Friday, May 1.
The Speaker laid before the House a copy of the speech of the President of the United States, to both Houses of Congress, delivered yesterday in the Senate Chamber, immediately after his inauguration, which being read,
On motion,
Resolved, That the said speech be committed to a Committee of the whole House.
The House accordingly resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole, Mr. Page in the chair. And after adopting the following resolution, the committee rose, and reported it to the House, which agreed to it.
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this committee, that an address to the President ought to be prepared, expressing the congratulations of the House of Representatives, on the distinguished proof given him of the affection and confidence of his fellow-citizens, by the unanimous suffrage which has appointed him to the high station which he fills; the approbation felt by the House of the patriotic sentiments and enlightened policy recommended by his speech; and assuring him of their disposition to concur in giving effect to every measure which may tend to secure the liberties, promote the harmony, and advance the happiness and prosperity of their country.
Ordered, That a committee to consist of five members be appointed to prepare an address pursuant to the said resolution. The members elected Messrs. Madison, Clymer, Sherman, Gale, and Benson.
A motion was made that the House do come to the following resolution:
Resolved, That —— per annum be the compensation to be allowed to the President of the United States, during the term for which he is to be elected.
The said resolution being read, was committed to a Committee of the whole House.
The House then proceeded by ballot to the appointment of a Chaplain to Congress on the part of this House. Upon examining the ballots, it appeared that the Rev. William Linn was elected.
Samuel Livermore, from New Hampshire, appeared and took his seat.