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5 of Russia, and their august Sovereign, - the best and most constant friend of the Republic of the United States. 14. Notwithstanding the most benevolent intentions of the Emperor towards his American Colonies, their immense distance from the Metropolitan Government, and the delay and difficulties of communication, have probably heretofore prevented the application to them of the same fostering care which they otherwise would have received. They have been too far from the heart of a vast empire to feel the warmth of the life-current, and enjoy the vitality, of the government of a common country. Hence the trade of their colonies has languished, their agriculture has been neglected, and their general progress almost imperceptible. Perhaps these facts have constituted the moving causes which induced his Imperial Majesty to consent to the cession of this territory, and the transfer of the allegiance of its inhabitants to the United States, as a Government more capable, from its proximity, of promoting its interests and supplying its wants. 15. But henceforth the citizens of that territory who elect to remain will be Entitled to all the rights, privileges and immunities guaranteed by the constitution of the United States to all the inhabitants of our Republic. They will be under the protection and care of our government. To it, their allegiance will hereafter be due and required, and, in return, they will be entitled to its protection and constitutional guarantees. They will have unrestricted intercourse and commerce with all the States and Territories of the Federal Union, subject only to the ordinary custom-House regulations of internal and coast-wise trade. Our merchants and trading vessels will visit their ports, and offer for sale such articles as they may desire to purchase, and will receive in exchange such articles as they may wish to sell.