Constantine republican. [volume] (Constantine, Mich.) 1836-1838, 1837-03-29

To the hopes of the hostile, the fears Of the timid
and the doubts of the anxious, actual experience
has given the conclusive reply. We have seen
time gradually dispel every unfavorable forebod-
ing, and our constitution surmount every adverse
circumstance, dreaded ut the outset rs beyond
control. Present excitement will, at all times,
magnify present dangers but true philosophy
must teach us that none more threatening than
the past can remain to be overcome; and We
ought, tor we have just reason, to entertain an
abiding confidence in the stability of institu-
tions, and an entire conviction that, if admins
tered in the true form, character, 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 genera
tons, that chosen spot where happiness springs
from perfect equality of political rights.
For myself, therefore, desire to declare that
the principle that will govern me in the high duty
to which my country calls me, is, strict adher-
ence to the letter and spirit of the constitution,
as it was designed by those who framed it. Look.
ing back to il as sacred instrument carefully
and not easily framed remembering that it was
throughout work ofconcesson and compromise;
viewing it as limited TO national objects; regard
ing it as leaving to the people and the States all
power not explicitly parted with shall endea.
vor TO preserve, protect, and defend it, by anxi-
ously referring to its provision for direction in
every action. To matters of domestic concern
ment which it has intrusted to the Federal Co.
vernment, and TO such relate to our intercourse
with foreign nations, shall zealousy devote my.
self; beyond those limits shall never pass.
To enter, On this OCCASION into further or
more minute exposition of my views on the va
rious questions of domestic policy, would be as
obtrusive as it is probably unexpected Before
the suffrages of my countrymen were conferred
upon me, submitted to them, with great preci.
sion, my opinions on all the most prominent of
these subjects. Those opinions shall endeavor
to carry out with my utmost ability.
Our course offoreign policy has been so uniform
and ineligible, as to constitute rule of execu-
tive conduct which leaves little to my discretion,
unless, indeed, were willing TO run counter to
the lights OF experience, and the known opinions
OF my constituents. We sedulously cultivate the
! friendship Of ell nations, as the condition most
compatible with our welfare and the principles
| OF our Government. We decline alliances, us
| adverse TO our peace. We desire commercial re-
lations on equal terms, being over willing 10 give
fair equivalent for advantages received. We
endeavor to conduct our intercourse with OPEN
ness and sincerity; promptly avowing our OBJ
iects, ard seeking TO establish that mutual frank
ness which is as beneficial in the dealings of ma.
tions as of men. We have no disposition, and we
disclaim all right, to NEEDLE in disputes, whether
internal or foreign, that may modest other coun-
tries; regarding them. in their actual state, as
social communities, and preserving strict neu-
trality in all their controversies. Well knowing
the tried valour of our people, and our exhaust.
less resources, we neither anticipate nor fear any
designed aggression; and in the consciousness of
our own just conduct, we feel security that we
shall never be called upon to exert our determine
ton, never to permit an invasion Of our rights,
without punishment or redress.
In approaching, then, in the presence Of my
assembled countrymen, to make the solemn pro-
mise that yet remains, and to pledge myself that
will faithfully execute the Office l am about to
fill, bring with me settled purpose TO maintain
the Institutions of my country, which, l trust,
will atone for the errors commit.
In receiving from the people the sacred trust
twice confded to my illustrious predecessor, and
which he has discharged so faithfully and SO well,
know that cannot expect to perform the ar
united as have been in his counsels, daily wit
ness of his exclusive and unsurpassed devotion to
his countrys welfaie, agreeing with him in scnti-
ments which his countrymcn have warmly snp-
ported, and permitted to partake largely ofhis
confidence, may hope that somewhat of the same
cheering appreciation will be found to attend upon
my path. For him, but express, with my own,
the wishes Of all-that he may yet long live to
enjoy the brilliant evening Of his we'll spent life !;
and for myself conscious of but ono DESIRE faith
fully to serve my country, throw myself. with
out fear, on its Justice and its kindness. Beyond
that, only look to the gracious protection of the
Divine Being, whose strengthening support l
humby solicit, and whom fervently pray to look
down upon us all. May it be among the dispen-
sations of his providence to bless our beloved
country with honors and with length of days
may her ways be ways Of pleasantncss, and all her
paths be peace.