There is the ultimate source of our dependence not only for peace but for victory in the event of war. And if we would give to this great department every facility for promnoting the pursuits of agriculture in their varied forms to the end that every acre within our domain susceptible of cultivation may be made productive and habitable. if we would nmltiply families and anchor them to the soil. if we would maintain and promote the best guaranty of peace that any nation can enjoy. we should exalt the Agricultural above the Naval Department and multiply plowshares instead of battleships. -Navies are an essential. but an essential only. to the equipiaent of this Republic. When I consider that the millions upon millions of unproductive acres of this country might be brought into cultivation through improved methods and by increasing immigration. and that the populating of their vacant spaces constitutes the highest possible safeguard against all danger to this country. whether that danger comes from foes without or from foes within. I am amazed that we give it less consideration than any other of our great departments. I do not mean to be understood.
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immigration