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468 any power to erect those works, but simply to exercise exclusive legislation over the places where they are erected, such place having been previously purchased with the consent of the states in which the same shall be. The power to erect such works and buildings is nowhere expressed in the Constitution. It is, then, an implied power, whose existence is recognized by the Constitution itself. But where can it be found, unless it is involved in the express powers to regulate commerce, and provide for the common defence? Without navigation, without commerce by sea, we should need no lighthouses, beacons, or piers.

If, then, it was constitutional to erect the works which have been men- tioned, to give facility, safety, and expedition to commerce by sea, will any one deny the constitutional power of Congress to erect similar works on our interior waters on the great lakes?



, February 27, 1817.





To the House of Representatives of the United States:

Having considered the bill this day presented to me, entitled "An Act to set apart and pledge certain funds for internal improvements;" and which sets and pledges funds "for constructing roads and canals, and improving the navigation of watercourses, in order to facilitate, promote, and give security to, internal commerce among the several states, and to render more easy and less expensive the means and provisions for the common defence," I am constrained, by the insuperable difficulty I feel in reconciling the bill with the Constitution of the United States, to return it, with that objection, to the House of Representatives, in which it originated.