The grant of transits in our favor and the guaranty of our protection as an equivalent.

This treaty is in accordance with the policy inaugurated by the Government of the United States.

I also return the treaty itself, presuming that the Senate so intended.

We ought to reflect that in this age, and especially in this country, there is an incessant flux and reflux of public opinion.

Having ratified the treaty between the United States and the Empire of China, pursuant to the advice and consent of the Senate as expressed in their resolution of the 15th of December last, I lost no time in forwarding my ratification thither, in the hope that it might reach that country in season to be exchanged for the ratification of the Emperor within the time limited for that purpose.

Unforeseen circumstances, however, retarded the exchange until the 16th of August last.

I transmit to the Senate a report from the Secretary of State and the papers referred to therein, in answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 21st of December last, in relation to the suspension of diplomatic relations with Mexico by the United States legation in that country.

He was able, honest, and indefatigable in the discharge of his high and responsible duties, whilst his benevolent heart and his kind deportment endeared him to all who approached him.

It has become my sad duty to announce to the Senate the death of Aaron V. Brown, late Postmaster-General, at his residence in this city on yesterday morning at twenty minutes past 9 o'clock.

Submitting, as I do, with humble resignation to the will of Divine Providence in this calamitous dispensation, I shall ever cherish his memory with affectionate regard.

The death of this distinguished public officer, especially at the present moment, when his eminent services are so much needed, is a great loss to his country.