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260

I lay before you a statement of all the warrants drawn by me, with the advice of Council, for the payment of money at the Treasury the past year; exhibiting particularly in whose favor each was drawn, and the law by which it was authorized. From this statement you will readily ascertain the whole expenditures of the Government and by a recurrence to the several items will be enabled to decide if there can be any retrenchment. Six thousand eight hundred of the principal of the public debt has been discharged within the last year, and the residue, which was bearing an interest at six per cent, has, under the resolve of February last, been liquidated by a loan at five. The report of the Treasurer will exhibit the financial situation of the State. Although its appearance is as favorable as could be reasonably expected, considering the expenditures that were required in framing the Constitution and organizing the government, yet the necessity of economy and of accountability in all who have connexion with the public monies, will undoubtedly ensure a suitable degree of watchfulness on the part of the Legislature. Our constituents are willing to defray the expenses necessary for the proper support of government, but not a dollar for extravagance. 
Whatever assistance may be in my power to expedite the public business and render the session useful to the State, will be readily afforded; and I trust, we shall all co-operate to adopt such measures as will best contribute to that object, and promote the harmony and the happiness of the whole community. 
May this State long continue to enjoy the smiles of a kind and bountiful Providence, and long may the foundation of its Government be the will