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XIV republican institutions of Government, and the welfare and happiness of the people, can in no other way be so effectually promoted, as by liberally providing for the instruction of the rising generation. It is also believed, that the Legislature are imperatively required to regard this subject by the article of the constitution, which provides "that it shall be their duty to encourage and suitably endow, from time to time, as the circumstances of the people may authorize, all academies, colleges and seminaries of learning within the State." From information received, I am enabled to state, that the concerns of the State Prison at Thomaston are in an improved condition. It is believed that the proceeds of the labour of the convicts, for the last year, will exceed the expense of supporting them by more than four hundred dollars; but in this estimate, the salaries of the officers, with the exception of those of Chaplain and Physician, are not included. No special appropriation will therefore, be necessary for the support of the Prison during the present year. The situation of the public lands belonging to the State will require your consideration. For information of the manner in which they have been managed during the past year, I must refer you to the report of the Land Agent, which, when received, will be laid before you. I know of no means by which their improvement and settlement, the objects most interesting to the State, can be more effectually promoted, than by clearing obstructions in the rivers, and making roads through them and by sales in small quantities to actual settlers. In pursuance of the Resolve in relation to