.MTc4Mw.MjE0MzM

352 essentially changed, that it may be doubtful at last whether he will give a decision on this delicate and important subject which was referred to him under circumstances so essentially different from those which at present exist. If the effect of this revolution should be to unite in still closer bonds of amity the former friendly and intimate relations of the King of the Netherlands with Great Britain which seems to be probable, it must be considered that the agreement to refer would, in that event, be rendered of no avail. Whatever confidence may be put in the justice of our cause, however clearly our right may be shown in argument, we certainly could not be willing to submit it to umpirage of a sovereign, who is not only the ally, but who, by the force of circumstances, may have become, in some measure, the dependent ally of Great Britain. These events have naturally and justly given rise to the anxiety which is felt on this subject. We have every reason, however, to have confidence on the good wishes and exertions of the President towards a satisfactory settlement of this important question. And his appointment of a Minister from among the citizens of this State, well acquainted with the merits of the, to present our argument to the umpire for decisions, has increased our assurance of the desire of the federal government to consult our wishes and give satisfaction to the people of this State. I am not aware that any thing at present remains to be done by the legislature, that can facilitate this inquiry, or effect the result. It affords me pleasure to be enabled to state, that the claim of duty of this State in common with Massachusetts on the national government for services rendered by the militia during the last war with Great Britain is in a train to be finally adjusted and settled. At the last session of Congress an act was passed, authorizing the payment of a considerable portion of this claim, estimated to amount to more than four hundred ad thirty thousand dollars, one third part of which, according to the act of separation, after it shall have been paid to Massachusetts, is to be received by Maine. The interest upon this