These suggestions are, however, applicable to the British commerce as well as to our own, and they do not explain why we, with the natural advantages in our favor, fall so far behind.  The Isthmus of Panama is the common point where the commerce of the western coasts of Mexico and South America meets.  When it arrives there, why should it seek Liverpool and London rather than New York?

The political causes which have operated to divert this commerce from us the Secretary of State has endeavored to explain.  A favorable time has now come for removing them—­for laying the foundation of an American policy which shall bind in closer union the American Republics.  Let them understand that the United States do not covet their territories; that our only desire is to see them peaceful, with free and stable governments, increasing in wealth and population, and developing in the lines in which their own traditions, customs, habits, laws, and modes of thought will naturally take them.  Let them feel that, as in 1826, so now, this Government is ready to aid them to the full extent of its constitutional power in any steps which they may take for their better protection against anarchy.  Let them be convinced that the United States is prepared, in good faith and without ulterior purposes, to join them in the development of a peaceful American commercial policy that may in time include this continent and the West Indian Islands.  Let this be comprehended, and there will be no political reason why we may not “secure to the United States that proportionate share of the trade of this continent to which their close relations of geographical contiguity and political friendship with all the States of America justly entitle them.”

It may not be enough to remove the political obstacles only.  The financial policy which the war made necessary may have operated injuriously upon our commerce with these States.  The resolution of the Senate calls, on these points, for detailed information which is not within the control of the Secretary of State, and for recommendations for the future which he is not prepared to give without that information.  To fully answer the Senate’s call, it would probably be necessary to employ some competent agent, familiar with the Spanish American States, to collate and arrange the information asked for.  For this there is no appropriation by Congress.

Respectfully submitted.

HAMILTON FISH.

Commerce of the United States with the countries on this continent and adjacent islands for the year ended June 30, 1860.

[Compiled from the Annual Report on Commerce and Navigation.]

Countries.  Imports.  Exports.  Reexports.  Total Total
exports. commerce.
____________________________________________________________
___________
Dominion of
Canada $3,353,010 $18,188,613 $2,858,782 $21,047,395 $51,400,405
All other
British