Greenfield Republican, Greenfield, Hancock County, 17 January 1895 — Page 7

Complete and Comprehensive Review of Various Indiana Affairs.

REVENUES AND STATE DEBT.

Domestic Troubles—The Columbian Athletic Club—Coal Miners' Strike aud the Use of Troops—Railroad Strike at Hammond—Pay of Troops—Wluter Racing.

Public Schools and the State Educational Institutions—Penal and Benevolent Institutions—Prison Reform.

Gentlemen of the Senate and House of Representatives: Once again you are assembled, the chosen representatives of an intelligent and. progressive people, to consider measures wnich concern and may promote the general welfare of the people, and enact such laws as may advance the interests of your state.

I trust vou may realize to the fullest extent the grave responsibilities which rest upon you. Our legislatures have done much in recent years to place Indiana in the front rank of states in adoption of great reform measures, by keeping step with the advancing march of a more perfect civilization, and meeting the increasing demands of a people growing rapidly in wealth, in general prosperity and enlightenment. It is to be hoped that the work of the fiftyninth general assembly may not fall short of those that have passed.

It becomes my duty under the constitution to give you such information touching the condition of the state, and recommend such measures as shall be judged to be expedient.

Of the financial condition of the state —the management of its public institutions, and oif the several state offices during the past two years, it will not be expected that I should in this paper go into fullest details, and I would, therefore, refer you for this more extended information to the several reports which will "be submitted to you.

Finances.

It affords me unqualified satisfaction to announce that the finances of the state are in a sound and healthy condition. Notwithstanding the fact that the last general assembly reduced tlie levy 2% cents, a greater revenue was derived than under the old levy. This was largely due to the assessment of property under the tax law of 1891. I am of the opinion that a still further reduction can be safely made—at least of 2 cents in the school tax levy. The state institutions have been generously provided for under their judicious and economical management there has not been the annual deficit. It has not been necessary to borrow money to meet the annual interest upon the state debt but, on the other hand, during the past two years, demands upon the treasury have been promptly honored, interest met, and the sum of .si) 10,000 already paid upon the state debt, and the further sum of §400,000 called in and will be cancelled in a few days, making a total paid on the state debt of $1,310,000.

In the creation of a state debt sinking fund by a 3-cent levy, means have been provided for the sure and gradual extinction of the state debt. The sum produced by this levy of 3 cents, together with what may reasonably be expected to be available from the general fund, unless there should be a heavier reduction in the reassessment of property in 1805 than is probable, will annually reduce the debt nearly, if not quite §500,000. As this debt was, in a great measure, incurred for purposes from which those coming after us will derive an equal benefit, it is but just that they should assist in liquidating it. Therefore, I do not recommend an increase in the levy for the sinking fund, but it should remain at its present rate.

In a tabulated statement the governor shows the total foreign and domestic debt to be §7,920,015.12, less ^400,000 to be paid on the 14th inst, and says the annual interest charges are §257,725. He points out also that §1,485,000 of the debt will become due this year, and oil this he adds:

I would recommend that you provide for the refunding of this debt, and that it be for the extension of the option to a longer period thau is now permitted, believing that a lower rate of interest may be secured. This extension of time can well be granted, for the amounts upon which options are enforceable, aud the debt maturing in 189(5, 1897 aud 1899 will be as much if not more than can lies cared for without unduly increasing the sinking fund levy for several yearn to come.

Domestic Troubles.

It is with sincere regret that I have to report that during my two years of administration our state has not been free from domestic troubles, through attempts by organized bodies of men from an adjoining state to openly and defiantly violate our laws. At several times and places the public peace has been seriously threatened by bodies of men real or fancied

ing these disturbances. Columbian Athletic Club. Since the last adjournment of the general assembly, and claiming the right uKiidr the act of March 3, 1893, the Columbian Athletic club was organized. A large building or amphitheater capable of seating several thousand spectators was erected by this club in Lake county, near the town of Roby, aud began operation by advertising what, although thinly disguised, were known or currently believed to be prizefights. Not being of the opinion that the act of March 3, 1893, under which the Columbian Athletic club was incorporated, authorized that association to conduct prizefights at Roby, or at any other place in the state, and that this act did not re •. peal the law which makes prizefighting ""a criminal offense, I immediately en tered into correspondence with the au thorities of Lake county, seeking to de vise some means to prevent or suppress? these meetings. Several exhibitions were given in the building of this club which clearly revealed the purpose of the association and the .character of its sport. ,r at

The authorities of Lake county seemed to be powerless to prevent the operations of the club, and I, therefore, caused a suit to be commenced in the Lake Circuit court for an injunction and for tho Appointment of ft receiver. A receiver

was appointed, and from this order an appeal was at once taken to the supreme court, where the case still remains undecided. Owing to the vast crowds, from five to eight thousand gathering on the grounds of this club, largely of a rough and desperate character, and on account of the construction of the building, so arranged that it was difficult and dangerous to obtain access to the center or ring, for the purpose of making arrests, and the large number of employes of the association guarding the entrance, the authorities felt powerless to contend or make an arrest. I, therefore, on the 4th day of September, 1S93, a contest being advertised for that evening, dispatched Adjutant General Bobbins with 13 companies from the Second, Third and Fourth regiments of the Indiana Legion to put the receiver in possession of the property, and make arrests of the principals, the seconds, aiders and abbettors of the pi-izefights, and as many of the spectators as possible. The association, becoming advised of the presence of the state troops in the vicinity, declared the meeting off, and no arrests could be made and the receiver was peaceably installed.

This has ended the prizefighting at Roby up to this date, and the property of the club abandoned. Indictments were found in the Lake circuit court against some of the participants in previous contests trial was had, resulting in the conviction of one who is now a fugitive from justice. The expense incurred in sending the state troops to the scene of trouble was paid out of the military contingent fund, ^allotted to the governor of §2,000 per annum, consuming nearly all of this fund for the years 1893 and 1894.

attempting to correct real or wrongs, independent of the peaceful I deemed it wise to send a large., effectmeans provided by law, and in defiance ive force, believing the state could better of constituted authority. This, to such afford to bear the slight additional cost an extent, that it became necessary for rather that "he sacrifice of lives. the state to exercise its power in quell- The governor then reviews tho use of

I would here earnestly urge upon yout the importance of enacting a more stringent law upon prizefighting, making it a felony to those who may participate, aither as principals or seconds. It should also be more clearly defined as what may be considered prizefighting, and what exhibition contests in places of Amusement. The advertisement of a prizefight should be made unlawful and punishable with fine.

Coal Miners' Strike.

During the spring of 1894 the coal miners of the state were idle during the pendancy of a disagreement between operators and miners as to wages for mining coal. The strike in the coal fields was extensive throughout the country, as well as in Indiana, and of long duration. This caused no little suffering to the miners and their families, and in many cases actual want. This suffering and enforced idleness was bravely and patiently endured, awaiting a peaceable settlement of differences, arousing widespread symatliy for their distress, for the great majority of the miners of the state are an intelligent and law-abiding class of citizens. However, some of the more restless and hotheaded, growing impatient in the delay of reaching an agreement as to scale of wages to be paid, began to commit depredations, destroying property, endangering life, and interfering with the conduct of business by other citizens of the state. Such violations of law could not be countenanced, and the local authorities were unable to cope with lawlessness indulged in.

In consequence of tliis, June 1, 1894,1 was notified by the proper officials of Daviess county, that a large body of men had collected at Cannelsburg, in that county, aud were violently obstructing the passage of trains, destroying property, defying the authority of the sheriff and refusing to be served with any notice, writ of order of the courts. I ordered Adjutant General Robbins, with nine companies of the Indiana legion, to the seat of trouble. On his arrival the mob violations of law had ceased and the crowd had dispersed. The troops remained in camp there several days, patroling the country and aiding the civil authorities in making arrests. The main body of troops were withdrawn in a short time, leaving a small detachment in command of Major JEtockwood, who, after three days, having restored peace and quiet, withdrew the remainder of the troops, leaving matters in the hands of the local authorities.

In the meantime, similar disturbances, but of a more serious nature, arose in Sullivan county. To this point I ordered six companies of the First regiment, under command of Brigadier General McKee, several of the companies withdrawn from Daviess county afterward joining his forces, as it became evident from the number of points affected, and the extent of the country to be covered, it became necessary for a considerable division of his forces. It became necessary for the troops to remain in this field for 20 days before order was fully restored. Neither in Sullivan nor in Daviess counties did a collision occur between the troops and the citizens. The presence of the militia, through the firmness of the officers and the soldierly bearing of the men, being sufficient to accomplish the purpose. At no time was there any serious outbreak, yet all the time there was imminent danger, and only avoided by the presence of the troops. The large force oi! armed soldiers deterred an attack, which a smaller number might have invited, leading to possibly serious loss of life.

troops during the Pullman strik?., relating the incidents thereof, and says of the expense thereof: The total expense incurred, §52,807.00 payrolls (pex diem of soldiers'., §41,917.49 railway transportation, §5,547.08 subsistence, telegraph, express, camp and minor expenses, §5,341.83 total $52,807.00. Of this amount I have caused to be paid out of the regular military fund, $o,341.83, leaving an unpaid balance of §47,405.17, to which should be added interest upon money borrowed with which to pay troops. The sum as stated paid out of the regular fund, was with the belief that as no annual camp of instruction was held, it would be proper, as the cost of subsistence of such camp would probably have amouu tad to this sum. Vouchers, certified bills and payrolls are on file in the adjutant general's office, to which I invite your attention.

Paying tho Troops.

1

There was no fund upon which I could draw for the payment of the troops, for their active service in the field.

The Indiana legion promptly responded to the call to duty and rendered cheerful, obedient, effective service. Many of them rendering service at great personal sacrifice, leaving their occupation? and employments, wages or salaries stepped, while in the\service of the state and could illy afford to wait tho

assembling of the state legislature to provide the necessary means to pay the §1.50 a day which the state allows its soldiers while in active service.

Many would be forced to submit to heavy discounts of even this sum. In view this I borrowed the sum of $41,9l7.4^ to meet this necessity. The three banks in Indianapolis to which I applied met me in a generous, cordial spirit, and to the Merchants' National, the Fletcher's and the Indiana National banks, I executed my individual note in three equal sums, with 6 per cent interest. Principal borrowed Aug. 22, 1894.... ..$41,917 49 Interest 0 per cent to Jan. 22, 1895 (live months) 1,047 92

Total 842,905 41 Added to this the amount of expenses yet unpaid, $5,547.68, making a total of $48,513.09, for which I ask you to provide.

The governor then devotes considerable attention to the condition of the militia, and expresses a hope that the military contingent fund may be increased for extraordinary emergencies. He also thinks the act of March 8, 1SS9, should be so amended as to give greater discretion to the commanding officer in giving the order to fire when it became necessary, rather than leave him subject to the discretion of the civil officer. He suggests that a new military law will be presented and is worthy of consideration.

Executing Laws.

The constitution requires that the governor "shall take care that the laws be faithfully executed.'' The authority under which the governor acts in compliance with the general provision is to be found only in the great body of laws enacted. No specific power is conferred by law upon the governor by which he is enabled to see to the execution of any particular law.

After reciting the menacing danger from the population of large cities bordering Indiana, and the fact that in some instances there are sheriffs who

The governor calls attention to the

I have been earnestly seeking some means, warranted by law, by which this disgrace to our state could be prevented. Although having the able advice, earnest assistance aud active co-operation of Attorney General Ketcham, I have failed to find the way.

vide .remedy,

the Columbian Athletic While winter horse-racing is condemned as a delusion and a fraud, aud to the end that legitimate racing and horso interests generally are not discouraged, it is recommended that all meetings between the first day of November aud the first day of April be made unlawful, and that no pool selling be allowed ex-

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cepton the day tne xace and to be

GREENFIELD REPUBLICAN, THURSDAY. JANUARY 17, 1895.

rei»rtjd to be a prosperous condition. On the question of the removal of the State University from Bloomington to Indianapolis the governor takes the position that a change of location would be an injustice to the city where at present located, and entail an unwarranted expense on the state. He, however, suggests that appropriations during this agitation be carefully counted before being granted. The Indiana Academy of Science, which renders a great service to the state by investigating and advertising its natural resources, is commended as being worthy of encouragement by the general assembly.

fact that the "Roby Fair association" tion nor humanity that they be kept as is not incorporated under the laws of I at present^ the state, and that its legal nature was concealed. Wiiat its actual nature is, purposes and character, is not without concealment, being designated as simply a great gambling concern, which draws to it tiie lawless aud disreputable eiements of Chicago and elsewhere. He goes on to say:

In view of the failure of the supreme court to pass upon the Columbian Athletic club case, and the approaching session of the general assembly, I have con- .• eluded that it was wiser to call your attention to the evil and urge you to pro-

sold on the tiac v. possible for damaged buildings to White Caps. The outrages upon the rights of citizens and society, by organized bodies of men, commonly termed "White Caps," assuming to redress wrongs and inflict punishment upon real or fancied offenders of the law or moral sentiment, at one time too frequent, I am glad to say, haw been for th« past IS mouths of rare occurrence vigorous measures, so far as the law would permit, have been adopted in stamping out this evil.

Tho Public Schools.

It is justly a matter of pride to every citizen of Indiana, that her system of public education is everywhere regarded as one of the most perfect in the country. The common school fund of the state now amounts to $9,867,001.59. The total enrollment of scholars, in 1893, was 770,903, and in 1894, 808,201. The total revenue from all sources for tho school year 1893, was: Derived from state school tax.., Interest collected by counties... Interest congressional l'und Local tuition Liquor licenses Unclaimed tees and other sources..

§1,983,318 34 I 41',.),:!!) I :}8 71,819 TO r/x.\ uu su! 247,Hill 01) 80S 5(1

Total revenue $33,330,582 00 As previously referred to, tho revenue even after the reduction in the levy two years ago of 2o cents, under present assessment is so much greater than that prior to 1892, that I think this levy could be still further reduced 2 cents without injury to the public schools.

Statu (i..Ideational Institutions. Reviews are given of the State Normal School, Purdue University and the State University, all of which .are

State Institution*.

are wanting in diligence in the apprehension and prevention of crime, the governor recommends the propriety of insanity and disgusting practices, deenacting laws which will provide: moralizing in the extreme. On the one 1. Authorising the governor in his own hand there is an injustice to free labor, name, or in the name of the sUite, on the relation of the governor, to institute in the courts actions to enjoin and prevent the commission of any acts against property, public peace, public morals, public health, public policy, or in any violation of any of the statutes of the state, with the authority, in proper cases, to appoint a receiver for the property in which the illegal acts arc being committed, and in this connection of making the law retroactive so as to cover suits already instituted. 2. Authorizing the governor or other proper officers to institute and maintain actions against railroad companies, or other common carriers, to restrain them from carrying passengers for the purposu of engaging in unlawful enterprises, and making the carrying for such purposes a cause for a forfeiture of their franchises. 3. Authorizing the governor to suspend any sheriff or other executive officer of the counties or cities who fails or refuses to

perform the duties enjoined upon him by industrial schools, for youthful offendlaw, for a limited period, and to appoint temporarily some person to perform the duties of such office duiing such suspension. A report of such action together with the names, to be furnished to the gen- I eral assembly at its next session. 4. Authorizing the governor to apply to the court of the county for the removal of anv sheriff or other executive officer who shall persistently fail, neglect or refuse to perform ti:e duties required of him by law.

And I recommend that you consider aud I determine what other or different enactments are necessary and proper in order more effectively to enable the governor to "take care that the laws are faithfully executed."

Winter Racing. I

The governor asserts that the several public penal and benevolent institutions of the state have been commendably conducted during the past two years, having been managed with cleanness, ability and economy. The boards of trustees have been, as a rule, composed of men of good business qualifications, judgment and integrity. He says the aim has been to conduct affairs on sound business principles and that there has been singular freedom from the petty scandals usually connected by rumor with public institutions. The governor recommends §20,000 additional appropriation for the state prison north and says that the prisom south also needs a liberal increase, each on account of additions to the prison population.

Prison Reforms.

It is the law of fhe state that prisoners shall be employed upon contract labor. & natural complaint arises from free labor as to reduced prices upon similar manufactured articles by convict labor. So long as the present law exists, the prison officials have no discretion in the matter, and must comply with the law as they find it.

The instincts of humanity dictate that prisoners should not be kept in idleness, for it is the fruitful source of sickness,

on the other an outraged feeling of humanity. It is a subject worthy of your serious investigation. I am free to confess that I am unable to offer a solution to the problem that is satisfactory to myself.

The steadily increasing number of criminals sent to overflow our prisons will soon confront us with the necessity of enlarging the prisons, or providing some other means for their custody. It has occurred to me that it would be wise so to revise the penal code, in that jail sentences for lighter offenses, or first offenders, should be extended so as to cover a larger number of cases. As it is when jail sentences would be seeming justifiable, too often, to avoid expense to the county, criminals are sent to the penitentiary.

Again, the necessity of enlarging our present state prisons might be avoided by establishing intermediate prisons, or

ers. In such prisons or schools a large number could be sent to learn useful trades, relieving the two prisons we now have, and giving greater hope of reformation to the youthful criminal.

Another crying need in the way of prison reform is in the treatment of the insane convict—either demented at time of sentence, or becoming so during imprisonment.

Proper treatment aud care cannot be afforded these unfortunates, as our prisons are at present constructed and managed. Either tho laws must be such that would authorize the transfer of insane convicts to the state insane hospital, or provision made for their separate confinement and treatment at the prisons. It is not creditable to our civiliza-

In the Reform School for Boys, Reform School for Girls and Woman's Prison, Institute for the Deaf and Dumb, Institute for the Blind, Soldiers' and 'Sailors' Orphans' Home aud the School for Feeble-minded Youth, the governor has found nothing of unusual interest, and briefly refers to the routine reports. He concurs in several requests from these various institutions for additional appropriations for improvements or repairs.

Insane Hospitals.

It is pointed out that large parts of the Central hospital needs repairing, and the governor says it will be unwise and false economy to delay these longer, and urges a sufficient appropriation for this purpose.

The Eastern hospital is reported as being filled to its capacity and recommendation made that provision be made

liospital has increased its capacity from SOS to 50G patients and a necessary increase for maintenance is pointed out. It is also pointed out that the Southern hospital is inadequate for the insane in the district tributary to it.

The governor commends the policy of insurance being placed on state property and points out that in four instances

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repaired or rebuilt. The state board of health is commended in its work against epidemics, especially the smallpox scourge in Muncie and the quarantine against Chicago on the same account. The appropriation which has heretofore been made to that board lias been found inadequate, and should an extraordinary condition confront. it the board would be helpless to render effective service. The appropriation should be increased. I would also suggest the wisdom of leaving the law creating the epidemic fund in force.

The Board of Stale Charities. The closer my acquaintance with and means of observation of the work of the state board of charities, the more I am convinced of its value to the public, to the public institutions and to the executive of the state. Its labors have been performed with a conscientious and painstaking care that is in the highest commendable. As its importance becomes better understood, so increase duties aud its labors. This board should have an additional allotment of $1,000 for its use, because of the increased work it is called upon to perform.

Agriculture and Forestry.

The state agricultural and horticultural societies come in for a share of attention and are commended for evidences of progressive spirit showti§ j)The governor thinks the grounds now leased by the agricultural board should be purchased by the stato and be disposed of only as the state should direct.

Attention is called to the depopulation of the Indiana forests aud this sug­

gestion is made: vvonld II not ha wise to encourage the planting of trees on such lands, for utility and commercial value—not for ornament—and to encourage the preservation of a large part of what is left, by a system of reward or bounty, in, for instance, a full or partial exemption from tax? A large number of the intelligent citizens of the state have considered this a matter of importance. Recently an intelligent discussion of this subject was had in the board of trade of Indianapolis, resulting in the adoption of a resolution directing public attention to its importance, and I commend it to you.

Highways.

There will probably come before you numerous measures concerning tho improvement of roads. There are few questions of greater importance that will engage your attention. It is being widely discussed by the people of the entire country. National and state road congresses are being held, the discussions taking a wide range. Many of the remedies proposed would doubtless accomplish the result. I fear in too many of the propositions that in the desire to secure improved roads, due consideration may not be given to the cost, nor to that class of our citizens—the farmers—upon whom will necessarily fall the heavier burden in the expense of construction.

I do not underestimate the value of a system of &ood roads to the public, and believe there is great need for such improvement, br.t in the framing of laws to this end the interests and desires of those who will at least have the cost to bear should be chiefly considered, especially at a time when the profits from farming are not so large as they should be.

Plans devised by associations of civil engineers, cyclist clubs and road congresses may be good—in theory the best—but these are not always based upon the ability of the taxpayer to pay.

In this dav of electricity we may reasonably expect, in the near future, electric lines to branch out through the country. A law should be enacted restricting county commissioners in their right to grant right-of-way along our public thoroughfares, to their injury and ruin, for the travel of those compelled to use them and who have borne the cost of their construction.

The Tax Law.

Time and experience have approved the wisdom of the tax law of 1891. It met with active opposition from a large and influential class of our citizens and taxpayers, and caused expensive litigation to the state. But in all the courts its validity has been sustained from the lower courts to the supreme court of the United States.

The application of this law was tho means of adding considerably and justly to the taxables of the state. Property not heretofore properly assessed, or not assessed at all was placed upon the tax duplicates, adding millions in value to assist in bearing the burden of tax, and relieving the taxpayer who had been more fully assessed upon his property.

By means of this law annual deficits in the state treasury have ceased, the state debt is being extinguished and a lower levy for state purposes is made possible. Indeed, there is no reason to believe that a reduction in the levy could be made in all the counties unless for the most extraordinary local necessities.

While the law has been sustained by the courts and indorsed by the people, yet there are a few points wherein it could be strengthened, or at least its provisions more clearly defined.

In the matter of building and loan associations, the law should more cloarly state what pan of the funds of these associations should be exempt from and what part rendered for taxation. Tho inspiration originally bringing into life these associations was worthy and just. To provide safe investments for small savings, either in weekly or monthly installments, and to provide means for securing or building homes was the original intent.

But they have outgrown this feature to an alarming extent, and have assumed the functions of banking, in some instances, on quite an extensive scale. It has Jjecome so that capital seeks investment in these associations, and through paid up shares, or certificates, draw their interest semi-annually. Large sums of money thus evade taxation. I believe the bona-fide subscriptions of stock, to be paid for in weekly or monthly installments, should not be taxed. But there is no just reason why all other interest or profit-sharing paidup shares or certificates should not be taxed, as is money loaned by the individual bank.

There has been too great inequality in the assessment of banks of similar character and like value by local boards. Bank stocks of equal value should be assessed in one section .of the state as assessed in another. There can be, and should be, more uniformity in the assessments of this class of property.

Recommendation is also made for a tax on greenbacks. 4 Fees and Salaries.

In response to a needed and demanded reform, the general assembly of 1891 enacted a law regulating the fees and salaries of state and county officers. Through a clerical blunder, whether intentional or otherwise, the purposes of this law are liable to be defeated. The recent decision of the supreme court of the state relative to this law places it in the condition which calls for your earnest consideration. That the public demands this law to be perfected so that it may stand 'ie test of the courts, there can be no cloubt. It therefore becomes your duty to remedy the weaknesses or inequalities of this law at the earliest moment.

While it is right and proper that no greater amount should be taken from the people in the way of fees and salaries than is necessary, yet the public will be found to be just and williug to allow compensation (but no more) which will give efficient and reliable service. This law should be just to both the official and the public, and should not be delayed in the time of its taking effect.

Miscellaneous Matter-*.

The governor urges encouragement of fisheries by larger appropriations, recommending $5,000 to this department and saying that to continue as now is but mockery.

Application of the metropolitan police system to cities of 10, OW population in 1890 the governor reports, and says the system has given such satisfaction that there is no disposition to return to the old plan.

Attention is called tq the erection of

an appropriate monument to mark the resting place of Jonathan Jennings, Indiana's first governor, the chief executive stating that in this a "patriotic duty has been well performed."

Soldier*' Home.

It is well understood that a measure will be presented to you for the establishment of a Soldiers' Home near the city of Lafayette, the public-spirited citizens of that enterprising city having secured and donated a tract of land for that purpose. I have not been fully informed as to the provisions contained in the bill to be presented to you—and it may not as yet have been perfected.

The motive inspiring it is most laud able, if it is to provide homes in their old age for the wives of old soldiers, as well as the veterans. They are deserving of a kindlier consideration than has usually been allotted to them by the general public.

While the husband in his march to the front may have incurred the imminent danger of losing his life, yet with him was the excitement to march, camp and battle to sustain, while to the wife, just as true to her country in a loyal devotion, there waa the constant daily sacrifice, the patient suffering and the agonizing suspense in the quiet of home. The husband's and the son's patriotism, devotion and sacrifice was not greater than that of the wife aud mother, and equally deserving a nation's gratitude.

In the poorhouses of the state there are now 1,450 men, who were old enough to have been soldiers in the war. It would bo safe to estimate that probably 350 of these were soldiyrs. How many of these may have wives, I am unable to. form an estimate.

Should you decide to appropriate a sum for this purpose, you should know within a reasonable certainty the number to provide for. In using the people's money you may afford to be generous, yet never reckless, wasteful nor extravagant. To enter upon this work, or any other similar work, otherwise than in a systematic, business way, with a thorough knowledge of the needs required, would be unjust to the people, and especially so to those who are sought to be benefited.

To arouse the belief that the public money had been squandered without care, or consideration, would be tfc clothe the undertaking in disfavor and prejudice. However laudable or praiseworthy the measure in itself may be, you should proceed with caution. The people are easily satisfied if they believe they have value received for their money expended.

Tho governor also urges that further steps be taken to continue the commission appointed by him to represent Indiana in preserving the history of our soldiers in Chickamauga's battlefield, aud the setting aside of a sufficient sum to provide representation of the state at the dedication of the battlefield as a national park in September.

The Ship Canal.

The increased interest now existing in the United States on the subject of improvement in waterways, especially the connection of the great lakes with the Mississippi valley, warrants my calling your attention to this subject, for such action as yon may consider ex-, pedient.

Nature has been bountiful to us in this resource, and the great waterways of the country will in time be developed. A ship canal connecting Lakes Erie and Michigan, and both of these lakes with the Ohio river, doubtless must bo located in Indiana, and it becomes important that we should take such action in the preliminary stages of this great enterprise as will indicate our earnest cooperation in the work.

The constitution of New York has been amended recently so as to permit the legislation necessary for the enlargement of the Erie canal, and other states have secured surveys to be made by tho general government. It is important that similar steps be taken by Indiana.

I recommend that you by joint resolution request our senators aud representatives in congress to secure from the general government a survey for a ship canal connecting Lake Michigan with the Ohio river.

United Stales Senators.

The belief is becoming general among the people that it would be wisest aud best to bring our senators in the national congress in closer touch with the people. This cannot be better accomplished than that United States senators should be elected by direct vote of the people of their states. Recently one of Indiana's senators delivered a forcible, argumentative and convincing speech upon this subject on the floor of the senate. The movement should not bo delayed, and I would suggest the adoption by you of a joint resolution calling upon our senators to renew their efforts in behalf of this measure.

Stationary Engineers.

Attention is called to the danger to life from boiler explosions, the belief being expressed that such explosions are too frequently the result of inexperienced and incompetent engineers. It is believed by the governor that a law should be enacted covering this matter.

Conclusion.

The limited time allowed you by tho constitution in which to transact the responsible and important labors intrusted to you will require the faithful utilization of every moment.

There is more to fear from too much legislation, rather than too little. It is hazardous and perplexing to chango laws with which the people have become familiar through usage. Such laws as our tax law, or election law, or school book law, with which the people have become fully accustomed and have expressed their approval, could through having new provisions added, or old ones changed, easily lead to confusion and doubt that would be unfortunate.

I trust, gentlemen, that your meeting this winter may be agreeable, aud characterized with that dignity, earnestness and harmony that should prevail among representatives of a great state, brought together with but one object—the common good—and bringing to you personally only pleasing memories of after years.

Bollinger on Trial.

VICTORIA, B. C., Jan. 9.—The preliminary examination of Peter Bellinger, charged with selling Arthur Larmour, alias Bellinger, into slavery among the Indians, commenced before a local magistrate yesterday. By the testimony o* Indians it was clearly shown that Binger sold the child to Chief of the Cliuckelsett tribe. to committed for trial.