[Inclosure in No.
162.—Translation.]
Opening of the Staats General,
1880–1881.
address from the throne.
Gentlemen: It is with gratitude that I appear
before you with mention of the prosperity with which the country
continues to be favored.
The birth of a princess has increased the happiness of my house. I have
received with satisfaction, on the occasion of this memorable event,
renewed assurances of the attachment of my people.
The relations of the Netherlands with other powers are most cordial.
There are manifest signs of improvement in the trade and industry of the
country.
Agriculture and the rearing of cattle are flourishing.
The reports concerning the harvest are, in general, very satisfactory.
The pneumonia has nearly disappeared. The State taxes promise a larger
return than the preceding year.
The inevitable augmentation of public expenses makes necessary the
increase of supplies to the State. The construction of commercial roads
continues to be actively prosecuted. New propositions for the
improvement of the canals will be presented to you.
A proposition having in view the advantageous restriction of the labor of
children will be laid before you at this session.
The navy and army continue to acquit themselves in their duty with a zeal
worthy of praise.
Important military measures, having in view the completion of the
national defense, are in way of elaboration.
There will be submitted to your deliberations some projects of law
regarding the national militia and civic guard.
Although the armed resistance may not be completely subdued in Acheen,
the Dutch authority is nevertheless, sufficiently established thereto
admit of preparations by the government to introduce there a regular
administration.
In general, the situation of the Dutch Indies could be called
satisfactory were it not for the devastating maladies in some countries,
not only among the population, but among cattle.
The more marked interest which agriculture and industry bears exerts a
happy influence upon the financial situation of the colony of
Surinam.
Some important projects of law submitted to your examination during your
preceding session, and not completed for want of time, will again claim
your attention.
May the benediction of the Almighty rest upon our united efforts to
contribute to the prosperity of the country.
I declare open this session of the Staats General.
