The constant maintenance of a small squadron in the Mediterranean is a necessary substitute for the humiliating alternative of paying tribute for the security of our commerce in that sea, and for a precarious peace, at the mercy of every caprice of four Barbary States, by whom it was liable to be violated.
Adams argues for maintaining a naval presence in the Mediterranean to avoid paying tribute and ensure security for American commerce.
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I now transmit to Congress copies of communications received from the governor of Georgia relating to that subject.
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