In the Union's Congress session held this Friday, Speaker Stanisław Małachowski initiated discussions emphasizing the fervor with which measures should be pursued for the public good. The session marked a continuance of debates on various fiscal matters, particularly addressing proposals concerning tax allocations and fiscal maintenance dedicated to national defense.

Secretary Jan Łuszczewski reported on proposals relating to judicial proceedings about a falsified legal document purportedly issued by the Congress. The chamber showed unanimity in agreement to refer the matter to congressional courts for adjudication.

Representative Tomasz Dłuski from Lublin, in his address, acknowledged the voluntary sacrifice made by citizens in donating the so-called 'tenth grosz' (a taxation measure) for strengthening the Union's military. He underlined the nation's spirit of patriotism and eagerness to defend the sovereignty and glory of the homeland. Dłuski also suggested an alternative method of tax calculation for landowners who do not measure their income by the standard practices of serf labor and seed sowing. He proposed a system based on measuring 'staj' (stables) and 'zagon' (ploughlands) to ensure equitable contribution by all proprietors, which the Congress will take under consideration.

Józef Ossoliński, representing Bielsk, requested the appointment of commissioners to two counties of the Bielsk province to oversee taxation matters. His proposal, highlighting a regional approach to financial governance, was met with unanimous approval.

The session also turned its attention to the intricacies of military reforms with Piotr Potocki, a representative from Podlasie, stating that the Union's defense and financial stability depend on prudent and continuous congressional activity. He emphasized that contributions towards the military budget should be met with the assurance of a clear and effective allocation of resources for national defense.

Tadeusz Matuszewicz from Brześć nad Bugiem supported the ongoing efforts and urged the swift and devoted action for the Republic's benefit, reflecting on the examples set by Speaker Małachowski and the distinguished Chambers of the Congress.

A considerable debate ensued over the project submitted by Wojciech Suchodolski from Chełm regarding the financial management of the Kraków bishopric's revenues. The proposition to limit the income of subsequent bishops of Kraków to 100,000 zlotys annually, transferring excess funds to other church officials and the state's treasury, became a focal point of contention. After prolonged discussions, Congress members ultimately voted in favor of the motion by a majority vote.

The President, Stanisław August Poniatowski, in his address to the Congress, called for prudence and suggested allocating part of the bishopric's revenues for border fortifications and educational institutions like the Kraków Academy. His speech was a delicate balancing act, showcasing respect for religious institutions while advocating for the strategic use of their financial resources.

Congress concluded its session with decisions that are poised to reformulate the financial landscape, reflecting both practical governance and the spirit of collective contribution for the welfare of the Union. The commitment to upholding the nation's military readiness by equitable tax measures and the protection of educational and defense institutions marks the Congress's focus on ensuring a secure and enlightened domain.

Topics: 1789 Sejm session; Sejm proceedings; tenth grosz tax project; marshal of the Sejm's addresses; deputies' speeches; funds of the Krakow bishopric; tax proposals; military fund; Duchy of Siewierz; Sejm sessions; principles of property;