5792. NAVY, Size of.—[further continued].
With respect to the extent
to which our naval preparations should
be carried, some difference of opinion may be
expected to appear; but just attention to the
circumstances of every part of the Union will
doubtless reconcile all. A small force will
probably continue to be wanted for actual
service in the Mediterranean. Whatever annual
sum beyond that you may think proper
to apportionate to naval preparations, would
perhaps be better employed in providing those
articles which may be kept without waste or
consumption, and be in readiness when any
exigence calls them into use.—
First Inaugural Message. Washington ed. viii, 12.
Ford ed., viii, 122.
(Dec. 1801)
