Daily Kennebec journal. [microfilm reel] (Augusta, Me.) 1870-1975, 1881-12-08
4ailp Annntbtf Journal.
Augusta. Thursday Morning, Dec. 8.


The Presidents message.
The message of President Arthur il
comprehensive asA abls Staas pspee.
Nearly every subject which such work
should consider has been taken n and
ali are treated in 4 Dueid. Cd I'D
manner, ard With &C., sesao md
judgment The openine reserssc. tothe
assassination Of Presideat Gar6s6b .
brief but feeling tribut4te M latter. The
review Of our relaiio with foreign eoun-
tries presents gratifying picture. We
are at peace with all the world; not
ripple disturbs the friendliness of our
intercourse with any. except the slight
misunderstanding which exists with
Chill and Peru. It is wonderful to note
how our government has been gaining in
the confidence and esteem Of China and
Japan, and what an immense field for COM
merce between our people and theirs is
opening up across the Pacific.
The exhibit Of the condition Of the treas
ury, and Of our general financial condition,
presents but little that is new. as the coun-
try iArconstantly kept we'll informed upon
these matters. Nevertheless the success
with which we are paying of the
national debt. and discharging all
financial obligations from an over
flowing treasury, and releasing our
selves from all the pecuniary embar-
easements and straits to which the war re-
duced us. Is one to which we can point
with just pride ~ an example the like Of
which the hil11fy Of the world recounts
of no other nation.
The recommendation of the President
for the reduction of internal taxation will
meet with general approval. 1t signifies
how great is the mastery we are acquir-
ing over the public debt, also the great
prosperity Of our people.
The recommendation for the increase Of
the army is probably wise. but there is a
national caution and jealousy against such
an increase, which must be removed be-
fore the desired addition will be granted.
The President Is sensible in regard to
stopping the coinage Of silver dollars I'M
der present circumstances likewise in
his suggestions concerning national banks
in his remarks concerning the Indian pol
icy of the government; and upon the sub
iect of the carrying trade.
Concerning the want Of navy there
can be but one opinion. that which is ut
tered by the President touching that SUBJ
iect. Our present navy is but an apology
for navy in these times. In war it
would be worthless to guard our extend
ed sea coast, which would lie open to the
ravages of foreign enemies. -subjecting
our coast towns and cities to vssts aad !
destruction enormously in excess Of the
sum it would require to build and equip
a suitable navy. The work of construct
ing vessels for that purpose should begin
forthwith Congress will neglect press
ing duty if il fails to act with promptness
upon the Presidents recommendation.
The Presidents remarks upon the Nor
mon question will be well received. On
the civil service question he is entirely
sensible, and his views are eminently
practical. but somewhat severe on
school boy examinations As prerequisites
for holding places Of trust and impor-
lance.
The message will be read with great
interest and general satisfaction. rs well
because of the pleasing history which it
presents Of our governmental affairs. rs
for the excellent Recommendations and
suggestions it contains.