Abridgment of the Debates of Congress, from 1789 to 1856, Vol. 3 (of 16)

by United States. Congress

Friday, December 18.

Embargo.

The following Message was received from the President of the United States:

To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States:

The communications now made, showing the great and increasing dangers with which our vessels, our seamen, and merchandise, are threatened on the high seas and elsewhere, from the belligerent powers of Europe, and it being of the greatest importance to keep in safety these essential resources, I deem it my duty to recommend the subject to the consideration of Congress, who will doubtless perceive all the advantages which may be expected from an inhibition of the departure of our vessels from the ports of the United States.

Their wisdom will also see the necessity of making every preparation for whatever events may grow out of the present crisis.

TH. JEFFERSON.

December 18, 1807.

Ordered, That the Message, together with the papers therein referred to, be committed to Messrs. Smith of Maryland, Adams, Anderson, Bradley, and Gregg, to consider and report thereon; and that the same be considered as confidential.