Nebraska Advertiser

When the fact was first announced that this Territory would be required to pay a direct tax of $19,000, in support of the war for the preservation of the Union, many were the plans spoken of by which it could be done. Among others, that of adjourning the Legislature immediately after convening, and appropriate the money, given by Congress to defray the expenses thereof, to the payment of the direct tax. This plan appeared to suit almost every one, and so far as our knowledge and observation extends, does yet, provided, that it can be done. The Legislature of course has not the power to divert the funds donated by Congress for a special purpose; Congress alone can do it. We have been, and are yet, an advocate of that plan, if it is practicable and can be brought about. In order that the Legislature might act so as to accomplish this end, it ought to know before it acts, whether such action would secure the object sought. For we hold that it is not the part of wisdom to reject the proffered aid of the General Government, and derive no benefit from it whatever. If the sum usually appropriated annually to defray Legislative expenses—$20,000 we believe—cannot or will not be diverted to the payment of our direct tax, we cannot afford to send it back into the National Treasury. Better, we think, that the members consume it by holding a regular session, and thus secure and distribute it throughout the Territory. It will then be where it will be used in the payment of the tax referred to. We can but view this matter in this light, and in so saying believe we reflect the views of the Nemaha Delegation and the community generally.

We repeat, if the desired object can be secured, or there is any reasonable prospect that it can, by an immediate adjournment, by all means adjourn.