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184 be amply remunerated for the loss sustained, and the principle for which she has uniformly contended, that the United States have not constitutionally power to alienate any portion of the territory of the State, without the consent of such state, will not be abandoned. The adjustment of the controversy will also relieve the United States from much embarrassment in their relations with Great Britain and terminate those collisions with the British authorities, which if continued would inevitably prevent the settlement of the territory and endanger the peace of the nation. I would further suggest the necessity of acting with promptness upon this subject after it shall have received that attentive consideration to which by its importance to the honor and interests of the State and the welfare of the United States, it is eminently entitled. As the Government of Massachusetts has been invited to cooperate in the measures heretofore taken by this Legislature, it may also be proper that she should be requested to unite with us in the proposed arrangement, if upon consideration its adoption should be deemed expedient. Council Chamber Augusta, February 22, 1832 Samuel E. Smith

An order came from the Senate for concurrence directing that the confidential communication from the Governor together with two letters from William P. Preble our agent at Washington be committed to Messrs. Boutelle, Megquire, Emerson, Thayer and Sweat with such as the House may join and the House concurred and Messrs. Clifford of Newfield, Gerrish of Portland, McCrate of Nobleborough, Williams of Augusta, Steele of Brownfield, Bronson of Anson, Knowlton of Montville and Miller of Howland being one from each county were joined on the part of the House.

The secret session was then closed.