as will be just to all by transferring each at a proper period of life from one class to another and by calling first for the services of that class, whether for instruction or action, which from age is qualified for the duty and may be called to perform it with least injury to themselves or to the public.  Should the danger ever become so imminent as to require additional force, the other classes in succession would be ready for the call.  And if in addition to this organization voluntary associations were encouraged and inducements held out for their formation, our militia would be in a state of efficient service.  Now, when we are at peace, is the proper time to digest and establish a practicable system.  The object is certainly worth the experiment and worth the expense.  No one appreciating the blessings of a republican government can object to his share of the burden which such a plan may impose.  Indeed, a moderate portion of the national funds could scarcely be better applied than in carrying into effect and continuing such an arrangement, and in giving the necessary elementary instruction.  We are happily at peace with all the world.  A sincere desire to continue so and a fixed determination to give no just cause of offense to other nations furnish, unfortunately, no certain grounds of expectation that this relation will be uninterrupted.  With this determination to give no offense is associated a resolution, equally decided, tamely to submit to none.  The armor and the attitude of defense afford the best security against those collisions which the ambition, or interest, or some other passion of nations not more justifiable is liable to produce.  In many countries it is considered unsafe to put arms into the hands of the people and to instruct them in the elements of military knowledge.  That fear can have no place here when it is recollected that the people are the sovereign power.  Our Government was instituted and is supported by the ballot box, not by the musket.  Whatever changes await it, still greater changes must be made in our social institutions before our political system can yield to physical force.  In every aspect, therefore, in which I can view the subject I am impressed with the importance of a prompt and efficient organization of the militia.

The plan of removing the aboriginal people who yet remain within the settled portions of the United States to the country west of the Mississippi River approaches its consummation.  It was adopted on the most mature consideration of the condition of this race, and ought to be persisted in till the object is accomplished, and prosecuted with as much vigor as a just regard to their circumstances will permit, and as fast as their consent can be obtained.  All preceding experiments for the improvement of the Indians have failed.  It seems now to be an established fact that they can not live in contact with a civilized community and prosper.  Ages of fruitless endeavors have at length