increase of people and territory has not only shown itself compatible
with the harmonious action of the States and Federal Government in
their respective constitutional spheres, but has afforded an additional
guaranty of the strength and integrity of both.

With an experience thus suggestive and cheering, the policy of my
Administration will not be controlled by any timid forebodings of evil
from expansion. Indeed, it is not to be disguised that our attitude as
a nation and our position on the globe render the acquisition of
certain possessions not within our jurisdiction eminently important for
our protection, if not in the future essential for the preservation of
the rights of commerce and the peace of the world. Should they be
obtained, it will be through no grasping spirit, but with a view to
obvious national interest and security, and in a manner entirely
consistent with the strictest observance of national faith. We have
nothing in our history or position to invite aggression; we have
everything to beckon us to the cultivation of relations of peace and
amity with all nations. Purposes, therefore, at once just and pacific
will be significantly marked in the conduct of our foreign affairs. I
intend that my Administration shall leave no blot upon our fair record,
and trust I may safely give the assurance that no act within the
legitimate scope of my constitutional control will be tolerated on the
part of any portion of our citizens which can not challenge a ready
justification before the tribunal of the civilized world. An
Administration would be unworthy of confidence at home or respect
abroad should it cease to be influenced by the conviction that no
apparent advantage can be purchased at a price so dear as that of
national wrong or dishonor. It is not your privilege as a nation to
speak of a distant past. The striking incidents of your history,
replete with instruction and furnishing abundant grounds for hopeful