Page:Centennial History of Oregon 1811-1912, Volume 1.djvu/308



"We would recommend that the act passed by this assembly, in June last, relative to blacks and mulattoes, to be so amended as to exclude corporeal punishment, and require bonds for good behavior in the stead.

We consider it a highly important subject that the executive of this govern- ment should have lavi^s V7hich may direct them in settling matters relative to lands reserved by Indians, which have been, or hereafter may be, settled upon by whites.

We would also recommend that provisions be made for the support of luna- tics and insane persons in Oregon.

With regard to the state of the treasury, we would refer you to the treas- urer's report to this assembly.

We are informed that the number of emigrants who have come from the United States to this country, during the present year, amounts to upwards of 750 persons.

We would recommend that the act passed last June, defining the northern boundaries of Twality and Clatsop counties be so explained as not to conflict with the act passed in this assembly in June, 1843, extending the limits of Oregon to 54 degrees, 40 minutes north latitude.

And we would suggest, in conclusion, that to preserve the peace, good order, and kind feelings which have hitherto existed among the inhabitants of this coun- try, depends very much upon the calm and deliberate judgment of this assembly. And we sincerely hope that Oregon, by the special aid of Divine Providence, may set an unprecedented example to the world, of industry, morality and virtue.

And, although, we may now be unknown, as a state or power, yet we have the advantages by vmited efforts of our increasing population, in a diligent atten- tion to agriculture, arts, and literature, of attaining, at no distant day, to as con^ spicuous an elevation as any state or power on the continent of America.

But, in order to carry this important measure, and arise to that distinguished station, it becomes the duty of every citizen of this country, to take a deep inter- est in its present and future welfare.

As descendants of the United States, and of Great Britain, we would honor and respect the countries which gave us birth ; and, as citizens of Oregon, we should, by a uniform course or proceeding, and a strict observance of the rules of justice, equity, and republican principles, without party distinction, use our best endeavors to cultivate the kind feeling, not only of our native countries, but of all the powers or states with whom we may have intercourse.

(Signed)

OsBORN Russell, P. G. Stewart,

Executive Committee of Oregon.

TREASURER S REPORT

(Dated)

Willamette Falls, December 16, 1844.

At this meeting of the legislature the territorial treasurer, W. H. Willson, presented the first report on the treasury as follows: