2134. DEFENCE, Coast.—
A steady, perhaps,
a quickened pace in preparations for the
defence of our seaport towns and waters; an
early settlement of the most exposed and vulnerable
parts of our country; a militia so organized
that its effective portions can be called
to any point in the Union, or volunteers instead
of them to serve a sufficient time, are
means which may always be ready yet never
preying on our resources until actually called
into use. They will maintain the public interests
while a more permanent force shall be in
course of preparation.—
Sixth Annual Message. Washington ed. viii, 69.
Ford ed., viii, 495.
(Dec. 1806)
See Militia.
