In the strengthening and gratifying of these wants I see the only prospect of planting on the Mississippi itself the means of its own safety.

Duty has required me to submit these views to the judgment of the Legislature, but as their disclosure might embarrass and defeat their effect, they are committed to the special confidence of the two Houses.

Indeed, it would be the most proper and acceptable form in which the annuity could be paid which we propose to give them for the cession.

These springs are said to possess the advantage of being accompanied with a bed of coal.

It does not go to the satisfaction of all our claims, but the express reservation of our right to press the validity of the residue has been made the ground of further instructions to our minister.

The spoliations and irregularities committed on our commerce during the late war by subjects of Spain or by others deemed within her responsibility having called for attention.

The Spanish Government listened to our proposition with an honorable readiness and agreed to a convention, which I now submit for your advice and consent.

But as the possession of these provinces is still in Spain, and the course of events may retard or prevent the cession to France being carried into effect, to secure our object it will be expedient to address equal powers to the Government…

While my confidence in our minister plenipotentiary at Paris is entire and undiminished, I still think that these objects might be promoted by joining with him a person sent from hence directly, carrying with him the feelings and…

Should any others in consequence of this be made during the session of Congress, they shall be immediately communicated.

They are, as you will perceive, but a small proportion of the whole.

I have always considered marriage as the most interesting event of one's life, the foundation of happiness or misery.

Do not let anyone claim tribute of American patriotism if they even attempt to remove religion from politics.

True patriotism is not just a feeling but a commitment to the well-being of our country.

I can not express how greatly affected I am at this new proof of public confidence.

I must not conceal from you my earnest wish that the choice had fallen upon a man less declined in years and better qualified to encounter the usual vicissitudes of war.

Satisfied, therefore, that you have sincerely wished and endeavored to avert war, and exhausted to the last drop the cup of reconciliation, we can with pure hearts appeal to Heaven for the justice of our cause.

I have finally determined to accept the commission of Commander in Chief of the armies of the United States.