CXCVII. Fugitive Slaves; Ordinance of 1787--The Constitution--Act of 1793--Act of 1850 773 CXCVIII. Disunion Movements--Southern Press at Washington--Southern Convention at Nashville--Southern Congress called for by South Carolina and Mississippi 780 CXCIX. The Supreme Court--Its Judges, Clerk, Attorney-Generals, Reporters and Marshals during the Period treated of in this Volume 787 CC. Conclusion 787 THIRTY YEARS' VIEW. ADMINISTRATION OF MARTIN VAN BUREN. CHAPTER I. INAUGURATION OF MR. VAN BUREN. March the 4th of this year, Mr. Van Buren was inaugurated President of the United States with the usual formalities, and conformed to the usage of his predecessors in delivering a public address on the occasion: a declaration of general principles, and an indication of the general course of the administration, were the tenor of his discourse: and the doctrines of the democratic school, as understood at the original formation of parties, were those professed. Close observance of the federal constitution as written--no latitudinarian constructions permitted, or doubtful powers assumed--faithful adherence to all its compromises--economy in the administration of the government--peace, friendship and fair dealing with all foreign nations--entangling alliances with none: such was his political chart: and with the expression of his belief that a perseverance in this line of foreign policy, with an increased strength, tried valor of the people, and exhaustless resources of the country, would entitle us to the good will of nations, protect our national respectability, and secure us from designed aggression from foreign powers. His expressions and views on this head deserve to be commemorated, and to be considered by all those into whose hands the management of the public affairs may go; and are, therefore, here given in his own words: