Litchfield enquirer., 1871-04-13
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT. THE SAN DOMINGO REPORT BEFORE CON.
WASHINGTON, April 5.

WASHINGTON, April 5.
 To tke Senate aud House of Representatives. Il have the honor to submit herewith to the two houses of Congress the report of the commissioners appointed in pursuance of joint resolution approved Jan. 12, 1871. It will be observed that this report more than sustains all have heretofore said in regard to the productiveuess and health fulness Of the republic of San Domingo, of the unanimity of the people for annexation to the United States, and their peaca0le character. It is due to the public as cer- tainly as it is to myself that should here give all the circumstances which first led to the negotiation of treaty for the an nexation of the republic of San Domingo to the United States. When accepted the arduous and responsible position which Inow hold, I did not dream of instituting any steps for the acquisition of insular possessions. I believed, however, our in- stitutions were broad enough to extend over the entire continent as rapidly as oth- CT peoples might desire to bring them selves under our protection. I believed further that we should not permit any in- dependent government within the lim- its of North America to pass from condi- ton of independence to one of ownership or protection under an European power. !
 Soon after my inauguration as Presi- dent was waited upon by an agent of President Baez with a proposition to annex the republic of San Domingo to the Uni. ted States. This gentleman represented the capacity of the island, the desire of the people, and their character and habits, about as they have been described by the mmissioners, whose report accompanies this message. He stated further that be. ing weak in numbers and poor in purse. they were not capable of developing their great resources; that the people had no it- centive to industry on account of lack of protection for their accumulations, and that if not accepted by the United States with their institutions, which they loved above those of any other nation, they would be compelled to seek protection elsewhere. To these statements'I made no reply, and gave, no indication of what I thought of the proposition. In the course of time was waited upon by second gentleman from San Domingo, who made the same representations, and who was re- ceived in like manner.
 In view of the facts which had been laid before me, and with an earnest desire to maintain tho Monroe doctrine. I be- lieved I would be derelict in my duty if I did not take measures to ascertain the ex- act wish of the government and inhabitants of the republic of San Domingo in regard to annexation, and communicate informa- tion to the people of the United States. Under attending circumstances felt if l turned deaf ear to this appeal might in future be justly charged with a fragrant neglect of public interests and an utter dis regard of the welfare of 8 down trodden race. praying for the blessings of free and strong government, and for protection in the enjoyment of the fruits of their own industry. Those opponents of annexation who heretofore professed to be .pre-em! inently friends of man. I believe would be my most violent assailants if l neglected so clear duty. Accordingly, after having appointed commissioners to visit the Is. land who declined on account of sickness. I selected . second gentleman. in whose capacity. judgment and integrity I had,
 and have yet. the most gunbOunded conf dence. He visited San Domingo. not to