428 
the tranquil enjoyment of pros- 
perous and honourable peace. In 
reviewing the scenes through 
which it has been attained, we can 
rejoice in the proofs given, that 
our political institutions, founded 
in human rights, and framed for 
their preservation, are equal to the 
severest trials of war, as well as 
adapted to the ordinary periods of 
repose. As fruits of this experi- 
ence, and of the reputation ac- 
quired by the American arms, on 
the land and on the water, the na- 
tion finds itself possessed of a 
growing respect abroad, and of a 
just confidence in itself, which are 
among the best pledges for its 
peaceful career. 
Under other aspects of our 
country, the strongest features of 
its flourishing condition are seen, 
in a population rapidly increasing, 
on a territory as productive as it is 
extensive; in a’ general industry, 
and fertile ingenuity, which find 
their ample rewards; and in an 
affluent revenue, which admits a 
reduction of the public burthens 
without withdrawing’ the means of 
ANNUAL REGISTER, 1815. 
sustaining the public credit, of gra- 
dually discharging the public debt, 
of providing for the necessary de- 
fensive and precautionary estab- 
lishments, and of patronising, in 
every authorised mode, undertak- 
ings conducive to the aggregate 
wealth and individual comfort of 
our citizens. 
It remains for the guardians of 
the public welfare, to persevere in 
that justice and good-will towards 
other nations, which invite a return 
of these sentiments towards the 
United States; to cherish institu- 
tions which guarantee their safety, 
and their liberties, civil and reli- 
gious; and to combine with a li- 
beral system of foreign commerce, 
an improvement of the natural ad- 
vantages, and a protection and ex- 
tension of the independent resources 
of our highly-favoured and happy 
country. 
In all measures having such ob- 
jects, my faithful co-operation will 
be afforded. 
James Mapison, 
Washington, Dec. 5, 1815. 
CHARACTERS. 
