Democratic Sentinel, Volume 3, Number 43, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 5 December 1879 — THE MESSAGE. [ARTICLE]

THE MESSAGE.

Annual Communication of President Hayes. Read to Congress on Monday, Deo. 1. Fellow-Citizens or the Senate and House or Represent ativjis : The members of the Forty-sixth Congress hare assembled in their first regular session under circumstances calling for mutual congratulations and .grateful acknowledgement to the Hirer of all good for the large and unusual measure of national prosperity which we now enjoy. The- most interesting events which hare ocourred in our public affairs since my last annual message to Congress are conneotel with the financial operations of the Government directly affecting (he business interests of the country. Resumption. I congratulate Congress on the successful execution of the Resumption act. At the time fixed, and in the manner contemplated by law, United States notes began to be redeemed in oom. Since the Ist of January last they have been prompt y redeemed on presentation, and in all business transactions, pubiio and private, in all parts of the country, they are received and paid out as the equivalent of coin. The demand upon the treasury for gold and silver in exchange for United States notes has been comparatively small, and the voluntary deposit of coin and bullion in exchange for notes' has been very large. The excess of tho precious metals deposited or exchanged for United States notes over the amount of United States notes redeemed is about #40,000,000. The resumption of specie payments has been followed by a very groat revival of bueioess. With a currency equivalent in value to the money of the commercial world, wo are enabled to enter upon an equal competition with other nations in trade and production. Tho increasing foreign demand for our manufactures and agricultural products has caused a large balance of trade in onr favor, which has been paid in gold, from the Ist of July last to Nov. 15, to the amount of about #59,000.000. Public Credit. Sinoe the resumption of specie payments there has been a marked and gratifying improvement of the public credit. The bonds of the Government bearing only 4 per cent interest have sold at or above par, sufficient in amount to pay off all of the national debt which was redeemable under the pretext laws. The amount of interest saved annually by tho process of refunding the debt since March 1, 1877, is #14,297,177. The bonds sold were largely in small sums, and the number of our citizens now holding the public securities is much greater than ever before. The amount of tho national debt, which matures in less than two years, is #792,121,700, of whioh #500,000,000 bear interest at the rate of 5 per cent. It is behoved that •this part of the pubiio debt can be refunded by the issue of 4-per-cent, bonds, and by the roduclion of interest which will thus bo effected about #11,000,000 can bo annually saved to the treasury. To lecure this important reduction of interest to be paid by the United States, furthor legislation is ro quired, which it is hoped will bo provided by Congress during its piosent session. The eoinage of gold by tho mints of tho United States during tho last fiscal year was #40,980,912. Silver Coinage. The coinago of silver dollars since tho pass age of the act for that purpose up to Nov. 1, 1679, was #45,000,850, of which #12,700,841 havo beou isauod fn m the treasury, and are now in circulation, aud #82,300,500 are still in the possession of the Government. The pendency of the proposition for uni y of action between the United States and the principal commercial nations of Europe to effect a permanent system for the equality of gold and silvor in tho recognized money of the world, leads me to recommend that Congress refrain from new legislation on the general subject. The great icvivai of trade, internal and foreign, will supply during the coming year its own instructions, whioh may well be awaited be'ore attempting further experimental measures -with the coinage. 1 would, however, sironglv urge upon Congress the imporlauoe of authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to suspend tho coinage of silver dollars upon the present legal ratio. Tho market value of the silvor dollar being uniformly and largely less than the market value of Ihe gold dollar, it is obviously impracticable to maintain them at par with each other if both aro coined without limit. If tho cheaper coin is forced into circulation it will, if coined without limit, becomo the sole standard of value, and thus defeat the desired object, which is a currency of both gold and silver, whiehshall be of equivalent value, dollar for dollar, with tt;e universally-recognized money of the world. Legal Tenders. The retirement from circulation of United States notes, with the capacity of legal tender in private conlracts, is a step to be taken in our progress to a fair and stable currency, which should be accepted as the policy And duty of the Government and tho interest and security of the people. It is my firm conviction that the issue of the legal-tender paper money, based wholly upon the authoiity and credit of the Government, except in extreme emergency, is without warrant in the constitution, and a violation of sound financial principles. The issue of United States notes during the late civil war, with the capacity of legal tender between private individuals, was not authorized except as a means of rescuing the country from imminent peril. The circulation of these notes as paper money for any protracted period of time after the accomplishment of this purpose was not contemplated by the framers of the laws under which they were issued. They anticipated the redemption and withdrawal of these notes at tho earljest practicable period consistent with the attainment of tho objeot for which they were provided. Sinking Fund. • The policy of the United States steadily adhered to from the adoption of the constitution has been to avoid the creation of a national debt, and when, from necessity, in the time of war, debts have been created, they have boon been paid off on the roturn of pease as rapidly as possible. With this view, and for this purpose. it is recommended that tho existing for the aocumuUtion of a sinking fun I'sufficient to extinguish the public debt within a limited period be maintained. If any change of the objects or rates of taxation is deemed necessary by Congress, it is suggested that experience has shown that a dniy can bo pi iced on tea and coffee which w 11 not enhance the price of those articles ti the consumer, and which will add several millions of dollars annually to the treasury. The Suppression ol Polygamy. The continned deliberate violation by a large number of the prominent and influential citizens of the Territory of Utah of the laws of the United States for the prosecution and punishment of polygamy demands the attention of every department of the Government. This Territory has a population sufficient to entitle it to admission as a State. The general interests of the nation, as well as the welfare of tho citizens ot the Territory, require its advance from the Territorial form of Government to the responsibility s and and privileges of a State. This important change will not, however, be approved by the country while the citizens of Utah, in very considerable number, upheld a practice which is condemned as a crime by the laws of all civilized communities throughout the world. The law for the snppi eesion of this offense was enacted with great unanimity by Congn ss more than seventeen years ago, but has remained until recently a dead letter in the Tei ritory of Utah because of the peculiar difficulties attending its enforcement. The opinion widely prevailed among the citizens of Utah that the law was in contravention of the constitutional gnar antee of religions freedom. This objection is now removed. Tho Supreme Court of the United States has derided the law to be within the legislative power of Congress, and binding, as a rule of action, for all who resided within the Territories. There is no longer any reason t< r delay or hesitation in its enforcement. It should be firmly and effectively executed. If not sufficiently stringent in its provisions, it shonld be amended, and, in aid of the purpose in view, I recommend that more comprehensive and more searching methods for preventing as well as punishing this crime be provided. If necessary to secure obedience to the law, the enjoyment and exercise of the rights and privileges of citizenship in the Territories of the United States may be withheld or withdrawn from those who violate or oppose the epfpfcement of the law on this

Popular Bight*. The elections of tho past year, though occupied only with State offices, have not failed to elicit, in the political Discussions which attended them all over the country, new aud decisive evidence of the deep interest which the great body of citizens take in the progress of the c ran try toward a more general and complete establi-h ment, at whatever cost, of universal security and freedom In the exercise of the elective franchise. While many .topics of political concern demand great attention from onr people, both in tho sphere of National and State authority, I find no reason to qnalify the opinion I expressed in my last annual message, that no temporary or administrative interest'* of Government, however urgent or weighty, will ever destroy the zeal of our people in de fence of the primary rights of citizenship, and that the power of pubiio opinion will override all political prejudices and all sectional and State attachments in demanding that all over our wide territory the name and character of cidzons of the United States shall mean one and the same tbing.and cairy with them uniliallenged security and respect. I earnestly app ca 1 to the intelligence and patriotism of all good citizens of every part of 'the country, however much they may ba divided in opinions on other political subjects, to unite in compelling obedience to existing laws aimed at the protection of the right of suffrage. I respectfully urge upon Congress to supply any defects in these laws which experience has shown, and which it is within its power to remedy. I again invoke the co-operat : on of the Executive and Legislative authorities of ihe States in this great pnrpose. I am fully convinced that if the public mind can be set at rest on this paramount question of popular rights, no serious object will thwart or delay the complete pacification of tho country, or retard the general diffusion of prosperity. Clvll-Servlce Reform. In a former message I invited the attention of Congress to the subject of the reformation of the civil service of the Government, and expressed the intention of transmitting to Congress, as early as practicable, a report upon this subject by the Chairman of the Civil Sotvice Commission. In view of the fact that during a considerable period the Government of Groat Britain has been dealing with administrative problems and abuses in various particulars analagous to those presented in this country and that, in recent years, the measures adopted were understood to have been effective and in every respect highly satisfactory. I thought it desirable to have fuller information upon tho subject, and accordingly requested the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission to make a thorough investigation for this purpose. The result has been an elaborate and comprehensive report. Tho report sets forth the history of the partisan spoils system in Great Britain, and of the rise" and fall of the Parliamentary patronage, and of official interference with the freedom of elections. It shows that, after long trials of various kinds of examinations, those which are competitive and open on equal terms to all, and which are carned on under the superintendence of a tingle commission, have with great advantage been established as conditions of admission to almost every official place in the subordinate administration of that country aud of British India. Tho completion of the report, owing to the extent of tlje labor involved in its preparation, and the omission of Congress to make any provision either for the compensation or the expenses of tho commission, has been postponed until the present time. It is herewith transmitted to Congress. While tho measures of another Government are of no an hority f6r us, they are entitled to influence to the extent to which their intr nsic wisdom and their adaptation to our institutions and social life may commend thi mto our consideration. Tho views I hare heretofore expressed concerning tho defects and abuses in our civil administration remain unclnnged, except in so far as an enlarged experience has opened my sense of the duty both of officers and of the people themselves to co-operate for their removal. The grave ovilsand perils of a partisan-spoils system of appoint i ent to office and office tenure are now generally recognized. In the resolutions of the great narties, in tbe reports of dopa tments, in tho debates and proceedings of Congress, in the messages of Exccut.ves, the gravity of these evils lias been pointed out, and the need of their re'orm lias been admitted. To command the' necessary support, every measure of reform must bo based on common right and justice, and must be compatible with the healthy existence of great parties, which aro inovitabls and essential in a free state. When the people have approved a policy at a national election, confidence on the part of tho officers they have selected, and ol the ad visors who, in accordance with our political institutions, should be consulted in the policy which it is their duty to carry into effect, is indispensable. It is eminently proper that, they shonld explain it before the people, as well as illustrate its spirit in the performance of their official duties. It hardly need be pointed ouj that very different considerations apply to the greater number of those who fill the subordinate places in the civil service. Their responsibility is to their superiors in offitial position. It is their duty to oboy the legal instructions of those upon whom that authority is involved, and their boEt public service consists in tho discharge of their functions irrespective of partisan politics. Their dntif s are the same whatever party is In power, and whatevt r policy prevails. " As a consequence, it follows that their tenure of office sho ild not depend upon the prevalence Of any policy or tho supremacy of any parly, but should be determined by their capacity to serve the people most usefully, quite irrespective of partisan interests. ihe same consideration that should govern the tenure should also prevail in the appointment, discipline, and removal of these subordinates. The authorily of appointment aud removal is not a perquisite which may be used to aid a friend or reward a partisan, but is a trust to be exercised iu the public intei est, under all the sanctions which attend the obligation to apply the pubiio funds only for p«bl.c purposes. Every citizen has an equal right to the honor and profit of entering ihe public service of his country. The only just ground of discrimination is the measure of character and capacity he has to mike that sorvice most useful to tho people. Except in cas s where, upon just and recognized principles, as upon the theory of pensions, offices and promotions aro bestowed as rewards of past services, their bestowal upon any theory which disregards personal merit is an act of "injustice to ihe citizeD, as well as a breach of that trust subject to which the appointing power is held. Iu the light of these principles it becomes of great importance to provide just and adequate mear s, especially for every department and large adminstrative office, where personal discrimination on the part of its head is not practicable for ascertaining those qualifications to which appointment) and removals should have reference. To fail to provide such means is not only to deny the opportunity of ascertaining the facts upon which tho most righteous claim to office dopend, but of necessity to discourage all worthy aspirants by handing over appointments ana removals to mere influence and favoritism. If it is the right of the worthiest claimant to gain the appointment, and the interest of the people to bestow it upon him. it would seem clear that a wise and just method of ascertaining personal fitness for office must needs bo an important and permanent function of every just and wise Government. It has long since become impossible in the great offices for these having the duty of nomination and appointment to personally examine into the individual qualifications of more than a small proportion of those seeking office, aud with the enlargement of civil service that proportion must continue to become less. In the earlier years of the Government the subordinate offices were s > few in number that it was easy for those making appointments and promotions to personally ascertain the merits of the candidates. Party managers and methods had then become powerful agents of coercion hostile to the free and just exercise of the appointing power. A large and responsible part of the duty of restoring the civil service to the desired purity and efficiency rests upon the President; and it has been my pnrpose to do what is within my power to advance such prudent and gradual measures of reform as will most surely and rapidly bring about that radical change of system essential to make onr administrative me‘hods satisfactory to a free and intelligent people by a proper exeroise of authority. It is in the power of the Executive to do much to promote such a reform, but it cannot be too clearly understood that nothtog adequate can be accomplished without co-operation on the psrt of Congress and considerate a"nd intelligent support among the people. Reforms which challenge the generally-accepted theories of parties and demand changes in the methods of departments are not the work of a day. Their permanent foundation mus£ be laid in sound principles and in an experience which demonstrates their wisdom and exposes the errors of their adversaries. Every worthy officer, desires to make his official action an honor to his countiy. Rut tbe people themselves, far more than their officers in public station, are interested in a pure, economical, and vigorous administration. By laws enacted in 1853 and 1855, #u4 Dow in substance incorporated in

the Revised Statutes, the practice of arbitrary appointments to the several subordinate grades in the great departments was condemned, and examinations as to capacity, to be condacred by the Departmental Boards of Examiners, were provided for aud made conditions of admission to tho public service. These statutes are a decision by Congress lhat examinations of some sort as to attainments and capacity are essential to the well-being of the public service. The important questions since the enactment of these laws have been as to the character of these examinations, and whether official favor and partisan influence or common right and merit were to control the access to the examinations. In practice these examinations have not always been open to worthy persons generally who might wish to be examined. Official favoritism and partisan influence, as a rule, appear to have designated those who alone were permitted to go before the examining boards, subjecting oven the examiners to a pressure from the friends of the candidates very difficult to resist. As a consequence, iho’standard. of admission fell below tnat which tho public interest demanded. It was almost inevitable that a system which provided for various separate boards of examiners, with no common supervision or uniform method of procedure, should result in confnsion, in consistency, and inadequate tests of capacity highly detrimental to the public interest. A further and more radical change was obviously required. In the annual message of December, 1870, my predecessor declared that “there is no duty which so much embarrasses the Executive and heads of departments as that of appointments, nor is there any such arduous and thankless labor imposed oil N nators and Representatives as that of flndii g places for constituents. The present sys .a does not secure the best men, "and often not even fit men, for the public places. The elevation and purifi cation of the civil service es the Government will be hailed with approval by tho whole pei - pie of the United States.” Congress accord ingiy passed the act approved March 3, 1871, “To regulate the civil service of the United States and promote the efficiency thereof,” giving the necessary authority to the Executive to institute a civil-sorvice reform. Acting under this statute, which was interpreted as intended to secure a system of just and effectual examinations under uniform supervision, a number of bmin?titly competent pereons were selected for the purpose, who entered with zeal upon the discharge of their duties, prepared with an intelligent appreciation of the requirementspf tbe sirvice, the regulations contemplated, ana took charge of the examinations, aud who, in tlitir capacity as a board, have been known as the Civil Service Commission. Congress for two years appropriated the money needed for the compensation aud for the expense of carrying on the work of llie commission. It appeals from the report of ihe commission, submitted to the President in April, 1874, that examinations had been held in various sections of tbe country, and that an appropriation 6f about $25,000 would be required to meet the annual expenses, including sa'aries, involved in discharging the duties cf the commission. The report was transmitted to Congress by special message of April 18, 1874, with the following favorable comment upon the labors of the commission: “If sustained by Congress, I have no doubt the rul s cm, after the experience gained, be so improved and enforced as to still more materially benefit ths public service, and relieve the Executive, members of Congress, and the heads of departments from influences prejudicial to good administration. The rules, as they have hithorto been enforced, have resulted beneficially, as is shown by the opinions of the membeis of the Cabinet and their subordinates in the department), and in that opinion 1 ooucur. ” And in the annual message ol De-ember of the same year similar vie* s arc expressed, and an appropriation for continuing tlio work of .the commission again advice I. The appropriation was not made, and, as a consequence, the aotivo work of the commission was suspended, leaving the commission iisel still in existence without the means therefore of cinsing qualifications to bo tested iu any sys tematie maimer, or securing for the public sev, vice the advantages of competition upon any ex'ensive plan. I recommended in my annua'i message of December, 1877, the making of an appropriation for the resumption of th work of the commission. In the meantime, however, competitive examinations, under many embarrassments, have been conducte i within limited spheres in the executive departments in Washington, and in a number of the custom liousos and pontoffiees of the principal cities of the country, with a view to further test their effects, and in every instance they have been found to be as salutary as they are stated to have been under the administration of my predecessor. I think the economy, "purity and efficiency of tho public service would be greatly promoted by their systematic introduction, wherever practicable, throughou the entire civil service of the Government, together with ample provision for their general supervision, in order to secure consistency and uniform justice. Reports from the Secretary of the Interior, from the Postmaster Gonerai, from tho Postmaster in tho city of. New York, where such examinations have been some time on trial, and also from the Collector of the Port, the Naval Officer and the Surveyor in that city, and from the Postmasters and Collectors in several of the other large cities, show that the competitive system, where applied, has in various ways contributed to improve tbe public service. The reports show that the results have been salutary in a marked degree, and that the general application of similar rules cannot fail to be of decided benefit to the service. The reports of the Government officers in the city of New York especially bear - decided testimony to the utility of open competitive examinations in their respective offices, showing that these examinations, and tho excellent qualifications of those admitted to the service through them, have had a marked incidental effect upon the persons previously in the service, and particularly upon those aspiring to promotion. There has been on the part of those latter an increased interest in tne work, and a desire to extend acquaintance with it beyond a particular desk, and thus the morale of the entire force has been raised The examinations have been attended by many citizens, who have had au opportunity to thoroughly investigate the scope and character of the teste, and the method of determining the results, anfi these visitors have, without exception, approved the modes employod, and several of them have pubiely attested their favorable opinion. Upon such considerations, I deem it my duty to renew the recommendation contained in my annual messageof December, 1877, requesting Congress to make the necessary appropriations for the resumption of the work of the Civil Service Commission. Economy will be promoted by authorizing a moderate compensation to persons in the public service who may perform extra labor upon or UDder the commission as the Executive may direct. lam convinced that if a just anil defiiite test of merit is enforced for admission to the public service, and in making promotions, such abuses as removal without good cause and parlisau and official interference with the proper exercise of the appointing power will in Urge measure disappear. There are other administrative abuses to which the attention of Congress should bo asked in this connection. Mere partisan appointment and the constant peril of removal without cause very naturally lead to an absorbing and mischievous political activity on the part of those thus appointed, which no't only interferes with the due discharge of official duty, but is incompatible with the freedom of elections. Not without warrant in the view of several of my predecessors in the Presidential office, directly in accordance with the law of 1871 already cited, I endeavored, by regulation made on the 22d of June, 1877, to put some reasonable limits to such abuses. It may not be easy, and it may never, perhaps, be necessary to define with precision the proper limit of political action on the part of Federal officers. But, while their right to hold, and freely express their opinions cannot be questioned, it is very plain that they should neither be allowed to devote to oteer subjects the time needed for the proper discharge of their official duties, nor to use the authority of their office to enforce their own opinions, or to coerce the political action of those who hold different opinions. Reasons of justice and pubiio polioy quite analogous to those which forbid the use of official power for the oppression of the private citizen impose upon the Government tbe duty of protecting its officers and agents from arbitrary exactions. In whatever aspect considered, the practice of making levies for party purposes upon the salaries of officers is highly demoralizing to the public sorvice and discreditable to the country. Though an officer should be as free any other citizen ro give his money in aid of his opinions or his parly, he shonld also be as free as any othei citizen to refuse to make such gifts. If salaries are but a fair compensation for the time and labor of the officers, it is gross injustice to levy tax upon them. If they are made excessive in order that they may bear the tax, the excess is an indirect robbery of the public funds. I recommend, therefore, such a revision and extension of the present statutes as shall secure to those iu every grade of official life or public employment the protection with which a great and enlightened nation shall guard those who are faithful in its service,

Foreign Relations. Our relations with foreign countries have continued peaceful. With Great Britain there are still unsettled questions, growing out ot the local laws of the maritime provinces, and the action ot provincial authorities deemed to be in derogation of rights secured by treaty to American fishermen The United States Minister in London has bera instructed to present a demand for #lGs,3< 5 02 in view of the damages received by American citizens at Fortune bay on the 6th day of January, 1878. The subject has been taken into consideration by the British Government, and an early reply is anticipated. Upon the completion of the necessary preliminary examination, the subject 'of our participation in the provincial fisheries, as regulated by treaty, will at once be brought to the attention of the British Government with a view to an early and permanent settlement oi the whole question, which was only temporarily adjusted by the treaty of Washington. Efforts have been made to obtain the removal of restrictions found injurious to tbe exportation of cattle to the United Kingdom. Some correspondence has also occurred wi h regard to the rescue and saviug of life aud property upon the lakes, which has resulted iu important modifications of the previous regulations of the Dominion Government on the subject, in the interest of humanity and commerce. In accordance with the joint resolution of the last session of Congress, Commissioners were appointed to represent the United States at the two International Exhibitions in Australia, one of which is now in progress at Sydney and the other to be held next year at Melbourne. A desire has been expressed by ;ur merchants and manufacturers interested in the important and growing trade with Australia that an increased provision should be made by Congress for the representation of our industries at the Milbourne Exhibition of next year, and the subject is respectfully submitted ta your favorable consideration. The assent of the Government has been given to the landing on the coast of Massachusetts of a new aud independent. transatlantic cable between France, by way of the French Island of St. Pierre and this country, subject to any future legislation of Congress on the subject. The conditions imposed, before allowing the connection with our shore to be established, are such as to secure its competition with any existing or future lines of marine cable, and preclude amalgamation therewith ; to provide for entire equality of rights to our Government and people with those of France in the use of tho cable, and prevent any exclusive possession of the privilege as accorded by France to the disadvantage of any fnturo cable communication botweeu Frame and tho United States which may be projected and accomplished by our citizens. An important reduction of the present rates of communication with Europe, felt to be too burdensome to the interests of our commerce, must necessarily flo.v from the establishment of this competing line. The attention of Congeess was drawn to tho propriety of some gonerai regulation by Co gress of the whole subject of transmarine cables by my predec ssor in his message of Dec. 7, 1875, and I respo iifully submit to your consideration the importance of Congressional action in this matter. The questions of grave importance with SpuD, growing out of the incidents of tho Cuban insurrection, have boen for tho mos part happily and honorably settled. It may reasonably lie anticipated that the commission now sitting in Washington for the decision of private cases in this connection will soon be able to bring its labors to a conclusion. The long-standing question of the East Florida claims has lately been renewed as a subject of correspondence, and may possibly require Congressional action for its final disposition. A treaty with the Netherlands with respect to Consular‘rights and privileges similar to those with other powei s has been signed and ratified, and the ratifications were exchanged on the 31et of July last. Negotiations for extradition treaties with the Netherlands and with Denmark are now in progress. Same questions with Switzerland in regard to pauper and convict emigrants have arisen, but it is not doubted that they will be arrauged upon a just and satisfactory basis. A question has also occurred with respect to an asserted claim by Swiss municipal authorities to exercise tutelage over the persons and property of Swiss ci i zens naturalize 1 in this country. It is possible this may require adjustment by treaty. With the German empire frequent questions ai ise in connection with the subjects of naturalization and expatriation, but the Imperial Government has constantly manifested a desire to etrictly maintain and comply with, all treaty stipulations in regard to them. In c of the omission of Congress to provide for a diplomatic represeiitati n at Athens, the legation to Greece has been withdrawn. There is now no channelof diplomatic communications between the two countries, and the expediency of providing for one in some form is submitted to Congress. Relations with Austria, Prussia, Italy, Portugal, Turkey, and Belgium continue amicible, and marked by no incident of especial imporA change of the personal head of the Government of Egypt has taken place. No change, however, has occurred in tne relations between Egypt and the United States. 'ihe action of the Egyptian Government in presen.iog to the city of New York one of the aucient obelisks which possess such historical interest is highly appreciated as a generoi s mark of international rega d. If prosperity should attend the enterprise of its transportation across the Atlantic, its erection in a conspicuous position in the chief comm'rcial city of the nation will be soon accomplished. The treaty recently made .between Japan and the United States in regard to the revision of former treaties, it is now believed, will be followed by similar action on the part of othei treaty powers. The attention of Congress is again invited to the subject of the indemnity funds received some years since from Japan and China, whioh, with their accumulated interest, now amount to considerable sums. If any part of these funds is justly due to American citizens, they shonld receive it promptly, and whatever may 1 ave been re ceived by the Government in excess of strict-ly-just demands should in some form bo returned to the nations to whom it equitably belongs. The Government of China has signified its willingness to consider the question of tho "emigration cf its subjects to tne United States with a dispassionate fairness and to co-operate in such measure as may tend o prevent injurious consequences to the United States. The negotiations are still proceeding, and will be pressed with diligence. A question having arisen between China and Japan about the Loochco islands, the United State s Government has taken measures to inform Ihose powers of its readiness to extend its good offices for the maintenance of peace, if they shall mutually deem it desirable, and find it practicable to avail themselves of the proffer. It is a gratification to be able to announce that, through the judicious and energetic action of the unitary commanders of the two nations on each side of the Rio Grande, nuner the instructions of their respective Governments, raids and depredations have greatly decreased, and, in localities where they were formerly destructive, have now almost wholly ceased. In view of this result, I entertain a confident expectation of the continuance of the prevalence of quiet on the border of the two countries. The third installment of the award against Mexico under the Claims Commission of July 4, 1868, was duly paid, and has been put in course of distribution in pursuance of the act of Congress providing for the same. This satisfactory situation between the two countries leads me to anticipate an expansion of our trade with and an increased contribution of capital and industry by our people to the development of the great resources of that country. I earnestly commend to the wisdom of Congress the provision of suitable legislation looking to this result. Diplomatic intercourse with Colombia i again fully restored by the arrival of the Minister from .that country to the United States This is especially fortunate in view of tho fact that the question of an interoceanic canal has recently assumed an important aspect, and is now under discussion with the Central- American countries, through whoso territory the canal by the Nicaragua route would have to pass. It is trusted that enlightened statesxausbip on their part will see that the e trly prosecution of such a work will largely mure to the benefit, not only of their own citizens and those of the United States, but ot the commerce of the Civilized world. It is not doubted that, should the work be undertaken under the protective auspices of the United States, and upon satisfactory concessions for the right of way and its security by the Central American Governments, the capital for its completion would readily be furnished -from this country and Europe, which might, failing such guarantees, prove inaccessible. Diplomatic relations with Chili have also been strengthened by the reception of a Ministry from that country. The war between Pern, Bolivia, and ChUi still continues. The United States has not deemed it proper to interpose in the matter, further than to convey to all the Governments concerned the assurance that the friendly offices of the Government of the United States for the restoration of peace npon an honorable basis will be extended in case the belligerents shall exhibit a readipess to accept them. Cor?

dial relations continue with Brazil and tbe Argentine Republic, and trade with those coontries is improving. A provision for regular and more frequent mail communication in our ships between the porta of this country and the nations of South America seems to me to deserve the attention of Congress as an essential precursor of an enlargement of our commerce with them and an extension of our carrying trade. A recent revolution in Yenezuela has been followed by the establishment of a Provisional Government This Government has not yet been formally recognized, and it ifc deeped desirable to await the proposed action of -the people, which is expected to give it the sanction of constitutional forms. A naval vessel has been sent to the Samoan islands to make surveys and take possession of the privileges ceded to the United States bj Samoa inj the harbor of Pago-Pago. A coaling station is to be established ihere, which will be convenient and useful to United States vessels. The subject of opening diplomatic relations with Roumania and Servia, now become inde pendent sovereignties, is at present under con sideration, and is the subject of diplomatic cor respondence. There is a gratifying increase of trade with nearly all European and American countries, and it is believed that with judicious action i regard to its development it can aud will be still m>.re enhanced, and that American products and mauu'actures will find new and expandii g markets. The reports of diplomatic and con sular officers upon ihis subject, under the system now adopted, have resulted in obtaining much valuable information, which has been, and will continue to be, laid before Congress and the public from time to time. Condition of Alaska. The third article of the treaty with Russia of March 3i>, 18(57, by which Alaska was ceded to the United States*provides that the inhabitants of the cfded territory, with the exception of the uncivilized native 'tribes, shall be admitt d to the eojoymen’ of alt the rights of c'tizers of the United States, and shall bo maintained and protected in the free enjoyment of tie i 1 berty of property and rel g on. The uuciv ilized tribes are subject to such laws and regulations as tho United States may from time to time adopt in regard to tin aboriginal tribes of the couutry. Both the obligations of this treaty and the necessities of the people require that some organized form of government over tbe Territ >rv of Alaska lie adopted. There appears to be no law for the arrest of pcrsoi s charged with common-law offenses, such as assault, robbery, and murder, and no magistrate authorize !to issue or execute process iu such cases. Serious difficulties have already arisen from offenses of this chiracter, not only among citizens of the United States but of other crantries who have engaged in mining, fishing, and other business operations within the Territory.j A bill authorizing the appointment of Justices of tho i’eaco and constables, aud the arrest ard detention of persons charged wi'll criminal offenses, and providing for an appeal to United States courts for the District of Oregon of suitable cases will, at the proper time, be submitted to Congress. Public Finances. The attention of Congress is called to the annual report of the Secretary of the Treasury on the condition ot the public finances. The ordinary revenues from all sources for tho fiscal year ended June 30, 1879, were #273,827,184.46. The ordinary expenditures for the same period were #266,947,083.53, leaving a surplus revenue for the year of $6,879,300.93. The rec' ip‘B for the present fiscal year, ending June 3 •, 1880, actual and estimated, are as follows: Ac ual receipts for the first quarter, commencing July 1, 1879, $79,843,663.01; estimated receipts for the remaining three-quarters of the year, #208,156,836 39. Total receipts for tlie current fiscal year, actual and estimated, #288,000,000. The expenditures for the same period will be, actual and estimated, as follows: For the quarter commencing July 1, 1879, actual expenditures, #91,683,385.10. For the remaining three-quar-ters of the year the expenditures are estimated at #i72,316,614.90, making the total expenditures #264,000,000, aud leaving an estimated sm-plns revenue for the year ending June 30, 1880, of #24,000,000. The total receipts during the next fiscal year ending June 80, 1881, estimated according to existing laws, will be $288,000,000, and tho estimated ordinary expenditures for the same period will De #278,007,3(54.39, leaving a surplus of $9,902,(535.61 for that year. The large amount expended for arrears of pensions during the last and present fiscal years, amounting to $21,747,249:60, has prevented the application of the full amount required by law to the siDkiDg fund for the current year, but, these arrears having been substantially paid, it is believed that the sinking fund can hereafter bo maintained without any change of the existing law. Army arx! Navy. The Secretary of War reports that the War Department, estimates for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1881, are $40,380,428.93, the same being for a less sum of money than any annual esrimate rendered to Congress from that department during a period of at least twelve years. He concurs with the General of the Army in recommending such legislation as will authorize the enlistment of the full number of 25,000" men for the line of the army, exclusive of the 3,460 men required for detached duty, and therefore not available for service in ihe field. He also recommends thalt Congress be asked to provide by law for the disposition of a large number of abandoned military posts and reservations, which, though very valuable in themselves, have been rendered useless for military purposes by the advance of civilization and settlement. He unites with the Quar termaster General in recommending that an appropriation be made for tbe construction of a cheap and perfectly fire-proof building for the safe storage of a vast amount of money, accounts, vouchers, claims and other valuable records now in ihe Quartermaster General’s office, and exposed to great risk of total desti uction by firo. He also recommends, in conformity with the views of the Judge Advocate General, "some declaratory legisla'ion in refer once t) the military statute of limitations, as applied to the crime of desertion. In these several recommendations I concur. The Secretary of War further reports that" the work for the improvement iu the South pass of the Mississippi river, nader contract Witly*Mr. James B. Eads, made in pursuance of an act of Congress, has been prosecuted during the past year with a greater measure ol success in tbe attainment of results than during any previous year. The channel through the South pass, which, at the beginnin; of •June, 1875, had the depth of only seven and a half feet of wator, had, on the Bth of July, 1879, a minimum depth of twenty-six feet, having a width of not It ss than twenty-five and a central depth of thirty feet. Payments have been made in accordance with the statute as the work progressed, amounting in the aggregate t0'54,250,000, and further payments will become due, as provided by the statute and in the event of success in maintaining the channel now secured. The reports of the General of the Army and of his subordinates present a full and detailed account of the military operations for tho repression of hostilities among the Indians of the Ute and Apache tribes, and praise is justly awarded to the officers and troops engaged for promptness, skill, and courage'displayed. The past year has been one of almost unbroken peace and quiet on tbe Mexican frontier, and there is reason to believe that the efforts of thi* Government and • Mexico to maintain order in that region will prove eminently successful. This department was enabled during’ the past year to find temporary, though crowded, accommodations and a safe depository for a portion of its records in the completed East wing of the building designed for the State, War and Navy Departments, The construction of the North wing of the building—a part of the structure intended for the use of the War De triment —is being carried forward with all possible dispatch, and the work shonld receive from Congresß such liberal appiopriation as will secure its speedy completion. The report of the Secretary of the Navy shows continued improvement in that branch of the service during the last fiscal year. Extensive repairs have b9en made upon vessels, and two ships have been completed and made ready for sea. The total expenditure of he year ended Juno 30, 1879, including specific appropriations not. estimated for by the department, . were $13,555,710.09. The expenses chargeable to the year, after deducting the amount of these special appropriations, were $13,343,317.79; but this is subject to a reduction of #283,725.97, that amount having been drawn upon warrants, but not paid out during the year. The amount of appropriations applicable to the last fiscal year was $14,538,646.17. There was, therefore, a balance of #1,479,054.37 remaining unexpended and to the cradit of the department on June 30, '* 1879. The estimates for the year ending June 30,1881, are $14,864,147.95, which exceed the appropriations for the present fiscal year #361,897.28. The reason for this increase is explained in the Secretary’s report. The appropriations available for the present fiscal year are #14,502,250.67, which will, in the opinion of the Secretary, answer all t 1 e ordinary demands of the service. The amount drawn fyom the treasury from July 1 to Noy. 1, 1879,

was $5,770,40112, of which $1,005,440.38 has been refunded, leaving as the expenditure for that period $4,674,963 79. If the expenditures of the remaining two-thirds of the year do not exceed the proportion for these four months, there will remain unexpended at the end of the year $477,359.30 of the current appropriations. The renort of the Secretary shows the gratifying f&ct that, among all the disbursing offioersof the pay corps of the navy, there is not one who is a defaulter to the extent of a single dollar. I unite with him in recommending the removal of the Observatory to a more healthful location. That institution reflects credit upon the nation, and has obtained the approbation of scientific men in a'l parts of the world. Its removal from its present locality would not only be conducive to the health of its officers and professors, but would greatly increase its usefulness. Uuited States Marshals. The appropriation for judicial expenses which has heretofore been made for the Department of Justice in gross was subdivided at the lust session of Congress,'' and no appropriation whatever was made for the payment of the fees of Marshals and their deputies either in the service of process or for the discharge of other duties, and since July 30 these officers have continned the discharge of their duties without compensation from the Government, taking upon themselves the necessary incidental outlays as well as rendering their own services. In ODly a few unavoidable instance} has the proper execution of the process of the United 8 fates failed by reason of the absence of the requisite appropriation. This course of official conduction the part of the officers, highly creditable to their fidelity, was advised by the Attorney General, who informed them, however, that they wonld necessarily have to rely for their compensation upon the prospect of future legisla’ion by Congress. I therefore especially recommend that immediate appropriation be made by Congress for this purposa The act making the priucipalapproprialion for the Department of Justice at previous sessions has uniformly contained the following clause: “And for defraying the expenses which may be incurred in the enforcement of the act approved Feb. 28, 1870, entitled ‘An act to amend an act approved May 30, 1870,’ eniitled ‘An act to enforce the right of oitizens of the United States to vote in the several States of the Uuited States, and for other purposes,’ or any acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto.” No appropriation was made for this purpose for the current year. As no general election of members of Congress occurred, the emission was a matter of little practical importance. Buch election will, however, take place during the ensuing year, and the appropriation made for the pay of Marshals and deputies should be sufficient to embrace compensation for the services they may be required to perform at such election. Tho Courts. The business of the Supreme Court is at present largely in arrears. It cannot be expected that more causes c m be decided than are now disposed of in its annual session, or that by any assiduity the distinguished Magistrates who compose the court can accomplish more than is now done. In tho courts of many of the'circuits, also, the business has increased to such an extent that the delay of justice will call the at ention of Congress to an appropriate remedy. It is believed that all is done in each circuit which can be fairly expected from its judicial force. The evils arising from delay are less heavily felt by the United States than by' private suitors, as its causes are advanced by the courts when it ’8 seen that they involve the discussion of questions of a public character. The remedy suggested by the Attorney General is the appointment of additional Circuit Judges, and the crea'ion of an intermediate Court of Errors and Appeals, wLich shall relieve the Supreme Court of a part of its jurisdiction, while a larger force is alio obtained for the performance of circuit duties. I recommend this suggestion to the consideration of Congress. It would seem to afford a complete remedy, and would involve, if ten additional Circuit Judges are appointed, an expenditure at the present rate of salaries of not more than $60,000 a year, which would certainly be small in comparison with tho objects to be attained. The Postofflce. The report of tho Postmaster General bears testimony to the general revival of business throughout the country. The receipts of the Postoffico Department for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1879, were $30,041,982 86, being $704,465.91 more than the revenues of the preceding year. The amount realized from the sale of postage-stamps, stamped envelopes and postil-cards was $764,465.91 more than in the preceding year, and $2,387,559.23 more ban in 1877. The expenditures of the department were $33,449,899.45, of which tho sum of $370,461.63 was paid on liabilities incurred in preceding years. The expenditures during tho .year were $801,209.77 less than in the preceding year. This reduction is to be attributed mainly to tho operation of the law passed June 17, 1878, changing the compensation of Post masters from a commission on the value of s’amps sold to a commission on the stamps canceled. The amount drawn from the treasury on appropriations, in addition to the revenues of the department, was $3,031,454 94, being $2,276,197.86 less than in the preceding year. The expenditures for the fiscal yes rending June 30, 1881, are estimated at $39,920,000, and the receipts from all sources at $32,210,000, leaving a deficiency to be appropriated for out of the treasury of $7,710,900. The relations of the department with the railroad companies have been harmonized, notwithstanding the general reduction by Congress of their compensation by tho appropriation for general facili ies, and the railway postal lines have been greatly extended, especially in the Southern States. Tue interests of the railway mail service would be greatly promoted and the expenditures could be readily controlled by the classification •t>f the empl yei of the railway mail service, as recommended by the Postmaster General, the appropi ialious for service with respect to which ihe maximum limit is already fixed by law to be made in gross. The Posimaster General recommends an amendment to the law regulating an increase of compensation for increased service and increased speed on star routes, so as to enable him to advertise for such increased service and speed. He also suggests ihe advantages to accrue to the commerce of the country from the enactment of a general law authorizing contracts with American built steamers carrying the American llag for transporting the mail between the United States and paits of the West Indies and South America at a fixed maximum price per mile, the amount to be expended beiDg regulated by annual appropriations in like manner with the amount for the domestic star service. The arrangement made by the PostmasterJGeneral and tho Secretary of the Treasury for the collection of dutiee on books received in tho mail from foreign countries has proved so satisfactory in its practical operation that the recommendation is now made that Congress extend the provisions of the act of March 3, 1879, under which this arrangement was made, so as to apply to all other dutiable artie’es received in the mails ftom foreign countries. The Indians. The reports of the Secretary of the Interior and of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, sotting forth the-present state of our relations with ihe Indian tribes on our territory the measures taken to advance the civilization and prosperity, and the progress already achieved by them, will be found of more than ordinary interest. The general conduct of our Indian population has been so satisfactory that the occurrence of two disturbances which resulted in bloodshed and destruction of property is all the more to be lamented. The history of the outbreak on the White River Ute Reservation in Western Colorado' has beoome so familiar by elaborate reports in the public press that its remarkable incidents need not be stated here in detail. It is expected that the settlement of this difficulty will lead to suoh arrangements as will prevent further hostile contests between the Indians and the border aettlements in Western Colorado. The other disturbances occurred at the Mescalero Agency in New Mexico, where Victoria, the head of a small band of marauders, after committing many atrocities, beiDg vigorously chased by a military force, made his way across the Mexican border, and is now on a foreign soil. While these occurrences, in which a comparatively small number of Indians were engaged, are most deplorable, a vast majority or our Indian population have fully justified the expectations of those who believe that by humane and peaceful influences the Indian can be led to abandon the habits of savage life, and to develop a capacity for useful and civilized occupations. Wba’ they have already accomplished is shown in the nitrsuit of agricultural and mechanical work. The remarkable success which has attended 'he experiment of employing as freighters a class of Indians hitherto counted among the wildest and most intractable, and the general and urgent desire expressed by them for tho education of their children, may be taken as sufficient proof that they will be r onnd o ipabl i of accomplishing much more if they continue to bs wisely and fairly guided. The Indian policy sketched in the report of the Secretary of tin Interior, the object of which i* to make liberal provision for the education of Indian youth, to settle ihe Indians uppn farmlots in severalty, to give them title; pi fee to

their farms inalienable for a certain number of years, and when their wants are thus provided for to dispose by sale of the lauds on their reservations not occupied and used by them, a fund to be formed out of the proceeds foi the benefit of the Indians, which will grad ually relieve the Government of the expeusoe uow provided for by annual appropiivioos, -i ust commend itself as just aud t>eio i Ist to the I diaDS and as also talculated to remove tho *e o’ structions which the exi tence of largi reservations presents to the set lenient aud development of the country. I, there t re, earnestly recommend the enactment of a las enabling the Government to give iudians a tiile in fee inalienable for twenty-five years to thefarm lands assigned to them by allotment. 1 alsj re eat the reo >mn e ..lauou m my rin». vnual me sage that a law bs passed adn itti , Indians .viiocingivo eatislaetory or. of of liavng, by their own la or, supported tLe'r fam - ii J-. fora number of years, and who are willing to detach themselves from their tribal u 1 .lions, to the t e mfit of the Hcmesteid act, and to grant tlum patents containing ihe same provision of inabeoability for a cor a n pei io . The experiment of sending a i umber of Julian children of both sexes to tne iinmp'oi Normal and Agricultural Institute in V rgiuit , t> receive e'ementary English education ana practical instruction in farming and other useful mdu-tries, has led to results so promisii g that it was thought expedient to turn over t e cavalry barracks at Carlisle, in Pennsylvania to the lute i>r Department for the establ.aliment of an Indian school on a larger tcale This school has now 158 pupils, sole lei from various tribes, and is in full operation. Arrangemen s are also made for tho education <n nunberof Indian loys and gi Is belou*. ing • i titles oa the Pacific slope in a similar man ler, at Forest Grove, in Oregon. These insti t.iiti ms will commend them-elves to the liberality ot C ngri s i and to the philanthropic mm id o nco . f t ie Americin people. hast spring information was received of the organiz ation of an extensive movement in the Western btates, tho object of which was tho oc cupation bv unauthorized porspns of certain lands in the Indian Territory ceded by the Cherokees to the Government for the purpose of settlement by other tndi m tribes. On the 29th of April I issued a proclamation warning all persons against participation in such aq attempt, and by the co-operation cf a military force the invasion was promolly checked. It is my purpose to protect the rights of-the Indian inhabitants of that Territory to the full extent of the Executive: but it would bo unwise to ignore tlia fact that a Territory so large and so fertile, with a population so sparse, aud so great a wealth of unuied res .urces, will be found more exposed to the repetition of such attempts as happened this year when the surrounding States w ere most deneely settled, and the westward movement of our population looks still more eagerly fbr fresh lands to occupy. Under such circumstances tho difficulty of maintaining the Indian Territory iu its present state will greatly increase, and the’ Indian tribes inhabiting it would do well to prepare for such a contingency. I therefore fuHy approve of the advice given to them by the Secretary of the Interior on a recent occasion to divide among themselves, in sevoralty, as large a quantity of tlieir lands as thoy can cultivate, to acquire individual title in fee, instead of their present tribal ownership in common, and consider in what manner tho balance of tlieir lands may be disposed of by the Government for their benefit By adopting such a t olicy they would more, certainly secure for themselves the value of their possessions, and at the same time promote their progress in civilization and prosperity, than by endeavoring to perpetuate the present state of things in the Territory. The question whether a change in the control of the Indian service should be made was, in tho Forty-fifth Congress, referred to a joint committee of both houses for inquiry and report. In my last annual me isage I expressed the hope that the decision of the question ( then iii prospect, would arrest further agitation of this subject, such agitation being apt to produce a disturbing effect upon the service as well aB the Indians themselves. Since then, tho committee having reported, the question has been decided in the negative by a vote in the House of Representatives. For the reason herestatod, and in view of the fact that further uncertainty on this point wfll be calculated to obstruct other much-needed legislation, to weaken the discipline of the service and to unsettle salutary measures now in progress for the government and improvement of the Indians, I respectfully recommend that tho decision arrived at by Congress at its last session be permitted to stand. Timber Thefts. Tho efforts made by the Department of the Interior to arrest the depredations on the timber lands of the United States have been continued, and have mot with considerable succe a ß. A large number of cases of trespass have been prosecuted in the courts of the Uuited States. Otherß have been settled, the trespassers offering to make payment to the Government for tho value of tho limb r taken by thorn. The proceeds of these prosecutions and settlements turned into the treasury far exceed in amount the sums appropriated by Congress for this purpose. A more important result, however, consists in the fact that the destruction of our pubi c forests by depredation, although such cases still occur, has been greatly reduced in extent, and it is proposed that if the present policy is vigorously pursued, and sufficient provision to that end made by Congress, such t-espas-e}—at least those on a large scale—can be entirely suppressed, except in the Territories, where timber for the daily requirements of the population caunot, under the preeent state of the law, be otherwise obtained. I therefore earnestly invite the attention of Congr.es to the recommendation made by the Secretary of tho Interior, that a law bo enacted enabling the Government to sell timber from the public lands without conveying the fee where such lands are principal y valuable for the t'mber thereon, such sales to bo so regulated as to conform to domestic wants and business requirements, while at the same time guarding against a sweeping destruction of the forests. Tho enactment of such a law appears to become a more pressing necees ty every day. Agricultural Bureau. My recommendations informer messages are renewed in favor of enlarging the facilities of the Department of Agriculture. Agriculture* is tho leadi g interest, and the permanent industry of our people. It is to the abundance of agricultural productions as compared with our home coi s imption and the 1 irgely increased and highly-profitable market abroad which wc have enjoyed in recent years that we are mainly indebted for our present prosperity as a people. We must look to its continued maintenance for substantial resource. There is no branch of industry in which labor, directed by scientific knowledge, yields such increased production in comparison with unskilled labor, and no branch of the public service to which the encouragement of liberal appropriations can be more appropriately extended. The omission to render such aid is not a wise economy, but on the contrary undoubtedly results in losses of immense sums annually that might be saved through well-directed efforts by the Government to promote this vital interest. The reeu’t already accomplish d with the very limited means heretofore placed at the command of the Department of Agriculture is an earnest of what may be expected with increased appropriations for the several purposes indicated in the report of the Commis <ioner, with a view to placing the de pariment upon a footing which wi 1 enable it to prosecute more effectively the objects for which it is established. Appropriations are needed for a more complete laboratory, for the e tabliehment of a Veterinary Division and a Division of Forestry, and for an increase of force. The requirements for these and other purposes indicated in the report of the Ccmmis sioner, under the head of “Immediate Necessities of the Department ” will not involve any expenditure of money that the country caDnot with propriety now undertake in the interests of agriculture. Education. It is gratifying to learn from the Bnrean of Education the extent to which edncational privileges throughout the United States have been advanced during the year. No more fundamental responsibility rests upon Congress than that of devising appropriate measures of financial aid to education, supplemental to local action in States and Territories, and the District of Colombia. The wise forethought of the founders of onr Government has not only furnished the basis for the support of the common-school systems of the newer States, bat laid foundations for the maintenance or their universities, •f colleges of agriculture and mechanic art Measnres in accordance with this traditional policy for the further benefit of all these interests and the extension of some advantages to every portion of the country, it is hoped, will receive your favorable consideration. Capitol Library. To preserve and perpetuate the national literature should be among the foremost cares of the national Legislature. The library gathered at the Capitol still remains unprovided wjth any suitable accommodations for its rapidly-increas-ing stores. The magnitude and importance of the collection, increased, as it is, by tne deposits made under the laws of copyright, by domestic and foreign exchanges, and by toe scientific library of the Smithsonian Institution, call for building accommodations which shall I be at once adequate and fire-proof. The loo*.

tion of such public buildings, which should provide for the pi easing necessities of the present and for the vast increase of the nation's books in the future, is a milter which addresses itself to the discretion of Congress. It is earnestly recommended a* a measure which should ‘unite all suffrages, and which shonld no longer be delayed. Wasi ington Monument. The Joint Commission created by the act of Congress of Aug. 2,1876, for tLe purpose of supervising and directing the Completion of the Washington National monument, of which commission the President is a member, has given careful attention to this subject, aud already the strengthening of the foundation has so far p-ogreased as to insure eutiro ouccess of this part of the w-ork. A massive layer of masonry has beer introduced below the original foundation, widening the base, increasing the stability of the structure, and remit ring it risible to carry the shaft to oomph tiou. It earnestly recommended that such further appropr ation be made for the continued prosecution of the work as maybe necessaiy for the completion of this national monumet t at an early day. District of Columbia. In former messages, impressed with the importance of the subject, I haTe taken occasion to recimmend to Congress the ad<qi ion of a generous policy toward the District of Ci lumDia. The report of the Commissioners of ihe District herewith transmitted contains suggestions aud recommendations to all of which I earnestly invite your careful attention. I ask your early and favorable consideration of thi views which they express as to urgent need of legislation for the reclamation of the marshes of the Potomac and its eastern branch within the limits of the city, and for the repair of streo s of tho capital, ‘ heretofore laid with wooden blocks, and by delay rendered almost impass abio and a source of imminent danger to the health of its citizens. The moans at the dispisal of the Commissioners aro wholly inadequate for the accomplishment |of these imp rtant works and should be supplemented by timely appropriations from the Federal t easurv. Tho filling of the flats in front of the city will add to the adjacent lands and paiks now owned by the United States a large and valuable domain, > ufficient, it is thought, to reimburse its entire cost, and will also, as an incidental result, secure the permanent improvement of the river for the purpose of navigation. The constitution having invested Congress with supreme and exclusive jurisdiction ovor the District of Columbia, its cit zeus must, of necessity, look to Congress alone for all needful legislation affecting their interes's, and as the territory of this District is the common property of the people of the United States, who, equally with its resident citizens, are in terested in the prosperity of their capital, I cannot doubt that you will be amply sustained by the general voice of the country in any measure yon may adopt for this purpose. I also invite the favorablo consideration of Congress to the wants of the public schools of this District, as exhibited in the report of the Commissioners. While the number of pupils is rapidly increasing, no adequate provision exists for a corresponding inci case of school accommodation, and the Commissioners are without the means to meet this urgent need. A number of the buildings now used for school purposes are rented, and are in important particulars unsaited for the purpose. "The cause of popular education iu the District of Columbia is surely entitled to the same consideration at the hands of the National Government as in the several States / and Territories, to which munificent grants of the public lands have been made for the endowment of schools and universities.

RUTHEEFORD B. HAYES.

Executive Mansion. Dec. 1.1879.