Given under our hands, this 21st day of August, 1833.
The vote of Lincoln county not taken into calculation.
Jacob Keller, deputy for

Gentlemen: This is the fourth time that you have been the commencement of the late congressional election, for said pleased to call me to this high office. For this new and distin- district to wit, on the 20th day of August, 1833, we met at the guished mark of your confidence and favor, I pray you to ac- court house in Harrodsburg, Mercer county, and, adjourning cept my warm and grateful acknowledgments; and whilst it from day to day, made a faithful comparison and addition of the will be deeply valued and cherished by me as the best reward votes and polls, for said congressional election for said district, for any past service that I may have rendered, it shall inspire and found, and accordingly certify, that Thomas P. Moore, is me, with a zeal so to conduct myself, as to justify in some mea- duly elected representative to congress, from the said fifth conaure the choice of my friends, and merit the continued approba-gressional district, by a majority of the qualified votes of said tion of my country. Would to God, that I was better qualified, district. to fulfil the arduous duties of this chair, in a manner suitable to its dignity and importance, my own wishes and honor, and the just expectations of the house. There are few stations, gentlemen, under our government, either in relation to their elevation, or the nature and extent of their duties, more laborious or responsible, than that of speaker of this house; and there probably has been uo period in the past history of our country, when the duties of the chair were more important, or calculated to impose higher responsibilities, than at the present mo ment; enhanced as they necessarily must be, by the enlarged number of the house, by the increased mass of its ordinary business, and by those interesting and important subjects, which will, no doubt, be presented for consideration, and probably give rise to deep political excitement.

For the last six years, my experience in this chair, has taught me, not only to know and feel its responsibilities and trials, but to know likewise how difficult and indeed impossible it is, in an office like this, whose duties must often be discharged amidst the warmth of party feeling, for any man whoever he may be, to free himself from censure or give unqualified satisfaction; and especially in times like these, when the acts of public men, are not passed lightly over, nor any very charitable Judgment pronounced upon their motives.

G. W. Thompson, S. M. C.
John Wash, sheriff of An-

derson county by R. Walker, deputy.
James H. Lowry, deputy for
John Downing, S. J. C.

And the following was the clause of the law of Kentucky,
read by Mr. Allan, in objecting to Mr. Moore's claim:
An act to divide the state into congressional districts, approved
Feb. 24, 1833.

Sec. 3. Be it further enacted, That the sheriffs of the several
counties in each district, shall, on the fifteenth day after the
commencement of their elections, assemble at the places here-
inafter designated, in each of their respective districts, and
there, by faithful comparison and addition, ascertain the person
elected in their districts.
Sec. 5. Be it further enacted,

After having ascertained, as before directed, the person elected in such district, the sheriffs thereof shall make out a certificate Under these circumstances, gentlemen, sincerely distrustful of the election of the person in their district, which shall be of my abilities, both in their character and extent, I come again signed by all the sheriffs of the district, and which shall be lodgat your bidding, to this high office. All that I dare hope or pro-ed with the sheriff of the county wherein the polls are comparmise, will be, to proceed in the path marked out, and in the spied, and by him, together with a copy of the polls, transmitted rit of the principles which I laid down for my government when to the secretary of state.

Tuesday, Dec. 3. Some small matters being attended to-
Waller S. Franklin, esq. the clerk elect of the house, appear-

ed, and was sworn into office.

Mr. Randolph was re-elected sergeant at arms-by 158 votes

Mr. Sutherland, of Pennsylvania, moved that the rules and orders adopted by the last congress should stand as the rules and orders of the present congress.

I first came to this chair. It shall be my coustant and ardent desire, to discharge my duty with all the ability aud address in my power; with the temper and moderation due to the station and the house, and at least with a zeal and fidelity of intention, which shall bear me up under every embarrassment and diffi culty, and entitle me to the approbation of the just and liberal54 for William D. Robinson, scattering and blanks 8. Mr. Carr was re-appointed door-keeper, and Mr. Hunter re-apportion of my country. But all my efforts must prove unavailing, without that liberal and cordial co-operation which the pointed his assistant. house have heretofore so kindly extended to the chair. How much will depend upon yourselves, gentlemen, individually and collectively, in preserving the permanent laws and rules of the house, and giving dignity and character to its proceedings, it is not necessary that I should attempt to impress on you; nor is it needful, I am sure, that I should admonish you of the magnitude of your trust, or the manner in which it ought to be discharged. But this I will take occasion to say, that if it be true that this house is justly to be regarded as the great bulwark of liberty and order; if here, here in this exalted refuge, the people are to look for the security and safety of their free in-titutions, and to repose with unlimited confidence and affection, how important, how deeply important is it, that we prove ourselves worthy of the trust, and act as become the representatives of a free and enlightened nation.

Mr. Hubbard wished the resolution modified, so as to except those rules which designate the number of members of which the standing committees are to be composed; as it was his opinion that, in consequence of the enlarged number of the house, the committees should consist of nine members, instead of seven, as heretofore.

Mr. Polk wished the resolution modified so as to provide that the members should sit in the house uncovered, unless under special leave of the speaker.

[After some debate, in which Mr. Williams assigned his reasous, against an increase of the number of the committees, the rules of the last congress, except those having reference to the subjects above stated, were adopted for the government of the present.]

Yes, gentlemen, animated by a virtuous and patriotic zeal, Jet all our proceedings, I pray you, be marked with forbear ance, moderation and dignity; let us diligently and steadfastly At one o'clock-a message was received from the president pursue those measures, and those only, which are best calcu- of the United States, by A. J. Donelson, esq. his private secrelated to advance the happiness and glory of our beloved coun-tary, and read at the clerk's table as follows: try, and render that union, which our fathers established for Fellow citizens of the senate the protection of our liberties, imperishable and immortal.

and house of representives:

The speaker then took the required oath to support the con- On your assembling to perform the high trusts which the peostitution of the United States, which was administered by Mr. ple of the United States have confided to you, of legislating for Williams; after which the same oath was administered by the their common welfare, it gives me pleasure to congratulate you speaker to the members respectively, except that when Mr. upon the happy condition of our beloved country. By the favor Moore was called, it appeared that he and Mr. Letcher had con of Divine Providence, health is again restored to us: peace curred in allowing the organization of the bouse to be complet-reigns within our borders: abundance crowns the labors of our ed before the question between them was again raised; and neither of them was sworn.

fields: commerce and domestic industry flourish and increase: and individual happiness rewards the private virtue and enterprise of our citizens.

Our condition abroad is no less honorable than it is prosperous at home. Seeking Hothing that is not right, and determin

The house then proceeded to the election of clerk of the house. Mr. Polk, Mr. Henry King and Mr. Mann being the tellers; who, after counting the ballots, reported that the whole number of votes given in was 231; that of these 116 were neces-ed to gubmit to nothing that is wrong, but desiring honest sary to a choice.

Three ballots were taken as follows:

Matthew St. Clair Clarke,

Walter S. Franklin,

Scattering

Blanks

1st.

3

2

2

friendships and liberal intercourse with all nations, the United States bave gained throughout the world the confidence and respect which are due to the character of the American people and to a policy so just, and so congenial to the spirit of their institutions.

In bringing to your notice the particular state of our foreign affairs, it affords me high gratification to inform you, that they

with all nations.

So Walter S. Franklin, of Pennsylvania, was elected clerk of are in a condition which promises the continuance of friendship the house. And then the house adjourned.

With Great Britain the interesting question of our northeastern boundary remains still undecided. A negotiation, howbe-ever, upon that subject has been renewed since the close of the last congress; and a proposition has been submitted to the British government with the view of establishing, in conformity with the resolution of the senate, the line designated by the treaty of 1783. Though no definitive answer has been received, it may be daily looked for, and I entertain a hope that the overture may ultimately lead to a satisfactory adjustment of this important matter.

State of Kentucky, fifth congressional district. We the undersigned sheriffs for the counties of Mercer, Garrard, Anderson, Lincoln and Jessamine, composing said fifth congressional district, do certify, that on the fifteenth day after

that sea.

I bave the satisfaction to inform you that a negotiation | under disappointments so unexpected, I deemed it my duty, which, by desire of the house of representatives, was opened, however I inight respect the general assurances to which I have some years ago, with the British government, for the erection adverted, no longer to delay the appointment of a minister pleof light houses on the Bahamas, has been successful. Those nipotentiary at Paris, but to despatch him in season to comworks, when completed, together with those which the United municate the result of his application to the French government States have constructed on the western side of the gulf of Flo- at an early period of your session. I accordingly appointed a rida, will contribute essentially to the safety of navigation in distinguished citizen for this purpose, who proceeded on his This joint participation in establishments interesting mission in August last, and was presented to the king, early in to humanity and beneficial to commerce, is worthy of two en- the month of October. He is particularly instructed as to all mat lightened nations, and indicates feelings which cannot fail to ters connected with the present posture of affairs, and I indulge have a happy influence upon their political relations. It is the hope that, with the representations he is instructed to make, gratifying to the friends of both to perceive that the intercourse and from the dispositions manifested by the king and his minisbetween the two people is becoming daily more extensive, and ters, in their recent assurances to our minister at Paris, the subthat sentiments of mutual good will have grown up, befitting ject will be early considered and satisfactorily disposed of at the their common origin, justifying the hope, that by wise counsels next meeting of the chambers. on each side, not only unsettled questions may be satisfactorily terminated, but new causes of misunderstanding prevented. Notwithstanding that I continue to receive the most amicable assurances from the government of France, and that in all other respects the most friendly relations exist between the United States and that government, it is to be regretted that the stipula-manner as the occasion may require. tions of the convention concluded on the 4th July, 1831, remain, in some important parts, unfulfilled.

By the second article of that convention, it was stipulated that the sum payable to the United States, should be paid at Paris, in six annual instalments, into the hands of such person or persons as should be authorised by the government of the United States to receive it; and by the same article the first instalment was payable on the second day of February, 1833. By the act of congress of the 13th July, 1832, it was made the duty of the secretary of the treasury, to cause the several instalments, with the interest thereon, to be received from the French government, and transferred to the United States, in Buch manner as he may deem best; and by the same act of congress, the stipulation on the part of the United States, in the convention, were, in all respects, fulfilled. Not doubting that a treaty thus made, and ratified by the two governments, and faithfully executed by the United States, would be promptly complied with by the other party, and desiring to avoid the risk and expense of intermediate agencies, the secretary of the treasury deemed it advisable to receive and transfer the first instalment by means of a draft upon the French minister of finance. A draft for this purpose was accordingly drawn in favor of the cashier of the bank of the United States, for the amount accruing to the United States out of the first instalment and the iuterest payable with it. This bill was not drawn at Washington until five days after the instalment was payable at Paris, and was accompanied by a special authority from the president, authorising the cashier, or his assigns, to receive the amount.— The mode thus adopted of receiving the instalment, was of ficially made known to the French government, by the American charge d'affaires at Paris, pursuant to instructions from the department of state.. The bill, however, though not presented for payment until the twenty-third day of March, was not paid, and for the reason assigned by the French minister of finance, that no appropriation had been made by the French chambers. It is not known to me that, up to that period, any appropriation had been required of the chambers; and although a communication was subsequently made to the chambers, by direction of the king, recommending that the necessary provision should be made for carrying the convention into effect, it was at an advanced period of the session, and the subject was finally postponed until the next meeting of the chambers.

Nothwithstanding it has been supposed by the French ministry, that the financial stipulations of the treaty cannot be carried into effect without an appropriation by the chambers, it appears to me to be not only consistent with the charter of France, but due to the character of both governments, as well as to the rights of our citizens, to treat the convention made and ratified, in proper form, as pledging the good faith of the French government for its execution, and as imposing upon each department an obligation to fulfil it; and I have received assurances through our charge d'affairs at Paris, and the French minister plenipotentiary at Washington, and more recently through the minister of the U. States at Paris, that the delay has not proceeded from any indisposition on the part of the king and his ministers, to fulfil the treaty, and that measures will be presented at the next meeting of the chambers, and with a reasonable hope of success, to obtain the necessary appropriation.

It is necessary to state, however, that the documents, except certain lists of vessels captured, condemned or burnt at sea, proper to facilitate the examination and liquidation of the reclamations comprised in the stipulations of the convention, and which, by the 6th article, France engaged to communicate to the United States by the intermediary of the legation, though repeatedly applied for by the American charge d'affaires, under instructions from this government, have not yet been communi cated; and this delay, it is apprehended, will necessarily prevent the completion of the duties assigned to the commissioners within the time at present prescribed by law. The reasons for delaying to communicate these documents have not been explicitly stated, and this is the more to be regretted, as it is not understood that the interposition of the chambers is in any manner required for the delivery of those papers.

Under these circumstances in a case so important to the interests of our citizens and to the character of our country, and

As this subject involves important interests and has attracted a considerable share of the public attention, I have deemed it proper to make this explicit statement of its actual condition; and should I be disappointed in the hope now entertained, the subject will be again brought to the notice of congress in such

The friendly relations which have always been maintained between the United States and Russia, have been further extended and strengthened by the treaty of navigation and comby the senate before the close of its last session. The ratificamerce, concluded on the 6th of December last, and sanctioned tions having been since exchanged, the liberal provisions of the treaty are now in full force; and, under the encouragement which they have received, a flourishing and increasing commerce, yielding its benefits to the enterprise of both nations, affords to each the just recompense of wise measures, and adds tries have hitherto cherished towards each other. new motives for that mutual friendship which the two coun

It affords me peculiar satisfaction to state, that the governwhich have been so long urged in behalf of our citizens, and ment of Spain has at length yielded to the justice of the claims has expressed a willingness to provide an indemnification, as ter point, it is probable an understanding had taken place besoon as the proper amount can be agreed upon. Upon this lattween the minister of the United States and the Spanish government before the decease of the late king of Spain; and, unless that event may have delayed its completion, there is reason in your present session, the conclusion of a convention upon to hope that it may be in my power to announce to you, early jects with other nations. That act of justice would well acterms not less favorable than those entered into for similar obcord with the character of Spain, and is due to the United States from their ancient friend. It could not fail to strengthen the sentiments of amity and good will between the two nations, which it is so much the wish of the United States to cherish, and so truly the interest of both to maintain. July, 1832, the tonnage duty on Spanish ships arriving from the By the first section of an act of congress passed on the 13th ports of Spain, was limited to the duty payable on American vessels in the ports of Spain, previous to the 20th October, 1817, being five cents per ton. The act was intended to give effect, ment, by which discriminating duties of tonnage were to be aboon our side, to an arrangement made with the Spanish governlished in the ports of the United States and Spain, on the vessels of the two nations. Pursuant to that arrangement, which was carried into effect on the part of Spain, on the 20th of May, vessels in the ports of Spain have paid five cents per ton, which 1832, by a royal order dated the 20th of April, 1832, American American vessels pay no tonnage duty in the ports of the Unitrate of duty is also paid in those ports by Spanish ships; but as ed States, the duty of five cents payable in our ports by Spanish vessels, under the act above mentioned, is really a discriminating duty, operating to the disadvantage of Spain. Though no complaint has yet been made on the part of Spain, we are not the less bound by the obligations of good faith, to remove the discrimination; and I recommend that the act be amended accordingly. As the royal order, above alluded to, includes the ports of the Balearic and Canary Islands, as well as those of Spain, it would seem that the provisions of the act of congress should be equally extensive; and that for the repayment of such duties as may have been improperly received, an addition should be made to the sum appropriated at the last session of congress for refunding discriminating duties.

As the arrangement referred to, however, did not embrace the prejudice of American shipping, continue to be levied there. the islands of Cuba and Porto Rico, discriminating duties, to From the extent of the commerce carried on between the United States and those islands, particularly the former, this discrimination causes serious injury to one of those great national interests which it has been considered an essential part of our policy to cherish, and has given rise to complaints on the part of our merchants. Under instructions given to our minister at Madrid, earnest representations have been made by him to the Spanish government upon this subject, and there is reason to expect, from the friendly disposition which is entertained toThe disadvantage, however, to which our shipping is subjected wards this country, that a beneficial change will be produced. by the operation of these discriminating duties, requires that they be met by suitable countervailing duties during your present session-power being at the same time vested in the presion American vessels or their cargoes may be modified or disdent, to modify or discontinue them as the discriminating duties continued at those islands. Intimations have been given to the

Spanish government, that the United States may be obliged to resort to such measures as are of necessary self defence; and there is no reason to apprehend that it would be unfavorably received. The proposed proceeding, if adopted, would not be With those states our relations have undergone but little permitted, bowever, in any degree to induce a relaxation in the change during the present year. No reunion having yet taken efforts of our minister to effect a repeal of this irregularity, by place between the states which composed the republic of Cofriendly negotiation; and it might serve to give force to his re-lombia, our charge d'affairs at Bogota has been accredited to the presentations, by showing the dangers to which that valuable government of New Granada, and we have therefore no diplotrade is exposed, by the obstructions and burthens which a sys-matic relations with Venezuela and Equator, except as they tem of discriminating and countervailing duties necessarily pro- may be included in those heretofore formed with the Colombian duces. republic. It is understood that representatives from the three The selection and preparation of the Florida archives, for the states were about to assemble at Bogota to confer on the subpurpose of being delivered over to the United States, in confor- ject of their mutual interests, particularly that of their union; mity with the royal order, as mentioned in my last annual mes-and if the result should render it necessary, measures will be sage, though in progress, has not yet been completed. This de- taken on our part to preserve with each that friendship and those lay has been produced, partly by causes which were unavoida-liberal commercial connections which it has been the constant ble, particularly the prevalence of cholera at Havana; but mea- desire of the United States to cultivate with their sister repubsures have been taken, which it is believed will expedite the lice of this hemisphere. Until the important question of reunion delivery of those important records. shall be settled, however, the different matters which have been under discussion between the United States and the republic of Colombia, or either of the states which composed it, are not likely to be brought to a satisfactory issue.

A treaty of amity and commerce between the United States and Belgium, was concluded during the last winter, and received the sanction of the senate; but the exchange of the ratifications has been hitherto delayed, in consequence, in the first instance, of some delay in the reception of the treaty at Brussels, and subsequently, of the absence of the Belgian minister of fono diplomatic intercourse has yet been established. It will be reign affairs, at the important conferences in which his govern ment is engaged at London.

With all the other Europeau powers with whom the United States have formed diplomatic relations, and with the sublime porte, the best understanding prevails. From all I continue to receive assurances of good will towards the United States-as surances which it gives me no less pleasure to reciprocate than to receive. With all, the engagements which have been entered into, are fulfilled with good faith on both sides. Measures have also been taken to enlarge our friendly relations and exIt gives me great pleasure to congratulate you upon the prostend our commercial intercourse with other states. The sys perous condition of the finances of the country, as will appear tem we have pursued of aiming at no exclusive advantages, of from the report which the secretary of the treasury will, in due dealing with all on terms of fair and equal reciprocity, and of time, lay before you. The receipts into the treasury during the adhering scrupulously to all our engagements, is well calculat present year, will amount to more than thirty two millions of ed to give success to efforts intended to be mutually beneficial. dollars. The revenue derived from customs will, it is believed, The wars of which the southern part of this continent was, be more than twenty eight millions, and the public lands will so long, the theatre, and which were carried on, either by the yield about three millions. The expenditures within the year mother country against the states which had formerly been her for all objects, including $2,572,240 99 on account of the public colonies, or by the states against each other, having terminated, debt, will not amount to twenty-five millions: and a large baand their civil dissensions having so far subsided, as, with few lance will remain in the treasury after satisfying all the approexceptions, no longer to disturb the public tranquillity, it is ear-priations chargeable on the revenue for the present year. nestly hoped those states will be able to employ themselves The measures taken by the secretary of the treasury will prowithout interruption in perfecting their institutions, cultivating bably enable him to pay off, in the course of the present year,

here, that by the laudable exertions of the officers of the department, and inany of the citizens of the district, but few papers were lost and none that will materially affect the public interest. The public convenience requires that another building should be erected as soon as practicable; and in providing for it, it will be advisable to enlarge, in some manner, the accommodations for the public officers of the several departments, and to authorise the erection of suitable depositories for the safe keeping of the public documents and records.

the residue of the exchanged four and a half per cent. stock, redeemable on the first of January next. It has, therefore, been included in the estimated expenditure of this year, and forms a part of the sum above stated to have been paid on account of the public debt. The payment of this stock will reduce the whole debt of the United States, funded and unfunded, to the sum of $4,760,082 08. And as provision has already been made for the four and a half per cent. above mentioned, and charged in the expenses of the present year, the sum last stated is all that now remains of the national debt; and the revenue of the Since the last adjournment of congress, the secretary of the coming year. together with the balance now in the treasury, treasury has directed the money of the United States to be dewill be sufficient to discharge it, after meeting the current ex- posited in certain state banks, designated by him, and he will penses of the government. Under the power given to the comimmediately lay before you his reasons for this direction. I missioners of the sinking fund, it will, I have no doubt, be pur- concur with him entirely in the view he has taken of the subchased on favorable terms within the year. ject; and some months before the removal, I urged upon the From this view of the state of the finances, and the public department the propriety of taking that step. The near approach engagements yet to be fulfilled, you will perceive that, if Provi- of the day on which the charter will expire, as well as the condence permits me to meet you at another session, I shall have duct of the bank, appeared to me to call for this measure, upon the high gratification of announcing to you that the national debt the high considerations of public interest and public duty. The is extinguished. I cannot refrain from expressing the pleasure extent of its misconduct, however, although: known to be great, I feel at the near approach of that desirable event. The short was not at that time fully developed by proof. It was not until period of time within which the public debt will have been dis-late in the month of August, that I received from the governcharged, is strong evidence of the abundant resources of the ment directors an official report, establishing beyond question, country, and of the prudence and economy with which the ge- that this great and powerful institution had been actively envernment has heretofore been administered. We have waged gaged in attempting to influence the elections of the public offitwo wars since we became a nation, with one of the most pow-eers, by means of its money; and that, in violation of the exerful kingdoms in the world-both of them undertaken in de- press provisions of its charter, it had, by a formal resolution, fence of our dearest rights-both successfully prosecuted and placed its funds at the disposition of its president, to be employhonorably terminated-and many of those who partook in the ed in sustaining the political power of the bank. A copy of this first struggle, as well as the second, will have lived to see the resolution is contained in the report of the government direclast item of the debt incurred in these necessary but expensive toes, before referred to; and however the objects may be disguisconflicts, faithfully and honestly discharged-and we shall have ed by cautious language, no one can doubt that this money was the proud satisfaction of bequeathing to the public servants who in truth intended for electioneering purposes, and the particular follow us in the administration of the government, the rare uses to which it was proved to have been applied, abundantly blessing of a revenue sufficiently abundant-raised without inshow that it was so understood. Not only was the evidence Justice or oppression to our citizens-and unincumbered with complete, as to the past application of the money and power of any burthens but what they themselves shall think proper to the board of directors authorised the same course to be pursued the bank, to electioneering purposes, but that the resolution of impose upon it.

in future.

through the distresses of some and the fears of others, are equalAt this time the efforts of the bank to control public opinion quires, and even while it retains specie to an almost unprecement of its accommodations more rapid than any emergency redented amount in its vaults, it is attempting to produce great embarrassment in one portion of the community, while through presses known to have been sustained by its money, it attempts, by unfounded alarms, to create a panic in all.

The flourishing state of the finances ought not, however, to encourage us to indulge in a lavish expenditure of the public bank of the United States was converted into a permanent elecIt being thus established by unquestionable proof that the treasure. The receipts of the present year do not furnish the tioneering engine, it appeared to me that the path of duty which test by which we are to estimate the income of the next. The the executive department of the government ought to pursue, changes made in our revenue system by the acts of congress of was not doubtful. As by the terms of the bank charter, no offi1832 and 1833, and more especially by the former, have swelled cer but the secretary of the treasury could remove the deposites, the receipts of the present year far beyond the amount to be ex-it seemed to me that this authority ought to be at once exerted pected in future years upon the reduced tariff of duties. The to deprive that great corporation of the support and countenance shortened credits on revenue bonds, and the cash duties on wool- of the government in such an use of its funds and such an exerlens which were introduced by the act of 1832, and took effect on tion of its power. In this point of the case, the question is disthe 4th of March last, have brought large sums into the treasury tinctly presented, whether the people of the United States are in 1833, which, according to the credits formerly given, would to govern through representatives chosen by their unbiased sufnot have been payable until 1834, and would have formed a part frages, or whether the power and money of a great corporation of the income of that year. These causes would of themselves produce a great diminution of the receipts in the year 1834, as are to be secretly exerted to influence their judgment and concompared with the present one; and they will be still more di-bank is to have its candidates for all offices in the country, from trol their decisions. It must now be determined whether the minished by the reduced rates of duties which take place on the the highest to the lowest, or whether candidates on both sides of first of January next, on some of the most important and pro- political questions shall be brought forward as heretofore and ductive articles. Upon the best estimates that can be made, the supported by the usual means. receipts of the next year with the aid of the unappropriated amount now in the treasury, will not be much more than sufficient to meet the expenses of the year and pay the small rem-ly apparent, and if possible more objectionable. By a curtailpant of the national debt which yet remains unsatisfied. I cannot, therefore, recommend to you any alteration in the present tariff of duties. The rate as now fixed by law on the various articles was adopted at the last session of congress as a matter of compromise with unusual unanimity, and unless it is found to produce more than the necessities of the government call for, there would seem to be no reason at this time to justify a change. But while I forbear to recommend any further reduction of force a restoration of the deposites, and as a necessary conseThese are the means by which it seems to expect that it can the duties, beyond that already provided for by the existing laws, quence, extort from congress a renewal of its charter. I must earnestly and respectfully press upon congress the im- happy to know that, through the good sense of our people, the I am portance of abstaining from all appropriations which are not ab solutely required for the public interests, and authorised by the increased accommodations which the state banks have been eneffort to get up a panic has hitherto failed, and that, through the powers clearly delegated to the United States. We are begin-abled to afford, no public distress has followed the exertions of ning a new era in our government. The national debt, which the bank; and it cannot be doubted that the exercise of its powhas so long been a burthen on the treasury, will be finally dis-er and the expenditure of its money, as well as its efforts to charged in the course of the ensuing year. No more money spread groundless alarm, will be met and rebuked as they will afterwards be needed than what may be necessary to meet deserve. the ordinary expenses of the government. Now then is the pro- on by the facts disclosed to order a scire facias against the bank, In my own sphere of duty, I should feel myself called per moment to fix our system of expenditure on firm and dura- with a view to put an end to the chartered rights it has so palble principles: and I cannot too strongly urge the necessity of a pably violated, were it not that the charter itself will expire as rigid economy, and an inflexible determination not to enlarge soon as a decision would probably be obtained from the court the income beyond the real necessities of the government, and of last resort. not to increase the wants of the government by unnecessary and profuse expenditures. If a contrary course should be pursued, annual message, and informed them that such measures as were I called the attention of congress to this subject in my last it may happen that the revenue of 1834 will fall short of the de- within the reach of the secretary of the treasury, had been taken mands upon it; and after reducing the tariff in order to lighten to enable him to judge, whether the public deposites in the bank the burthens of the people, and providing for a still further re- of the United States were entirely safe; but that as his single duction to take effect hereafter, it would be much to be deplor-powers might be inadequate to the object, I recommended the ed if, at the end of another year, we should find ourselves oblig- subject to congress, as worthy of their serious investigation: ed to retrace our steps and impose additional taxes to meet un- declaring it as my opinion, that an inquiry into the transactions necessary expenditures. It is my duty, on this occasion, to call your attention to the cipal bank, was called for by the credit which was given throughof that institution, embracing the branches as well as the prindestruction of the public building occupied by the treasury de-out the country to many serious charges impeaching their chapartment, which happened since the last adjournment of con-racter, and which, if true, might justly excite the apprehension gress. A thorough inquiry into the causes of this loss was di- that they were no longer a safe depository for the public money. rected and made at the time, the result of which will be duly The extent to which the examination, thus recommended, communicated to you. I take pleasure, however, in stating was gone into, is spread upon your journals, and is too well

known to require to be stated. Such as was made, resulted in a report from a majority of the committee of ways and means touching certain specified points only, concluding with a resolution that the government deposites might safely be continued in the bank of the United States. This resolution was adopted at the close of the session, by the vote of a majority of the house of representatives.

the number of officers, and the general course of policy appropriate in the present state of our country, for securing the great and useful purposes of naval protection, in peace, and due preparation for the contingencies of war, meet with my entire approbation.

It will be perceived from the report referred to, that the fiscal concerns of the establishment are in an excellent condition; and it is hoped that congress may feel disposed to make promptly every suitable provision desired either for preserving or improving the system.

Although I may not always be able to concur in the views of the public interest, or the duties of its agents, which may be taken by the other departments of the government, or either of its branches, I am, notwithstanding, wholly incapable of re- The general post office department has continued upon the ceiving otherwise than with the most smeere respect, all opi- strength of its own resources, to facilitate the means of comnions or suggestions proceeding from such a source; and in re- munication between the various portions of the union with inspect to noue am I more inclined to do so, than to the house of creased activity. The method, however, in which the accounts representatives. But it will be seen from the brief views at this of the transportation of the mail has always been kept, appears time taken of the subject by myself, as well as the most ample to have presented an imperfect view of its expenses. It has ones presented by the secretary of the treasury, that the change recently been discovered, that from the earliest records of the in the deposites which has been ordered, has been deemed to be department, the annual statements have been calculated to excalled for by considerations which are not affected by the pro-hibit an amount considerably short of the actual expense inceedings referred to, and which, if correctly viewed by that de-curred for that service. These illusory statements, together partment, rendered its act a matter of imperious duty. with the expense of carrying into effect the law of the last sesComing as you do for the most part, immediately from the sion of congress, establishing new mail routes, and a disposition people and the states, by election, and possessing the fullest op- on the part of the head of the department to gratify the wishes portunity to know their sentiments, the present congress will be of the public in the extension of the mail facilities, have inducsincerely solicitous to carry into full and fair effect the will ofed him to incur responsibilities for their improvement, beyond their constituents in regard to this institution. It will be for what the current resources of the department would sustain.those in whose behalf we all act, to decide whether the execu- As soon as he had discovered the imperfection of the method, tive department of the government, in the steps which it has he caused an investigation to be made of its results, and applied taken on this subject, has been found in the line of his duty. the proper remedy to correct the evil. It became necessary for The accompanying report of the secretary of war, with the him to withdraw some of the improvements which he had made, documents annexed to it, exhibits the operations of the war de- to bring the expenses of the department within its own resourpartment for the past year, and the condition of the various sub-ces. These expenses were incurred for the public good, and jects entrusted to its administration. the public have enjoyed their benefit. They are now but partially suspended, and that, where they may be discontinued with the least inconvenience to the country.

The progressive increase in the income from postages, has equalled the highest expectations, and it affords demonstrative evidence of the growing importance and great utility of this de partment. The details are exhibited in the accompanying report from the postmaster general.

It will be seen from them that the army maintains the character it has heretofore acquired for efficiency and military knowledge. Nothing has occurred since your last session to require its services beyond the ordinary routine of duties, which upon the seaboard and the inland frontier devolve upon it in a time of peace. The system, so wisely adopted and so long pursued, of constructing fortifications at exposed points, and of preparing and collecting the supplies necessary for the military defence of the country, and thus providently furnishing in peace the means of defence in war, has been continued with the usual results. I recommend to your consideration the various sub-constituted authorities of the country. The fact that the number jects suggested in the report of the secretary of war. Their adoption would promote the public service and meliorate the condition of the army.

Our relations with the various Indian tribes have been undisturbed since the termination of the difficulties growing out of the hostile aggressions of the Sacs and Fox Indians. Several treaties have been formed for the relinquishment of territory to the United States, and for the migration of the occupants to the region assigned for their residence, west of the Mississippi. Should these treaties be ratified by the senate, provision will have been made for the removal of almost all the tribes now remaining east of that river, and for the termination of many difficult and embarrassing questions arising out of their anomalous political condition. It is to be hoped that those portions of two of the southern tribes which in that event will present the only remaining difficulties, will realize the necessity of emigration, and will speedily resort to it. My original convictions upon this subject have been confirmed by the course of events for several years, and experience is every day adding to their strength. That those tribes cannot exist, surrounded by our settlements and in continual contact with our citizens, is certain. They have neither the intelligence, the industry, the moral habits, nor the desire of improvement, which are essential to any favorable change in their condition. Established in the midst of another and a superior race, and without appreciating the causes of their inferiority, or seeking to control them, they must necessarily yield to the force of circumstances, and ere long disappear. Such has been their fate heretofore, and if it is to be averted, and it is, it can only be done by a general removal beyond our boundary and by the reorganization of their political system upon principles adapted to the new relations in which they will be placed. The experiment which has been recently made, has so far proved successful. The emigrants generally are represented to be prosperous and contented, the country suitable to their wants and habits, and the essential articles of subsistence easily procured. When the report of the commissioners now engaged in investigating the condition and prospects of these Indians, and in devising a plan for their intercourse and government is received, I trust ample means of information will be in possession of the government for adjusting all the unsettled questions connected with this interesting subject.

The operations of the navy during the year, and its present condition, are fully exhibited in the annual report from the navy department.

Suggestions are made by the secretary, of various improvements, which deserve careful consideration, and most of which, if adopted, bid fair to promote the efficiency of this important branch of the public service. Among these are the new organization of the navy board, the revision of the pay to officers, and a change in the period of time, or in the manner of making the annual appropriations, to which I beg leave to call your particular attention.

The views which are presented on almost every portion of our naval concerns, and, especially, on the amount of force and

The many distressing accidents which have of late occurred in that portion of our navigation carried on by the use of steam power, deserve the immediate and unremitting attention of the of those fatal disasters is constantly increasing, notwithstanding the great improvements which are every where made in the machinery employed, and in the rapid advances which have been made in that branch of science, show very clearly that they are in a great degree the result of criminal negligence on the part of those by whom the vessels are navigated, and to whose care and attention the lives and property of our citizens are go extensively entrusted.

That these evils may be greatly lessened, if not substantially removed, by means of precautionary and penal legislation, seems to be highly probable; so far therefore as the subject can be regarded as within the constitutional purview of congress, I earnestly recommend it to your prompt and serious considera

tion.

I would also call your attention to the views I have heretofore expressed of the propriety of amending the constitution in relation to the mode of electing the president and vice president of the United States. Regarding it as all important to the future quiet and harmony of the people that every intermediate agency in the election of these officers should be removed, and that their eligibility should be limited to one term of either four or six years, I cannot too earnestly invite your consideration of the subject."

Trusting that your deliberation on all the topics of general interest to which I have adverted, and such others as your more extensive knowledge of the wants of our beloved country may suggest, may be crowned with success, I tender you in conclusion, the co-operation which it may be in my power to afford them. ANDREW JACKSON.

Washington, 3d December, 1833.

Mr. Wardwell offered the usual resolution for supplying the members with papers: and

Mr. Grennell made the usual motion respecting the appointment of chaplains, (two, of different denominations), both of which were adopted.

And, on motion, the house adjourned.

Wednesday, Dec. 4. The case of Mr. Moore was discussed, on a motion made by Mr. Allan that the papers relating to the subject, and now in the hands of the clerk, should be read-which was supported by Messrs. Chillon, Marshall and Ellsworth, for the reason that the certificate exhibited was insuffi cient, being signed on behalf of only four sheriffs, though fire counties had voted at the election; and opposed by Messrs. Hawes, Lane, of Indiana, Beardsley and Polk, on the ground that the certificate was prima facie evidence of the election of Mr. Moore, and it was stated by one of the gentlemen that Mr. Letcher had not yet produced any certificate, or paper, to support his claims to the seat: but Mr. Allan said that the returns of the judges of the election, in the five counties, were on the clerk's table, and that these were among the papers which he wished might be read. [These returns shew that Mr. L. ob tained 3,191 votes, and Mr. M. 3,143.] After some further romarks, the opposition to the reading was withdrawn→