The construction and jurisdiction of the highway are to both be in the hands of the General Government. and these are the hands in which every public and national consideration would require them to be. I have demonstrated the nationality of this work. its practicability. and the nicans in our haiidsfor niakingit. Idonotexpatiateuponitsimportance. When finished it will be the American road to Asia and will turn the Asiatic commerce of Europe through the heart of our America. It will make us the mistress of that trade. rich at home andpowerful abroad. and reviving a line of oriental and almost fabulous cities to stretch across our continentTyres. Sidons.