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VOLUME IJ.
€|)e /ninth nf €l)t jfatuiltj,
A Weekly Southern Newspaper,
PUBLISHED EVERY SATURDAY, BY
EDWARD J. PURSE.
terms:
Two Dollars a year, in advance, or Two
Fifty if not paid within three months.
SUBSCRIPTIONS RECEIVED FOR SIX MONTHS,
AT ONE DOLLAR, IN ADVANCE.
Three copies tor one year, or one copy
three years, $5 00
Seven Copies, 10 00
Twelve copies, - -- -- -- 15 00
*** Advertisements to a limited extent,
will he inserted al the rate of 50 cents for a
square of twelve lines or less, for the first in
sertion, und 30 cents for each subsequent
insertion. Business cards inserted for a y-ear
at Five Dollars.
f3T A liberal discount will be made to Post
Masters v/ho will do us the favor to act as
Agents.
Postmasters are authorized to remit mo
■y to Publishers and all money mailed in
presence ot the Postmaster, and duly for
warded b him, is at our risk.
CF* All communications to be addressed
(post-paid) to E. J. PURSE,
Savannah, (la.
W. S. LAWTON & CO^
Warehouse & Commission Merchants,
MACOX, GEORGIA.
LAWTON & DOWELL,
FACTORS & COMMISSION MERCHANTS.
No. 210 Bay St. Savannah, Ga.
Tender their Services to their Friends and the
FuM ie nnv 2
W. S. WILLIFORD,
Auction t.y Commission Merchant ,
MACON, GA.
(LF All kinds of Merchandise and Produce
[except Liquor-] received on Consignment.oi Pur
chased to Order. 1 vr nov 2
CLASSICAL & ENGLISH SCHOOL.
No. 159 Bronghton-St.
BERNARD MALLON, Principal.
J. H. LUTHER, A. M., Classical Teacher.
MISS V. JONES, Assistant. nov 9
GEO. M. WILLETT & CO.,
DEALERS IN
GROCERIES, WINES, LIQUORS ,
TOBACCO, SEGARS, FRUIT, TICKLES,
Preserves, Confectionary, 5f Garden Seeds.
All kinds of Fish an:l Oysiers, when in season.
No. 68 St. Julian and 101 Bryan Streets.
J. P. A. Dcpon, ? (Waring’s Building.)
Jahn R. Tebeak, $ nov 9
BOOK AND JOB PRINTING.
GEO. N. NICHOLS,
(Ovsens Building, opposite the Pulaski House,)
SAVANNAH, GA.
Ii prepared to execute all work in bis line, with
neatness and despatch, and in a style
not to be surpassed.
Prices ns reasonable as any other establishment
in the city. ly sept 25
G. BUTLER,
MASTER BUILDER,
DEALER IN IVHITE PINE LUMBER,
York Street, Oglethorpe Square.
N. 11.—He is prepared to put in Iron fronts
in Stores, See. ly oct 19
T. R. CLARKE,
FASHIONABLE BOOT MAKER,
Next door to corner Bull and Broughton-sts.
•ctlo ly
SAM L. L. SPEIS3EGGEH,
TUNER a- REPAIRER PIANO FORTES,
# HAVING been engaged in the above busi
ness for the last 3 > years, Mr S. trusts that
special references are unnecessary.
Orders left with Mr H. S. Bogardus, fiull-st.,
Messrs F. Zogbattm <fc Cos., or Messrs I. V\ • Mur*
rr[l & Cos., will bo attended to with promptness
and fidelity. lm oct 12
A. PONCE,
Importer and Manufacturer of Sc gars,
No. 13 Whitaker Street,
Keeps an hand a well selected stock ol iinpoited
Beg*r ; also Manufactured Tobacco. Snutl, 1 ipcs,
•ad all other articles usually kept in his line of
business, which he ofTers on the most reasonable
terms. ly o’’ l 1®
W A J. WYLLY,
CABINET MAKER 4- UNDERTAKER,
Corner of Broughton and Bull Streets,
Under the Lyceum Hall.
Coffins of all kind, made of the best materials, and
furnished at the shortest notice.
Also, urw and second hand Imniture bought
and sold, anti repaired with dispatch.
act 12 2m
N. ELLS,
FASHIONABLE BOOT MAKER,
No. 104 Broughton-st,, near the cornet of Bull-st.
act 12 ts
J. s. SOLOMONS
‘TILL contract to execute Plastering, of ab kinds
and styles, at the shortest notice.
Residence, President Street, next door to Mr- B.
Snider t. ‘ 2tn oct 12
JOHN F. SHEEN,
FASHIONABLE TAILOR,
Over .1. M. Haywood’s II air Dressing Saloon,
OPPOSITE THE PULASKI HOUSE.
Cutting, Mending and Cleaning done with neatness
and despatch. Work made up as cheap as m any
• ther establishment in the city. sept 21
J DE MARTIN,
DEALER IN
Fruits, Wines, Liquors, Segars.
PICKLES, PRESERVES and GARDEN SEEDS.
—: also: —
APPLES, ONIONS 4- POTATOES,
When in season, received fresh by every vessel.
—: also: —
Oysters put up to prdxr in from 1 to 10 gallon kegs.
Corner of Bay and Whitaker Streets,
A—
JOHN OLIVER,
HOUSE AND SIGN PAINTER,
GILDER, GLAZIER, &x.,
No. 121 Broughton Street, a few doors east of
Whitaker Street, Savannah, Ga.
CF* All kinds of Taints —Paint Oil, Turpentine,
Garnish, Glass, Patty, <fec., for sale. july 20
EDWARD G. WILSON,
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE,
Conveyancer, Collector, Accountant 4* Copyist ,
Office under J. M. Haywood’s.
BP* Return Day, Wednesday, December 25th.
-DmM ta litem to, Iricnre unit 3lrt, \\)t inns nf cDirit JMasannj unit tjj t Jims of flje JOaij.
McARTHOR & MORSE,
Manufacturers and Dealers in
PLAIN, JAPANNED & BLOCK TIN WARE,
HOLLOW & ENAMELLED WARE,
STOVES AND COOKING RANGES,
Lead Pipe, Sheet Lead. Copper and Zinc,
STORE, 13 BARNARD STREET.
All kinds of Copper, Tin and Sheet Iron Work,
done in the best manner, at the shortest notice.
Be P* 21 lyr
ALLEN & BALL,
FACTORS & COMMISSION MERCHANTS,
No. 112 BAY STREET,
SAVANNAH, GA.
J. M. BALL & CO.,
<& omm i s jb to u tt chau ts,
MACON, GEORGIA.
ROBERT A. ALLEN, JAMES M. BALL,
sept 20 jy
JONES & PAPOT,
Shipwrights, Spar Makers,
AND CAULKERS.
Yard opposite R.& J. Lachlison’s Foundry.
R. H. DARBY,
jm.. je3l oi „
Corner Broughton and Whitaker Streets,
SAVANNAH, GEORGIA.
R. H. D. is prepared to execute all orders for
Making or Cutting on reasonable tprms
marl) ly
J. S. STURTEVANT,
MASTER BUILDER,
Corner Montgomery and Liberty Sts.
All orders in his line will be promptly attended
to, and faithfully executed. ly june 1
JOHN V. TARVER,
FACTOR 4- COMMISSION MERCHANT
EXCHANGE WHARF, SAVANNAH, GA.
RABUN & FULTON,
COMMISSION MERCHANTS,
No. 207 Bay Street , Savannah, Ga.
J. XV. RABUN, R. L. FULTON, I. P. WHITEHEAD.
LANIER HOUSE,
BY LANIER & SON,
june 22 Macon, Georgia.
J. HASBROUCK & CO.,
Wholesale and Retail Dealers in
CHINA, GLASS AND EARTHENWARE,
sept 21 BROUGHTON STREET, SAVANNAH.
S. Y. L E VY,
ATTORNEY AT LAW,
Office, No. 13-5 Bay-Street.
E. T. SHEFTALL,
ATTORNEY AT LAW,
may 2-5 Dublin, Georgia.
MEDICAL NOTICE.
DOCTOR MOREL. Office No. 157 Brough
ton Street. ts mar 23
FRANCIS WAVER,
IMPORTING & COMMISSION MERCHANT,
No 107 Bay Street, Savannah, Geo.
PHILIP KEAN,
DRAPER AND TAILOR,
AND DEALER IN
READY MADE CLOTHING.
Penfield’s Range, No. 98 Bryan Street,
Store formerly occupied by J. Southwell &, Cos
J. T. JONES,
MANUFACTURER AND DEALER IN
Double & Single Guns, Riiles, &c,,
West Side of Monument Square.
SAMUEL S. MILLER,
MANUFACTURER OF
CARRIAGES AND WAGONS,
DEALER IN HUES, SPOKES, FELLOES, Si. c.
No. 140 Broughton St., Savannah.
A SHORT,
M AST E R BUILDER,
Will take contracts for Building and Work in
Masonry of every description. Cornet ot South
Broad and Whitaker streets. may 26
PRESJDENT'S MESSAGE.
Fellow Citizens of the Senate,
and of the House of Representatives :
Being suddenly called, in the midst of the last
session of Congress, by a painful dispensation of
Divine Providence, to the. responsible station
which I now hold, I contented myself with such
communication* to the Legislature as the exigen
cy of the moment seemed to require. The coun
try was shrouded in mourning for the loss of its
venerated Chief Magistrate, and all hearts were
penetrated with grief. Neither the time not the
occasion appeared to require or to jnstily, on my
part, any general expression of political opin
ions, or any announcement of the principles
which would govern me in the discharge of the
duties to the performance of which I had been so
unexpectedly called. I trust, therefore, that it
may not be deemed inappropriate, if I avail my
self of his opportunity of the re-assembling of
Congress, to make known my sentiments, in a
general manner, in regard to the policy which
ought to be pursued bv the Government, both in
its intercourse with loreign nations, and in its
management and administration ol internal af
fairs.
Nations, like individuals in a state of nature,
are equal and independent, possessing certain
rights, and owing certain duties to each other,
arising from their necessary and -unavoidable re
lations; which rights and duties there is no com
mon human authority to protect and enforce. —
Still, they are rights and duties, binding in mor
als, in conscience, and in honor, although there
is no tribunal to which an injured party can ap
peal but the disinterested judgment of mankind,
and ultimately the arbitrament of the sword.
Among the acknowledged rights of nations is
that, which each possesses of establishing that
form of government which it may deem most
conducive to the happiness and prosperity of its
own citizens; of changing that form, as circum
stances may require, and of managing its inter
nal affairs according to its own will. The peo
ple of the United States claim this right for them
selves, and they readily concede it to others.
Hence it becomes an imperative duty not to in
terfere in the government or internal policy of
other nations; and, although we may sympathise
with the unfortunate or the oppressed, every
where, in their struggles for freedom, our princi
ples forbid us from taking any part in such for
eign contests. We make no wars to promote or
to prevent successions to thrones; to maintain any
theory of a balance of power; or to suppress the
actual government which any country choosrs to
establish for itself. We instigate no icvolotions,
nor suffer any hostile military expeditions to be
fitted out in the United Stales to invade the terri
tory or provinces of a friendly nation. The great
law of morality ought to have a national, as well
as a personal and individual application. Me
should act towards other nations as we wish litem to
act towards us; and justice and conscience should
form the rule of conduct between Governments,
instead of mere power, self-interest, or the de
sire of aggrandizement. To maintain a strict
neutrality in foreign wars, to cultivate friendly
relations, to reciprocate every noble and gener
ous art, and to perform punctually and scrupu
lously every treaty obligation—these are the du
ties which we owe to other States, and by the
performance of which we best entitle ourselves to
like treatment from them; or if that, in any case,
be refused, we can enforce our own rights with
justice and a clear conscience.
In our domestic policy, the Constitution will be
my guide; and in questions of doubt, I shall look
for its interpretation to the judicial decisions of
that tribunal, which was established to expound
1 j usa ff e °(the Government, sanction
ed by the acquiescence of the country. I regard
all its provisions as equally binding. In all its
parts it is the will of the people, expressed in the
most solemn form, and the constituted authori
ties are but agents to carry that will into effect.
Every power which it has granted is to be exer
ciaed for the puDlic good; but no pretence of util
lty, no honest conviction, even, of what might be
expedient, can justify the assumption of any pow
er not granted. The powers confer red upon the
Government and their distribution to the several
departments, are as clearly expressed in that sa
cred instrument as the imperfection of human
language will allow; and I deem it my first duty,
not to question its wisdom, add to it* provisions,
evade its requirements, or nullify its commands!
Upon you, fellow-citizens, as the representa
tives of the States and the people, is wisely de
volved the legislative power. 1 shall comply with
my duty, in laying before you, from time to time,
any information calculated to enable you to dis
charge your high and responsible trust, for the
benefit of our common constituents.
My opinions will be frankly expressed upon the
leading subjects of legislation ; and if, which I
do not anticipate, any act should pass the two
Houses of Congress which should appear to me
unconstitutional, or an encroachment on the just
powers of other departments, or with provisions
hastily adopted, and likely to produce conse
quences injurious and unforeseen, I should not
shrink from the duty of returning it to you, with
my reasons, for your further consideration. Be
yond the due performance of these constitutional
obligations, Loth my respect for the legislature
and my sense of propriety will restrain me from
any attempt to control or influence your proceed
ings VVjth you is the power, the honor, and
the responsibility of the legislation of the country.
The Government of the United States is a lim
ited Government. It is confined to the exercise
of powers expressly granted, and such others as
may be necessary for carrying those powers into
effect; and it is at all times an especial duty to
guard against any infringement on the just
rights of the States. Over the objects and sub
jects intrusted to Congress, its legislative author
ity is supreme. But here that authority ceases,
and every citizen who truly loves the Constitu
tion, ami desires the continuance of its existence
and its blessings, wi 1 resolutely and firmly re
sist any i liter le re nee in those domestic affairs,
which the Constitution lias clearly and unequivo
cally left to the exclusive authority of the States.
And every such citizen will also deprecate use
less it ritation among the several members of the
Union, and allreproach and crimination tending
to alienate one portion of the country from a
nother. The beauty of our system of Govern
ment consists, and its safety and durability must
consist, in avoiding mutual collisions, and en
roachments, and in the regular separate action of
all, while each is revolving in its own distinct
orbit.
The Constitution has made it the duty of the
President to take care that the laws be faithfully
executed. In a Government like ours, in which
all laws are passed by a majority of the represen
tatives of the people, and these representatives are
chosen for such short periods, that any injurious
or obnoxious law can very soon be repealed, it
would appear unlikely that any great number
should be found ready to resist the execution of
the laws. But it must be borne in mind that the
country is extensive, that there may be local in
terests or prejudices rendering a law odious in
one part, which is not so in another, and that
the thoughtless and inconsiderate, misled by
theit passions or imaginations, may be induced
madly to resist such laws as they disapprove.
Such persons should recollect that, without law
there can be no real practical liberty; that when law
is trampled under foot, tyranny rules, whether it
appeals in the form of a military despotism or of
popular violence. The law is the only sure pro
tection of the weak, and the only efficient re
straint upon the strong. When impartially and
faithfully administered, none is beneath its pro
tection, and none above its control. You, gentle
men, and the country may be assured, that to
the utmost of my ability, and to the extent of the
power vested in me, I shall at all times, and in all
places, take care that the laws be faithfully exe
cuted. In the discharge of this duty, solemnly
imposed upon me by the Constitution, and by my
oath ol office, I shall shrink from no responsibi
lity, and shall endeavor to meet events as they
may arise, with firmness, as well as with pru
dence and discretion.
The appointing power is one of the most deli
cate with w hich the Executive is invested. I re
gard it as a sacred trust, to be exercised with the
sole view of advancing the prosperity and happi
ness of the people. It shall be my effort to elevate
the standard of official employ merit, by selecting
for places of importance, individuals fitted for the
posts to which they are assigned, by their known
integrity’, talents and virtues. In so extensive a
country, with so great a population, and where
few persons appointed to office can he known to
the appointing power, mistakes will sometimes
unavoidably happen, and unfortunate appoint
ments be made, notwithstanding the greatest
care. In such cases, the power of removal may
be properly exercised; and neglect of duty or
malfeasance in office will be no more tolerated in
individuals appointed by rnyseli, than in those
appointed by others.
1 am happy in being able to say T that no unfa
vorable change in our foreign relations has taken
place since the tnessageat the opening of the last
session of Congress. We are at peace with all
nations, and we enjoy in an eminent degree the
blessings of that peace, in a prosperous and grow
ing commerce, and in all the forms of amicable
national intercourse. The unexampled growth
of the country, the present amount of its popu
lation, and its ample means of self-protection as
sure for it, the respect of all nations; while it is
trusted that its character for justice, and a regard
to the rights of other States, will cause that re
spect to be readily and cheerfully paid.
A Convention was negotiated between the Uni
ted States and Great Britain, in April last, for fa
cilitating and protecting the construction of a
ship canal between the Atlantic and Pacific
Oceans, and for other purposes. This instru
ment has since been ratified by the contracting
parties, the exchange of ratification has been
effected, and proclamation thereof has been duly
made.
In addition to the stipulations contained in this
convention, two other objects remain to be ac
complished between the contracting parties.
First, the designation and establishment of a
free port at each end of the canal.
Second, an agreement fixing the distance from
the shore within which belligerent marntime
operations shall not be carried on. On these
points there is little doubt that the two govern
ments will come to an understanding.
The company of citizens of the United States
who have acquired from the State of Nicaragua
the privilege of constructing a ship canal be
tween the two oceans, through the territory of
that Slate, have made progress in their prelim
inary arrangements. The treaty between the
United Stales and Great Britain, of the 19th of
April last, above referred to, being now in opera
tion, it is to lie hoped that the guranties which it
offers will be sufficient to secure the completion
of the work with all practicable expedition. It
is obvious that this result would be indefi
nitely postponed, if arty other than peaceful mea
sures, for the purpose of harrnoniziug conflict
ing claims to the territory in that quarter, should
be adopted. It will consequently be my endeavor
to cause any further negotiations on the part of
this Government, which may be requisite for
this purpose, to be so conducted as to bring them
to a speedy and successful close.
Some unavoidable delay has occurred, arising
from distance and the difficulty of intercourse be
tween this Government and that of Nicaragua,
but, as intelligence has just been received of the
appointment of an Envoy Extraordinary and
Minister Plenipotentiary of that Government to
reside at Washington, whose arrival may be soon
expected, it is hoped that no further impediments
will be experienced in the prompt transaction of
business botween the two Governments.
Citizens of the United States have undertaken
the connection of the two oceans by means of a
railroad across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, un
der grants of the Mexican Government to a citi
zen of that Republic. It is understood that a
thorough survey of the course of the communica
tion is in preparation, and there is every reason
to expect that it will be prosecuted with charac
teristic energy, especially when that Government
shall have consented to such stipulations with
the Government of the United Slates as may be
necessary to impart a feeling of security to those
who may embark their property in the enterprise.
Negotiations are pending for the accomplish
ment of that object, and a hope is confidently en-„
tertained that when the Government of Mexico
shall become duly sensible of the advantages
which that country cannot fail to derive from the
work, and learn that the Government of the Uni
ted States desires that the right of sovereignty of
Mexico in the Istbuiae shall remain unimpaired,
SAVANNAH, GA., SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 1850.
the stipulations referred to will be agreed to with
alacrity.
By the last advices from Mexico It would ap
pear, however, that that Government entertains
strong objections tosomeof the stipulations which
the parties concerned in the project of the railroad
deem necessary for their protection and security.
Further consideration, it is to be hoped, or some
modification of terms, may yet reconcile the dif
ferences existing between the two Governments
in this respect.
Fresh instructions have recently been given to
the Minister of the United States in Mexico, who
is prosecuting the subject tvith promptitude and
ability.
Although the negotiations with Portugal, for
the payment of claimsof the citizens of the United
States against that Government, have not yet re
suited in a formal treaty, yet a proposition made
by the Government of Portugal for the final ad
justment and payment of those claims, has re
cently been accepted on the part of the United
States. It gives me pleasure to say that Mr.
Clay, to whom the negotiations on the part of the
United States had been entrusted, discharged the
duties of his appointment with ability and disr re
tion, acting always within the men uctions of his
Government.
It is expected that a regular convention will be
immediately negotiated for carrying the agree
ment between the two Governments into effect.
The Commissioner appointed under the act of
Congress for carrying into effect the convention
with Brazil, of the 271 h January, 1549, ha 9 enter
ed upon the performance of the duties imposed
upon him by that act. It is hoped that those du
ties may be completed within the time which it
prescribes. The documents, however, which the
Imperial Government, by the third article of the
convention, stipulates to furnish to the Govern
ment of the United States, have not yet been re
ceived. As it is presumed that those documents
will be essential for the correct disposition of the
claims, it may become necessary lor Congress to
extend the period limited for the duration of the
commission. The sum stipulated by the fourth
article of the convention to be paid to this Gov
ernment has been received.
The collection in the ports of the United States
of discriminating duties upon the vessels of Chili
and their cargoes has been suspended pursuant
to the provisions of the act of Congress of the 24th
of May, 1823. It is to be hoped that this measure
will impart a fresh impulse to the commerce be
tween the two countries, which of late, and espe
cially since our acquisition of California, lias, to
the mutual advantage of the parties been much
augmented.
Peruvian guano has become so desirable an ar
ticle to the agricultural interests of the United
States, that it is the duty of the Government to
employ all the means properly in its power for
the purpose of causing that article to be imported
into the country at a reasonable price. Nothing
will be omitted on my part towards accomplish
ing this desirable end. I am persuaded that in
removing any restraints on this traffic, the Peru
vian Government will promote its own interests,
while it will afford a proof of a friendly disposi
tion towards this country, which will be duly ap
preciated.
The treaty between the United States and His
Majesty the King of the Hawaiian Indians,which
has recently been made public, will, it is believed
have a beneficial effect upon the relations between
the two countries.
The relations between those parts of the Island
of St. Domingo, which were formerly colonies of
Spain and France, respectively, are still in an
unsettled condition. The proximity of that Is
land to the United States, and the delicate ques
tion involved in the existing controversy there,
render it desirable that it should be permanently
and speedily adjusted. The interests of humani
ty and of general commerce also demand (his;
and, as intimations of the same sentiment have
been received from other Governments, it is hoped
that some plan may soon be devised to effect the
object in a manner likely to give general satisfac
tion. The Governmentof the United States will
not lail by the exercise of all proper friendly of
fices, to do all in its power to put an end to the de
structive war which has raged between the dif
ferent partsof the island, and to 3ecnre to them
both the benefits of peace and commerce.
I refer you to the report of the Secretary of the
Treasury for a detailed statement of the finances.
The total receipts into the Treasury, for the
year ‘ending 30th June last, were forty-seven
million four hundred and twenty-one thousand
seven hundred and lorty-eight dollars and ninety
cents, ( $47,421,748 90.)
The total ex pend, tu res during the same period
were forty three million two thousand one hun
tired and sixty-eight dollars and ninety cents,
($43,002,168 90.)
The public debt has been reduced, since the
last annual report from the Treasury Department,
$495,276 79.
By the 19th section of the act of 23th January,
1847, the proceeds of the sales of the public lands
were pledged for the interest and principal of the
public debt. The great amount of those lands
subsequently granted by Congress for military
bounties, will, it is believed, very nearly supply
the demand for several years to come, and hut
little reliance can, therefore, he placed on that
hitherto fruitful source of revenue.
Aside from the permanent annual expendi
tures, which have necessarily largely increased,
a portion of the public debt, amounting to SS,-
075,986 59 must be provided lor within the next
two fiscal years. It is most desirable that these
accrueing demands should be met without resort
ing to new loans.
All experience has demonstrated the wisdom
and policy of raising a large portion of revenue,
for the support of Government, from duties on
goods imported. The power to lay these duties
is unquestionable, and its chief object, of course,
is to replenish the treasury. But if in doing
this, an incidental advantage may be gained by
encouraging the industry of our own citizens.it
is our duty to avail ourselves of that advantage.
A duty laid upon an article which cannot Ue
produced in this country —such as tea or coffee—
adds to the cost of the article, and is chiefly or
wholly paid by the consumer. But a duty laid
upon an article whieh may be produced here,
stimulates the skill and industry of our own coun
try to produce the same article, whic h is brought
into the market in competition with the foreign
article, and the importer is thus compelled to re
duce his price to that at which the domestic arti
cle can be sold, thereby throwinga part of the
duty upon the producei of the foreign article.
The continuance of this process creates the skill,
aud invites the capital, which finally enable us
to produce the article much cheaper than it could
have been procured frotn abroad, thereby benefit
ing both the producer and consumer at home.
The consequence of this is, that the artizan, and
the agriculturist, are brought together, each af
fords a ready market for the produce of the other,
the whole country becomes prosperous; anil the
ability to produce every necessary of life renders
us independent in war as well as in peace.
A high tariff can never be permanent. It will
cause dissa#faction and will he changed. It ex
cludes competition, and thereby invites the in
vestment of capital in manufactures to such ex
cess, that when changed it brings distress, bank
ruptcy, and ruin, upon all who have been misled
by its faithless protection. What the manufac
turer wants, is uniformity and permanency, that
he may feel a confidence that he is not to be. ruin
ed by sudden changes. But to make a tariff uni
form and permanent, it i9 not only necessary
that the law should not be altered, but that the
duty should not fluctuate. To effect this, all du
ties should be specific, wherever the nature of the
article is such as to admit of it. Ad valorem du
ties fluctuate with the price, and offer strong
temptation to fraud and perjury. Specific du
ties, on the contrary, arc equal and uniform in
all ports, and at all times; and offer a strong in
ducement to the importer to bring the best arli
cle, as lie pays no more duty upon that than up
on one of inferior quality. I therefore strongly
recommend a modification of the present tariff,
which has prostrated some of our most important
and necessary manufactures, and that specific du
ties be imposed suffieientto raisethe requisite reve
nue, making sueh discrimination in favor of the
industrial pursuits of our own country as to en
courage home production, without excluding for
eign competition. It is also important that an
unfortunate provision in the present tariff, which
imposes a much higher duty upon the raw’ ma
terial that rnters into our manufactures than up
on the manufactured article, should be remedied.
The papers accompanying the report of the
Secretary of the Treasury will disclose frauds
attempted upon the revenue, in variety and
amount so great, as to justify the conclusion that
it is impossible, under any system of ad valorem
duties levied upon the foreign cost or value of the
article, to secure an honest observance and an ef
fectual administration of the laws. The fraudu
lent devices to evade the law, which have been
detected by the vigilance of the appraisers, leave
no room to doubt that similar impositions not
discovered, tc a large amount, have been success
fully practised since tbe enactment of tbe law
‘ now in force. This state ot things has already
had a prejudicial influence upon those engaged
in foreign commerce. It has a tendency to drive
the honest trader from the business of importing,
and to throw that impoitant branch of employ
ment into the hands of unscrupulous and dishon
est men, whoarealike regardless of law and the
obligations of an oath. By these means the plain
intentions of Congress, as expressed in the law,
are daily defeated. Every motive of policy and
duty, therefore, impel mo to ask the earnest at
tention of Congress to this subject. If Congress
should deem it unwise to attempt any important
changes in the system of levying duties at this
session, it will become indispensable to the pro
tection of the revenue that such remedies, as in
the judgment ol Congress may mitigate the evils
complained of, should be at once applied.
As before stated, specific duties would, in my
opinion, afford the most perfect remedy for this
evil; but if you should not concur in this view,
then, as a partial remedy, I beg leave respectfully
to recommend that, instead of taking the invoice
of the articles abroad, as a means of determining
its value here, the correctness of which invoiee
it is in many cases impossible to verify, the law
be so changed as to require a home valuation or
appraisal, to be regulated in such manner as to
give, as far as practicable, uniformity in the seve
ral ports.
There being no mint in California, lam in
formed that the laborers in the mines are com
pelled to dispose of their gold dust at a large dis
count. This appears to ine to be a heavy and
unjust tax upon the labor of those employed in
extracting this precious metal ; and I doubt not
you will be disposed, the earliest period possible,
to relieve them Irom it by the establishment of a
mint. In the meantime, as an assayer’s office is
established there, I would respectfully submit
for your consideration the propriety of authoriz
ing gold bullion, which has been assayed and
stamped, to be received in payment of Govern
ment dues. I cannot conceive that the Treasury
would suffer any loss by such a provision, which
will at once raise bullion to its par value, and
thereby save (if lam rightly informed) many
millions of dollars to the laborers which arc now
paid in brokerage to convert this precious metal
into available funds. This discount upon their
hard earnings is a heavy tax, and every effort
should be made by the Guvernmcut to relieve
them from so great a burden.
More than three-fourths of our population are
engaged in the cultivation of the soil. The com
mercial, manufacturing, and navigating inter
ests are all to a great extent, dependent on the
agricultural. It is, therefore, the most important
iuterest of the nation, and has just claim to the
fostering care and protection of the Government,
so far as they can be extended consistently with
the provisions of the Constitution. As this can
not be done by the ordinary modes of legislation,
I respectfully recommend the establishment of an
Agricultural Bureau, to be charged with the duty
of giving to this leading branch of American in
dustry the encouragement which it so well de
serves. In view of the immense mineral re
sources of our country, provision should be made
for the employment of a competent mineralogist
and chemist, who should be required, under the
direction of the head of the bureau, to collect
specimens of the various minerals of our country,
and to ascertain, by careful analysis, their respec
tive elements and properties, and their adaptation
to useful purposes. He should also be required to
examineatid icport upon the qualities of different
soils, aud the manures best calculated to improve
their productiveness. By publishing the results
of such experiments, with suitable explanations,
and by the collection and distribution of rare
seeds and plants, with instructions as to the best
system of cultivation, much may be done to pro
mote this great national interest.
In compliance with the act of Congress passed
on the 23 of May, 1850, providing, among other
things, for taking the seventh census, a superin
tendent was appointed, and all other measures
adopted which w ere deemed necessary to insure
the prompt and faithful performance of that duty.
The appropi ialiotis already made, it is believed;
will be sufficient to defray the whole expense Os
the work; but further legislation maybe neces
sary in tegard to the compensation of some of the
marshals of the Territories, it will also be proper
to make provision by law’, at an early day, lor
the publication of such abstracts of the returns us
the public interest may require.
The unprecedented growth of our Territories
on the Pacific in wealth anil population, and the
consequent increase of their social and commer
cial relations with the Atlantic States, seem to
render it the duly of the Government to use all its
constitutional power to improve all the means of
intercourse with them, The importance of open
iug “a line of communication, the best and most
expeditious of whic h Che nature of the country
will admit,” between the Valley of the Mississ
ippi and the Pacific, was brought to your notice
by my predecessor in his annual message; and as
tiro reesons which he presented in favor of the
measure still exist in full force, 1 beg leave to
call your attention to them, and to repeat the re
commendations then made by him.
The uncertainty which exists in regard to the validity
of land titles in California is a subject which demamis
your early consideration. 4,aige bodies of land in that
{State are claimed under grants .-aid to have been made
by authority of tire {Spanish and Mexican governments.
Many of them have not been perfected, others have been
revoked, and some are believed to be fraudulent, but
until they shall have b en judicially iuvesrigated, they
w ill continue to retaid the settlement-and improvement
of the country. J, therefore, respectfully recommend
that provision be made by law, for the appointment of
commissioners to examine all such claims with a view
to their final adjustment.
1 also beg leave to call your attention to the propriety
of extending, at an early day, our system of land laws,
with such modifications as may he necessary over the
Slate of Califi rrna and the territories of Utah and New
Mexico, ’i he mineral lands of California will, of course,
form an exception to any general system which may he
adopted. Ya.ious methods of disposing of them have
been suggested. 1 was al first inclined to favor the sys
tem of teasing, as it seemed to promise the largest reve
nue to the Government, aud to atlord tl.e best security
against monopolies; but further reflection, and our expe
rience ill lea-ing tin: lead mines arid selling lands upon
long credit, have hr uglu my mind to the conclusion that
there w ould be great ititiiculty In collecting the rents,and
that the relation of debtor and creditor, between the cit
izens and the Government, would be attended with many
mischievous cons. <}uences. 1 therefore recommend that
instead of reluming the mineral lands under the perma
nent control of the Government, they he divided into
small parcels and sold, -under such restrictions, as to
quantity and time, as will ousure the best price, and
guard most effectually against combinations of capital
ists to obtain monopolies.
The anil, xation of Texas and the acquisition of Cali
fornia and New Mexico, have given increased impor
tance to our Indian relations. The various tribes brought
under our jurisdiction by these enlargements of our
boundaries, ate estimated to embrace a population of une
hundred and twenty four thousand.
Texas and New Mexico are surrounded by powerful
tribes of Indians, who are a source of constant terror
and annoyance to the inhabitants. Separating into small
predator} bands, and al wavs mounted, they overrun the
country, devastating farms, destroying ciops, driving oft’
whole herds of cattle, and occasionally murdering the
inhabitants or carrying them into captivity. The great
roads leading into the country are infested with them,
whereby travelling is rendered extremely dangerous, and
immigration is almost entin ly arrested. The Mexican
frontier, w hich, by the eleveuth article of the treaty of
Guadalupe Hidalgo, we are bound to protect against the
Indians within our border, is exposed to tin se incur
sions equally with our own. The inililaiy lon e .-tatioued
in that country (although forming a large portion of the
at ray) is represented as entirely inadequate to our pro
tection and the fulfilment of our treaty stipulations with
Mexico. The principal deficiency is in cavalry, and 1
recoinmJnd that Congress should, at as early a day as
practicable, provide for the raising of one or more regi
ments ol mounted men.
For further suggestions on this subject, and others
connected w ith our domestic interests, and the defence
of our frontier, I refer you to the report of the Secretary
of the Interior and of the Secretary of War,
I recommend also to your favorable consideration the’
suggestion contained in the last mentioned report, and in
the letter of the General-in-chief, relative to the estab
lishment ol an asylum for ttie relief of disabled and des
titute soldiers. This subject appeals so strongly to your
sympathies that it would be superfluous in me to say any
thing more, than barely to express iny cordial approba
tion of the proposed object.
The navy continues to give protection to our commerce
and other national interests in the different quaiters of
the globe, and with the exception of a single steamer on
the Northern lakes, the vessels in commission are distrib
uted in six different squadrons.
The report of the head of that Department will exhibit
the services of these squadrons, and of the several ve.-sels
employed in each during the past year. It isa source of
gratification that, while they have been constantly pre
pared for any hostile emergency, they have everywhere
nu t with the respect and courtesy, due as well to the
dignity as to (he peaceful dispositions and just purposes
of the nation.
The two brigantines accepted by the Government from
a generous citizen of New York, and placed under the
command of an officer of the navy, to proceed to the Ar
tie seas in quest ol the British Commander, Bir John
Franklin, and his companions, in compliance with the
act of Congress, approved in May last, had, when last
heard from, penetrated into a high Northern latitude ; but
the success of this noble and humane enterprise is still
uncertain.
I invite your attention lo the View of our present na
val establishment and resources presented in the re|Hirt
ofthe Secretary of the Navy, and tbe suggestions therein
made for its improvement, together with the naval policy
recommended for the security of our Pacific Coast, and
the protection und extension of our commerce with Eas
tern Asia. Our facilities fora larger participation in the
trade nf the East by means of out recent settlentenis on
the shores of the Pacific, are too obvious to be overlook
ed or disregarded.
The questions in relation to rank in the army and
navy, and relative rank between officers ot the two
branches of the service, presented to the Execu
tive by certain resolutions ol Kcpre
sentalivcs, at the last session of Congress, have
been submitted to a board of officers in euch branch
of the service, and their report may be expected
at an early day.
I also earnestly recommend the enactment of a
law authorizing officers of the army and navy to
be retired from the service, w hen incompetent for
its vigorous and active duties, taking care to make
suitable pr. vision for those who have faithfully
served theii country, and awarding distinctions,
by retaining in appropriate commands those who
have been particularly conspicuous tor gallantry
and good conduct. While the obligation of the
country to maintain and honor those who, to the
exclusion of other pursuits, have di Voted them
selves to its arduous service, this obligation should
not be permitted to interfere with the efficiency of
the service itself.
I am gratified in being able to state, that the es
timates of expenditure for the navy in the ensuing
year are less, by more than one million of dollars,
than those of the present, excepting the approprb
ation which nifty become necessaiy for the Con
struction of a dock on the coast of ttie Pacific,
propositions for which are now being considered,
and on which a special report may be expected
early in your present session.
There is an evid nt justness in the suggestion
of the same report, that appropriations for the na
val service proper should be seperated from those
for fixed and permanent objects, such as building
docks nnd navy yards, and the fixtures attached ;
and from the extraordinary objects under the care
of the Department which, however important, are
not essentially naval.
A revision of the code for the government of the
navy seems to require the immediate consideration
of Congress. Its system of crimes aud punish
ments hud undergone no change for half a centu
ry, until the last session, though its defects have
been often and ably pointed out, and the abolition
of a particular species of corporal punishment,
which then took place, without providing any
substitute, has left the service in a state of defec
tiveness, which calls for prompt correction. I
therefore recommend that the whole subject he re
vised without delay, and such a system established
for the enforcement of discipline, as shall be at
once humane and effectual.
The accompanying report of the Postmaster
General, presents a satisfactory view of the ope
rations and condition of that Department-
At the dose of tbe last fiscal year, the length
of the inland mail routes in the United States
(not embracing the service in Oregon and Califor
nia) was one hundred and seventy-eight, thousand
six hundred and seventy-two miles; the annual
transportation thereon forty-six million five hun
dred ar.d forty one thousand f> ur hundred und
twenty-three miles; and the annual cost of such
transportation two millions seven hundred and
twenty-four thousand four hundred and twenty-six
dollars.
The increase of the annual transportation over
that of the preceding year, was three million nine
hundred anil ninety-si ven thousand three hundred
and fifty-four miles, and tire increase in cost was
three hundred and forty-two thousand four hun
dred nnd forty dollars.
The number of post oificesin the United States,
on tbe first day of July last, was eighteen thousand
four hundred and seventeen —being an increase of
sixteen hundred and seventy during the preced
ing year.
The gross revenue of the Department for the
fiscal year ending June 30th, 1850, amounted to
five millions five hundred and fifty-two thousand
nine hnudred and seventy-one dollars and fonv
eiglit cents including the annual appropriation of
two bundled thousand dollars for the franked
matter ofthe Department, and excluding tbe for
eign postage collected for and p ivable to the Brit
ish Government;
The expenditures for the same period were five
millions two hundred und twelve thousand nine
hundred and fifty-three dollars anij forty three
cents —leaving a balance of revenue over expendi
tures of three hundred and forty thousand and
eighteen dollars and five cents.
1 am happy to find that the fiscal condition of
the Department is such tis tojustifiy the Postmas
ter General in recommending the reduction of our
inland letter postage to three cents the single let
ter w hen prepaid, and five cents when not prepaid.
He also recommends that the prepaid rates shall
be reduced to two cents whenever the revenues of
the Department, after the reduction} shall exceed
its expenditure by more than five percent lor two
consecutive years j that the postage upon Califor
nia and other letters sent by our ocean steamers
shall be much reduced ; arid that tire rates of pos
tage on newspapers, pamphlets, periodicals, and
other printed matter shall be modified, and some
reduction thereon made.
It cannot be doubted that the proposed reduc
tions w ill, for the present, diminish tue revenues
of the Department. It is believed that the defi
ciency, after the sui plus already accumulated shall
he exhausted, may be almost wholly met, either
by abolishing the exliisting privileges of sending
free matter through the mails, or by paying out of
tbe Treasury to tbe Tost Office Department a sum
equivalent lo the postage of which it is deprived
by such privileges. The last is supposed to be
the preferable mode, and will, if not entirely, so
ncaiiy supply the deficiency as to make any fur
ther appropriation Unit may be found necessary so
inconsiderable as to form no obstacle to the pro
posed reductions.
I entertain no doubt of tbe authority of Congress
to make appropriations for leading objects in that
class of public works comprising wbut are usually
called Works of internal improvement. This au
thority 1 suppose tube derived chiefly fiom the
|)ower ofregolaljng commerce with foreign nations,
arid among the States, and the power of laying and
collecting imposts. Where commerce is to be
can ied oil, and imposts collected, there must be
ports and harbors, as well as wharves and custom
houses. If ships, laden with valuable cargoes,
approach the shore, or sail along the coast, light
houses are necessary at suitable poinis for the
protection of life and property. Other facilities
and securities for commerce and navigation are
hardly less important; and those clauses :f the
Constitution, therefore, to w hich I have referred,
have received from the origin of the Government
a liberal and benificent construction. Not only
have light-houses, buoys, and beacons been estab
lished, anil floating lights maintained, but harbors
have been cleared and improved, piers construct
ed, and even breakwaters for the safety of ship
ping, and sea walls to protect harbors from being
filled up, and rendered useless by tbe action of the
ocean, have been erected at a very great expense.
And this construction of tbe Constitution appears
the more leasonable from the considetation, that
if these works, of such evident importance and
utility, are rot to be accomplished by Congress,
they cannot be accomplished at all. By the adop
tion of the Constitution tile several States volun
tarily parted w ith the power of collecting duties
of imposts in their own ports; and it is not to be
expected that they Arnold raise money by internal
taxation, direct or indirect, for the benefit of that
commerce, the revenues derived from which do
not, either in whole or in part, go into their own
treasuries.
Nor do I perceive any difference between the
power of C ingress to mflke appropriations for ob
jects of this kind on the ocean and the power to
make similar appropriations for similar object- on
lakes and Rivers, wiierever they are large’ enough
to bear on their w aters an extensive traffic. The
mag .ificent Mississippi nnd its tributaries, and the
vast lakes ofthe North ami Northwest, appear to
me to faii within the exercise of the power, as just
ly and as clearly as the Ocean and the Gull of
Mexico. Itisamistake to regard expenditure*
judiciously made for these objects as expenditures
lor local purposes. The position, or site of the
work, is necessarily local ; but its utility is gene
tal. A ship canal around the falls of St Marv of
less than a mile in length, though local in its con
struction, would yet he najional in its purpose and
its benefits, ns it would remove tbe only ob-trac
tion ton navigation of more than a thousand miles,
affeciing several States, as well as our commercial
relations with Canada. So, too, the Breakwater
at the month of the Delaw are is erected, rot for the
exclusive beta fit of the States bordering on the
bay and river of that imine, but for that of the
whole coastwise navigation of the U ited States;
and to a considerable extent also-of foreign com
merce. If a ship be lost on the bar at the entrance
of a Southern port, for want of sufficient depth of
water, it is very likely to be a Northern ship? and
if a steamboat be slink in any part of the Mississip*
pi; or. account of fta channel not being properly
cleared of obstructions, it may be a beat belongs
ing to either of eight or ten States. I may add, as
somewhat remarkable, that atnongall the thirty-one
(States, there if none that is not; to a greater or le*S
extent, bounded On the Ocean, or the Gulf of
Mexiqp, or one of the great lakes, or some navi*
gable river.
In fulfiling our constitutional duties, fellow*diti*
zrns, on this subject; or in carrying into effect all
other powers conferred bv the Constitution, we
should consider ourselves as deliberating aud
acting for one and the same country, arid bear con
stantly in mind, thar our regard and our duty are
due; not to a particulat part only, but lothe whole*
1 therefore recommend that appropriations be
rrmde for completing such works as have been al*
ready begun, and for commencing such others a*
may seem to the w isdom of Congress to boos
public and general impoiiftnce.
The difficulties and delays, incident to the set*
tlement of private claims by Congress, amount in
many cases to a denial of justice. There is reasou
to apprehend that many unfortunate Creditors of
the Government have thereby been unavoidably
ruined. Congress hits so much business of a pub*
lie character, that it is impossible it should give
much attention to mere private claims, and their
accumulation is now so great that many claimants
mtist despair of ever being able to obtain a hear*
ing. It may well be doubted w I.ether Congress;
from the nature of its organization, is properly con*
stunted to decide upon such cases. It is impossi*
ble that each member should examine the merits
of every clttim on Which ho is compelled to vote j
and it is preposterous to ask a judge to decide a
case which he has never heard. Such decisions
may, and frequently must, do injustice either to
the claimant or the Government, and I perceive
no better remedy for this growing evil than the es
tablishment of some tribunal to adjudicate upon
such claims. I beg leave, thotefore, most respect*
fully to recommend that provision be made by law
for the appointment of a commission to settle till
private claims against tht* United States ; and, as
an exfurte hearing must to till contested cases bo
very unsatisfactory, 1 also recommend the appoint*
rnent of a solicitor, whose duty it shall be to rep*
resent the Government before such commission;
and protect it against all illegal, fraudulent or un*
just claims, which may be presented for their nd*
judication.
This District, which has neither voice nor vote
in your deliberations, looks to you for protection
and aid,- and I commend all its w ants to your fuvu*
rable consideration, with a full confidence that yott
will meet them not only with justice; bit frith lib*
erality. It should he borne in mind that in this
ci'y, laid out by Washing'on, and consecrated by
his name, is located the Capitol of our nation, the
emblem of our Union and the symbol of otir great*
ness. Here also are situated all the politic build*
ings necessary for the use of the Government, and
all those are exempt front taxation. It should he
the pride of Americans to render this place at*
tractive to the people of the Whole Republic, and
convenient and safe for the transaction of the pub*
lie business and the preservation of the public
r* cords. The Government should therefore bear
a liberal proportion of the burdens of nil necessary
and useful improvements. And, as nothing could
contribute to the health, comfort, and safely of the
city, and the security of the public building* anti
records, than an abundant supply of pure w ater, I
respectfully recommend that you make .such pro
visions f.r obtaining the same as in your w isdom
you may deem proper.
The sict passed sit your last session; mftking cer
tain propositions to Texas fin- settling the dispu
ted boundary between that State and the Territory
ol New Mexico, was, immediately on its passage,
transmitted by express to the Governor of Texas,
to be laid by him before the General Assembly
for its agreement thereto. Its receipt was dulv
acknowledged, hut no official information has vet
been received of the action of the General As
sembly thereon; it may, however, be very soon ex -
peeled, as by the terms of the proposition submit
ted. they were to have hern acted bpoti, on or be
fore the first day of this present month;
It was hardly to have been expected that
series of measures passed at tour last session, with
the view of healing the sectional difference . which
had-sprung from the slavery imd territorial ques
tions, should at once have realized their beneficent
purpose. All mutual concession in the nature of
a compromise must necessarily he unwelcome to
men of extreme opinions. And though without
such concessions our Constitution could not have
been formed, and cannot he permanently sustained,
yet we l ave seen them made the subject of bitter
contmversy in both sections of the Republic. It
requited many months of discussion and delibera
tion to secure the concurrence of a majority of
Congress in their favor. It would he strange if
they had been received with immediate approha*
lion by people and states, prejudiced and heated
by the exciting controversies of their representa
tives. I believe those measures to have been re
quired by the circumstances and condition of the
country. I believe they were necessary to nllnv
asperities and animosities that w ere rapidly alien
ating one Section id the cout: try from another, and
destroying those fratesnal sentiments which nre
the strongest supports of the Constitution. They
were adopted in the spirit of conciliation. I be
lieve that it great majority of our fellow citizen*
sympathise in that spirit, and that purpose, and in
the main approve, and are prepared, in all respect*
to sustain these enact merits. I cannot doubt that
ihe American people* hound together by kindred
blood and common tradition*; still cherish a para
mount regard for the Union of their bathers, and
that they are ready to rebuke any attempt to vio
late is in egriiv. to disturb the * compromise* on
which it is based, or to resist the laws which htyve
been enacted under its authority.
The series of measure* to which I have alluded
are regarded hv me as a settlement, in principle
and substance — a final settlement, of” the danger
ous and exciting subjects Which they embraced.
*Vl"st of the subjects; indeed; are bpvond Vuur
reach, as the legislation which disposed of them
was, in its character; finifl and irrevocable. It
may be presumed from the opposition which they
ail encountered, that none tis th"se measures was
free front imperfections, l>(it in their mutual de
pendence nun connexion they formed a system of
Compromise, the mo*t conciliatory, and best for
t lit* entire country, that could he obtained from
conflicting sec tional interests and opinions.
I or this reason, I recommend your adherence
to the adjustment established by those measures,
until time and experience shall demonstrate the
necessity of further legislation to guard against
evasion or abase.
By that adjustment we have been recued from
the wide and boundless agitation that surround
ed us, and have a firm, distinct and legal ground
to rest upon. And the occasion, I trust, will justi
fy me in exhorting my countrymen to rally upon
and maintain that ground as the best, if not tha
only means, of restoring peace and quiet to the
country and maintaining inviolable the integrity
of the Union.
And now, fellow citizens. I cannot bring this
communication to a close without invoking you t 0
join me in humble and devout thunks to the Great
Ruler notions, lot the multiplied blessings which
He has graciously bestowed upon u*. His hand,
so often visible in our preservation, h is staved the
pestilence, savpd us from foreign w ars and domestic
disturbances, and scattered plenty throughout the
land.
Our liberties, religious and civil have been
maintained ? the fountains of knowledge liave all
been kept open, and means of happiness widely
spread and generally enjoyed; greater than have
fallen to the lot of any otiier nation. And, while
deeply penetrated with gratitude for the past, let
us hope that his all-wise Providence will so guide
our counsels, ns that they shall result in giving
satisfaction to our constituents, securing the peace
of the country, and adding new strength to tlie
united Government under which we live.
MILLARD FILLMORE.
Washington, December 2d, IP3O.
NUMBER 40,