On receiving from the people the sacred trust twice confided on my illustrious predecessor, and which he has discharged so faithfully and so well, I know that I can not expect to perform the arduous task with equal ability and success.

It is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't.

The condition of the tribes which occupy the country set apart for them in the West is highly prosperous, and encourages the hope of their early civilization. They have for the most part abandoned the hunter state and turned their attention to agricultural pursuits.

Between Russia and the United States sentiments of good will continue to be mutually cherished.

The government should not be guided by Temporary Excitement, but by Sober Second Thought.

The case of the Seminoles constitutes at present the only exception to the successful efforts of the Government to remove the Indians to the homes assigned them west of the Mississippi.

I shall tread in the footsteps of my illustrious predecessor.