If a
just perception of mutual interest shall permit us peaceably to
pursue our separate political career, my most earnest desire
will have been fulfilled. But if this be denied to us, and the
integrity of our territory and jurisdiction be assailed, it will
but remain for us with firm resolve to appeal to arms and invoke
the blessing of Providence on a just cause.
"As a consequence of our new condition and relations, and with a
view to meet anticipated wants, it will be necessary to provide
for the speedy and efficient organization of branches of the
Executive department having special charge of foreign
intercourse, finance, military affairs, and the postal service.
For purposes of defense, the Confederate States may, under
ordinary circumstances, rely mainly upon the militia; but it is
deemed advisable, in the present condition of affairs, that
there should be a well-instructed and disciplined army, more
numerous than would usually be required on a peace
establishment. I also suggest that, for the protection of our
harbors and commerce on the high seas, a navy adapted to those
objects will be required. But this, as well as other subjects
appropriate to our necessities, have doubtless engaged the
attention of Congress.
"With a Constitution differing only from that of our fathers in
so far as it is explanatory of their well-known intent, freed
from sectional conflicts, which have interfered with the pursuit
of the general welfare, it is not unreasonable to expect that
States from which we have recently parted may seek to unite
their fortunes to ours under the Government which we have
instituted.
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