That event is interesting in itself, but its interest to me is in the fact that this ship is the type and precursor of many others.

It gives me pleasure to consummate here to-day, by the act of lifting this flag, the efforts in support of a principle to which I give my hearty support.

I believe we have reached an epoch in our development when we may successfully begin the work of carrying our share of the world's commerce upon the seas.

We lift the flag to-day over one ship, a magnificent specimen of the naval art, one of the best on any sea.

I have felt as a citizen and as President a mortification which every American must feel who examines into the standing of the United States in the merchant marine of the world.

I transmit herewith a report submitted by the Acting Secretary of State in response to the resolution of the Senate of February 2 last, relating to the building of the Ozama River bridge at Santo Domingo City by American citizens.

It has been the policy of the Administration not only to respect but to encourage the continuance of an independent government in the Hawaiian Islands so long as it afforded suitable guaranties for the protection of life and property and…

The correspondence which accompanies the treaty will put the Senate in possession of all the facts known to the Executive.

This legislation should be, and I do not doubt will be, not only just to the natives and all other residents and citizens of the islands, but should be characterized by great liberality and a high regard to the rights of all people and of…

Only two courses are now open--one the establishment of a protectorate by the United States, and the other annexation full and complete.

The influence and interest of the United States in the islands must be increased and not diminished.

Prompt action upon this treaty is very desirable.

Such a possession would not consist with our safety and with the peace of the world.

The provisional treaty, it will be observed, does not attempt to deal in detail with the questions that grow out of the annexation of the Hawaiian Islands to the United States.

The commissioners representing the Hawaiian Government have consented to leave to the future and to the just and benevolent purposes of the United States the adjustment of all such questions.

If it meets the approval of the Senate, peace and good order will be secured in the islands under existing laws until such time as Congress can provide by legislation a permanent from of government for the islands.

I transmit herewith a special report of the Commissioner of Labor relating to compulsory insurance of workingmen in Germany and other countries.

I transmit herewith a communication of the 13th instant from the Secretary of the Interior