Arizona republican., 1891-01-21
THE MESSAGE.

With today's issue of TIE REPUBLICAN is presented to it's subscribers a copy of the biennial message of the Governor of Arizona to the Legislative Assembly of the Territory.
 Owing to the late arrival of Governor Irwin, the labor of preparing the usual message devolved upon Secretary Mur- phy, and it was communicated by him to the Legislature in joint session yester- day morning.
 As will be noted by an examination of the paper, it is comprehensive of every material point etfecting the Territory's welfare. The main subject treated upon Is the financial condition of the Terri tory. By reason of imperfect laws and an erroneous system oi assessing prop erty, there is yearly a considerable deiicIt, bearing interest at the rate of 10 per cent per annum. As remedies for this state of affairs are recommended higher valuations and strict economy in the admin istration of Territorial affairs. As not essential to the TerritOry's admin istration and as expenses that might well be dispensed with, the Acting Gov ernor recommends the abolition of the offices of Commissioner of Immigration, Territorial GeOlogist, Veterinary Sur geon and the Live Stock Sanitary Com mission. The saving thus made, com bined with retrenchment in the Insane Asylum and Territorial Prison would meet the annual deficit. A striking suggestion is that all kinds of public business and professions be taxed for Territorial revenue. Reports are submitted from the Territorial Prison. Insane Asylum, Ter i.Orial University and Territorial Normal School, showing each of these institutions to be in a pros porous condition. The proposal to abolish the offices of Attorney General and Su- perintendent of Public Instruction is vigorously combated. The administra- ton of the affairs of the Territorial Aud itor and Territorial Treasurer is espec- ially commended. The need of a north and south railroad is presented in fair and unprejudiced manner, the several advantages of the various plans being discussed. Attention was recommended to the necessity of passing an equitable freights and fares bill, as being to the advantage of both the people and the railroads. A militia law is recommended and the citizen soldiery of the Territory highly complimented for the work they have done under difficulties. At tentiUn is directed to the presentation of Arizona's varied products at the Worlds Fair, though the difficulty of appropri- ating to such purpose is acknowledged. Statehood is favored and the permanent location of the Capital endorsed. The fee system is favored for the compensa- tiOn of county officers and a per diem and mileage recommended for witnesses in criminal cases. The iamoIs alien hospital law is considered worthy of re- peal; the Australian ballot system favored; fiestas and gambling discoun- t9nanced; a force of Territorial, Amounted police is suggested for use in pursuit of Indian raiders, and legislation is solicited in aid of a bridge across Salt River. A number of memorials to Congress are recommended, and the message ends with pleasing tribute to Governor Irwin and hope that his administration will be given the support and appreciation of all.
 Taken as a whole, the message will be generally commended. Though it may be considered by some as being too severely economical in its tone, surely a spirit of retrenchment is commendable. The Legislature will do well to heed the advice from one who is so thoroughly familiar with Arizona and the needs of her people.