The New York Herald Newspaper, December 7, 1853, Page 2

o with the several demands of the Empe- py py more account of this transaction, and my wen to let yfer tothe correrpondance ber tween the d’Affeirs of Anstria and Secretary of state, which 16 herewith transmitted. The i ples United policy therein maintained, on the part of t Portny will, whenever ® proper eccasion occurs, be ap- plied and enforeed. The conditicn of China at this time renders it probable that some important changes will occur in thai vast &a- pire, which will leac to a more unrestricted intercourse with it, The Commissioner to that couatry, who has been recently appointed, is instrneted to avail himseif of all occasions to" open and extend our commercial rela, tions, not oply with the Empire of China, but with other Asiatle nations. In 1852, am expedition was sen! to Japan, under the command of Commodore Perry, for the purpose of open- ing commercial intercow se with that island, Intelligence has bees received of his arrival there, and of his having wade known to the Emperor of Jasan the object of his visit; but it is not yet ascertained how far the Emperor will be ¢isposed to abandon bis restrictive policy, and open that copulous country to ® commercial intercourse with the United States. It bas been my earnest desire to maintain friendly {a- tercourse with vernm +n's upon this continent, and to sid them in preserving good uniterstanling among themselves, With Mexico, a dispute bas arisen as to the true boundary lire between our territory of New Mexico and the Mexican State of Chibuah A former © sioner of the United State: ployed in ruaning tl pursuant to the treaty <f Guadalupe Hidalgo, cia rious mistake in eter mining the initial point on t a Grande; bat inasmuch, as bi* decision was clearly a de ‘ture from the directions for tracing the boundary con ir ed in that treaty, and was no’c ucurred in by the sar- veyor appointed on the part of the Ua ted States, whose concurrence was necessary to give validity to that de- cision, this government is net concluded thereby; but that of Mexico takes @ different view of the subject. There are also other questions of considerable magni- tude pending between the two Republics, Our Minister fa Mexico has ample instructions to adjust them. Nego- tiations have been opened, but sufficient progress has not been made therein to euable me to speak of the probable result. Impressed with the importance of maintaining emicable relaticns with that Republic, and of yielding with Liberality to all her just ¢laims, it is reasonable to expect that an arrangement, mutually satisfactory to both countrier, may be concluded, and a lasting friendship be tween them confirmed and perpetuated. ‘Congress baving provided for a fall mission to the States of Central America, a mivister waa sent thither ic Taly last. As yet he has had time to visit only one of these States, (Nicaragua,) where he was received in the wost friendly manner. It is hoped that his presence and offices wili have a benign effect in composing the ssepsions which prevail among them, nd in establish wg still more intimate and friendly relations betweea dem respectively, and between each of them and the TJaited Sta'es. Considering the vast regions of this continent, and the number of States which would be made accessiole by the free navigation of the river Amazon, particular attention has been given to this subject. Brazil, through whose territories it passes into the ocean, has hitherto yersisted ina pelicy so restrictive in regard tothe use of this river as to obstruct, and nearly exclude, foreign com- mercial intercourse with the States which lie upon its tributaries aad upper branches. Our maiister to that country is instructed to obtains relaxation of that po- icy, and to use his efforts to induce the Brazilian gov- ernment to opem to common use, umder proper safe guards, this great patural highway for international trade. Severalof the South American States are leeply interested in this attempt to secure the free navigation of the Amazon, and it is reasonable to expest their co- operation in the measure As the advantages of free com- meroial intereourse among rations are better understood, more liberal views are generally entertained as tothe com: mon rights of ali to the free use of those means which na tare bas provided for interrational communication. To these more liberal and enlightgped views it is hoped that Briar‘! will conform her pclicy, and remove all unnecessa- Fy restrictions upon the free use of @ river which tra- verses 30 many States and so large a part of the conti- nent. Iam bappy to inform you that the republic of Paraguay and the Argentine Confederation have yielded tothe liberal policy still resisted by Brazil in regard to the navigable rivers within their respestive territories. Treaties embracing this subject amoog otbers have been gegociated with these governments. which will be sub- mitted to the Senate at the present session. ‘Anew branch of commerce, important to the agricul: toral interests of the United States, has, within afew ears past, beer opened with Prra. Notwithstanding the austibdle deposits of guano upon the islands of that country, considerable difficulties are experienced in ob taining the requisite supply. Measures have been taken | to remove these di ies, and to securea more aban | dant impor ta:ion of the article. Unfortunately, there has | been s serious collision between our citizens, who have resorted to the Chiocha Islands for it, and the Peruvian authorities stationed there Redress for the outrages committed by the latter was promptly demanded by our minister at Lima. This subjec:is now under considera- tion, and there is reason to believe that Peru is disposed to olfer adequate indemnity to the aggrieved parties. We are thus not only at peace with all foreign coun- tries, but, in regard to political affairs, are exempt from = cause of serious disquietude in our domestic rela- ions. The controversies which have agitated the country ‘heretofore are passing away with the causes which pro- duced them and the passions which they had awakened; orif any trace of them remains, it may be reasonably oped that it will oaly be perceived in the zealous rivalry all good eitizenr to testify their respect for the righta wf the States, :heir devotion to the Union, and their oon determination that each one of the mations, its welfare, and its domestic peace, snall be held slike secure under the sacred wgis of the Constitution. Thir new league of amity and of mutual confidence and support into which the p+ople of the republic have ea- tered, happily affords inducement and opportunity for the adoption of a more comprehensive and une nbarrass @d line of pelicy and action, as to the great material inte- reata of the country, whether regarded in themselves or ia copnestion with the powers of the civilized world. The United States have continued gradually and steadi- ly to expand, through acqmisitioas of tercitory, which, how much sosver some of tiem may have been question ed, are now univerrally seen and admitted to have been wise in policy, just incharaster, and # great element io the advancement of our country, and, with it, of the ha wan race, in freedom, in prosperity’ and in happiness. The thirteen States have grown to be thirty one, with | relations reaching to Europe oa the one si: nd on the | other to the distant realms of Asi Tam deeply sensible of th which ‘he present magritude of the republic and the di- | versity and multiplicity of its interests devolves u; me; the alleviation of which so far aa relates to the im- mediste conduct of the public business is, first, in my re- Lasce on the wisdom and patriotiem of the two Houses of Congress; and eecondly in the directions afforded me by the principles of Public polity affirmed by our fathers of | tue of 1798, sanctioned by long experience, and cousecrated anew by the overwhelming voice of the peo- pie of the United States. Recurring to these principles, which constitute the or- peg basis of union,we perceive tha:,vast as are the fanc- and the duties of the federal government, vested in,or entrusted to its three great departments, the legislative, executive and judicia), yet the substantive power, the Popular force, and the large capacites for social and’ ma terial development, exist in the respective States, which, all being of themselves well constituted republics, as they | preceded, so they alone are capable «f maintaining and perpetuating the American Union. The federal govern ment has ita appropriate line of action in the apecific and limited powers conferred on it by the constitution, chietly as to those things in » hich he States have a common in- terest in their relations to one anotber, and to foreign SS while the great mass of interesta which be- long to cultivate! men. the ordinary business of life, the springs of industry, all the diversitied personal and do- | mestic affairs of society, rest securely upon the general reserved pore of the people of the several States. There is the effective democracy of the nation, and there | the vital essence of its being and ite greatness. Of the practical consequences which flow from the na- ture of the federal government, the primary one ia the duty of administering with integrity and fidelity the high trust reposed in it by the constitution, expecially in the application of the public funds, ax drawn by taxa ion from the people and appropriated to specific bjects by Congress. Happily I have no occasioa to suggest any radieal changes in the financiai policy of the government. Ours is almost, if cot absolutely, the solitary power of | Christencom, having a rurplus ue, irawa immedi- | @tely from imports on conmer i thereiore measur od by the spontaneous enterprise and national prosperity of the country, with such indirect relation to agricni ture, manofactures, an! the pro ucts of toe ea th aad sea, a4 to violate no constitutional doctrine, and yet vigorously promoie the general welfare. Neither as to the sources of the public treasure, nor as to the manner of keeping and mansging it, dues any grave controversy now prevail, there being a general acquiescence in the wisdom of the present system. The report of the Secretary of the Treasury will exbibit in detail the state of the public finances and the condi tion of the various branches of tne poblic service admia- istered by that department of the government. The revenue of the country, levied almost insenstbly to the tax-payer, goes on from ? to year, increasing be yond either the interests or the prospective wants of the government. At the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 1852, there rems ined ip the t/easury « balancs of fourteen mil- lion six hundred and thirty-two thousand one handi sod thirty six dollars The public revenue for the fiscal eer ending June 30, 1853, amounted to fifty-eight mil- hon nine hundred and thiriy. one thousand eight hun- dred and sixty five dollars from customs, and to two mil- four bundred and five thousand seven hundred end eight dollars from public lands and other miscel- laneous sources, amounting together to sixty-one million three hundred and thirty seven thoussed five hundred and seventy-four dollars; while the public expenditures for the same pericd, exclusive of payments on account of the public debt, amounted to forty-three million five hurdred and fifty-four thousand two hun- dred and sixty two dollare—leaving s balance of thirty- immense responsibilit H ditures. This fact of increasing rurplas in the treasury be came the subject of anxious consideration a ly my gdministre ti id the path of dnty in re- seemed to me obvious and clesr, namely :—first, surplus revenue to tne discharge of the pub far as it couli judiciously be dows; and, Jual ret ustion of to the standard of the public exigancisa, Of these objects the firet bas been in the course of ac im @ maaner and to # degree highly satis. factory. amount of the public debt of all classes oa the 4th of March, 1363, sixty-nine millions one bundred and ninety thousasd and thirty. seven dollars ; yuents on scwount of which have been made, since that period, to the amount of twelve millions seven hundred and three thousand three hundred and twenty uine dollers—leaving — and in the continnous course of Nqaldattea, the sum o! fifty eix millicos four hundred and eighty-six thousand seven hundred aod eight dollars. These payments, although made at the market price of the respective classes of stock, have bee , and to the E 3 | you to the report of the Secretary of the Interior. igual utility in the relief y wifurded to the money market ead to the indus- aod commercial pursuits of the country. The second of the mentioned objects, that of the sction of the tariff, in RL em fone ne 4 oa 0 ogonbed by ae Seoretery of the Troneury, which ry business relations. I reepectfully ask your attentice to sundry suggestions of improvewents in the settlement of accounts, especial- ly as regards the large sums of outstanding asrears due tojthe government, and of other reforms in the adminis- trative action of his department, which are indicated by the Secretary; as also to the progress made in the con- struction of ‘mayine hospitals, custom houses, and of » new Mint in California and Assay Office in the city of New York, heretofore provided for by Congress; and also to the eminently successful progrees of the t Survey, and of the Light House Board. Among the odjects meriting your attention will be im pretent recommendations from the Secretaries of War and Navy. Iam fully satisfied that the Navy of the Unized States is not in ® condition of strength aad eficisncy commensurate with the magnitude of our commercial and other interests; and commend to your especial at tention the suggestions on this subject made by the Sec retary of the Navy. I respectfully submit that the Army, which, under our s} stem must siways be regarded with the highest interest, as a nucle: and which the vol- unteer forces of the nation gather ip the requires augmentation or modification, to present extended limits and frontier relations of the coum try, and the conditions of the Indian tribes in the interior of the continent: the necessity of which will appear in the eommunications cf the Secretaries of War and the Interior. In the admixistration of the Post (fice Department for the fiseal year ending June 30, 1853, the gross expenditure was seven million nine hun¢ red and eighty. two thou: and seven bundred and fifty six dollars; and the gross receipts during the same period, five mi lion nine hundred aad forty wo theusand seven hundred and thirty.four dol- Jars; showing that the current revenne failed te meet the current expenses of the department by the sum of two milion forty-two thousand aod thirty-two dollars. The causes which, under the present postal ay:tem and laws, led inevitably to thig result, are fully explained Lee Report of the Postmaster General; one great cause being the enomcus rates the department has been compelled to pay for mail service rendered by railroad comps nis. Th xhibit in the Report of the Posmaster General of the income and expenditures by mail steamers, will be found peculiarly . interesting, and of a character to de- a immediate action of Congress. ous and rant fraucs upon the Pension Bu- reau been brought to light within the last year, and in some instances, merited punishments inflicted. but,un fortunately, in others guilty parties have escaped, ‘mot through the want of sufficient evidence to warrant a oon- vieticn, but in consequence of the provisions of limita- tion in'the existing laws. From the nature of these claims, the remoteness of the tribunals to pass upon them, and the mode in which the is, of necessity, furnished, temptations to srime ave been greatly stimulated by the obrious difficulties of detection. The defecis in the Jaw upon this subject are so apparent, and se fatal to the ends of justice, that your early action relating to it is most desirable. During the lest fiscal year, nine millions dred and nineteen thousand four hundred ané acres of the public lands have been surveyed millions three hundred and sixty-three thousand eight hundred and rirety-one acres broughtizto market. Wit.- in the same period the sales by dime urchase and pri- vate entry amounted to ore mi hty-three thou- sand four hundred and uinety-five acres; located under military bounty land warrants, tix million oa¢ hundred and forty two thousand three hundred and sixty acres; located under other certificates, nine thousand four hun. dred and twenty seven acres; ceded to the State as swamp lancs, sixteen million six handred and eighty-four thou- sand two hundred and fi‘ty-three acres; for rail- road and other objects, under acta of Congress, one million four hundred and twenty-seven thousaud four hundred and fifty-seven acres. Total amount of lands disporei of within the fiscal year, twenty five million three hundred and forty-six thousand nine hundred and ninety-two acres—which is an increase in quantity sold and located under land warrants and grants, of tvelve millioa two hundred and thirty one thou- sand eight hundred and eighteen acres over the fiscal yearjimmediately preceding. The quantity of land sold Guring the second ard third quarters of 1852, was three hundred and thirty-four thousand four hundred and fifty- one acres. The “amount received therefor was six hut dred and tweaty-three thourand six hundred and eighty- seven collars. The quantity sold the second and third quarters of the year 1853, was one million six handred and nine thousand nine hundred and nineteen acres; and the amount received therefor, two million two handred and meny six thousand eight hundred and seventy-six dc llars. The whole number of land warrants issued under exist- ing lawe. prior to the 30th of September last, was two bundred and sixty-six "thousand and forty two; of whish there,were outstanding, at that date, sixty-six thourand nine hundred and forty seven. The quantity of land re- quired to satisfy these outstanding warrants is four mil- lions seven hundred and seventy-eight thousand one hua- dred and twenty acres, Warrants bave been issued to the 30th September last, under the act of 11th February, 1847, calling for twelve millions eight hundred and seventy-nine thousand two hundred and eighty acres; under acts of September 28, 1860, and March 22, 1852, calling for twelve mil'ion five hundred and five thousamd three hundred and sixty acres—making a total of twenty-five million three hun dred and eighty-four thousands six hundred and forty acres. It is believed that experience has verified the wisdom and justice ef the present system, with regard to the public demain, in mo-t erseatial particulars. You will perceive from the Report of the Secretary of the Interior, that opinions, which have often been ex- pressed in relation te the operation of the land sya:em, as not beirg a source of revenue to the feceral freasury, were erroneous. The net profits from the sale of the pub lie lands to June 30, 1868, amounted to the aum of fifty- three million two hundred and eighty nine thousand four buncred sn¢ sixty five dollars. T recommend the extension of the land system over the territo: ies of Utah and Mexico, with such modifica tions as their peculiarities may requira, Regarding our public domain as chiefly valuable to pro- vide homes for the industrious and entarorining, am not prepared to recommend ay essential change in the land system, ¢xcept by modifications in favor of the actual settler, and an extension of the pre-emption Principle in certain cases, for reasons and on grounds which will be fully developed in the reports to be laid before you Congress, re ting the Bae of the territorial domain, and charged especially with power to dispose of territory belonging to the United States, has, for a long course of years, beginring with the aimfnistration of Mr. Jefferson, exerc.sed the power to construct roads withip the territories; and there are many and obvious distinctions between this power and that of maxing roads within the States, and that the former has never been considerec subject to such objections as apply to the lat- ter, and such may pow be coasidered the settled construc- tion of the power of the federal government up n the subject. Numerous applications have been, and no doubt will continue to be made fer grante of Isnd, in aid of the con- struction of railways. It is not believed to be within the intent and meaning of the corstitution, that the power to dispose of the public domain should be used otherwise than might be expected from ® prudent proprietor, and, therefore, that grante of land to aid in the construction of roads st ould be restricted to cases where it would be for the interest of a proprietor, under like circumstances, thus to contribute to the construction of these works. For the practical operation of such grants thus far, ia ad vancing the interests of the States in which the works are located, and, at the same time, the substantial interests of all the other States, by enhancing the value and promoting the rapid sale of the public domain, I refer A careful examination, however, will show that this experience is the result of a jart discrimination, and will be far from affording eccou-agement to a reckless or indiscriminate extension of the principle, I commend to your favorable consideration the maa of genius of our country, who, by their inventions and dis coveries in science and art have contributed largely to th improvements of the age, without in many iastances securisg for themselves anythirg like an adequate re ward. ing details upen this subject, refer you to the appropriate reports, and especially urge upon your early attention the spparently slight, but re aily importent wr Odifications of existing laws therein sug grated. The liberal spirit which has so long marked the action of Copgrees in relation to the District of Colambia, will, I have no doubt, continue to be manifested. ‘The erection of sn asylum for the ioxane of the district of Columbia, ard of the army and navy of the Uniced States, has been somewhat retarced by the great demand for materials and labor during the last summer: bot full preparation for the reception of patients, before the return of another winter, is anticipated; and ‘here is the best reason to believe, from the plan and contemplated arrangements which have been devised, with the large experience furnished within the last few years in relation to the natare and treatment of the disease, that it will prove an asylum indeed to this most helpless and afllicted clasa cf sufferera, and stand as a noble monument of wisdom and mercy. Under the acts of Congress of August 31, 1852, and of March 8, 1853, designed to secure fir the cities of Wash ington and Georgetown an sburdant supply of good and v bolesomg water, it became my duty to examine the report and plans of the engireer who had charge of the sur under the act first named, The best, if not the only pla caloulated to secure permanently the object sought waa that which contemplates taking the water from the Great Falls of the Potomac, and, consequently, I gave it my approval. ‘or the progress and present condition of this im- portant work, and for its demands, so far as appropria Uons are concerned, I refer you to the report of the Soc retary of War. The present judicial system of the Unites States has now bren in operation for so long & pases of time, and has, in ite general theory and much of its details, become eo familiar to the country, and acquired so entirely the public confidence, that if modified in any respect, it should only be in those particulars which may adapt it to the inereased extent, popuiation, and legal business of the United States. In this relation, the organization of the courts is now confersedly inadequate to the duties to be performed by them; in consequence of which, the States of Florida, Wisconsin, Iowa, Texas and California, and districts of other States, are in effect excluded from the full bonefits of the general sytem, by the functions of the Cireuit Court being dsvoived on the District Judges in all those States, or parts of States, The spirit of the Constitution and a due regard to ‘yd tice, require that all the States cf the Union a! be placed on the aame footing in regard to the juicial tri- bunala, I therefore commend to your consideration this important subject, which, in my judgment, demands the speedy action of Congress. I ‘will present to you, if deemed desirable, & plan, which I am prepared to res0m. mend, for the enlargemen; and modification of the pre- sent judicial system. The act of Congress, establishing the Smithsonian In stitution, rovided that the President of the United States, and other persons therein designated, should oonstit en “establishment” by that pame, and that the mem- bers should hold stated and special mestings for the rupervision of the affairs of the institution. The organi vation not having taken place, it seemed to me proper that it should be effected without delay. This has been dope; and an oocasion was thereby presented for inspect- ng the condition of the institution, and epprociating it | graven line ef division petween statesmen of eminent ability and ‘The rule of strict con- struetion of all powers delegated by the States to the general government has arrayed ttaelt from time to time against the rapid }1ogress of expenditures from the na- Uoval treasury on works of a local character within fhe States Memorable as an epoch in the history of this subject is the M leasage of President Jask son, of the 2ith of May, 1830, which met the system of interval improvements in its comparative infancy; rapid had been its growth, that the projected appropris- tions in that year for works of this character had risen to pees rming amount of more than one hundred millions of jar In that message the President admitted the difficulty of bringing beck the operations of the government to the construction of the constitution, setup in 1798, and warked itas an admonito. ‘oof of the necessity of guarding that instrument with sleepleas vigilance against the authority of precedents which had not the sauction of its most plainly defined powers. Our government existe under a written compact be: tween sovereign States, uniting for specific objacts, and with specific grants te their general agent. If,then, in the rogrers of its administration there have been departures jem the terms and intent of the compact, it is, and will ever be, proper to refer back to the fixed standard which our fathers left us and to make a stern effort to con- form our action to it. {t would seem that the fact ofa pripeiple having beer resisted from the first by many of wisest and most patriotic men of the republic, and a policy having provoked constant strife, without arriving ata conclusion which can be regarded ‘as satisfactory to its most earnest acvocates, should suggest the inquiry whetber there may not be plan likely to be crowned by happier results Without perceiving any sound distin- tion, or intending to assert any principle as opposed to improvements needed for the protection of internal com- merce, which does not equally apply to improvements upon the seabeard for Seprrmoton ce for commerce, I submit to you, whether it may not be safely anticipated that, if the policy were once settled sgainst appropria- tions by the general government for local improvements for the benefit of commerce, localities req: expendi tures would not, by modes and means clearly legitimate and proper, raise the fund necessary for such construo- tionas the safety er other interests of their commerce might require. If that can be regarded as a system, which, in the ex- perience of more than thirty years, has at no time #0 commanded the public judgment as to give it the charac- ter of a pettled policy—which, though it has produced sone works of conceded importarce, has been attended with an expenditure quite disproportionate to their value —and has resulted in squandering large sums upon ob- jects which have snswered no valuable purpose—the terests of all the States require it to be abandored, leas hope may be indulged for the future which find no warrant in the past. With an anxious desire for the completion of the works which are regarded by all good citizens with sincere terest, I have deemed it my duty to ask at your hands a deliberate reconsideration of the question, with a hope that, animated by a desire to promote the permanent and substantial interests of the country, your wisdom may prove equal to the task of devising and maturing ylan, which, applied to this subject, may promise som thing better than constant strife, the suspension of the powers of local enterprise, the exciting of vain hopes, and the disappointment of cherished expectations. In expending the appropriations made by the last Con- ES several cases have arisen in relation to works for eeroneance harbors, which involve questions as tothe right ef soil fore loci and have threatened conflict between the authority of the Stafe and general govern- ments. The right to construct a breakwater, jetty, or dam, would seem, necessarily, to carry with it the power to protect and 'preserve such constructions. This can onl; be effectually cone by having jurisdiction over the soil. But no clause of the constitution is found on which to rest the claim of the United States to exercise jurisdiction over the soil of State, except that conferred by the eighth section of the first article of the constitution. It is, then, submitted whether, in all cases where construc- tions are to be erected by ‘the general government, th right of soil shou’d not first be obtained, and kgislative Provision be made to cover all auch cases. For the pores made in the construction of roads within the Territories, as provided for in the sppropria- tions of the last Congress, I refer you to the Report of the Secretary of War. There is one subject of a domestic nature, which, from its intrinsic imp: rtance, and the many interesting ques tions of future policy which it involves, cannot fail to re- ceive your early attention. I allude to the means of communication, by which differert parts of the wide ex- panse of our country are to be placed in closer connes- tion, for purposes both of defence and commercial intercourse, and more especially such as appertain to th communication of those great divisions of the Union which lie on the opposite sides of the Rooky Mountains. That the government has not beeo unminéful of this heretofore, is apparent from the aid it has afforded, throug appropriations for mail facilities and other pur- poses. But the general subject will sow present itself under aspects more imposing amc more purely national, by reascn of the surveys ordered by Congress snd now in the process of completion, for commun'cation by rail- way across the Continent, and wholly within the limits of the Ucited States. The power to declare war, to Taise and supps:t armies, to provide and maintain a navy, and to call forth the militia to execute the laws, supprees insurrections, and re;el invasions, was conferred upon Cong: ess, as means to provide for the common defence, and to protect a ter‘itory and a population now wide spread and vastly multiplied. As incidenta) to. and indispensable for, the exercise of this power, it must sometimes be necea- sary to construct military roads and protect harbors ef refuge. To appropriations by Congress for such ob ects, 10 sound objection can b3 raike!, Heppily for our courtry, ity peacefal policy and rapidly increasing popu lation, impo e upon us no urgent necessity for prepara: tiop, ard but few trachless de erta bet ween sssail- able points and a patristic people ever raady, and gen rally able, to protect them. necessary links the enterprise and energy of our people are steadily and bold- ly struggling to supply. All experience sffirms that wherever private enterprise will avail, it ia most wise for the gene el government to leave to that and individual watchfulness the location and exesution of all means of communication The surveys before alluded to were designed to ascer- tain the mort practicable and economical route for a rail- road from the river Mississippi to the Pacific Oceam Par ties are now in the field making explorations, where pre- vious examinations had not supplied sufficient data, and where there was the best reason to hope the object sought might be found The means and time being both limited, it is not to be expected that all the accurate krowledge desired will be obtained; but it is hoped that much and important information will be added to the stock previously possessed, and that partial, if not full reports of the surveys ordered, will be received in time for transmission to the two Houses of Congress on or before the first Monday in February next, as required by the act cfappropriation. The magnitude of the enter- prise contemplated has aroused, and will doubtless co tinue to excite, a general interest throughout the country. In its political, its commercial, and its military bearings, it has varied, grest and increasing clains to conrideration. The heavy expense, the great delay, and at times fatality attending travel by either of the Isthmus routes, have demonstra‘ed the advantage which would result from territorial communication by such safe and rapid means as a railroad would supply There difficulties which have been encountered in» peried of peace, would be magnified and still further created in time of war. But whilst the embarracam already encountered, and others under new contiageaci to be anticipated, may serve strikingly to exhibit the im. portance of such a work, neither these nor all consicera tions combined can have an appreciable value, when weig hed against the obligation strictlyto adhere to the con- Ftitution, and faithfully to execute the powers it confe Witbin this limit and to the extent of the interest of the government involved, it would seem both expedient and proper if an econcmical and practicable route shall be found. to aid, by all constitutional weans, in the construo- tion of a road, woich will unite, by speedy transit, the po- pulations of the Pacific ard Atlantic States. To gaard against misconception, it should be remarked that, although the power to construct or aid in the constrac: tion of ar ad within the limits of a territory is not em- barrareed by that question of jurisdiction which would arive within the limits of a State, it is, nevertteless, hell to be of doubtful power, and more than doubtful proprie ty, even within the limits of a territory, for the general government to undertake toadninisver the affaics of @ railroad, @ canal, or other similar cunstraction, and therefore that its connection with a work of this character ebould te inciden rather than primary I will nly t present that, fully appresiating the mag nitude ef the subject, and solicitous that the A tic and Pacifie shores of the Republic may be bo together by inseparable ties of common interest, well a8 of common fealty and attachment to the Union, I eball be disposed, so far as my own action is ccncer to follow the lights of the constitution, unded ané iNustrated by thore whose opin 4. expositions conatitute tle standard of my political faith in regard to the powers of the federal Gov. errment. It ia, I trust, not necessary to say thet ro grandeur of’ enterprise, and no present urgent inducem: nt promisitg popular favor, will lead me to disregard those lights, or to depart from that path which experience has proved to be safe, and which is now radiant with the glow of prosperity and Jegiiimate constitutional progress. We can afford to wait, but we cannot afford to overlook the ark of our security. It is no part of my purpcse to give prominense to any subject which may properly be regarded an set at rest by the deliberate judgment of the people. But while the preent is bright with promise, and the future full of demand and inducement for the exercise of active intelligence, the past can never be without useful lessons of admonition and in- struction. If its dangers serve not as beacons, they will evidently fail to full the object of a wise design, When the grave shall bave closed over all who are now endeavoring to meet the obligations of duty, the year 1850 will be recurred vo as a period filled with snxious apprebension. A _ successful war had just termimated. Peace bronght with it » vert augmentaion of territory. Disturbing ques- tions arose, bearing upon the domestic institutions Cf one portion ot the con'ederacy, and involving the covstitutional rights of the States, But, notwith- standing differences of opinion and sentiment whieh then exiated in relation to details and specific pro: visions, the acquiescence of distinguished citizens, Aevotion to the Union oan never be doubted, has g: cewed vigor to our institutions, and restored s sense of repore and security to the public mind throughout the confederacy. That this repose is to suffer no shook du a if 1 have power to avert it, those placed me here may be ured. the wisdom who knew what inde 66 cost—who hat 2 pot all at stake ey the issue of the Revolutionary steu; gle—disposed of the audject to which I refer, in the only way consistent with inion of these States, and with the march of which has made us what wence, Lt ia font, that Crom the adop- ent of civil liberty, which. environsd with inhereat difficulties, was yet borne forward in apparent weacness by @ power superior to all « bata- ) There is no mation which the voioe of Free- dom will not pronounce upon us should we prove faithless to this great trust While men inhabiting different parte of this vast continent cam no more be expected to hold the same opinions, or entertain the same sentiments, than every variety of climate er soil can be expected to far- nish the same agricultural products, they can unite in » ccmmon object and sustain common principles es- sential to the maintenance of that obdjsc! The zallant mep of the South and the North could stand toze- ther during the struggle of the Revolution: they could stand together in the more trying period which euccesded the clangor of arms. As thelr united valor was adequate to all the trials of the oad | nd dangers of the field, 80 their united wisdom proved equal to the greater tack of founding, upon @ ceep and broad basis, institutions which it has been our pr.vilege to epjoy, and will ever be our most sacred duty to sustain. It is but the feeble ex pression of a faith, strong anc universal, to say that their sons, whose blood ‘mingled so often upon the same felt during the war of 1812, and who have more recently borne in triumph the flag of the country upon a foreign soil, will never permit alienation of feeling to weaken the power of their united efforts, nor ix te) nal dissensions to paralyze the great arm of freedom, upli.ted for the vindi- ¢ation of self-government. Thave thus briefly presented such suggestions as seem to me especially worthy of your consideration. In pro- viding for the Ry geer can hardly fail to avail your- selves of the light which the experience of the past casts upon the future. The growth of our population has mow brought us, in the destined career of our national bistory, to a point at which it well behooves us to expand our vision over the vast perspective. The successive decennial returns of the census since the adoption of the constitution have revesled a law of steady progressive development, which may be stated, io general terms, 088 duplication every quarter century, Carried for- ward, from the point already reached, for only a short pe riod of time as applicable to the existence of « nation, this law of pi to almost incredible results, very materially reduce thi , while the increased average of buman life, known to have already resulted from the scientific and hygienic improvements of the past fifty ) ears, will tend to keep up through th next fitty, or r vs hondred, the same ratio of growth which has Been thus:reyealed in one past progres; acc’ to the in: fluence of these causes may be added the influx of laboring masses from Eastern Aria to the Pacific side of our possessions, together with the probable. accession of the pepulations existing in other parts of our hemisphere, which, within the period in question, will feel, with yearly increasing force, the natural attraction of so vast, powerful and pros; us ® confederation of self gov: republics, and seek the priviloge of being admitted within its safe and peniy bosem, with themselves, by a peaceful and healthy processs incorporat spacious regions of virgin and exuberant soil, which are destined to swarm with the fast-growing and fast spreading millions of our race. These Ce eek seem fully to justify the presump- tion that the law ef popula icon above stated will con- tinue te act with limiuished effect through at least the next half bape H and that thousands of persons who have already arrived at maturity, and are now exer. cising the righta of freemen, will close their eyes on the spectacle of more than one hundred millions of popula- tion embraced within the mojeatic proportions of the American Union. It is not merely as an interesting topic of speculation thatl present these views for your consideraticn. They have important practical bearings upon all the political duties we are called upon to eee: Heretofore our system of government has worked upon what may be termed a miniature scale, in comparison with the developement which it must thus assume, within a future so near at as scarcely to be beyond the present of the existing generation. I¢ is evident that a confederation so vast and sd varied, both in numbers and in territorial extent, in habits and in interests, could only be kept in national cobesion by the strictest fidelity to the principles of the constitution, as understood b; thoe who have adhered to the most restricted con- struction ef the powers granted by the people and the States Interpreted and applied according to thore principles, the great compsct adapts itrelf with healthy ease and freedom to an unlimited extension of that beni system of federative self government, of which it is our glorious, and, I trust, immortal charter, 5 en, with redoubled vigilance, be on our ard Let it ling te fii powers, oven dienoy. The minimum of federal rnment, compatible with the maintenance of national unity and efficient action in our relations with the reat of the world, should afford ress, if unchecked, A of doubt- | the rule and measure of construction of our powers under the general clauses of the constitution. A spirit of strict deference to the sovereign rights and dignity of every State, rather than a disporition to subordinate the States into a provincial relation to the central authorit should characterize all our exercise of the respective powers tem- porarily vested in us as a sacred trust from the generous confidence of our constituents. In like manner, as 8 manifestly indispensable condition of the perretuation inion, and of the re: ion of that magnificent national fature slinded to, does the duty be- come yearly stronger and clearer upon us, as citizens of the se to cultivate # fraternal and affoc- oral princip desl'ng of Stave with State, whether in legislation or the exo- cuticn ot laws, are the means to perpetuate that confidence y, the decay of which a mere political union, on le, could not long surviv other pout of view is an important practical duty sugar sted by this consideration of the magnitude of di- mensions to which eur pelitics] sysiem, with its correspond. ing machinery of government, apidly expanding. With increased vigilance doos it require us to cultivate the cardi- nal virtues of public frugality and official integrity and pari. ty. Pubic afinirs ought to be 60 conducted that a settled conviction shall pervade the ent're Union that nothiag short of the highest tone and standard of public morality marks every part of the administration and logislation of ¥h governm: ‘Thus will the federal sion tims deeply ri ‘Pi at wise economy, which is r mony a8 from cerrupt and corruptin, single regard for the pu ‘lic good whic astempte to approach she Treaga 4 from parsi- Tavagance—that will frown upen all with insidious pro} Ls oven flowing rev sleeping watebfaln tional expenditure to exty ye— while they are admitted ele- mentary politiesl duties, may, I trust, be deemed as pro- perly adverted to and urged. in view of the more i@pressivo sense of that necessity which is dircctly suggested by the now present Prosident of f earth, with- PO tion to 'which d by the voice of his countrymen. Having occupied, almost continuously, for more than thirty years, a sent in one or the other of the two Houses of Congre: having, by his singular purity and wisdom, ed confidence and unive-sal respect, his watohed by the nation with painful soli the country, under garded as irreparable 4n compliance with the act of Congress of March 2, 1853, the oath of office was administered to him on the 24th of that month, at Ariacne estate, rear Matanzas, in the Island of Cuta; but ength gradually declined, and hardly sufficient to enable him to return to his home in Alsbama, where, on the 18th day of April, in the most oalm and peace: i yey his long and eminently u.eful oareer was termi- pated. Entertsining unlimited confidence in your intelligent and petriotic devotion to the publi> int rest, and boing conscious of no motives on my part which are not inseparable from tho honor and advancement of my coantry, 1 hope it may be my privilege to deserve and secare, not only your cordial ovope pation in great public measures, but also thoss rolations of matual confidence and rerard which it is always so desirable to cultivate between members of co-ordinate branches of she government, FRANKLIN PIERCE. Wasuncron, D. C., Deo. 5, 1803. seoured unbound- failing health was ici ve nces, has been justly ro- 1 the circum: Report of the Indian Department. Ovrice INDIAN. A¥FATRS, Novemune 26, 1853. Sm—I bave the bonor to fubmit a general view of the prfsent ecndition of our Indian relations, and statement of the operatiens of this brauch of the public servic®, during the part year. Referring to the accompanying reports of the different superintendents, agents, and other persons employed for ihe benefit of the Indians, for more detailed and specific information in regard to their present condition and pro spects, I would remark that peace and tranquility have prevailed generally among the emigrated and other tribes along extensive inner frontiers, from Lake Superior and our northern boundary to Texas, with whom we hare con venticnsl relations and in‘ercourse of long standing. In regard to these more remote, and those more recently brovght unde: the supervision of the Department, fewer occurrences of @ painful nature have been reported than might have been anticipated. ‘The whole number of Indiana within our limita is mated at 400,000 About 18 000 yet linger in some of the States east of the Missiasippi—principally in New York, Michigan and Wisconsin—the remainder, consisting of Cherokees, Choctaws, and Seminoles, being in North Caro lina, Missine ippi, Florid The number Minnesota and along the frontiers of the Western States to Texas, comprising maialy emigrated tribes, is estimated at 110,000; those of the Plains and Rocky Mountain) 4 not withia any of our organized territories, at 63, in Texas at 9,000; those ia New Mexis0 at 45,000; those in California at 10°,000; those in Utah at 12000; ae in the Territories of Oregon and Washiogton at The unfortuna‘e and distracting controversy some time existing among the Seneca In tians of New York, in re gard to their form of government, seems happily to have tezmina‘ed; the republican sees, adopted by the ma- jority in 1848, being apparently acqueiased in by the re- mainger, by whom {t was long and strenuously opposed. The dictates of hu nanity and good policy alike require the early and effective interposition of th respect to the Indians o1 Michigan, Indians, some seven thousand in number, are represented to be divided into more than sixty separate co nmunities, and a found in nearly ever7 county of the State. Many of them being without any settted places of habitation, and gra- ually imbibing the worst vices of oiviliaati in, . ing vitia'ed and degraded, a pest and a nuiuanse to the neighborhoods where they resort. In this unsettled, dispersed and otherwise unfavorable coadition, nothing can be done to reclaim and improve them. Those of their more fortunate brethren, who have enjoyed the advantages of fixed looation, present ® much more favorable aspect. Most of them have comfortable homes, and, under the infiyonce of the devoted offerte of eororal Christian de- and the citizens of Michigan, it is understood, entertain no desire to have them expelled from the country and hote of their forefathers, Suitable localities, it is ua- derstood, can be found for them in the State, where they can be concentrated under circumstances favorable to their comfort and improvement, without detriment to State or individual interests, and early measures for that purpose should be adopted. A portion of the united tribes of Stockbridges and Mun sees of Wisconsin, are under treaty obligations to emi- grate west of the oviosipal river, but their removal has necessarily beem delayed from want of adequate means to defray the expense thereof and of their year’s subsistence. ‘A further appro riation will therefore be requisite These Indians are few in number, and should not be disunited. As #:on a8 it cam be done, an effort should be made to ce them and ibose of their brethren now west of the Ltineiasippt river, all comfortably tog:ther. Tn 1848, the Menomonees ceded their entire country in a to remove to another stipulated to be given them in Minnesota, west of the Mississippi. From this obligation they were exempted by the late President of the United State: und of the un suitability of the new cor ied for them; and, with the approbation of the proper suthcrities of Wis: consin, they were assigned and removed to a remote portion of the extensive tract which they had ce led, embracing about 345,600 acres. The information in pos- session of the Department leads to the conclusion that this location is, in all respects, suitable for them; and that they cam probably remain there for many years without interferenee with the. advancement or interests of the white population. If, however, this arrangement is to be of a permanent character, a new convention with them will be necessary for the relinquishment of the country given to them by the treaty of 1848, and that the various Lisa pepl didteregt of that treaty may be made Operative and *pP cable to them where they are. Th Wisconsin, have a permanent location near Green Bey, where they will probably remain, and eventually become citizens, as the tribe of Brothertowns hasdone. The only other Indians in the State consist of afew bands of those known as the Chippewas of Lake rupericr, still living om lands heretofore ceded t» the United States, but where it has thus far been desmed proper to permit them to remain, for reasons materially affecting their preservation and welfare. Should it be deemed ne: to centinue the superin tendency, created by the ae of 27th February, 1851, heretotore confined to the Indians in Wisconsia, it should be made to embrace also those im Michigan, and a differ- ent location assigned to the superintendent. The large and populous tribe of Chippewas, the great body of whom are in Minnesota, still own an extensive tract of country east of the Mississippi, of whieh on ac- count of its great mineral wealth, it will become necessa- y to obtain possession at sm eerly day. Their lands west of the Mississippi are sufficiently ample for the whole tribe; and their concentration there would be an arrange- ment advantageous both to them and the government. ‘assigned to the Winnebagces by the treaty of 1846, in the region of the headwaters of the Missis- sippi, proved to be net altogether suitable. So great has been Cissatisfaction that it has been impossible to keep a majority of them upenit. Under these circum- stences, and because of their pressing and constant so- citations, and of promises given last year, arr: ments were made the past summer to assign them another and more satisfactory home. The new location fixed upon, which is further south tham their present couatry, is ob- jected to, it is understood, on the ground of its bringing them too near the white settlements, and its close prox- imity to the Misalastppi river is believed to be prejudicial to the interests of the Indians. The department has not yet determined whether these objections are sufficiently ‘well founded to justify the rejection of this arrangemen}. The present situation of t portion of the Sioux In. diana parties to the treaties of July 23and August 15, 1861, is peculiar, unfortunate, and to them must ulti- mately prove extremely injurious. By these treaties reluctantly ie with a very Lad extent of valuab! country, which it was of the importance to the government to acquire, An it portion of it near its western boundary, not deemed necessary or desi- ble fer a white pepulation for many years, if at all, was agreed to be reserved and to them for their fu- ture residence. The Senate amendad the treaties—striking out this provieion—allowing ten cents per acre in liew of the reservations, and req the President, with the t of the Indians, if they agreed to the amendments, to assign them such tract of country beyond the limits of that ceded,as might be satisfactory, for their future home, To the amendments was appended & proriso “that the Presi¢ent may, by the consent of the Indians, vary the conditions aforesaid, if deemed expedient.” The Indians were induced to agree to the amendments, “confiding in the justice, liberality, and humanity of the President, and the Oongress of the United States, that such tracts of (country will be set apart for” their ‘future occupancy and home, as will be to them acceptable and satisfactory.” ‘Thus, not only was the assent of the Indians made necessary to a country being assigned to them without the limits of that ceded, but, by the authority given to the Presijent to vary the conditions of the amendments to the treaties, he was empowered, with the consent of the Indias, to place them upon the rv proces reservations, or upon any other portion of the ceded territory, ‘if deemed expedient.”” To avoid collisions and ditficulties between the Indians and the white population, which rapidly commenced pcurirg into the ceded territory, it became necessary that the former should vacate at least = large portion of it without delay, whilst there wae neither the time, nor the means to make the requisite explorations, to find a suita- ble Iceation for them beycnd the limits of the cession. Under these preesing and embarrassing circu nstances, the late President determined to permit them to remain five yeas on the designated reservation, if they were willing to accept this-alternative. They assented, and many of them have already been removed. However ua- avcidable this arrangement, it is a most unfortunate one. The Indians are fully aware of its temporary character, and of the uncertainty as to their future pcaition, and will, consequently, be disinclined and deterred from any efforts to make {temselves comfortable, and improve their concition. The inevitable result must be that, at the end of the time limited, ey will be ina far worse condition than new, and the efforts and expenditures of of years to infuse into them a spirit of improvement, will all bave been in vain. The large investments in mills, farms, mechanic shops, and other improvements required by the treaties, to be made for their benefit, will be ee? wasted if the In- dians are to remain on these rerervations only during the preecribed five years. At the very period when they ‘would begin to reap the full advantage of these beneficial ores, they would have to remove. Another unfor- urate feature of this arrangement, if temporary, is, that the In¢ians will have expended the considerable sums set apart ip the treaties fcr the fe nied of their removal to rmanent home, and for subsistence uatil they could erwise provide it, leaving nothing for these important and necessary purposes in the event of other emigration. In view of these facta and contiderations, no time should be lost in determizing upon some final arrangement in regard to them. ‘The tribes of the Upper Missouri agency, with exception of the Blackfeet, are represented as generally quiet ani aceable, Such of them aa are parties to the treaty of ort Laramie have maintained, with but one single excep- tion, friendly relations among themselves, and manifested an incresseing confid:nce in, and kindness towards, the whites Some of the Incians in this agency raise corn, beans, pumpkins, &c., to # limited extent, but rely prin: cipally on the hunt for taeir support.’ The amend- ments of the Senate of the 24th of May. 1852, to the seventh article of the treaty of Fort Laramie, were promptly assented to by such of the tribes as tke agent had ecnferred with, and there is no doubt but that the others will readily do so when be has an op- portunity of seeing them—they beirg absent at the time of hisarrivalin their country on their usual hunts eneral concition of the Indians within the limits of the Council Bluff agency is mot encouraging. Tho Omahas are represented as having raised enough corn to last them through the winter; and by a judicious appli- cationof the money paid them by government this sea- son, it ie thought they may, toa great extent, be sand from suffering. The Otoes and Missourias’, a confederate tribe, are ina state of abject poverty Reduced by a combination of caures, and perhaps some neglect on the part of the gov- ment, they are indeed objects of pity. The Pawnees are also ina destitute condition. Their number now doer not exceed one balf of what it did four years ago. They formerly resided on the north side of the Platte river, and on the west side of the Loup fork of that stream. ’ A few years ago they were represented to be in a flourtshing condition bat the Sioux came down upon and murcered many of them, burned their houses, stole their horres and other stock, and the survivors were compelled to retreat to the south side of the Platte, and have thenceforward been unwilling to return to their for- mer homes. The Indians of this agency, like all others, indulge in the use of intoxicating liquors when they can obtain it, and unfortunately the two tribes first named, are, from the location of their villager, never free from the temptation. The half breeds located between the Great and Little Nemeha rivers, and numbering, including their families, sbout rixty souls, have made some considerable advance mm civil zation The Icways have many advantrges, but they have not prefitab y availed themselves of them. Indolence and vice predominate. This tribe numbered, at their last payment, according to the pay roll, four hundred and ninety seven; by the census recently taken, they number only four bundred and thirty-seven. Their location has, no doubt, a very unfavorable influence on them, ani al- though they promise a reformation in their habi change of resider ce is perhaps indispensable. The Saca and Foxes of Mirsouri reside w tract of land with the loways. Theirfconé ition, however, is rather better; but ‘ks in relation to the Ioways to a considerable extent applicable to the Sacs and ‘oxes. The Kickapoos are more advanced than any other tribe in theGreat Nemaha agency. They are represented as making some progress in agriculture. A few have com- fortable houres and domestic animals about them. The Wysndot's, Shawnees and Delawares, are embraced in the Kanzas agency. A oumber in each of these tribes are educated, intelligent men, having good dwellings and surrounded with the usual comforts and conveniences of civilized life. Various religious derominations have mis- sions in this agency, and tome of the Indians are profes- sors of the Christian religion. but many of them are habit- ual drunkards, Tre Wyandotts have in operation a sys tem of common schools, and a code of laws for their own government. The Pottowatomie Indians are not, a1 a general thing, improving. They bave a large money apnuity, the cur rupting effects of which are very visible, The govern ment has provided no habitation for an agent in their country, and left to themselves without the necessary oversight, with maay avenues by which whiskey can be, snd conatently is introduc d among them, they indulge in the free use of it, Dissipation prevails, and mauy of the principal men are, it is believed, destita integrity, and are used to subserve the purpr ses of the avarisious, Cesigning and heartless, who seek, and but too often ob- tain, the control of them for the promotion of thsir own sinister views. A few of the is are, to 8 sonsiderable extort, cultivating the soll, and there sre some good men in the nation, who appear to have availed themselves of the benefits of the missionary efforts among the ’vitowat+ i "The Kansas Indians, with the Fottowatemiey, gonstitute yn the sare Cepredations. ‘he tribes embraced in the Sac and Fox Saxes and Foxes, of the Mississip) Chippewas, of Swan Creek and Ottowas, of Roche de Boeuf and Blanchard’s fork. The Sacs and Foxes are a wild, titre dono depending almost are the the band of k river, and the entirely on the chase for subsistence, ‘They have, here- tofore, strongly resisted the introduction of schools or missionaries among them; and made a steady and power- ful effort to maintain all the manners, customs, and tra- ditions of their fathers. Recently a portion of them have expressec a desire to attempt to cultivate the and entertained conversations in relation to the employ: ment of teachers and missionaries. They had also promised their agent to refrain from the use of ardeat spirits, in which they have, to their great injury, freely indulged. ‘The Chippewss and Ottowas depend for subsistence om the cultivation of the seil, and are comparatively in am advanced a1 of civilization. It is the opinion of their agent, that they will this year have a surplus of agricul tural productions. The Ottowas have adopted a simple code of laws for their government. ‘The Weas and Piankeshaws, Kaskashias and Peorias, ard the Miamis, constitute the tribes of the Osage river No official report has been received {from the In the mon:h of Sep- Sac and Fox agency, that officer met with am accident which caused his absence from his sgency at the period of the year when these an- nual reports are made up. The Weas and Pisnkeshaws, Kasha: {and Peorias, are known to be doing reason- ably well They depend principally on agriculture for “ support. iamis are not doing well. Their ‘th in so convenient te the white settlements that ave at all times;the opportunity to gratify their ap- tite for ardent spirits, and they may be said to indulge abit ‘and very freely in its use. Tie Chippewas, Ottowas, Weas and Piankeshaws, Kas- kackias and Peorias, and the Miamis, all complainof the depredations of the Sao and Fox Indians, and express the hepe that they may be removed far away from them. ‘There is no doubt but te complaints of these small tribes are, to a considerable extent, well founded, and that the location of the Sacs and Foxes in their vioinity, haa been injurious to their interest. ‘By a provision contained in an act of ap- roved the 3d of March last, the President was author- Rea to enter into negotiations with the Indian tribes west of the States of Missouri and Iowa, for the purpose of procuring their assent to the settlement of our citizens upon the lands claimed by them, and of ectiagniies their title in whcle or in part to thone lands. Com- missioner of Indian Affaire was designated by th [- dent as the officer of the Indian Department to conduct the necessary negotiations, and that duty was under- taken by him at the st period consistent with his other official en; A preliminary visit to the Indian country view to explore it, and to obtain such informstion as would be useful and necessary in severing 25 and instructions as to the terms rei conditions ef the treaties to negotiated, was deemed necessary, and was made by that officer in obedi- ence to his instruetions. While thus engaged, he visited the Omabas, the Ot es fand Missourias, lowas, Sacs and Foxes of Missouri, Kickapcos, Delawares, Shawnees, Wy- andotta, Potowatomies, ‘Joos and Foxes of the ‘Missisai p Chippewas of Swan creek and Black river, Ottowas Roche ¢e Bouf and Blanchard’s Fork, Weas and Pianka- shaws, Kaskaskias and Peorias, and . These em- brace all the tribes located immediately west of Mis- souri and Iowa, Gras the bands of Quapaws, Senecas and Shawnees, ar: Senecas, whe have small tract adjacent to the southwest corner of the State of Mis- souri, and whom, for want of time, the Commissioner was unable to visit. The same cause eperated to prevent his seeing the Pawnees, Kanzas and Osage Indians, with whom, although their lands are not contiguous to the boundaries of either cf these States, it is desirable that treaties also be made, should a civil government be ea- tablished, and the ceuntry opened for settlement. The Commissioner held councils with every tribe whom he visited, and disclosed to them the object of his journey to their country. He found the mind in an uo- favorable condition to receive and calmly consider his mersage. For some time previous to his arrival in the Indian country, individuals from the States had been ex- Heine ponies of it, with the intention, as was under- stood, of attempting to make locations and settlemente, The discussion of the subject, and the exploration of the country by citizens of the States, alarmed and excited the Indians. Some of them were eee. & grand coun. cil, at which it was designed to light up the old Indian fires, and eonfecerate for defence against the white people, who they believed were coming in force to drive them from their country, and to occupy it, without their con- sent and without consideration. Under such circam- stances st was very difficult to quiet the Indians, or divest their minds of an impression that the Commissioner's visit was not in some way or other intended to aid the Frogremed in his Journey? and conferro with ike tribes, P 8 journey, and con! ® e the difficulty was gradually removed. aii With but few exceptions the Indians were opposed to felling any part of their lands, as announced in their re- plies to the speeches of the Commissioner; finally, how- ever, many tribes expressed their willingness to sell, but on the condition that they could retain tribal reserva- tions on their present tracts of land This Pritey was deemed objectionable, and not te be adepted if it could be avoided; and with such tribes the time of treat: deferred until next spring, with the hope that the by that time might see that their permanent interests re- quired an entire transfer of all their lands, and their re- moval to a new home. Some tribes declined to dispose of any portion; and all with the exception of the Wyandetts and Uttowas, who expressed an opinion on the subject 0! an crganization of a civil government in that territory, ‘were opposed to the measure. They have, with but fe exceptions, 8 very crude end unintelligible idea of the ‘white man’s laws,” deeming ther of tyranny and oppression, and they dread as wel fear them. Before the Commissioner left the country quite a change was perceptible among the Indians; and it is believed that with but few exceptions, the tribes will next spring entee into treaties and dispose of portions of their coua- try, and some of them will sel the whole of their land, ‘The idea of retaining reservations, which seemed to be generally entertained, is not deemed to be consistent with their true interests and every good influence ought to be exercised to enlighten them on the subjrct. If they Cispese of their lands, no reservations should, if it can be avoiced, be granted or allowed. There are some Indians in various tribes who are occupying farms, com- fortably situated, and who are in such an advanced state bs Selvileconat tae My desired to remain the privilege might well, and ought perhaps to be grant- ed, and their farms in esch case Feoetved for their homes. Suck Indians would be quahfed to enjoy the privileges of citizenship. But to make reservations for an entire tribe on the tract which it now owns, would it is believed, be injurious to the future peace, prosperity and advar cement of these people. The Commissioner, as far as he jagged it prudent, endeavered to enlighten them en this po! =f and latored to convirce them that it was not c with the true interest of themselves and their poster that they should have tribal reservations within prerent limite. The ccudition of the Indians located west of Missouri and Iowa is notas gees or their advance nent im civilization as rapid, as the official reports annually re- ceived from that part of the courtry would authorize us to expect. In several tribes are to be found some eda- cated, intelligent men; and many are adie, by the culti- vation of the ear :h, to subsist themselves. Among these classes are some sincere professors of religion, but the mass of the Incians are indclent and intemperate, many of them are degraded and debased. The transplanting of these Indians, tion of their present country to their use and for their future home, was an emanation of the purest benevolence and the dictate of humanity. Vast sums of money have been expended by the fer: «rpment for the sustenance, comfort and civi - tion of these unfortunate le; and the mis- sionary has occupied tha’ eld of labor long and faithfully; but notwithstanding all that has been cone by the government and good men, the experi- ment bas measurably failed, Located generally on large tracts of land, separated into small and distinct bands, roaming at will and wandering in idleness, the masa of these tribos are in a cegraded state, with no hope of @ considerable degree cf reformation, (even with such im- provements as are practicable in their present manage- ment ) without a change of residence. Their opinions, habits, custems, and pursuits, which present an almost insurmountable cbstacle to their cbange from a primitive ‘te find now but little resistance; while the advice of the agent and the efforts of the teacher and divine are counteracted, to a 3 (lind extent, by influences of am adverse character, and which it is presumed will predomi- nate £0 Jong ss there Incians are permitted to remain where they now reside. The acquisition of Texas, New Mexico, and our Pacifie poreessions, and the vast annual emigration which passes through the Indian country and over the Indian reserva- tions, om its journey thither, and which was not antiei- pated at the time the Indiana were located thore, render it abrolutely necessary chat they be placed out of the pathe of the emigrants aa far as practicable. The inter- estaof both require it. In the present oondi'ion of the Incian, no good rerulta to him from his contact with the emigrant, while the latter is always embarrassed on bia journey, and frequently injured by the presence of the former. Except the Wyandots and Ottowas, who have a few simple laws, all the Indian tribes north of the Cherokee line are without any prescribed form of government, The Intercourse act. it jis believed, extends no protection to the emigrants: adventurous and valuable clase of our people is, therefore, unprotected while in the In- dian country. This state of things ought not to exist, ‘The Interccurse act, if amended, and its provisions exe tended to them, would still be inefficient, if not a coa@ letter, by reason of the great distance of the United States officers in the States from the Indian country. Im my judgment, the interests of the Indians require that a civil government be immediately organized in the terri- tory. The executive of the territory discharging, by vir- tue of his office, the duties of Superintendent of Indism Affairs, and having @ direct oversight of the Indien ser- vice there, would exercire a happy inflaence, not omly om the border triber, but in a brief space of time on the Im- diana of the plains. 7 In the annual report of the 30th of November, 1848, the then Commissioner of Indian Affairs nee the of | orang and keeping ren portion the fren 4 5 3 of Miesouri and Iowa, for the egress expan: ion of out own population, and the same measure has been ba reveral succersive annual reports, The necessity of opem- ing an ample western outlet for our rapidly ga population, seems to have been clearly foreseen by department The negotiations with the Indians, whe will have to be ¢isturbed, and the arrangem: for their peaceful and comfortable relocation, r: time and deliberation, it is to be regretted that J thority and means for the Lene poco of the object were not given more {o advance of the exigency which hae occurred, and which appeara to require pro wedings of a more precipitate character tham should have been per- mitted to become necessary. Objections ae urged to the organization of @ civil vernment in Indian country; but those that cannot, overcome are not to be compared to the advantages