The Sun.
London, England, 1844-12-30 00:00:00

THE ScN, uJYNDON, MONDAY EVENiENG, DECEMBER SO, 18.44

IM PO RTA NT N EWS
FROM THE

The great experiment of a political confederacy—each
member of which is supreme as to all matters apper-
taining to its local interests, and its internal peace and
happiness—while by a voluntary compact with others,
it confides to the united power of all the protection of
its citizens, in matters not domestic, has been so far
crowned with complete success. The world has wit-
nessed its rapid growth in wealth and population ; and,
under the guide and direction of superintending Provi-
dence, the developments of the past may be regarded
but as the shadowing forth bf the mighty future. In
the bright prospects of that future we shall find, as pa-
triots and philosophers, the highest inducements to cul-
tivate and cherish a love of union, and to frown every
measure of effort which may be made to alienate the
States, or the people of the States, in sentiment and
feeling, from each other. A rigid and close adherence
to the terms of our political compact, and, above all, a
sacred observance of the guarantees of the Constitution,
will preserve union on a foundation which cannot be
shaken, while personal liberty is placed beyond hazard
or jeopardy.
The guarantee of religious freedom, of the freedom of
the pre-s, of the liberty of speech, of the trial by jury,
of the habeas corpus, and of the domestic institutions of
each of the States--eleaving the private citizen in the full
exercise of the high and ennobling attributes of his na-
ture, and to each State the privilege which can only be
judiciously exerted by itself, of consulting the means
best calculated to advance its own happiness ; those are
the great and important guarantees of the Constitution,
which the lovers of liberty must cherish and the advo-
cates of the union must ever cultivate. Preserving these,
and avoiding all interpolations by forced construction,
under the guise of an imagined expediency, upon the
Constitution, the influence of our political system is des-
tined to be as actively and as beneficially felt on the dis-
tant shores of the Pacific as it is now on those of the
Atlantic Ocean. The only formidable impediments in
the way of its successful expansion (time and space)
are so far in the progress of modification, by the im-
provements of the age, as to render no longer specula-
tive the ability of representatives from that remote re-
gion to come up to the capitol, so that their consti.
tuents shall participate in all the benefits of federal
legislation. Thus it is that in the progress of
time, the inestimable princip'es of civil liberty
will be enjoyed by millions yet unborn, and the
great benefits of our system of Government be ex-
tended to now distant and uninhabited regions. In
view of the vast wilderness yet to be reclaimed, we may
well invite the lover of freedom, of every land, to take
up his abode among us, and to assist us in the great
work of advancing the standard of civilisation, and
giving a wider spread to the arts and refinements of cul-
tivated life. Our prayers should evermore be offered up
to the Father of the Universe fur his wisdom to direct
us in the path of our duty, so as to enable us to consum-
mate these high purposes.
One of the strongest objections which has been
urged against confederacies, by writers on Government,
is the liability of the members to be tampered with by
foreign Governments, or the people of foreign States,
either in their local affairs, or in such as affected the
peace of others, or endangered the safety of the whole
confederacy. We cannot hope to be entirely exempt
from such attempts:on our peace and safety. The United
States are becoming too important in population and re-
sources not to attract the observation of other nations.
It therefore may, in the progress of time, occur that
opinions entirely abstract in the States in which they
may prevail, and in no degree affecting their domestic
institutions, may be artfully, but secretly, encouraged,
with a view to undermine the Union. Such opinions
may become the foundations of political parties, until at
last the conflict of opinion, producing an alienation of
friendly feeling among the people of the different States,
may involve in one general destruction the happy insti-
tutions under which we live. It should ever be borne in
mind, that what is true in regard to individuals, is
equally so in regard to States. An interference of one
in the affairs of another is the fruitful source of family
dissensions and neighbourhood disputes ; and the same
cause affects the peace, happiness, and prosperity of
States. It may be most devoutly hoped that the good
sense of the American people will ever be ready to repel
all such attempts, should they ever be made.
There has been no material change in our foreign re-
lations since my last annual Message to Congress.
With all the powers of Europe we continue on the most
friendly terms. Indeed, it affords me much satisfaction
to state, that at no former period has the peace of that
enlightened and important quarter of the globe ever been,
apparently, more firmly established. The conviction that
peace is the true policy of nations would' seem to be
growing and becoming deeper among the enlightened
everywhere ; and there is no people who have a stronger
interest in cherishing the sentiments, and adopting the
means of preserving and giving it permanence, than
those of the United States. Amongst these, the first
and most effective are, uo doubt, the strict observance of
justice, and the honest and punctual fulfilment of all
engagements. But it is not to be forgotten that, in the
present state of the world, it is no less necessary to be
ready to enforce their observance and fulfilment, in re-
ference to ourselves, than to observe and fulfil them, on
our part, in regard to others.
Since the close of your last session, a negotiation has
been formally entered upon between the Secretary of
State and her Britannic Majesty's Minister Plenipoten-
tiary and Envoy Extraordinary residing at Washington,
relative to the rights of their respective nations in and
over the Oregon territory. That negotiation is still
pending. Should it, during your session, be brought to
a definite conclusion, the result will be promptly com-
municated to Congress. I would, however, call your
attention again to the recommendation contained in pre-
vious messages, designed to protect and facilitate emi-
gration to that territory. The establishment of military
posts at suitable points upon the extended line of land
travel, would enable our citizens to migrate in compara-
tive sat' ty to the fertile regions below the falls of the Co-
lumbia, and make the provision of the existing convention
for the joint occupation of the territory by subjects of Great
Britain and the citizens of the United States, more avail-
able than heretofore to the latter. These pasts would
continue places of rest for the weary emigrant, where he
would be sheltered securely against the danger of attack
from the Indians, and be enabled to recover from the
exhaustion of a long line of travel Legislative enact-
ments should also be made which should spread over him
the tegis of our laws, so as to afford protection to his
person and property when he shall have reached his dis-
tant home. In this latter respect, the British Govern-
ment has been much more careful of the interests of such
of her people as are to be found in that country than the
United States. She has made necessary provision for
their security and protection against the acts of the
viciously disposed and lawless ; and her emigrant re-
poses in safety under the panoply of her laws. What-
ever may be the result of the pending negotiation, such
measures are necessary. It will afford me the greatest
pleasure to witness a happy and favourable termination
to the existing negotiation, upon terms compatible with
the public honour ; and the best efforts of the Govern-
ment will continue to be directed to this end.
It would give me the highest gratification in this my
last annual communication to Congress, to have been
able to announce to you the complete and entire settle-
ment and adjustment of other matters in difference be-
tween the United States and the Government of her
Britannic Majesty, which were adverted to in a previous
message. It is so obviously the interest of both coun-
tries, in respect to the large and valuable commerce
which exists between them, that all causes of complaint,
however inconsiderable, should be, with the greatest
promptitude, removed, that it must be regarded as cause
of regret that any unnecessary delays should be per-
mitted to intervene. It is true, that, in a pecuniary point
of view, the matters alluded to are altogether insigni-
ficant in amount, when compared with the ample re-
sources of that great nation ; but they, nevertheless—
more particularly that limited class which arise under
seizures and detentions of American ships on the coast of
Africa, upon the mistaken supposition indulged in at the
time the wrong was committed, of their being engaged
in the slave trade—deeply affect the sensibilities of this
Government and people. Great Britain having recog-
nised her responsibility to repair all such wrongs, by her
action in other cases, leaves nothing to be regretted upon
this subject, as to all cases prior to the treaty of Wash-
ington, than the delay in making suitable reparation in
such of them as fall plainly within the principle of others,
which she has long since adjusted. The injury inflicted
by delays in the settlement of these claims falls with
severity upon the individual claimants, and makes a
strong appeal to her magnanimity and" sense of justice
for a speedy settlement. Other matters, arising out of
the construction of existing treaties, also remain unad-
justed, and will continue to be urged upon her attention.
The labours of the joint committee appointed by the
two Governments to run the dividing line, established by
the treaty of Washington, were, unfortunately, much
delayed in the commencement of the season, by the
failure of Congress at the last session, to make a timely
appropriation
of funds to meet the expenses of the Ame-
rican party, and by other causes. The United States
Commissioner, however, expresses his expectation that,
by increased diligence and energy, the party will be able
to make up for lost time.
We continue to receiveassurances of the most friendly
feelings on the part of all the other European powers,
with each and all of whom it is so obviously our interest
to cultivate the most amicable relations. Nor can I an-
ticipate the occurrence of any event which would be
likely in any degree to disturb those relations. Russia,
the great northern power, under the judicious sway of
her Emperor, is constantly advancing in the road of
science and improvement ; while France, guided by the
councils of her wise sovereign, pursues a course calcu-
lated to consolidate the general peace. Spain has ob-
tained a breathing spell of some duration from the in-
ternal convulsions which have, through so many years,
marred her prosperity ; while Austria, the Netherlands,
Prussia, Belgium, and the other powers of Europe, reap
a rich harvest of blessings from the prevailing peace.
I informed the two Houses of Congress, in my
message of December last, that instructions bad been
given to Mr. Wheaton, our Minister at Berlin, to nego-
tiate a treaty with the Germanic States composing the
Zollverein, if it could be done, stipulating, as far as it
was practicable to accomplish it, for a reduction of the
heavy and onerous duties levied on our tobacco, and
other leading articles of agricultural production ; and
yielding in return, on our part, a reduction of duties on
such articles, the production of their industry, as should
not come into competition, or but a limited one, with
articles the product of our manufacturing industry.
The Executive, in giving such instructions, con-
sidered itself as acting in strict conformity with the
wishes of Congress, as made known through several mea-
sures which it had adopted, all directed to the accom-
plishment of this important result. The treaty was,
therefore, negotiated • by which essential reductions
were secured in the duties levied by the Zollverein on
tobacco, rice and lard, accompanied by a stipulation for
the admission of raw cotton, free of duty. In exchange
for which highly important concessions, a reduction of
duties, imposed by the laws of the United States on a
ariety of articles, most of which were admitted free of

UNITED STATES,
MEXICO,
AND CANADA.

ARRIVAL OF THE CALEDONIA.
LIVERPOOL, SUNDAY EVENING.
The British and North American Royal mail
steam-ship Caledonia, Capt. Lott, arrived in Bootle-
bay at four o'clock this afternoon, bringing 32 pas-
sengers. She left Boston and Halifax on the usual
days, the 16th and 18th instant, and made the run for
the former port in 13 days, having encountered wes-
terly winds throughout the passage.
The Caledonia, shortly after she left Halifax, spoke
the Acadia.
The dates of the advices by this arrival are—New
York, 15th ; Washington, 13th ; and Boston and
Halifax, 16th and 18th inst. The intelligence they
communicate is very important, comprising the Pre-
sident's annual Message, and the Speech of Sir Charles
Metcalfe on the opening of the CanadianYarliament,
with other exceedingly interesting matter.
The Electoral College had unanimously confirmed
the late Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections.
Congress met on Monday, the 2d inst., and the Pre-
sident's message, which we annex, was delivered on
the following day. The anterior proceedings of
Congress are interesting. In the Senate, on the 3d,
Mr. M‘Dufie introduced a joint resolution for the
annexation of Texas to the United States. The re-
solution provides that the first eight articles of the
treaty rejected by the Senate last session shall be
the fundamental law of union between the United

States and Texas, so soon as the supreme authorities
of that Republic shall agree to the same; and, also,
that whatever was stipulated to be done immediately,
or at a fixed period after the ratification of the
treaty compact, shall be done immediately, or in a
like period after the authorities of Texas shall have
formally agreed to the resolution. It was referred
to the Committee on Foreign Relations. A similar
joint resolution was also reported in the House.
On the following day Mr. Benton introduced his
Bill of last session, providing for the "re-annexation
of Texas;" and this was also referred to the Com-
mittee on Foreign Relations. On the same day, a
resolution, introduced by Mr. Allen, calling upon
the President of the United States for information

concerning the state of the negotiations pending on
the Oregon questions was, after some oppposition,
adopted by a vote of 24 to 16. Another resolution,
calling upon the President, if not incompatible with
the public interest, for copies of all correspondence
between France and the American Minister at Paris,
relative to the proposed annexation, was adopted.
A Bill to establish a uniform line for the election of
electors of President was under consideration.

Outbreaks of the most serious character had certainly
occurred in different states of Mexico. Nearly one-
half of the Mexican army had revolted, and declared
against Santa Anna, if the reports brought by these
vessels are correct. The Government were put to the
greatest trouble to obtain money to prosecute the
war against Texas, and every thing was at odds and
ends. Congress bad voted unanimously an approval
of Senor Rejon's correspondence with Mr. Shannon
and it was thought that Sant.► Anna, through the
impending war, might be able, by obtaining command
of the purse, ti keep possession ,►f the rword of State.
The British Minister is said to be in favour of such
a result. Meantime, General Paredes has placed
himself at the head of a revolt, and has publicly de-
nounced Santa Anna, complaining of the disorgani-
zation of the army, the abuses of the. Traasury de-
partment, the disorder existi"g in the public offices,
alleged breaches of law aid violations of right on the
part of the Dictator, and the invasion of Texas, not
on the score of right on the part of the Texians, but
on that of the mismanagement of the proceedings
against that province.

We give here an extract from the money article of
the New York American, of the 14th inst. :

" The meeting of Congress, and the development con-
sequent thereon of our political relations with foreign
countries, exercise naturally considerable influence upon
the money market.
" The effect thus far has been unfavourable, owing to
the embroiled state of our relations with Mexico, and
the very extraordinary dispatch from the State Depart-
ment to our Minister in France, a dispatch of which the
country will be loth to accept the responsibility ur endorse
the sentiments.

" There is, however, no change of any moment in the
price of the dividend-paying stocks since our last ; but
the market generally is feverish, and so is the state of the
public mind. _ _

" The assurance may, nevertheless, be hazarded,
without much risk, that no important measure will be
carried through the present Congress. There will be no
war—no annexation of Texas—no modification of the
tariff—no occupation of Oregon—no establishment of
military posts to the Rocky Mountains and the Columbia
river, and no other essential or material legislation.
" Thus much it would be safe to assume from the, it
is believed, unvarying fact that at the short session (and
this must terminate on the 4th of March) no important
Acts are ever matured and passed.

" But in addition to this, there is that in the present
condition of parties which renders the adoption of any
great change in the position, or in the policy of the coun-
try, extremely improbable. It seems, therefore, quite
safe to say, that until the 4th of March next, when the
newly-elected President will take the reins, things will
remain in statu quo.
" Into the futare, after that, it were useless now to at-
tempt any insight.
_ _

"Money is easy, notwithstanding a very large diminu-
tion of discounts by the banks of this city within the
last sixty days, equal, probably, to $2,500,000. The
fact of such a diminution being insensibly effected, and
without any shock to the business or obvious influence
on the stock market, would seem to prove the strength
and stability both of the banks and the general business
transactions.

" Exchange on England rules at from 10 to 10 14. At
this rate gold cannot be exported, and most of the silver
has gone."

THE MESSAGE

TO THE

SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
OF THE UNITED STATES.

We have continued cause for expressing our gratitude
to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for the benefits
and blessings which our country, under his kind Provi-
dence, has enjoyed during the past year. Notwith-
standing the exciting scenes through which we have
passed, nothing has occurred to disturb the general
peace, or to derange the harmony of our political sys-
tem. The great moral spectacle has been exhibited of
a nation, approximating in number to 20,000,000 of
people, having performed the high and important
function of electing their Chief Magistrate for the term
of four years, without the commission of any acts of
violence, or the manifestation of a spirit of insubordina-

tion to to the laws. The great and inestimable right of
suffrage has been exercised by all who were invested
with it under the laws of the different States, in a spirit
dictated alone by a desire, in the selection of the agent,
to advance the interests of the country, and to place be-
yond jeopardy the institutions under which it is our
happiness to live. That the deepest interest has been
manifested by our countrymen in the result of the elec-
tion is not less true than highly creditable to them.
Vast multitudes have assembled from time to time, at
various places, for the purpose of canvassing the merits
and pretensions of those who were presented
for their suffrages ; but no armed soldiery has
been necessary to restrain, within proper limits, the
popular zeal, or to prevent violent outbreaks. A
principle much more controlling was found in
the love of order and obedience to the laws which,
with mere individual exceptions, every where possesses
the American mind, and controls with an influence far
more powerful than hosts of armed men. We cannot
dwell upon this picture without recognising in it that
deep and devoted attachment on the part of the people
to tie institutions under which we live, which proclaims
their perpetuity. The great objection which has always
prevailed against the election, by the people, of their
Chief Executive officer, has been the apprehension of
tumults and disorders, which might involve in ruin the
entire Government.

A security against this is found, not only in the fact
before alluded to, but ;1 e additional fact that we live
under a confederacy ex racing already twenty-six
States ; no one of whidi has the power to control the
election. The popular vote in each State is taken at the
time appointed by the laws, and such vote is announced
by the Electoral College, without reference to the deci-
sions of other States. The right of suffrage, and the
mode of conducting the election, is regulated by the
laws of each State ; and the election is distinctly fede-
rative in all its prominent features. Thus it is that, un-
like what might be the results under a consolidated
system, riotous proceedings, should they prevail, could
only affect the election in single States, without disturb-
ing, to any dangerous extent, the tranquillity of others.

all duty under the act of Congress, commonly known
the Compromise law, and but few of which were pro.
duced in the United States, was stipulated for on ow
part. This treaty was communicated to the Senate' ai
an early day of its last session, but not acted upon till
near its close ; when, for the want, as lam bound tc
presume, of full time to consider it, it was laid upon the
table. This prccedure had the effect of virtually re•
j. eting it, in consequence of a stipulation contained in
the treaty, that its ratifications should be exchanged on
or before a day which has already passed. The Execu-
tive, acting upon the fair inference that the Senate did
not intend its absolute rejection, gave instructions to
our Minister at Berlin to re. open the negotiation, so far
as to obtain an extension of time for the exchange of
ratifications. I regret, however, to say that his efforts
in this respect have been unsuccessful. I am, neverthe-
less, not without hope that the great advantages which
were intended to be secured by the treaty may yet be
realised.
lam happy to inform you that Belgium has, by as
arriite Royal," issued is July last, assimilated the flag
of the United States to her own, so far as the direct trade
betty cen the two countries is concerned. This measure
will prove of great service to our shipping interest ; the
trade having heretofore been carried on chiefly in fo-
reign bottoms. I flatter myself that she will speedily
resort to a modification of her system relating to the
tobacco trade, which would decidedly benefit the agri-
culture of the United States, and operate to the mutual
advantage of both countries.
No definitive intelligence has yet been received from
our Minister of the conclusion of a treaty with the
Chinese empire ; but enough is known to induce the
strongest hopes that the mission will be crowned with
success.
With Brazil our relations continue on the most
friendly footing. The commercial intercourse between
that growing empire and the United States is becoming
daily of greater importance to both ; and it is the inte-
rest of both that the firmest relations of amity and good
will should continue to be cultivated between them.
The Republic of New Grenada still withholds, not-
withstanding the most persevering efforts have been em-
ployed by our Chargé d'Affaires, Mr. Blackford, to pro-
duce a different result, indemnity in the case of the brig
Morris. And the Congress of Venezuela, although an
arrangement has been effected between cur Minister and
the Minister of Foreign Affa.rs of that Government, for
the payment of 18,000 dollars in discharge of its liabili-
ties in the same case, has altogether neglected to make
provision for its payment. It is to be hoped that a sense
of justice will soon induce a settlement of these claims.
Our late Minister to Chili, Mr. Pendleton, has returned
to the United States without having effected an adjust-
ment in the second claim of the Macedonian, which is
delayed on grounds altogether frivolous and untenable.
Mr. Pendleton's successor has been directed to urge the
claim in the strongest terms • and in the event of a failure
to obtain a permanent adjustment, to report the fact
to the Executive at as early a day as possible, se that the
whole matter may be communicated to Congress.
At your last session, I submitted to the attention of
Congress the Convention with the Republic or Peru, of
the 17th of March, 1841, providing for the adjustment
of the claims of the citizens of the United States against
that Republic ; but no definitive action was taken upon
the subject. I again invite it to your attention and prompt
action.

In my last annual message I felt it to be my duty to
make known to Congress, in terms both plain and em-
phatic, my opinion in regard to the war which has so
long existed between Mexico and Texas ; which, since
the battle of San Jacinto, has consisted altogether of
predatory incursions, attended by circumstances revolt-
ing to humanity. I repeat now what I then said, that
after eight years of feeble and ineffectual efforts to
recover Texas, it was time that the war should have
ceased. The United States had a direct interest in the
question. The contiguity of the two nations to our ter-
ritory was but too well calculated to involve our peace.
Unjust suspicions were engendered in the mind of one or
the other of the belligerents against us ; and, as a neces-
sary consequence, American interests were made to
suffer, and our peace became daily endangered. In ad-
dition to which, it must have been obvious to all that the
exhaustion produced by the war subjected both Mexico
and Texas to the interference of other Powers, which,
without the interposition of this Government, might
eventuate in the most serious injury to the United
States. The Government from time to time exerted its
friendly offices to bring about a termination of hostilities
upon terms honourable alike to both the belligerents—
its efforts in this behalf proved unavailing. Mexico
seemed, almost without an object, to persevere in the
war, and no other alternative was left the Executive, but
to take advantage of the well-known dispositions of
Texas, and to invite her to enter into a:treaty for annex-
ing her territory to that of the United States.
:Since your last session Mexico has threatened to
renew the war, and has either made, or proposes to make,
formidable preparations for Texas. She has issued de-
crees and proclamations,;preparatory to the commence-
ment of hostilities, full of threats revolting to humanity,
and which, if carried into effect, would arouse the at-
tention of all Christendom. This new demonstration
of feeling, there is too much reason to believe, has
been produced in consequence of the negotiation of
the late treaty of annexation with Texas. The
Executive, therefore, could not be indifferent to such
proceedings, and it felt it to be due, as well to itself as to
the honour of the country, that a strong representation
should be made to the Mexican Government upon the
subject. This was accordingly done, as will be seen by
the copy of the accompanying dispatch from the Secre-
tary of State to the United States Envoy at Mexico.
Mexico has no right to jeopardise the peaee of the world
by urging any longer a useless and fruitless contest. Such
a condition of things would not be tolerated on the Eu-
ropean continent. Why should it be on this ? A war of
desolation, such as is now threatened by Mexico, cannot
be waged without involving our peace and tranquillity.
It is idle to believe that such a war could be looked upon
with indifference by our own citizens, inhabiting adjoin-
ing States ; and our neutrality would be violated in spite
of all efforts on the part of the Government to prevent it.
The country is settled by emigrants from the United
States, under invitations held out to them by Spain and
Mexico. Those emigrants have left behind them friends
and relatives who would not fail to sympathise with
them in their difficulties, and who would be led by those
sympathies to participate in their struggles, however
energetic the action of Government to prevent it. Nor
would the numerous and forminable bands of Indians,
the most warlike to be found in any land, which occupy
the extensive regions contiguous to the states of Arkansas
and Missouri, and who are in possession of large tracts
of country within the limits of Texas, be likely to re-
main passive. The inclination of these numerous tribes
lead them invariably to war whenever pretexts exist.
Mexico had no just ground of displeasure against this
Government or people for negotiating the treaty. What
interest of hers was affected by the treaty ? She was
despoiled of nothing, since Texas was for ever lost to her.
The independence of Texas was recognised by several of
the leading Powers of the earth. She was free to treat—
free to adopt her own line of policy—free to take the
Course which she believed was best calculated to secure
her happiness. Her Government and people decided on
annexation to the United States ; and the Executive
saw, in the acquisition of such a territory, the means of
advancing their permanent happiness and glory. What
principle of good faith then was violated ?—what rule of
political morals trampled under foot? So far as Mexico
herself was concerned, the measure should have been re-

garded by her as highly beneficial. Her inability to re-
conquer Texas has been exhibited, I repeat, by eight—
now nine—years of fruitless and ruinous contest. In the
mean time Texas has been growing in population and
resources. Emigration has flowed into her territory
from all parts of the world, in a current which continues
to increase in strength. Mexico requires a permanent
boundary between that young republic and herself.
Texas, at no distant day, if she continues separate aid
detached from the United States, will inevitably seek to
consolidate her strength by adding to her domain in the
contiguous provinces of Mexico. The spirit of revolt
from the control of the Central Government has, there-
_ .

fore, manifested itself in some of those provinces ; and it
is fair to infer that they would be inclined to take the
first favourable opportunity to proclaim their inde-
pendence,and to form close alliances with Texas. The

War would thus be endless, or, if cessations of hostilities
should occur, they would only endure for a season.
The interests of Mexico, therefore, could in nothing
be better consulted than in a peace with her neighbours,
which would result in the establishment of a permanent
boundary. Upon the ratification of the treaty, the Exe-
cutive was prepared to treat with her on the most liberal
basis. Hence the boundaries of Texas were left nu-
.

defined by the treaty. The Executive proposed to settle
these upon terms that all the world should have pro-
nounced just and reasonable. No negotiation upon that
point could have been undertaken between the United

EStates and Mexico in advance of the ratification

of the treaty. We should have had no
power—no authority, to have conducted such a
negotiation ; and to have undertaken it would have

been an assumption equally revolting to the
pride of Mexico and Texas, and subjecting us
to the charge of arrogance ; while to have proposed,
in advance of annexation, to satisfy Mexico for
any contingent interest she might have in Texas would
have been to have treated Texas, not as an independent
power, but as a mere dependency of Mexico. This as-
sumption could not have been acted on by the Executive,
without setting at defiance your own solemn declaration
that the Republic was an independent State. Mexico
had, it is true, threatened war against the United States
in the event the treaty of annexation was ratified. The
Executive could not permit itself to be influenced by
this threat. It represented in this the spirit of our
people, who are ready to sacrifice much for peace, but
nothing to intimidation. A war, under any circum-
stances, is greatly to be deplered, and the United States
is the last nation to desire it ; but if, as the condition of
peace, it be required of us to forego the unquestionable
right of treating with an independent power, of our own
continent, upon matters highly interesting to both, and
that upon a naked and unsustained pretension of claim
by a third power, to control the free will of the power
with whom we treat—devoted as we may be to peace,
and anxious to cultivate friendly relations with the whole
world, the Executive does not hesitate to say that the
people of the United States would be willing to brave all
consequences sooner than submit to such conditions.
But no apprehension of war was entertained by the Ex-
ecutive ; and I must frankly confess the opinion, that
had the treaty been ratified by the Senate, it would have
been followed by a prompt settlement, to the entire satis-
faction of Mexico, of every matter in difference between
the two countries. Seeing, then, that new preparations
for hostile invasion of Texas were about to be adopted by
Mexico, and that these were brought about because
Texas had adopted the suggestion of the Executive upon
the subject of annexation, it could not passively have
folded its arms and permitted a war, threatened to be

accompanied by every- act that could mark a barbarous
age, to be waged against her, because she had done so.
Other considerations of a controlling character in-
fluenced the course of the Executive. The treaty which
had thus been negotiated had failed to receive the rati-

fication of the Senate. One of' the chief objections whicf' surplus greatly exceeds in amount what shall be re-
the Legislature itself may come to
e were urged agaeest it was found to exist in the fact that quired by, a wise and prudent forecast to meet unfore-
ir the queseo: of annexetion had not been submitted to the seen con tingenci, s,
it ordeal public opinion in the United State& I:weever be seized with a disposition to indulge in extravagant-
probably would, be found to conflict with the
II untenable such an oljection was esteemed to be, io view t appropriadons to objects, many of which may, and
,onatitution. A fancy expediency is elevated abeam
0 of the unquestionable power of the Executive to etgo- t I ri°B-t
Tstittitional authority ; and a reckless and waste-
e tiate the treaty, and the great and lasting interests in- It•
volved in tee question, I felt it to be my duty to submit tk
trTtnt power of taxation, which, when exercised in
restricted. form, is a burden on labour and n the whole subject to Congress as the best expounders of fin extravagance but too certainly follows. The
a popular sentiment. No definite action having been ant\
is resorted to, under various pretexts, for pur-
e taken on the subject by Congress, the question referred its ro, 'is
sing no affinity to the motives which dictated its
pro-
I itself directly to the decision of the States and the people. ductio. a
the extravagance of Government stimulates
J The greet popular election which has just terminated, poses ba.
r afforded the best opportunity of ascertaining the will of grant, ante
f the States and people upon it. Pending that issue, it •individual' tee xtravegance, until the spirit of a wildand ill-
s became the imperative duty of the Executive to inform :regulated speculation involves one and all in its unfor-
- I Mexico that the question of annexation was still before tunate results. .In view of such fatal consequences, it
i ! the American people, and that, until their decision was , Ana), be laid dowrs as an axiom, founded in moral and
pronounced, any serious invasion of Texas would be re- i 'political truth, that el.° greater taxes should be imposed
garded as an attempt to forestall their judgment, and than are necessary foe an economical administration otT
i i could not be looked upon with indifference. lam most the Government ; and that whatever exists beyond,
happy to inform you that no such invasion al taken should be reduced or modified. This doctrine does in no
, 1
place, and I trust that, whatever your action may be s way conflict with the exercise of a sound discrimination
{ upon it, Mexico will see the importance of deciding the I in. the selection of the articles to be taxed, which a due
1 matter by a resort to peaceful expedients in preference to regard to the public weal would at all times suggest to
i
those of arms. The decision of the people and the States tite k gislative mind. It leaves the range of selection tin-
' on this great and interesting subject has been decisively defin un ; and such selection should always be made with
manifested. The question of annexation has been pre- an eye. to the great interests of the country. Composed
sented nakedly to their consideration. By the treaty itself as is the, Union, of separate and independent States, a
all collateral and incidental issues, which were calculated patriotic Legislature will not fail in consulting the in-
to divide and distract the public councils, were carefully terests of the parts, to adopt such course as will be best
avoided. These were left to the wisdom of the future calculatcel to advance the harmony of the whole ; and
to determine. It presented, I repeat, the isolated question thus insure that permanency in the policy of the Govern-
of annexation; and in that form it has been submitted went without which all efforts to advance the public
to the ordeal of public sentiment. A controlling majority prosperity are yain and fruitless. This great and vitally
of the people, and a large majority of the States, have important task rests with Congress ; and the Executive
declared in favour of immediate annexation. Instruc- can do no more theft recommend the general principles
tions have thus come up to both branches of Congress, which should govern itt. its execution.
from their respective constituents, in terms the most I refer you to the reposa of the Secretary of War, fur
emphatic. It is the will of both the people and the an exhibition of the conditioa of the army ; and recom-
states that Texas shall be annexed to the Union promptly mend to you, as well worthy y par best consideration,.
and immediately. It may be hoped that, in carrying many of the suggestions it contains. The Secretary in
into execution the public will, thus declared, all collateral no degree exaggerates the great impo:tance of pressing
issues may be avoided. Future Legislatures can best forward, without delay, in the work Of erecting and
decide as to the number of states which should be formed finishing the fortifications, to which he particularly
out of the territory, when the time has arrived for de- alludes. Much has been done towards placing our
tiding that question. So with all others. By the cities and roadsteads in a state of security against the
treaty, the United States assumed the payment of the hazards of hostile attack within the last four years ; but
debts of Texas, to an amount not exceeding 10,000,000 considering the new elements which have been of late
dollars, to be paid, with the exception of a sum falling years employed in the propelling of ships, and the for-
short of 400,000 dollars, exclusively out of the proceeds midable implements of destruction which have been
of the sales of her public lands. We could not, with brought into service, we cannot be too active or vigilant
honour, take the lands, without assuming the full pay- in preparing and perfecting the means 01 defence. I
ment of all incumbrances upon them. refer you also to his report for a full stateeetent of the
' Nothing has occurred since your last session to in- condition of the Indian tribes within our jur:sdiction.
duce a doubt that the disposition of Texas remains un- The Executive has abated no effort in carryines; into
altered. No intimation of an altered determination on effect the well-established policy of the Government,
the part of her Government and people, has been fur- which contemplates a removal of all the tribes resiu'ing
n'shed to the Executive. She still desires to throw her- 1 within the limits of the several States beyond tho 50
self under the protection of our laws, and to partake of limits e and it is now enabled to congratulate the country
the blessings of our federative system, while every at the prospect of an early consummation of this objleeta
American interest would seem to require it. The ex- Many of the tribes have already made great progress ini
tension of our coastwise and foreign trade, to an amount the arts of civilised life ; and threugh the operation of
almost incalculable—the enlargement of the market for the scaools established amongst them, aided by the
our manufactures—a constantly growing market fur our efforts of the pious men of various religious denomina-
agricultural productions—safety to our frontiers, and tions who devote themselves to the task of their improve-
additional strength and stability to the Union— these meat, we may fondly hope that the remains of the for-
are the results which would rapidly develope themselves midable tribes which were once the masters of this
upon the consummation of the measure of annexation. country will, in their transition from the savage state to
In such event, I will not doubt but that Mexico would a condition of refinement and cultivation, add another
find her true interest to consist in meeting the advances bright trophy to adorn the labours of a well-directed
of this Government in a spirit of amity. philanthropy.
Nor do I apprehend any serious complaint from any The accompanying report of the Secretary of the
other quarter ; no sufficient ground exists for such corn- Navy will explain to you the situation of that branch of
plaint. We should interfere in no respect with the the service. The present organisation of the depart-
rights of any other nation. There cannot be gathered meat imparts to its operations great efficiency ; but I
from the act any other design on our part to do so with concur fully in the propriety of a division of the Bdreau
their possessions on this continent. We have interposed of Construction, Equipment, and Repairs, into two
no impediments in the way of such acquisitions of ter- Bureaux. The subjects, as now arranged, are incongru-
ritory, large and extensive as many of them are, as the ous, and require to a certain extent information and qua-
leading powers of Europe have made, from time to time, lifications altogether dissimilar.
in every part of the world. We seek no conquest made The operations of the squadron on the coast of Africa
by war. No intrigue will have been resorted to, or acts have been conducted with all due attention to the object
of diplomacy essayed, to accomplish the annexation of which led to its organisation ; and I am happy to say
Texas. Free and independent herself, she asks to be re- that the officers and crews have enjoyed the best possible
ceived into our Union. It is a question for our own de- health, under the system adopted by the officer in corn-
cision whether she shall be received or not. mend. It is believed the United States is the only .na-
The two Governments having already agreed through tion which has, by its laws, subjected to the punishment
their respective organs on the terms of annexation, I of death, as pirates, those who may be engaged in
would recommend their adoption by Congress in the the slave trade. A similar enactment on the part of
form of a joint resolution, or act, to be made binding on other nations would not fail to be attended by beneficial
the two countries, when adopted in like manner by the results.
Government of Texas. In consequence of the difficulties which have existed
In order that the subject may be fully presented in in the way of securing titles for the necessary grounds,
all its bearings, the correspondence which has taken operations have not yet been commenced towards the
place in reference to it, since the adjournment of Con- establishment of the Navy Yard at Memphis. So soon
gress, between the United States, Texas, and Mexico, is as the title is perfected, no further delay will be per-
herewith transmitted. mitted to intervene. It is well worthy of your considee
The amendments proposed by the Senate to the con- ration, whether Congress should not direst the esta-
vention concluded between the United States and alexico blishment of a rope-walk, in connection with the con-
on the 20th of November, 1843, have been transmitted templated Navy Yard, as a measure not only of coo-
through our Minister, for the concurrence of the Mexican nomy, but as highly useful and necessary. The only
Government ; but, although urged thereto, no action has establishment of the sort now connected with the service
yet been had on the subject, nor has any answer been is located at Boston ; and the advantages of a similar'
given which would authorise a favourable conclusion in establishment, convenient to the hemp-growing region,
the future. must be apparent to all.
The decree of September, 1843, in relation to the re- The report of the Secretary presents other matters to
tail trade, the order for the expulsion of foreigners, and your consideration of an important character in con-
that of a more recent date in regard to passports—all of nexion with the service.
which are considered as in violation of the treaty of In referring you to the accompanying report of the
amity and commerce between the two countries, have Postmaster-General, it affords me continued gratification
led to a correspondence of considerable length between to be able to advert to the fact that the affairs of the de-
the Minister for Foreign Relations and our leepresenta. pertinent, for the last four years, have been so conducted
tive at Mexico, but without any satisfactory result. as, from its unaided resources, to meet its large expendi-
They remain still unadjusted, and many and serious in- tures. On my coming into office, a debt of nearly 500,000
conveniences have already resulted to our citizens in con- dollars existed against the department, which Congress
sequence of them, discharged by an appropriation from the Treasury. Tine
Questions growing out of the act of disarming a body department, on the 4th of March next, will he found,
of Texian troops under the command of Major Snively, under the management of the present efficient head, free
by an officer in the service of the United States, acting of debt or embarrassment, which could only have been
under the orders of our Goverment; and the forcible done by the observance and practice of the greatest
entry into the Custom-house at Bryarly's Landing, on vigilance and economy. The laws have contemplated
Red River, by certain citizens of the United States, and throughout, that the department should be self sustained;
taking away therefrom the goods seized by the collector but it may become necessary, with the wisest regard to
of the customs, as forfeited under the laws of Texas, public interests, to introduce amendments and alterations
have been adjusted, so far as the powers of the Execu- in the system. There is a strong desire manifested in
tive extend. The correspondence between the two Go- many quarters, so to alter the tariff of letter postage
vernments, in ,reference to both subjects, will be found as to reduce the amount of tax at present imposed.
amongst the accompanying documents. It contains a Should such measures be carried into effect, to the full
full statement of all the facts and circumstances, with extent desired, it cannot well be doubted but that, for
the views taken on both sides, and the principles on the first years of its operation, a diminished re-
which the questions have been adjusted. It remains for venue would be collected, the supply of which would
Congress to wake the necessary appropriation to carry necessarily constitute a charge upon the Treasury.
the arrangement into effect, which I respectfully recom- Whether such a result would be desirable, it will be for
mend. Congress, in its wisdom, to determine. It may in general
The greatly improved condition of the Treasury af- be asserted, that radical alterations in any system should
fords a subject for general congratulation. The para- rather be brought about gradually than by sudden
lysis which had fallen on trade and commerce, and which changes; and by pursuing this prudent policy in the re-
subjected the Government to the necessity of resorting duction of letter postage, the department might still sus-
to loans and the issue of Treasury notes, to a large tain itself through the revenue which would accrue by
amount, has passed away; and after the payment of up- the increase of letters. The state and condition of the
wards of 7,000,000 dollars, on account of the interest, public Treasury has, heretofore, been such as to have
and in redemption of more than 5,000,000 dollars of the precluded the recommendation of any material change.
public debt, which falls due on the Ist of January next, The difficulties upon this head have, however, ceased,
and setting apart upwards of 2,000,000 dollars for the and a large discretion is now left to the Government.
payment of outstanding Treasury notes, and meeting an I cannot too strongly urge the policy of authorising
instalment of the debts of the corporate cities of the dis- the establishment of a line of steam-ships regularly to
drict of Columbia—an estimated surplus of upwards of ply between this country and foreign ports, and upon
7, 000,000 dollars, over and above the existing:appropria. our own waters, for the transportation of the mail. The
tions, will remain in the Treasury at the close of the example of the British Government is well worthy of
fiscal year. Should the Treasury notes continue out- imitation in this respect. The belief is strongly enter-
standing, as heretofore, that surplus will be considerably tanned that the emoluments arising from the transporta-
augmented. Although all interest has ceased upon them don of mail matter to foreign countries, would operate
and the Government has invited their return to the of itself as an inducement to cause individual enterprise
Treasury, yet they remain outstanding, affording great to undertake that branch of the task ; and the remunera-
facilities to commerce and establishing the fact that under don of the Government would consist in the addition
a well-regulated system of finance the Government has readily made to our steam navy, in case of emergency by
resources within itself, which render it independent in the ships so employed. Should this suggestion meet
time of need, not only of private loans, but also of bank your approval, the propriety of placing such ships under
facilities. the command of experienced officers of the navy will not
The only remaining subject of regret is that the re- escape your observation. The application of steam tea
maining stocks of the Government do not fall due at an the purposes of naval warfare cogently recommends ant
earlier day ; since their redemption would be entirely extensive steam marine as important in estimating the•
within its control. As it is, it may be well worthy the defences of the country. Fortunately this may be at-
consideration of Congress, whether the law establishing tanned by us to a great extent without incurring any
the sinking fund—under the operation of which the debts large amount of expenditure. Steam-vessels to be en-
of the Revolution and last war with Great Britain were, gaged in the transportation of the mails on our principal
to a great extent, extinguished—should not, with proper water courses, lakes, and parts of ourteoast, could also be
modfications (so as to prevent an accumulation of sur- so constructed as to be efficient as war vessels when
plusses, and limited in amount to a specific sum), be re- needed ; and would of themselves constitute a formid-
enacted. Such provisions, which would authorise the able force, in order to repel attacks from abroad. We
Government to go into the market for a purchase of its cannot be blind to the fact that other nations have already
own stock, on fair terms, would serve to maintain its cre- added large numbers of steam-ships to their naval arma-
dit at the highest point, and prevent, to a great extent, meats, and this new and powerful agent is destined to re-
those fluctuations in the price of its securities which volutioniso the condition of the world. It becomes the
might, under other circumstances, affect its credit. No United States, therefore, looking to their security, to
apprehension of this sort is at this moment entertained, adopt a similar policy ; and the plan suggested will elle
since the stocks of the Government which but two years able them to do so at a small comparative cost.
ago were offered for sale to capitalists at home and I take the greatest pleasure in bearing testimony to
abroad, at a depreciation, and could find no purchasers, the zeal and untiring industry which has characterised
are now greatly above par in the hands of the holders; the conduct of the members of the Executive Cabinet.
but a wise and prudent forecast admonishes us to place Each, in his appropriate sphere, has rendered me the
beyond the reach of contingency the public credit. most efficient aid in carrying on the Government ; and it
It must also be a matter of unmingled gratification will net, I trust, appear out of place for me to bear this
that, under the existing financial system—resting upon public testimony. The cardinal objects which should
the Act of 1789 and the resolution of 1816—the currency ever be held in view by those entrusted with the admi-
of the country has attained a state of perfect soundness; nistration of public affairs, are rigidly, end without
and the rates of exchange between different parts of the favour or affection, so to interpret the national will, ex-
Union, which in 1841 denoted, by their enormous pressed in the laws, as that injustice should be done to
amount, the great depreciation, and, in fact, worthless. none—justice to all. This has been the rule upon which
ness of the currency in most of the States—are now re. they have acted ; and thus it is believed that few cases
doted to little more than the mere expense of transport- if any, exist, wherein our fellow-citizens, who from time
ing specie from place to place, and the risk incidental to to time have been drawn to the seat of Government for
the operation. In a new country like that of the United the settlement of their transactions with the Govern-
States, where so many inducements are held out for spe- ment, have gone away dissatisfied. Where the testi-
culation, the depositories of the surplus revenue, con• mony has been perfected, and was esteemed satisfactory,
listing of banks of any description, when it reaches any their claims have been promptly audited, and this in the
considerable amount, require the closest vigilance on the absence of all favouritism or partiality. The Govern-
part of the Government. All banking institutions, un- meat which is not just to its own people can
der whatever denomination they may pass, are governed neither claim their affection nor the respect of the
by an almost exclusive regard to the interest of the stock world. At the same time the closest attention has been
holders. That interest consists in the augmentation of paid to those matters which relate more immediately to
profits, in the form of dividends, and a large surplus ro- the great concerns of the country. Order and di-
venue entrusted to their custody, is but too apt to lead ciency in each branch of the public service have
to excessive loans and to extravagantly large issues of prevailed, accompanied by a system of the most rigid re-
paper. As a necessary consequence, prices are nomi- sponsibility on the part of the receiving and disbursing
nally increased, and the speculative mania everywhere agents. The fact, in illustration of the truth of this re-
seizes upon the public mind. mark, deserves to be noticed that the revenues of the
A fictitious state of prosperity for a season exists ; Governmemt, amounting in the last four years to up-
and, in the language of the day, money becomes plenty. wards of 120,000,000 dollars, have been collected and
Contracts are entered into by individuals, resting on this disbursed through the numerous Governmental agents,
unsubstantial state of things, but the delusion speedily without the loss, by default, of any amount worthy of
passes away, and the country is overrun by an in- serious commentary.
debtedness so weighty as to overwhelm many, and to The appropriations made by Congress for the im •
visit every department of industry with great and ruinous provement of the rivers of the west, and of the harbours
embarrassment. The greatest vigilance becomes neces- on the lakes, are in a course of judicious expenditure
sary on the part of the Government to guard against under suitable agents, and are designed, it is to be hoped,
this state of things. The depositors must be given dis- to realise all the benefits designed to be accomplished by
tinctly to understand that the favours of the Govern- Congress. I cannot, however, sufficiently impress upon
ment will be altogether withdrawn, or substanstially di- Congress the great importance of withholding appro..
minished, if its revenues shall be regarded as additions priations from improvements evhich are not ascertained
to their banking capital, or as the foundation of en en- by previous examination and survey to be necessary for
larged circulation. The Government, through its re- the shelter and protection of trade from the dangers of
venue, has, at all times, an important part to perform storms and tempests. Without this precaution, the ex-
in connexion with the currency; and it greatly depends penditures are but too apt to inure to the benefit of din-
upon
its vigilance and care whether the country be in-
ividuals, without reference to the only consideration
volved in embarrassments similar to those which it has which can render them constitutional—the public in-
had recently to encounter ; or, aided by the action of the terests and the general good.
Treasury, shall be preserved in a sound and healthy I cannot too earnestly urge upon you the interest of
condition. this district, over which, by the Constitution, Congress
The dangers to be guarded against are greatly aug- has exclusive jurisdiction. It would be deeply to be
mented by too large a suiplus of revenue. When that regretted should there be, at any time, ground to Tom-