But let them persevere in their affectionate vigilance over that precious depository of American happiness,--the constitution of the United States.

And when in the calm moments of reflection, they shall have retraced the origin and progress of the insurrection, let them determine whether it has not been fomented by combinations of men, who, careless of consequences, and disregarding the unerring truth that those who rouse can not always appease a civil convulsion, have disseminated, from an ignorance or perversion of facts, suspicions, jealousies, and accusations of the whole government." The President could not omit this fair occasion, once more to press on congress a subject which had always been near his heart.

After mentioning the defectiveness of the existing system, he said-- "The devising and establishing of a well regulated militia, would be a genuine source of legislative honour, and a perfect title to public gratitude.

I therefore entertain a hope that the present session will not pass without carrying to its full energy the power of organizing, arming, and disciplining the militia; and thus providing, in the language of the constitution, for calling them forth to execute the laws of the union, suppress insurrections, and repel invasions." After mentioning the intelligence from the army under the command of General Wayne, and the state of Indian affairs, he again called the attention of the house of representatives to a subject scarcely less interesting than a system of defence against external and internal violence.
"The time," he said, "which has elapsed since the commencement of our fiscal measures, has developed our pecuniary resources, so as to open the way for a definitive plan for the redemption of the public debt.
It is believed that the result is such as to encourage congress to consummate this work without delay.

Nothing can more promote the permanent welfare of the union, and nothing would be more grateful to our constituents.