This declaration of the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin is submitted to the Senate, because in its eighth and eleventh articles it is not the same in terms with the corresponding articles of our treaty with Hanover. The variations, however, are deemed unimportant, while the admission of our "paddy," or rice in the husk, into Mecklenburg-Schwerin free of import duty is an important concession not contained in the Hanoverian treaty. Others might be mentioned, which will appear upon inspection. Still, as the stipulations in the two articles just mentioned in the declaration are not the same as those contained in the corresponding articles of our treaty with Hanover, I deem it proper to submit this declaration to the Senate for their consideration before issuing a proclamation to give it effect. I also communicate a dispatch from the special agent on the part of the United States, which accompanied the declaration. JAMES K. POLK. WASHINGTON, _January 24, 1848_. _To the Senate of the United States_: In compliance with the request of the Senate in their resolution of the 13th instant, I herewith communicate a report from the Secretary of War, with the accompanying correspondence, containing the information called for, in relation to forced contributions in Mexico. JAMES K. POLK. WASHINGTON, _January 31, 1848_. _To the Senate of the United States_: I transmit herewith a report from the Secretary of War, containing the information called for in the resolution of the Senate of the 20th instant, in relation to General Orders, No. 376,[16] issued by General Scott at headquarters, Mexico, bearing date the 15th December last. JAMES K. POLK. [Footnote 16: Relating to the levying of taxes and duties upon Mexican products, etc., for the support of the United States Army in Mexico.] WASHINGTON, _January 31, 1848_. _To the Senate of the United States_: I communicate herewith a report of the Secretary of War, with the accompanying documents, in answer to the resolution of the Senate of the 24th instant, requesting to be furnished with "copies of the letters, reports, or other communications which are referred to in the letter of General Zachary Taylor dated at New Orleans, 20th July, 1845, and addressed to the Secretary of War, and which are so referred to as containing the views of General Taylor, previously communicated, in regard to the line proper to be occupied at that time by the troops of the United States; and any similar communication from any officer of the Army on the same subject." JAMES K. POLK. WASHINGTON, _February 2, 1848_. _To the Senate of the United States_: