Indiana State Sentinel, Volume 7, Number 30, Indianapolis, Marion County, 13 January 1848 — Page 2

jnöiaua State Sentinel.

ETERNAL YlGftAKce I THE FRICE Or LIBERTT. i:mASAPOLIS, JASUAHY V2. t4s. Governor's Message. Gentlemen of the Striate and of the Ilovie of Representative! : Ijivin convened f..r the peitbrmance of the important datUMcomrnittd U voui charge, by ihe people of the State it bco.ns my duty duty which it in regretted I w. p,e-' vnied fiom pe.fbim.n pie viu, toyour hie adjournment by eere bodily njury, the result of a recent acrideni to communicate to you the condition of the commonwealth, and 'o suggest auch measures may teem to be demanded for Ibe prestation and increase of the public welfare. In doinz ao.it affords me a heartfelt pleaaore to congratulate you lipon the general prosperity which has prevailed within ur borders during tne pat year. We hire enjoyed the blewinz of health m an unusual degree, Ihe aupremacy of the laws has been maintained, and the labor of the husbandman has been bountifully rewarded by luxuriant crops, which he has been enabled lo dispose of at libeial piicea, thus giving a lenewed impuUe to buMne of every description. Evidences of great improvement in the condition of the people are every where visible. Our cilie and towns are steadily increasing in wealth and population, anu the primeval forets which slill eovei a large portion of the country are rapidly disappearing, to give place to the rich products which are drawn by the hand of industry fiom a generous and fertile soil For the?, and the numberless other advantages we enjoy we owe unbounded gratitude to Gd,in whose hand re the destinies of nations, who has placed us in a land of religion, liberty and plenty j thus enabling us to advance our moral and ociäl coud.tion.and to acquire that political and physical independence, from which so large a proporiion of the human family is debarred It becomes us, therefore, lo acknowledge His goodness with suitable reveience. and to invoke a continuance of ths blessings upon our beloved country and upon our efforts to discharge with fidelity the trusts which have been cor mv ted to us. The increased prc-periiy of the country, I cannot but think, ia, under Divine Providence in a g.eat measure to be attributed to a wig change in the policy of the general government of the Union, with regard to our r VÖT; ? ! ,U'C,S" nauons. in repeal of the hi2h tariff "' aopnon oi a more liberal y.trm of duties by the act of 1846, has oot only had the effect of producing an increase of revenue to the national treasury, but an increase of profits to the agiicnlturiats. This class of our fellow citizens,constituting the main foundation of our national wealth and prosperity, has, by means of diminished duties on commerce at borae and abroad, been enabled to find a market for a greater proportioon of their surplus products than they could otherwise have disposed of to advantage. Makin every allowance for any influence on prices which may have been produced by a season of unusual scarcity in Europe. Yet when we consider that bow great oever may be the necessity of the people of other cnutitiieü, iheir ability ta purchase food from us is limited by iheir ability to pay for it by the produce of their own labor, it ia evident Iba every restriction which prevents us from teceiving such produce in return, must leduce the quantity or value of that which they receive from us. Happily for all parlies, for the over-produce r of our own cotsntry, as well as Ihe starving consumer abroad upon the occurrence of a general failure of the crops in Europe in 1S46, the restrictions which had formerly existed, were in a great measure removed, and we were prepared to reap the full benefit of the increased demand thus created. It is to be icmarked, also, that while those engaged in the cultivation of our soil have been so greatly benefitted by the opening of a foreign market, the manufacturing and commercial classes have enjoyed at least their lull snare oi tne common prospeuty. The great increase of manufactoues, and of manfacluring and commercial capital, since the passage of the comparatively low tariff of IS4o" piuvca ni'i nie uucics's are in a most nouii-hin condi tion. In fact, the agricultural interest so rreatlv nrrtm.. Dates in this country, that most others are in a gieat degree uepenaeni upon u, ana musi, to some extent, flouiish or lan ii iL d . KI h.i(ifnas nrAfUrnM. ... J . ... . .. -. " p.v-ptiuu, in ucpressea. Indiana is especially an agricultural Mate, and it is of the utmost im portance to our citizens that the sound and enlightened policy of low duties or a revenue tariff of striding off all rtstiiction upon trade uot lequiied by the wants of the public treasury, economically administered, should continue to be maintained. Many of our fellow citizens who enteitainrd seiious appreheusions that the establishment of this policy would be fiaught with great evil, if not with ruin to most of our leading interests, are doubtless gratified to find at length that their apprehensions were not only without foundalion, but that the vety iever.se is true. It affords me still greater pleasure to be able to remaik that the present increase of piospenty appears to be founded, at least to a far greater extent than heretofore, upon a solid and substantial basis. It was not brought about as merely bv a ii.f .n,i extravagant spirit of speculation, nor by a similar expansion of the currency, but mainly by the gradual and wholesome operations of a profitable trade, confined within its legitimate channels. There is now no great banking institution under national authority, oveishadowing all the other monetaiy institutions of the country, capable of wielding an almost irresistible polnical powei, and able, by means of a vast capital and Ihe control of Ihe national treasury itself, to contract or expand the amount of cunency in circulation throughout the entire eountrj , and consequently to cause the prices ot every kind of piopeity to rise or fall, as it might supply or withdiaw the means ot payment. Since the existence oi the last institution of the kind in the United States, more than ten years have elapsed, and more than six since its gigantic substitute under the same name, created by the legislature of a sister State, ceased its operations as a bank of circulation. The whole country, since their extinction, has been steadily advancing fiom adversity to proypeiiry, nd our subsequent expeiietice has, it is believed, been 'long enough to settle the so much agitated question, how far such an institution is necessary to the trade, the productiveness, the enterprise, or the general welfare of the couutiy. The constitutional treasury by which the collection and disbursement of the national revenue are entirely disconnected from banking operations, has been in full operation more than twelve months. Vet Ihe inconveniences which many no doubt, honestly anm-e-hended from the absence of a National Bank, and the establishment of an independent treasury, have not been experienced. On the contrary, during1 the time which has elapsed since its establishment, the largely increased disbursmcits rendered necessary by lheexisting war, have been made through its agency, at various and distant points without loss, and with the requisite ease and promptitude. A far greater amount of gold and silver is infused into all the the channels of our circulation, than at any former period of the history of our country. Exchanges upon all points are uniform, cheap and readily to be obtained, and in these respects they favorably contrast it is believeJ, with those of any time during the sway of a Bank of the United Stales. They are not based upon fictitious movements of Bank credit, but upon the true and only sound principle upon which they can be well regulated, namely, upon actual business transactions be tween diüerent sections of the country. When it is considered that during the experimental operation of thee leading measures of national policy, it has been their lot to encounter the adverse influences of a foreign war, which cannot fail more or less to affect the trade, and resources of a country, their intrinsic merits and the wisdom of their adoption mut be still more manifest. In fine, every thing indicates that the present appearance of financial improvement throughout the country, is no illusion, and that a fair promise is afforded, of its being substantial and permanent. Nevertheless it should be remembered that wlea the tide of prosperity is swelling to its greatest height there is the greatest need of caution. The irrepressible energy and love of enterprize of the American people, are apt to induce them, when fired with . i-MCcess, to overleap the bounds of prudence and fall into extravagant and ruinous speculations. The sure and the only eure remedy against this threatenins evil, is the observance ot economy and industry, and above all. Io resist the allurements of credit. Occasion waa taken in "former communications to express mv serious convictions that the observance of this caution is essential to the continuance of our welfare am! prosperity. Impelled by a filial regard for the State, which is the seat of my home and of my attachments, end which has laid me under deep and renewed obligations, I cannot omit, in this crisis of our affairs to once more caution my fellow citizens against a practice, which experience Las proven to be fraught with ruin. It is earnestly to be hoped that while'thcy industriously and vigorously improve the advantages that are now within their reach, they will be sufficiently careful to avoid the evila into which they have fallen from this cause on former occasions. The preaent war with Mexico is deeply to be regretted, inasmuch as the consequences of a resort to arms, are at all times seriously to be deplored, and more especially by a people blessed rith a government and institutions like ours, leveitiieless the Congress of the United Slates, tested by the constitution with the appropriate power having declared, by a vote nearly approaching unanimity, that war exists, and by the act of Mexico, it becomes t a American citizens, to uphold the right, the honor., and tiie liws of our comnon coun try, at all hazards and in every emergency. The history of our race has but too lamentably proved, that how great soever may be its desire, peace is not the power of any nation. Unless the pacific spirit and policy of one power is met by a corresponding spirit on the part of others, the questions in dispute is jeu in me last resort to the arbitrament of the sword. Few instances, it is believed, are to be found on the page of history, of a war, more justifiable bj the laws of nations so far as the United States are concerned, than that in which they are now engaged with Mexico. Passing by a long series of agressions, run ning back intu the year 1921, which was the first of her asserted independence, against the persons and property of our cilzens, for which reparation was promised by its accredited agents, only to be foil wcd by disappointment, passing by the patience and long

suffering of our own government, under the last six j

Administration., liexico at last brought on the war. by -triking the lirst blow, and shedding the firt blood. Nor can it be successfully maintained, that the advance of Mir troops beyond the Nueces, was the real cause of the war, when it is considered that lonjr before that advance, Mexico had distinctly nnd repeatedly taken the ground through her minister at Washington, her government at Home and her generals in the held, that the annexation of Texas was the true cause and origin ot the war which has ensued. Before the advance of our troopa too, it mi repeatedly nnd formally published by ditfereut commanders of the Mexican armies, that their ob) net and mission, was to conquer nnd wrest from our possesion, one of the atatra of this Union, a state which had been made such, with the due solemnities of law, and that too, from territory acquired before the present administration of our government came into power. This war then, it u true, was a war of conquest, but it was ao on the part of Mexico. Such eertainly is the fuel, if any faiili is to be placed in the aolemn declarations of a nation, made through its authorized functionaries, nnd followed up by corresponding action. It is demonstrable then, that the war was brought about by the unjustifiable acts nnd aggressions of the Mexican government; for it is assumed u a proposition that is incontrovertible, that whatever difference of opinion may have existed in our own country as In the mere policy or expediency of the acquisition of Texas so far na the United States were concerned, yet that Mexico had no reaaon to complain ot ihat measure. That territory was at the time, both by right and in fact, as independent of the control of Mexico, as was Mexico herself of the crown of Spain, against which she had also previously rebelled, .and it wan st recognized by the principal nation of the civilized world. Under these circumstances, to have been deterred from doing an act not improper in iUelf, clearly justified by tlie laws of nation, and called for by ihn unanimous voice of those interested, by the threat of a party, who was not entitled to intefere, would have invited further aggression from the same quarter, and lowered , the character of our country in the estimation of all other nation. In the progress of the war thus lorced upon us, far from being actuated by a mere spirit of conquest or of rapine, the olive-branch has been unilormly borne in advance, and the cruelty and faithlessness of an insidious foe, have been met on the part of our troops generally, with a forbearance, a kindness and a magnanimity rarely equalled. We have desired only to sustain the national dignity nnd honor, nnd to secure such result as would atl'ord some guaranty for the peaceful conduct of an arrogant and faithless race for the future, and a full and just indemnity for the past. lining engaged in the war, humanity itself would seem to require its energetic prosecution, as well for the purpose of saving the effusion of blood by bringing it to a speedy close, as to inspire that and oilier powers with sucli a respect for our prowess as will, for a long period, it is hoped, save us from the necessity of again having recoui&e to arms. That the indemnity to which we are entitled, should consist of territory, is manifest in view of the crip'plcd resources and exhausted revenues of Mexico, the instability of her government, the revolutionary character of her people, her fickleness in relation to her past moneyed arrangements, as well as from her immense nominal possessions, which lie conterminous with our western boundaries, which to a great extent, are unreclaimed from the hand of nature and uninhabited, and which in the hands of the present possessors are likely to remain so for an indefinite period. And while such an indemnity will it is believed best comport with th interests and ability of Mexico, it is the most desirable for the United State?. Our numbers, which increase at a rate to which the history of the world scarcely affords a parallel, and the unequalled enterprise and industry of our people, will soon require additional lands for their accommodation. The citizens of this State have not only responded to every call that has been made upon them by the general government for aid and assistance, but they have tendered the fervices of many additional companies, which could not be accepted. The .three regiments of volunteers which were raised during the year 1340, have returned home with honor, after having seen much arduous service. Owinjr to some misapprehensions.or misrepresentations of the facts, much injustice was done to one of those regiments in the accounts which were first published of the brilliant victory of Buena Vista. Since then, however, public opinion has been set right upon that point, and it is now universally acknowledged that no troops upon the field contributed more bravely and effectively in deciding the fate of the day against greatly superior number, than the two regiments of volunteers from tins State which had the good fortune to be present. Cesides several companies of regulars, chiefly raised in this State during the two last years, two other regiments of volunteers have, in the last summer and autumn, departed for 'the field of action, the details as lo which are contained in the accompanying report of the Adjutant General. I cannot too strongly recommend to your attention the careful preservation of the rights and privileges of the brave men who are thus absent in the service of their country. In every constitutional measure, having for its object such protection or extension of their political or personal rights as the circumstances may seem to demand, or to evince the gratitude so justly due them from the State for their services and sacrifices, I assure you of my thorough co-operation. The ordinary expenses of the State Government for the fiscal year ending on the Hist day of October last, were $90.702 07. The ordinary expenses for the year 1S4?, are estimated by the Auditor in his report at the present session, nt 71,900. The number of polU returned for 18i7,(tstimatin for the counties of Cass, Crawford, JelT..Tson, Lake, Pulaski and Wells, from which returns have not been received, as being only the same as last year,) are 129,857, being an increase of 2,702 over that of the preceding year. The value of the entire taxable property returned for 1847, (estimating in like manner for the same counties,) is 124,558,000, leaving an increase of $1,903,596, over that of last year. The amount of revenue paid into the State treasury during the last fiscal year, including some previous arrearages, i 302,347,07, being $f3,4SG,07 more than was paid in during the previous fiscal year. The assessment for 1847 is, for State purposes $150,674,77, and for county, township, road and school purposes collectively $562,071.29. Add to these sums the delinquencies of former years $127,258,47, and the total amount of the duplicates for 1347, is $1,100,004,41. A slight examination of our present revenue system will be sufficient to demonstrate its great susceptibility of improvement. Under its workings, it is quite manifest that a large amount of the invisible wealth of the community, such as corporation and other stock, cash on hand or at interest, and the more portable and valuable kinds of personal property; &c. is not found on the assessment rolls. This description of taxabies is generally owned by those who are the best abl to pay, and their non-assessment leaves the burden of taxation so much the heavier on property which is visible, and especially on lands, which cai.not. escape notice and scrutiny, and which the true policy or our btate requires, should not be visited with disfavor. The assessment sheets of 1347 as com pared with those of 184(3, show a decrease on persona property, in some counties, to the amount of $20,000, in one county to $ 10,000, in another to $50,990 and in another to S7Ö.000. The Auditor of State liaa presented some further facts and reflections, in relation to the present mode of assessment, at the close of Iiis report mado at the present session, to- which your attention is invited." Although careful and elaborate legislation is probably neefffsnry to make the system such as it ought to be, yet it is believed that very little labor will be found sufficient to remove ils most glaring evils, and the subject ia recommended to your early consideration. By an act of Congress to establish n uniform time for holding elections for electors of President and Vice President in all the Slates of tha Union, approved Junoifr 23, Ii 13, it is provided thai the electors shall be appointed in each Stnte on the Tuesday next afi'i the first Monday in I lie month of November of the year in which they ara to be appointrd. As the day for lioldinjr, such election heretofore, in this State, has been on the first Monday in Nov. tf such year, and as by tha esisting State laws, the returns of the same from the sa viral townships are required in (e delivered to the proper Clerk of tha Ciicuit Court on the following Wednesday, the postponement of the lime of delivery of such returns until the Thursday after the election, is respectfully recommended, in order that the same lime tnny be afforded for maturing the returns under tha present, as wns allowed under Ihe former law. Uy the present law, too, the Governor is required to transmit In the electors, certificates of their election, by the hands of the marshal, or of special messenger. From motives of economy, it is presumed, that the Marshals will always be employed in the transmission, unless in case of emergency. If they are ao employed, it is desirable that the Legislature should settle the mooted question, whether they shall receive any compensation for that service in addition to that which the present law gives them for travelling and returning, over nearly or quite the same ground, in making their returns to the Secretary of State. And if it should become necessary to employ una or more special messengers for the performance of that service, some

provuion hould also b made by law, settling the omount

and pointing out the mode of their compensation By reference to the Aud. tor's report, it appears that the principal of the late suspended debt of Indiana, now amounts (or rather.at the commencement of the operations under its late arrangement it did amount) to $11,G5,OOJ, in the shape of outstanding bonds. On this amount, no interest had been paid, until that arrangement, since in the year 1341, when the credit of the State was prostrated. The amount of the annual interest on that debt, is over half a million of dollars, $331,770,1 payable half yearly. This debt. large in itself, was therefore increasing ot a rapid and I tearful rate, and in View of that and of our limited ! resources, many of our heit citizens, involved in dej pair, and anxious to leave their property unincumber ed to their children, were sacrificing their homes for far less than their value, and leaving the State. The same causes were preventing men of capital and industry from coming among ns to purchase property, improve the country, and add to our wealth. All tins. t it is evident, had a tendency to increase the gfoom i and despondency that pervaded our business a-iir j generally, and to diminish the ability of the people j (the great mass of whom were also involved in deW) to meet their individual engagements. Add to these j considers tlms the example already set by other in debted Slates in resuming payment of their obligations, aud it is not surprising that a general anxiety should have existed in Indiana, that its character, if possible, should also be vindicated. The great obstacle that presented itself to bo desirable a result was

the great disparity between the amount of the debt suffered much through past improvidence, may we ne- whenever a person is acquitted of crime on the ground and the ability of the State for its discharge by means ver neglect the lessons it has taught us. Let no debt f insanity and he is found by the jury yet to be inof taxation. . be incurred hereafter, unless in case of the most im- sane, or whenever a convict becomes insane while in

It was under this conviction, generally, if not

vcrsally entertained, that I favored the principle of at the 6ame time be made to pay the interest, and for 'Hospital. The former should not be suffered to go disposing of the profits of the Wabash and Erie canal the final extinguishment of the principal.' Few will large, at the peril of life and property in the cornin satisfaction of so large a portion of the debt, as be found. Lardy enough to advocate another general J '"unity, the latter is not a propei subject of punish-

to leave the balance within the ability of the State to pay from the treasury, as the only practicable means ten the ötate wiiereüy to avoid tne evils enumeraieu, and to wipe off the reproach of repudiation ; and I earnestly recommended that the proposition should be respecifully considered, in the hope that it might eventuate in an arrangement honorable to the "State and satisfactory to its creditors. The result was the passage at the same session of the bill, which received my approval on the 19th of January, 131(i, to

provide for the funded debt of the State, and for the ns progressive increase. Tne inducements for its j,,al progressive reformation ot abuses, and that pocompletion of the Wabash and Erie canal to Evans- investinent in works of this character, are very great, j! Jiticol amelioration, which are the results of indeville. and the only apprehension that now need be felt is, (pendent thought and free enquiry. I am therefore Early in the following July, a letter was addressed that sufficient care will not be taken in the charteriu-jj much gratified to perceive the increased interest w hich So my department on the part of the cor.imiltee of 0f companies for their construction, to protect the 3,as latterly been manifested by the people of this bondholders, (under whose authority the proposition rights of the nublic. 'State in relation to the important subject of education.

had been made, which had resulted in the passage of the bill referred to,) enclosing resolutions adopted by the committee, in which an opinion was expressed favorable to the principle of that bill, namely, "the payment of one half of the principal and interest by taxatiou, and the other hilf by the property and tolls of the canal, from the Slate line adjoining Ohio to Evansville; such property to be assigned to three trustees, and the State to bu freed from responsibility on that uortion of the debt and interest so to be eecured." In mv next annual message, that of last session, in

communicating the fact that the principle of the arrange- men(j lije mo8t ecnomy now rendered, if pssiment offered by the bill, had received the assent of the y desirable than ever. Our faith is restored.

committee, occasion was taken to state that within tne sphere of mv own observation, and so far as my informa tion extended, the expression of the great majority of our own citizens was also decidedly in its favor, it was iurther stated that the bondholders desired some modification

of the bill by the legislature, which I was informed would upon the Executives of other States and Territories, not conflict with the principle of the bill, and yet were for fugitives from justice of this Slate, and provision is deemed essential for carrying into full effect its fair and hy the existing law, that all expences incurred obvious intent, and that any such modifications if they jn ,liejr recnplure ..4f ,iie Governor shall allow the added nothing to the burdens of the people, wcudjtwa appropriated by believed, be responsive to their will, and, it was also trust- j t t j ed, would receive the favorable action of the Legislature. Hie general assembly, for such purposes. The action on the proposed modifications resulted in the As no such appropriation has ever been made, the passage of the supplementary bill, which received my ap- law has remained a dead letter, and the custom has proval January 27, 1847. Both of these bills contenipla- been to make the required allowances, in the specific ted that on the surrender of any of the State bonds, they appropriation bill?. By this omission, not only has should be cancelled, and new certificates issued to the uiere been a delay of payments for the services and exholders in lieu of them, and that only one-half of the tn- pencea of ,,e agent, but in the absence of correct inferi due on them which i is i fixed at the .uniform rate of treasury is exposed to the danger of five per cent per annum,! should be paid from the trea- . . :.j suryf and tlöther Ualf exclusively from the profits of exorbitant claims. A standing appropriation of a the canal. Both of the bills also contemplated that the small amount, would be sulLcient for this purpose, bondholders who should come into the arrangement, and the adoption of a rule, requiring a satisfactory should finish the canal to Evansvillc, at theirownexpen.se, verification of all claims for such services and expenaided by the proceeds of tha lands, &c., which were cea before the same shall bi allowed, will serve the granted to the State for that purpose, and they were to cause alike of justice and economy, look to the profits of the canal alone, to repay thera the The views and recommendations contained in the costs of its construction and management. accompayin report of the Adjutant General, will But while the original bill cave the State the option of f - . r j afterwards throwing half of the principal also, upon doubtless receive a you hands, tha attention and the canal for payments, in the supplementary bill, (and consideration, to which they are entitled. The coinconsequently by the law as it now stands) that object is mendation bestowed upon this olhcer in my Iat annual at once effected by one half of the surrendered debt, both Message, in relation to the discharge of his duties duprincipal and interest resting exclusively upon the capal ring that year, has been fully merited by the zeal, for payment, the State being released from all further re- fidelity and promptitude, with which he has performed spousibility in relation to it those of the present year, varied and laborious as they The great and leading principle therefore of the have been. The nature, extent and value of these first bill, namely the satisfying of one half of the services, can better be ascertained from the report surrendered debt from the canal, remains unchanged, itself, and I suggest the justice and propriety of manor does the supplementary bill involve the State any king him an additional compensation for the same. further in debt. The main difference between the bills. It will be seen from the reoort of the Quarter Master

cotisists in the latter giving to tne oouanoiuers who . .- . . hi, i.i should hnish the canal, a priority in the payment oi their claims and expenses about its construction, out of the tolls and profits, over those w ho would not join in its construction. The latter class however, by surrendering their bonds, would still have the interest on one half of their debt (equal to two and a half per

cent on the whole) satisfied from the treasury, as in office, also merit, in my judgment, further compenthe case of the others, and they would also be paid in sation. whole or in part the interest on the other half, from Occasion has been repeatedly taken in my former the profits of the canal if any remained, after paying messages, to allude to the great amount of our local those entitled to a priority, as before stated. Even if or special legislation, the danger of injustice by its they received nothing from the canal therefore, the means, to individual interests, its expense to the trcaamount of the interest paid to them by their acccdinj sury, and the large portion of time it necessarily octo the present arrangement would be only one sixth cupies, to the detriment of that mature and thorough less, than they would have received under the rival consideration which is due to subjects of a general plan introduced into the legislature, which proposed character. to give but three of the five per cent which their bonds It was also recommended that the necessary power called for. By the rival plan too, the canal would should by general laws be conferred upon other and not have been finished, as the credit of the State was more appropriate tribunals, to afford the necessary broken down, and she could hardly have been expected relief, sought by means of private acts, to construct it, with only the lands granted by Con- The subject has been deemed of so grave importance gress for that purpose. that the consJtution of New York, as lately atnendThis muuificent grant then, amounting to about ed, has a provision against this evil engrafted in it. 800,000 acres of land, would in that case by the terms I was therefore much gratified to find the attempt to of the grant, have reverted to the United States, and obviate it in part, by the passage, at the last session, thus have been forever !ot to Indiana. of the act to authorize the formaion of voluntary asHy the supplementary bill, all bondholders are al- snciations, approved January 1!7, 1847. It is hoped lowed to subscribe towards the completion of the ca- that no bill will now be introduced into the legislature ral until to as late a period as the first of November for an object, the accomplishment of which can be seJast, and to surrender their bonds at any time before cured under that act. It is not intended to say that the first of Ihe following month. U was also provid- the act is not fusceptible of amendment; on the coned that unless the subscription towards the canal was trary it is believed it might be made to have a wider made, and bonds to the amount of 4,000,000 prin- scope with advantage. But that or any other defect cipal surrendered by the times limited in the bill for can be easily remedied. those purpose respectively, the arrangements should It is earnestly recommended that, os far as practicease and be void. Apprehensions were expressed on cable, the residue of the broad field of private legislate part of some opposed to the' measure, that a com- tion be occup'ed by a few general laws. Permit tne paratively few wealthy persons controlling bonds to also, again to call to your favorable attention, the that (or a little larger) amount, would get possession subject of giving justices of the peace exclusive juof ihe canal, to the exclusion of the residue of the risdiction of divers trivial offences now punished by bondholders, who on account of their supposed pover- indictment in the circuit courts, at great expense to ty, would be unable to pay their quota towards com- the country, and operating, by mesns of costs, and pleting it, and by reason of the priorities already loss of time, as a disproportionate punishment to the spoken of be excluded from any share in the profits, individual. I also commend to your favorable regard The objection was not that the hill of last session im- ihe policy of establishing houses of Refuge, in disposed any creator burdens upon the people of the tricls embracing a sufficient number of counties for State than did the bill of the previous session, (for the purpose, of the punishment and moral discipline there was no pretext for that,) but that one part of of female and juvinile delinquents; where they will be our creditors would be benelilted by it more than the beyond the contagion of confirmed vice and hoary others, and that a large portion of them being unable crime. to come into the arrangement, their claims would Iy reasons in favor of these measures are given to thus be virtually repudiated. The fear indeed was some extentin my last two annual message, to which expressed by some, that but one half of our debt you are respectfully referred. would be brought in (being 5,545,000 of principal, The steady and successful progress made on the with the interest) that amount being necessary.be- part of our benevolent institutions, as will more fully fore the deed of trust fr the canal, and its appurte- appear from the annual reports in relation to thein. is nances, should be finally executed. a" subject of just congratulation. The Asylum for The right to priority of payment, however, seems the Deaf and Dumb was commenced as a State Instiin practice to have produced an effect precisely the tution, as late as the 1st of October, 1841, (although ... .. . . - i l : . i r -i

reverse of that nppreiienuen uy some, namely, me ra- it naa existea as a pnvaie scuooi, wuo a icw pupns, piJ surrender of a heavy amount of bonds, in the for about one year previously.) and it already numbers hope of benefitting by the priority ; while as to the 80 pupils. This ia understood to bo a much larger first bill, which dfd not contain the clause in ques- number than is found in the institution of any other tion, not a bondholder would accept of its provisions. State, in proporiion to population, although several It is now cause of congratulation with all to find of them have been established for more than a quarter that at our last advices more than $9,000,000 of of a century. bonds, exclu.ive of interest, had already been cancel- The Institute for the education of the Blind, cornled under tha arrangement. menced it operations only on the 1st of October last. I wm also informed at the commencement of the with 9 pupila, which are now increased to 20, and present session, by the trustee residing at New several others are soon expected. York, that when he left that city, he had information The erection of suitable buildings for each of theso that the surrender to the amount of about half a mil- institution", on the eligible sites already purchased lion more was shortly expected, and hopes are enter- for that purpose, is much needed. The financial contained that the bulk of the remainder will finally dition of the State requires, that while they should come into the measure. Having been satisfied Ihat be comfortable, commodious and permanent, and so tlm rpnuisite number f bonds had been surrendered constructed at to be susceptible of euch additions us

to the Agent of State for exchange and cancellation, i .mniml liari hfxTt mill nvtr tn.1 wards the construction of the canal, the deed of con

veyance bearing date the 31st daj of July last was duly executed to the trustee, as required uy the U,h section of the supplementary bill, and consequently the original bill, us modified by that, is in full force and operation. Whatever differences of opinion may have existed heretofore in relation to this measure, it is confidently hoped, thy,t now, as the law of the land, and closely connected as it is with the character and prosperity of the State and of its citizens, it will

receive, as in my judgment it justly merits, the support j of nil, and that nothing will be done or omitted, which may be calculated lit the least to violate good faith, or to impair the cllicieucy of the arrangement. The first half yearly interest required by the law was promptly paid on the tirt day of July lust, and although it was found necessary for the legislature at (he present session to authorise a loan of the omount of tin interest due on the lirst d;y of January, yet that was not because the present rate of taxation is not sufficient to comply with the' new arrangement, (for it is deemed amply sunicieut) but because the revenue is not required by the existing law to be paid into the treasury until the 4th .Monday of Februar), and hence it became necessary to merely anticipate the revenue by the loan in question. It is respectfully recommended to your early consideration, to adopt sonitf permanent measure for preventing any such temporary embarrassment in future. The final arrangement of our public debt cannot fail to exercise a favorable influence upon the propetVi the morals and the character i f the State, and is cause of heartfelt congratulation to all. We have uni-Iterative necessity, and not then except provision be system of improvements. Bjt the danger Ties in commencing one by degrees. If a favor is granted to one section ot the State it gives rise to demands from another, and finally there n imminent danger of irresistible combinations of interests for the prosecution of a number of works, neither of which could find favor alone. As a general rule, such works are fHr better left to individual enterprise, under the great law of sunulv and demand. Already we iiave a lare amount of capital in the country, with the prospect of If Capitalists would not be justified in risking their means in the Construct i o of a particular work or works, the State now j st emerging from insolvency, should not be required to do no. The level surface and fei tile soil of Indiana, offer great inducements for the constructions of rail roads, with a view to orofit. and the must profitable because the most reeTed will bo first undertaken. When constructed by private or associated means, there is less extravagance, and less danrer of the faithlessness of agents, than if tiiev are constructed bv the State. n dismissim' this tonic. I beir once more to recomand it must be preserved. Let the resolve of every heart he tnat it shall be preserved. Occasions frequently arise for making requisitions General, also submitted, that that officer, lias been . . .. . . ,-. . . i engaged, since your last session with characteristic energy and faithfulness, in the collection and repair of the public arms, which had been lost and scattered jn various parts of the State, besides attending to their reception, preservation and distribution. The increase in his correspondence, and in the regular duties of his may be required hereafter by an increase of pupil, tuithrmt nmrrinrr thi rrpner.il desicrn nnd nrme.irn lire. - 1 yet they should be in a atylc of imple elegance vjth-

out unnecessary expense or a useless display of mere ornament It is gratifying to learn that the hospital for tl.c Insane will probably be so far constructed by the 1st of July next, as to be ready for the reception of a few patients at that time, and that the work will rapidly advance to entire completion. 1 cannot doubt that each of these institutions will

; continue to receive, at your hands, that aid and patronage to which they are so well entitled. The people of Indiana deserve great credit, and they will doubtless receive the prayers and tearful thariks of many of these unfortunates, for the cheeri fulness with which they have paid a specific tax, in a .tune of great adversity, for the establishment aud support of these benevolent institututions ; and, it is hoped, it will not be forgotten by those concerned, ihat the best return that can be made in behalf of the (ihe inmates for this kindness, will be a strict economy and fidelity in the expenses and management of the Establishments. The facts and suggestions contained in the accom panying report of the Visitor of the State Prison, will commend themselves to your consideration. Since its preparation, it has been gratifying to learn that the convicts have been removed to the Iew Prison, which will operate much to the advantage of iheir health and comfort. It will be seen that two of the convicts are represented as insane. In this connection, and in view of the expected J early completion of the Hospital, I beg to call your attention to the importance of providing by law, that

the State Prison, he shall forthwith be placed in the

ft ment, and both require that moral discipline and ! medical treatment, which would be found in the Hos f pai, anu which recent experiments r.ave proved 60 frequently effective for the restoration of reason It is upon the intelligence and virtue of its citizens, the State must chiefly depend for their social elevation and happiness, for their just and equal participation in the advantages of an enlightened freedom, for the perpetuity of our unrivalled institutions in j; 'heir original purity and republican simplicity, and i"or S 0 i Our higher institutions for the instruction of youtl in literature and science, are a source of just pride and of great usefulness to the State, and it is gratifying to believe that they have never been in a more flourishing condition than at present. In relation to the far more important subject of common school education, it is much to be regretted ' ai present, wnen the lain, and credit ot the btate lare process of resuscitation, and its available means i nrc urgently reqvired to meet the enjrajreinents enter- ! 0,1 int0 wtn its creditors, as well as those occasioned by our benevolent institutions, we are unable by legis lation, to afford such immediate and substantial aid, jus in a more flourishing condition of the finances of Estate would be more in accordance with our desires, und with a sound and enlightened policy. Much how ever may be done, it is hoped, towards the adoption of a system, to be more fully matured in future, which will increase the usefulness, the efficiency, and the amount of the present school funds, secure their faithful application, extend the benefits to be derived from them more equally and satisfactorily and especially which will ensure a greater degree of uniformity and promptitude in the collection of school returns and other statistics bearing upon the question; -which is almost a prerequisite to any prudent and useful legislation, upon a subject which has caused so great a diversity t f judgment. Pursuant to resolutions passed by both branches of the General Assembly at its last session, recommending the friends of common ßchool education to meet in convention at Indianapolis on the 26th of May last, such a convention did assemble and three gentlemen were appointed to draft a bill for the purpose of remedying the defects complained of in the school laws now in force. These gentlemen haie fulfilled the object of their appointment by preparing a bill to provide for the improvement of common schools, to be laid before the Legislature. From the source whence it originated, and the care and labor which have doubtless been bestowed upon it, it will no doubt receive a mature and a turn live consideration at your I tn ri?a A o htr n tiriMi i in.it rtfttta lull it ur ill vn

,o j u r,.,.13.w.. v. ..V, wi Kjtue diu, out preitrreu regulars, into operation, until approved by a majority of the ! Mr. Crittenden's substitute was lo,t bv 10 to 26. people, it will be proper in Case of its pissage. to pub- Adjourned. lishand circulate it extensively, in order that every House. The President submitted copies of the corvoter may have an opportunity of fully understanding rt.Spondence with Gen. Taylor, its provisions, before he is required to pas upon it at , ya-iT Gaines was sworn" in. Toe bill for retoriu the ballot box, on the 2d Monday of March next. the Southern mail to the old route", was under d.scusI .tn aware that I have touched upon seven! topic, in rny si(m Ulj lhe Ho ai;ourned views as to which, I shall nut be so foitunaie to have the . J

1 concurience of a portion of your number; topics too, which S gt,me may icgard ss of national concernment only, and theie fote as inappropriate.

Hut it will, it if trusted, be auffioent to say that the j Twiggs, arrived at Vera Crui on the 23d of Decemprevailin? usage in this regard, .must have cre.ted a general , Ker. and wjth it - manv ...u fr, n,t

expectation, that some expression on my part would be made on the present occasion, in relation to these questions, silence would give rise to misconsiructioo. feeling it to be my duty to meet frankly every such expectation, believing these questions to be of wide and momentous beating; and regarding the present c.isis in our, aff.in . as imminent. I have f i oc1 v ail rinrrd men view, and indicated such a rnmu nf policy, as are, in my judgment, most conducive to the pros perity of ihe people, and to the honor and character rf the countiv. In dome so however, it has been my wish to sub seive Ihe cause of truth, without wounduii the feelings of any. The greatest advance" ia the onwsid tide of human improvement, have taken place under free governments, and have mainly resulted from fieedum of thought and of speech. Mere diifeience of opinion therefore, so far as it excites candid discussion, is promotive of the discovery of truth, and is far fiom being a iubjct of tegrrt. But when the to oiual, but by no means necessary attendant upon paity divisions, passion and prejudice, aie found so far to prevail, as to es-

irange neari inai ueai in UIU5UII ujwu uiuci reai questions roi i , . ht ri j i I human concernment, to .ever ihe tip. ...d d,.de.. ihe!eral ra,,ks ,tl rtIat? Mr. Clay and Ins course

charities of ocial ioteicourse, and to blunt the perception of liu'.h itself; it exhibits a mournful picture of human weakness and is cause of deep sonow lo the citizen and patriot. However we may differ in relation to such questions, let us not folget Ihat there aie many oihers appeilaiuing to us as a State, and impuiUut to the prospeiity and happiness of our fellow citizens, a to which it is bo(cd we can cordially agree and co-operate. In conclusion it becomes us to implore the aid of Him ic whose hands are the destinies of nations, and without whose aid all our attempts will be vain, that he will be pleated to mite upon our councils, aud bless our effoits for the common welfare. JAMES WMTCOMB. Is ot ar apolis, January 11th, 184S. Mexican Trophies. The War Office, the Union says, has received, by the officers who have recently arrived from Mexico, various trophies of the war. Among them are two beautiful brass wall pieces of ordnance, sent by Gen. Scott, and brought to this city by Col. Andrews. The most curious of these trophies is the black flag of the Guerilleros. The material is bombazette. The ornaments anu letters in the centre, upon the red ground, are worked with green silk upon black cloth pieces, except the squares, which are worked with white. But the most remarkable is a small penant on the top, made of black, 21 inches by Uf, with various military ornaments. On the top and bottom are a death's head and cross bones. In the centre these ominous word "A doi cuartef (Jive no Quarter. This staff and flag were taken nt La Mira Flores, on the 13th August, 1847, from the guerillas who attacked Lieut. Hammond's party. Indiana House or Representatives. Whole number. 100 whijrs 52, democrats 48. Natives of the State only 15; natives of Ohio, 18; Maine, 1; Virginia, 8; Maryland. 6; N. Carolina, 4; Pennsylvania, 12; Kentucky, 17; New Yora, 7; Ireland, 2; Vermont, 2. Occupations Farmer 44, Mechanic 1, Physicians G, Tanner 1, Lawyers 27, Drusrjrist 1, Merchants 5, Cooper 1, School teachers 2, Tailor 1, Saddler 1, Livery Stable keeper 1, Shoemakers 2, Blacksmith 1, Miller 1, Millwright 1. Married 81, single 10, double 1, bachelor 1, solus 1, widower 1. Between 20 and 20 years of age, 21; between SO and 40, 39; between 40 and 50, 27; between 50 and 0i, 9. Naval. -By correspondence from Pensarola, of the 12;h instant, lhe N. O. Picayune is informed o the arrival in that port, on that morning, of the U. S tsloreship Elector, four days and seven hours from Vera Cruz. Dr. Harrington, Midshipmen Genet, Dallas, Warring, Powell and Pasteur, U. S. N., arrived in the Elector. She also had on board twenty-three sick seamen, fur the hospital at Pensacola. The next vessel of war. which may be expected from Vera J1 I 1' I Cruz, will be the aloop of war Saratoga, with Mr. rist on board, as that vessel was supposed tu be j waiting jor mm

Tribute of Ilespect. Pursuant to a thort notice a very large meeting cT the citizens of iluncie, Delaware county, Indiana, w'as convened at the court on Thursday evening the 6th of January, 1343. to pay the last tribute of respect to the memory of our much res;eeted and deply lamented fellow citizen, the late Hon. ANDREW KENNEDY. The niectiug was called to order by Mr. Frederick E. Putnam, and upon his motion Thomas J. Sample, Esq., was called to the chair, and .Mr. James L. Kussey appointed Secretary. The object of the meeting was succinctly staled from the chair, after which, on motion of Mr. T. S. Netly, a committee of five was appointed bv the chair to pre

pare and present to the meeting a suitable preamble and resolutions. Messrs. T. S. Neeley, E. CofTeen W aiarian, r . i. i uinam ana vr. b. i'. Author my. comprised the committee. The committee haviii" retired for a short time, by their chairman 3Ir. Nee ley, " reported the following preamble and resolutions which were unanimously adopted, viz: Whereas, in theüispensations of Providence, we are called to mourn the untimely death of the Hon. Andrew Kennedy, our worthy and respected fellow citizen, who departed this life at the city of Indianapolis, on the night of the 31st of December lat; and while we mingle our sympathies, with the tears of a deeply afllicted, and bereaved wife, children and friends, we offer this our feeble tribute of respect to the memory of one who in the various stations of public aud private life, which he was called to fill, ever sustained the character of an honorable man and worthy citizen; therefore, Resolved, that in the death of the Honorable Andrew Kennedy, our State has lost one ot her well tried and worthy sons society a useful member a wife one of the kindest of huband his children a tender and indulgent father and the world at large an honest man. Resolved, that this community deeply deplore the dispensation of Providence, which has "removed from our midst the subject of these resolutions, and that as a slight tribute of respect to his worth, we have the public bell tolled at 9 o'clock to-murrow, and that the ministers of the different churches in this village be requested to each improve the mournful occasion" by a suitable discourse at such time as may bet suit the convenience ot the respected relict of the deceased. RtsiJud, that the heartfelt sympathies of this meeting are tendered to the widow, and friends of the deceased; and that whilst we mingle our tenrs with theirs, we commend them to the mercies of Him who has said, "Leave your fatherless children, I will preserve them alive, and let your widows trust in rr.e." Resolved, tiiat the secretary prepare and present to Mrs. Kennnedy, and to the aged and honored father of the deceased each a copy of these resolutions. Resolved, that the proceedings of this meeting be signed by the officers, und a copy sent to the offices of the State Sentinel and Journal with a request for their publication. And the meeting adjourned. T. J. SAMPLE, Chm-n. J. L. TküssEY, Sect'y. Journal please copy.) Congress. Washington, Jan. G. Mr. Badger, from Committee on,Military affiiirs, reported a bill to extend tne law to secure the Cil.n" up of regiments" hich was read and passed. The special order of the day being the ten regiment bill, was resumed. 1 Mr. Hale denounced the Administration, and opposed voting men or mony. He favored the recall of the army, and feared that voting means authorized the President to do what he pleased. He thought that patriotism yields to policy, und men favor Ihe war because they regard popular opinion more than their own judgements. JJill postponed. Mr. Kever Johnson announced his intention to reply to Mr. Hale. Adjourned. The House resumed the Southern mail bill, cn which a warm debate continued tiil the hour of adjournment. Washington, Jan. 5. The Senate, after the disposal of some unimportant business, proceeded to the consideration of the ten regiment bill. Mr. Crittenden moved a substitute to place thirty thousand volunteers at the disposal of the President. He thought au army that could conquer like Scott's could hold possession of acquired territory against any odds, and he could see no reason now for increasing troops one half, in Mexico. Mr. Cass defended the bill. Mr. Calhoun opposed the bill and substitute. Mr. JefTerson Davis expressed himself in favor of i . !. r J 1 i iuiii vi Iii ! A tjatn from the cify of Mexico, under General soldiers. 1 rain not molested on the read down. It was rumored that Gen. Marshall, at Jalapa, j would inarch on Orizaba on the 27th, were Jarauta J was encaged recruitin". GenLane with a detachment of troops, fought the .. i v ' TlTAV.M.n . . . 1 I) 1 T II.'., uicjiuiia m iiiacB caueu xvicianioras anu oeieaieu them, taking several prisoners. Lieut. Ridgely, Lane 6 assistant adjutant, was killed. General Twiggs had commenced duties as Governor of Vera Cruz. Col. Bankhead would leave for the city of Mexico immediately: Gen. Pearce intends resigning . his commission ; who, with Col. Smyth, is bearer of despatches, and arrived in New Orleans. A Smack of Oitositiox. The division in the fed. . is Mr. prowing more serious. The Boston Courier, Webster's orjan, is particularly savage, and gives vent in a tirade which sets firth its griefs in a temper especially ill-natured for an "all the decency" ssheet. It 6ays: " Worship him, all ye Gods.' It is most fortunate for a small class of people, (of which, unfortunately for ourself, we happen to be one,) that those w ho set up an image, and demand of all nations, people, and languages, when they hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, eackbtit, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of music, to fall down and worship the said image, have not at their control a burning fiery furnace, wherein to cast the Shadrachs, Meshacks, and Abednegoes, who withhold their adoration. Were it otherwise, who could tell the fate that might await the poor wretches who thus brave the command of the political Nebucliadnezzarscf our country! Professional Brevitv. When Ma6on was preparing the case of E. K. Avery, aud had examined about two hundred witnesses, somebody called to see him. The legal gentleman sent word that he was occupied and could not be interrupted. "Eut the man is a witness, a Methodist minister. "Call him up," said Mason. "Well, sir, what can you testify !" 'I have had a vision : two angels have appeared to me, and told me that Brother Avery ia innocent " "Let them be summoned," said Mason, and resumed his work. C7"The Boston Courier, Mr. Webster's organ, has the following fling at Mr. Clay : " The right of search-, claimed by British officers, was the cause or one of the avowed causes of the war of 1812. Mr. Clay lias very recently reminded his countrymen that that war was a war for free trade and sailors' rights, although unfortunately for the credit of his memory, he forgot to add that he signed the treaty which put an end to ihat war, but which effected no settlement of the question which was the primal and most aggravating cause of it." Another Wonderful Press. A Mr. William Ileaton, of New Yoru, has invented a printing press, which it is said U calcn'aled to print otf eight $hcets iu a single revolution of the cylinders,. taking an impression on both sides of each sheet. The number of sheets which it is estimated that it will print in an hour, is not less than twenty tiiousand. Tho wear of the types is also likely to be diminished by the invention. The Mayor of S'Louis has vetoed the bill, appropriating $73,000, tobe devoted to the building of two dike fnm the head and f"ot of Bloody Island, to the Illinois shore. Reasons given, large. indebtedness of the city, and the unsaleable character of its bond.

SO

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