have a most salutary and beneficial effect, as indicating to other nations the character of our citizens, and the strength of our government. I do not propose to discuss, in this place, the issues involved in the election, but simply to declare that the result plainly establishes the determination of the American people that slavery shall cease to exist, and that the authority of the government shall not be made subservient to the doctrine of State sovereignty and the right of secession. Let us hope that these questions are now working out a final solution, and that the Federal Union, freed from the curse of slavery, which has been the cause of discontent and treason, shall take its place as a mighty nation, powerful enough to overcome its enemies, both at home and abroad. In the accomplishment of this great work, Michigan will not be wantir g, and in furnishing the necessary means for that end, whether of men or money, she will in the future, as in the past, promptly and cheerfully meet every just demand made upon her. Her people are, as they ever have been, truly loyal; and we have the proud satisfaction of believing that no more gallant, noble, heroic or self-sacrificing bodies of men have gone into the Federal armies than those which have been organized in, and sent from the State of Michigan. On previous occasions, the Legislature of Michigan has not been backward in expressing by joint resolutions, the abiding loyalty and patriotism of her people; and I submit to your consideration whether the present would not, be an appropriate time for a renewal, in that form, of the declaration of their firm determination and unaltered purpose to stand by the Government in its efforts to maintain the integrity of the Union and the supremacy of the Constitution and laws of the United States. I also suggest-as a further embodiment of the late expression of the popular will in our State-the propriety of your officially requesting our Senators and Representatives in Congress, to use their influ ence in favor of the adoption of the necessary measures for so amending the Constitution as forever to prohibit the existence of slavery within the limits of the national jurisdiction. FELLOW CITIZENS-The Constitution of the State has clearly defined the appropriate duties of the Executive and the Legislature. It is not necessary for me to repeat them. Let us apply ourselves honestly and faithfully to the discharge of those duties, mindful of the trusts committed to us, and keeping constantly in view the interests of the whole people of the State, and the high and noble purposes for which this government was established. To this end and with this spirit I tender you my prompt and earnest coöperation. EXECUTIVE OFFICE, Lansing, January 4, 1865. HENRY H. CRAPO. |