The Express.
London, England, 1850-01-09 00:00:00

THE PRESIDENTS MESSAGE

The Hibernia arrived at Liverpool this atoning,
with dates from New York to the 26th, and Halifax
29th ult. The President's Menage woe delivered on
the 24th, and is u follows :

et 1424 limas ni

Home of fliteseggathres
Sixty years lave eloped Ithe eallahlishment of this
government, and dm ammo et the united States again
assembles to Molthato hr en empire Ottoman. The Teethe-
dons of evil pe am** ethe formerly pretended to foretell
the downfall Moog imatindions, are nem monembered only
to be derided, and the Unitee States et *Maim at this mo-
ment prevent to the wield the met Mirk gad permanent
government ea earth.
flesh is the moult of the labours of those who have gam
bolero ua. Urea emgren will emlnemtly depend the future
mandamuses of ionst eyeless of tree government, sad the
tramaisnon of it, naimpaked, to posterity.
We are at peace with all the world, and soak lo main-
tain our cherished ?shalom of amity with the rest of
mankind. During the peel yeas we lave been blessed,
by a kind Provides, with an abetadante of tea fruits
of the earth; and, alth the destroys, earl. for
a time, visited exten-ire portion. of out unite."' with the
reeler's. of a dreadful pestilence, yet, the Almighty has at
length deigned to stay hie hand, sad to restore the ineed•
mable bleating of general health to a people who have'
acknowledged his power, deprecated his wrath, and its.
plated his merciful proteeitioa.
While enjoying the Meths of makable intenseness with
foreign native, we ham sot been inameible to the distrac-
tions and wan which have prevailed in other quarters of the
world. It is a peeper theme of thanksgiving to Him who
Mee the destinies of nations, that we hems been abe to
minutia, amidst all them comae, the independent and
neutral position towards all belligerent powers.
Our relations with (heat Britain are of the most blandly
character. In consequence of the remit alteration of the
British navigation seta, British vessels, from British and
other foreign ports, will (under our existing laws), alter the
first day of January next, be admitted to entry in our ports,
with cargoes of the growth, mannfeetam, or producuon of
any put of the world, on the same terms as to duties, im-
petus, and charges, as mode of the United States with their
cargoes; and our vessels will be admitted to the same ad-
vantages in British pone, enteric, therein on the lame terms
as British vessels. Should no order in council disturb this
legislative arrangement, the late act of the British parlia-
ment by which Great Britain is brought within the terms
proposed by the act of congress of the let of March, 1817,
it is hoped, will be productive of benefit to both countries.
A slight iuterraotion of diplomatic intercourse, which oc-
curred totems this government and France, I am happy to
my, has been terminated, and our 'minister there has been
received. It is therefore unnecessary to refer, now, to the
eireamminom which led to that interruption. I need not
express to you the sincere malefaction with which we shall
welcome the arrival of another envoy extraordinary and mi-
nister plenipotentiary hom a sister republic, to which we
have so long been, and still remain, bound by the strongest
ties of amity.
Shortly after I had entered upon the discharge of the ex-
ecutive duties, I was apprised that a war steamer, belonging
to the *emus empire was being fitted out in the harbour of
New York, with the aid of some of our naval °Man, ten.
dered under the permission of the late secretary of the navy.
This permintha was granted during an armistice between
that empire and the kingdom of Denmark. which had been
espied in the Schleswig. Holstein war. Apprehensive that
this act of intervention on our part, might be viewed as a vio-
lation of our Pruned obligation. incurred by the treaty with
Denmark, and of the previsions of the act of Congress of the
20th of April, 1818, I directed that no further aid should be
rendered by any agent or °Meer of the navy; and I in-
structed the secretary of state to apprise the enmesh r of the
Garman empire accredited to this government, of my deter-
mination to execute the law of the Ualted States, and to
maintain the faith of treaties with all nation,. The cones •
pondeme which ensued between the department of %tate and
the minister of the German empire is herewith laid before
you. The execution of the law, and the observance of the
treaty, were deemed by me to be due to the honour of the
country, as well as to the sacred obligations of the constitu-
tion. I shall not fail to pursue the same mune should a
similar case arise with any other nation. Having avowed
the opinion on taking the oath of office, that ia disputes be-
tween conflicting foreign governments, it is our interest not
less than our duty to remain strictly neutral, I shall not
abandon it. You will perceive from •he correspond's*. sub-
mitted to you, in connexion with this subject, that the course
adopted in this cam ban been properly regarded by the
belligerent powers interested in the matter.
Although a minister of the United Suites to the German
empire was appointed by my predeceeeor, in August, 1848,
and has for a long time time been in attendance at Frank-
fort-on-the-Maine; and although a minister, appointed to
represent that empire, was received and accredited here, yet
no such government as that of the German empire has
been definitively cowered. Mr. Domani:4 our represen-
tative at Frankton, remained there several months, in the
expectation that a union of the German states, under one
constitution or form of government, might at length be
organised. It is believed oy those well acquainted
wish the existing rename between Prussia and the
stem of Germany, that no such union can be per-
manently establisbed without her co operation. In the
of the formation of such a union and the organisation
of a central power in Germany, of which the should form a
part it would become rosemary to withdraw our minister at
Berlin ; but while Prima exists as an independent kingdom
and diplomatic relearn are maintained with her, there can
be no necessity for the continuance of the mission to Frank-
fort. I have, therefore, recalled Mr. Donnelson, and directed
the archives of the legation at Frankton to be transferred to
the American legation at Bailin.
Having been apprised that a considerable number of ad-
venturers were 'Dread in fitting out a military expedition
within the United Stater, against a foreign country, and bte
Having, from the best information I could obtain, that it was
destined to invade the island of Cubs, I deemed it due to the
friendly relations existing between this United States and
Spain, to the treaty between the two nations, to the laws of
the United States, and above ell to the American honour, to
exert the lawful authority of this government in suppressing
the expedition and p Mg the invasion. To this end I
issued a proclamation, enjoining it upon the °Moen of the
Limited States, civil and military, to use all lawful means
within their power. A orpy of that proclamation is herewith
submitted. The expedition has ;been suppressed. S r long
as the act of congress of the 20th of April, 1818, which owes
its existence to the law of nations and to the policy of Wash-
Merton himself, shall remain on our statute book, I hold it to
be the duty of the executive istithfully to obey its injunctions.
While this expedition was in propose I was informed that
a foreigner, wbo claimed our protection, had been clan-
destinely, and, as was supposed forcibly, carried off in a
vessel from New Orleans to the island of Cuba. I im-
mediately caused such steps to be taken as I thought
necessary, in ease the information I had reesived sheald
prove correct, to vindicate tbe honour of the country,
and the right of every person seeking an asylum on
our soil to the protection of OW laws. The person al-
leged to have been abducted was promptly restored, and the
circumstances of the case are now about to undergo investi•
gation before • judicial tribunal. I would respectfully sug-
gest, that although the crime charged to have been com-
mitted in this case, is held odious ea being in wiliest with
OW opinions on tee subject of national sovereignty and per-
sonal freedom, there is no prohibijoo of it. or punishment
for it, provided in any act of Congress. The expediency of
supplying this defect in our criminal code is therefore re-
commended to your consideration.
I have scrupulously avoided any interference in the wets
and contentions which have recently distracted Bumps.
During the late conflict between Austria and Hun-
gary, there seemed to be a prospect that the latter might
become an independent nation. However faint that
prospect at the time appeared, I thought It my duty,
in accordance with the general sentiment of the Ame-
rican people, who de ply sympathised with the Memo
patriots to stand prepared, upon the contingency of the es-
tablishment by her of a permenent government, to be the
first to welcome independent Hungary into the Lam ly of
nations. For this purpose I invested an agent, then in
Europe, with power to declare our willingness promptly to
recognise her Independence, is the event of her ability to
sustain it. The pewerfal intervention of limns, in the con-
test, extingaiseed the him of the struggling Magyar,. The
United States did not, at any time, interfere in the contest;
but the feelings of the nation were strongly enlisted in the
cause, and by the sufferings of • brave people, who had made
a gallant though unsuccessful effort to be free.
Our claims upon Portugal ham been, during tt • past
year, persecuted with reamed vigour, and it has
Nen my object to employ ffort of honourable
diplomacy to procure their adjustment. Our late
Charge d'Aff eine at Lisbon, the Hon. George W. Hop
-
kips, made able and eat rge tic but unsuccessful efforts to mile
these unpleasant. ma of coutroversy, and to obtain in-
demnity for the wrongs which were the subjects of complaint.
Our present Charge d'Affaire at that court will also bring to
the presecution of the at claims ability end seal. Tee rem-
lationary and entreated condition of Portugal, is past SUMS,
has b en represented as one of the Wale, causes of her delay
in indenanstrog our suffering /edam. But I must now say
it is matter of profound regret that than class have not been
soit'cd. The omission of P rtugal to do justice to the Ame-
rican claimers has now assumed a character so grave and
serious that I shall shortly make it the subject of a mecial
message to Coerce.. with a view to sash ultimate Mimi se
its wisdom end patriotism may suggest.
With Russia, Austria. Prussia, Sweden, Denmark, Bel-
gium, the Neleuleads, and the Italian States, we still main-
bin our accustomed emiciable relations.

--Daring the meat revolatioea Ia the Papa Stater. Ow
Charge d'Affsirs at Rome Lae Imo whit, to plant his

Maar of Irriatee, whisk indeed be was digested by sizz:
detemee to wilikbolit mall los Mould roosivo timber
Bub vim the misstioil modifies of Mimi 6i Ibis, Mates,
tt Y aft bluing ompolissit to_olos bin soy in-
sinrisms on tbo sollost of prossaft Ids asoinstial letter,
faded Ism dhow. idi vrb ►be MI boss fandebod by tlio
Imo admishbosisn, WWI tbo lftli of hiss Ist; when,
Is of dm wont of sosersto ishosistion of
the Mao of ildsys at tot disuses boa no be nos
to tonsubs lib am diesmtio• Is promoting
biansaleadettie lbw oil*.
so somninient, if in Ids judgment,
sloth; or If sit, swat further events. Sines
list Uses bos erimoo soother revolution, and
be estebiblimest Ma Rovenommt sagleimaly
neemitp.r-
-i. Justify bite is speaking diplomatic ieteremme
with

the blie of Neale, it i ear true policy to culti-
vate the'nest Meadly relatioes. Sine the ratification of the
treetyirlarftidt alogpe &Obis, has occurred of a
'slim it to diets* them. A faithful efeertanes el
the , end a ebony Pupae Ow her rights, cannot fail to
i 5.... the cenldenes gad Misdehip of that republic.
Theof loPiliedeseeme le die Meese of Repeesenta-
thee, Wile Oth et Fehentry legt, eemmanniatting, in sompli-
awe with a resehilios of that badly. • espy of a paper called •
' presseol, signed as Qearetere en the SO* of thy, 1849, by
the seweelmisseas of the Uniting Bales mg the .Bolter of
Melo Oahe el the Waken goverment, Mobs hen •
:rillel alvisponilsnes betimes the depastmeat of State
Bury Inmeerdinary sad Insister Pleuipotentiary
of that rePtle auggeted to this government,' transcript of
that esi. Is herewith submitted.
The ims on the part of the Milted States for
marking the bossing %stases the two republics, though
delayed la rsoshistig San Diego by unforeseen obstacles,
attired at that plan within • short period after
the time required by the treaty, and was there joined
by the Commissioner on the part of Mexico. They
entered upon their duties; and at the date of
the latest intelligence from that quarter, some
program bad been made in the survey. The em
rtsnea incident to the organisation of the commission, and to
ss en
o sliveyence to the point where its operations were to begin,
have so much reduced the fend appropriated by Congress,
that • further sum, to Bever the charges which must be
{awned during the present fiscal year, will be necessary.
The peat length of frontier aleag which the boundary
extends', the nature of the adjacent territory, and the diffi-
culty of obtaining supplies, except at or near the extremes
of the line, render it also indispensable that a liberal provi.
sins should be made to meet the necessary charges during
the Meal year ending on the 30th of Jane, 1851. I accord-
ingly recommend this subject to year attention.
In the adjustment of the claims of American citizens on
Mexico, provided for by the late treaty, the employment of
counsel on the part of the government may i:ectotne import-
ant, for the purpose of assisting the commissioner in pro.
tenting the interests of the United States. I recommend
this subject to the early and favourable consideration of
Congress.
Complaints have been mule in regard to the inefficiency of
the means provided by the government of New Grenada,
for transporting the United States mail across the Isthmus of
Passau, pursuant to our postal convention with that republic,
of the 6th of March, 1844. Oar Charge d'Affaire at Sego's'
has been d rested to make such representations to the
of New Grenada as will, it is hoped, lead to a prompt
removal of this cause of complaint.
The sanguinary civil war with which the republic of
Venezuela has for some time past been ravaged, has been
brought toe close. Inlits progress, the rights of some of our
citizens, resident or trading there, have bees violated. The
restoration of order will afford the Venezuelan government
an opportunity to examine and redress these grievances, and
ethers of longer standing, which our representatives at
Canons have, hitherto, ineffectually urged upon the atten-
tion of that government.
The extension of the coast of the United States, on the
Pacific, and the espied rapility with which the inha-
bitants of California, especially, are increasing in numbers,
have imparted new oonseerzence to our relations with the
other countries whose territories border upon that ocean.
It is probable that the intercourse between those countries
and our possessions In that quarter, particularly with the
republic of Chili, will become extensive and mutually given-
tageoui, in proportion as California and Oregon shall in-
crease in populatioa and wealth. It is desirable, therefore,
that this government should do everything in its power to
foster and strengthen its relations with those States, and that
the spirit of amity between us should be mutual and cordial.
I recommend the observance of the same COMM towards
all other American States. The Muted States stand as the
Brat American power to which, as their natural ally and
friend, they will always be disposed, first, to look for media-
tion and assistance, in the event of any colliden between
them and any European nation. ate such, we may often
kindly mediate in their behalf, without entangling ourselves
in foreign wars or Renee sarty controversies. Wh e the
faith of our treaties with any of them shall require OW inter-
ference, we must nuesesrily interpose.
A conyeatien has beet aegotlated with Bruit, providing
for the satisfaction of American claims on that government,
and it will be submitted to the Senate. Since the last ses-
sion of Congress, we have received an Motu Extraordinary
and Minister Plenipotentiary from that Empire, and our
relations with it are founded upon the most amicable under-
standing.
Your attention is earnestly invited to an amendment of
our existing laws relating to the African slave trade, with a
view to the off, meal suppression of that barbarous traffic.
It is not to be denied that this trade is still, in part, carried
on by means of vessels built in the United States, and owned
or navigated by some of our °thins. The correspondence
between the department of State and the minister and consul
of the United States at Riede Janeiro, which has from time
to time been laid before Congress, represents that it is a can
tolues7 device to evade the penalties of our laws by means
of sea letters. Vessels sold in Brazil, when provided with
snob papers by the consul, instead of returning to the United
States for a new register, proceed at once to the coast of
Africa, for the purpose of obtaining cargoes of slaves. Mach
additional information of the same character has recently
been transmitted to the department of State. It has not been
considered the policy of our laws to subject an American
citizen, who, in • foreign country, purchases a vessel built in
the United States, to tie inconvenience of sending her home
for a new register, before permitting ht r to proceed on a
voyage. Any alteration of the laws which might have a ten-
dency to impede the free transfer of property in vessels be-
tween oar citizens, or the free navigation of those vessels be-
tween different parts of the world, when employed in lawful
commerce, should be well and cautiously considered; bat I
trust that your wisdom will devise a method by which oar
general policy in this respect may be preserved, and at the
same time the *SUM of our flag by means of sea-letters in the
manner indicated may be prevented.
Having ascertained that there is no prospect of the re-
union of the five States of Cenral America, which formerly
composed the republic of that name, we have separately ne-
gotiated with some of them treaties of amity and commerce,
which will be laid before the Senate.
A contract having been concluded with the State of Ni-
caragua by a company composed of American citizens, for
the purpose of custructing a ship canal through the ter-
ritory of that State, to connect the Atlantic and Pacific
oceans, I have diremed the negotiations of a treaty with Ni-
mugs', pledging both governments to protect those who
shelf emermte in and perfect the work. All other nations are
invited by the S ate of Nicaragua to enter into the same
treaty stipulations with her; and the benefit to be derived by
each from such an arrangement will be the protection of this
great inter-oceanic communication against say power which
might seek to obstruct it or to monopolise its advantages.
All stasis entering into such a treaty will enjoy the right of
passage through the canal, on payment of the same tolls.
The work, if constructed under three guarantees, will be-
come a band of peace, instead of • subject of contention and
strife, between the nations of the earth. Should the gnat
maritime states of Europe consent to this arrangement (and
we have oo remon to suppose that a proposition so fair and
honourable will be opposed by any) the energies of their peo-
ple and ours will co operate in promoting its success I d.)
not rew =mend any appropriation from the national
treasury for this purpose, nor do I believe that such an ap
proprieties is necessary. Private enterprise, it properly pro-
tected, will complete the work, should it prove so be fusible.
The parties who have procured the chart. r from Nicaragua
for its constructii is, desire no assistance from this govern-
ment beyond its protection; and they profew that, having
examined the proposed fine of communication, they will be
reedy to commence the undertaking whenever that protection
shall be extended to them. Should there appear to be rea-
son on examinirg the whole evidence, to entertain a serPus
douht of the practicability of constructing each • canal, that
doubt could be speedily solved by an actual exploration of
the route.

Should such a work be constructed, under the common
peot►ctloa of all nations, for equal oenefl•s to all, it wouli be
neither just nor expedient that any great maritime state
should command the enmmuniee•iou. The territory through
which the cilia may be opened ought to be treed from the
claims of any ioreign power. No such power should occupy
a position that would enable it her. atter to rserci.e so con-
trolling en Influence over t►e examen* of the world, or to
obstruei a highway which ought to be dedicated to the com-
mas u•e of mankind.

The routes across the Isthmus at Tehuantepec and Panama
ars also worthy of our serious consideration. T nsy did not
fall to engade Pie attrntion of my vri-dveessor. The node-
tater of the WA, of Goadsloupe Hidalgo was instructed to
offer very large sums of money for the right of 'transit across
she Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Ti. Mexican government did
not accede to the proration for the yard's,' of the right
of was, probably beam* it had already contracted with
private individuals 'or the ,enstructi.to of • passage frost
the() 11311110.10110 river to Tiluantopee. I shall not renew
say progo ition M purehme for money a right wbith
ought to be squally secured to all nations, on payment
of a rvasor able toil to the owners of the improvement, who
would, doubtless, be well contented with that compensation
and the guarea'ses of the m Adele states of lb • wield, in
o•Oaf4to ire dies negoeiated wlti Mexico, binding her and
them is protest these who should construct tie work. Such
goarat.tess would do more to secure the ColoPlotioo of tie
communimion through the territory of Mex,co than any
other reasonable eunsideratifin that could be offered ; and
Me herself would be the greatest gainer by the open.

' log of this sommeeleados between the OW and site Paulo
Omen, It is presemed diet she wee net imitate to yield
her aid in the MINN if parpeset. to essempihken improve-
ment as important le harem beet iateeesta.
We have reason to hope that the repast tadroad woes
the Isthmus at Panama will lie enseemeells mast:noted
seder the praselima of the late treaty with New Grenada,
regisdned easlimpel by my redeemer en the 10. h day of
June, MS, w• teen the parteM ntudrality of the
islosse, sad the of sovereignty and property of New
Greeted& over vim tory, " with a view that a tree transit
Item mean te mesa may not be interrupted or embarrased"
daring the smishoss of the treaty. It is our policy to en-
courage every peestlesble route across the Isthmus, which
asmareets North aid Smith America, either by railroad or
semek, white the mew and enterpnre of oar citizens may
Whew than le ; and I consider it obligatory upon
see Is adept that , especially in consequence of the ab-
saints sesemity Sating intercourse with oar possession
ea the Pacific.

The position of tha Sandwich Islands with reference
to the territory of the United States en the Pacific; tke
nooses of oar persevering sad benevolent citizens who
have repaired to that remote quarter in christianizing
the natives, and Inducing them te adopt a system of
government and laws, suited to their capacity and
wants, and the use made by our numerous whale shins
of the harbours of the islands, as planes of resort for ob-
taining refreshments and repairs, all combine to render their
destiny peculiarly Interesting to us. It is our duty to en-
courage the authorities of those islands in their efforts to
improve end elevate the moral and political condition of the
inhabitents• and we should make reasonable allowances for
the difficulties inseparable front this task. We desire that
the islands may maintain their independence. and that
other nations should concur with as in this sentiment. We
could in so event be indifferent to their
.passing under the
dsminion of any other power. The principal commercial
states have in this a common interest, and it is to be hoped
that no one of them will attempt to interpose obstacles to the
entire independence of the islands. •
The receipts into the Treeing for the fiscal year ending
on the 30th of June last, were in cash forty-sight millions
eiget hundred and thirty thousand ninety-seven dollars and
fifty cents (48,830,097,60 dollars), and in Treasury note•
funded, ten millions eight hundred aed thirty-three thousand
dollen (10,533,000 dollars), making an aggregate of fifty-
nine millions ale hundred and sixty-three thousand ninety-
seven dollars and fifty cents; and the expenditures, for the
11M113 time, ware, in cash, forty-six millions seven hundren
an! ninety-eight theumind six hundred and sixty-seven dol-
lars and eighty-two 'tents, and in Treasury notes funded, ten
millions eight hundred and thirty-three thousand dollars,
making an aggregate of fifty-seven millions ax hundred and
thirty-one thousand six hundred and sixty-seven dollars and ,
eighty-two orate.
The accounts and estimates which will bs submitted to
Congress in the Report of the Secretary of the Treasury,
show that there will probably be a deficit, occasioned by the
ezpenoes of the Mexican war and treaty, on the first day of
July next, of five millions, eight hundred and twenty-eight
thousand, one hundred and twenty-one dole. and sixty. six
cents, and on the first day of July, 1851. of ten millions, five
hundred and forty-seven thousand, and ninety two dole. and
seventy-three eenu., making in the whole a probable deficit, to
be provided for, of sixteen millions, three hundred and
seventy-five thousand, two hundred and fourteen dole. and
thirty-nine cents. The extraordinary expenses of the
war with Mexico, and the purchase of California asd
New Mexico, exceed in amount this deficit, togetner
with the loans heretofore made for these objects.
I therefore recommend that authority be given to borrew
whatever sum may be necessary to cover that deli, it. I re-
commend the observance of strict economy in eke appropria-
tion and expenditure of public money.
I recommend a revision of the existing tariff, and its ad-
justment on a boats which may augment the . I do
not doubt the right or duty of Congress to encourage domestic
industry-, which is the great mums of national as well as in
dividual wealth and prosperity. I look to the wisdom and
patrio'ism of Congress for the adoption of a system which
may place home labour, at last, ou a rare and permanent
footing, and, by due encouragement of manufactures, give
a new and increased stimulus to agriculture, and promote
the development of our vast resources and the extension
of our commerce. Believing that to the attainment of
these ends (as well as the necessary euententetion of the
revenue and the prevention of frauds), a system of specific
duties is best adapted, I strongly recommend to congress
the adoption of that system, fixing the duties at rates high
enough to afford sufficient and eulatantial encouragement to
our own industry, cad at the lame time so adjusted as to
insure stability.
The question of the continuance of the sub-treasury system
is is spectlully submitted to the wisdom of congress. If con-
tinued, important modifications of it appear to be iaais.
passable.
Fur further details and views on the above and other
matters connected with commerce, the finances, and revenue,
I refer to the report of the secretary of the treasury.
No dirt aid has been given by the general government
to the improvement of agriculture, except by the expe minute
of small sums for the collection and publication of agricul-
tural statistics, and for some chemical analyses, which have
been, thus far, paid for out of the patent fund. This aid i.,
in my opinion, wholly inadequate. To give to this leading
branch of American industry the encouragement which it
merits, I respectfully recommend the establishment of an
agricultural bureau' to be connected with the Department of
the Interior. To elevate the social condition of the agricul-
turist, to increase his prosperity, and to extend his means of
usefulness to his country, by multiplying his sources of infor-
mation, shoted be the study of every statesman, and a pri-
mary object with every legislator.
No civil government having been provided by Covert's
for California the people of that territory, impelled by the
necessities of their political condition, recently met in con-
vention for the pewee of forming a constitution and State
government which, the latest advises give me reason to sup-
pose, has been accomplished ; and it is believed they. will
shortly apply for the admission of California in the Union as
a sovereign Sire. Should such be the ease, and should
their constitution be conformable ti the requisitions of the
constitution of the United States, I recommend their appli•
cation to the favourable consideration of Congress.
The people of New Mexico will also, it is believed, at
no very distant period, present themselves for admission
into the Union. Preparatory to the admission of Celifiraia
and New Mexico, the people of each will have instituted for
themaelves a republican form of government,' laying its
foundation in such principles, and organising its powers in
each form, as to them shall seem moat likely to effect their
safe., and happiness."
By awaiting their action, all mules of uneasiness
may ba avoided, and confidence end kindly feeling pre-
served. With a view of maintaining the harmony and
tranquility so dose to all, we should abstain from the
intrduction of those exciting topics of a sectional character
which have hitherto produced painful apprehensions in the
public mind; and I repeat the solemn warning of the firm
and most illustrious of my predecessors against furnishing
"any ground for charactertuag perdu by geographical Mr
crimincions."
A collector has been appointed at San Francisco, under
the act of Congress extending the revenue laws over Cali-
fornia ; and measures have been taken to organise the custom-
houses et that and the other ports mentioned in that act at
the earliest period prantic.ble. The collector proceeded
overland and advice' have not yet been received of hi.
arrival at San Francisco. Meanwhile, it is understood
that the customs have continued to he collected there by
officers acting under the military authority, as they were
during the administration el u.y predeces•or. It will, I
think, be expedient to confirm the collections thus made,
and dir set the avails (after such allowances as Courts. may
think fit to authorise) to be expended within the territory,
or to he paid into the Treasury, for the purpose of meeting
appropriations for the improvement of its rivers and bar-
' hours. _ .

A party engaged on the coast purvey was despatched to
Oregon in January last. According to the latest advice',
they had not left California, and directions have been given
to them, as soon as they shall have axed on the sites of the
two lighthouse• and the buoys authorised to be constructed
and placed in Oregon, to proceed without delay to mike
re-
connoisancea of the most important points on the toad of
California, and especially to examine and determine on sites
for liehthone s on that coast, the speedy erection of which is
urgently demanded by our npioly increasing commerce.
I have transferred the Indian agencies from Upper Mis-
souri and Council Bluffs to Seam Fe sod Salt Lake ; and
h ive caused to be appointed sub-agents in the Tell. ye of the
Ode, the Sacramento, and Sm Joaquin tires. Still further
legal provisions will be necessary for he effective and success-
tal extension of our system of Indian intercour,e over the
new territories.
I r commend the establishment of a branch mint in Cali.
fonds, a. it will, in my optni in. afford important f cildies to
those engaged in mining, as well as to the government in the
dispo-ition of the mineral lands.
I also recommend that commisaions be organised by Con-
gress to examine and decide upon the validity of the present
sub icing land titles iu California and New Milieu, and that
proasion be made for the reataleishment of elf--vs of surveyor
generel in New Mexico, California, and Oregon, and for the
surveying and bringing into market the public lends in
thew• territories. Thin leads resume in position and ditti-
co.t of acecu, ought to be disposed of 0.. terms liberal to
all, bet PIN daily tavourahle to the early emigrants.
In order that the situation and character of the princital
aeposites in California may be ascertained, I Torme-
nted that a gaol xical and mineralogical exploration be con-
nected with the linear surveys and that the mineral lends be
.11,11 .1 into small lots salable for mining, and be depose I
of by eel. or lease so as to give ear ntis tee en opientunity
el procuring a permanent right of prop. ray in the soil. Ton
*mild em to be as important to the PUMAS of mining as of
ural pursuits.
The greet mineral wealth of California and the advantages
whines its ports and harbors, and those of Oregon afford to com-
merce, e. peeiery with the islands of the the Pacific and I adieu
nesaie,and the populous regions el Bedard Asia make at certain
that there will arise, in stew yea-s, illfge and rasp. roes com-
munities on out western coast. It, therefore, becomes import-
' tent moat a line ofcommunication, the best and most ezpedll-
Was waiols the nature of the ant..try will admit, should be
opened within the United htates, from the navigable

waters of the Atlantic or the Gulf of Mexico, to the Peelle.
Opiates se elicited and expressed by two large sad respectable
cosventions, lately assembled at St. Lows and Memphis.
points to a railroad as that which, if practicable, will beet
meet the wishes and wents of the country. But while this if
in somesefal operation, wield bee work of great national
iaa-
porhnee, and of a value to the country which it, would he diffi-
cult to estimate, it ought ii. tabs regarded se an undertaking
of vast magni•nde and expense, and one which must, if it be
indeed practicable, semester many difficulties in its erje,.
stenction and we. Thereinto, to avoid failure and dials.
pointment ; to enable congress to Indite whether in Nee
condition of the country. through which it must pan, the
work be feasible, and U tt be found so, whether it should be
undertakenas a national improvement or left to individual's-
terpries ; and in the latter alternative, what aid, if any, ought
to be extended to it by the government.' I recommend as a pre
liminary measures careful recannolimance of the several pro-
posed routes bye scientific corps, and a report as to the practi-
cability of making such a road, with the estimate of the con
of its construction and support
For further views on these an:. other matters connected
with the duties of the home department, I refer 3ou to the
report of the Secretary of the Interior.
I recommend early appropriation for continuing the river
and harbour improvements which have been already begun,
and also for the oonstructioa of those for which estimate;
have been made, es well u for examinations and alienates
preparatory to the commencement of such others as the
wants of the country, and especially the advance of oar
population over new districts, and the extension of com-
merce may render necessary. An estimate of the amount
which can be advantageously expended within the seat fiscal
you, under the direction of the Bureau of Trpoprapitical
Bogie eon, accompanies the repot of the storetary of war, to
which I respectfully invite the attention cf Congest'.
The cession of territory made by the late treaty with
Mexico has greatly extended our exposed frontie•, and ren-
dered its defence moredifficult. That treaty has also brought
us under obligations to Mexico, to comply with which a
military force is requisite. But our military estiblishment
is not materially changed, as to its efßciency, from the
condition in which it stood before the commencemeat of the
Mix can war. Seas addition to it will therefore be neces-
sary; and I recommend to the favourable consideration of
congress an increase of the several carpi of the army at our
distant western p .sts, as proposed in the accompanying re
port of the secretary of war.
Great embarrassment has resulted from the effect upon
rank in the army, heretofore given to brevet and staff com-
missioners. The views of the secretary of war on this sub-
ject are deemed important, and it carried into effect will, it
is believed, promote the harmony ot the service. The
plan proposed for retiring disabled officers and providing an
as) lum for such of the rank and file as from age, wounds,
and other infirmities occasioned by service have become
unfit to perform their respective duties, is recommended as
a means of increasing the efficiency of tee army, and as an
tot of justice, duel rom a grateful cJuntry to the faithful
soldier.

The accompanying report of the Secretary of the Navy
presents a full and satisfactory acc :oat of the concbtioa
and operations of the naval service during the past year.
Our citizen, nipped in the legitimate pursuits of com-
merce hare enjoyed its benefits. Wnerever our national
vessels have gone, they have been rectiv:d with retire, our
officers have been treated with kindness and courtesy, and
they have, on all occasions, pursued a course of strict neu-
trality, in accordance with the p iilco of our goeerorecnt.
The naval force at present in COMI:Iii..6OO, is LI large &I is
admissible with the number of men authorised by conresa
to be employ, d.
I invite your attention to the recommendation of the se-
cretary of the navy, oa the subject of reorganisation of the
navy, in its various grades of cffioers, and the ettebtishi-:g of
a retired list for tun of the officers as are disqual.fieo for
active and effective service. Should Congress apopt some
such measures as is recommended, it will greatly increase the
efficiency of the navy, and reduce i•s expenditures.
I also ask your attention to the views expressed by him is
reference to the employment of war steamers, and in regard
to the contracts fur the transportation of the United
States mails, and the operation of the system upon the pros-
perity of the navy.
efißy an act of congress, passed August 14th, 1849, provisioa
was made for extending pcstoffice 1:16211 accommu4ations
to California and Oregon. Exertions hays been sonde to
execute that law; but the limited provisions of the act, the
inadequacy of the means it authorises, the iii adaptation of
our post-office laws to the atuation of that country, and the
measure of compensation for services al:owed by those laws
compared with the prices of labour and rents in California,
render thou exertions, in a great degree, ineffectual. Mere
particular and efficient provision by taw is required on thr
subject.
The act of 1845, reducing postage, has now, by its opera-
tion eluting four years, produced reaolts fully showing that
the income from such reduced postage is sufficient to sustain
the whole expense of the service of tut Post Office Depart-
ment, not including the expense of transportation in mail
steamers on the lines from New Yak to Chases, and from
Panama to Astoria,;which have net been considered by Coe-
geese as properly belonging to the m t 1 service.
It is submitted to the wiafom of Congress whether a fur-
ther reduction of postage should not now be made, more pile-
ticularly in the letter correspondence. This should be relieved
from the unju.t burthen of transporting and delieeriug the
franked matter of Congress, for wLich public service provi-
sion mould be made from the treasury. I confident.y her-
lieu, that a change may be safely mule, reducing all single
lstter postage to tee uniform rate of live cents. regsrdiess of
distance, witnout thereby imposing any greater tax on the
treasury than would constitute a very moderate compensa-
tion for this public service, and I therefore respectfully
recommend such a reduo ion. Should Corpus prefor to
abolish the Caulking privilege emir-:y, it seems probable
that no demand on the treasure would result from the pie-
posed reduction of postage. Wh,ther any further diminu-
tion should niw be made, or the result of the redue.:on to
five cents, which I have recommended, should be first tested,
is •übmitted to your decision.
Since the commencement of the last session of congreser
a postal treaty with (heat Britaia has been received and
ratified, and such regulations hare been Lensed by the Pest.
office departmews ot the two atuntries in pursuance of that
treaty as to carry its provisions into full op:ration. The
attempt to extend this same arrangement, through England,
to France, has not been equally suciessiul; but the pupae
has not been abandoned.

Fur *particular statement of the comlition of the Pat-
office department, and other maven concocted with that
branch of the public service, I refer yea to the capon of the
Postmuter•General.

By [he act of the 3d of March, 1849, • B ,and was cam-
gilded to make arrangements for taking teki, g the :seventh
census, composed of the Secre,fary of State, the Attorney-
General, and the Po:totalisator General ; and it was made the
duty of this B and to prepare and sssss to be printed nob
forms and schedules as ceigh7 be necessary kr the full ewes
meration of the inhabitants of the United States; and ales
proper forms an dechedules fore dlectiagetatuiical tables, taw
der proper heads, such inte rasa, a as to aiurs, age culti
commerce, manufactures, education, end other topics a; weal'
exhibit a full view of the pureuits, industry, education.
and resources of the actuary. The duties cnjoinot rpm
the census board, thus establish. d, having been p, eased,
it now rests with congress to enact a law :Or carding :ate
effect the provision of the titutien which requires an
antes' enumersuon of the people et the United States within
the ensuing year.
Among the duties auigned by the constitution to the
general government is one of l.cxl and limited appli-
cation, but not, on that ancrun*, the has obligstcrt ; I
allude to the trust committed to Cone', se as the is-
elusive lesialat r and sole guardian if the interests
the District of Columhis. I bet t 3 coiamend these iii:ereses
to your kind attention. As the cstional m-troeolis. des
city of Washington must be as, object of general iu.ereet;
and, founded es it was under the auspices of him whose ins.
mortal tame it bran, its claims to inn teetering csr C a.
grese present themselves with additional etrengtb. What
ever can contribute to its prosperity must enlist the feefiege
of i's constitutional guardian, and command their faring-
able consideration.

Our government is one of limited powers, and its 111611.111.
ful adtaihicration emtnen7:j el- pen& on the onstinanrl4 of
ouch of its co ordinate branches with its urn
sphere. Tre • ret section of the Catritution ordains
that " all legislative powers therein plated shall be
vested in a emigres of the United States, which .tall
cow,ist of a Seams and House of larierestnie.hes,"
Tho exseutire has authoti's to r.tommend I, 44
to dictate) measures to Coneres.. Hang peal ra eat
th. 3 duty, the executive department of the surer.. a.. as
cannot rightfully control the d•eis.un of Cone etc on „gy
subject of legislation, until that deci,ltn shall have ts. ea
ufficislly submitted to the presilene for appr ,v .1. Ta.
che. k provided by the Cocr.tivion, in the el _us: corer,. eg
the qua del veto, will Lever be ex•reistel by toe, estop;
is the cares cuLtewislived the father. of .he Tirade'.
I view it as. an extreme measure, to be r- sort,: to only
in extra:reining Clllllll—ma where it may become time
mry to defend the Executive agaituit the euort.schmealla
of the legislative power, or to prevent hasty cal
inconsiderate (4 unoonstitutional legislation. By citations.-
), cotioing this retool within the spher• pros Mad
to it in the cotemporater:s exposittor of the t.amcas
of the constitui .ii, the will of the peop'e, I••gitimatcly ea-
pressed on all subjects of legislatien, through th.ir
ducal organs, the senators and rept...sestina's of the Ca.tue
States, will have its full eSeet. As indispeue .b'e to Cl a km-
servation of our system of sect-govercars.t, the Ledo. r.derhisit
of the representatives of the Steles and the people is gusse►
teed by the consti.utton ; sal they owe nu r.rpoueh
to et y horners pone, but their Ctlelititar:ts. By huk4
in,t the Reprecentative rem...am:tie only to tnu pc. re, eM
exempting hint fr m all other f, flamee-, we e erg e the cha-
racter of the eonstitaent and quick. a fen, of re.;elistbs-
lity to his country. It is under three ar. west tic.. one
that the elector can feel that, in the et.efee of .he 1.. w mehge
he is Wooed( truly a component tof tor.re
power of the nation. With tqual case wo should au
to del. rid the righ,• of the executive and judicial pea.
men', Our government cut rely be preserv..l
purity by the 6urprooks sad entire clinins:Ai m ut every
elaini or tendency of oar co oiliest. branch to 'itemiser
mint upon soothir.—With the strict observanoi of this tub