The all-important subject of Education now occupies the public mind with more than usual interest, and I particularly recommend to your favorable notice the suggestions of the President of the Board of Education, with reference to substituting English for Hawaiian schools, in so far as may be practicable, and also in relation to the granting of Government aid towards independent schools for the education and moral training of females.
Through the laudable efforts of a number of private individuals—whom I take this first public opportunity of thanking—several establishments of this latter description have been instituted during the past year; and although thus far little more than a commencement in the good work has been made, their progress has been satisfactory. I dwell on this subject, Nobles and Representatives, because our very existence as a people depends on the youthful training of the future mothers of our land, and that must not be jeopardized through lack of effort on our part.
To your careful consideration I recommend the proposed amendments to the Constitution, as passed by the last Legislature.
The "Queen's Hospital," at Honolulu, instituted for the relief of the sick and indigent, has now been in operation for nine months, and to this praiseworthy institution I direct your attention, that suitable provision in aid thereof may be made in the biennial estimates, with a view also that branch Dispensaries may be established at other places in the Kingdom.
In conclusion, Nobles and Representatives, I trust that in your deliberations on the necessary business that may come before you, that you will combine care with dispatch, and I will join with you in supplicating the Ruler of all nations for that wisdom which will best direct your efforts.
May 30, 1860.
His Majesty's Reply to Rev. W. P. Alexander, on behalf of the "Hawaiian Evangelical Association."
I assure you, gentlemen, that no expression of good will towards myself or my people is necessary on your part; that is well known. Nor need I say that the same confidence and friendly regard which was ever cherished towards you by my predecessors is entertained by myself. The feeling with me is not only personal but hereditary.
In regard to those portions of my speech to the Legislature to which you are pleased to refer, I shall certainly rely upon the co-operation of the clergy in carrying into effect any measures that may be adopted for the suppression of those great evils referred to, and I am confident that I shall have it not only in this but in every other good work.