John Tyler: “The practical statesman has a very different task to perform.”

In view of the magnitude and importance of our national concerns, actual and prospective, in China, I submit to the consideration of Congress the expediency of providing for the preservation and cultivation of the subsisting relations of…

In compliance with the request of the governor of the State of Illinois, I transmit herewith a copy of certain resolutions adopted by the general assembly of that State.

Some action on the part of Congress seems desirable in order to give full effect to these important concessions of the Chinese Government.

I transmit herewith additional documents having relation to the treaty with China, which may enable the Senate more satisfactorily to act upon it.