from this source, from the small sum of $2,900, to at least
$12,000.

In closing their report, the committee think it proper to
refer to a recommendation in the message of the late Execu-
tive, in regard to the collection of the revenue of the State.
Not concurring in the views of the message on this point, the
committee have taken no steps to carry out the recommenda-
tion, and beg leave briefly to give some of the reasons for
this course.

The late Governor recommends the immediate adoption of
the Independent Treasury system by this State and the col-
lection of all taxes only in coin. The Committee think it
only necessary to say, whatever may be the expediency of the
system, under the general Government, there is no analogy
between its position and that of the State of Maryland. The
indirect taxes of the United States are collected primarily
from the capitalists at the commercial centres of the country
where money is abundant. The direct taxes of the State of
Maryland are collected at the county court houses from the in-
dividual farmer, mechanic, and trader, and to exact coin from
the people under these circumstances would be no less than
an oppression. The list of taxes in arrear may afford some
slight proof that if it is hard to collect in paper, it would be
next to impossible to secure coin. The State of Maryland is
besides a large owner of Bank stocks, and to refuse to accept
the paper, which by the votes of her Directors, and the opera-
tion of her laws, she herself issues, would be a policy at least
of doubtful fairness. The effect upon the value of the Bank
stock property of the State by such a course of action it is un-
necessary to enlarge on. The State, as long as she legalizes,
and in effect issues paper money, ought not to refuse the ac-
ceptance of what the people are practically forced to take.

In conclusion, the committee express their hope, that it
may be the fortune of their successors,, at no distant day, to
see the State relieved from the burden of taxation, and her
great system of internal improvements constructed without a
dollar of money, or an acre of land from the General Govern-
ment, contributing to pay the expenses of State, and continu-
ing to diffuse prosperity and material progress, among the
people by whose enterprise and perseverance, they have been
planned and executed.

All which is respectfully submitted,

A. STIRLING, Jr., Chairman.

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