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[47] [Governors message] you should adopt such measures in relation to it, as are best calculated to bring this claim to a speedy and equitable decision. Having adverted to the defence of this part of the country during the late war, it would be a neglect of duty on my part not to remind you, that, as there is no State in this Union, whose inland frontier is more exposed, so there is none, which has so extensive and so exposed a maritime frontier, as Maine. Yet, while military roads are making to aid the defence of some portions of our country, and bays, rivers and towns, are fortifying for the defence of others, most of the garrisons and other works within this State erected at considerable expense by the National Government, are now without a single soldier to guard them, and for want of necessary attention, rapidly falling into decay. It only requires that our situation should be properly represented and understood that the procedure should be corrected and the desired effect produced. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has stipulated to pay to the State of Maine, thirty thousand dollars for performing certain duties and obligations to the Indians within this State, provided the assent of the Indians and a release of that Commonwealth from all her engagements to them are first obtained. In recommending this subject to your consideration, I indulge the hope that such measures will be adopted, as, while they are least expensive to the State, shall be best calculated to protect the rights and secure to this, the last remnant of the natives, residing among us, all that comfort, which they are capable of enjoying. The amount for travel and attendance of the members of the late convention, and for incidental expenses,