egistration system, under regulations to be approved by the President,
similar to those which have produced such admirable results in the
navy-yard service.

All of the amendments had for their main object a more efficient and
satisfactory administration of the system of appointments established
by the civil-service law. The results attained show that under their
operation the public service has improved and that the civil-service
system is relieved of many objectionable features which heretofore
subjected it to just criticism and the administrative officers to the
charge of unbusinesslike methods in the conduct of public affairs. It
is believed that the merit system has been greatly strengthened and its
permanence assured. It will be my constant aim in the administration of
government in our new possessions to make fitness, character, and merit
essential to appointment to office, and to give to the capable and
deserving inhabitants preference in appointments.

The 14th of December will be the One Hundredth Anniversary of the death
of Washington. For a hundred years the Republic has had the priceless
advantage of the lofty standard of character and conduct which he
bequeathed to the American people. It is an inheritance which time,
instead of wasting, continually increases and enriches. We may justly
hope that in the years to come the benignant influence of the Father of
his Country may be even more potent for good than in the century which
is drawing to a close. I have been glad to learn that in many parts of
the country the people will fittingly observe this historic anniversary.

Presented to this Congress are great opportunities. With them come great
responsibilities. The power confided to us increases the weight of our
obligations to the people, and we must be profoundly sensible of them
as we contemplate the new and grave problems which confront us. Aiming
only at the public good, we cannot err. A right interpretation of the
people's will and of duty cannot fail to insure wise measures for the
welfare of the islands which have come under the authority of the United
States, and inure to the common interest and lasting honor of our
country. Never has this Nation had more abundant cause than during the
past year for thankfulness to God for manifold blessings and mercies,
for which we make reverent acknowledgment.

WILLIAM McKINLEY.

EXECUTIVE MANSION, _Washington, December 11, 1899_.

_To the Senate and Hou