Richmond enquirer. [volume] (Richmond, Va.) 1815-1867, 1823-06-17

and all social generous affections among the
people"
BY recurring 10 these principles which in
their nature and origin are democratic, which
form the basis and true conservative power of
all our constitutions, both state and federal
observing the inIunctions, and chershiDg the
liberal and generous sentiments here inculca-
ted, the several branches ofgovernment will,
with the blessing of Heaven on their endea-
vors, fill their respective circles of duty salts
factoriiy to themselves and acceptahly to their
constituents. The example of wisdom and
moderation exhibited by the distinguished eli
tiZen, who has retired To the walks of private
life, after having filled the chair of state for
the last seven years, in 4 manner which has
added Iustre 10 his revolutionary fame, falls
with peculiar force on his immediate success
sur.
On the first accession to the government,
ann IN session which convenience and Gus
tom have rendered short, it will not he ex-
pected that many subjects will be proposed or
acted upon. The multiplication or alteration of
the laws should be avoided as far ms public
convenience will admit. Instances will, how
ever, occur, requiring the interpnsition of the
legislature, of which they will Judge.
The militia, the great buwark of our de-
fence, deserving at all times attention and
support, is at this period, entitled To peculiar
consideration. Experience has taught us,
that in wars between European nations, the
maritime rights of this country are disregard
ed and we have been compelled to support
them, by force. From present appearances.
there is great reason TO apprrhend the same
course ana the same cUnseQuences-tO he
prepared for them is a dictate OF sound policy.
The national government will provide the
means OF protection on the ocean, and is ma
King, annually, valuable additions tn our stock
ot military knowledge by well regulated
academy, and it remains with the States to
cultivate and improve their Militia. Ii may
be affirmed, without fear of contradiction, that
the population of the u. s. from the first set
tiement Of the country To the present day, has
never afforded five thousand naive citizens
who Will voluntarily enlist in the regular ser
vice IN time of peace, unless there is well
founded expectation nf Immediate hostties.
This circumstance, SO Illustrative of the album
dant means Of rewarding labour and of raising
our youth To higher dtsfinies, admonishes US
of the necessity of chershing Il spirit of dsci--
pine among the great body of the people, and
proves, at the same lime, that the militia is at
least I'm the first Instance, our right, our only
efficient, arm of defence.
The state of the Treasury will necessarily
command attention. When it shall he ascer-
tanned, the legislature will he enabled To de-
termine whether any reduction in the expen-
ditnres is required.
An adjustment Of the claim Of this com
monwealth on the government of the u. s. for
services rendered by the militia during the
late war, must be of great Importance to ON
| finances. When it shall have been examined
a statement will he made, in order that the
legislature may indge of the expediency o
any further proceedings on their part.
| In all measurrs for the promotion Of the
common interests, shall at all times be hap
| py To co operate.
WILLIAM EUSTIS.