
sciousness oi rapid advancement and increasing
strength be habitually associated ith an abiding
sense of dependence upon Him w io holds in his
hands the destiny of men and o( n lions.
Recognising the wisdom ot the broad princi
ple of absolute religious toleration proclaimed in
our fundamental law, and rejoicing in the be
nign influence which it has exerted upon our
social and political condition, I should shrink
from a clear duty, did I fail to express my deep
est conviction, that we can place no secure reli
ance upon any apparent progress, if it be not sus
tained by national integrity, resting upon the
great truths affirmed and illustrated by divine
revelation. In the midst of our sorrow for the
afflicted and suffering, it has been consoling to
see how promptly disaster made true neighbors
of districts and cities separated widely from
each other, and cheering to watch the strength
of that common bond of brotherhood, which
unites all hearts, in all parts of this Union, when
danger threatens from abroad,or calamity im
pends over us at home.
DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS.
Our diplomatic relations with the foreign
powers have undergone no essential change since
the adjournment of the last Congress. With
some of them, questions of a disturbing charac
ter are still pending, but there are good reasons
to believe that these may be amicably adjust
ed.
GREAT BRITAIN.
For some years past, Great Britain las so con- :
strued the first article ol the convention of the
30th of April, 1818, in regard to the fisheries on 1
the northeastern coast, as to exclude our citizens
fiotn some of the fishing grounds, to which they
freely resorted for nearly a quarter of a century
subsequent to the date of that treaty. The
United States have never acquiesced in this con- !
struction, but have always claimed for their
fishermen all the rights which they ha Iso long ‘
enjoyed without molestation. With a view to *
remove sll difficulties on the subject, to extend 1
the rights of our fishermen beyond the limits J
fixed by the convention of 1848, and to regulate
trade between the United States and the British '
North American provinces, a negotiation has been
opened, with a fair prospect ol a favorable result.
To protect our fishermen in the enjoyment of '
their rights, and prevent collision between them
and British fishermen, I deemed it expedient to '
station a naval force in that quarter during the
fishing season.
Embarrassing questions Lave also arisen be
tween the two governments in regard to Central
America. Great Britain has proposed to settle
them by an amicable arrangement, and our min
ister at Londonis instructed to enter into nego
tiations on that subject.
A commission tor adjusting the claims of our
citizens against Great Britain, and those of
British subjects against the United States, or
ganized under the convention of the Bth of /eb
ruary last, is now sitting in London for the trans
action of business.
It is in many respects desirable that the boun
dary line between the United States and the
British provinces in the northwest, as designated
in the convention of the 15th of June, 1846, and
especially that part which separates the Terri
tory of Washington from the British possessions
on the north, should be traced and marked. 1
therefore present the subject to your notice.
FIIANCE.
With France, our relations continue on the
most friendly footing. The extensive commerce
between the United States and that country
might, it is conceived, be released from some
unnecessary restrictions, to the mutual advan
tage of both parties. With a view to this ob
ject, some progress has been made in negotiating
a treaty of commerce and navigation.
SPAIN.
Independently of our valuable trade with
Spain, we have important political relations
with her, growing out ol our neighborhood to
the islands of Cuba and Porto Rico. lam hap
py to announce, that since the last Congress no
attempts have been made, by unauthorized ex
peditions within the United States, against eith
er of those colonies. Should any movement be
manifested within our limits, all the means at
my command wilt be vigorously exerted to re
press it. Several annoying occurrences have
taken place at Havana, or in the vicinity of the
island of Cuba, between our citizens and the
Spanish authorities. Considering the proximity
of that island to our shores, —lying, as it does, in
the track ol trade between some ot our princi
pal cities, —and the suspicious vigilance with
which foreign intercourse, particularly that with
the United States, is there guarded, a repetition
of such occurrences may well be apprehended.
As no diplomatic intercourse is allowed between
our Consul at Havana, and the Captain-Gener
al of Cuba, ready explanations cannot be made,
or prompt redress afforded, where injury has re
sulted. All complaint on the part of our ci'i
zens, under the present arrangement, must be,
in the first place, presentnd to this government 1
and then reterred to Spain. Spain again refers it
to her local authorities in Cuba for investigation,
and postpones an answer till she has heard from
those authorities. To avoid these irritating and
vexatious delays, a proposition has been made
to provide for a direct appeal for redress to the
Captain-General by our consul, in behalf ol our
injured fellow-citizens. Hitherto, the govern
ment of Spain has declined to enter into any
such arrangement. This course on her part is
deeply regretted ; for, without some arrangement
of this kind, the good understanding between
the two countries may be exposed to occasional
interruption. Our minister at Madrid is instruc
ted to renew the proposition, and to press it
again upon the consideration of her Catholic
Majesty’s government.
For several years Spain has been calling the
attention of this government to a claim for los
ses, by some of her subjects, in the case of the
schooner Amistad. This claim is believed to
rest on the obligations imposed by our existin' 7
treaty with that country. Its justice was ad
mitted, in our diplomatic correspondence with
the Spanish government, as early as March
1847; and one of my predecessors, in his annual
message of that year, recommended thaf provi
sion should be made for its payment. In Jan
uary last, it was again submitted to Congress by
the Executive. It has received a favorable con
sideration by committees of both branches, but
as yet there has been no final action upon it. I
conceive that good faith requires its prompt ad
. justment, and I present it to your early and favo
rable consideration.
AUSTRIA.
Martin Kosta, a Hungarian by birth, came to
. this country in 1850, and declared his intention,
in due form of law, to become a citizen of the
’ United States. After remaining here nearly
, two years, he visited Turkey. While at Smyr
, na, he was forcibly seized, taken on board an
Austrian brig of war, then lying in the harbor
« °f that place, and there confined in irons, with
the avowed des»gn to take him into the domin
ions el Austria. Our counsel at Smyrna and le
gation at Constantinople interposed for his re
lease, but their efforts were ineffectual. While
thus imprisoned, Commander Ingraham, with
the United States ship of war St. Louis, arrived
at Smyrna, and, after inquiring into the circum
stances of the case, came to the conclusion that
Koszta was entitled to the protecton of this gov
ernment, and took energetic and prompt mea
sures lor his release. Under an arrangement be
tween the agents of the United States and of
Austria, he was transferred to the custody of the
French consul-general, at Smyrna, there to re
main until he should be disposed of by the mu
tual agreement of the consuls of the respective
governments at that place. Pursuant to that
agreement he has been released and is now on
his way to the United States. The Emperor of
Austria has made the conduct of our officers who
took part in this transaction a subject of grave
compinaint. Regarding Koszta as still his sub
ject, ana claiming a right to seize him within
the limits of the Turkish Empire, he has deman
ded of this government its consent to the surren
der of the prisoner, a disavowal of the acts of its
agents, and satisfaction for the alleged outrage.
After a careful consideration ol the case, I came
to the conclusion that Koszta was seized without
legal authority at Smyrna; that he was wrong
fully detained on board of the Austrian brig of
war; that, at the time of his seizure, he was
clothed with the nationality of the United
States; and that the acts of our officers, under the
circumstances of the case, were justifiable, and
their conduct has been fully approved by me, and
a compliance with the several demands of the
Emperor of Austria, has been declined.
For a more full account of this transaction and
my views in regard to it, I refer to the corres
pondence between the charge d’affaires of Aus
tria and the Secretary of State, which is here
with transmitted. The principles and policy,
therein maintained on the part of the United
States, will, whenever a proper occasion occurs,
be applied and enforced.
CHINA.
The condition of China, at this time, renders
it probable that some important change will oc
cur in that vast empire, which will lead to a
more unrestricted intercourse with it. The
commissioner to that country, who has been re
cently appointed, is instructed to avail himself
of all occasions to open and extend our commer
cial relations, not only with the Empire of Chi
na. but with other Asiatic nations.
JAPAN.
In 1552, an expedition was sent to Japan, un
der the command of Commodore Perry, for the
purpose of opening commercial intercourse with
that island. Intelligence has been received of
his arrival there, and of his having made known
to the Emperor of Japan the object of his visit;
but it is not yet ascertained how far the Empe
ror will be disposed to abandon his restrictive
policy, and open that populous country to a
commeicial intercourse with the United States.
MEXICO. <
It has been my earnest desire to maintain
friendly intercourse with the governments upon
this continent, and to aid them in preserving
good understanding among themselves. With
Mexico, a dispute has arisen as to the true boun- 1
dary line between our territory of New Mexico I
and the Mexican State of Chihuahua. A for
mer commissioner of the United States, employ- 1
ed in running that line pursuant to the treaty of i
Guadalupe Hidalgo, made a serious mistake in '
determining the initial point on the Rio Grande ■ <
but, inasmuch as his decision was clearly a de- '
parture from the directions for tracing the boun- *
dary contained in that treaty, and was not con- !
curred in by the surveyor appointed on the part !
of the United States, whose concurrence was
necessary to give validity to that decision, this
government is not concluded thereby; but that
of Mexico takes a different view of the subject j
There are also other questions of considerable
magnitude pending between the two republics. 1
Our minister in Mexico has ample instructions
to adjust them. Negotiations have been opened s
but sufficient progress has not been made there- -
in to enable me to speak of the probable result. *
Impressed with the importance of maintaining
amicable relations with that republic, and of !
yielding with liberality to all her just claims, it 1
is reasonable to expect that an arrangement mu- ;
tuaily satisfactory to both countries, may be
concluded, and a lasting friendship between them ‘
confirmed and perpetuated.
CENTRAL* AMERICA.
Congress having provided for a full mission to 1
the States of Central America, a minister was £
sent thither in July last. As yet he has had !
time to visit only one of these States, (Nicar- *
agua,) where he was received in the most friend- £
ly manner. It is hoped that his presence and 1
good offices will have a benign effect in compo- 1
sing the dissensions which prevail among them, *
and in establishing still more intimate and 1
friendly relations between them respectively. *
and between each of them and the United States. *
BRAZIL. a
Considering the vast regions of this continent c
and the number of the states which would be
made accessible by the free navigation of the riv- r
er Amizon, peculiar attention has been given to a
this subject. Brazil, through whose territories it t
passes into the ocean, has hitherto persisted in c
a policy so restrictive, in regard to the use of s
this river, as to obstructed and nearly exclude, c
foreign and commercial intercourse with the s
states which lie upon its tributaries and upper t
branches. Our minister to that country is «
instructed to obtain a relaxation of that pol
icy, and to open to common use, under pro- c
per sateguards, this great natural highway for i
international trade. Several of the South i
American states are deeply interested in this at- i
tempt to secure the lree navigation of the Ami- i
zon, and it is reasonable to expect their co-opera- i
tion in the measure. As the advantages of free s
commercial intercourse among nations are bet- 1
ter understood, more liberal views are gener- 1
ally entertained as to the common rights of all 1
to the free use of those means which nature«has 1
provided for international communication. To *
these more liberal and enlightened views, it is <
hoped that Brazil will conform her po.icy, and i
remove all unnecessary restrictions upon the 1
free use of a river, which traverses so many 1
states and so large a part of the continent. lam I
happy to inform you that the republic of Para- 1
guay and the Argentine Confederation have i
yielded to the liberal policy still resisted by Bra- 1
zil, in regard to the navigable rivers within their
respective territories. Treaties embracing this 1
subject, among others, have been negotiated with ]
these governments, which will be submitted to 1
the Senate at the present session. 1
PERU. ]
A new branch of commerce, important to the i
agricultural interests of the United States, has, ;
within a few years past, been opened with Pe
ru. Notwithstanding the inexhaustible deposits
of guano upon the islands of that country, con
siderable difficulties are experienced in obtaining
the requisite supply. Measures have been taken
to remove these difficulties, and to secure a more
abundant importation of the article. Unfortu
nately, there has been a serious collision be
tween our citizens, who have resorted to the
Chincba islands for it, and the Peruvian authori
ties stationed there. Redress for the outrages
committed by the latter, was promptly demand
ed by our minister at Lima. This subject is now
under consideration, and there is reason to be
lieve that Peru is disposed to offer adequate in
demnity to the aggrieved parties.
We are thus not only at peace with ajl foreign
countries, but, in regard to political affairs, are
exempted from any cause of serious disquietude
in our domestic relations.
THE COMPROMISE.
The controversies, which have agitated the
country heretofore, are passing away with the
causes which produced them and the passions
VOL. 33—NEW SERIES-VOL. 8.- NO. 137.
'* which they had awakened ; or, if any trace of
them remains, it may be reasonably hoped that
it will only be perceived in the zealous rivalry
0 of all good citizens to testify their respect for
» the rights of the States, their devotion to the
- Union, and their common determination that
' each one of the States, its institutions, its wel
" tare, and its domestic jieace shall be held alike
1 secure under the sacred aegis of the constitution.
1 This new league of amity and of mutual con
-1 fidence and support, into which the people of
the republic entered, happily affords in
ducement and opportunity for the adoption of a
’ more comprehensive and unembar assed line of
1 policy and action, as to the great material inter
-1 ests of the country, wheti er regarded in them- '
selves or in connexion with the powers of the 1
civilized world. ■,
Ihe United States have continued gradually
and steadily to expand, through acquisitions of
territory, which, how much soever some ot
them may have been questioned, ;re now uni
versally seen and admitted to have been wise in
policy, just in character, and a great element in
the advancement of our country, and with it
ot the human race, in freedom, in prosperity,
and in happiness. The thirteen St. tes hav -
grown to be thirty-one. with relations reaching
to Europe on the one side, and on the other to
the distant realms of Asia.
I am deeply sensible of the immense responsi
bility which the present magnitude of the repub
lic, and the diversity and multiplicity of its in
terests, devolves upon me: the alleviation of
which, so far s relates to the immediate con
duct of the public business is, first, in my reli
ance on the vvidsorn and patriotism of the two
Houses of Congress; and, secondly, in the di
rections afforded me by the principles of pub
lic polity, affirmed by cur fathers of the epoch
of 1798, sanctioned by long experience, and con
secrated anew by the overwhelming voice of
the people ot the United States.
Recurring to these principles, which consti
tute the organic basis of union, we perceive
that, vast a; are the functions and the duties ot
the federal government, vested in, or entrusted
to, its three great departments, the legislative,
executive, and judicial, yet the substantive
power, the popular force, and the large capacities
for social and material development, exist in the
respective States, which all being of themselves
well constituted republics, as they pr ceded, so
they alone aie capable of maintaining and per
petuating, the American Union.
The federal government has its appropiate
line of action in the specific and limited powers
conferred on it by the constitution, chiefly as to
those things in which the States have a com
mon interest in their relations to one another,
and to foreign governments ; while the great
mass of interests which belong to cultivated
men, the ordinary business ot life, the springs of
industry, all the diversified personal and do
mestic affairs of society, rest securely upon the
general reserved powers of the people of the
several States. There is the effective democra
cy of the nation, and there the vital essence of
its being and its greatness.
One of the practical consequences which now
flow from the nature of the federal government,
the primary one is the duty of administering
with integrity and fidelity the high trust re
posed in it by the constitution, especially in the
application of the public funds, as drawn by tax
ation from the people, and appropriated to spe
cific objects by Congress. Happily I have no
occasion to suggest any radical changes in the
financial policy of the government. Ours is al
most, if not absolutely, the solitary power of
Christendom, having a surplus revenue drawn
immediately from imposts on commerce, and
therefore measured by the spontaneous enter
prise and national prosperity of the country,
with such indirect relation to agriculture, manu
factures, and the products of the earth and sea.
as to violate no constitutional doctrine, and yet
vigorously promote the general welfare. Neith
er as to the sources of the public treasure, nor as
to the manner of keeping and managing it, does
any grave controversy now prevail, there being a
general acquiesence in the wisdom of the present
system.
THE TREASURY.
The report of the Secretary of the Treasury
will exhibit in detail the state of the public
finances, and the condition of the various
branches of the public service administered by
that department of the government.
The revenue of the country, levied almost in
sensibly to the tax-payer, goes on from year to
year increasing beyond either the interests or
the prospective wants of the government.
At the close of the fiscal year ending June 30,
1832, there remained in the treasury a balance
of fourteen million six hundred and thirty-two
thousand one hundred and thirty-six dollars.
The public revenue for the fiscal year ending 1
June 3®, 1853, amounted to fifty-eight million
nine hundred and thirty-one thousand eight
hundred and sixty-five dollars from customs, and '
to two million four hundred and five thousand
seven hundred and eight dollars from public
lands and other miscellaneous sources, amount
ing together to sixty .one million three hundred
and seventy-four dollars; while the public ex
penditures for the same period, exclusive of pay
ments on account of the public debt, amounted
to forty-three million five hundred and fifty-four
thousand two hundred and sixty-two dollars;
leaving a balance of thirty-two million four
hundred and twenty-five thousand four hundred
and forty seven dollars of receipts above expen
ditures.
This fact, of increasing surplus in the Treasu
ry, became the subject ot anxious consideration
at a very early period of my administration, and
the path of duty in regard to it seemed to me
obvious and clear, namely: first, to apply the
surplus revenue to the discharge of the public
debt, so far as it could judiciously be done ; and
secondly, to devise means for the gradual reduc
tion of the revenue to the standard of the public
exigencies.
Os these objects, the first has been in the
course of accomplishment, in a manner and to a
degree highly satisfactory. The amount of the
public debt, ot all classes, was, on the 4th of
March, 1853, sixty-nine million one hundred and
ninety thousand and thirty-seven dollars; pay
ments on account of which have bee a made,
since that period, to the amount of twelve mil
lion seven hundred and three thousand three
hundred and twenty-nine dollars, leaving un
paid, and in the continuous course of liquidation,
the sum of fifty-six million four hundred and
eighty-six thousand seven hundred and eight
dollars. These payments, although made at the
market price of the respective classes ot stocks,
have been effected readily, and to the general ad
vantage of the treasury, and have at the same
time proved Os signal utility in the relief they
have incidentally afforded to the money market,
and to the industrial and commercial pursuits of
the country.
The second of the above mentioned objects,
that of the reduction of the tariff, is of great im
portance, and the plan suggested by the Secre
tary of the Treasury, which is to reduce the du
ties on certain articles, and to add to the free list
many articles now taxed, and especially such as
enter into manufactures, and are not largely, or
at all produced in the country, is commended to
your candid and careful consideration.
You will find in the report of the Secretary of
the Treasury, also, abundant proof of the entire
adequacy of the present fiscal system to meet all
the requirements of the public service, and that,
while properly administered, it operates to the
advantage of the community in ordinary busi
ness relations.
1 respectfully ask your attention to sundry
suggestions of improvements in the settlement
of accounts, especially as regards the large sums
of outstanding arrears due to the government, and v
of other reforms in the administrative action of
his department, which are indicated by the Se
cretary; as also to the progress made in the con
struction of marine hospitals, custom-houses, and
of a new mint in California and assay office iu
the city of New ifork, heretofore provided for
by Congress; and also to the eminently success
ful progress of the Coast Survey, and of the
Light-house Board.
WAR AND NAVY DEPARTMENTS
Among the objects meiiting your attention
will be important recommendations from the
Secretares of War and Navy. lam fully safis
fieu that the Navy of the United States is not in
a condition of strength and efficiency commen
surate with the magnitude of our commercial
and ot..er interests; and commend to your espe
cial attention the suggestions on this subject,
made by the Secretary of the Navy. I respect
u y submit that the Army, which, under our
si stem, must always be regarded with the high
est interest, as a nucleus around which the vol
unteer forces ot the nation gfSther in the hour M
danger, requires augmentation, or modification,
to adapt it to the present extended limits and
frontier relations of the country, and the condi
tion of the Indian tribes in the interior of the
continent; the necessity of which will appear in
the communications ot the Secretaries of War
and the Interior.
GENERAL POST OFFICE.
In the administration of the Post Office Pe
t partment for the fiscal year ending June 30,1553,
the gross expenditure was seven million nine
i hundred and eighty-two thousand seven hundred
and fifty-six dollars; and the gioss receipts, du
ring the same period, five million nine hundred
and forty-two thousand seven hundred and thir
ty-tour dollars; showing that the current reven
ue tailed to meet the current expenses of the
department by the sum of two million forty-two
thousand and thirty-two dollars. The causes
which, under the present postal system and laws,
led inevitably to the result, are fully explained
by the report of the Postmaster General ; one
great cause being the enormous rates the depart
ment has been compelled to pay for mail service
rendered by railroad companies."
I'he exhibit in the report ot the Postmaster
General ot the income and expenditures by maii
steamers, will be found peculiarly interesting,
and of a character to demand the immediate ac
tion of Congress.
PENSION BEREAU.
Numerous and flagrant frauds upon the Pension
Bureau have been brought to light within the
last year, and, in some instances, merited punish
ments inflicted; but, unfortunately, in others,
guilty parties have escaped, not through the
want of sufficient evidence to warrant a con
viction, but in consequence of the provisions of
limitation in the existing laws.
From the nature of these claims, the remote
ness of the tribunals to pass upon them, and the
mode in which the proof is,of necessity, furnish
ed, temptations to crime have been greatly stim
ulated by the obvious difficulties of detection.
The detects in the law upon this subject are so
apparent, and so fatal to the ends of justice, that
your early action relating to it is most desirable.
PUBLIC LANDS.
During the last fiscal year, nine million eight
hundred and nineteen thousand four hundred and
eleven acres of the public lands have been survey
ed, and ten million three hundred and sixty-three
thousand eight hundred and ninety-one acres
brought into market. Within the same period,
the sales by public purchase and private entry
amounted to one million eighty-three thousand
four hundred and ninety-five acres; located un
der military bounty land warrants, six million
one hundred and forty-two thousand three hun
dred and sixty acres; located under other certifi
cates, nine thousand lour hundred and twenty
seven acres; ceded to the States as swamp lands,
sixteen million six hundred and eighty-four
thousand two hundred and fifty-three acres; se
lected for railroad and other objects, under acts
of Congress, ono million lour hundred and twen
ty-seven thousand lour hundred and fifty- seven
acres. Total amount of lands disposed of with
in the fiscal year, twenty-five million three hun
dred and forty six thousand nine hundred and
ninety two acres; which is ar, increase in quan
tity sold, and located under land warrants and
grants, of twelve million two hundred and thir
ty one thousand eight hundred and eighteen
acres over the fiscal year immediately preceed
ing.
The quantity of land sold during the second
and third quarters of 1852, was three hundred
and thirty-four thousand four hundred and fifty
one acres. The amount received therefor, was
six hundred and twenty three thousand six hun
dred and eighty seven dollars. The quantity
sold the second and third quarters of the year
1853, was one million six hundred and nine
thouiand nine hundred aud ninteen acres ; and
the amount received therefor, two million two
hundred and twenty six thousand eight hundred
and seventy six dollars.
The whole number of land warrants issused
under existing laws, prior to the 30th of Sep
tember last, was two hundred and sixty-six thou
sand and forty two; of which there were out
standing, at that date, sixty-six thousand nine
hundred and forty seven. The quantity of
land required to satisfy these outstanding war
rants, is four million seven hundred and seventy
eight thousand one hundred and twenty acres.
Warrants have been issued to 30th of Septem
ber last under the act of 11th February, 1847
calling for twelve million eight hundred and sev
enty-nine thousand two hundred and eighty
acres; underacts of September 27,1850, and
March 22, 1852, calling for twelve million five
hundred and five thousand three hundred and
sixty acres; making a total of twenty-five
million three hundred and eighty-four thousand
six hundred and forty acres.
It is believed that experience has verified the
wisdom and justice of the present system, with
regard to the public domain, in most essential
particulars.
THE INTERIOR.
You will perceive, from the report of the Sec
retary of the Interior, that opinions, which have
often been expressed in relation to the opera
tion of the land system, as not being a source of
revenue to the federal treasury, were erroneous.
The net profits from the sale of the public lands
to June 30, 1853, amounted to the sum of fifty
three million two hundred and eighty-nine
thousand four hundred and sixty-five dollars.
1 recommend the extension of the land sys
tem over the Territories of Utah and New Mex
ico, with such modifications a® their peculiari
ties may require.
Regarding our public domain as chiefly valuable
to provide homes for the industrious and enter
prising, lam not prepared to recommend any
essential change in the land system, except bv
modifications in favor of the actual settler, and
an extension of the pre-emption principle in
certain cases, lor reasons, and on grounds, which
will be fully developed in the reports to be laid
before you.
Congress, representing the proprietors of the
territorial domain, and charged especially with
power to dispose of territory belonging to the
United States, has for a long course ot years, be
ginning with the administration of Mr. Jefferson,
exercised, the power to construct roads within
the territories: and there are so many and obvi
ous distinctions between the exercise of power
and that of making roads within the States, that
the former has never been considered subject to
such objections as apply to the latter, and such
may now be considered the settled construction
of the power of the federal government upon the
subject.
Numerous applications have been, and no doubt
will continue to be, made for grants of land, in aid
of the construction of railways. It is not believed
to be within the intent and meaning of the consti
tution, that the power to dispose of the public do
main, should be used otherwise ,ban might be ex
pected trom a prudent proprietor, and, therefore,
that grants ot land to aid in the construction of
roads should be restricted to cases where it would
bo for the interest of a proprietor, under like cir
cumstances, thus to contribute to the construction
of these works.
For the practical operation of such grants thus
far, in advancing the interests of the States in
which the works are located, and at the same time
the substantial interests of all the other States, by
enhancing the value and promoting the rapid salo
1 of the public domain, I refer you to the report of
the Secretary of the Interior. A careful exami
nation, however, will show that this experience is
the result of a just discrimination, and will be far
from affording encouragement to a reckless or in*
discriminate extension of the principle.
SCIENCE AND ART.
I commend to your favorable consideration the
men of genius of our country, who, by their inven
tions and discoveries in science and art. have con
tributed largely to the improvements of the age,
without, in many instances, scouring for themselves
anything like an adequate reward. For many in
teresting details upon this subject, I refer you to the