.MTUzMw.MTU5MjY

274

this adjustment, of deep interest to us, both as regards property and jurisdiction, has been protracted far beyond our expectations, yet it will be satisfactory to the people of this State to learn that the delay is attributable to circumstances in no wise controlable by our own government.

In consequence of the disagreement of the Commissioners appointed under the fifth article of the Treaty of Ghent, a proposition has been made by the Government of the United States, and accepted by the British Government, to endeavour to establish this boundary by amicable negociation, rather than by submission to the decision of a foreign power, as provided by the Treaty. This arrangement is believed to be satisfactory to Maine, and we have reason to feel a confidence that the negociation will be so conducted as to secure to this State its just rights.

I lay before you the annual return of the Militia of this State, by which it appears that our effective force consists of upwards of thirty five thousand Infantry and three thousand Cavalry and Artillery, generally well armed and properly organized. Congress possess the power to provide for organizing, arming and disciplining the Militia; and, as the subject in all its branches, has been specially recommended by the President to the attention of the National Legislature, at its present session, we have reason to expect that it will now receive the consideration which its importance demands. From information communicated by the commanding officers of Artillery, in different parts of the State, it appears that many of the buildings erected for the preservation of the ordnance attached to their respective companies, are in such a state of decay