The act of June 19. 1878. which offers to Canadian vessels free access to our inland waters in aid of wrecked or disabled vessels. has not yet become effective through concurrent action by Canada. The due protection of our citizens of French origin or descent. from claim of military service in the event of their returning to or visiting France. has called forth correspondence which was laid before you at the last session. In the absence of conventional agreement as to naturalization. which is greatly to be desired. this Government sees no occasion to recede from the sound position it has maintained not only with regard to France but as to all counutries with which the United States have not concluded special treaties. Twice within the last year has the imperial household of Germany been visited by death. and I have hastened to express the sorraw of this people. and their appreciation of the lofty character of the late aged Emperor William. and their sympathy with the heroism under suffering of his son. the late Emperor Frederick. I renew my recommendation of two years ago for the passage of a bill for the refunding to certain German steamship lines of the interest upon tonnage dues illegally exacted.
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