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Without rank and file upon play day parades, officers would
cut a poor show, and upon the battle field be of no account what-
soever. Upon a proper peace establishment, there would be no
deficiency any where; officers and men would always be in read-
iness to embark in any kind of service.

In my estimation, in order to remedy glaring evils, so long tol-
erated without any successful effort for their removal, everything
connected with our general militia system, proclaims that vital re-
form is demanded—yes, greatly needed—requiring the adoption
of some military arrangement that during the enjoyment of peace
would impart confidence in the bosom of our countrymen, with
the avoidance of extra alarm upon the occurrance of war.

These desirable attainments can only be reached by the crea-
tion of an entire new plan, whose foundation should aim mainly
at instructing our boys in the theory and practice of military sci-
ence.

It is a source of no little gratification to me, that so extensive
is the impression made in favour of such a measure, thought of,
and recommended by the writer two years ago, to behold colleges
and private schools, in imitation of the West Point Academy,
are increasing in number throughout the Union, with distinguish-
ed success. Maryland may be proud that within her own borders
several institutions have recognised military study for our young
men.

I would, therefore, suggest—

1st. That a Military College be established in Maryland, as a
State institution, similar to the United States academy, at
West Point.

2nd. If the first proposition should fail, for want of patronage,
then, in lieu thereof, as the last alternative, compell all
our colleges and endowed academies, chartered rights not
interfering therewith, to introduce therein the study and
practice of military tactics.

3rd. The creation of uniformed, volunteer companies throughout
the State, sanctioned by law—encouraged in every suita-
ble mode—not subject to restrictions of any kind, beyond
those of their own domestic rules and regulations—to be
associated volunteers, uniformed at their own cost, in the
real sense of the word.

4th. As a most valuable provision, during peace, volunteer corps,
not legally to be under the command of any officer higher
in rank than captains of companies.

5th. Ample arrangements made for keeping in commission, offi-
cers of every arm and grade.

6th. Enrolled, district un-uniformed companies, during public
tranquility, to be forever exempt from parades, penalties
or fines of any description.