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The appropriations from our Treasury for the benevolent purpose of furnishing instruction to the Deaf and Dumb have been applied by my predecessors with great prudence and discretion. An Institution for this object of essential utility has been for some time in operation at Hartford in Connecticut, and several individuals are now supported there, either wholly or in part, at the expense of this State. The welfare of this unfortunate class of our fellow beings greatly depends on their moral and intellectual culture and we cannot be insensible to their strong claims upon the humanity of a discerning and enlightened Legislature. But while we have thus made provision for the Deaf and Dumb, we have passed by others who have no less claim to be included among the subjects for public liberality. I allude to the unfortunate Insane, many of whom are in a condition which makes the strongest appeal to our sympathy, and might, I apprehend, derive the highest benefit from the advantages which an Insane Hospital would afford. I submit therefore for your consideration whether it would not comport with the humane character of our citizens, and at the same time reflect honor upon us as a State, to make some suitable provision for their relief, either by aiding in the endowment of a Lunatic Hospital or by making an appropriation in aid of those who may seek the benefits of such institutions already established in other States. Among the most important subjects for legislative encouragement, the interests