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T7- v** * ' , * '/'V ->^.-1 *0:: "S Jlaindcalw I. VAN SLYKS. E*it0f «xi Publisher. McHENRY, ':m ILLINOIS. X TV President's Annual Message* rull Text of the Document, jfm •attrand «• Conjprw" m Jlwitor, December 6. ,>Uk»w-Citiw»t«i of the Senate and House of Rep­ resentatives : I congratulate you oil the continued and in­ creasing prosperity of our country. By the ffcrorot Divine Providence we have beei^blessed. Awiwfr the past vear, with health, with abund­ ant harvests, with profitable employment for all oar people, and with contentment, at home, and with jh-sco and friendship with other nations. The oocurreniv of the twenty-fourth election of Chief Magistrate has afforded another op- rtunity to the people of the United States exhibit to the world a significant examplo Of the ]K*ac»ful and safe transmission of the 'power and fnthority of Government from the prifolie servant* whose terms of office are about to expire, to their newly-chosen success­ or*. This example cannot fail to impress pro- I vancement, find with this constant incentive to j exertion and improvement, • These iuvaluaole results have been attained | in a high degree in the offices where the rules i for appointment by competitive examination I have been apnlied. i A method which has so approved itself by ] experimental tests at points where such tests may be fairly considered conclusive should be extended to all subordinate positions under the Government. I believe that a strong and grow­ ing puHic sentiment demands immediate m< as- ures for securing aud enforcing the highest possible efficiency in the civil service, and its protection fro?n fy^cog?>is*ed abuses, nnd that the experience referred to lias demonstrated the feasibility of such measures. ' The examinations in the Custom Houses and Postoffices have been held tinder many embar­ rassments, and without prov sion for compen- sation for the extra labor performed by the of­ ficers who have conducted them, aud whose commends ble interest in the improvement of the public service has induced this devotion of time and lnbor whi'hout pecuniary reward. A continuance, of these labors gratuitously ought not to be expected, and without an appropria­ tion by Congress for compensation it is not practicable to extend the system of examinations generally throughout the civil service. It is also highly important that all such examinations should be conducted upon a uniform system and under general supervision. Section 1,753 of the Revised Statutes authorizes the Presi- January. 1878, which I expressed in my last annual Message, was disapi>oiiited. ' This answer was received only in the latter part of April ia the preseut year, and, when re­ ceived, exhibited a failure of accord between the two "Governments, as to the measure of j military the inshore-fishing privilege securred to our fishermen by the treaty of Washington, ol so serious a character that I made it the subject of a communication to Congress, in which I recommended the adoption of the measures which seemed to mo projjer to be taken by this Government in maintenance of the rights accorded to our fishermen under the treaty. and toward securing an iudemnii v for Use injnry these interests had t-nffemL A bill iO cfuij Out iiiwv iwiViuiixauaituao WttS UituiT consideration by the House of Representatives at the time of the adjournment of Congress in June Inst. Witlun a few weeks I have received a com­ munication from her Majesty's Government, renewing the'consideration of the subject, both of the indemnity for tho injuries at Fortune bay, and of the interpretation of the treaty in , which t!ie previous correspondence had shown- the two Governments to he' at variauce. Upon both these topics the disposition toward a friendly agreement is manifested by a recogni­ tion of our right to an indemnity tor the trans- In my last annual message I expressed the hopo that the prevalence of quietude on the border between this country and Mexico would soon hccome so assured a!s to justify the modi­ fication of tho order:', then in force, to our commanders, in regard to cross­ ing the frontier, without encouraging such disturbances as would endanger the peace of the two countries. Events movfed m accordance with these expectations, and tlie orders wera accordingly withdrawn, to the entire satisfaction of our citizens and the Mexican Govei nment. Subsequently the peace of the border was again distnrncd by a savage foray, under tho command of the Chief Victono, but. "y the com Lined and Harmonious actum of the military forces of both countries, his band has boon broken up and substantially de­ stroyed. ' There is reason to believe that the obstacles which have so long prevented rapid and con­ venient communication between the United States and Blexico by railways are on the point of disappearing, and that several important enterprises of this character w:il soon be set on foot which cannot fail^to contribute largely to the prosperity of both countries. New Envoys from Gimemala, Colombia, Bo­ livia, Venezuela and Nicaragua have recently arrived at this capital, whoso distinction nni age, health, character, knowledge, and ability, for the branch of service into which he seeks to enterbut the law is practically inoper­ ative for tho want of the requisite appropria­ tion. I therefore recommend an appropriation of $25,000 per annum to meet the expenses of fc , . commission, to be appointed by thePresident fo»ndiy thoughtful people of other countries in accordance with the terms of this section, with the advantages which republican institu- whose duty it shall be to devise a just, uniform tiMiH afford. The immediate, general and cheerful acquiescence of all good citizens in the mnilt x>f the election gives gratifying assurance to our country and to its friends throughout the world that a Government based on the free consent of an intelligent and patriotic people posfesses elements of strength, stability aud •mnnency not found m any other form of __rerntnent. Continued opposition to the full and free en- ar.d efficient system of competitive examina- tions, and to supervise the application of the same throughout the entire civil service of the Government. I am pursnaded that the facili­ ties which such a commission will afford for tenting the fitness of those wfco apply for office will not only be as welcome Mrmnncncy not iouna in any ouitr ionu ui a relief to members - of Congress as Government. ... it will l>e to the President and beads of depart­ ments. but that it will also greatly tend to re- joyment of the "rights of citizenship, conferred j move the causes of embarrassment which now upon the colored people by the rtcent amend- | inevitably ana constantly attend the conflicting ment# to the constitution, still prevails in sev­ en! of the late slave-holding States. It has, fwchaps, not been manifested in the recent election to any Urge extent in acts of violence or intimidation. It has, however, by fraudu­ lent practices in connection with the ballots, villi the regulations as to the place and manner Of votins, and with counting, returning, aud claims of patronage between the Legislative and Executive departments. The most effect- We have concluded and ratified a convention ual check upon tne pernicious comtietition of with the French republic for the settlement of influence and official favoritism in the best iwal claims of the citizens of either country against of office will lie the substitution of an open the other. Under this convention a com mis- competition of merit between the applicants, Bion, presided over by a distinguished publicist, in which every one can make his own record, appointed, iu pursuance of the request of both with the assurance that his success will depend | nations, by His Majesty, the Emperor postal communication seems necessarily a mat­ ter of common aud public administration, and thutt pertaining to government. I respectfully recommend to your prompt attention such jost and efficient measures as may conduce to the development of our foreign 'commercial ex­ changes and the building up of our carrying trade. In this connection I desire also to suggest the very greats service which might 1m; expected in enlarging and facilitating our commerce on the Pacific ocean were a transmarine cable 1-iid from San Francisoo to the Sandwich islands, and thence to Japan at tho north and Austra­ lia at tho south. The great influence of such means of • communication on these routes ,y0 ... „ A ; „ 4^ >. . - J vi uavi^ntiun, AM ucttuupiiig UUU securing the due share of our Pa­ cific coast in the commerce of the world needs no illustration or enforcement. It may be ihat such an enterprise, useful and in tho end profitable ns it would prove to private invest­ ment, may need to lie accelerated by prudent legislation by Congress in its aid, and 1 submit the matter to your careful consideration. An additional, and not unimportant,although secondary, reason for fostering and enlarging the navy may be found in the unquestionable • service to the expansion to our commerce, which would be rendered by tho frequent circulation of naval ships in the seas and ports of all quar­ ters of the globe. Ships of the proper construction and equipment, to be of the greatest efficiency in case of mari­ time war, might be made cons ant and active agents in time of* peace in the ad­ vancement and protection of our foreign trade, and in the nurture and discipline of young sen-' men, who would, naturally, iu some numbers, ... mix with and improve tho crews of our mer- for a speedy adjustment of the very serious di-! that purpose;- The treaty obligations sub- chant-ships. Our merchants' at home and yergenee of views in the interpretation of tho | sisting between the United States and Col- abroad recognize the value to foreign com- fisherv clauses of the treaty of Washington, j ombia, by which we guarantee the neutral- merce of an active movement of our naval ves- wluch, as the correspondence between the two | ity of the transit and the sovereignty sels, and the intelligence and patriotic zeal of Governments stood at the last session of Con- j nnd property of Colombia in the isthmus, our nav|l officers in .promoting every interest gress, seemed to be irreconcilable. make it necessary that the conditions under of their Countrymen is a just subjeBlof nation- Iu the important exhibition of arts and in- ] which so stn}>endous a change in the region i al pride. dustries, which was held last year at Sydney, , embraced iu this guarantee should be effected--j Tne condition of the financial affairs of the New South Wale?, as well as "in thit now In I transforming, as fr would, thin Isthmus, from a progress at Melbourne, the United States have j barrier between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, been efficiently and honorably represented. ! into a gateway and thoroughfare between The exhibitors from this country at the former j them, for the navies and merchant ships of the place received a large number* of • awards in wot-JUl--should receive the approval. of this some of tho most considerable departments, i Government, U0 being compatible1 and the participation of the United States, wns j the discharged of these obligations on rr cognized by a special mark of distinction. In i om" part, IM1 consistent with our the exhibition at Melbourne, the share tdienby j interests as* the principal com- our country is no less notable, and an equal de- i mercial power of the Western •gree of success is confidently expected. j hemisphere. The views tyhich I expressed in The state of peace aup tranquillity now en- I & special message to Congress in March last, iu joyed i>y all the nations of tlie continent of | relation lo this (iroject. I deem it my duty Europe has its favorable influence upon ottr ! again to press upon your attention. 8ubse- diplomatic and commercial relations with them, i quent consideration has but coufirmed tho action at Fortune bay, leaving the measure of 1 enlightenment afford tho lx*st guarantee of the such indemnity to further conference, and by an I,continuance of friendly relations between our- assenttotlu view of this Government, presented I selves and these sister republics. in the previous correspondence, that the regula- j The relations between this Government and tion of conflicting interests of the shore fishery j that.of ilie United States of Colombia have en- dent to prescribe the regulations for admission of the provincial seacoasts. and the vessel fish- ] gaged publ-c attention during the_ past year, to the civil service of the United States, and for j our fishermen, should be made the snb- j mainly bv reason of the project of an inter- been 82,276.492. The total amount coined tion and interchange arc the property Of the prior to the 1st of November last ^was $72,847,- nation. Its jurisdiction is paramount over their 750. Of tun smouut $17,081,450 remain in watery, and the plaintext principle# of public the treasury, and only f2o.9tj7.y91 are in the interest require their intelligent and careful- hands of tho people. A constant effort has supervision, with a view to their protection. lip ., , , - | supervision, wiui a view u> meir protection, been made to keep thu currency ia circu- | improvement, and the enhancement of their lation. aud considerable expense has been usefulness. riecessariiy incurred for this purpose, but | The channel of the Columbia river, for a its return to the treasury is prompt and j distauc ; of about 10'J miles from iU mouth, ia *-- obstructed by a succession of bars, which oc-sure. Contrary to the confident anticipation of the friends of the measure at tho time or its adoption, the value of tho silvor dollar, containing 412}^ grains of silver, has not in- Creased. Dnring the yoar prior to the passage of the bill authorizing its coinage, the market value of the silver which it contained was frera 30 to 02 ceuts, as compared with tho standard gold dollar. During the last vear the average market value of the silver dollar has been 88W ctnta. It is obvious thot the 'egislation ot tho last Congress in regard to silver, so far as it was based on an anticipated rise in the value of silver ns a result of that legislation, has failed to produce the effect then predicted. The longer the law remains in force, requiring as it does the coinage of a nominal dollar, which, in reality, is not a dollar, the greater becomes the danger that this country will be forced to ac­ cept a single metal as the sole legal standard of value, in circulation, and this a standard of less value than it purports to be worth in the recognized money of the world. Tho constitution of the United States, sound financial principles, aud our best interests, all require that the country should have as its legal- tender money both gold and silver coin, of an intrinsic value, as bullion, equivalent to that which, upon its face, it purports to possess. The constitution, in express terms, lecognizes both casion serious delays in navigation, and heavy expense for lighterage and towage. A depths of at least twenty fe«at at low tide should be so- cured and maintained, to meet the require­ ments of the extensive and crowing, inland and oaean eoratnerce :t subserves. The most urgent need, however, for this great water-way is a permanent, improvement of the channel at the mouth of the river. Prom Columbia river to San Francisco, a dis­ tance of over 6D0 miles, there is no hatbor on our Pacific coast which can be approached dur­ ing stormy weather. An appropriation of €*150,000 waB made bvthe Forty-littn Congress- for the commencement of a breakwAter and* harbor of refuge, to be located at some point between the Strait9 of Fuca and San Francisco, at which the necessities of commerce, locaP and general, will be best accommodated. I he amount appropriated is thought . ho quite inadequate for the purpose intended The cost Df the umk, when fiiushed, will be very gTeat, owiner to the want of natural advantages for a site at Any point on the coast between the designated lim­ its, and it has not been thought to be advisable to undertake the work without a larger appro­ priation. I commend the matter to the atten­ tion of Congress. The completion of the new building for the opinion " that it is the right and duty of the United gtates to assert aud maintain such supervision and authority over any inter- oceanic canal across the isthmus that connects North nnd South America as will protect our national interest." -- ,_ i , - , T, , . , • The war between the republic of Chili ou the canvassing the votes cast, been successtul m de- j upon this alone. j ot lirazil, has been organized and has begun { one hand, and the allied republics of Peru and testing the exercise of the right preservative of | I also recommend such legislation ap, while j its sessions in this city. A cougref-s to consid- i Bolivia oil the other, stiil continues. This Gov- all rights, the l ight of suffrage, which the con- ; leaving every officer as free as any other citizen , er means for the protection of iudustri.il prop- i eminent has not fc'it called upon to interfere ia w'ty has recently been iu session in Paris, to ! n, contest that «•» within the belligerent rights of Government, as shown by the report of the Secretary of the Treasury, is very satisfactory. It is believed that tho present fin tncial situa­ tion of the United St i«.s,. whether considered with respect to trade, currency, credit, growing with 1 wealth, or the extent end variety of our re- -- sources, is more favorable than that of any other country of our time, and has never been em passed by that of anv country at any period of its history. All our industries aro thriving ; tho rate of "interest i8 low; new railroads are lx'in<„' constructed ; a vast immigration is increasing our popula­ tion, caoital, and labor; new enterprises in great number aro in progress ; and our corn- gold and hilver as the only true legal-tender j War Department is urgently needeA. anrf thl money. To banish either of these metals from estimatis for continuing ifs SSicS Si our currency is to narrow and limit the eircu- ! especially recommended lating medium of exchange to the disparage­ ment of important interests. The United States produces more silver than any other coun­ try, and is directly interested in maintaining it as one of the two precious metals which fur­ nish the coinage of the world. It will, in my .C?P^r0B« ! JMe<Tic^lWM«8^m consist of 22,000 The collections of books, specimens &ndp records constituting the Army Medical Mu­ seum and Library are of national importance. Tho library now contains about 51,500 voinmea •Htntion expressly confers upon our enfran­ chises! citizens. It is tho desire of the good people of the whole country that sectionalism as a factor in our politics "should disappear. They prefer that no sec ion of the country should bo united ID solid opposition to any other scction. The disposition to refuse a prompt and hearty obo- dfcnce to the equal-rights amendments to the constitution is all that now stands in the way of a complete obliteration of section&l hues iu oar political couteste. As long as cither of these amendments. is flagrantly vio­ lated or disregarded, it is safe to assume that the people who placed them iu tbe constitution, as embodying the le­ gitimate results of the war for the to express his political opinions and to use his j means for their advancement, Shall also enable i him to feel as safe as any private citizen 1 in refusing all demands upon bis salary for j political purposes. A law which should thus i Weights and Measures also continues its work guarantee true liberty and justice to all who ! iu Paris. I invite your attention to the neces- are engaged in the public service, and likewise j s-ty of an appropriation to be made in time to contiiu stringent provisions against the use of official authority to coerce the political action of private citizens* or of official subordinates, id greatly to be desired. The most serious obstacle, however, to an improvement of the civil service, Mud esjiecLal- i ly to a reform in the method of appointment | and removal, has been found to be the prac- : tice, unJer what is known as the spoils system. . T, . , . . • . belligerent rights which I have appointed the Mnmters ot the j tho parties as independent states. We have, United States in 1"ranee and in lielgium as del- j however, always held ourselves in readiness to egates. The^Iuteruationai Commission upon | aid in accommodating their difference, and have at different times reminded both belligerents of our willingness to render such serviced Our good offices in this direction were re- by which the appointing power has been so Onion, and who believe them to ! largely encroached upon by members of Con- be wise aud neof ssarv, will continue to act to- j gress. The first step in the reform of the her, and to insist that they shall be obeyed, j civil service must be a complete divorce ; between Congress aud the Executive iu the matter of appointments. The cor-1 mpting doctrine that "to the victors lielong the spoils" is inseparable from Congres-1 SI e lie paramount question still is as to the jogroent of tbe right by every American citizen wfco has the requisite qualification to freely cast his vote and to have it houestlv counted. "With enable this Government to comply with its ob- j centlv accepted' by all the belligerent^"ind" it ligations under the Metrical Convention. , was hope ! they would prove efficacious ; but I Our iiiendly relations with the Crorman om-| r^r»'t to &unouuce that the measure* which pne continue without^ interruption. At the the Ministers of the United States at Santiago , rooent Iuteraatiomtl Lxhibition of Fish and land Lima were authorized to take, with the ' ri LiKuiritH, r.t Berlin, tho participation of the ' view to Lriug al>ont a pyact\ wore not huccchh- F L uitcu Stat*H, notwithstanding the lnutto with 1 till. In the oout 'isc of the war some cii estions F which the coinmitftiion was forced to niakeittfjhavofui8enaffeutingneiitr.il right# ; iu all of prepar ations, was extremely successful and , these tho Minister* of the United States have,, meritorious, winning for private exhibitors | under thoir instructions, acted with promptness nuir.eious awards of a high class, and lor the I and out r^v iu protection of American interest, country at large the principal prize of honor j The relations of the United States with tho offered by His Majesty, the Ein]>eror. ( empire of Brazil continue to be most cordial. The results ot this great success can- ; and their tommefcial intercourse steadily in- not but be advantageous to this important [ creases, to their mutual advantage. and growing industry. There h tve been ] The mterna.1 disorders with which the Argen­ tine questions raised between the two Govern- : tine Republic has for Pome time past been this que-tion rightly settled, the country will j sional patronage as the established rule aud I ments as to the proper effect and interpretation i nfflicfed, nnd which have more or "l.-ss intiu- be relieved of tlit* contentions of the past; by-I practice of parties iij, power. It comcs to be ; of our treaties of naturalization, but recent \ rnced its external trade, are understood to have IJOncK will indeed ix.' bygones, and political and ; understood "by a] iplicants for office, and by |*rty issues *ith res]>ect to economy and effi- • the people generaliy, that Representatives cipncy of administration, internal improve- ! and Senators are entitled fo disburse the •nente, the tariff, domestic taxation, educa- j patronage of their, respective districts and tion, finance and other important subjects j States. It is not necessary to recite at length will then receive their full share of atten- I the evils resulting from this invasion of the fMKt; but resistance to and nullification of j Executive functions. The true principles of (the results of the war will unite together in res- ; government on the subject of &piK)intments to olnte purpose for their support all who main- j office, as stated in the National Conventions of tain the authority of the Government and the j the leading parties of the couutrv, have again perpetuity of the Union, and who adequately j and again been approved by the American peo- •ppreeiate the value of the victory achieved. I pie, and have not been called in question in Tkis determination proceeds from no hostile j any quarter. These authentic expressions of •oniimenf or feeling to any part of the people public opinion upon this all-important subject of our countrv, or to any of their interests. ! are the statement of principles that belong Tke inviolability of the amendments rests upon '• to the constitutional structure of the Govern- tfae fundamental principles of our Government. ! ment. They are the solemn expression of the will of I "Under tbe constitution the President and tttt* people of the United States. i heads of departments are to make nominations . ^The sentiment that the constitutional rights j for office. The Senate is to advise aud consent m all our citizens must be maintained does not | to appointments, and the House of Repreaen- ttow weaker. It will continue to control the j tatives is to acouse and prosecute faithless ofti- Ckfveniinont of the country. Happily, the his- ; cers. The best interest of the public service tory of the late election shows that in many , demands that these distinctions be respected ; P>rts of the country where opposition to the ! that Senators and Representatives, who Jnfteentli amendment has heretofore prevailed I may be judges and accusers, should it-is diminishing, and ia likely to cease al- ] not dictate appointments to of- tqgether, if firm and well-considered ac- ! flee." To this end the co-operation of the Hon is taken by Congress. I trust the House j Legislative Department of the Government is of Eepresentatives^ and the Senate, which j required, alike by the necessities of the case fcve the right to judge_ of the elections, re- I aud by public opinion. M«mbersof Congress dispatches fiorn our Minister at Berlin suow ! been brought to a close. This happy result that favorable progress in making toward an 1 mav bo ixpected to redound to the benefit understanding, in accordance with the views of j of the foreign commerce of that republic as this Government, which makes and admits no | well as to the development of its vast interior distinction between the rights of a native and i resources. naturalized citizen of the United States. In tarns and qualifications of their own members, Hill see to it that every case of violation of the letter or spirit of the Fifteenth amendment is thorough ly investigate*], and that no benefit fkom Mich violation shall accrue to any person or party. It wiil be the duty of the Executive, with sufficient appropriations" for the purpose, to prosecute uusparin^lv all who have been en­ gaged in depriving citizens of the rights guar­ anteed them by the constitution. It is not, however, t > be forgotten that the *est and suiest guarantees of the primary j^fehts of citizenship is to l*> found in that ca- Cractice. the complaints of molestation suffered y naturalized citizens abroad have never been fewer than at present. There is nothing of importance to note in our unbroken friendly relations with the Gov­ ernments of Austria-Hungary, Russia, I'ortn- Durmg the last summer several vessels be­ longing to the merchant marine of this conn- ' try, sailing in neutral waters of the West In- i dies, were fired at, boarded, and searched by an armed cruiser of the Spanish Government. Tbe circumstances, i»s reported, involve not ouly a private injury to the per­ sons concerned, but also seemed too little observant of the friendly relations existing for i century between this country and Spain. merce with other countries is improving The ordinary revenues, from ail sources, for the fiscal year ended June 80, 1880, were : From customs $180,522,0f.4.fi() From internal revenue From sales of pnb'ic lands 1,0H>,50(1.60 From tax on circulation and deposits of national liank^ 7,014,971.44 From repayment of interest by Pacific railway companies 1,707,300.18 From staking fund of Pacific railway companies 78fi,G'21.22 From customs fees, tine", penalties,etc. 1,148,^00.16 From lees--consular, letters patent and lauds 2,337,029.00 From proceeds sales of Government property 282,615.50 From profitB on c.mnngf-, etc 2,702,18(5.78 From revenues of the Wstrlet of Co­ lumbia 1,809,469.70 From miscellaneous sources #,009,603.88 Total ordinary receipts ?333,526,610.98 The ordinary expenditures for the same pe­ riod were :. For civil expenses $ ir>,693,fl63..,»."> For foreign Intercourse 1,211,4!ill.5H FIT Inditing 5,945,457.01) For pensions, inc'uriing f19,341,025.20 arrears of pensions 56,777,174.44 For the military establishment, includ­ ing river ami liarbor improvement! aud arsenals 38,11G,P1G.22 For the naval establishment, including vessels, mac! linery aud improvements at navy yards 13,530,884.74 For miscellaneous expenditures, in­ cluding public buildings, iight- hou.:es, and collecting the revenue.. 34,535 C91.00 For expenditures on account of the District of Columbia 3,27'i,384.W:i For. interest ou the public debt 95,757..175.11 For premium ou bonds purchased 2,795,320.42 Total ordinary expenditures $267,642,957,78 Leaving a surplus revenue of $ 65,8W,'4f.20 Which, with au amount drawn from the cash balance in the treasury ot.. 8,(!8i,4;ii.21 and 57,000 pamphlets relating to medicine surgery aud allied topics, The contents of the «qnir.,s rhe^mge of_ silver do.lars, contain- pletoness with which both milita™ o„-_ ing only 412kj' grtvins of silver, and in its stead will authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to coin silver dollars of equivalent value as bull­ ion with g< Id dollars. This will defraud no man, and will be in accordance with familiar precedents Congress, on several occasions, has altered tlie ratio of value between gold and silver, in order to establish it more nearly in pery and illustrated. .. . military snr- the diseases of armies are Their destruction would be an irreparable loss, not oidy to the United States, but to the world. There are filed in the Record and Pension Division over 16,000 bound volumes of hospital records, together with a great quantity of papers, embracing the orig­ inal records of the hospitals of our armies dur- tw^n the two metals i tlui,civl1 wnr' AB1<Je frotu their historical ,^;ii 2 .. value, these records are daily searched for evi- i i 4Ve,1'y ™eaf?ire in the . donee needed in the settlement of large num- dire .on Sweater lidehty iu tho discharge of | bers of pension and other claims, for the pro- gov,,™,,, debtors are required to pay. and to increase the facility with which money "can bo obtained for will not be relieved from the demands made _ upon them with reference to appointments to ' the Government of Spain is, I how, approach office .until, by legislative enactment, the nor- • ing the termination of its b.l-om, uicious practice is condemned and forbidden. I The claims against the United States nndrr It is therefore recommended that an act be 1 tbe Florida treaty with Spain were snl mitted passed defining the relations of meuil>ers of j to Congress for its action at the Jatc session. Congress with reference to appointments to of- j and again invite your attention to the lon>'- fice by the President, and I also r< commend ; standing question," with a view to the final dis- that.the provisions of section 1,7(57, and of the . po-.it i.,n of the niatttr. pacitv for self-j rott ction which can It-long to a people whose right to universal suffrai; sections folio.ving, of the Revised Stututts, comprising the Tenrre-of-Oftice act, of March 2, lKfi7, be repealed. Believing ttiat to reform the system and >n'y i methods of the civil service in our -ountro is - . . . , , . c'^ia ' one of the highest and most imperative duties ••pported by universal education. Tlie means of st:.t< smansbip, a-ftd that it can be per- M the command of the local and State anthori- uianentlv done only bv the co-operatimi of tlie *** -8rt'»'n ®18"y cases, wholly inadequate to i Legislative and Executive Departments of the jfjirnir-h free instruction to all who need it. ; Government, I agairi commend the whoie sulv Tnw is esjx'ciallv tme where, before eman<-ipa- ! ject to votu: considerate attention. 'he education of the people was neglect- ; It is the rec ^gicz- d dutv and purpose of the 5 or preventetl, in the interest of slavery, people of the United States to suppress Xxrmly couvmced t.»at the subject of ]x>lygamv where it now exists in our Terri- pupular education deserves the earnest , toiies, and to T.rsSSnt its extension. Faitb- attentiou of the people of the whole s ful nnd zealous effurts have been made bv country, with a view to wise and ; the United St ites authorities in U ah to eu- CMnwrebe^ive action by the Government of | force the law# ag&inst it. Exi erience has fcSSSSL ^ n*ommend : shown that the legislation ujwn this subject, tt«t Congress, by suitable legislation and with t to be effective, requires extensive moJifica- f(mi»er safe-guards, supplement the local edu- i tion and amehdment. The longer action «lt,onal funds m the several 8tates where the i is delnyed, the nfiore difficult it will be to ac- AraveUutiM and responsibilities of citizenship complisli what is desired. Prompt and do B&V6 DC6^ nAVfilrAd rtf> ti>u^1iir>tij f. devoting lands, from ever popular general education is found, peace, virtue and tirn of ju^tcc. Exercismir as the order prevail, and civil and religious this sect do, the local political power'of"the ' n"uni.lCianW! V- •Kityan secure. _u : Territory, they are able to'make effe£ | ̂ tbe la my form, r annual messages, I have asked ; tive their hostility to the law of Con-! the attention of Congress to the urgent neces- j gr.ws on the subject pf polvcr.mv end' 2^ °» .1 reformation of the civil servi e sys- in fact, do prevent its enforcement. Poivamy temef the Government. My views concerning i will not !x- al-ohsbed if the enforcement, of the tlie dangers of patronage, or appointments for j law depends ou those who practice and uphold persona! or partisan conw-JeratiouH, have been the crime. It can only be suppressed by takin<* away the political power of the sect which en" courages and sustains it. The power of Con­ gress to enact suitable laws to protect the Ter­ ritories is am;.le. It i^ not a case of h<ilf-vav measures. The political power of the Mormon In Samoa, the Government of King Mali- ctoa, under the support and recognition of the Consular r. pres.-utatives of the United Making »• States, Great Britain and Germany, seems Wasappiied to^'theredemntioii-- j to have given peace and tranquillity to the | Of bonds for the siukiug fimd .'. $ 73,652,900.00 is and*. While it does not appear desirable j Of fractional currency •. 251.717.41 mil Sweden and Norway Witzeri&nd Tnrk..v !° a'loPt aB a whole the scheme of tripartite Of tbe loan of 1M8..." 40,ono.oo and Greece a id, Turkey government, .which has been proposed, Of temporary loan... 100.00 the common interists of the three great 1 ot bounty-land scrip 25.0,i treaty powers li qiire harmony iu their rela- ! Of comi>«und-iuterert notea 16,500.00 iianAKof a?d o'ono â dtw^jontnoies:;::;;:;:;:: this may be best- seJir. Aby a simple diplomatic of old demand notes. 495.00 agreement bet.we<*bem. It woiild be we),l if the Consular jtfriiWItion^f onrrepresftntnttvfi "•* v " /< $ 087.41 at Apia were increased in extent and import- j The amount due the sinking: fund for this ance so as to guard American interests in the year was $87,931,643.55. There was appliod surrounding and outlying islands of Oceanica. ] thereto the sum of $73,904,617.41, being #35,- _ The obelisk, gencruiisly presenttid l>y the ! 972,973.86 in excess of the actual requirements The wroiic was 1 r.niclit in »h«. ,ur/ nti m ,.e th , ! Kllwllvo of to the city of New York, has for tne year. Spanish Government in a s. r ous i rot.nt, and 1 arnvec! Mafl|y »' tins country, aud wilt soon be | The aggregate of tbe revenues from ali rei.ioiisirwe and the matter is niil.T-n f erected in that metropolis. A commission fi r sources during the fiscal year ended June 30, mve^ th" liquidation of the Egyptian debt was 8333,526.010.98, an mcief.se over thi i Ulely it* work,1 and this I preceding year of 859,699,426.52. The receipts ii ,i /•._ ..... * : Govenuue'it, at the earnest solicitation of | thus fan of the current year, together with t'io tho Khedive, has acceded to the provisions I estimated receipts for the'remainder, of the adoided i y it, v.lii ;h will be laid before Con- year, amount to f 35 t,0!j(),00l), wlpch will be gress for its information. A commission for sufficient to imwt the estimated expenditures tho revision of the judicial code of the reform of the year, and leave a surplns of $90,000,000. tribunal oj' Egypt is now in session at Cairo. It is fortunate that this large surplus ruveiiue Mr. I'Yrnuu). Consul General, and J. M. Batch- occurs at. a period when it may be directly ap- eldcr, E,q., have • been appointed as Comuiis- plied to the payment of the public debt soon to li.nters to participate in tins work. The organ- be redeemable. No public dntv has been more i/. itionof the retorm tribunals will probably be constantly cherished in the United States than continued for another period or five years. the policy of paving the nation's debt as rop- At.tho invitation of the Spanish Government, | 1,1 pursuance of the act passed at tho last ltUv as "ossible. a confer, nee has recently been hold at the. city ( of Congress, invitations have been ex- j Tbe debt of iha Utiitod States, leas cash in of Madrid to consider the subject of protec- tended to foreign maritime states to join in a j the treasury and exclusive of accruing interest, tion by forei.-n powers of native moois in ' 8'ul'tHry conference in Washington, beginning attained its mnsinium of 62,756.131,;')71.43 iu the empire of Morocco. The Minister ot | l8f of •hinuary. Tne acceptance of this | August, 1«65, an I has since that time been rc- invit tion by many prominent powers gives promi.ie of suc.'e-s m this linportiyit measure. designed to est iMish a systt in of internatiou:il liolilic ition by which tho spr» ad of infectious or epidemic diseases may ie more effectively chccked or pn.veiiti d. The atteMtion of Con­ gress is invited to tbe nectssarv appropriations every legitimate purpose. Our own recent financial history shows how surely money be­ comes abundant whenever confidence in the ex­ act performance of moneyed obligations is es­ tablished. * The Secretary of War reports that the ex­ penditures of the War Department for the fis­ cal year ended June 30, 1880, were 639,924,- 778.03. The appropriations for this depart­ ment., for the current fiscal year, amount to $41,993,630.40. With respect to the army, the Secretary in­ vites att< ntiou to the fact that its strength is limited by statute (Section 1,115, Revised Stat­ utes) to not more than 30,000 enlisted men, but that provisos contained in appropriation bills have limited expenditures to the enlistment of but 25,000. It is believed that full legal strength is the least possible force at which the present organization can bo maintained, having in view efficiency, discipline and economy. While the enlistment of this force would add somewhat to the appropriation for pay of the army, the saving mane in other respects would be more than an equivalent for this additional outlay, and the efficiency of the army would bo largely increased. The rapid extension of the railroad system west of the Mississippi river, and tho great tide of settlers which has flowed in upon new territory, imposo 011 the military an entire change of policy. Tho maintenance of small posts i.long wagon and stage routes of travel is no longer necessary. Permanent quarters at points selected, * character than tho ^ ^ ^ ^ ̂ ^ will be required. Under existing laws, per- j mates for the'm 'xt fiscal" ve^ "ending Tune 3o" manent buildings cannot bo erected without 1882, aro $15,9^3,851.61." The amount.drawn the sanction of Congress, and when sales of ~ - - • military sites and buildings have been author­ ized. tho moneys received have reverted frauds, as well as for the bent fit of honest claim­ ants. These valuable collect ions aro now in a building which is peculiarly exposed" to the dauger of destruction by tire. It is therefore earnestly recommended that an appropriation be made for a new fire-proof' building, ade­ quate for the present needs and reasonable future expansion of these valuable collections. Such a budding should be absolutely fire-proof no expenditure for mere architectural display is required. It is believed that a suitable structure can be erected at a cost not to ex­ ceed two hundred and fiftv thousand dollars. ($250,000). ' ; I commend to the attention of Congress the groat services of the Commander-in-Chief of our armies during the war for the. Union, whose, wise, firm, and patriotic conduct did so much to bring that momentous conflict to a close. The legislation of the United States contains, many precedents for the recognition of distin­ guished military merit, authorizing rank and emoluments to be conferred for eminent serv­ ices to the country. An act of Congress au­ thorizing tbe appointment of a Captaiu-Gener- al of the army, with suitable provisions relat­ ing to compensation, retirement, and other de­ tails, would, in my judgment, be altogether fit­ ting and proper, and would be warmly approved, by the country. The report of the Secretary of the Navy ex­ hibits the successful and satisfactory manage­ ment of that department during the" last fiscal' year. The total expenditures for the year were #12,916,039.43, leaving unexpended at the close of the year $2,141,082.23 of the amount. , , . , of available appropriations. Tho appropria- solected, of a more substanti d ] t'ons for tho present fiscal vear, ending June than those heretofore constructed. | 30, 1881, are $15,035,061.45 ; and the total esti- to the treasury, aud could ouly become avail­ able through a new appropriation. It is recom­ mended that provis.on be made, by a general statute, for the sale of such abandoued military posts and buildings as are found to be unneces­ sary, and for the application of the proceeds to the construction of other posts. While many of the present posts am of but slight value for military purposes, owiulj to the changed condi­ tion of the country, their occupation is contin­ ued at great expense and inconvenience, be­ cause they afford tho only available shelter for troops. Tbe absence of a large number of officers of the line, in active duty, from their regiments is a si rious detriment to tbe maintenance of the service. The constant demand for small de­ tachments, each of which should be command- be e died f;>r bv the facts. Tbe commission sitting in this city for the rdjudieat.ion of claims of our citizens' against by warrant from July 1, 1880, to Nov. 1, 1880, is $5,041,570.45. Tho recommendation of the Secretary of the Navy, that provision be made for the estab­ lishment of some form of civil government for tbe people of Alaska, is approved. At present there is no protection of persons or property in that Territory, except such as is afforded by the officers of the United States ship James­ town. This vessel was dispatched to Sitka, because of the fear that, without the immediate presence of the national* authority, there was impending danger of anarchy. The steps taken to restore order have been accepted in good faith bv both white and Indian inhabitants, and the neces­ sity for this method of restraint does not, in my opinion, no* exist, ir, however, tbe James­ town should be withdrawn, leaving the people, as at present, without the ordinary judicial and administrative authority of organized local •*4. Ihe United Stales, in Spain wi's directed j to take part in the de.iheraiions of ; th:s conference, the result, of which is ac >nven- j tion signed on behalf of all the. powers re'pre- j seut< d. The iiistnimcji' will l e 1 jd before the 1 Senate for irs c 'iisi'leiation. Tho Government | of the United States has lost no oppottuuiiv to ditced to $1.KS0.019,504.65. Of the principal of the debt i>103,75N 100 has been paid since March 1, J877. effecting an annual naving of interest of $6,107,593. The burden of interest has also been diminished by the sa'c of bouds bc iring a low rate of interest, and the applica­ tion of the proceeds to the redemption of*bond* hearing a higher rate. The annual savimr thus secured since March 1, 1877, is 1*14,290,453.50. Within a short i>erio4 over $600,000,000 oi 5 arid (>-per-cent. bonds will become redeemable. to the alteration of urge upon that of the Emperor oi Morocco the : ,ot' C:UT.vi»K nitoeffoet the provisions of the act. neces ity, in accordance with tho humane and ' efforts of the 1) partment of Stvte to enlightened spirit of the age, of put.u'ng an end ' e*1'il'k'e th(; trude aud commerce or the United to the persecutions, which have i een so preva- ! Sc v.es. through the aelivw s gencv of Consular lent 111 that conutrv, of persons of a faith o ber ' ot"('('rH U'rr ugh the dissemination of in- i This presents a very favorable opportunity not than the Moslem." and especially of the He- i formation o'jt:.in«l from th. ni, have been 1111- | only to further reduce tho prin ipil of' the brew r< sidents of Morocco' relaxed. Tho interest iir these efforts, as de- debt, but also to redticc therate of interest 011 e 1 / ,ovv",« j means to the trade and manufacture* of the word 111 the text by the country, were reco0nized by Congress at a si oned j itn last session, and provision was ; made for the more frequent, pubhea- asked to , tion of Consular and other reports , by the D partm§rit of State. The first issue oi es,ra* | this publication has nosv been uren ired, and a" oMect;on of ill.. IVnnwfc Jlie ! stib equeiit issues may regularly'be" expected. < d by a commissioned oittcer, and tlie^ various j government, serious consequences might ensue, details of officers for necessary service away The laws provide only for the collcction of from their commands, occasions a scarcity in revenue, the protection of public property, the number required for company duties. 1 and tho transmission of the mails. The prob- With a view to lessening this drain to some | lem is to supply a local rule for a population so- extent, it is recommended that the law author- j scattered and so peculiar in its origin and con- izing the detail of officers from the active list I dition. The natives are reported to be teacha- as professors of tactics and military science at j ble and self-supporting, and, if properly in- certmn colleges and universities bo so amended j structed, doubtless would advance rapidly in as to provide that, all such details be made from | civilization, rnd a new factor of prosperity the retired list of the armj*. j would be added to the national life. I, there- Attention is asked to the necessity.of pro- i fore, recommend the requisite legislation upon viding by legislation for organizing, arming, | subject. and disciplining tbe artiw militia of the coun- ; The Secretary of the Navy has taken steps | try, and liberal appropi iitions are recommended ' toward the e.stnllidimeut of naval coaling- I iu this beh: lf. The reports of the Adjutant stations at the Isthmus of Panama, to meet the requirements ot our commercial relations with Central nnd South America, which are rapidly growing 111 importance. I,oc.\tions eminently suitnb e. both as regards our naval purposes and the uses of commerce, h'tvo tieen selected, one 011 the east side of the isthmus, at Chiriqni I.ngoon, in the Carribbesn sea, and the other on the Pacific coast, at the Biyof Goltito, iljllta General of the army »uid tho Chief of Ord­ nance touching this subject fully set forth its importance. The report of the officer in charge of educa­ tion in the army shows that there are seventy- eight schools now in operation in the army, with an aggregate attendance of 2,805 enlisted jnen and children. Tho Secretary recommends Ihe enlistment of 150 schoolmasters, with the | The only sale harbors, suftiiientiy commodious, rank and pay of Commissary Sergeants. An | on the isthmus are at these points, arid the appropriation is needed to supply tlie Jud^e strengthened by my observation and experi- ctice in tlie Executive office, and I believe these dangers threateu the stability of tlie Govern­ ment. Abuses so serious in their nature can- Jot be permanently tolerated. They tend to become 1 . more ahnmug with thecnlargement of • sect is increasing ; h controls now one of our 1 •Omu.L trative service, as the growth of the wealthiest and most populous Territories ! Cjmiiny in population increases the number of 1 It is extending steadily into other T«rri- 1 #lhw;rs and placemen employed. tories. Wherever it goes it establishes po- «rf^R*nae«*i>,l!Vare ™Perative for the adoption lygamy and se^arian political power. The! « axed rules f >r the regulation of appoint- | sanctity of mamageund the familv relation are : • nmfo^metiKKi8 I8nd- removH'H<j the corner-stone of our American society and1 • mailorm method, having exclusively 111 view, civilization. Religious liixjrtv and the sen-ra- tiStK1^ 11" atta,»;neQt of the best : tion of church and state aro among the1 ele- I -'2ueliam!£!!!U position in question. : mentarv ideas of free institutions. To re-es- ••!52a i^hW COUK1^c"1 with the j tabiish tho interests and principles which po- ! 2SSS.. 1 « citizens, and the most eco- . lvgamy au l Mormonism have imoerilU d and to 1 ,£s eat ttdm,W,,triltiou«f the pub- ! reopen to intelligent and virtno^ imlm- .. . i grants of all creeds that part of our d irmiii «npetitive examinations, in aid of impartial : which has been, in " «>rointments and promotions, have been con- for Borne veai-H pant in 8cvc!ol ot' tbe B^ecutive Departments, nnd by mv direction svBiein linn b<en adopted m the Custom Bous<* i nd Postoftie- s of the larger cities of the eountry. In the city of New York over f# thousand po-it'.ons in tbe civil Kervice have •ecu Bubj»r<t, iu their . itrmir. ,#»\ ncies great de;;ree, clwd to general immigration by iufoier:;r:t, and imtnordl in stitutions, it is recommended that ihe Gov­ ernment of the Territory of Utah be reorganized. I recommend that Congress I'rovi.ii- tor the government of Utah by a Governor and Judge- - or Commissioners, appointed by tbe President and confirmed by the Senate--a gov: rnnient tfVMtfirtued my opinion «r selection. All are 't^lhe^ ^ juriesTn t'h;.;i^i. prejudice by ; practice nor uphold""Sre'tiyTlT iho^S ; measures are adopted, it is believed that within of, China, ou subje ts of great interest to the relations of the two countries, enabled the Commissioners to proceed at once upon their mission. The " ' ' ~ pared to give tion to tho matti tion, aud tbe such rapidity and November last, two treat es were signtid I'ekin, one relating to th<; introduction of Chi­ nese into this country, and one relating to com­ merce. Mr. Trescot, one of the Commissioners, is now on his way homo bringing the tre-ities. and it is expected that they will be received in season to be laid before the Senate early in January. Our Minister iu Japan has negotiated a con­ vention for the reciprocal relief of shipwrecked seamen. I take occasion to «rge once more upon Congress the propriety of making provis­ ion for tbe erection of suitable tiro-proof build­ ings at tbe Japanese capital for the use of the American legation, and the Couit House and jail connected witli it. Tlie .Japanese Govern­ ment, with uri'at ^.-i:eros:ty and courtesy, has offered for this purpose an eligible piece of land. In mv last annual messnge I invited the at­ tention of Congress to the subject of tho in­ demnity funds received some years ago from China and Japan. 1 renew tlie recommenda­ tion then made, that whatever portions of tlieso right j funds are due to American citizens should l*» promptly paid, and the residue returned to the commend itself to your consideration. The prosperous energies of our domestic in­ tention of Congress to the views expressed 011 this subject by the Secretary of the Treasury in bis annual report, and recommend prompt, action, to enable the Treasury Department to complete the refunding of the debt which is ab 'lit to miture. Tbe continuance of specie payments has not been intenupted or end-mgcri d since llie date of resumption. It has contributed greatly to the revival of business and to our remarkable prosjienty. The fears that preceded and ac­ companied resumption have proved ground­ less. No considerable amount of United States notes have been presented for redemption, while very largo sums of gold bullion, both domestic and imported, are taken to the mints and exchanged for coiu or notes. The in­ crease of coin and bullion in the United States since Jan. 1, 1879, is estimated at $227,399 428. There are still in existence, uncancelled, tender j Advocates of the army with suitable libraries, j and the Secretary recommends that thecorp-; of Judge Advocates be placcd upon the same foot- I ing as to promotion with the other staff corps ! ot the army. Under the existing laws the Bureau of Military Justice consists of one ot'- points. and the distance between them is less than 100 miies. Tbe report of tbe Secretary of the Navy con­ cludes with valuable suggestions with respect to the building up of our merchant-marine service, which deserves the favorable consider­ ation of Congress. j The report of the Postmaster General exhib- ficer,tlie Judge Advocate General, and the corps 1 uie continual growth and the high state of of Judge ̂ Advocates, of eight othcers ot equal efficiency of the postal service. The operations rank (Majors), with a provision that the limit "" - - of the corps shall r<mt.iu at four, when reduced by casualty or resignation to that number. The consolidation of the Bureau of Military Justice and tiio corps of Judge Advocates, upon the same basis with the other staff corps of the army, would remove an unjust discrim­ ination against deserving officers, and suiiserve tho best interests of the service. Especial attention is asked to the report of of no department of tlie Government, perhaps,, represent with greater exactness the increase in population and the business of the country. In 1860 the postal receipts were $8,518,068.40 - in 1880 the receipts were $33,315,479.34. All the inhabitants of tlie country «re di­ rectly and personally interested in hav­ ing proper mail facilities, and naturally watch the postoffico very closely.. This carofnl oversight 011 tin? part of tlie peo- the Chief of Engineers upon the condition of j pit: has.proved a constant stimulus to iniprove- our national defenses. From a personal in- ment. During the past year there was an in­ crease of 2,134 post offices, and tho mail routes were extended 27,177 miles, making an oddi- South Ameii'T, -wi'.h the West Indies and the Gulf ot MoNi"o should be direct, and not | tlirougli tbe ci cni; of European systems, } I and should oe earned on in our own bottoms, i Hie lull appreciation of tlio opportunities i which our front 011 tie; Pacific, eccan -ives to I commerce with Japan,China imd the East Indies, ! with Australia and the island groups which lie j along the routes of navigation, should inspire j equal efforts to appropriate to our own ship­ ping, aud to administer by our own capital, a ' due pro[K»rtiou of this tr idc. Whatever inoditi- i cations of our regulations of trade and navign- I tion liiuv be necessary or and direct these impulses n^nt of our exchanges and of our car­ rying tmtle, I .-mi sure tiie wisdom of Congress will be warty to supp'v. I One initial measure, however, seems to be. sojolenily use­ ful and eiii lent that I venture* to ices--, tt upon your c:irti' st .attention. It s-enn to bo verv evident that the provision of regular ste.'un postal comimnucfdion. by aid from Govern­ ment, has been tlie forerunner of the commer­ cial pmloiuinan e of (treat. Britain ou all these oasts and seas, a greater share 111 whose tr d * pern >nal favor or partisan influence. It .flpwiuie-tkma attainable among the competingoV.t ILt'iU„wlU tfe procure of importunity, which, under , ous and attractive of the new States of tiie •ny other course pursued, largely exacts ; Union. states or tne time and atten iou of appointing | Our relations with all foreign countries have jfceers to their Rreut detriment in 1 teen those ot un iuturhed pea^ an t haJe ge diKJ,a»Tg« of otiier official dut.es, prevent- ! presented no occasion for coLo^'as to theh m: the atmse of the st rvice tor the mere fur- | continued maintenan e ^er._i;oc of private or party purposes, and 1. av- ! My anticipation of in- ! peudeut sovereignty of Itounama. nations, resiieciiv. ly, to which they justly und is no>v the di suv and intent of our peo-ile It eqnita!Iy belong. ' | is also ur-nilest that, the efforts of oilier Eu- Tbe extridition treaty with the kingdom of J ropcati nations to contend with Great Br taui the Nether'ands, wbich nas bcten for some time ! for a share of this commerce have in course of nego iation, has. during tho past been suceoslul in proportion with their year, 1**11 concluded and duly r-itcied. 1 adoption of regnl»r steam-postal communica- 'Relations of friendship ami amity have been i tion w';tb tbe markets whose »r.t<le they sought, established between the Government of the | Mexico and tho states of South America are United States and that of lloiiiiiania. Weliavo | aniious to receive such postal communications sent a diplomatic representative to Bucharest, ! with this.country, and to aid in their develop- and have received at this capital the special ] ment. Similar co operation may be' looked • ] Envoy who las been charged by bis Bo-al ; for, in due time, from the Eastern ntions tl«e_employe of tbe'Goverum'ent, freed from ! BritishToven^ment to the difmand'^f 1>rl,',c'. ('UiU'k'R t? ^""usicotho in<ie- J and fr .m Austrdi,. It is diffi lilt to see how fin:tz;J3KguSwSjit'&SS,uifs SKip,lv"° • W ' Wo hope J the, lend iu this movement can lie exacted from private interests. Iu re pect of foreign commerce, quite as much as in luternat uaute, nation's existence respiired, in the judgment of Congress, an issue of legal-tondt r paper money. That it served well the purpose for which' it was created is not questioned, but the employment of the notes as pa per money indefinitely, after the accomplishment of tho object for which they were, provided, was not contemplated by the trainers of the law under which they were issued. These notes long since la-came like any other pecuniary ob­ ligation of the Government--a debt to be pi:id, and, when paid, to be cancelled as mere evi­ dence of an indebtedness no longer existing. | i I, therefore, repent what was said in the annual tn /• j „ i Message of lost vear, that the retirement from u " ' circulation of United States notes, with the eapaeiiv of legal tender in private contri-cts. is a step to bo token in our progress toward a safe and stable currency, whim should be accepted ns the policy and duty of the Gov­ ernment and the interest and security of the jHjople. "'At the time of the passage of tee set now iu fore- requiring the eoiivtro of silver do'lars, fixing their value and givjnx them legal-t< nder chan'cier, it was Relieved' by nnmy of the sup­ porters of tbe measure that tho silver dollir. which it authorized, would s .eedily become, under the operations of the law, of equivalent value to the gold dollar. There were other supporters of the lull, who, while they doubted us to the probability of this result, nevertlielei-s were willing to give the proposed experiment a fair trial, with a viaw to stop tho coinage, if exiW^.ence should prove that tbe silver dollar authorized by the bill continued to l>e of less commercial value than the standard gold dollar. lhecoi'iage of i-ilver dollars, under the act referred to, began in March, 1«78, and has t een continued as required by the act. Tlie average rate per mouth to the present time nas spection of many of the fortifications referred to, tbe Secretary is able to emphasize the rec­ ommendations made, and to state that their incomplete aud defenseless condition is dis­ creditable- to the country. While other nations have been increasing their means for carrying on offensive wart are and attacking mar­ itime cities, we have been dormant in preparation for defense; nothing of irn- tional anuual transportation of 10.804,191 miles. The revenues of t he postal service for the en­ suing year are estimated at $88,845,174.10 and the expenditures at $42,475,922, leaving a defi­ ciency-to be appropriated out of the treasury of $3,630,757.9 ). The Universal Postal Union has received the portanee has been done toward strengthening 1 accession of almost all the countries and and finishing our casemated works since our colonies of the world maintaining organized late civil war, during which tbe great guns I postal services, and it. is confidently expected of modern warfare and the heavy armor of j that all the other countries and colonies now I modern fortifications and ships came into , outside the Union will soon unite therewith, use among the nations, and onr earthworks i thus realizing the grand idea and aim of the left, by a sudden failure of appropriations 1 founders of the Union, of forming, for pur- seme years since, in ali stages of incotuple- : po<es of international mail communication, tion, are now being rapidly destroyed by the j a single postal territory embra. ing tho world, elements. | wi'li complete unit'ore" ity of postal charges, The t'o great rivers of the North American 1 and conditions of international exchange, for continent, the MississWi aud the Columbia, \ »» (h^cripti-.ns of correspondence. To enable have their navig ble voters wholly within the limits of the United States, and are of vast im­ portance to our internal and foreign commerce. The peinianencvl of the important work 011 tlie South pass of the Mississippi river seems now to be assured. To ere has been no failure vvh devei inthe mainteu* nee of <lu mawimi.o channel during the six months ended Aug. 9 la*t. This expel iaieut has opene d a broad, deep highway to the ocean, and i-i an improvement, upon tho permanaut success or wlich congratulations mav be exchanged among people abroad and at home, and tbeUi i ed States to do its full share of this gn at work, adei'i >n; l legisiatiou is* askod by tho Postmaster General, to whoso recommen­ ds! ions especial attention i< called. . Tlie suggestion of the Postmaster General, tliat it would be wise to encourage, by appropri­ ate legislation, the establishment of" American hues of steamers by our own citizens, to carry the mails between our own ports and tlios<) of Mexico, Central America, South America, and of transpacific countries, is commended to the- seri us consideration of CoPgress. Tuo atteution of Congress is also invited to- e-pe j lly among the commmiith* of the 1 the su-gestious of the Posmaster General in valley, whoso ex- ! to pu&uil navingH. changes float iu an unobstructed chan- ; ik rvssuv for additional provision, to aid lid safely to niid from tho hoh. i *** , ^ tnuiKu lion of the busiuo-s of the F^d- A comprehensive improvement of the Mis- • ®rai cwurts, becomes each year more apparent, sissippi and its tributaries is a matter of trau- I '"u d'»c'<ets of the Supreme Court and of the Kcendnut importance. . These ^rcnt waterways I C.rcuit Courts, in the greater number of tho comprise a system of inland transportation ' circuits, are incumbered with the constant ao- spread like net-work over a large portion of I '"ession ol cases. In the former court, and in - - - - - * m a n y i n s t a n c e s i n t h o C i r c u i t C o u r t s , y e a r s i n ­ tervene before it is practicable to brine cases to lieai ing. t ho United Slates, aud navigable to the extent of many thousands of miles. Producers and consumers alike have a common interest fti such nnequaled facilities for cheap transportation. Geograph­ ically, commercially and politically they are the strongest tie between the vanors sections of tho country. These channels of communica- Tbe Attorney General recommends the establi hnient of an intermediate court of errors and appeals. It is recommended that the number of Judges of the Circuit Court in each circuit, with the pxcepttoa of'