The herald., 1837-03-06

dividuals 10 popular Indignation but neither masses
OF the people, nor sections OF the country have been
sweryed from their devotion to the bond OF union,
and the principles il has made sacred II will be ever
thus. Such attempts at agitation may periodically
return, but with each the object will be better under
stood That tpredominatng affection for our political
system which prevails throughout territorial
limits; that calm and enlightened judgment which
ultimately governs our people one vast body, will
always be at hand to resist and control every effort
foreign or domestic, which aims, would lead, to
overthrow our institutions.
What can be more gratifying than such retrospect
as this We look back on obstacles avoided, and
dangers overcome; on expectations more than real
ized, and prosperity perfectly secured To the hopes
OF the hosls the fears of the tnd and the doubts of
the anxions, actual experience has given the conclu
slve reply. We have seen time gradually dspel eve
ry unfavorable forebodng, and our constitution sur
mount every adverse circumstance dreaded at the
outset as beyond control Present excitement will, at
all times magnify present dangers but true philoso
ply must teach us that none more threatening than
the past can remain to be overcome; and we ought,
Tor we have Just reason, 10 entertain abiding
aencc IN the stability OF Institutions and entire
conviction that If administered in the true FORM cha
racter and spirit in which they were established they
are abundantly adequate to preserve to us and our
children the rich blessings already derived from them;
to make our beloved land for thousand generations
that chosen spot where happiness springs from per-
feet equality Of political rights.
For myself therefore, desire to declare, that the
principle which shall govern me in the high dnty to
winch my country calls me, is, strict adherence to
the letter and spirit of the constitution, it was de-
signed by these who framed it. Looking back to it
as sacred instrument carefully and not easily framed;
remembering that 1t was throughout work of con-
cesslon and compromise; viewing 1t as limited to ma
tional objects regarding it as leaving it to the people
and the states all power not explicitly parted with;
shall endeavor to preserve protect and defend it, by
anxiously referring its provision for direction in ev
cry action. To matters of domestic concernment
which 1t has entrusted to the Federal Government,
and TO such relate to intercourse with foreign
nations, l shall zeaousy devote myself; beyond
those limits shall never pass
TO enter on this occasion, into further or more mi
mute exposition OF my veYs the various questions
Of domestic policy would BE obtrusve it is pro-
badly unexpected Before the suffrages of my coun-
trymen were conferred upon me, submitted to them
with great precision my opinions all the most pro-
minent of these subjects Those opinions shall endea
vor to carry out with my utmost ability.
Our course Of foreign policy has been uniform
and ineligible as 10 constitute rule of executive
conduct, which leaves little 10 my discretion, sness
indeed, were willing to counter 10 the lights of
experience, and the known opinions of my constltu-
ents We sedulously cultivate the friendship of all
nations, as the condition most compatible with our
welfare, and the principles of our government. We
decline alliances, adverse 10 peace. We desire
commercial relations equal terms, being ever will
ling to give fair equivalent for advantages received.
we endeavor to conduct our intercourse with OPEN
hcoS ouh SmeciHyy pIonipuy dNoWiuk our ODJtCts,
and seeking to establish that mutual frank which
is as beneficial in the dealings of nations, Of men.
We have no disposition and we disclam all right
meddle In disputes, whether internal foreign that
may molest other countries; regarding them in their
actual state as social communities and preserving
strict neutrality in all their controversies Well know
ing the tried valor OF our people and our exhausess
resources we neither anticipate nor fear any designed
aggress son; and IN the consciousness of just
conduct, we feel a security that we shall never be
called upon to exert determination, never per-
mt an INVASION of our rights, without punishment or
redress.
In approaching, then, in the presence of my assem-
bled countrymen, TO make the solemn promise that
yet remains, and to pledge myself that will faithful
ly execute the office am about to fill, bring with
me settled purpose to maintain the institutions of
my country, which, trust, will atone for the errors
commit.
In receiving from the people the sacred trust twice
conhded to my iustrlous predecessor, and which he
has drcharged so faithfully and WELL know that
canaot expect TO perform the arduous task with equal
ability and success But, united as have been in his
councils daily witness of his exclusive aud unsur
passed devotion TO his country's welfare, agreeing
with hum In sentiments which his countrymen have
warmly supported and permitted 10 parake largely
OF his confidence, may hope that somewhat of the
same cheering appreciation will be found TO attend
upon my puth. For him, but express with nay own,
the wishes of a that he may yet long live to enjoy
the brilliant evening Of his wsll-spent life; and for
myself conscious oibut one DESIRE faithfully to serve
my country throw myself without fear, on its JUS
tce and lts kindness. Beyond that, look only to
the gracious protection Of the Divine Being whose
renghenlng support humbly solicit, and whom
fervently pray 10 look do upon us all. May il be
among the dlspensations Of his providence to bless
our beloved country with honors and with length Of
days; may her waysbe ways of pleasanness and oil
her paths be peace.
After the address was delivered the oath was ad-
to the President by the Chief Justice and
the Vice President Secretary, and Members Of the
Senate, preceded by their Sergeantatarm returned
To the Senate Chamber