Evening Star Newspaper, December 3, 1866, Page 1

“THE EVENING STAR 18 PUBLISHED DAILY, (EXCEPT SUNDAY) AT THE STAR BUILDINGS - Sowwest copner of Penn’a avenue and 110) otrect sr W. D. WALLAOH. edn ener taaitn The STAR is served by Me carriers to their subscribers in the City and Distric at Tam Currs PER WEEE. Copies at the counter, with St. XXVIII. PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE. —__e———— #eilow-cusazens of the Senate and House some wangquiiity, aad c: Wally declared to exist tnrougbeut the whole of the United States. In all of the States civil aurbority bas superseded the coercion of arms. and the peopie, by their velantary action, are maintaining their governments im fall activity and compiete operation. The enforcement of the laws is no longer “obstructed in aay State by combisations too powerful te be suppressed by the erdimary course of judicial + suge;” amd the animosities eageudered by the war are rapidly yielding to the benificent in- iiuences of our free institations, and to the kindly effects of unrestricted social and com. merciad intercourse. An entire restoration of tratermal feeling must be the earnest wish of every patriotic heart; and we will bave ac- complished our grandest national achievement when. forgetting the sad events of the past, and remembering only tbeir instructive les- seas, we resume our onward career as 4 Iree, proeperous, and united peeple. la my message of the 4ta of December, 1-05, Congress was iniormed of the measares which had been instituted by the Executive with a vow to the gradual resteration of the States “a which the imsurrecton occurred to their relations with the (yeneral Governmeat. Pro- visional Governors had been appointed, Con- ventions called, Governors elected, Legisia- tures assembied, and Senators and Represen- aatives chosen to the Coagress of the United States. Courts bad been opened for the en- forcement of laws long mabeyance. The block- -ade bad been removed. custom-houses re-es- taplisbed, and the internal revenue laws put sm force, in order thatthe people might con- tribute to we national income. Postal oper- ations bad been renewed, and efforts were be- ing Made to restore them to their former con- ditiom of eiliciency. The States themselves bad been asked to take part in the bigh fuac- tion of amending the Constitution, and of t sanctioning the extinction of African ry as one of the legitimate results of oar inter- necine struggle. Having progressed thus far, the Executive Department found that it had accomplished pearly all that was within the scope of its con- stitutions] authority. One thing, however, yet remained tu be done before the work of resio- ration could be completed, and that was the admission to Congress of loyal Senators and Representatives trom the States whose people had rebelled agaimst the lawful authority of the General Goverument. This question de- velved upon the respective Hiouses, which, by the Constitution, are made the judges of the elections, returns, and qualifications of their own members; and its considelation at once engaged the attention of Concress. in the meantime, the Executive Department —no other plan having been proposed by Con- gress—continued its efforts to perfect, as far as ‘Was practicable, the restoration of the proper Teiauons between the citizens of the respective States, the States, and the Federal Govern- ment, extending, ffom time to time, as the pub- hie interests seemed to require, the judicial, Tevenue, and postal s: ms of the country. With the advice and ut of the Senate, the becessary officers were appointed, aud appr. priations made by Congress for the payment of their salaries. The proposition to amend the Federal Constitution, so as wo prevent the existence of slavery within the United States or any place subject to their jurisdiction. was ratified by tbe requisite number of S:ates; and on the isib’day of December, 1965, it was of- ficially declared to bave become valid as a partof the Constitution of the United States. All of the States im which the insurrection had existed promptly amended their constitutions, so as to make them conform to the greatchauge us effected in the organic jaw ot the jand: ciared null and void ail ordinances and ws of seeession: repudiated all pretended éebto and obligations created for the reyolution- ary purposes of the wsurrection; and proceed- ed, iu good faith, to the enactment of measures for the protection and amelioration of the con- dition of the colored race. Congress, however. yet hesitated tw admit any of inese States to representation, and it was not until toward the close of the eighth mon!Rof the session that an exception was made in favor of Ten- nessee, by the admission of her Senators and Representatives. i deem itasubject of profound regret that Congress has thus far failed to admit to seats loyal Sepators and Representatives irom te otber States, whose inhabitants, with those of ‘Tennessce, had engaged in the rebellion, Ten States—more than one-fourth of the whole number—remain without representation; the seats of flity members in the House of Repre- sentatives and of tweaty members in the San- ate are yet vacant—not by their own consent. not by a failure of election, but by the refusal of Congress to accept their credentials. Their Admission, itis believed, would have accom- plished much towards the renewal and strengthening of our relations as one pie, and removed serious cause for discontent on the part of the inhabitants of those States It weula have accorded with the great re enugciated in the Deciaration of American In- dependence, that no people ought to bear the burden of taxation, and yet be denied the right of representation. It would have been incon- sonance with the express provisions of the Constitution, that “each State shall have at least one Kepresentative,” and “that no State, without its consent, shall be deprived ef its equal suffrage in the Senate.” hese provi- sions were intended to secure to every State, and to the people of every State, the right of representation in each House of Congress; and SO important was it deemed by the framers of the Constitution that tae equality of the States in the Senate should ve preserved, that not even by an amendment of the Constitution can any State, withoat its consent, be denied a vouce in that branch ef the National Legisia- ture. Itis true, it bas been assumed that the exis- tence of the States was terminated by tbe re- bellious acts of their inhabitants, and that the insurrection having been suppressed, they were thenceforward to be considered merely 35 conquered territories. The Legislative, “xecutive, and Judicial Departments of the Government have, however, with great dis- ‘inctness and uniform consistency, refused to sanction ap assamption soincompatiole with the nature of our republican system, and with the professed objects ofths war. TRroughout the recent legisiation of Congress, the undeni- able fact makes iwelf apparent, that these ten political communities are nething les« than States of this Union. At the very commence- ment ofthe rebellion, each House deciared, with 3 unanimity as remarkable as it wassig- nificant, that the WAr was not -waged, upoa OUr part, im any spirit of oppression, nor for any purpose of conquest or subjugation, nor purpose of overthrowing or jasong wet the rights orestablished institutions of those States, bat to defend and maintain the suprem. acy of the Constitunon and all laws made ia pursuance thereof, and to preserve the Union with ali the dignity, eqaality, and rightsof the several States unimpaited: and that as soou as these obcts” were “accomplished the war ought to cease.” In some instances, Senators were permitted to continue their legislative Junctions, while in other instances Represen- tatives were elected and admitted teseats after their States had formally declared their right to withdraw from the Daten, and were en- Geavoring to maintain that right by force of arms. Al) of these States whose ple were in inst rrection, &s States, were jucladed in the apportionment of the direct tax of twenty millions Of dollars aungally laid upon the United States by the act approved 5th Au- gust, 561. Congrese, by the actof March 4. ise, * *, for ju- dicial purposes, beap divided into district as States alone can be divided. The same recog- nition appears in the recen* legislation in re- terence to Tennessee, which evideutly resw apen the-factihat the functions of the State were not destroyed by the rebellion, but mere- ly suepended; and that principle is of course applicable to those States which, like Te: see. atempted to renotince their places in the Usion The action of the Exeent Department of | « Goveramept upos ubis subject has been untly de@pite and uniform, and the parpose of the war was specifically stated ia the Proc- | jamation wemed by my predecessor om the 22d. September, 1562. It was then solemaiy pro-/ claimed and deelared that “hereafier, as bere- | tore, "he war will be prosecuted (ur the opine | of practically restoring the constitutions reia-_ tion between the Uaited States and each of the Sates and the people thereof, in Whien Stttrs_ that relation is or may be suspended sone fl turbed.” t The reeogn ition of the States by the Judicial: Department of the Government has eet clears and conclusive jn el) proceedings affec tives from any and all of be no ast gro ppre who are disloyal will be clothed with the een the Vonstitution and the laws forced Each House ii tions, returns, and qualifications of its own members,” and may, “with the co two-thirds, expel a member.” When a Senator or Representative presents his certificate of election, he may atonce be admitted or rejected or, should there be any question as to bis eli- gibility, his credentials may be referred for site constirmtional and legal qualifications. refused admission as @ member for want of due ali ing them as States, had ia the Supreme, Oir- t, and District Uoarts. ‘nm the admission of Sen: id Representa- States there can n that persons of a ‘8 of legislation; for this could not happen 6 en. vigilant and faithful neress. Made the “judge of the elec- urrence of Le igation to the appropriate committee. admitted to apeat, it must be upon evidence satisfactory to the House of which he thus becomes a member, that he possesses the reqnt- I ance to the Government. aud returned to his constituents, they are admonished that Bone but persons loyal to the United States will be allowed a voice in the Laegicia Councile of the Nation. and the political power and moral influence of Congress are thus effectively exerted in the interests of lo¥alty to the Government and fidelity to the Union. Tpon this question, so vitally affecting the restoration of the Union and the permanency of our present form of government, my con- victions, heretofore expressed, have undergone no change; but, on the contrary, their correct- | nees has been confirmed by reflection and time. If the admission of loyal members to seats in the respective Houses of Congress was wise and expedient a year ago, it is no less wise aud expedient now. It this anomalous con- dition is right now—if. in the exact condition of these States at the present time, {t is lawful to exclude them from representation, I do not see that the question will be changed by the efflux of time, Ten years hence, if tuese States Temain as © .$¥ are, the right of representation will be no ®tfonger—the right of exclusion will be no weaker, The Constitution of the United States makes it the duty of the President two recommend to the consideration of Congress “such measures as he ehall judge necessary or expedient.” 1 know of no measure more imperatively de- manded by every consideration of nattoual interest, sound policy, and equal justice, than the admission of loval members from the now unrepresented States. This would consum- mate the work of restoration, and exert a most salutary influence in the re-establishment of peace, Darmony, and fraternal feeling. It ‘would tend greatly to renew tee confidence of the American people in the vigor and stability of their institutions. It would bind us more closely together as a nation, and enable us to show to the world the inherent and recnpera- tive power of a Government foanded npon the will of the people, and established upon the principles of liberty, justice, and intelligence. Our increased strength and enbanced pros. rity would irrefragibly demonstrate the fal- lacy of the arguments sgainst free institutions drawn from our recent national disorders by the enemies of republican government. The admission of loyal members from the States now excluded from Congress, by allaying doubt and apprehension. would turn capital how awaiting an opportanity for investmen into the channels of trade and industry would alleviate the present treubled condi of those States, and. by inducing emigrati aid in the settlement of fertile regions now uncultivated, and Jead to an mcreased produc- tion of those staples which have greatly to the wealth of the nation commerce of the world. New fields t prise wonld be epened to our progressive peo- ple. and soon the devastations of war wonid be repaired, and all traces of our domestic differences effaced from the minds of our coun- trymen. In our efforts to preserve “the unity of Giov- ernment which constitutes as one people,” by restoring the States 1o the condition which they heid prior te the rebellion, we sbouid be cautious, lest, baving rescued onr nation trom perils of threatened disintegration, we resort to consolidation. and in the end absointe des- potiem, ss a remedy for the recurrence of sim- ilar troubles. The war baving terminated. and ‘with it all oceasion for the exercise of powers of conbtiul constitutionality, we shouid has- ten to bring legislation within the boundaries prescribed by the Constitution, and ‘to retarn tothe ancient landmarks established by our fathers for the guidance of suceeeding genera- tions. “The Constitution which at any time exists, until changed by an explicit and an. thentic act of the whole people, is sacredty ob- Higatory upon ail” “If, in the opinion of the people, the distribation or modifi cation of the constitutional powers be,in any partiealar, wrong, lét it be corrected by an amendment in the way in which the Constitution designates. But let thete be no change by usurpation; for” “i is the custom: ‘weapon by which ‘free Governments are ed.”* ASHINGTON spoke these words to his countrymen, when, tollowed by their love and gratiinde, he vol- untarily retired trom the cares of public life. “To keep in all things within the pale of our constitu tio: powers, and cherish the Federal Union a the only rock of safety,” were pre- scribed by JEFFERSON as rules of action to en- dear to his “comntrymen the trae principles of their Constitution, and promote a union 6f sentiment and action equally auspicious te their happiness andeafety.” Jackson held that the action of the General Government should always be strictly contined te the sphere of its appropriate duties, and justly and forcibly urged that our Government is not tc be main- tained nor our Union preserved “by invasions of the rights and powers of the several States. in thus attempting to makeour General Gov- ern: t strong, we make it weak. Its true strength cogsisis in leaving individuals and States as mreh as possible te themselves; in Mmabing itse:t felt. notin its power, but in ite bene Acence; not in its control, but in its pro- tection; not ip binding the States more closely to the center, but leaving eacn to move anob- structed in ite proper constitutional orbit.” These are the teachings of men whese deeds and services have made them illustrious, and who, jong since withdrawn from the scenes of Hfe, have left to weir country the rich legacy of. their example, their wisdom, and their pa- triotism. ‘wing fresno inspiration from 4neir lessons, Jet us emulate them in love of country And respect tor the Uonstivution and the laws. The report of the Secretary of the Treasury affords much information rei time the rev- enue and commerce of the country. His views upon the currency. and@with reference to a proper adjustment of our revenue system, in- ternal as well as impest, are commended to the careful consideration of Congress. In my jast annual message 1 expressed my general views upon these subjects. I need how onty eallattention to the necessity of carrying Into every department of the Government a system of rigid accountability, thorough retrench- ment, and wise economy. With no excep- tional por unusual expenditures, the oppress sive burdens of taxation can be lessened oh A modificaty of our revenue la as ‘will be consistent with the public faith, and the legitumate and necessary wants of tne Goverpment. The report presents & much more satiefae- tory condition of our finances than one year ago the most sanguine could Dive anti: vd. During the fiscal year ending ‘the 20th Jane, 1965, the last year of the war, the public debt was increased $941,902.537, and on the 31st of October, 1565, it amounted to $2,740,954,750. On the 31st day of October, 1966, it had been re- duced to $2,551.510/.06, the diminution, during @ period of tourteea months, commencing September 1, 1865, and ending October 31, 1836, having been $206,379,565. In the last annual report on the stare of the finances, it was es- timated that during the three quarters of the M@ecal year ending the 90th of June last, the debt would be imerensed $112,191,937. Daring that period, however, it was Teduced 831,196,- 357, the receipts of the year having been €99,- more, and the expeadiures 235 less than the estimates Nothing could more clearly indicate than these statements the ex- tent and availability of the sational resources, and the rapidity ancsafety with whieh, under cur form of goverpment, grest military and waval esraplishments ‘can be disbanded, anda expences reduced froma war toa peace feot- ing. i “ Daring te fiscal year ending the goth 1 June, 1*66, the receipts were the expenditures $54), 750,040, leaving an il able surplus of $37,281,64u. Itis estimated that memeetetoies an expenditores will reach the sum of $316,423;+ wi6, Jenving in the Treasury a us of $158,633.98. Por the fiscal year ending Jane 38, ISGR, t is eRtimated that the receipts. will Smoun! to $196,001", aud that the expendi- vores will be $350,247.611—showing @n excess of $F5,162.259 m favor of the Goverament. ‘There estimated receipts may be diminished by & recuction of excise but after ai! t and of following years w)ti doubtless be ee Mi cient | cover all Jegitimate charges upom the Frease- —— | | Ty, and leave a large annual surplus te be applied to the payment of the principal of the debt. There seems now to be no good reason why taxes may not be reduced as the country advances in population and wealth, and yet the debt be extinguished within the next quarter of a century. The report of the Secretary ot War far- niches valuable and important information in reference to the operations of his Department during the pastyear. Few volunteers now Temain in tbe service, and they are being dis- charged as rapidly as they can be replaced by Tegular troeps. be army has been prompuy paid, carefully provided with medical treat- ment, Well sheltered and subsisted, aud is to be turnished with breech-loading small arms. The military strength of the nation has been upimpaired by the discharge of volanteers, the disposition of unserviceable or perishable stores, and the retrenchment of expenditare, Sufficient war material to meet any emergency has been retaiped, and, from the disbanded volunteers standing ready to respond to the national call, jarge armies can be rapidly or- ganized, equipped, and Comeontroiad. ‘orti- fications on the coast and frontier have re- ceived, or are being prepared for more power. fularmaments, lake surveys and harbor and river improvements are in course of energetic prorecuuon. Preparations have been made tor the payment of the additional bounties an- thorized during the recent session of Congress, under such reguiations as will protect the Government from fraud. and secure to the honorably-discharged soldier the well-earned reward of his faithfulpees and gallantry. More than six thousand maimed soldiers have received artificial limbs or other surgical ap- paratus: and forty-one national cemeteries, containing the remains of 104.526 Union sol« diers, have already been established. The total estimate of military appropriations is $25.25, 669. lt is stated in the report of the Secretary of the Navy thatthe naval force at this time conste's of two bundred and seventy-eight vessels, armed with two thousand three hun- dred and fifty-one guns. Of these, one han- dred and fitteen vessels, carrying one thous- and and twenty-nine guns, are id commission, distributed chirfly among seven squadrons. The number ot men tn the service is thirteen thousand ix hundred. Great activit vigHance baye heen displayed by squadrons, and their movements have been judiciously and efficiently arranged in such Mmanner as would best promote American com- merece, and protect the rights aad interests of our countrymen abroad. The vessels unem- ployed are undergoing repairs, or are laid up until thet rvices may ke reqnired. Most of the ir d fleet is at League Island, in the eipnia, a place which, until decisive action should be taken by Oongress, Was selected by the Secretary of the Navy as the most eligible location for that elass of vessels. Itis important that asuitable pablic station should be provided for tbe iron-clad fleet. Iris intended that these vessels shall be in proper condition for any emergency, and ir ts desirabie that the bill accepting League Island for naval purposes, which passed the House of Representatives atits last session, should receive final action at an early period, in order that there may be a suitable public sation for this class of yessels,as well as a navy-yard of area sefficient for the wants of the service, on the Delaware river. The Naval Pension fund ameunts to $11,750,000, baving been increased $2,750,000 during the year. The expenditures of the Department for the fiscn! yeur e.ding 30th June last were $45,.24,526, and the estimates for the coming year amount to £23.565,496. Attention is in- vited to the condition of our seamen, and the importance of legisiative measures for their relief and improvement. The suggestions in behalf of this deserving class of our fellow- citizens are earnestly recommended to the fa- ttention of Congress. ot the Postmaster General pre- ftisfactory condition of the postal service, and submils recommendations which deserve the consideration of Congress. The revenues of the Department for the year ead- ing June 30, 1966, were $14,385,086, and the ex- enditures $16,352,079, showing an excess of the jatter of $965,093. In anticipation of this de- ficiency, however, aspecial appropriation was made by Congress in the act approved July 2+, 1-66. Incinding the standing appropriation of $700,000 for free mail matter, as a legitimate portion of the revenues yet remaining unex- yended, the actual deficiency for the past year is only $265,003—a sum within $51,141 of the amount estimated in the annua! report of 1464. The decrease of revenu® compared with the previous year was one and one-fitth per cent., ond the increase of expenditures, owing prin- cipally to the enlargement ef the mail service Jn the South, was twelve per cent. Onthe3ih of June last there were in operation six thou- sand nine hundred and thirty mail routes, with ab aggregate length of one hundred ana eighty ‘housand pine hundred and twenty-one miles, un aggregate annual transportation of seventy- one million eight bupdred and thirty seven \bhourand nine bundred and fourteen miles. and an aggregate annual cost. ineluding all ex- penditures, of $8,410,154. The length of rail- Toad routes is thirty-two thousand and nimety. two miles, and the annaal transportation thirty million six hundred and nine thousand four hundred and sixty-seven miles. The length of steamboat routes is fourteen thousand three uadred and forty-six miles, and the annual trang three million four hundred and eleven thousand nine hundred and sixty-two miles, Lhe mail serviee is rapidly increasing throughoutthe whole country, and its steady extension in the Southern States indicates their constantly improving condition. The growing importance pf the foreign service also merits attention. The Post Office Department of Great Britain and our own have agreed upon a pre- iiminary basis for a new Postal Convention, which it is believed will proveeminently bene. ficial to the commercial interests of the United Statesyinasmuch as it contemplates a reduction o1 the imternational letter postage to one-balf the existing rates: a reduction of postage with all other countries to and from which corres ponsiance 4s transmitted in the British mail, or in clored mails through the United Kingdom; the establishment of uniform and reasonable charges for the sea and territorial transit of correspondence in closed mails: and an allow- ance toyeach Post Offiee Department of the Tigbt to use ail mail communicatous estab. lisbed under the aatherity of the other for the dispatch of correspondence, either in opeu or ¢loved wale, on the same terms as those appli- cable to the inhabitants of the country provid. img the means of tranemission. The report of the Secretary of the Interior exhibits the condition of those branches of the public service which are committed to his su- ‘vision. During the last fiscal yeir, four mil- jon six bundred and twenty-nine thousand three hundred and twelve acres of public land ‘were disposed of, one inillion eight hundred and ninety-two thousand five hundred and sixteen acres of which were ent under the Domestead act. The policy originally adopted relative to the public lands bas undergone es- sential modifications. Immediate revenue, end not their rapid settlement, was the cardi- nal feature of Burland system Long expe- rience and earnest discussion have resultedin the conviction that the early development of our agricultural ‘resources, and the diffusion of an energetic population over our vast terri- tory, are objects of far greater importance to the national growth and ty than the proerees of the sale of the land to the highest idder in market. The pre-emption laws confer -wponu the pioneer 10 complies with the terms they impose the Fnshees of urehssing & limited portion of “nnoffered "at the imum price. The homestead enactments relieve the settler from the pay- Mmentof pafchase money, and secure him a permanent home, upon condition of resi- dence for & term of years, ‘This liberal policy invites em! on irom the old, ang from the more crowded portions of the new world. Its propitious results are undonbted, and will be More signally manifested Whe time, shalt bave given toit a w: development, ess has made liberal ts of public Iand to corpora! in aid of constracuon ot railroads and other internal im provemenis. Shoutd this wan hereafter bss stringent provis' will be a 8 {aitbful application of the fund. The title to the lands should’ not lege by patent or otherwise, but rematn in the Government and subject to its coutros until come portion of the road bas been’ actnalfy bail time, be them might then, from ‘time veyed to the corporation, bit neverinagrea'er ratio to the whole ee by the grant than the comp! parts bear to the en- tire Jength pa ep een improvement. T restriction, Soveperste, to the. oF Re ene ‘ing conceived in Le ren! reasonable energy, the aettied practice to withdraw re the jands fulling within tne o) grants, ond i tien Foteequent aaveree Fgote A breten tbe 1 dso wittidra: acoBy. of title te the lande eon veyed P unsold. WASHINGTON. D. C.. MONDAY. DECEMBER 3. 1866. Operations on the several lines of the Pacific Raihoad haveteen prosecuted with anexam- pled vigor and success. Should no unforeseen cauees of occur, itis confidently antici- ated that this great thoroughiate will be com- leted before the expiration of the period des- ignated by Congress. During the last fiscal seen pe ep ed to _pensio! including the ex, = bulement: was thirteen million four bapared and filty-nine thonsand nine hundred and pinety-six dollars; and fifty thousand one han- dred ana seventy-seven names were added to the pension rolls. The entire number of pen- sioners, June 30, 1866, was one hundred and twenty-six thousand seven hundred and twen- ty-two. This fact turnishes melancholy and striking proof of the sacr.fices made to vindi- cate the constitutional authority of the Federal Government, and to maintain inviolate the in- tegrity of the Union. They impose upon us corresponding obligations. It is estimated that thirty-three million dollars will be required to meet the exigencies of this branch of the ser- vice during the next fiscal year. Treaties have been concluded with the In- lion, havé unconditionally submitted to our authority, and manifested an earnest desire tor a renewal of friendly relation: t During the year ending September 3W, 1566, eight thousand seven hundred and sixteen pat- ente for neetul inventions and designs were issued, and at that date the balance in the Treasury to the credit of the Patent fund was two hundred and twenty-eight thousand two hundred and ninety-seven dollars. As asubject upon which dependsan immense amonnt of the preduction and commerce of the country,1 recommend to Congress such legisla- tion as may be necessary for the preservation of the leveesof the Mississippi river. [tis a matter of national importance that early steps should betaken not only to add to the efficiencyfof these barriers against destructive inundations, but for the removal of all obstructions to the free and safe navigation of that great channel of trade and commerce. The District ot Columbia, under existing lawe, is not entitled to that representation in the Nationa] Councils which, from our earliest history, bas been uniformly accorded to each Territory established trom time to time within our limits. It maintains peculiar relations to Congress, to whom the Constitution has grant- ed the power of exercising exclusive legtsia- ion over the seatof government. Our fellow- citizens residing in the District, whose interests are thus confided to the special guardianship of Congress, exceed in number the population of several of our Territories, and no jostreason is perceived why a delegate of their choice should not be admitted to a seat in the House of Representatives. No mode seems so appro- pee. and effectuai of enabling them to make nown their peculiar condition and wants, and of securing the local legislation adapted to them. | therefore recommend the passage of a Jaw authorizing the electors of the District of Columbia to choose a delegate, to be allowed the same rights and privileges as a delegate re- presenting a Territory. The increasing enter- prise and rapid ane eyed ot improvement in the District are highly gratifying and | trust that the efforts of the municipal authorities to promote the prosperity of the national metrop- olis will receive the efficient and generous co- operation of Congress. ‘The report of the Commissioner ef Agricul- ture reviews the operations of his department during the past year, and asks the aid of Con- gress im its efforts to encourage those States which, scourged by war, are now earnesily engaged in the reorganization of domestic in- dustry. it is a subject of congratulation tha: no for- eign combinations against our domestic peace and safety, or our legitimate influence among the nauons, haye been formed or attempted. While sentiments of reconciliatien, ieyalty, and patriotism have ivcreased at home, a more just consideration of our national character and rights has Leen manifesied by foreign na- tions The entire success of the Atlantic Télegraph between the coast of Ireland and the Province of Newfoundland, is an achieveme: t which bas been justly celebrated in both hemispheres as the opening of an era in the progress of civ- ization. There is reason to expect that equal success will attend, and even greater resuits follow, the enterprise for connecting the two continents through the Pacific Ocean by the projected line of telegraph between Kam- schatka and the Russian possessions in Amer- ica. The resolution of Congress protesting against pardons by foreign Governments of persons convicted of infamous oflences, on condition of @micration to our country. has been commani- cated to the States with which we maintain intercourse, and the practice, so justly the snb- ject Sr perinreint on our part, bas not been re- hewed. The congratulations of Gougress to the Em- peror of i@, Upon bis escape from at- tempted ssipation. have been presented to that humane and enlightened ruler, and re- ceived by him with expressions of grateful ap- preciation. The Executive, warned of an attempt by Spanish-American adventurers to indace the emigration of freedmen of the United States to aforeign coun‘ry, tested agaist the pro- ject as. one which, if consummated, would re- duee them to 4 bondage even more oppressive than that from which they bad just beer re- lieved, Assurance has been received from the Government of the State in which the plan was matured, that the proceeding will meet neither its encouragement nor approval. it is a question worthy of yous consideration, whether our laws upon this subject are ade- quate to the prevention or punishment of the crime thas meditated. In the month of April last. as Congress is arrangement was made be- iperor of France and the Presi- tof the United States for the withdrawal trom Mexico of the French expeditionary mil- itary forces. This withdrawal was to be ef- fected in three detachments, the first of which, it was understood, would leave Mexico in November, now past, the second in March next, and the third and last in November, 1867. Immediately ppon the completion of the evacuation, the nch Government was to assume the same attitude of non-interven- tion, in regard to Mexico, as is held by the Government of the United States. ated assurances have been ven by the Bayern since that agreement, he would complete the ere yess evacuation within the period mentioned, or sooner. it was reasonably expected that the proceed- ings thus contemplated would produce a crisis of great political interest in the blic of Mexico. The newly-appointed Minister of the United States, Mr. Campbell, was therefore sent forward, on the 9th day of November last, to assume his proper functions as Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States to that Republic. It was also thought expedient that be shonld be attended in the vicinity of Mexi- co by the Lieutenant General of the Army of the United States, with the view of obtaining such information as might be im it to de- termine the course to be pursued by. the United States in re-establishing and maintaining nec- essary and Tr intercourse with the Repub- lic of Mexico. Deeply interested in the cause of liberty and bumanity, it seemed an obvious duty on our part to exercise whatever influ- ence we pos-essed for the restoration and per- manent establishment in that country of a do mestic and republican form of government. Such was the condition of affairs in regard to Mexico, when, om the 22d of November last, oficial information was received from Paris that Be, Epparer. ot ce had some time be- fore decided hot to raw a detachment of his forces in the month of November past, ac+ cording to engagement, but that this decision was made with the p of withdrawing the whole of those forces in bet peg et Of tits determin - however, the United States not ved Any aotice or intima. tion; and, so soon a8 the information was re- quizes wy he Government, care was taken to make kno’ Franée. ’ ‘wn its dissent to the Emperor of i beer a pee hope that France wil recon: Tt ubject, and adopt some resolu. den in aise the eyacnation of Mexico which form mearty as practicable with the existin, a ty anatthus meet papers felaiing to ihe wbjot willbe Ind be rel " Toregou, Tt is medial, wis tae. e Bo subject for — aii between ig at inate a Iriendsbip ween two countries might in that case be renewed and parmsnenty Te: ‘A claim of a citizen of the N°. 4,287. Continent, sDall be agreed upon by the twe col Thes is not deemed un- ible, but it belongs to Congress to direct manner in which claims for indemnity by foreigners, as well as by citizens of the United States, arising out of late civil war, shall be adjudicated and determined. I have no doubt that the subject of allsuch claims will Cem year attention at @ convenient and proper time. ltis a matter of regret that no considerable advance has been made toward an adjustment ely at oe between oh fragt States ani Teat Britain, arising out depreda- tions upon our national commerce and other trespasses committed during our civil war by British subjects, in violation of Se Jaw and ot ee lay, how- ever, may be believed to have resulted in no small degree from the domestic situation of Great Britain. An entire change of ministry occurred in that country during the tast ses- sion of Parliament. The attention of the new Ministry was called to the subjectat an early day, and there is some reason to expect that it will now be corsidered in a becoming and friendly spirit. The tmportance of an early disposition of the question cannot be exagge- rated. Whatever might be the wishes of the two Governments, it is manifest that good will and friendship between the two countries cannot be established until a reciprocity, in the practice of good-faith and neutrality, shall be restored between the respective nations. Op the 6th of June last, in violation of our neutrality laws, a military expedition and en- terprise against the Britieh North American Colonies was projected and attempted to be carried on within the territory and ju- risdiction of the United States. “In obedience to the obligation imposed uporthe Executive by the Constitution, to fee that the laws are faithfully executed. all citizens were warned, by proclamation,against taking partin or aiding such unimwtful pro- ceedings. and the proper civil, military, and paval officers were directedto take all neces- fary Measures for the enforcement of the laws. The expedition railed, but it bas not been with- outits painful consequences, Some of our citizens who, it was alleged, were engaged in the expedition, were captured, and have been brought to trial, as for a capital offence, in the Province of Canada. Judgment and sentence of death have been pronounced against some, whale others Bave been acquitted. Fully be- heving in the maxim ef government, tha. se- verity of civil punishment for misguided per- sons who have engaged in revolutionary at- tempts which have disastrously failed. is un- sound and unwise. such representations have been made to the British Government, in be- half of the convicted persons, as, being sus- tained by an enlightened and humane judg- ment, will, it is hoped, induce in their cases an exercise of clemenvy, and a judicious amnesty toall who were engaged in the movement. Counsel has been empioyed by the Govern- ment to defend citizens of the United States on trial for capital offences in Cagada; and a dis- contmuance of the prosecutions which were instituted im the courts of the United States Against those who took part in the expedition, las been directed. I bave regarded the expedition as not only poliucal in its mature, but as aleo in a great measure foreign from the United States in its causes, character, and objects. The attempt Was understoed to be made in sympathy witu &n insurgent party m Ireland, and, by striking ata British Province on this Continent, was Cesigned to aid in - btaining redress for politi- cal grievances which, it was assumed. the people of lreland had suffered at the bande of the British Government during a period of several centuries. The persons engaged in it were chiefly natives of that country, some of whom bad, while others had mot, become citi- vens of the United States under our general Jaws of naturalization. Complaints of mis- fovernment in Ireland continually engage the attention of the British nation, and so great an agitation is DOW prevailing tn Lreland that the Sriush Government have deemed it neces to suspend the wait of habeas corpus im tha country. bese circumstances must neces- earily modify the opinion which we might otherwise have entertained im regard to an expedilion expressly prohibited by our po trality laws. So long as those laws remain Upon Oar statnte-books, they suould be faitu- fully executed, and if they operate narshty, Lnjustly, or oppressively, Congress alone can apply the remedy, by their modilicauon or repeal. Poiitical and commercial interests of the United States are not unlikely to be affected in some degree by events which are transpiring in the eastern regions of Europe, and the time seems to have come when our Government ought to buve @ proper diplomatic representa- tion in Greece. This Government has ciaimed for all per- s0n8 net convicted, or accused. or suspected of crime, an absolute political right of self-expa- triauion. and a choice of new national alie- ginnce. Moet of the European States have dissented from. this principle, and bave claimed a right to hold such of their subjects as bave immigrated to and been naturalized in the United States, and afterwards returned on transient visits to their native countries, to the performance of military service in like man- ner ns resident subjects. Complaints arising from the ciaim in this respect made py foreign States, have heretofore been matters of con- troversy between the United States and some of the European Powers, and the irri- tation consequent upon the failare to settle this question imecreased during the war im whieh Prussia, italy, and Austria were re- cently engaged. While Great Britain has never acknowledged the right of expatriation, she has net for some years past practically in- sisted upon the ite dectrine. France bas been equally f and Prussia has P & compromise, which, althongh evincing in liberality, has not been ac- cepted by the United States. Peace is now prevailing everywhere in Europe, and the present seems to be a favorable time for an as- sertion by Congress of the principle, so long maintained by the Executive mt, that naturalization by one State fully exempts the native-born subject of any other State from the performance of military service under any for- eign Government, so long as he does not yol- untarily Beceem its ri nny benefits. In the performance of a duty imposed upon me by the Constitution, I have thus submitted to the Representatives of the States and of tae Pp such information of our domestic and fo! fairsas the public interests seem to require. Our Government is now undergoing its Most trving ordeal, and my earnest prayer is, that the peril may be enccessfully ana Snails papene without impairing its original strength and symmetry. The interests oT the nation are best to be promoted by the re- vival of fraternal relations. the com- plete obliteration of our it differences, and the re-inauguration of all the pursuits of peace. Directing our efforts to the early accomplish- ment of these great ends, let us endeavor to reserve Larmony between the co-ordinate Jepartments of the Government, that each in its proper sphere may cordially co-operate with the rin securing the maintenance ot the Constitution, the preseryatior of the Union, and the perpetuity of Our iree institutions. ANDREW JOHNSON, Wasnincton, December 3, 1566. 208 REPORT OF Tae eccRETAgY OF Accompanying the message of the President to Congress to-day was the Annual Report of Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War, which is dated November iith, 1-66. The Sec- retary says: r- sbandment of the volunteer forces in.sers wice at the time the rebel armies surrendered; collecting the arms, ordnanee. anc military stores scattered over the vast theatre of war; the sale and disposition of unserviceable ma- terial; storing in arsenals, magazines, and de- ts that which might be used; settling and ad- justing ‘war claims; recruiting and organizing the regular army under the recent act: the es- tablishment of ts and garrisous on the'fton- tier and in the Indian couatry; testing the va- rious Ty idan ‘of breech loading small arme a: eapp tying hem tp ihe army; practical experimentsto destructive pow- er of projessie the comparative resisting ‘seaboard de- J armamen ‘and river im ‘the Administration o Seocdmem an bandoned -cone| th te Sperstionsof tee War, Leepartes vat doctug te oF infantry, da enlisted work of discharging and retarn- their bomes 1.034064 voluntesrs would leted within three months but ‘4 of retaining ip service part of torce. Past experience shows that, should y nationalemergency require a larger force is provided by the peace establisbm-at, be swiftly organized at least to full strengta of 4 million of men The reduction of the army bas been attended corresponding reduction of material and nebi 5 cgReEEER HEH as a g Fy i i vbya retre and the various plans for breech-loaders of the arms heretofore borne by ourtroops. This board on March 10, and continued in session until Jane 4, when its re- pert wee pace cee directions od been given the ordnance department for speedy manufacture of breech-londing arms. Ia view of the great number of small arms on band, it has been deemed advirable to convert Spring- field rfie-muskets, at a comparatively a cost, Into eMicrent breech.) Ts, rather than to incur the cost of tbe entire mannfacture of pew arms of that description, at a time two, when the inventon may not Bave been per- fee! This al'eration of the Springtieid m: ket bas been + flected so successfully as to ren der it sn arm believed to be betier im all re~ spects tben the Prussian needie. gon, while its Metallic ammupition is arded as eu to tbat of the later. The department bas already on hand breec a acders of Approved patterns adequate fer t ply of the cavairy, and mounted and |i; nfantry. The total estim f military appropriations for the fiscal year ending J une 30. 18%=, is $25,- 205,669 Gb he estimated appropriation re quired for the purposes of the Adjutant Gen- erals cffice is $300,100. The officers of the In- *pector General's Department are now those of the regular estabiisbment. No appropria- lion is required jor this service. No- farther appropriations are required for the regoiar service of the quarte:master’s department, ac itis believed that the balances now available, and the sums received and to be received, will suffice for the next fiscal year. For contin- gencies (be sum of S10,40 is requested. The total amount of money drawn from the Treas- ury and disbursed by the subsistence depart- ment during the past fiscal year was €7,51*,- 72.54, including payment of clams under the act of July 4, ist. No appropriation is re- quired forthe next fiscal year. Medical de- partment receipts amoun!' to $5,3°6,1646.24. Total disbursements during the $2,537,601.77; balance in Treasury Jun $2.546.457-14. The estimated appropriation re- quired for the medical department for the next fecal year ts $90,000. Theestimated appropri- ations of the pay department amount to $!7,- 728,500.60 for pay of the army for the next fis year, apd for the corps of engineers $5,140,000, The Urdnance Department now limits the operations at arsenals to the construction of ‘wrought-iron sea-const carriages, and such ordpance tupplhes s« are needed for immediate use, preservation of tbe ordnance stores leit on band atthe close of tbe war, breaking ap unserviceable ammunition; and completing unfinished builaings. Fire-proof workshops bave been completed at Watervliet, Frankford, and Allegheny arsenals; three magazines, with & capacity for storing 15.0W barrels of gun- powder, have been built and one of the «sme capi € arsenals at Washington City and Benicis. A board of officers is engaged in examining suit- able sites tor depositones of gunpowder, pro- vided ior by an appropriation of the jast ses- sion of Congress; and the erection of such Magazines #6 will farnish se and suitable storage for all our powder, Munition, and pitre will be commenced early next spring. The sreenals at the South which were seized by the rebels, having been retaken, are re- occupied, exeepting ihe North Carolina arse- nal, which was destroyed, the Harper's Ferry armory, 'be worksbop- of which were burned, ard which has been ueed as an ordnance depot, the arsenal in Florida, which has been trans- ferred temporarily to the freedmen’s burean, and the arsenal in Arkansas, which is occupied. by troops of the line. The Ohiet of Ordnance i+ of opinion that it is notadvisable to rebuild the Nortb Carolina arsenal, or to re-establish | the armory at Harper's Ferry, and the sale ot | botb is recommended. | t the Jastexammation the corps of cadets at the Military Academy numbered two har- Grea and twenty-eight members, and forty ca- Gets of the gradnating aes completed the course of studies and w: commissioned lieu- tenants im the army. ¢ esumated ation for tbe Military Academy In the Bu n of Refogees, | Abandoned Lands, the Commissioner reports that tbereis no material change of organiza- ton, but basicers is facilitated and vexed Questions settied by the law of Inié. Tae Ha- reau basa balance on hand for purposes of expenditure of $6,513,965.55, ana there is re- QUITE $3.530,300.00. In compliance with recent enactments of Congress, Commissioners tc assess the waiue of slayes enusted into the United States army during the war bave been appointed for Mis- souri, Mary land. Kentucky, and Tennessee. Freedmen and REPORT OF THE SECRETARY oF THE TREASURY. The apnval reportof the Secretary of the Treasury t= of the most gratifying character, as showing the financial strength of the coun- try. Te his report under date of the 4th of Decem- ber, 1864, the Secretary estimated, according to the da urnished bim by this Department and by the ether Departments, that the expen- ditures of the Government for the three guar- ters of tbe fiscal year end! June 30, 1966, would exceed the receipts $112,194,957.20. The result was widely different. The receipts ex- ceeded the estimates $>9,905,905.44: the - The Snare & statement Of receipts and eee the fiscal year ending Jane 1866 : Balance in agretable to warrants, July ), 1985.” $5.8, To which sidbeiabes of se) incl im the above (B55 .072.620 06 __ 1973 Expenditures, ~ aye of public éebt 9205178 ‘or the civil service... 41,055,951 5: For Pension and Indians 18,882,416 91 For the War Depart- . 284,469 701 “2 = 43,324,118 52 <-- MBS 067 741 69 —— 520780940 48 91.,141,0.2,506 09 Thefollowing statement exhibits tae jueme of increase and decrease of the public debt for the fiscal year ending June 30. in66: Andunt of public debt. June $), Reet 682,683 025 3 jount of cash ‘Treasury............ ‘858 $09 18 Amount of public debt. June 30, less cash tn Ti a of pul The Secretary says: “These statements are in the highest degree encouraging. They are conelusive evidence of the tees of our reson’ rdens, and the:r un wiiling- ness that this debt should be a perpetual in- cump?ance upon the country. “It is not expec‘ed. nor is it perhaps desina- ble, that the same rate of reduction should ve pal revenue law, at the last session of Con- } ae a A furtber auon of interual Modification the doubuess lead fo a reduction on many articles, will be required. that prodnetion may be increase: infused into certain branches of i ‘all the Derartments: enacted ahd contineed by Congres, and [CONTINUED ON POURTE. Pack)