Governor's Irless:c"e. To tlic,S;nnle amJ House nfncnresentativcs of.thc Cornmonf -.Wealth of luinsvhaiiiii. ; f- yFLLow-CiTizENs : The Legislative branch of;-the Xjovernment, meets under-circumstances calculated to produce deeuenmtinnvnf o-r.-ttitiwlfv The events ofthe past year cannot fail to afford assurances ol the continued mercy of the Al- -SS of destitution and the tears of crushed nnriod famine and civil commotion" in the old .world, bringing in their train, desolation and 'ita'trir blighting tho-hoppsV paializingthe industry, and ruining the' prosperity of the people; our belov ed Commonwealth, in union with other? under t)ie,Natiopal Constitution, has .enjoyed the de lighlsof pence, and her citizens, in the exercise oJ' industrial pursuit, have found contentment and competence. To the Author and Guardian of our being, whose beiiificence caused all things to work together tor our good, our reverence ahtl yrati'ude are especially due. 'The recent ?fferts for the establishment of lib eral political.institutions in Europe, have exci ted in the people of this country, the warmest sympathies. The conflict between the oppress or and oppressed, whatever may be the inci dents ot remits, having for its object a govern ment capable of protecting and extending politi cal and social liberty, must be regarded by the people of the United 5U:tes With the deepest so-: licitude. In the enjoyment of institutions which recognize iht inherent rights -of man, and are founded, on the acknowledged principle that all, political power is a trust to.be exercised for the benefit ofthe citizens, they cannot witness the. struggle between despotism and freedom, with out ardent hopes and s jicere prayers for the tri umph of liber'il and en arged justice. ft'is im possible to behold a people long the subjects of tyranny and oppression enlightened by our ex ample, -and solicitous fur equhl enjoyments ri- smg up beneath the burthens which centuries have heaped upon thfetn casting aside the rev erence tor power, aud the priueof regal splendor; looking forward to the establishment of human rights- to the elevution ofthe moral and social condition of society ; and placing their lives and fortunes on the hazard of a struggle'fbr these ob jects; without, on our part, an earnest, pnd anx ious desire that they may-succeed. That struggle-has been unsuccessful. The arbitrary Gov ojnments, in whose midst the noble band of pal note erected their standard, have succeeded with their immense force in maintaining .tyrannical uuthority. and the brave men u ho fought for Jreedom, have either perished under the barba rous exactions'oftlespotic will, or they wander in fore gii lands, exiles from home that no longer afford security. It is not the polcy of our Na tional Government to mingle in the controver sies of foreign nations, nor is it desirable that it should, by acts of hostility or friendship, brek up the commercial relations which exist for mu tual advantage ; but it is, nevertheless, no viola tion of international law to enter our solemn pro test and warning, agimstacts' "of cruelty and barbarism upon heroic men and defenceless women. It is no wrong for our Government to unite with others, in the expression of indigna tion against the violation of the national faith and national Jaw, involved in the demand, for sanguinary purposes, of the brave defenders of human rights. The consideration of the Legislature is res pectfully invited to the financial condition ofthe Commonwealth. The present funded debt is as follows: u per cent, mans, ti per cent. do. i! i-r cent do. S2.04I.022 51 30.336,716 90 i!00,000 00 -83977,733 43 Unfunded dcbt-towjtr Jlelief notes in circulation 'without int.) S353.154 00 lr.x cer'cates outstanding, 179,422 91. : uuclaimed 4,41cS 33 on certificates to bs added when the samft shall be funded or paid. 11234 34 . Uomcstic creditors (on settlement.) c5104 to $333434 51 .Imount of canal, railroad, and motive power debts, contracted prior ti Dec 1. 1B4S, and unpaid by the appropiia tions ofthe last session. C323D 53 Total indebtedness of Commonwealih, Det'49 $.10574413 45 The funded debt on thel&t'Dec; 1S13, was Unfunded debt. $30393350 21 10S13c5 69 Amount of canal, railroed nnd motive power debt, contracted prior to Dec 1, 184B. " 357642' 33 S10B42373 31 Amount of public debt paid during the year 1849,eiclusive,of the sum paid, Commissioners ofthe sinking fund, -S2572C5 86 Amount paid during th- year 1849 to the Commissioners ofthe sinking fund. 227513 53 Amount appropriated during the year IB49 toward payment if public debt S495.479 39 Tn exhibiting the operations of the Treasury for the last ih-cal year, the sum of 120,000, borrowed on special loan for the avoidanr e ofthe Schuylkill inclined Plane, and inclu ded in the aggregate of the public debt in December, 1549, should be added to the above stated sum of $195,479 39. The amount of receipts al the Treasury dur- ;ng the year ending December J, 1849, is $4,433,6SS 65 The ainount of expenditures during the .same period, is 4,031,771 80 Balance in the Treasury on Dec. J. 1848, 577,290 39 " " " " " " 1849, 926,207 24 Amount paid to Commissioners ofthe sinking fund to Jan. 1, 1850, $227,513,53, with w hich was purchased ofthe funded debt, and trans ferred to the Commonwealth, 253,500 09 Difference between the indebtedness of the SUte on the lstDec.,161S, and Dec. 1,1849, 207,965 86 Total. amount of public debt paid during the year, 521,465 66 Estimates of receipts at the Ticasury during the year 1850: From Lands, $20,000 00 Auction Commissions,. 22,000 00 Duues; 50,000 00 Tax on Bank Dividends, ' 130,000 00 " ' Corporation Stocks. : 160,000 00 Pool ?trf Poxnniit rtnj. " T nil flflO fin " Tavern Licenses, 80,000 00 u Retailert' Licenses. 160,000 00 lHI?rc TinAticoc J ff Art Brolcert Licenses, 12,000 00 4 Theatre, Circus and Menageries' Li censes, 3,000 00 V BiliiardJRooms, Bowling Saloons and Ten-pin Alley Licenses, 5,000 0C0 " Distilleiy and Brew ery Licenses, 1 ,500 000 " Eatincr Mousep. ller Hmises und Res M I taurant Licenses, 15,000 00 Patent Medicine Licenses, : . 3,000 " Pamphlet Laws, . 500 Militia'Fjnes, : - 2,000 Tax on Writs. Wills, Deeds, &c. ' ". -, 40,000 Certain Offices, " 20,000 " "Collateral-Inheritance, - 200.000 - Canal and Railroad To Is. 1 ,625,000 Cannl Fines and Sale of old Materials, .5,000 Knrollment of Laws, 11,000 Premiums on Charters, ' 40;000' Tax on Loans, . 125,000 Inclined Plane Loan . 70,000 Dividends on Turnp&c and;ErifgeiStock, 2,000 . Kicholson Lands, . ,. ,v 300 Accrtiedlutcrest, " 5,000 -Kefmided Cash, . - - - v . 5.000 Escheats, 4, j 2,000 Fees of Public Offices, k - v " 2,000' Miscellaneous, ' 5,000. Interest on Stock purchased, 15,000 4,565,309 00 Estimated navmcnts durinc the year 1850 : Tp Public Improvements $.640,000 00 JExpenses of Gov'rnment Militia Expenses, Pensions and Gratuities, Charitatye inKtitwtiousi Common Schools, Interest on Loans, Cuarantcfs of Intciest, Dpmedtic Creditors, s"2inue8.on Public W'jrks FrHJCiafCcmniJitioncrS State 'Library, Public Building? nnd Grounds leu 'cn'uaio 235.000 00 4,000.00 , 20,000 00" 200,000 00 ' 2,005,00 00 -v f 32.500 ;00 J 0,000 00 " 2,000 00 2,000 00 2,000 15,000 migliyauUierrfoLU)eJJniverse,.dnd.of-Ahe bless-J. Vli r"re?n,n? 'WB.? -1?8. l,rSa.,r',?1 tl,e ;o Wn Ikio ,!;ennn;.n.i f ,i i . rend ofthe fiscal year I8o0, v6ulil appear-to justify' tho ap ings He IMS dispensed t llC people of this Com- j propriation of $10000 toward Hie completion of Hie Western monwealtll. White in Other parts of our COUn- ' reservoir at Johnstown, as liereinalter recommended. It ,f.nn;i ;,. .;:,-,,, i , i would also authorize tliu appropriation nf a sum not less try, and til UtsJant land, -pestilence has made j than $300,000 in addition to the amount already nppropna fearful ravages; leaving in its track the wrWch- I ted, to ha expended in the completion of the North Uranch ednt leeuons; a ueaimtUI Climate,in the disposal ot of the relief notes then in circulation, and a , rigteottsi Providence, lias preserved the citi- l-. 1 Iie amount 01 enoj the. Sate Com'paraJliveJy free from the the amount paid into the Treasury and Bup, tmsotiesrif thisdcbtrover. Burintra period ofwar, phed'hy k jrewlisdels i IIg.ooo MMcnoison Lands. Bti KscheStsTV W V 40'000 2,000, ?K ; S.000 Counsel Fees;and Commissions, .Miscellaneous, " Inclined PlarWS.rh'vk'h 270,000 North Uranr.h Crinnl. ?M50.COO - Commissioner's of the Sink'g Fund 293.000 -- ! $4,03i.S00 00 sm 1,500 00 af - ! ca( The Legislature at its last session authorized the re-issuc suspended their the whole issue 053161 00 . 443,537 00 Ballance, 209,627 00 The abore ballance has been destroyed, or has failed to reach the Treasury during the year." These notes, the re demption of which being amply secured, and aflbrding a safe and convenient local currency, have the confidence and fa vor ol the citizens, It is therefore, recommended that au thority be given to the proper officers, to keep them in good condition, "by a new issue, irr-lieu of such as may become mutilated and defaced. In addition to the suggestions made by the last Legisla ture on the subject of the moneyed affairs i ofthe State, it is defined proper to call your attention to .the fact, that a por tion of the funded debt is overdue : a part bcarine an inter est of six percent.; and a part falling due the year 1650, as follows The auiouut of five per cent, funded debt overdue, except bank charter loans, is 354519 10 The amount of six per cent funded debt overdue, is e, 1,752,335 06 The amount of five per cent. funded debt falling due on or before Dec. 1,1850, The amount of unfunded debt now duo, 9P9,211 15 85,104 88 Amount demandable at the treasu ry during the year, 3,191,170 19 Provision should be made at an early day for arrangements with the creditors holding these claims. T.o permit them to remain in their presort condition, would not only evince nn indisposition to pay our just debts , but would also Operate injurious! at a price House oJ Boiuge, msiyio me noiuers 01 tne stocK, ny comieiiin sales i c. ,i ,.M,i n u-isliiuinrl nn ennh liirlrJr.nrlc ice hdow their par value. The annual demands up- fits ma(,L anU a ,Jax lVieUpn SUCll dividends Treasury, with the nrescut means of Hie State, will I nr nrofits. as well as on the canital stock emnlov- on the nut in-null, me payineiu 01 mese loans ; aim me oniy pracu- cable mode which suggests itself seems to be the ncgotia-1 .1-. - . . ; .. tion of new loans, Mipulatiwrnn extension of the time ol payment. It is believed that ducli loans could be negotiated at a rate of interest not exceeding five percent. Should au thority be given in the arrangements suggetted, to stipulate iuai me aiu siock snouiu oe exempt trom taxation, tlic in ducements to investments therein would create such compe tition as would be highly advantageous to the Treasury. Justice and honesty require that these debts should be prompt ly paid, or arranged to the satisfaction of the parties inter ested, and any provision which the Legislat ire may deem proper on the subject, will meet the cordial approbation of the Executive. The establishment of a sinking fund, by the appreciation of State stocks, nnd Hie consequent increase of confidence in the ability of the State to meet her engagements; with the replacement by a new issue ofthe old "and defaced relief notes, has had the salutao' effect of enabling the Treasury Department with slight expense in the exchange or trans mission of means, to meet the payment of inteibst on the public debt in par money, ns alsotopav other editors of the State in good funds. Tlic payment of the public liabili ties in the manner aforesaid, and the adoption of a system to extinguish eventually the public debt, must bring to" their par value, the stocks of the Cdmmonwealth. It is cstimn that SIHOlOOOOof the public stock are held in this coun try, and the addition in their value, by these simple opera tions demanded alike by sound policy and honest', will in crease their marketable worth in tlic hands of the citizens $1350000. To the efficiency of the State Trfasurer, the Au ditor General, and other officers charged with the collection and disbursement o the public moneys during the past, year, is justly attributable in a highdegree'these favorable results. The beneficial results of the sinking fund can not be doubted. The payments from various sources to the Commissioners, during the past i year, have been as follows: From collateral jnheritance tux, 8180,212 41 " premiums on charters, ' Eating and oyster houses and restaurants, " Billiard and bowling saloons and ten-pin alleys,' , " Theatre.circus and menagerie licenses, " DiEtillery and brewery licenses, 35,969 40 ' 1 t 5,SS7 20 j 2,985 50 i 2,210 00 384 Ainount received for the year end ing December 1, 1S49 227,629 01 The estimated payments for the same purpose ; for the year ending Dec. 1,1850, are as follows. 1 From collateral inheritance tax, 200, 000 00 Interest ou stocks purchased, 15,000 Oo 40,000 00 " Premiums on charters, ' Theatre, circus and menage- ' rie licenses, 41 Distillery and brewery 1 icenses Billiard and bowling saloons and ten-pin alleys, " Eating and oyster houses and restaurants, "Balance in Treasury after de ducting appropriations herc ' ii ihbefore recommended, t 000 00 .15,000 00 91,500 00 371,000 00 The opinion is confidently expressed that the estimated receipts above stated will be found to approximate the truth, Ehould an udherence to the policy pursued by the last Legislature, in re lation to premiums on charters, and other finan cial measures "be authorized and continued. Should such be the case, the above sum, at the present rates, would extinguish upwards of four hundred thousand dollars of the funded debt, du ring the present fiscal year. The sources from which the sinking fund is supplied must necessa rily increase. The tax on collateral inheritance, and on theatre, circus and menagerie licenses, prior to the act creating a sinking fund, yielding to the Treasury about the sum of 845,000 annu ally. By the provisions of that act, these have been increased to the sums above slated,and the other sources of revenue have been created by recommendations heretofore made to the Legis lature. With these means for the supply of the sink ing lund, together with such additions as the probable resources of the Treasury, from time to time may justify, it is susceptible of easy calcu lation, to determine how nearly approaches the period when the State taxes may be repealed, and the burthens of the people removed. So manifestly important are these results upon the industrial pursuits of the citizens, and the inter ests and honor of the State, it is suggested for consideration whether good policy would not re quire the trensfer of all ballances in the treasu ry at the end of each year to the Commissioners of said Fund. Every consideration that can impose itself on a government demands the payment-of the pub lic debt. The local advantages of our Common wealth ; the salubrity of our climate, the vast ness cf our mineral deposites, the fertility of our soil ; and the prosperity and happiness of the people, alike require the repeal of a system of Jaws, which compel emigration, prevent the settlement of uncultivated lands, drive capital from our borders, and paralyze the industry of eery class of our citizens! Should these bal lances remain in the Treasury unappropriated to the said Fund, the history of the past will re mind us that prodigal expenditures will be made to objects of diminished importance. The subject of the revision and equalization ofthe laws for raising revenue, is again earnest ly pressed upon the attention of the Legislature. Great injustice arises under existing enactments, from the want of adequat means to prevent or to punish individuals making false returns of property subject to taxation, The conscientious citizen, scrupulously exact in the, performance of hie obligations to society, may well complain of laws which suffer the di honest to elude with impunity the payment of an equitable share of tfje pnblitbnrthens. ' The tax on bonds, mort gages, and; moneys at interest, issassessed so unequally'i.iliat great reason for complaint.' exists throughout the State To remedyto some--extent this evil, it vyquld be well to require the. prothonataries of the several counties, to collect from the plaintiffs in judgement the tax thereon assessed, and if necesf-.ary, to compel payment by legal process; allowing to the officer entrusted with this duty treasonable "compensation, to be paid, where the payment of the tax is made vol untarily, t.ut of the fund, and by the plaintiff when the payment has been compelled by legal process. A similar provission wTth' regard to mortgages, giving the reconfers the authority before stated in relation to judgements, would embrace those two items of taxation, and woutd doubtless compel the payment of a large amount of revenue, now fraudulently withheld. The laws subjecting to a tax the commissions issued to officers of this Commonwealth, should be extended to embrace commissions to non-residents. The justice of taxing the citizens of the State, and of permitting non-residents, who. .hold commissions under .the government, to enjoy the emoluments free from taxation, cannot readily be perceived. No effectual mode has been devised to compel the agents of loreiffn insurance companies to 1 make a semi-annual exhibit of the amount of. iuiuis employed by the respective companies within this commonwealth.. A law havinc, an effect ot this character, is highly necessary and would be productive of decided advantage In the enactment of such a law. it would be we!: to make the certificate issued to, agents, of said companies, subject to taxation. Incorporated companies of various kinds, de'ri ving their charters elsewhere, have agencies-in the State and transact business therein, and yet no accurate account is taken of the money em ployed, or of the value or profits of their invest ments. Were the proper departments required to make a list of these Incorporations, and author ity given to ascertain the ainount of the invest nipnt?. the rate of dividends declared, or the oro i n lnro-p revenue to the Commonwealth would paa, lar3G ' cs LnuL LO l,,t v-oiinnonwtnuij wouia i i ' . . . ue tne resun. While money borrowed by citizens, boroughs,- and incorporated districts, is subject by existing laws, to taxation, it is not perceived why money borrowed by incorporated companies should be exempt from srmilar assessment. To make an equitable distribution of the public burJhens, should be the special object of the Legislature; and care should be taken that no exemption should be allowed to any clasof citizens over an other where the property employed is the same. Attention to the foregoing objects ot taxation, will not only increase the revenue, but is de manded al?ke by justice and sound policy. Next in importance to the public debt, and the equalisation ofthe taxes, is tin management of the public improvements, the vast, expendi tures annually made for the repair and supervis ion of these works, and the amount of reve nue derived therefrom; so materially affecting the condition of the treasury; render them ob iects of peculiar interests. It is belie; ed that an increased amount of net revenue should be derived from these works. The enormous ap propriations of the last year, for their mainten an.,e in repairs, and towards the payment of j debts theretofore contracted, should have plac ed them in a sound condition, and would author ize the conclusion that a small expenditure du ring the s?ason would be sufficient. In the ab sence ofthe annual report of Canal Commission ers, no specific amount for these objects can be given by the Executive. The system for the management of these im provements, invites unnecessary expenditures, nrwl romnync rrvsnnncthilittr Trnm tln nrnnor fJo, parlment. Wpre the number of Canal Commis- sionere increased to five; the State divided in .1- r.. 1 : c 1 to uisiricis lur liiu eiuciiou unu Fiiuurvisiuu ui eac Commissioner, the direct and immediate charge and control ofthe district imposed up- 0,1 one i these omcers, requiring ot him the performance ofthe duties now executed by su perintendents and supervisors, and stipulating for the annual alteration of the said Commiss- 3 000 00 iI,ers niucn practicie intorniation ot interest 1,500 00 j 10 State would be acquired ; a direct res ' I ponsibilitv for the well ordered condition of- tne Public Works, and the economy ol expen- ses wouio oe secui ca ; ana tne tare uisc.re- tionary powers now vested in superintendents and supervisors, in the adoption of plans and payment of money in repaits, would be placed in officers directly accountable to the people. In relation to this subject, legislation should be clear and specific, as discretionary power over the money of the citizen must be depreca ted by right thinking men. The method adopted in the management of the Public W01 ks is evidently defective. Re pairs on the canals and railroads are iriade in a way to prevent all competition. Where the several 4fcrices performed by contract, and awarded to the lowest bidder, giving the required security, can there exist a doubt of favorable results to the public interests. The State does not derive an adequate share of the profits arising from the use of the Co-, lumbia Railroad, Tne construction of the road ; its maintenance and supervision, and the supply of the Motive Power, involving great expense and risk, demand from the pro fits ofthe read a larger return than finds its way to the 1 reasury. An evil so detrimental of the public interests calls for a speedy remedy It is suggested that the Canal Commission ers should be required to invite proposals for furnishing the Motive Power on the said road, stipulating in detail the services to be perform ed ; and the nature of the security to be giv en. The object being to procure competition in the supply of the Motive Power, encourage ment should be given to individuals, willing to undertake the duty of running one or more lo comot ives on the road, whether belonging to the State or the individual bidder. Should the locomotives belonging to the State, be fur nished to the bidders, the contract should stip latcthe terms on' which they should be used. The transportation of passengers should be done by contract to the lowest bidder. In the agreement, it would be necessary that the CanaJ Commissioners should fix-the kind of cars, and such other details as would secure the accommodalton of the passengers, and faithfully guard the public interest. Jn the transmission of burden cars, an ar rangement might well be made with their ow ners, by which the State would receive in stead of the present tolls, a portion of the freight charges. The consequences would be advantageous to both parties. These changes in the presentsystem, would it is believed, largely diminish the expenses of the Motive Power : would authorize a re duction in the rate of tolls : nroduce an in crease of business upon the road ; furnish with profitable labor many citizens now refus ed employment, by reason of the monopoly held by the State over the Mptive power on the road : prevent the expenditure necessary for the purchase of new locomotives; save to the State the immense sacrifices in the old en gines 'accommodate the travelling public by a lower rate of fare ; antl would advance the. public interest by lessening the annual outlays i ana increasing the income from the road more than $2Q0,0GQ, j Discriminations in the tolls on the: Public W.rk.sagainsupprtXons.ofnrxitizcns,"-.by means of a system of drawbacks arid maxi--mu'm rates of toils, nve unjust aud improper. Their labor and property,, in common with others,' were encumbered in the construction of the improvments 5 their industry and wealth have for years assisted, and continued to assist, to sustain them ; and it is difficult to perceive upon wht principle of public policy, a Tariff of Tolls , is maintained, discriminating agaiiibt their interests;. The demands of trade cannot excuse a palpable wrong of this char acter while a reduction of tolls on .the whole line of improvements, would produce an in crease of business, and secure the desired for eign trade., fc i The practice of contracting debts for re pairs, and for the purchase of materials be yon'd appropriations for these purposes, should be prohibited by severe penalties. Nothing can.be more destructive of all accountability, or - offer stronger inducements to extrava gance, than such a power over the public mo ney. An officer guilty of an act of this kind, violates the trust committed to him, and ' should be forthwith dismissed from the public service. Debts already contracted in this way, should be paid ; for the labor in behalf ofthe State has boen performed,, and it would inflict an injury on those who could not have a knowledge of the wrong, to withhold from them the value of their services ; but immedi ate measures should, be adopted; to prevent such occurrences in future A practice of this kind, authorized in some, measure by subsequent appropriations by the Legisla ture, for the payment of the debts thus con tracted, cannot fail to mislead fhe people, and embarrass the public officers in their estimates and recommendations. The large appropria tions for the payment of old debts, made at the last session of the Legislature, show the extent to which the practice has been carried, and should admonish us to guard against a re currence ot the evil. In providing by legal enactment against the mischief here stated, authority, might be given to the Canal Com missioners, should it be deemed necessary, to meet deficieiinces in the funds provided for any line of improvements ; to draw from a spe cific appropriation for that purpose, requiring from them 'a detailed and special report on the subject, to the auditing department, as well as to the succeeding Legislature. . The avoidance of the Schuylkill inclined Plane, and the improvments connecting with the Culumbia and Philadelphia ..Railrroad which are in rapid progress of construction, must materially increase the business on that public thoroughfare, and will render the re laying of a portion of said road, a work of abso lute necessity. In the performance of this work, should the Legislature authorize it, good policy would seem to require, so far as the mentis of the Treasury will permit, that one track at least should be laid with a heavy rail; and it is worthy of consideration whether the public interests would not be greatly subserved, by a location of the new track, so as to avoid the many short curvatures on the eastern end of said road. They increase the danger to pas sengers and freight ; forbid a dispatch safely performed on a straight line and require greater force than would be necessary on a di rect track with higher grades. In the event of the Legislature authorizing the relaying of the eastern section of the said road, and the change of location before mentioned, a due regard to the public interests and the limi ted tesources of the treasury would seem to demand" that the improvement should com mence at an early day, and progress from year to year, as the revenues would war rant, until it should be completed.. The Portage Railroad, from the completion of our line of improvements to the present lime, has been a serious ..obstacle to the business of the community, and the occasion ol trade seeking other channels to the Atlantic markets. Any mode therefore, of lessening this evil, must meet the hearty concurrence of The citizens. The sum of five hundred thousand dollars judiciously ex pended, will avoid all the short levels, and lour of the five Inclined Planes, on the western slope ofthe Allegheny. The annual expense of main taining these Planes is not less than ten thousand dollars for each Plane, and if to that amount be added the cost of the short levels, and the per ishable nature of the materials connected with these works, with the delays and risks incident thereto, the annual amount for their maintenance, cannot be less than one hundred thousand dollars. Were these Planes avoided, and those on the east ern slope ofthe mountain repaired, the commerce on the Public York3 would be facilitated and in creased, and the Pennsylvania Central Railroad Company, would find it their interest for many years to use it in connection with their great im provement. During the last season, the scarcity of water on the upper portion of the Western Division of the Pennsylvania Canal, materially injured the char acter of the Public Works, and diminished the revenue from that source not less than $50,000. Po guard against a recurrence of this evil, it is recommended that the Western Reservoir, in the construction of which, the sum. of sixty thousand dollars has been expended, be completed. The estimated amount required for its completion is i n. rtt - i tt i r . l 17. n?'iu,uuu, anu wouiu, m tne opinion oi tne j-j.ecu-tive, be a judicious appropriation. It has been suggested that an alteiation in the canal locks, by making them conform to the shape ofthe bottom of the boats, would not only strength en them, but would be a saving of water. This might be effected, if deemed of sufficient impor tance, by the insertion of wooden hottoms, in such manner as to produce the results indicated. By the reports ofthe Auditor General and State Treasurer, made under the directions ofthe act of the 10th of Aptil, 1S49. it appeared that after the payment ofthe interest on the public debt, and the liquidation and payment of other claims for which appropriations had been made by the Legislature, and retaining a reasonable balance in the Treasu ry, the sum of $150,000 might, with safety, bo ap plied to the completion ofthe North Branch Canal. 1 accordingly gave immediate notice ofthe fact to the Canal Commissioners, and portions ofthe work it is understood, have been placed under contract. Considered as a part of the Public Improvements, and re-commenced as a revenue measure, that work should be finished at the eailiest day the condition of the Treasury will permit. It should riot be forgotten, that the present unfinished con dition of the work, by inteirupling the fiee navi gation of the river ; by the destruction of roads and injury to private property, without affording nny convenience to the community, inflicts a wrong which demands immediate reparation. In addition to the sum already appropriated, it is confidently believed that $300,000 can, with propriety, be giv en to that Improvement in the present season; and in the following year, provision might be made for its completion. While it has been deemed advisable to bring these subjects to the notice ofthe Legislature, cop-, siderations of sound policy, the interests of the citizens already heavily burdened with taxation and the general welfare of the commonwealth, for bid an increase of the public debt. The equalization and revision of the revenue laws ; the proposed change in the management of the Public Works, and their early improvement and completion ; with a rigid maintenance of the sinkiiif, fmid, and the consequent reduction of the public debt, would, with the present resources of the treasury, produce-in a few years a condition of financial prosperity .justifying the conviction ofthe speedy' relief of out citizens from the payment of all taxes for the support of goverment, schools, and charities. The Eastern and Western Penitentiaries have been conducted with skill and prudence, and in the reformation, and security of offenders, society has derived important advantages. It is, however. wortny ot serious consideration whether m the adoption of a system of solitary confinement, the severity ofthe punishment authorized by law, does not injuriously affect the mental and physical vigor of the prisoner. , Tytf The frequent recommendations to the Execii-1 V : tive, for the pardon of" convicts afflictediwitheilbiaiggg health and mental imbecility,, would jjpgear to;re-K3" quire a modification ofthe present laws. It is earnestly recommended that a small Inisaaf crease of the annual appropriations qe made.to thefl,. House ol iteiuge, and the Asylums. ot tne ueati.. Dumb and Blind. These instittftfrns, long tho deserved objects of State bounty, have been Jn- creasing in usefulness, and incurring additional yearly expenses, while the annual sums bestowed have remained the same. In the growth of ponu-. lation the demands on these Asylums must be aug-tjMF mo n tori . I. .. 1 mwitwu, mm ineir eApeuuiLuiea ucucasinnj en larged, and the same degree liberality-awarded on former occasions, would 'claim the appropria tion of larger amounts. In the prosecution ofthe work for the State Lu natic Asylum, the appropriation of a former vear has been exhausted, and a sum of jike amount is required for its completion;. Under the supervi sion of excellent and attentive trustees, the build ing has rapidly advanced, and is now under roofc-t The structure is plain, substantial and beautiful: eligibly situated in regard, to the comforts of the patients, and susceptible of a finish, honorable to the State, and useful to the community. The prob ability of its abandonment by the Legislature, or of a refusal to grant the additional sum required for its completion, cannot be entertained by the Executive. Too long already has public charity been withheld from the Insane Poor of the State too long have they been suffered'to wander desti tute and deserted the jest ofthe thoughtless, and the victims ofthe profligate ; while humanity and ' christian benevolence claimed for them public- protection. It is not, however, protection alone ; 3 that is contemplated in this Asylum. The reports- 0 ;1 from different similar institutions afford the grati- ;. & lying intelligence mat eigniy, anu in some instan ces, ninety per cent, of the number afflicted, are radically cured. In this view ofthe subject, com bining shelter and protection, with restoration .to health and reason, the inducements to energetic action on our part, cannot be overlooked. It is. estimated that an additional sum of $50,000 will finish the building, and fit it for the reception of, patients, and the same is respectfully and earnest ly lecommended. Notwithstanding the revision, by the last Legis lature, ofthe laws, in relation to common schools, s the system will require modification. It does not receive from the citizens the favor, that a sound and enlightened scheme of education deserves, and the evil must exist in the laws which control its piactical operations. A serious defect, is the' want of properly qualified teachers. It is worthy your consideration whether the establishment of Normal schools in the different counties, would not remove this evil. Education may well be termed the great measure of the age: In a Re publican government, it is the safeguard of liberty, . and enlightened statesmen regarding it in this as pect, will cordially co-operate to establish, to de fend, to cherish, and to maintain it. The Super intendent having bestowed much thought on the subject, will, at an early day, submit a report, to which your attention is invited. The militia law of the last session is imperfect r ; in many of its details, and inquires revision. . In the abolition ofthe mockery of parades incident to the old system, and the establishment of an effec tual uniformed militia, well dtaciplined and drilled, j it has been productive of general utility. Slight modifications in its provisions will make it all that can be desired. The report ofthe Adjutant Gen eral is well worthy your consideration, and ii ac cordingly submitted. Reports from the Surveyor General and Auditor General, exhibiting the condition of their respec tive departments, are herewith transmitted to the Legislature, and the latter will furnish in detail.) much valuable information, in relation to the finan-. cial condition of the Commonwealth. The duty of districting the State fot the election of Representatives, will devolve upon you. Re- : turns of taxables, required to be made by the dif ferent counties, have not been transmitted, as by law they were directed ; but the officers charged with the duties under the law, are engaged in their preparation, and they will be laid, at an early day before the Legislature. By resolutions passed, at the last session, the Executive was required to transmit to certain of ficers, citizens or natives ofthe State, resolutions expressive ofthe approbation ofthe Legislature, for their distinguished services in the late war witlv' Mexico. In performing this duty, these resolu- tions were transmitted to such of these officers, as, by the report ofthe Adjutant General of the United States, had been breveted for good conduct. The resolutions for the amendment ofthe Con stitution, having been duly published according to the terms of that instrument, it will be the duty ofthe Legislature to take such action on the-subject, as may be most consistent with the wishes ofthe people. It is proper to state, that the apr"; propriation made to del ray the expenses ol the publication of these resolutions, was wholly insuf ficient for the purpose, and an additional sum will be required. In the message delivered at the opening of the late session, reference was made to tho citizen soldier, who had returned to his home after having earned for himself arid the State, in the war with Mexico, a reputation fot undaunted bravery, pa tient suffering-and heroic virtue; and the opinion. was expiessed, that it -was due to these patriotic citizens, that the Commonwealth should make a suitable acknowledgment for their illustrious ser-"1 vices. No action having been takfen Upon the sug- 1 gestion, I would again call the subject to the at- r:.j. i ; i . tennon oi tne jjegiaiitiuru. ii is mso proper to le fer to tho recommendation therein made, in rela tion to the death of ceitain ,officersfof the govern ment, and tho omission in the constitution to sup- nlv thft var.nnnv. Thfi stil-went ?s irtppmnd nf nfrT. r ' j - - j . ... , cient importance to justify an earnest hope that le islative action may not be withheld thereon. The practice of postponing thq passage of ap- T propriation bills to the last day of the season for bids deliberation as well to the Legislature as to the Executive, and Should hereafter be avoided A These bills, requiring care and attention to the A, specific items. and dispqaipg of largo mounts of the public money, should be deliberately examined be fore they obtain the sanction of laws. Nothing can j j niii. excuse nasiy unu uuuuviaeu legislation, on a suujeci so important to the publicintereats; Itis confident ly anticipated that this Legislature will adopt a rule of practice more consistent with prudence, economy, nnd sound policy. The intimate connection existing between the industry of the citizens, and the currency of his countiy demands for that question the serious-rat-tention of tho statesman and lawgiver. In author izing Banking or other Institutions, to create a currency other than gold and silver, it would be unfaithful to our trusts to permit them, for want of proper checks and gaurds to allow it lo-become less valuable than the coin it is intended to represent. The views expressed in the last message in favor of the restriction of ihe number of these institu tions, to the real business -wants of the paople, and rofueing a renewal of-Btak chartersuatila thn- trjei -jar? 1 FT . " r Y 4. o rO : A ox T & if OS 3g H is'
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