It is time that this war had ceased.

The United States would be at all times indisposed to aggrandize itself at the expense of any other nation.

It is by such acts of good will by one to another of the family of nations that fraternal feelings are nourished and the blessings of permanent peace secured.

I recommend that at your present session you adopt such measures in order to carry into effect the Smithsonian bequest.

We have new cause for the expression of our gratitude

While, therefore, the Executive would deplore any collision with Mexico or any disturbance of the friendly relations which exist between the two countries, it can not permit that Government to control its policy.

I have much pleasure in saying that the Government of Brazil has adjusted the claim upon that Government in the case of the schooner John S. Bryan.

It can not be too often repeated that the prominent interest of every important pursuit of life requires for success permanency and stability in legislation.

The war which has existed for so long a time between Mexico and Texas has since the battle of San Jacinto consisted for the most part of predatory incursions.

I can not, however, withhold the remark that its advantages contrasted with a bank of the United States, apart from the fact that a bank was esteemed as obnoxious to the public sentiment.

Confidence between man and man is in a great measure restored and the credit of this Government fully and perfectly reestablished.

As preparatory, therefore, to entering once more upon the high duties of legislation, it becomes us humbly to acknowledge our dependence upon Him as our guide and protector.

I shall be permitted to exchange congratulations with you, gentlemen of the two Houses of Congress, on these auspicious circumstances.

Since the last adjournment of Congress the Executive has relaxed no effort to render indestructible the relations of amity which so happily exist between the United States and other countries.

The occasional interruption experienced by our fellow-citizens engaged in the fisheries on the neighboring coast of Nova Scotia has not failed to claim the attention of the Executive.

I can not take leave of this painful subject without adverting to the aid rendered upon the occasion by the British authorities at Gibraltar.

We could not be expected quietly to permit any such interference to our disadvantage.

I was led to do so by considerations of his high talent, his exalted character, and great moral worth.