XVII

a source of expense to the amount of interest on the sums
advanced to them. I can see no prospect of returns in
the shape of dividends.

The amount invested is not lost, as the value of property
on the lines of these works is enhanced more than the amount
loaned to these Companies, and thereby returned to the Trea-
sury in the increased taxes levied.

The "Baltimore and Potomac Rail Road" is in rapid pro-
gress of construction. Under the provisions of Chap. 310 of
1868, a survey is being made in contemplation of a Railroad
to Point Lookout. It is a reasonable hope that before many
years, this fertile, but isolated section of our State will be
brought in close contact with the trade and commerce of the
large cities, and be thereby rendered more prosperous.

The changed condition of labor has fallen more heavily on
this part of the State, than on the northern and western por-
tions, and the people are comparatively depressed. Let us
look forward to a brighter future for all the tide-water region,
and hope that rich harvests may ripen on the fields, and fire-
sides again be bright that have been made desolate by the
ravages of war.

I congratulate you and the people of the State, on the wise
conclusion you have reached, not to call an extra session of
the Legislature, notwithstanding the earnest efforts of some
to produce such a result. When it is considered, as you have
done, that there has been a session every year since 1863, and
two State Conventions in the mean time; that all necessary
appropriations for the support of the Government and collec-
tion of taxes are provided for the year 1869, every one must
come to the same conclusion you have reached. Too much
legislation, State and National, is one of the great curses
that has afflicted our Country, and chief cause of the many
burthens under which we are now groaning.

I have the honor to be very respectfully,

Your Obt. Servant,
WM. J. LEONARD,

Comptroller,
2*