Semi-weekly interior journal. [volume] (Stanford, Ky.) 1881-1905, 1882-12-08


have read in days agone, but il is
pretty fair document, which makes
several suggestions that will touch
popular chord. He starts out with thu
statement that our relations with for
eign powers are in a most gratifying
condition, the slight differences a
have arisen during the year having
been amicably settled or likely t.
reach an early adjustment. The fact
that there we're raised during the last
fiscal year over 145,OOO,OOO in ex'
cess of the ordinary expenses of the
government, reminds him that we are
paying of the national debt too fast
and he therefore recommends the abo
lition of all internal taxes save on
distilled spirits and a simpli6cation Of
the machinery of collection, whereby
1900 or 1000 officers can be dispens-
cd with. The tariff question is touch
ed, but so gently that neither free
trader nor protectionist can take ex-
ceptions. though he admits that as it at
presents stands, it is in many respects
unjust and ought to be revised. The
silver coined under the act of few
years ago now amounts to s12S, OOO,'
600 and as but little over $50, 0OO,-
600 have gone into circulation, and is
unpopular as a currency, he advises
that its coinage be stopped. Our ex'
isting Notifications, he says, are motto.
riously inadequate for the protection
of the great cities and harbors and an
amount suited to our present necessi'
ties ought to be provided for. He
touches on the iniquitous "Riyer and
Harbor" bill in sort of 81 told you
SO style" and recommends that here
after the bills for such appropriations
be presented separately, so that each
can stand on its merit and not be car
ried through on the general worth Of
the bill. He wants our naval forces
increased and agrees with the Secreta-
~ of War that there is immediate de-
mand for the construction of three
iron.clads and appropriations for high
power rifle cannon for the torpedo ser
vice, and hopes that Congress will
take steps to revive American ship
building and restore the U. S. flag to
the ocean carrying trade. The letter
writing public will applaud the sug
gestion that postage be reduced to two
cents, and it seems advisable for the
P. o. Department is more than self
sustaining since the star-routers have
been routed. ITO correct prevalent
misapprehension" as to his removal Of
officers, he shows exceedingly bad
taste since he tries to defend his ac-
ton by an invidious comparison with
his predecessor, whose shoes latchets
he was hardly worthy to unloose. He
declares his approval OF such legisla'
ton as will prohibit by law the COL
lection of political contributions, but
we hardly suppose he can be in earn
est about this, as without the money
thus forced from Office holders, his
party has seen its last election tri-
umph. The message closes with a
handsome acknowledgement to Al
mighty God for the many blessings
vouchsafed the nation and the expires
sion of the hope that the cOunsels Of
Congress may be harmonious, pru-
dent, patriotic and just. Consider
ing that his administration has been
most signally rebuked within the last
month. the paper is conservative and
prudent one and will be we'll received by
the country without regard to party
affiliations.