impairs, or questions the right of expatriation is inconsistent with the fundamental principles of this Government.  But Congress did not indicate in that statute, nor has it since done so, what acts are to be deemed to work expatriation.  For my own guidance in determining such questions I required (under the provisions of the Constitution) the opinion in writing of the principal officer in each of the Executive Departments upon certain questions relating to this subject.  The result satisfies me that further legislation has become necessary.  I therefore commend the subject to the careful consideration of Congress, and I transmit herewith copies of the several opinions of the principal officers of the Executive Departments, together with other correspondence and pertinent information on the same subject.

The United States, who led the way in the overthrow of the feudal doctrine of perpetual allegiance, are among the last to indicate how their own citizens may elect another nationality.  The papers submitted herewith indicate what is necessary to place us on a par with other leading nations in liberality of legislation on this international question.  We have already in our treaties assented to the principles which would need to be embodied in laws intended to accomplish such results.  We have agreed that citizens of the United States may cease to be citizens and may voluntarily render allegiance to other powers.  We have agreed that residence in a foreign land, without intent to return, shall of itself work expatriation.  We have agreed in some instances upon the length of time necessary for such continued residence to work a presumption of such intent.  I invite Congress now to mark out and define when and how expatriation can be accomplished; to regulate by law the condition of American women marrying foreigners; to fix the status of children born in a foreign country of American parents residing more or less permanently abroad, and to make rules for determining such other kindred points as may seem best to Congress.

In compliance with the request of Congress, I transmitted to the American minister at Madrid, with instructions to present it to the Spanish Government, the joint resolution approved on the 3d of March last, tendering to the people of Spain, in the name and on the behalf of the American people, the congratulations of Congress upon the efforts to consolidate in Spain the principles of universal liberty in a republican form of government.

The existence of this new Republic was inaugurated by striking the fetters from the slaves in Porto Rico.  This beneficent measure was followed by the release of several thousand persons illegally held as slaves in Cuba.  Next, the Captain-General of that colony was deprived of the power to set aside the orders of his superiors at Madrid, which had pertained to the office since 1825.  The sequestered estates of American citizens, which had been the cause of long and fruitless correspondence, were ordered to