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state of our finances, should think favorably of extending a portion of the public bounty to the higher seminaries of learning, as contemplated by the constitution, I would respectfully recommend that some system be devised and adopted, by which a regular and just distribution may be made to these institutions, having reference to the necessities and usefulness of each, and to the past appropriations which several of them have received from the State. To ensure however correctness of legislation, permit me to suggest, that accurate returns should be required, annually, from each of these institutions, of the number, annually, from each of these institutions, of the number laugh, the several branches of study perused, the amount annually paid for instruction, and any other items on which information may seem desirable. I have the satisfaction to inform you that the sum of twenty thousand dollars by individual donations, in aid of the establishment of an Insane Hospital. An eligible site upon the east bank of the Kennebec River in Augusta, has been purchased for this purpose, and a deed conveying the premises to the State has been duly executed. It has not, however yet, been deemed expedient to appoint a Board of Commissioners, to Superintend the erection of the buildings, as it is now I believe, satisfactory ascertained that it would be more for the interest of the State to entrust this duty to a single individual. If upon mature deliberation you should coincide in this opinion. I would respectfully suggest whether further legislative action upon this subject may not be necessary. Under the Resolve of the twenty-fourth of March last, a sum not exceeding four thousands dollars was appropriated for the purpose of aiding our indigent blind, in procuring an education at the New England Asylum in Boston. In accordance with the provisions