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6 THE INS AND OUTS. Continued From First Pare. INTERNAL IMPROVEMENT LAND FUND. Cash $136,846 33 Land contracts 1,380,541 45 $322,1)00 Minnesota railroad ad- justment bonds 322,000 00 Interest overdraft 11.206 32 $1,850,687 10 Less adjustm't bonds canceled 322,000 00 Total $1,528,627 10 These statements show an increase in these funds in two years of $1,382,610.85, and an • aggregate accumulation of $9,601,637.14. There yet remain unsold of the congressional grants of land from which these funds are derived (estimating the full grant to common schools at 3,i 00,000 acres), 1,887.571 acres in the common school grant. 80,823 acres in the university grant, and 175,317 in the internal improvement land grant. It seems likely that former estimates of the ultimate accumula- tions of these funds will be realized, and that when ait the lunds are disposed of me perma- lent school fund will amount to fully 818,- '00.000. the university fund to over Sl.0u0.000 and the internal improvement land fund to nearly S3, 000,000. STATE DEBT. Its Reduction in Twa Years Nearly Haifa lion. The Indebtedness of the state is represented by the following issues of bonds: Railroad adjustment bonds, is- sue of 1881, due iu twenty and redeemable in ten years, 4J_ percent $3,965,000 00 .Revenue bonds, issue of 1883, re- deemable at the pleasure of the state, 4". per cent 61,000 00 Total $4,026,000 00 The state debt has been reduced in two years $137,000. by the redemption of $139,000 of revenue bonds and the cancellation of $322,000 of adjustment bonds held by the in- ternal improvement land fund. The balance of the revenue bonds. $61,000, will be re- deemed from the revenues of the current fis- cal year. Tne internal improvement land fund is practically a sinking fund for the re- demption of the railroad adjustment bonds. That fund now holds securities to the amount of $1,528,027. The balance of lands belonging to this fund will, wheu sold, add mor.j than a million dollars to this accumulation and thus reduce the state debt without taxation to less than $1,500,000. EDUCATION. Over SG.000.000 Expended for Schools in Two Years. The superintendent of public instruction reports that "in all departments of our edu- cational system there has been uninter- rupted prosperity." He, however, no -s •ume defects which detract from its harmon- ious workincr, and recommends in that behalf such remedial legislation as will secure its more perfect organization. I would es- pecially call attention to bis recommendation that the common scho< 1 organization be '0'ianged from the district to tho township plan. The advantages of this change are succinctly set forth in the superintendent's re- port, and in his conclusions I cordially cm- cur. His suggestion, also, that the s;hooi district or township furnish text, books free to all pupil* is in the line of the policy of the state that our common schools shall be made "free schools." in the inlet signification of the term. From a table m the superintend- ent's report, "showing the general distribu- tion of tho expense of instruction." it ap- pears that with a much higher rate of local taxation the country districts of tho state ex- pend less per scholar than those in the cities and towns, notwithstanding the children in the latter receive over a third longer term of instruction each year. These facts prove that the property of the country is bearing an inequitable burden of taxation for educa- tional purposes. When we are reminded' too, that "the state is aiding by direct tax ail other departments of education, but is giving di- rectly no such aid to the common schools" (the present 1 mill tax being simplr a com- pulsory local tax), the thought is suggested that we are neglecting the great source of education for the people. Tiie superintend- ent's recommendation in this connection that ! a special tax of 1 mill be levied for the benefit of the common schools of the state, to be added to the present apportionment from tho income of the permanent fund, is commended to your favorable consideration. The theory of our system is that the greatest possible facility for an education shall be of ferea every child In the state. The great burdens society bears arc the outgrowth of ignorance and the vices with which it is asso- ciated, and for their relief preventative influ- ence which education provides, are surely more effective than the curative measures furnished by our reformatory anil penal in- stitutions. The education of tho masses is limited to the instruction received in the com in on schools. Comparatively few reach the high schools or the university. it is the first duty of the state, therefore, and eon- ducive to its highest interest, to foster and develop our system of common schools. They are the schools) of tbe people, and tho burden of their support should tie borne by all the people equally, or as nearly so as prac- ticable. There has been expended for the support of schools for the past two years 86,122.077, _.s follows: 1885. 1886. For common schools. . ..S2.020.S2l $3,198,815 For state university _ 69,385 79.156 For high schools 23,000 23,000 For normal schools 48,000 48.000 For teachers' institutes. 6,000 0,000 Total S2,7t'7,100 83.354,971 The enrollment in t'he public schools was 225.215 in 1385 aad 243.059 in 1886. 'I lie state university bad 310 students in 1S85 and 406 in 1886. Under tho able admin- istration of President Northrop the univer- sity is making substantial progress in all re- spects. Its efficiency is, however, somewhat impaired by the lade of buildings required in some of its departments. The wants of the institution in this respect are fully set forth In tbe report of the board of regents. Addi- tional appropriations to tbe amount of $l.r>u,- 000 are required to provide structures needed, and the regents make an earnest appeal to your body tor that sum. It must be tho pol- icy of the state to make her university a complete institution, ttnd one that will com- pare with tbe best of its class in tbe country. It cannot reach the rank of those after which it is modeled unless thoroughly equipped in all its parts. The legislature has heretofore responded promptly to the wants of tbe uni- versity and I do not doubt it will do so in the present case. It is the judgment of the re- gents, as expressed to me. that tho appropri- ation might be distributed over a period of three years, or $50,000 per annum, without embarrassment to the university. There was expended for new buildings during the past year the sum of $38,000. For current expenses $40,000 per annum will be required lor the ensuing two years. The high schools of the state have increased to 59 and their enrollment to 3.195. In the character of their work and results accom- : plished these schools have made much pro- gress and give ample promise for the future. The normal schools have increased their en- rollment until the capacity of the Mankato and St. Cloud buildings has become insuffi- cient for the accommodation of the pupils in- attendance, and appropriations are asked for their enlargement. Tne requirements of the three schools, in addition to the annual appropriations for their support, as reported by the board, are as follows: Man- St. Winona. kato. Cloud. Addition to buildings $50,000 $40,000 Repairs $4,000 1.500 Purchase of lots 5,000 Improving grounds 5,000 Furniture, apparatus, etc 500 2,700 Annual increase for current expei s-*s . . 2,000 5,000 2,000 Deficiency on lades' home 3,000 Totals , $6.(00 $67,000 $47,700 The Winona school also asks an appropria- tion fof a ladies' home. but. no estimate of its cost is given. The normal schools sustain a < prominent and most important relation to our j educational system, and should command in j "the future, as in the past, the fostering care | of the state. Their necessities increase with the development of tbe common wraith, and their requirements should receive such lib- eral consideration as is bestowed upon all our state institutions. Expenditures for permanent improvements and repairs were at St. Cloud $21,500.35 and at Winona $1,480.08. The enrollment was: mWtam 1885 1886 Winona 516 576 Mankato 577 614 St. Cloud 342 375 Total 1,435 1,565 COKKECllO*\» A*iO CHARITIES. Valuable Information on Charita- ble. Penal and Reformatory Insti- tution*. The report of the board of corrections aud charities contains much valuable information and makes important recommendations re- specting tie charitable, penal and reforma- tory institutions of the state. A perusal of the report will show that most valuable ser- vice has been rendered by the board in its efiorts to improve the methods obtaining in the management of county jails, poor houses and reformatories, and that our state insti- tution- as well have received much benefit j I from the advisory relations it has sustained | towards them. An important service re- cently inaugurated by this board has been the adoption of a unifom system of account- ing by the several state institutions. The tables prepa -ed by the secretary of the board. I as published in the report, show at a glance ! the per capita cost of maintenance of in- • mates in each institution, and a division of such cost among the several items of expense incurred. 1 commend to your considerate attention the review of the work of the board and the recommendations contained in its re- port. STATE PUBLIC SCHOOL. j The Institution Commended to the l.-'tz'fclniui Fostering Cure. Under the provisions of chapter 146, of the i General Laws of 1885, which provides for the : establishing and conducting of a state school for neglected and dependent children, there has been established and recently set in op- eration in the city of Owatonna an institution of the chancier contemplated. An eligible site, including 160 acres of laud, was donated by the city, upon which have betn erected ; three cottages, furnishing accommodations ! for about sixty pupils. The school is in : charge of Prof. G. A. Merrill as superinten- dent, a gentleman of peculiar qualifications • for the position, who has bad much experi- ence in the same line of duty in connection with the state public school of Michigan. While the buildings were constructed at a cost within the appropriation of $20,000, that sura was insullieient to furnish them and provide lor current expenses of the Institu- tion until such time when the legislature could make further appropriations for its use. The deficient^ has been supplied, how- ever, by the citizens of Owatonna, wno gen- erously advanced $5,000 for the purpose indi- cated. An early appropriation will be asked for their reimbursement. The report of the commissioners will ad- vise you of all details respecting the location of the institution, the construction and equip- ment of its buildings and the organization of the school. I heartily and confidently com- mend to your fostering care this young insti- tution, believing that in the near future it will demonstrate its great possibilities for good. As a most worthy public charity, as a certain agency of moral reform and as an undoubted measure of public economy, the state public school asks for your generous consideration. The estimate of appropriations required for the immediate future of the institution are as follows: For current expenses balance of fiis- cal year 1887 $7,000 For reimbursement of citizens of Owa- tonna 5,001 For deficiency and incidentals 3,000 For current expenses 1888 12,000 For current expenses 1889 15,000 For new buildings 80,000 REFORM SCHOOL.. Much to Commend in the Manage- ment of the Institution. The reform school had under its care, July 31, 191 inmates. During the two years there were committed to the institution 168, and discharged 90. The expenses of maintenance were $29,457.03 for 1885 and $32,564.02 for 1880. as appears from the report or' the board of managers. Forty thousand dollars for ex- penses and $2,000 for repairs per annum, are the estimates for the next two rears. There is little to criticise and much to commend in the management of this institutlon.lf it maintains in the future a record consistent with its past history it will not fall short of a full ac- complishment of its mission. Additional ac- commodations are required at tills institu- tion, but before appropriations are made for the purpose of increasing them, I would sug- gest the advisability of a change of location. The growth of population in tho vicinity of the school has a detracting: influence upon its inmates, which is likely to develop into a se- rious hindrance to its successful manage- ment. The property the institution occupies has become very valuable and could doubt- less be sold for a sum sufficient to purchase an eligible site elsewhere, and erect th'-reou suitable buildings sufficient for its use for several years to come. DEAF, DUMB A NO BEI*~iD. Figures Ma <: i _ _- the Financial Status of the Institution. The administration of that most beneficent public charity, state institute for defective children, embracing the schools for the deaf and dumb, for tho blind and for the feeble- minded, is characterized, as heretofore, by ability, efficiency and an intjilijrcnt economy. During the past year there have been In at- tendance 157 pupils in .'.he schorl for the deaf and dumb, 36 in that for the blind, and 78 in that for the feeble-minded. For admission to the latter there are now on file 70 applications in excess of accommodations furnished by the present buildings, aud the board of di- rectors therefore ask for an appropriation for their enlargement. The estimates sub- mitted for further appropriations are as fol- lows : For construction and furnishing cus- todial buildings, school for feeble- minded $15,000 For completion of present building, laundry, boiler house, .steam heat- ing, etc 15.000 For purchase or land 2.500 For current expenses, 1888 90,000 For current expenses, 1889 95,000 Total $247,500 Disbursements on account of the institute the past two years were: Additional building, feeble-minded $30,000 00 Additional building,deaf and dumb 10,000 00 Repairs, etc 4,000 00 Current expenses, 1885 63,920 28 Current expenses, 1880 64,667 80 I Total $172,597 58 Full information respecting the organiza- tion, work and requirements of these sch<>ols Is furnished by the reports oi their respective superintendents and the board of directors. A continuance of the liberal policy the saite has heretofore exercised toward this insti- tute 1 believe to be warranted by tho char- acter and the results of its work. INSANE 8i OSriTAES. The Two Hospitals in a Healthy » crii-inry Condition. At the eud of the la-t fiscal year there woro 1,479 patients under treatment in the two t i- 6aue nospitals of me state, 874 at St. Peter and 605 at Eoshester, an increase of 28" sin_e the last biennial report of the trustees. Tiiere was expended for the maintenance of the in- sane $223,905.71 in 1885 and $228,696.97 in 1886, and tor new structures and improve- ments at the two institutions $112,671.41 for the two years. The estimated requirements for tho next biennial period are as follows: St. Peter. Rochester. New doubled detached ward $50,000 Reconstruction of cen- tral building 72,000 Improvements and re- pairs $14,500 7.3C0 Electric lights 5.000 5,000 Current expenses. 1888.. 163,600 131,0+0 Current expenses, 1883. . 163j_00 131,040 Total $347,100 $396!***. The extension contemplated in these esti mates will give a maximum capacity for tne care or 2,000 patients, sufficient to meet probable requirements for three yens to come. It is assumed that the third hospital, the location of whicR is provided for in chap- ter 101 of the general laws of 1885. will be available for occupancy in part by the time this class of population shall exceed the number stated. STATE RISON. The People Want a Reformatory Made of the "Vow One. The capacity of the state prison has been enlarged since 1S85 by the addition of 150 cells, at a cost of $58,500. It now affords accommodation for 600 inmates. The popu- lation of the institution numbered 386 at tho date of the inspectors' report, July 31, 1886. which has been increased to 407 since that : time. The current expenses were $65,018.30 in 1S85. and $05,1£5.32 in 1880. and the earnings , j $43,179.74 and $47,472.60 for the same . ears ' respectively. The net per capita cost of I maintaining the convicts his been re- I duced from $100.79 in 1881 to $42.88 in 1886. ' The estimates of the warden for two years to come are: Expenses. $"3. 000 and $75,0. earnings, $50,000 and $55,000. An inventory of the property of the prison, real and per- sonal, shows a total investment of $639,312.16, not including $53,000 net lots by fire of Janu- ary, 1884. The inspectors report tho "insti- tution out of debt, with no deficiency or special appropriation to be a->ked for." The present capacity of the prison will probably be sufficient to meet the require- ments of the state in this regard until acconi- I moda; o is are provided in the second prison j contemplated by chapter 157 of the genera I laws or 1885. I believe it to be the sentiment of the people { of the state that the new prison should bear j the character of a reformatory, rather than of a prison proper. A large proportion of tho inmates of our prison are young men ' sentenced for their first offense and serving! short tonus. They do not belong to the I j criminal c. asses. They are not wedded to : i evil ways, and are susceptible to influences ; j that would win them back to an honest course ' of life. Their association with professionals j and incorrigiblos in prison, and the stigma | that follows them when discharged, influence • i for evil their after life. If committed to a ! reformatory, where their surroundings would ; j suggest a purpose to reform as well as to I j punish them, and where their term of j -THE ST. FATJL DAILY GLOBE, THURRDAT MORNING, JANUARY 6, 1887.-TWELVE PA13E& service would be made dependent upon their good conduct and manifest disposition to , abandon evil ways, it would stimulate the , better instincts of their nature, and they ; would go forth again among their fellowmen, i hopeful and determined, rather than despair- ing and reckless. An adoption of this policy would involve | such modifications in the penal ode as would j permit indeterminate sentences, aud provide j for conditional discharges from the institu- tion. It has been tried in other states with most gratifying results. SOLDIERS'* HOME. An Obligation th State Incurred in Sending Her sons to War. The Minnesota department of the Grand Army of the Republic at its last encampment appointed a committee to present to your body the subject of the establishment of a home for "disabled, indigent veteians resid- ing in the state," and of temporary provision for the relief of such veterans as might not wish to become occupants of a soldiers' home. j I desire to supplement the appeal of that , committee by tho expression of an earnest I hope that the necessary appropriation will be made by your body to carry out the objects specified. There is no obligation more sacred or binding upon tbe people ot this country thau that ample provision should be made for the care and comfort in their declining years of the veterans of the late war. who from dis- ability or misfortune become needv or de- pendent. The adjutant general in his report cites eases of disabled soldiers who are now cared lor in some of our county poor houses. This is a discredit to the honor and patriotism of Minnesota. It is unworthy of the proud record these veterans made for our state dur- ing the war. The Grand Army of the Repub- lic asks not for a charity for their comrades. but rather for the discbarge of an Obligation the state incurred when sho sent her sons to the front to risk their all iu defense of the republic. Their efforts and sacrifices secured to the country that peace and prosperity which is the present heritage of us all, and the obligation is ours that in their last days they may be made to realize iu fullest meas- ure that their services are remembered with gratitude by their countrymen. The homes provided by the general government are al- ready overcrowded, and many of the states have established soldiers' homes or otherwise made provision for their disabled veterans. Minnesota should not be laggard in the per- formance of so grave a duty. With a view of aiding you in the consideration of this sub- ject, I have obtained from several of the states such printed matter as could be sup- plied relating to the establishment and man- agement of their soldiers' homes, which is herewith transmitted for your information. The condition of the state finances may not warrant the purchase of grounds and the erection of buildings at the present time, but (here should be no delay in provision for temporary aid. Our experience in the case of soldiers' orphans furnishes a hint of the means by which her funds may be applied to furnish immediate and sufficient relief with f_»a>ast possible waste in administration. PURE.IC HEAETH. Pertinent Remarks Upon Cholera and fleuro»*~~neuinonia. Tho functions of the state and local boards of health were materially enlarged and their efficiency correspondingly increased by the legislation of 1885 respecting the control of infectious diseases of animals, the regula lion of offensive trades, the supervision of sources of water supply, and the act reorgan- izing and defining the duties of local boards. The state board have now effected a very thorough sanitary organization throughout the state, and through its efficient exeevtiue officers, Dr. C. N. Hewitt, keeps a watchful eye upon every township. "through the agency of the 1,060 local boards, prompt in- formation is received of the presence of any epidemic or infectious disease in any quarter among men or animals, and equally prompt measures are applied for its isolation and suppression. The value and importance of such au organization has been repeatedly demonstrated in the successful management by tbe board through its agency of several outbreaks of small-pox and diphtheria in widely separated districts, and of a particu- larly aggravated outbreak of glanders in horses in 1885. Tha board has adopted elaborate precau- tionary measures to protect the herds of tho state against pleuro-pneumonia, which has recently developed to an alarming extent among cattle in states to the south and east of us. The danger of a spread of the infec- tion to Minnesota is regarded as remote, but in the event of its appearance here most en- ergetic measures for its quarantine and ex- tirpation have been prepared. Doubtless tho most valuable service per- formed by our boards of health is in th • line of preventive work. They seek, by the adop- tion of a thorough system '..;' sanitation in our cities and towns, a careful scrutiny of sources of water supply and their protection from pollution, the imposition of proper regulations and restraints upon offensive trades and employments, and kindred meas- ures, to preserve the public health by the prevention of disease. The value of this character of work can not be measured by results, but its benefits are being unconsci- ously realized by every inhabitant of this state. A careful collation of the vital statistics of the state would prove of great value to our boards of health as well as the general public. As now collected they are practically worth- less for any purpose, as they bear no pie- tense of accuracy whatever. I would, there- fore, renew my recommendation ma Ie to your predecessors, that the collection of j such statistics be placed by law in charge of the state board of health. i As the danger of the appearance of cholera iu this country has not wholly passed, I recommend a renewal ol the contingent ap- propriation made in 1885, to meet expenses arising from such an emergency. the recommendation of the state board of health respecting amendments to the statutes will doubtless receive your early examinatiou and approval. PUBLIC EXAMINER. A Word of Commendation for His i.ui-id Report. I especially commend to your attention the report of tue publl? e.vamin -r. His lu- id ex- position of the detects in cur svstera >f ad i ministering the pub'ii revmu s should com- i I mand thoughtful study, with a view of a thorough revision of the methods new in ! use. His suggestions and recommendations I are too voluminous l />• recapitulation here. 1 desire, however, to call your attention especially, as 1 have tbat of your predeces- I sors, to the loo<e. inconsistent and insecure methods which prevail respecting the receipt and disbursement of the public funds by county officials. The receipts into tne county- treasuries of the state for the year ending February 1886, were in excess of $9,000,000. The present system provides no checks whatever upon county treasurers for a ver- ! Ification of their transactions covering this j vast sum. All vouchers and entries pertain- I in„r to the receipt of these millions of the people's money are practically within the I control of the treasurer alone. One would . suppose that a statement of this character would startle the taxpayers of the state, but j it has been repeated in this form and by the ! public examiner from year to year, and re- ceived no heed. This state of things is accountable for tbo occasional defalcations of count- treasurers reported from time to time, and is a standing temptation to their frequent recurrence. The evident remedy is suggested by the examiner, that "all re- ' ceipts tor money should originate in the I auditor's office," thus providing an accurate and effective check upou all transactions of the treasurer. i venture to express the hope that this session will not close without legis- lation necessary to effect this rcfo.-m. The recent rapid development of the state ] and the cjrresponding number of moneyed ! corporations, over which the examiner exer- ! ! cises supervision under the law, has greatly j added to the duties of his office. The work i he must now perform in connection with the \ accounts of county officers has increased j threefold since the office was established iu i 1878. Our continued growth must constantly 1 add to the labor mposed upon him. He I already finds it a ph-sical impossibility to ; comply with the requirements of the law re^ i ulatiug his duties, and asks for an increase 1 in his clerical assistance. It would be diffi- j j cult to exaggerate the importance of this j service to the public interests, and it would 1 be a most mistaken economy to limit the ex : pens;- of its maintenan etna manner to im- pair its thorough efficiency. THE MILITIA. Status of the Citizen oldiory of the North Star State. The Minnesota National Guard, as now con- stituted, consists of two regiments of in- i fantry, one battery of artillery and a troop of I cavalry, representing a total strength of j 1,299 officers and men. There have also been J i organized at different points in the state I reserve companies of infantry to the number of seven, to which the state ha-« furnished arms and equipments. The National Guard is fairly well equipped and has attained a satisfactory degree of proficieucy in a knowl- edge of the military art. Great credit is due j 1 the officers and men for the time and atten- j tion they have given to their duties as citizen soldiers. They have shown an appreci- ation of the recognition given them by the1 state, and tully earned the encouragement and ' cordial support of our citizens in the main- tenance of their organization. Some further recognition and additional a.d in this behalf i will be asked of this legislature, which I ttiink | is warranted by tne past service and promise of future usefulness of the guard. The ad- jutant general's report makes some sugges- ts°°s and recommendations In this regard j which I commend to your favor. An interesting:, feature of the adjutant general's report is an exhibit of the work | ot that department In the prosecution of sol j diers claims for pension. During the past 1 t\!iey_ara ** has prosecuted 1.572 claims of I this character, secured the allowance of 849, ! representing a monthly pension of $7,113.43 and arrears of pension of $130,969,47, without j the cost of a dollar to the claimants. As an j agency through which our disabled veterans j may secure without cost recognition of their | rights from the general -government, the ad ) jutant general's office renders invaluable ■ service. TOR INKY GENERAL. Important Recommendations as to * mending tine Statutes. The attorney general makes several im- portant recommendations respecting amend- ments to existing statutes. I would particu- lar! »call your attention to his reference to section 15, title 1, of chanter 34 of the gen- eral statutes,and lo a recent decision of the su- preme court construing the same.This section relates to the mode and manner by which a railroad company may acquire its riirht of way through lands belonging to the state. In the case of the Northern Pacific Railway Company vs. The University of Minnesota, it was held oy the oourt that town lots belong- ing to or held In trust for the state univer- sity, but n -t set apart or occupied for public purposes, might be acquired by condemna- tion proceedings as in tbe case of lauds of private persons or corporations. In this connection the attorney general remarks: "In view of the fact that the property of the university is the property of the state, and consequently could not be taken without ex- press legislative authority, and in view of the fact that in the clause found in section 15 supra, there is nothing limiting the right to take the class of property referred to, to property not devoted to a public use. tiis decision would seem to place all the lands of the state, however occupied, at the mercy of any railroad enterprise passing near the same." This statement of the attorney gen- eral will be juftfeient to indicate to you the importance of so amending the statute that it may by explicit language, be lim.ted to tho ; lands granted by congress to the state to en- do.v tho university, for the benefit of schools. for purposes of internal improvement and lands of that character. With the object of forcing the old land grant railroad companies, whose roads have been sold, but which kept up t.ieir organiza- tions for the sole purpose of holding their lauds exempt from taxation, to dispose of such lands and thus place them in the tax lists, the attorney general commence. 1 pro- ceedings against five of these companies in the supreme court to forfeit their chatters. In two of these cases such a conveyance of the lands was made by agreement, as de- stroyed their immunity from taxation. One case was decided adversely to the state, but the others have -very recently been adjudged in its favor. This action will result in large additions to the tax lists of several of the counties of the state and in a more equitable distribution of the burdens of taxation. The attorney general iis^ successfully prosecuted a claim for an increase of taxes due from the Northern Pacific Railway company, which under the judgment of the court will add (40,154.-9 to the revenues of the slate tor tbe current year. In all these proceedings the attorney general has manifested that industry, energy and ability that has peculiarly signal- ized the administration of his department throughout the term of his incumbency of the office. STATE DAIRY <'G~*_ l-ISSIOX. The Introduction off Olemarcrarinc Seriously Checked. The dairy interests of the state were at one time threatened with irreparable injury by the competition of oleaglneous products which were being generally introduced into our markets. As a measure of protection to lids important and rapid!) -growing industry of our people, the legislature of 18S5 enacted a law prohibiting "the sale or manufacture of unhealthy or adulterated dairy products." A commissioner and assistant authorized by tho law were appointed to Inforce its provisions: Thd very interesting report of the commis- sioner will advise you of his proceedings and experience in the discbarge of his duties. As was expected, he encountered the energetic opposition of manufacturers and dealers in the fraudulent product, who attacked the law in the courts and by every possible device sought to defeat its execution. The commis- sioner and his able assistant, however, were indefatigable and persistent, and as a result of their efforts the base fabrications sold as pure dairy products are substantially expelled from the state. It is estimated that the im- ports of oleomargarine for the pa«t year have not exceeded 300,000 pounds, while for the year preceding it was fully 4.000.000 pounds: and a3 a consequence the genuine product of the dairy has sold at front 3 to 5 cents per pound better prices. The public has been the victim of various impositions practiced in different departments of its industry, but I think it will be admitted that the Ingenuity of d epraved human genius has culminated in the production of oleomargarine and its kin- dred abominations. VARIOtS "HATTERS. HISTORICAL SOCIETY. The report oi' the secretary of the State Historical society show for the organization a gratifying condition of prosperity, its library now numbers 25,173 volumes, and its collection of historical and archaeological relics have received large and valuable ac- cesions during tne pus: two years. The in- teresting details of the report will repay perusal. FISH COMMISSION. The fish commission have distributed 22,- 813,147 fish and 14,100.000 egus in the waters Of the state during the past two years.' These include the most desirable species of food fishes adapted to our lakes and streams. The work of the commission has been prosecuted intelligently, and, as indicated by its report, with results of a highly satisfactory charac- ter. STEAM BOILER INSPECTION*. The report of the board of inspectors of steam boilers and steam vessels, herewith transmitted, exhibits as a result of Its work since the passage of the law creating the hoard, the inspection of 70 steam vessels and 3.889 steam boilers, of which latter 34 were condemned and 315 ordered to be repaired; 893 chief engineer licenses were issued, 1.487 assistant and 3,355 special. Hut one boiler explosion is reported, resulting iu tho lo<s of one life. The average loss of life from such cause prior to the passa/jeof the law is stated by the report to have been eight, thus clearly demonstrating the utility of the service. Tho law needs some amendment, the character of wiiieli will be suggested by the inspectors in a future communication. INSURANCE STATISTICS. The report of the insurance commissioner gives valuable information, and contains man? practical suggestions respecting the insurance business transacted in tbe state. Its aggi orate in lss-; was: Risks written, $203,S29,384; premiums received, $2,770,318.19; losses paid, $1,308,387.30. The companies paid iu taxes and f ies to the state $04,705.76 in 1S85, and $75,089.57 in 1886. LOOS AND LUMBER. The several surveyors general report the following statistics respecting the lumber in- terests of the state: Feet Logs Scaled. 1885. ISSC. First district 300.02 '.380 224.423.390 Second district 316,262,210 248.127,9*0 Fifth district 47,118,270 70.961.356 Seventh district 38.120,540 Totals 663,403,860 581.036,266 Feet Lumber Manu- • factured. 1885. 1886. First district 149.370,370 129.955.960 Second district 378.100,690 822,280,820 Fifth district 128,520,000 171.750,000 Totals 650.051.060. 623,976, 7S0 HAIL, ft""" FIFE II ESS Relief for Those Whose Crops Were Destroyed. On the 24th dav of July, 1S86. a hail storm of great violence passed through Marshall county, totally destroying the crops and greatly injuring much other property, over an area ol' man) square miles, aud thereby reducing almost to destitution about two hundred families. The sufferers appealed to me for aid through the county authorities. Tbere was no fund at my command from which relief could be afforded in such cas.es, but a conference with the mayors of St. Paul and Minneapolis with reference to the emer- gency resulted in the advance of §5,000 from each of the two cities for the purpose of such relief. A committee was sent to the deso- lated district to ascertain and report resnect- ing the condition and necessities of each Individual victim of the storm, and upon basis of that report supplies of teed, bread- ! stuffs and provisions were purchased and ] distributed through a local committee accord- ing to the necessities of eacn case. Feed for stock was furnished to enable parties to plow so much of their land as would probably grow crops sufficient for their support an- other year, and provisions given each family in such limited quantities as seemed to be absolutely required. But for this timely aid many of these sufferers would have been compelled to abandon their homes. Of the $10,000 advanced as indicated I nave expended $9,400.23, as appears in de- ! tail in statement herewith submitted. Still fur. her provision must be made for these peop e to carry them along until they can j realize upon another crop. They will require seed for the land the- have plowed, and pro- visions for the subsistence of their families. I recommend an appropriation sufficient to , supply these wants and to reimburse the cities I of St. Paul and Minneapolis for the amount I advanced as above stated. I was also appealed to for aid at a later date j by citizens of Swift and Polk counties, who ■ suffered from a similar visitation. My re- sponse was an assurance that I would pre- sent the matter to this legislature, with a recommendation that their necessities receive such favorable consideration :;b mar bo ac- corded in the case of the Marshall county sufferers. The facts in these cases as they will bo presented to you will appeal strongly to your sympathy, and I ask for them your prompt consideration, aud such generous ac- tion in the way of relief for these stricken people as their undoubted necessities should command. WOlUilPS EXPOSITION. The Part """ innesota Took in the Great Mew Orleans show. I transmit herewith acorn nuuication from Oliver Globs, Jr., state commissioner at the World's Exposition In 1885. respecting his re- port ol' our state collective and collateral competitive exhibits in the exposition. As is generally knowu, Minnesota presented a most complete and comprehensive collective exhibit of her products, arts, industries and resources at the exposition, and in the com- petitive departments received the highest awards for her display of dairy products (in- cluding the grand sweepstakes for the best butter made in the world), wheat, corn. Hour, fruits, seeds, ameer cane sugar, poultry, <»tc., and "the grand diploma of honor'* for her educational exhibit. The commissioner was instructed to make a report iu lull detail of our exhibits for publication. Tne main por- tion of his report was ready months ago. hut its completion has been delayed by causes which he fully explains. In the meantime the commissioner has-removed from the state, but is still ready to finish his work when tho lacking material is supplied. As the commissioner remarks, "the effort to represent Minnesota at the only world's exposition in which she ever took a part was too great, too successful and too cost to have no enduring record made of it." Every citizen is proud of tne suc- cesses aud the distinction won by Minnesota, and desires that she should realize to the ut- most their possible benefits. This may not be done if a record thereof is not preserved. I would therefore recommend an appropria- tion of $1.1)00, to be expended under the di- rection of the governor of tho state, to meet such expense as may be incurred by the com- missioner iu completing and properly illus- trating bis report, and that its publication bo ordered in the usual way. Vouchers for a« expenditure made in the collection and main- tenance of the exhibit are on bio in the ollice of the state auditor. V I'CIAb TsT_o:v. AVtay the I »«_■'«• hiiim Was Not Con- vened in 1S8G. An extra session of the last legislature was urged with considerable pressure for three main purposes: to amend the laws for the regulation of railroads and grain inspection, to amend the tax laws, and to make a legisla- tive apportionment. Some were inclined to see in the existence of three such supposed occasions for immediate legislation an argu- ment for a return to annual sessions. Iii resard to the railroad and warehouse laws. I have no doubt that tho public judg- ment as to the amendments necessary is more : harmonious and more just than it could nave i been a year ago, and that no considerable harm has come lion; the delay. The supposed occasion for an extra session to amend the tax laws was a decision rendered by the supreme court in the case of Chauncey vs. Wass, according to which the payment of taxes upon real euate and the possession of a treasurer's receipt therefor would not save the owner's title in case the property had | been improperly advertised and sold as delin- I quent, unless the fact of such payment were shown before the so-called equity had become barred by time. About the same time it oc- casioned general surprise to learn that a pro- vision of law requiring personal notice of the expiration of the time of redemption to bo given by county auditors to owners of sup- posed delinquent real estate sold for taxes, had been repealed by a section of a subse- quent statute. It thus appeared that a citizen who had discharged every obligation to the state in return for its protection to his person and bis property, and who felt himself secure in the possession of a written acknowledgement of the state's agent that he had paid his does, ! might yet be made bankrupt aud homeless | through the blunder of an official agent of the j state, under the statutes of the state as con. j strued by the highest state court. It would , bo hard to conceive a clearer case of I legalized robbery than the operation | of the law as construed by the court. i It is impossible to presume that the legisla ! ture intended it should have any such effect, j and it is equally impossible to assume that ! the forbearance of human nature will ac ! quiesce lu its enforcement. If an extra ses- sion had been necessary to save one single j citizen from the loss of Ins rights through ; these surprising del cuts or errors.it wouldhure Le a called. But upon all forfeitures already attached legislation would have been inopera- tive, and it was clear that the publicity given through tho press and by excited public cum- ment to the whole subject, to tbe danger of ruin in which every man might unwittingly stand and to the means by which be could ascertain the fact and avert loss, would pre '. vent the occurrence of anv new forfeiture ' through surprise or mistake. j The- supposed repeal of the provision for i personal notice of the expiration ot the re ; demption period has since been declared 111 j valid by the supreme court, being in violation ot the section of the constitution which for- bids that any law shall contain more than one subject, which must be expressed in its title. i (I may i em ark that much time has been lost | in recent sessions by the introduction of bills i with titles defective in this respect, which ■ are often only corrected by recalling the bills • from the executive for that purpose.) The decision In the Wass case has just been [ reaffirmed, by a majority of the court, after ! re-examination, It has thus become your j duty to provide some relief or mitigation, if I any be possible, of the injustice which may \ follow from this hard construction, and to so ; amend the tax law that actual, seasonable i payment of a tax shall at all times be a valid '■ protection against any claim t > real estate ! bused upon its alleged non-pay m cut. You | should also inquire whether the present pro- vision for notice of the expiration of the re- I demption is sufficient. The state census showed a population of [ 1,117. The increase took place mainly in | the uoitiern part of the state and in the cit- J ies of St. Paul and Minneapolis. The purpose I of an enumeration by the state is plainly to i ascertain whether a reapportionment of leg 1 islative representation is necessary according to the requirement of the constitution that i representation shall be apportioned equally I throughout the different sections of the state ! in proportion to the population thereof, and i to iurnish a guide for a proper aportionment ; if one be necessary. | The census shows beyond question that • representation is no longer proportioned to i population, and it will be umong your plain i est duties to readjust the representation to ! conform to the constitution. I do uot doubt your perfect willingness to discharge that constitutional obligation, but you may prop- erly be reminded that your assumed unwill- ingness to meet the difficulties and inconven- iences of a reapportionment was strongly uryed upon me as a reason for calling to- gether your predecessors for the purpose. If similar circumstances should exist in i 1895, as they probably will, I hope your pres | ent action will confirm the confidence of all i in that day, that the Minnesota legislature f will perform its duty, uninfluenced by per | sonal consideration. This duty being per- forin* d it will be seen that, so far as the reasons urged for a session in 1886 are con- cerned, biennial sessions sufficiently answer ait purposes. -L'NKECIESSAKT" < FFICEs. Published Agricultural Statistics Published Agricultural Statistics Not V. ortli Their Cos, . Frequent examination is necessary to pre- vent the retention of offices which have ; ceased to be necessary or useful. I judge the 1 office of state land agent to be now such an j one. It seem.; to me, also, that the prepara ; tion and distribution of authoritative docu- ments, books or circulars, regarding the ad i vantages of Minnesota, hitherto done by a | board of immigration and a secretary, can . now be more properly and economically . placed iu charge of the secret of state. I Referring to the requirement that the state j shall make an enumeration of its inhabitants ! again in 1895, and to the fact that the United ! States will uov pay one-half the expense of a I census taken at that time, if it contain the ' same matter taken in the same manner as the ' federal census, I recommend to your consid- eration the suspension of the annual < o!!ec ; tion and publication of agricultural statist es, • with the view to make in 1895 a complete ■ census which will furnish reliable means for I comparison, in all respects, witb that of the | United States in 1890. Our published statis > tics are becoming- less and less trustworthy. I doubt if they are now worth their cost. DRAM AGE. The Action of the Ited River Com- mission Commended. A public meeting held at Crookston on the 8th of last month in tho interest of the drain- age of the Red river valley, requested me by resolution to "call your attention to the ur : gent need of careful and judicious legislation j upon the subject of drainage; also upon the justice and necessity of a very liberal appro- priation from the state to open up the ob i structed river channels of this (that) section, and of the wisdom of the state lendiug her credit to forward the scheme." W.ille I I willingly comply with this request to the ex- I I I toot of commending the subject to your con- I sideration, I am p evented fiom making the ! j full recommendations desired by reason of the I inhibitions of the constitution. Section 10 of I article 9 of the constitution provides that • "the credit of the state shall never be given 1 or loaned in aid of any individual, association i or corporation," and section 5 of the same • article prohibits the state from contracting ! "any debts for works of internal improve ' ment." or becoming "a partv in carrying on l such works except in cases when grants of ; i land or other property shall have been made ! to the state specially dedicated by the grant I to specific purposes," etc. While it seems to be clear, therefore, that tho constitution stands in the war of such state aid to this project as its promoters seek, there are con- siderations that strongly commend it to publie I favor and to such indorsement by the state as mar be constitutionally given. Careful | surveys and estimates show that a moderate I expenditure made in opening and deepening | ' the natural water courses of the Red river • j vall«v. will not only reclaim and make valu- I able large areas which are now swamps, but 1 will give a system of natural drainage to the ■ lands of a lar. e portion of tho valley i which are now Lable in wet seasons to be I rendered almost useless for cultiva- tion. Included in this area. are large tracts [oflaudwbicn have been conveyed to the ! state by the general government as swamp ! lauds, given to th« state for the very purpose I us specified in the cougressioaal srrunt itself of providing the means for taeir drainage. Tbe state, however, instead of devoting these lands to that purpose, has granted thein as a I gratuity to corporations to encourage t lie building of railroads in sections of the state remote from where they are located, if these lands were now available for the purpose for which they were g -anted by congress, the means would be at uand for the prosecution of the contemplated work. The st ite has diverted tbem to otner purposes aud has re- ceive 1 benefit from them through the aid t iey have given iu the development of otu»r portion of the stale. It is this which gives an appearance of equit^ to the claim tbo valley or' the red river presents in this matter. The appropriation of a portion of the inter- I nal improvement fuud which Is biennially distributed to aid in the construction of roads aud bridges could very properly be devoted to drainage purposes as herein contemplated. \V STE IC X .» 1 I I : i. WAYS. A matter Which materially Con- cern!* .Minnesota's material Inter- ests. The report of the "state commission for tho improvement of the Mississippi river" con- tains much matter of practical interest to the people of tne state. The improvement of our. Western waterways is a subject that especi- ally concerns the material interests of Minne- sota, and should therefore receive such con- sideration at your hands as may promise to prove a means to that end. The head of navigation of the Mississippi river, and prac- tically of the great lake system, as well as of the lied River of the North, are within our borders. A large proportion of our products finds its war to market through the two lirst- named of these waterways, and the cost of railroad transportation upon the balance is greatly lessened by the competition of these water routes in the carrying trade. The same is the case with our imports of heavy merchandise, coal, etc. The low prices pre- vailing for our agricultural products matte the question of the cost of their transporta- tion to market au till important one at the present time. Therein largely lies the solu- tion of the problem with which our pro- ducers are now wrestling, whether they eau successfully meet the com- petition of cheap labor elsewhere, in tho growing of food products for the world's consumption. The moderate ex- penditure made by tiie government in recent years tor tho aid of navigation upon our rivers and the lako has resulted in more sub- stantial benefit to the internal commerce of the country than like expenditure elsewhere upon its inland waterways. Such results warrant a demand upon the government for a carrying out of tae comprehensive srstem under which the work has thus for been prosecuted. The utility of the reservoir system at the sources of the Mississippi river has boen practically demonstiated during the past sea- son of exceptional dryness. From June I until the close of navigation these reservoirs were constantly drawn upon, and for three months of the time to an extent that gave a foot higher water at St. Paul than would otherwise have been the case, as estimated by the United States engineer in charge, thus securing a good stage oi water for tbe largest steamers throughout the season of naviga- tion. The work for the improvement of the channel of the upper Mls&issppi is embar- rassed on account or the meager appropria- tions for the purpose, but most substantial benefit has accrued from the expenditure already ma le. Tho wonderful and perhaps unprecedented growth of tbo commerce ot Duluth, and the rapid development of the mineral resources of our territor* bordering on the lake, pre- sent in commanding term tbe im >ortanccand necessity of the improvement of oar harbors ou Lake Superior and the enlargement of the Sault Ste. Marie canal. A full presentation of the facts illustrating the influence and ef- fect of these waterways in the development of our resources would doubtless prove a rev- elation even to many of our own people. Ac- curate statistics of tbe commerce of our riv- ers an. I lake ports, collected and published in form lor genera) distribution, would prove useful in demonstrating the utility of the im- provements desired. I would therefore commend that the rivor commission be au- thorized to incur the expense necessary for the collection of such statistics, the same to be reported annually to tbe governor. A proper expression of th s legislature ad- dressed to congress respecting needed appro- priations for our waterways, would doubtless aid our representatives in that boay in their efforts to secure the recognition demanded. it AIL WAYS AMI WAREHOUSES. Results Obtained and Suggestions us to the I'ntnre. In response to a manifest demand of the public interest and tbe popular vi.l, the legis- lature of 1885 inaugurated a now policy of state control of railway and warehouse man- agement. The laws enacted for the super- vision and regulation of these interests have been on trial the past two years, aud the re- sults accomplished thereunder are submitted to you b. tbo board of commissioners, who were specially charged with their execution. The work of the commission has been laborious, difficult, in many of its details ex- tremely delicate, but in all respects most efficient; showing more substantial results than could reasonably nave been expected from tbe administration of laws necessarily imperlect, inasmuch as they were largely ex- perimental. An early noted defect iu the law for "the regulation of rai road companies." was the limited power vested in the commis- sion. Tois often proved an embarrassment, but the sagacity of the board largely obviated the effect. The. could "advise," "request," and in exceptional c. s -s promulgate : their judgment in "an order" to, the , railroad companies, but compliance, as a rule, could be obtained only by th« voluntary- action of the corporations themselves It Is therefore cause for congratulation that so much has been realized in the way of relief. Briefly outlined there has been secured under | this law, ttiio igb the agency of tbe com mis- I sion, a free and open market with the right of i unrestricted shipment for grain on every line of railway in the state except one; a mate- rial reduction on all tho roads of rates charged for the transportation of grain, live stock, lumber, wood aud general farm pro- ducts, amounting in the aggregate to over one million dollars per annum; a general re- duction of ail passenger tariffs to a maximum ! charge of 3 cents per mile, aud a virtual abo- | lition of the ojious transit system, by an , elimination of its objectionable and burden- I some features. j These results have been reached through i the patient, persistent and often prolonged | efforts of the commission, Involving an ex- i haustive investigation of the subject of rail- way transportation n its many phases and to ' its remotest detail, and elaborate illustration by comparison of its relative cost as between different compauies under varied and diverse conditions. The facts developed by this re- ! search fortified the commission in the presen- j tation of its demands upon the companies, • and secured concessions which otherwise j it would hardly have been pos.ibie to obtain. ; In but one instance have the commission had j to resort to the courts to enforce its demands. ! and in this case the lower court has decided • in favor of the law. The cause is now pend- j ing in h_- supremo court. j Minnesota has now fairly inaugurated a policy re peeling state supervision and con- ! ■ trol of railroad companies which, if suffi- i ciently strengthened, and wisely aud firmly j administered, will lead, I believe, to such sue- I cessful and just adjustment of the relations : that should obtain between these corpora- I tions and the public, as is possible under j separate and independent state action. The ; problem can not, how e.-er. reach a solution entirely satisfactory, until the general gov- ernment shad supplement state action by a federal policy, which shall have in view the determination of questions relatlug to inter- i state commerce. The public sentiment of the country, with marked unanimity, is de- manding of congress legislation to this end. ! It remains to be seen how long adverse in- j fluences shall postpone its enactment. | The commissioners recornmead such ame_d- ' ments and changes in the law as their ox- j perience and investigations have suggested \ are necessary to make it more effective. I j bespeak tor them your hearty Indorsement, , and I earnestly invoke your early action re- ! specting the additional legislation contem- ', plated in the drafts of laws they submit for ! your consideration. ! Clearly in my view, the commissioners ! should be authorized to revise and amend the tariffs of the railroad companies respecting rates charged for transportation of freight and passengers. If upon com plaint, or other- wise, it shall appear to the commission, after • ireful investigation, that suob rates are in any respect "unequal, unjust or unreason- able," it should be authorized to require and coTipel such chan.es as shall make them equal, reasonable and just. There can ba no good ground of objection to this regula- tion upon the part of tbe companies them- selves. Indeed, they should rather wish to see it established, as the process of its *»n- foreement would give opportunity for such vindication of their equitable policy respect- ing the public.as the facts in each case wotrlfl warrant. The excessive and fictitious capitalization of the property of railway corporations is a proper subject for legislative consideration. It is notoriously the practice of these com- panies, after realizing- from tho sale of their bonds money sufficient to build and equip their lines, to issue in addition stock to an equal or greater amount, representing as a rule no value whatever, but appropriated as a gratuity by the syndicate controlling the franchises of the compauy. To give theso false issues of securities real value, dividends must bo earned be the road and paid thereon. Tbe practical effect of this is the perpetra- tion of a fraud upon the public. Rates of transportation must be fixed high enough to realize net earning* sufficient to pay these dividends uftet fixed oaarges are met. As rule, if complaint is made that rates are high and that commodities will not bear cost of transportation, the company responds that it is charging only what is necessary to earn a fair income upon its investment, and perbapi refers to its sworn statements made to tho board of comm ssioners as to the amount of such Investment, which always include, suoh over issue of securities. This practice does not require elaboration to expose its oppres- sive and dishonest character, but it loudly calls for a remedy. Tbe drafts for acts pro- posed bv the commissioners, to prohibit the "issuing; of fa se, fraudulent, and part paid " or unpaid shares of stock of railroad com- panies." and to "re ulate the proceedings of railroad companies desiring to increase their capital stock," will protect the public against a growth of tho evil. The evident romedy.as regards existing corporations, is an adjust- ment of their revenues aud dividends upon the i ads of a fair and libera} estimate of the actual cost or y-gjue Of tfeeir properties. Tuo ineorp.i'aiHH |g|o t|ie fundamental law of tho statu of _\ amendment asserting the full power of the (Hate as to corporate control, is a recommendation of the commis- sioners In which I cordially concur. Though this principle is sustained by the courts it is not wholly admitted by the corporations. As an authority coining from the constitution it would command acquiescence. The labors of the board under tho law for the regulation of -houses and the inspec- tion of {-rain have resulted in the inaugura- tion of a system of state inspection and weighing which has worked most satisfac- torily. The grades established and rules adopted by tho board for the handling of grain have had the effect to remove the cuuse lor much of tho complaint that had existed among farmers and country shippers, of ir- regularities and abuses respecting the dis- position of their property. Minnesota grades of wheat arc now the recognized standard in Eastern and European markets, aud tho in- tegrity of our state inspection commands tho full confidence of the trade. Undoubtedly the adoption of this system has added ap- preciably to the market value of our wheat, and resulted in realizing much more to tho producer than he would have received under the old order of things. The grades and rules of inspection as first established proved so satlsSaatory that any change in them was generally objected to by farmers and dealers at the commencement of the present crop year. Sonic amendments to the law correcting imporlections, widening its scope and extend- Ing the supervision cf tbe commissioners to county elevator**), are recommended by tha board. .'*: '"i The successful results ac&Iered under tho rafiroad and warehouse laws have been so largely due to the ability, industry and apti- tude for their work of the commissioners, that I feel they have earned the thanks of tho people or the state. They have secured con- cessions from the railroad companies greater than nave ever been accorded to any state railroad commission in the country, and they have inaugurated a system of state grain in- spection whiej is being quoted and copied as a model in some of tne older states. There are now in operation 4,'JiO milos of railroad in the state, an increase of 738 miles in two years. Cost per mile, as reported, §35, 744. SI . The earnings of theso roads were as follows: . 1885. 18*6. Gross $22,617,199.71 $25,103,319.3. Net 11,458,662.68 13,0 6J.052.53 Tastes paid to the state 611,743.55 612,515.03 A RES 11912.. The Govoruor B'oints With Pride nt V. bur flax EC ecu Done -Miring Ills lucumbeucy. During the five years It has been my privi- lege to occupy the executive office Minnesota bas experienced a development unprecedented iu her history, and hardly equaled by that of any other community of the country for a like period of time. Her growth In popula- tion has been nearly 60 per cent., and her as- sessed real and personal estate has increased from $271,153,961 in 1881 to $45e=,424,777 in I--;. The industries and business interests of her people have kept pace in their devel- opment with this growth in population and wealth, and tho foundations have been broadened and strengthened for that great- ness of empire which is the abundant prom- ise of our future destiny. A brief reference to the measures and policy that have specially characterized the administration of her pub- lic interests durlngtbis period may not be re- garded out of place in this connection. -jo rapid a growth has necessarily involved largely increased expenditures in tho main- tenance of the several departments of the "*qie government and in the enlargement and support of her state institutions. Extraordi- nary expenditures also have been occasioned by tbe necessity of replacing public struc- tures destroyed by fire, notably the state capitol, the state prison and the first hospital for the insane. Expenditures for permanent public improvements the pa.t five years have exceeded in the aggregate $1,500,000. The interest also upon the railroad adjust- ment bonds which represent our present state debt first became a burden upon tho treasury in 1882. But notwithstanding theso largely increased demands upon the state treasury they have been promptly met and the publio debt considerably reduced without adding ,o the burdens of the people iu the wa*-- of taxation; in fact there has been paid as taxes to the state less than was paid dur- ing either of the two periods of five years lmmedialel f preceding. The average for the five years ending with 1.76 was $472,986.21 per annum, for the five years ending with 1881 $473,878.58 and for the five years ending with 1886 $448,617.97. This.in view of the enormously increased assessed valuation of the state, would further show a largely diminished rate of taxation. The averago rate lor the first period named was 3.28-100 mills. This showing bus been made possible mainly by tbe largely augmented revenues of the state from other sources, especially receipts from railroad and insurance compa- nies. The trust funds have been increased from $6,278,911.72 in 1681 to $i>,601,037.14 In 1886. Theso additions are the proceeds of the sale of land aud pine stumpage belonging to the several funds except $142,806.11, which has been realized as profit on the sale and ex- change of securities held by these funds. Recent investment of theso funds has been in the bonds of tbe state of Tennessee, which have largely increased in value since their purchase, and if sold at the price at which the last purchase was made a further profit of $104,810 would be realized. As an agency in the lino of public reform and retrenchment in public expenses tbe state board of connection and charities was ■ organized in 1882. Its efficiency in this ser- vice bas been shown in tho improved methods adopted through its instrumentality in many o the counties in tbe state, iu tbe adminis- tration of their local institutions and the de- crease in cost of maintaining their charitable and penal dependents. The board has also instituted a uniform system of accounting, under which all expenditures at our state in- stitutions are spread before the public in an intelligible form. The change from annual to biennial elec tions was made in 1833. As a measure in the interest of public economy and reform this change must be regarded as a most salutary one. The present complete sanitary organization cf the state, and its effective measures for the protection of the public health, together with its ample provision for the maiagement and control of diseases among animals, are mainly the results of tbe legislation of 1885, supplemented by the vigorous and efficient action of the state board of health. Xo state is now better equipped than our own to deal with emergencies growing out of epidemics or infectious diseases. As a great pub ic charity and an agency of moral reform the state school for dependent and neglected children, recently opened at Owatonna. will command a place alongside the most worthy institutions of the state. Its work in reclaiming from the contaminating influences of ignorance and vice these inno cent dependents will be felt iu future years in saving to the citizenship of our state thou sands who might otherwise contribute to swell tbo population of her penal institutions. In 1881 the state militia was represented by a few independent companies, scattered, neglected and poorly organized and equipped. From that nucleus has been developed our present effective organization of national guards, as compact, well disciplined and re liable a body of citizen soldiers, in proportion