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[VIII]

interrupt the harmony or endanger the cordial union of our confederated republics.

These views I confidently believe to be in accordance with the sentiments of a large majority of the people of this State, and a previous Legislature, with great unanimity, gave them their sanction by the unequivocal expression of their opinion.

It is gratifying also to know, that the subject has lately received from the Executive of the United States, that consideration which its importance demands, and from which we are authorized to conclude, that a speedy check will be put to the further extension of this questionable policy, either by the power of Congress, or by the exercise of the high responsibility confided by the constitution in a co-ordinate department of the federal government.

The correct and prudent management of our public lands is an object of the first importance, and from the circumstances connected with them, is attended with difficulties and embarrassments.

A large portion of the most valuable lands have been sold in townships to individuals, and in many cases at a comparatively low price. It is probable that their value would have been increased by delaying the sale for a few years, provided the timber could have been preserved from depredations.

But the proceeds of the sales of these lands are of small consequence in comparison to the benefits which the State would derive from their actual settlement.

All our measures in relation to them should therefore be principally directed to the promotion of this object, and if by giving them away to actual settlers, the wilderness could in a few years be converted into flourishing villages, inhabited by an industrious and virtuous population, the interest and prosperity of the State would thereby be more effectually promoted, than by any sales, however advantageous in other respects, without attaining this more desirable