former to garrison and preserve our fortifications and to meet the first invasions of a foreign foe, and, while constituting the elements of a greater force, to preserve the science as well as all the necessary implements of war in a state to be brought into activity in the event of war; the latter, retained within the limits proper in a state of peace, might aid in maintaining the neutrality of the United States with dignity in the wars of other powers and in saving the property of their citizens from spoliation.  In time of war, with the enlargement of which the great naval resources of the country render it susceptible, and which should be duly fostered in time of peace, it would contribute essentially, both as an auxiliary of defense and as a powerful engine of annoyance, to diminish the calamities of war and to bring the war to a speedy and honorable termination.

But it ought always to be held prominently in view that the safety of these States and of everything dear to a free people must depend in an eminent degree on the militia.  Invasions may be made too formidable to be resisted by any land and naval force which it would comport either with the principles of our Government or the circumstances of the United States to maintain.  In such cases recourse must be had to the great body of the people, and in a manner to produce the best effect.  It is of the highest importance, therefore, that they be so organized and trained as to be prepared for any emergency.  The arrangement should be such as to put at the command of the Government the ardent patriotism and youthful vigor of the country.  If formed on equal and just principles, it can not be oppressive.  It is the crisis which makes the pressure, and not the laws which provide a remedy for it.  This arrangement should be formed, too, in time of peace, to be the better prepared for war.  With such an organization of such a people the United States have nothing to dread from foreign invasion.  At its approach an overwhelming force of gallant men might always be put in motion.

Other interests of high importance will claim attention, among which the improvement of our country by roads and canals, proceeding always with a constitutional sanction, holds a distinguished place.  By thus facilitating the intercourse between the States we shall add much to the convenience and comfort of our fellow-citizens, much to the ornament of the country, and, what is of greater importance, we shall shorten distances, and, by making each part more accessible to and dependent on the other, we shall bind the Union more closely together.  Nature has done so much for us by intersecting the country with so many great rivers, bays, and lakes, approaching from distant points so near to each other, that the inducement to complete the work seems to be peculiarly strong.  A more interesting spectacle was perhaps never seen than is exhibited within the limits of the United States—­a territory so vast and advantageously situated, containing objects so grand, so useful, so happily connected in all their parts!