US Presidency
1872

I recommend a careful revision of the present laws of the Territory by Congress, and the enactment of such a law ( the one proposed in Congress at its last session, for instance, or something similar to it ) as will secure peace, the equality of all citizens before the law, and the ultimate extinguishment of polygamy, Since the establishment of a Territorial government for the District of Columbia the improvement of the condition of the city of Washington and surroundings and the increased prosperity of the citizens are observable to the most casual visitor. The nation, being a large owner of property in the city, should bear, with the citizens of the District, its just share of the expense of these improvements. I recommend, therefore, an appropriation to reimburse the citizens for the work done by them along and in front of public grounds during the past year, and liberal appropriations in order that the improvements and embellishments of the public buildings and grounds may keep pace with the improvements made by the Territorial authorities. AGRICULTURE.