The New York Herald Newspaper, December 4, 1844, Page 1

THE NEW YORK HERALD. Vol, X., No, 335=-Whole No. 3935. PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE. To the Senate and House of Representatives, of the United States. .. We have continued cause for expressing our gra- titude to the Supreme Kuler of the Universe for the bonefits and blessings which our country, under his kind Providence, has enjoyed during the past year. Notwithstanding the exciting scenes through which we have pete |, nothing has occurred to disturb the general or to derange the harmony of our political system. The great moral spectacle has been exhibited of a nation, approximating in num- ber to 20,000,000 of people, having performed the high and important function of electing their Chief Magistrate for the term of four years, without the commiseion of any acts of violence, or the manifestation of a spirit of insubordination to the laws. The great and inestimable right of euf- frage, has been exercised by all who were in- vested with it, under the laws of the different States, in a spirit dictated alone by a desire, in the selection of the, agent, to advance the interests of the country, and to place beyond jeopardy the institutions under which it is our happiness to live. That the deepest interest has been mani- fested by all our countrymen in the result of the election, is not Jess true, than highly creditable to them. Vast multitudes have aseembled, fromtime to time, at various places, for the purpose of can- vassing the merits and pretensions of those who were peed for their suflrages; but no armed soldiery as been necessary te restrain, within r limite, the popular zeal, or to prevent violent outbreaks. A principe much more controlling was found in the jove of order and obedience to the laws which, with mere individual exceptions, every where possesses the American mind, and controls withan influence far more powerful than hosts of armed men. We cannot dwell upon this picture without recognisin, in it thatdeep and devoted attachment on the part of the people, to the institutions under. which we live, which proclaims their perpetuity: The great objec- tion which has always prevailed against the election, by the people, of their Chief Executive officer, has been the apprehension of tumults and disorders, which mightinvolve in ruin the entire Government. A security against this is found not only in the fact before alluded to, but in the add fact, that we live under q cuntederacy embracing already twenty-six States; no one of which has power to control the election. "The popniar vote in each State is taken at the time appointed by the laws, and such vote is announced by the Electoral Col- lege, without reference to the decision of the oth- er States. The right of suffrage, and the mode of conducting the election, js regulated by the laws of each State; and the election 1s distinctly federa- tive in all its prominent features, Thus it is that, unlike what might be the reeults under a consoli- dated system, riotous proceedings, should they pre- vail, could enlycsiieey the elections in single States, without disturbing, to any. dangerous extent, the tranquillity of others. e great experiment of a political confederacy—each member of which is supreme—as to dil matters appertaining to its lecal interests, and its internal peace and happinese— while by a voluntary compact with others, it confides to the united power of all, the pro- tection of its citizens, in matters not domes- tic—has been so far crowned with complete success. The world has witnessed its rapid growth in wealth and Population 5 and,‘under the guide and direction of a euperintending Providence, the developments of the past may be regarded but as the shadowing forth of the mighty future. In the bright prospects of that future, we shall find, as triots and phflanthropists, the highest inducements to cultivate and cherish a love of union, and to frown down every measure or effort which may be made to alienate the States, or the people of the States, in sentiment and feeling, trom each other. A rigid and close adherence to the terms of our political compact, and, above all, a sacred obser- vance of the guaranties of the Constitution, will preserve union on a foundation which cannot be shaken ; while personal liberty is placed beyond hazard or jeopardy. The guarantee of religious freedom, of the freedom of the press, of the liber. ty ot speech, of the trial by jury, ot the habeas corpus, and of the domestic institutions of each of the States—leaving the A bers citizen in the full exafvise of the highrand ennobdbaguttributes of his nature,and to each State the privilege which can on- ly be judiciously exerted by itself, of consulting the means best calculated to advance its own happi- nese; there are the great and important guarantees ot the Constitution, which the lovers of liberty must cherizh,and the advocates of union must ever cultivate. Preserving these, and avoiding all inter- polations by forced construction, under the guise of an imagined expediency, upon the Constitution, the influence of our political system is destined to be as actively and as beneficially felt on the distant shores of the Pacific, as it is now on those of the Atlantic Ocean. The only formidable impediments in the way of its successful expansion (time and space) fare so far in the progress of modification, by the improvements of the age, as to render no longer speculative the ability of Representatives from that remote region to come up to the capitol, so that their constituents shall participate in all the benefits of Federal legislation. Thus it is, that inthe progress of time, the inestimable principles of civil liberty will be ehisyes by millions yet un- born, and the great benefits of our system of go- yerament be extended to now distant and uninhab- ited regions. In view of the vast wilderness yetto be reclaimed, we may well invite the lover of free- dom, ot every land, to take up his abode among us, and assist us in the great work of advancing the standard of civilization, and giving a wider spread togthe arts and refinements of cultivated life. Our prayers should evermore be cffered upto the Father of the Universe for his wisdom to direct us in the path of our duty, so as to enable us to consummate these high purposes. Tea One of the strongest objections which has been urged against confederacies, by writers on Govern- ment, is, the liability of the members to be tamper- ed with by foreign Governments, or the people of foreign States, either in their local affairs,or in such as afiected the peaog of ethers, or eudangered the safety of the whole Confederacy. We cannot hope to be entirely exempt from such attempts on our pence und safety. The United States are becom- Ing too important in population and resources not to attract the observation of other nations. It, therefore, may, ia the progress of time, occur that opinions éntirel} abstract in the States in which they may prevail, and in no degree affecting their domestic institutions, may be artfully, but secretly, encouraged with a view to undermine the Unio Such opinions may become the foundation ot po: ucal parties, until at last, the conflict of opinion, producing an alienation of friendly feeling among the people of the different States, may involve in one general destruction the happy institutions under which we live. Itshould ever be borne in mind, that what is true in regard to individuals, is equally so in regard to States. An interference of one in the affairs of another 18 the fruitiul source of fami- ly dissensions and neighborhood disputes; and the same cause effects the peace, happiness and pros- perity of States. It may be most devoutly hoped that the good genee of the American people will ever be ready to repel all such attempts, should they ever be made. q : Z ‘There has been no material change in our foreign relations since my last annual messege to Congrees. With all the powers of Europe we continue on the most friendly terms. Indeed, it affords me much satisfaction to state, that at no former period has the peace of that enlightened and important quarter of the globe ever been, apparently, more fivmly established. The conviction that peace is the truly policy of nations, would seem to be grow. ing and becoming deeper amonget the enlightened “everywhere; and there is ae who have a e stronger interest in cherishing the entiments, and adopting the meaus of preserving and giving it per- manence, than those of the United States.— Amonst these, the first and most effective ure, no doubt, the‘strict observance of justice, and the ho- nest and punctual fulfilment ot ell engagements, But it is not to be forgotten that, in the present state of the world, it is fio lesa necessary to be ready to enforce their observance ard fulfilment, iw refes rence to ourselves, than to observe and fulfil them, ou our part, in regard to others. _ be Since the close of your last session, a negotiation has been formally eniered upon between the Secre+ tary of State und Her Britanic Majesty’s yeadig Plenipotentiary and Envoy Extraordinary residin at Washington, relative to the rights of their r spective nations in and over the Oregon territory, ‘hat negotiation is still pending. Should it, during your seesion, be brought toa definitive conclusion, the result will be promptly communicated to Co: gress, I would, however, again call your attentio! to the recommendations co in preyjous messages, designed to protect and facilitate emi- gration to that Territory. The establishment of inilitary posts at suitable yous upon the intended line of jand travel, would enable our citizens to migrate in comparative safety to the fertile regions below the falls of the Columbia, and make the pro- vision of the existing convention for the joint o¢- cupation ot the nesrLeney by subjects of Great Brita.n, and the citizens of the United States, mote available than heretofore to the latter. ‘These posts would continue places of rest for the wea: emigrant, where he would be eheltered secur: against the danger of attack trom the Indians, and NEW YORK, WEDNESDAY MORNING, DECEMBER 4, 1844. be enabled te recover from the exhaustion of long line of travel. Legislative enactments should also be made which eegis of our laws, 80 as to afford protection to his erson and property when he shall have reached distant home. ‘In this latterrespect, the British Government has been much more careful of the interests of such of her people as are to be found in that country, than the United States. She has made necessary provision for their security ano protection against the acts of the viciously disposed and lawless; and her emigrant reposea in safety under the panoply of her laws. Whatever may be the result of the pending negotiation, such mea- suresare necessary. It will afford me the greatest pleasure to witness a happy and favosable termina- ion to the existing negouation, upon terms com- patible with the public honor; and the best efforts of the Government will continue to be directed to this end. ._ It would have given me the highest gratification, in this, my last annual communication to Congrees, to have been able to announce to you the coniplete and entire settlement and adjustment of other mat- ters in difference between the Unite’ States and the Government of Her Britannic Majesty, which were adverted to in a previous: meesage. It is 80 obviously the interest of both countries, in respect to the large and vatuable commerce which exists between them, that all causes of complaint, how- ever inconsiderable, should be, with the greatest promptitude, removed—that it must be regarded as @ause of regret, that any unnecessary delayashould be permitted to intervene. It is true that, in a pe- cunijaty point of view, the matters alluded to, are, altogether, insignificant in amount, when coi. pared with the ample. resources of that great na- ion ; but they, nevertheless, more particularly that limited class which arise under seizures and deten- tions of American ships on the coast of Atrica, upon the mistaken supposition indulged in, at the time the wrong was committed, of their being en- gaged in the slave-trade—deeply aflect the sen- sibilities of this Gevernment and Pecple. Great ritain having recognized her responsibility to re- fat all such wrongs, by her action in other cases, leaves nothing to be Ad oe upon this subject, as | cases prior to the Treaty o Washington, than the delay in making suitable reparation in such ef them as fall plainly within the Cran ne of others, which she has long since adjusted. The injury in- flicted by delays in the settlement of these claims, fall with severity upon the individual claimants, and makes a strong appeal:to her magnanimity and sense of justice for a speedy settlement. Other matters, arising out of the construction of existing treaties, also remain unadjusted, and will continue to be urged upon her attention. The labors of the joint committee appointed by the two Governments to run the dividing line, es- tablished by the Treaty of Washington, were, un- fortuuately much delayed in the commencement of the season, by the tailure ot Congress, at the last session, to make a timely appropriation of funds to meet the expenses of the American party, and by other causes. The United States Commis sioner, however, expresses his expectation that, by increased diligence und energy, the party will be able to make up for lost time. We continue to receive assurances of the most friendly feelings on the part of all the other Euro- pean powere; with each, and all of whom, it is so obviously our interest to cultivate the most amica- ble relations. Nor can I aatichats the occurrence of any event which would be likely, in any degree, to disturb those relations. Ruesia, the great north- ern power, under the judicious sway ot her Emper- of, 18 constantly advancing in the road of science and improvement; while France, guided by the councils of her wise sovereign, pursues a course calculated to consolidate the general peace. Spain has obtained a breathing spell of some duration from the internal convulsions which have, through ‘go many years, marred her prosperity; while Aus- tria, the Netherlands, Prussia, Belgium, and the other powers of Europe, reap a rich harvest of bleseings from the prevailing peace. s informed the two Houses ot Congress in my message of December last, that instructions had been given to Mr. Wheaton, our Minister at Berlin, to negotiate a treaty with the Ge:manic States nee ing the Zoll Verein, if it could be done—stipulating, as far as it wes practicable to ac- complish it, fora reduction of the heavy und oner- ous duties levied on our tobacco, and other leading articles of agricultural production; and yielding in return, on our part a reductioa of duties on such ar- ticles, the production of their industry, as should not come into competition, or but a limited one, with articles the product of our manufacturing industry. The Executive, in giving such instructions, con- sidered itself as acting in strict conformity with the wishes of Congress, as made known through several measures which it had adopted, all di- tected to the accomplishment of this important re. suit. The treaty was, therefore, negouated ; by which essential reductions were secured in the duties levied by the Zoll Verein, on tobacco, rice and lard, accompanied by a stipulation for the ad- mission of raw cotton, free of duty. {n exchange for which highly important concessions, a reduc- tion of duties, imposed by the laws of the United States on a variety of articles, most of which were admitted free of all duty under the act of Con- gress commonly known’as the Compromise Law, and but few ot which were produced in the Uni- ted States, was stipulated for on our part. This treaty was communicated to the Senate at an ear- ly day of its last session, butnot acted upon until near its close; when, for the want,as I am bound to presume, of full time to coneiderit, it was Jaid upon the table. This procedure had the etiect of virtually rejecting it,in consequence of a stipula- tion contained in the treaty, that its ratifications should be exchanged on or betore a day which has already passed. The Executive, acting upon the fair interence that the Sen, te did not intend its absolute rejection, gave instructions to our Min- ister at Berlin to re-open the negociation, so far as to obtain an extension of time for the exchunge of ratifications. I regret, however, to say that lus efforts in this respect have been unsuccessful. 1 am nevertheless not without hope that the great advantages which were intended to be secured by the treaty, may yet be realised. f lam happy to inform you that Belgium has, by an * arréte royale,” issued in July last, assimilated the flag ot the United States to her own, go far as the direct trade between the two countries is con- cerned. This measure will prove of great service to our shipping interest; the trade having heretofore been carried on chiefly in foreign bottoms. 1 flatter myeelf that ehe will speedily resort to a modifica- tion of her system relating to the tobacco trade, which would decidedly benefit the agriculture of the United States, and operate to the mutual ad- vantage of both countries. i No definitive intelligence has yet been received from our Minister, ot the conclusion of a treaty with the Chinese Empire; but enough is known to induce the etrongest hopes that the mission will be crowned with success. : .With Brazil our relations continue on the most friendly footing. The commercial intercourse bi tween that growing Empire and the United States, is becoming daily of greater importance to both ; ana it is the interest of both tnat the firmest rela. tions of emity and good will should continue to be cultivated between them. The Republic of New Grenada still withholds, notwithstanding the most persevering efforts have been employed by our Charge ’d Affaires, Mr Blackford, to produce a different result, indemnity in the case of the brig “Morris” And the Con- gress of Venezuela, ape @n aarangemeut has been effected between our Minister and the Minis- ter of Foreign Affairs of that Government, for the payment of $18,000, in discharge of its liabilities in the same case, has altogether neglected to make provision for its payment. It is to be hoped that a sense of justice will soon induce a settlement ot these claims. _ a Our late Minister to Chili, Mr. Pendleton, hasre. turned to the United States, without having eflect- ed an adjustment in the second claim of the Mace: donian, which 1s delayed ongrounds altogether fri+ volous and untenable. Mr. Pendleton’s successor has been directed to urge the claim inthe strongest terms; and, in the event of a failure to obta: permanent adjustment, to report the fact to the Ex- ecutive al as early a day as possible, so that the whole matter may be communicated to Congress, At your last session, J submitted to the attention of Congress, the Convention with the Republic of Pera, of the 17th of March, 1841, providing for the adjnatment of the claims of citizens of the United States against that Republic ; but no defi titive ac- tion taken upon the subject. I again invite to it your (tention and prompt action. nmy last Annual Message, I {elt «it to be m: dury to make known to Congress, in terms bo plain and emphatic, my opimion in regard to the war which has so long existed between Mexico and Texas; which, since the battle of San Jacinto has consisted altogether of predatory incursions, attended by circumstances revolting to itr ea I repeat now, what I then said, ¢ i hd of, feeble und ineffeotaaledtat soarateet T exas, it was time that the war should have ceased. The United States had a direct interest in the question. The ontiguity of the two na- sr Me Tage territory Mi but too well calculated involve our peace. Unjust suspicions w * gender in the mind of one or the other of the belli Serents against us; and, asa necessary Connequence, | American interests were made to suffer, our peace became daily endangered. In adi ‘ould spread over him the | to which, it must have been obvious to all, that the exhaustion produced by the war, subjected both Mexico and Texas to the interference of other powers, which, withc ut the interposition of this Government, might eventuate in the most serivus injury to the United States. Thi goverment, from time to time, exerted its diy offices to bring about a termination of hostilities upon terms honorable alike to both the beiligerents. Its efforts in this behalf proved unavailing. Mexico seemed, almost without an object, to persevere in the war, and no other alternative was fevt the Executive but to take advantage of the well known dispositions of Texas, and to invite herto enter intoa treaty for annexing her territory to that of the United States, Since your lastsessior, Mexico has threatened to renew the war, and has either made, or proposes to make, formidable preparations for invading Tex- as. She has issued decrees and proclamations, pre- paratory to the commencemen: of hostilities, full of threars, revolting to humanity; and which, if carried into efleet, would arouse the attention of all Christendom. This new demonstration of feeling, there is too much reason to believe, has been pro- duced in consequence of the negotatiion of the late treety of annexation with Texas. The Executive, therefore, cculd not be indifferent to such proceed- ings; and it felt it to be due, as well to itself as to the honor of the country, that astrong representa- tion should be made tothe Mexican Government upon the subject. This was accordingly done, as will be seen by the copy ot the accompanying de- maint from the Secretary of State to the United States Envoy at Mexico. Mexico has no right to jeopard the peace of the world by urging any !on- er, a uscless end fruitless contest. Such a con- ‘ition of things would not be tolerated on the European continent. Why should it be on this? A war of desolation, such as is now threatened by Mexico, cannot be waged without involving our peace and tranquillity. It is idle to believe that such a war could be looked upon with indifference by our own citizens, inhabiting adjoining States; and our neutrality would be violated, in despite ot all efforts on the part of the Government to prevent it. |The country is settled by emigrants from the United States, under invitations held out to them by Spainand Mexico. Those emigrants have lett behind them friends and relatives who would not tail to sympathise with them in their difficulties, and who would be led by those sympathies to pat. ticipate in their struggles, however energetic the action of Government to prevent it. Nor would the numerous and formidable bands of Indians, the most warlike to be tound in any land, which occu- py the extensive regions contiguous to the States of Arkansas and Missouri, and who are in posses- sion of large tracts of country within the limits of Texas, be likely to remain passive. The inclina- tion of those numerous tribes lead them invariably to war whenever pretexts exist. Mexico had no just ground of displeasure agaizst this government or people for negociating the trea- ty. hat interest of hers was affected by the treaty? She was despoiled of nothing, since ‘Texas was forever lost toher. ‘The independence of Texas was recognised by several ot the lead- ing powers of the earth. She was free to treat— tree to adopt her own line of policy—free to take the course which she believed was best calculated to secure her happiness, Her government and peo- ple decided on annexation to the Ugited States; and the Executive saw, in the acquisition of such a territory, the means of advancing their perma- nent happiness and glory. What principle of good faith then was violated? what rule of political mo- rals trampled under foot? So far as Mexico _her- self was concerned, the measure should have been regarded by her as highly beneficial. Her inabili- ty to reconqner Texas had been exhibited, I re- peat, by eight, now nine, years ot fruitless and ruinous contest. {nthe meantime, Texashaz been growing in population and resources. Emigration has flowed into her territory, from all parts of the world, in a current which continues to increase in strength. Mexico requires a permanent boundary between that young republic and hcrself. Texas, at no distant day, if she continues separate nud de- tached from the United States, willinevitably seek to consolidate her strength by adding to her domain the conuguous provinces of Mexico, The spirig of revolt from the control of the Central Government has, heretofore, manifested itself in some of those rovioces; aud it is fair to infer that they would be inclined to take the first favorable opportunity to proclaim their independence, and to form close alliances with Texas. ‘The war would thys be endless; or, if cessations of hostilities should oc- cur, they would only endure for a season. The interests of Mexico, therefore, could in nothing be, better consulted than in a peace with her neighbors, which would result in the establishment ot a permanent boundary. Upon the ratitication of the treaty, the Executive was prepared to treat with heron the most liberal basis. Hence the boundaries of Texas were leit undefined by the treaty. The Executive prsposed tosettle these up- on terme that all the world should have pronounced just and reasonuble. No negociation upon that ooint could have been undertaken between the United States and Mexico, in advance of the ratifi- cation of the treaty. We should have had no right— no power—uo authority, to have conducted such a fegociation; and to have undertaken it, would have been an assumption equally revolting to the pride of Mexico and Texas, and subjecting us to the charge of arrogance : while to have proposed in advance of annexation, to satisfy Mexico for any contingent interest she might have in Texas, would have been to have treated Texas, not as an independent power, but asa mere dependency ot Mexico. Ths assumption couid not have been acted on by the Executive, without setting at defiance your own solemn declaration that that Republic was an independent Siate. Mexico had, it ig true, threatened war against the United States in the event the Treaty of Annexation was ratified. The Executive could not permit itself to be infla- enced by this threat. It represented in this, the spirit of our people, who are ready to sacrifice much for peace, but nothing to intimidation. A war, under any circumstances, is greatly to be de- plored, and the United States is ihe last nation to desire it; but if, as the condition of peace, it be required of usto forego the unquestionable right of treating with an independent power, of our own Continent, upon matters highly interesting to both, and that upon a naked and unsustained pretension of claim by ‘athird power, to contro! the free- will of the power with whom we treat—devoted as we may be to peace, and anxious to cultivate friendly relations with the whole world, the Exe- cutive does not hesitate to say that,the people of the U. States would be ready to brave ail consequences, sooner than submit to such condition. But no apprehension of war was entertained by the Exe- cutive; and { must express frankly the opinion that, had the treaty been ratified by the Senate, it woul have been tollowed by a prompt settlement, to the entire satisfaction of Mexico, of every matter in difference between the two countries. Lonnls Mo that new preparations for hostile invasion of Texas were about to be adopted by Mexico, and that these ye brought about because Texas has adopted the suggestions of the Executive be ny the subject of Annexation, it could not passively have folded its arms and permitted a war, threatened to be accompanied by every act that could mark a barbarous age, to be waged against her, because she had done so. Other considerations of acentrolling character influ enced the course of the Executive. The treaty which had thua been negotiated, had failed to receive the rat fi- cation of the Senate, One of the chiet objections which were urged inst it, was found to copsist io the fact that the question of annexation had not been submitted to the orueal of public opinion in the United States. How- ever untenable such an objection was esteemed to be, in view of the unquestionable power of the Executive to Negotiate the treaty, and the greut and ig interests involved in the question, I telt it to be my duty to submit the whole subject to Congress as the best expounders of popular sentiment. No defin tive action having been taken on the subject by Congress, the question referred itself directly to the decision 01 the States and the People. The great popular election which hiy just terminated, afforded the beat opportunity of ascertaining the will of the States and people upon it. Pending that issue, it became the imperative duty of the Executive te inform Mexico that the question of annexation was stiil before the American People, and that, until ‘heir decision was pro- nounced, any serious invasion of Texas would be regard ed as an attempt to forestall their judgment, and could not be looked upon with indifference, [ am most happy Yo inform you that no such invasion has taken place, and ( trust that, whatever your actioa may be upon it, Mexi co will see the importance of deciding the matter by a re- sort to peaceiul expedients, in preference to those ot arma, The decision of the people and the States, on this great aud interesting subject, has been decisively manifested, The question of annexation has been presented nakedly to their consideration. By the treaty 1iself, all collateral and incidental issues, which were calculated to divide and distract the public councils, were carefully avoided. These were Jeftto the wisdom of the fnture to determine. It presented,1 repeat, the isolated question of annexation ; and in that form it has been submitted to the ordeal of public sentiment. A controlling majority of the people, and a large majority of the States, have declared in favor of immediate ennexation. Instructions have thus come up to both branches of Congress, from their respective constituents, in terms the most emphatic. It js the will of both the people and the States, that Tcxas shall be an- nexed to the Usiion promptly and immediately. It may behoped that, in carrying into execution the public will, collateral issues beevoided. Fu thus declared, all Why States which should be formed out of the territory, when ture Legislatures can best decide es the time has arrived for deciding that question. So.with allothers. By the treaty the United States assumed the parpest of the debis of Texas to an amount not exceed- $10,000,000, to be paid, with the exception of a sum fh 1B short of $400,000, exclusively out ot the proceeds ofthe sales of her public lands. We could not, with ho nor, take the lands, without assuming the full payment of all incumbrances npon them. Botting. hus occurred singe your last session to induce a doubt that the dispositions of Texas remain unaltered. No intimation of an altered determination, on the part of her Governmentand People, has been furnished to the Executive. She still desues tothrow herself under the protection of our laws, and to partake of the blessings of our federativesystem; while every American interest would seem to require it. The extension of our coast- wise and foreign trade, to an amount almost incalculable —the enlargement of the market for our manufactures. constantly growing market for our agricultural produc- tions—safety to our frontiers, and additional strength and stability to the Union—these are the results which would rapidly develope themselves, upon the consum- mation of the measure of annexation. In such event, ! wail not doubt but that Mexico would find her true inter- est to consist in meeting the advances of this Govern- ment ina spirit of amity. Nor dof apprehend any serious complaint from any other quarter; no suflicient ground exists for such com- plaint, We should interfere in no respect with the rights of avy other nation. There cannot be gathered from the act, any design on our part to do so with their possessions on thisCuntiment. We have interposed no impediments in the way of such acquizitions of territory, large and ex- tensive a3 many of thom are, as the leading powera ot Europe have made, from time totime, in every part of the world. We kno conquest made by wer. No in- trigue will have been resorted to, or acts of diplomacy essayed, to accomplish the annexation of Texas. Free and independent herself, slic asks to be received into our Union. It is a question fer our own decision, whether she shall be received or not. The two Governments having already agreed, through their respective organs, on tue terms of annexation, | would recommend their jon by Congress in the form of a joint resolution, or act, Ligh every and made binding on the two countries, when adopted in like man- ner by the Government of Texes. In order that the subject may be fully presented in all its bearings, the correspondence which has taken place, in reference to it, since the adjourunent of Cougress, be- tween the United States, Texus and Mexico, is herewith transmitted, The amendments proposed by the Senate to the Conven- tion concluded between the United States and Mexico on the 20th of November, 1843, have been transmitted through our Minister, for the concurrence of the Mexican Govern- ment; but, although urged thereto, no action has yet beemhad on the subject ; nor has any answer been given which would authorize a tavorable conclusion in the fu- ture The Decree of September, 1843, in relation to the retan trade, the order for the ex; ulsion of foreigners, and that of amore recent date in regard to passporis—all of which are considered as in violation of the ‘Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the two countries, have led to a cor- Pan oermeg of considerable length between the Minister for Forrign Relations and our lepresentative at Mexico, but without any satistactory result. They remain still unadjusted; and many und serious inconveniences have already resulted to out citizens in consequence of them. Questiuns growing out of the actof disarming a body of Lexian troops under the command of Major Snively, by an officer in the service of the United States, acting under the orders of our governient, and the forcible en- try into the Custom-house at Bryarly’s Landing, on Red River, by certain citizens of the United States, and taking away therslrom the goods seized by t ‘ollector of the Cusioms, ag forfeited under the laws uf Texas, have been adjusted, so far as the powers of the Executive extend. The correspondence between the two governments, in reference to both subjects, will be found amongst tle ac- compenying documents. It contains a statement of all the facts and circumstances, with the v: laken on both sides,and the principles on which the questions have been adjusted. It remains for Congress to make the necessary @ppropriation to carry the arrangement into effect, which I respectfully recommend. The greatly improved condition of the Treasury, af- fordsa subject for general congratulation. ihe para- lysis which had fallen on trade and commerce,and which subjected the Government to the necessity of resorting to loans, and the issue of Treasury notes, to a large amount, passed away, and aiter the payment of up- wards of $7,0,000, on account of he interest, and in redemption of more than $6,000,000 of tho public debt, which {alls duc on the Ist of January next, and setting apart upwards of ¢2,000,000 tor the payment of outstand- ing Treasury notes, aud meeting an instalment of the debts of the corporate cities of the District ot Columbia —an ostimated surplus of upwards $7,000,000 over and above the existing appropriations, will remain in the Treasury atthe close ot the fiscal year. Should the Treasury notes coutinue outstanding, as heretofere, that surplus will be considerably augmented. Although all interest hus ceased upea them, and the Goveroment has iuvited their return to the Treasury, yet they remain outstanding: affording great fucilities to commerce, and establishing the fact, that, under a well-regulated system of finance, the Government has resources within itself, which render i: independent in time of need, not ouly of private loans, but also of bank facilities, ‘The only remaining subject of regret is, that the re- maining stocks of the government do not fall due at on earlier day; since their redemption would be entirely within its coutrol. Asitis, it may be well worthy the consideration of Congress, whether the law establishing the sinking fund—under the operation of which the debts of the Revolution and last war with Great Britain were, to a great extent, extinguished—should not, with proper modifications, (so as to prevent an accumulation of sur- and limited in smount to a specific sum,) be re- . Such provision, which wouid authorise the go- vernment to go into the market for a purchase of its own stock, on fair terms, would serve to maintain its credit at the highest point, and prevent, to a great extent, those fluctuations in the price of its secunties; which might, under other circumstances, sffect its credit. No appre hensionof this sort is,atthia moment, entertained; since the stocks of the government which but two yearsago were offered for sale to capitalists, at home and abroad, at a depreciation, and could find no purchasers, are now greatly above par in the hands of the holders; but a wise and prudent forecast admonishes us to place beyond the reach of contingency the public credit. Jt must also be a matter of unmingled gratification, that, under the existing financial system, resting upon the act of 1789, and the resolution of 1816, the curren ot the attained a state of perfect soundne:s ind the ‘change between different parts of the Union, 1541, denoted, by their enormous amount, the greet depreciation, and in fact worthlessuesa of the cur- rency in most of the States,are now reduced to little more than the mere expense of ‘transporting specie from place to place, and the risk incidental to the operation. In a new country’ like that of the U. States, where so many induce- ments are held out for speculation, the depositories of the surplus revenue, consisting of Banks of any description, when jt reaches any considerable amount, require the closest vigilance on the part of the Government. All bank- ing institutions, under whatever denomination they may pass,are governed by an almost exclusive regard to the in terest of the steckholders. That interest consists inthewvg- mentation of profits, in the form of dividends, and a lage surplus revenue entrusted to their custody is but too apt to lead to excessive lonns and to extravagantly large is- sues of paper. As a nece:sary consequence, prices are nominally increased, and the speculative mania every. where seizes upon the public mind. A fictitious state of prosperity for a season exists ; and in the language of the day, money becomes plenty, Contracts are entered into by individuals, resting on this unsubstantial state of things, but the delusion speedily passes away, and the country is overrun by an indebtedness so weigh’y as to overwhelm many, and to visit every department of induc- try with great and ruinous embarrassment. The greatest vigilance becomes necessary on t! rt of Government to guard against this state of thin; The depositories must be given vistinctly to understand that the favors of the Government will be altogether withdrawn, or sub- stantially diminished, if its revenues shall be regorded as additions to their banking eapital, or as the foundation of an enlarged circulation. The Government, through its reventie has, at all times, an important part to periorm in connexion with the currency ; and it greatly dependa upon its vigiunce und care, whether the country be in volved in embarraysmenta eimilar to those which it has had recently toencounter ; or, aided by the action of the ‘Treasury, shall be preserved in a sound and healthy con ation. The dangers to be guorded ogainst are greatly aug- mented by too large a surpius of revenue When that surplus greatly 3 in amount what shall be required by a wise and prudent forecast to meet unforseen contin. gencies, the Legislature itself may come to be serzed with a disposition to mndulge in extravegant Siti coas to objects, mavy of which mey, and most probably would be found to conflict with the Constitution. A fancied ex; diency is elevated above constitutional authority ; and a reckless and wasteful extravagance but too certainly tol lows. The important power of taxation, which, when ex ercised in its most restricted form, is a burden on labor and production, is resorted to, under various pretexts, for purposes having no affinity to the motives which dictated ita grant, and the extravagance of Govern- ment stimulates individual extravegance, until the spirit of a wild and illregulated speculation, involves one and all in its unfortunate results, In view of such fatal consequences, it may be laid down as an axiom, founded in moral and political truth, that no greater taxes should be impored than are necessary foran economical administration of the government, and that whatever exists beyond should be reduced or modified. This doctrine does in no way conflict with the exercise of a crimination in tiie selection of the articles to be taxed, whieh ie rd to the public weal would at all times suggest te the legislative mind. It leaves th range of ton undefined, and such selection ald always be made with to the great interests of the country. Composed os is the Union, of separate and in- dependent States, a patriotic legislature will not fail in consulting the interesta of the ports, to adept such course as will be best calculated to advance the harmony of the whole, and thas ensure that pemmnency in the policy of the government without which all efforts to advance the public prosperity are vain and fruitles vitally important rests with Cong! This great ond sand the Execu- at tive ean do no more than recommend the general princi+ ples which should govern in its execution. 1 refer you to the report of the Secretary of War, for an exhibition of the condition of the army ; and recommend to you, as well worthy your best consideration, many of thé suggestions it contains. The Secretary in no degree exaggerates the great importence, of pressing forwerd, without delay, in the work of erecting and finishing the fortifications, to which he particularly ailuces. uch has been done towards placing our cities and roadsteads in a state of security against the hazards of hostile attack, within the last four years; but considering the new ele ments which have been, of late years, employed in the propelling of ships, and the formidable implements of de Price Two Cents. struction which hove been brought into service, we can- not be'too active or vigilant. in preparing and perfecting the means of defence. | refer you, also, to hie report for a full statement of the condition of the Indian tribes within our jurisdiction. The Executive has abated no effort in carrying into effect the well-estabiished policy of the Government, which contemplates a removal of all the tribes residing within the limits of the several States, be- yond those limits ; and it is now enabled to congratulate thecountry at the prospect of an early consummation of this object Many of the tribes have already made great progress in the arts of civilized life; and through the operation of the schools established umong them, aided by the efforts of the pious men of various reli- gious denomination: ‘ho devote themsclves to the task of their improvement—we may fondly hope that, mains of the formidable tribes which were once the mas- ters of this country will, in their transition from the sa- vage state, to a condition of refiriement and cultivation, aad another bright trophy to adorn the labors of a well altogether philanthropy. ; The accompanying ieport ef the Secretary of the Navy willexplain to you the eituation of that ‘branch of the service. ‘he present organization of the Department, imparts to its operations great efficiency; but 1 concur fully in the propriety of a division ofthe Bureau of Con- struction, Equipment and bn gang into two bureaur. ‘The subjects, as now arranged, ure incopgruour, and re- quire, to a certain extent, information and qualifications already dissimilar. ‘The operations of the squadron on the coast of Africa have been conducted with ull due attention to the object Which led to its organization; and T um happy to sy that the officers and crews have enjoyed the best possible health under the system adopted ‘by the officer in com- mand. It is believed the United States is the ouly nation which has, by ita laws, subjected to the punishment of death, as pirates, those who may be engaged in the slave trade. A similar cnactment onthe part of other nations would not fail to be attended by beneficial results. In consequence of the ditficulties which have existed in the wuy of securing titles for the necessary grounds, o erations have not yet been commenced towards the esta lishment of th wy Yard at Memphis. So soon as the title is perfected, no further delay will be permitted to in- tervene. It is well worthy of your consideration, whe- ther Congress should not direct the establishment of a , in connection with the contemplated Navy rope-wa: Yard, asa measure notonly of economy, but as highly useful and necessary, ‘The only establishment of the sert now connected with the service is located at Boston ; and the advantages of a similar establishment, convenient to the hemp growing region, must be apparent to all. ‘The report of the Secretary presents other matters to your conaideration, of an important character in connec- tion with the service. E Inreferring you to the accompanying report of the Postmaster General, it effords me continued cause of gra- tification to be able to advert to the fact, that the affairs of the Department, for the last four years, have been 0 cmmducted an, Srom ite unaided resources, to meat ite large expenditures. n my coming into office a debt of nearly $000,000 existed against the Department, which Cougress dischurged by an appropriation trom the Trea- sury. The Department, on the din of March next, will befound, under the management of the present efficient head, tree of debt or embarrassment, which could only have beendone by the observance and practice of the greatest vigilance and economy. ‘The laws have con- templated, throughout, that the Department should be ‘self-sustained ; but itmay become necessary, with the wisest regard to public interests,to introduce amend menté andalterations in the system. There is a strong desire manifested in many quaiters, so to alter the tari of letter postage as to reduce the amonnt of tax at present iinpored, Shouldsuch a measure be carried into effect,jto the full extent desired, it cannot well be doubt- ed but that, for the first years o1 its operation, a diminish ed revenue would be collected, the supply of which would necessarily constitute a charge upon the Treasu- ry. Whether such a resul: would be desirable, it will be for Congress, in ita wisdom, to determine. It may in gene- ral beasserted, that radical alterations in any system should rather be brought about gradually, than by sud- den changes; and by pursuing this prudeit policy in the reduction of letter postage, the Department might still {through the revenue which will accrue by of letters. The state and condition of the public Treasury has, heretofore, been such as to have precluded the recommendation of any material change — Ake difficulties upon t! head have, however, ceased, and a large discretion ow left to the Government. Icannot too strongly urge the policy of authorizing the establishment of a line cf steomships regularly to ply between this country and foreign ports, und upon our own waters, for the transportation o1 the mail. "he ex- ample of the British Government is well worthy of imita- tion in this respect. The beliet is strongly entertained that the emoluments arising from the trazisportation of moil matter to foreign countries, would operate of itself as an inducement to cause individual enterprize to undertake that branch of the task; and the remuneration of the Gov- ernment would consist in the addition readily made to our steam navy in case of emergency by the ships so employ- ed, Baould this suggestion mect your approval, the pro priety of placing such ships under the command of expe- rienced officers of the navy will not escape your obeerva- tion, The application of steam to the purpose of naval wariare, cogently recommends an extensive steam marine as important in estimating the defences of the country.— Fortunately, this may be attained by usto a great extent without incurring any large amount of expenditure. Steam vesacla to bo engaged in the transportation of the mails on our principal water-courses, lakes, and parts of our coast, could al» be so constructed as to be efficient aa war vessels when needed; and would of themselves constitute a formidable force in order to repel attacks from abroad. We cannot be blind to the fact, thut other nations alreudy added large numbers of steam ships to their that this new and powerful agent is destined to revolutionize the condition of the world. It becomes the United States therefore, looking to their se- curity, to adopt a similar policy; and the plan suggested will enable them to do so at a small comparative cust. I take the greatest pl asure in bearing testimony to the zeal and untiring industry which hes characterized the condnct of the members of the Executive Cabinet. Each in his appropriate ephere hag rendered me the mort ctti- cient aid in carrying on the Government, and it will not, I trust, appear out of place for me to bear this public tes- timony. ‘The cardinal objects which should ever be held in view by those entrusted with the administration of public affairs, are rigidiy, and without favor or sffvction, fo to interpret the national will, expressed in t laws, as, that injustice should be done to none—jus- tice to all, ‘This has been the rule upon which they have acted ; ond thus it is believed that few cases, if any, exiet, wherein our fellow-citizens, who from time to time have been drawn to the Seat of Government for the settlement of their transactions with the Government, have gone away dissatisfied Where the testimony has been perfected, ond was esteemed snt.s their claims have been promptly audit and this in the ab- sence of ell favoritism or parti . The Govirnment which is not just to its own peeple, can neither im their affection, nor the re t of the world. At the same time the closest attention has been paid to those matters which relate more immediately to the great con- cerns of the country. Order and efficiency in each branch of the public service, have prevailed, accompa nied by a sysiem ef the most rigid reeponsibility on the part of the receiving and disbursing agents. ‘The fact, in illustration ofthe truth of this remark deserves to be noticed, that the revenues of the Gevernment, amount ing in the last four years to upwards of $120,000,000,have been collected and disbursed, through the nunerous Go- vernmental agents, witnout ‘he loss, by detault, of any amount worthy cf serious commentary ‘The appropriations made by Congress for the improye- ment ot The rivers of the West, and of the harbors on the lakes, are in a course of judicious expenditure under suitable agents: andare destined, it is to be hoped, tore- alize all the benefits designed to be accomplished by Congress. I cannot, however, sufficiently impress upon Congress, the great importance of withholding appropri- ations from improvements which are not ascertained by preyious («amination ard survey, to be necessary for th shelter and protection of trade from the dangers of storms and tempests. Without this precaution, the expenditures are but too aptte enure tothe benefit of individuals ; without reference to the only consiceration which can render them constitutional—the public interests and the general good. I cannot too earnestly urge upon you the interests of this istrict, over which, by the Constitution, Congress has exclusive juriediction. It would be deeply to be re- gretted should there be, at any time, ground to complain ‘ef neglect on the part of a community which, detached 8 it is from the parental care of the States of Virginia and Maryland, can only expect aid from Congress, a8 iis local legislatu Amongst the subjects which claim our attention, is the prompt organization of an asylum for the insane, who may be found, from time to time, so journing within the District. Sneh course isalso de ‘aanaeaty consideratior ‘hich apply to branches of the publie service. For the necessities in this behelf, | in- vite your particular attention to the report of the Secre- tary of the Navy. | Ihave thus, gentlemen of the two Fonres of Con gress, presented you a true and faithful picture of the Sondidon ot public affairs, both foreign wad domestic. The wants of the public service are made known to yeu; and matters of no ordin importance are urged upon your consideration. Shall I not be permitted to congra- tulate you on the happy auspices under which you have assembled, and at the important change in the condition of things which has occurred in the last three years?— Daring that period questions with foreign powers, of vital importance to the peace of our country have been settled and adjusted. A desolating and wasting war with savege tribes, has been brought to aclose, The internal tranquillity of the country, threatened by agitating questions, has been preserved. The credit of the Government, which had he gn ye a temporary embarrassment, has been Lega ne 4 jored Its coft-rs, which, for a season, were empty, have been replenished. A currency, nearly uniform in its value, has taken the place of one depreciated and almost worth. less. Commerce and manufactures, which had suffered in common with every other interest, have once more re vived ; andthe whole country exhibits an aspect of prow perity and happiness. Trade and barter, no longer gov. earned by a wild and speculative mania, rest upon a solid and substantial footing ; and the repid growth of our ci- ties, in every direction, bespesks most vornble circumstances by which we ar happiness, in the retirement which shortly awa the ardent hope which 1 experience, that te of prosperity is neither deceptive nor to be short jived, and that men which have not yet received its sanction, but w I cannot but regard as closely connected with the honor, the glory, and larged prosperity of the coun- try, are destined, at an early day, to receive the approval of Congress. Under these eircumstances, and with the anticipations, | ehall it gladly leave (o others, mo: able than myself, the noble and pleasing task of tains ing the able prosperity. shall car ith tiremen' the gratifying reflection ¢! throughout haa been advance the rely have failed in accomplishing it; and this gra- reer ie heightened in no small degree by the fact when, under a deep and abiding sense of duty, I have found myself constrained to resort to thre qualified Veto, it has neither been followed by disapproval on the ue of the people, nor weakened in any degree ive feature of our Government. to that great conservative SOHN TYLER. Wasninaton, December, 1644. POSTMASTER GENERAL'S REPORT, Post Orrick Devaar 25th November, 1844, To the President of the United States : S1x—It will be gratifying to you, and no doubt to the country, to be informed, as preliminary toa detailed report of the operations of this Depart- ment, during the past year, and of its present con- dition, that for the time it has been under the su- perintendence of the undersigned, and during the whole of your administration, its current expenses have been met by its current revenue, and the amount of service is now greater than at the com- mencement of the year 1841. A further extension ot the usefulnees of the De- partment, would have been made, but for embar- rassments and difficulties it had to encounter by the operations of private mails established upon the leading lines of post roads connecting the impor- tant commercial cities and towns of the United States. In the absence of that legislation heretofore suggested as necessary to protect the Department against the inroads upon its revenue, there is cause of congratulution, if not surprise, that J have not yet been compelled to curtail the service below its preset amount. i ‘The total transportation of the mailby horse, and instages, railroads, and steamboats, for the year ending the 30th June, 1844, supplying 14,108 ‘post offices, at a cost of $2,938,551, was 35,400,624 miles, exceeding the transportation for the year 1841 by 413,100 miles. The income of the Department for the year end- ing the 30th June, 1844, was as follows: Letter postage, - - $3,676,161 53 Neweratervocenes? ti ‘549,743 83 Fines, - - + = 00 Miscellaneous receipts, 11,245 47 ‘Total revenue reported, $4,237,285 83 The total amount of expenditure settled and paid for the same period is $4,206,867 70. creniy The year which has passed has been distin- guished in many portions of the country, particu- larly in the South and West, by excessive rains and floods, interposing obstructions to the regular transit of the mails, which it was impossible for the most vigilant and enterprising contractors to over- come. ith exceptions of this kind, the service has been generally well performed by contractors. ‘The revenue collected by Postmasters,with very few exceptions, has been promptly paid and ac- counted for, and it is worthy of remark, that of the $17,488,087 18 collected by Postmasters with- in the last four years, no material Joss has been, or will be, sustained by the Government. be Contractors, and all others having legal ciaims upon the Department, have been, during the same period, promptly paid. : It gives me pleasure to say of the disbursing agent of this Department, that he has discharged his trust with a commendable ies The whole amount of appropriations, for the last four ye: which have been disbursed by him, is TB 404,852 68. His accounts have been regularly settled at the Treasury, up to the 30th of September, 1! and every dollar legally and properly accounte for. The various duties of the Assistants and Clerks of the Department have been well and efficiently performed. ; i The Report of the First Assistant Postmaster General, of the extent and nature of the service for the last eight years, with costs of transportrtion, accompanies this report. I refer to this report as containing valuable statistical information of the amount of caprial employed in the transportation of the mail. It will also be seen by the same report, that at the recent lettings of the miduvle section, without any injurious alterations of the service, sum of $91,471 has been saved, compared with the amount paid under the former contracts. _ ‘The number of cases of mail depredations re- ported to the Department, for three years pre the 12th October, 1844, is nineteen hundred ani thirty-four, Amount of alleged loss, $462,135.— Amount of money recovered, or loss satisfactorily ascertained, $304,242. One hundred mail depre- dators have been arrested and ‘tried, during the same period. : ‘ rt 1 am warranted in the expression of the opinion, that the number of mail depredations has been di- minishing within the last few years, and greater security, by greater vigilance, has increased public confidence .n this mode of transmitting money trom one portion of the country to the other. From the above facts it may be inferred that the Pe cial Agents of the Depariment have not been altogether unmindful of their duty. It is not alone to silent investigations into cases of losses by mail that their labois have been confined. They are charged with a general out-door superintendence of the service and the preservation of the public pro- penty of the Department. ip The necessity and importance of such supervi- sion,and the advantage of astrict system of respon- sibility may, in some degree, be known from the value and amount expended annually for a portion of this public property. Take, for instance, the item of mail bags. The amount expended for this pur- poge, for the four years, including the amount of accounts suspended prior tothe Ist of July, 1840, which amount of suspended accounts was paid in 1841 and 1842, was $216,889. The amount actually expended for the tour years preceding the first of July, 1844, is $70,558 40. - The members of the convention who framed the Constitution of the United States felt the necessity that the power to establish post offices and post roads and to conduct the operations of the mail, was one which, to be useful and commensurate with the wants of our extended country and diver- sified interests, must be exclusively vested Congress of the United States, whose legislative funcuons and supervision would pervade the whole sphere of the operations of that power. ‘ The expense of the system must be sustained by the same power which created and controls it. For reasons obvious to those who founded the post oflice system of the United States, the prin- ciple that it must sustain itself by. its own ope- rations, was engrafied into the first, and has been adhered to in every subsequent, act of legislauon concerning the Department. Whilst it has ever been required to sustain its own ex- penses, unlike the system in some other coun- tries, it has been regarded as a source of revenue to the General Treasury. - Our predecessors seemed to have adopted the rule that those who used the Post Office Depart- ment for private or individual purposes or benefits, should detray the expenses of ay pre: and deli- vering their letters. That, as it had to be sustained by a tax of some e en FoR age that tax by postage on letters, &c., being voluntary, was deemed most equal, and has heretofore proved acceptable to the community. 4 it was thought, in the infancy of our Republic, that it was unwise, if not unjust, that those who did not use the Post Office should be directly taxed tor the benefit of those who did. Hence they im- poved such a tariff of postage as, in their judgment, would best attuin the great object of sustaining the Department at the least practicable amount. he wisdom and justice of this rule are not over- turned by the fact, that the mode of collecting the revenue has been changed from asystem of direct taxation and excise to the imposition of a revenue tax upon imports. F If the Department isto be continued under the control of the General Government, as it should, | cannot imagine any mode by which its ae can be met, more equitable, more just, than by the collection of as much postage, and no more, upon the matter which passes through the mail, as will be equal to the demands of the service It is to the fact that the Post Office Department has been compelled to rely upon its own energies and resources, that its great and rapid extension and usefulness are mainly to be attributed. The Head of this Department, feeling his respon- sibility to the public, would not permit the service to expand without a correspondent increase in its receipts, which would, at the same time furnish evidence of extended usefulness. His hoy gen to the Government, and a just regard for own reputation, would admonieh him so to regulate the service, that, while it gave the greatest possible benefits tothe country, itshould produce an amount ofrevenue equal to its wants. ss Z If the Department, in accordance with the views pf some, recently promulgated, should be made an annual charge upon the general Treasury, and ite Head required to disburse the amount appropriated, fiom year to year, relying upon Congress to appro- priate whatever sum the real or imaginary wants of the community might demand, it may be well questioned whether much of that vigilance so ne- sessary to superintend a Department, complicated and ‘sntended as, this is, would not be lost in the simple routine of duty in expending whatever Con- gress may have appropriated, no matter whether 0 EEE EE ee