MONDAY, December 5, 1864. Link to Annals.

Present:

From the State of New Hampshire.

The honorable Daniel Clark.

From the State of Massachusetts.

The honorable

Charles Sumner,

Henry Wilson.

From the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.

The honorable Henry B. Anthony.

From the State of Connecticut.

The honorable

James Dixon,

Lafayette S. Foster.

From the State of Vermont.

The honorable

Jacob Collamer,

Solomon Foot.

From the State of New York.

The honorable

Ira Harris,

Edwin D. Morgan.

From the State of New Jersey.

The honorable John C. Ten Eyck.

From the State of Pennsylvania.

The honorable Edgar Cowan.

0004 4

From the State of Maryland.

The honorable

Thomas H. Hicks,

Reverdy Johnson.

From the State of Kentucky.

The honorable

Garrett Davis,

Lazarus W. Powell.

From the State of Ohio.

The honorable

John Sherman,

Benjamin F. Wade.

From the State of Indiana.

The honorable

Thomas A. Hendricks,

Henry S. Lane.

From the State of Illinois.

The honorable Lyman Trumbull.

From the State of Maine.

The honorable Lot M. Morrill.

From the State of Missouri.

The honorable John B. Henderson.

From the State of Michigan.

The honorable Zachariah Chandler.

From the State of Iowa.

The honorable James W. Grimes.

From the State of Wisconsin.

The honorable

James R. Doolittle,

Timothy O. Howe.

From the State of California.

The honorable

John Conness,

James A. McDougall.

From the State of Minnesota.

The honorable

Alexander Ramsey,

Morton S. Wilkinson.

From the State of Oregon.

The honorable

Benjamin F. Harding,

James W. Nesmith.

0005 5

From the State of Kansas.

The honorable

James H. Lane,

Samuel C. Pomeroy.

From the State of West Virginia.

The honorable

Peter G. Van Winkle,

Waitman T. Willey.

The honorable Daniel Clark, President of the Senate pro tempore, resumed the chair.

On motion by Mr. Foot,

Ordered, That the Secretary inform the House of Representatives that a quorum of the Senate has assembled, and that the Senate is ready to proceed to business.

Mr. Morrill presented the credentials of the honorable Nathan A. Farwell, appointed a senator of the United States by the governor of the State of Maine, to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of the honorable William Pitt Fessenden.

The credentials were read, and the oaths prescribed by law were administered by the President pro tempore to Mr. Farwell, and he took his seat in the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Foot,

Ordered, That the hour of the daily meeting of the Senate be twelve o'clock meridian, until otherwise ordered.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: I am directed by the House of Representatives to inform the Senate that a quorum of the House has assembled, and that the House is ready to proceed to business.

The House of Representatives has passed a resolution for the appointment of a committee on its part, to join such committee as may be appointed by the Senate, to wait upon the President of the United States and inform him that a quorum of each house has assembled, and that Congress is ready to receive any communication he may be pleased to make; and it has appointed Mr. E. B. Washburne, Mr. Pendleton, and Mr. Fenton, the committee on its part.

Mr. Foot submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That a committee consisting of three members be appointed, to join the committee appointed by the House of Representatives, to wait upon the President of the United States and inform him that a quorum of each house has assembled, and that Congress is ready to receive any communication he may be pleased to make.

Ordered, That the committee be appointed by the President pro tempore; and

The President pro tempore appointed Mr. Foot, Mr. Conness, and Mr. Hendricks.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Sherman asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 350) to authorize the purchase or construction of revenue cutters on the lakes; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Lane, of Kansas, asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 351) for the relief of the officers and soldiers of the militia of the States of Kansas and Missouri, in repelling the late invasion of those States by the rebel forces under General Sterling Price, and for other purposes; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

0006 6

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The Senate took a recess until half past one o'clock.

After which,

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

The Senate adjourned.

TUESDAY, December 6, 1864. Link to Annals.

The honorable John S. Carlile, from the State of Virginia, and the honorable George Read Riddle, from the State of Delaware, attended.

Mr. Foot, from the joint committee appointed to wait upon the President of the United States and inform him that a quorum of each house has assembled, and that Congress is ready to receive any communication he may be pleased to make, reported—

That the committee had performed the duty assigned them, and that the President had requested them to say that he would make his annual communication to Congress at one o'clock to-day.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

The Senate took a recess until one o'clock.

After which,

The following message was received from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

Fellow-citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives:

Again the blessings of health and abundant harvests claim our profoundest gratitude to Almighty God.

The condition of our foreign affairs is reasonably satisfactory.

Mexico continues to be a theatre of civil war. While our political relations with that country have undergone no change, we have, at the same time, strictly maintained neutrality between the belligerents.

At the request of the states of Costa Rica and Nicaragua, a competent engineer has been authorized to make a survey of the river San Juan and the port of San Juan. It is a source of much satisfaction that the difficulties which for moment excited some political apprehensions, and caused a closing of the interoceanic transit route, have been amicably adjusted, and that there is a good prospect that the route will soon be reopened with an increase of capacity and adaptation. We could not exaggerate either the commercial or the political importance of that great improvement.

It would be doing injustice to an important South American state not to acknowledge the directness, frankness, and cordiality with which the United States of Colombia have entered into intimate relations with this government. A claims convention has been constituted to complete the unfinished work of the one which closed its session in 1861.

The new liberal constitution of Venezuela having gone into effect with the universal acquiescence of the people, the government under it has been recognized, and diplomatic intercourse with it has opened in a cordial and friendly spirit. The long-deferred Aves Island claim has been satisfactorily paid and discharged.

Mutual payments have been made of the claims awarded by the late joint commission for the settlement of claims between the United States and Peru. An earnest and cordial friendship continues to exist between the two countries, and such efforts as were in my power have been used to remove misunderstanding and avert a threatened war between Peru and Spain.

Our relations are of the most friendly nature with Chili, the Argentine Republic, Bolivia, Costa Rios, Paraguay, San Salvador, and Hayti.

During the past year no differences of any kind have arisen with any of 0007 7 those republics, and, on the other hand, their sympathies with the United States are constantly expressed with cordiality and earnestness.

The claim arising from the seizure of the cargo of the brig Macedonian in 1821 has been paid in full by the government of Chili.

Civil war continues in the Spanish part of San Domingo, apparently without prospect of an early close.

Official correspondence has been freely opened with Liberia, and it gives us a pleasing view of social and political progress in that republic. It may be expected to derive new vigor from American influence, improved by the rapid disappearance of slavery in the United States.

I solicit your authority to furnish to the republic a gunboat at moderate cost, to be reimbursed to the United States by instalments. Such a vessel is needed for the safety of that state against the native African races; and in Liberian hands it would be more effective in arresting the African slave trade than a squadron in our own hands. The possession of the least organized naval force would stimulate a generous ambition in the republic, and the confidence which we should manifest by furnishing it would win forbearance and favor towards the colony from all civilized nations.

The proposed overland telegraph between America and Europe, by the way of Behring's Straits and Asiatic Russia, which was sanctioned by Congress at the last session, has been undertaken, under very favorable circumstances, by an association of American citizens, with the cordial good-will and support as well of this government as of those of Great Britain and Russia. Assurances have been received from most of the South American states of their high appreciation of the enterprise, and their readiness to co-operate in constructing lines tributary to that world-encircling communication. I learn, with much satisfaction, that the noble design of a telegraphic communication between the eastern coast of America and Great Britain has been renewed with full expectation of its early accomplishment.

Thus it is hoped, that with the return of domestic peace the country will be able to resume with energy and advantage its former high career of commerce and civilization.

Our very popular and estimable representative in Egypt died in April last. An unpleasant altercation which arose between the temporary incumbent of the office and the government of the Pacha resulted in a suspension of intercourse. The evil was promptly corrected on the arrival of the successor in the consulate, and our relations with Egypt, as well as our relations with the Barbary powers, are entirely satisfactory.

The rebellion which has so long been flagrant in China has at last been suppressed, with the co-operating good offices of this government, and of the other western commercial states. The judicial consular establishment there has become very difficult and onerous, and it will need legislative revision to adapt it to the extension of our commerce, and to the more intimate intercourse which has been instituted with the government and people of that vast empire. China seems to be accepting with hearty good-will the conventional laws which regulate commercial and, social intercourse among the western nations.

Owing to the peculiar situation of Japan, and the anomalous form of its government, the action of that empire in performing treaty stipulations is inconstant and capricious. Nevertheless, good progress has been effected by the western powers, moving with enlightened concert. Our own pecuniary claims have been allowed, or put in course of settlement, and the inland sea has been reopened to commerce. There is reason also to believe that these proceedings have increased rather than diminished the friendship of Japan towards the United States.

The ports of Norfolk, Fernandina, and Pensacola have been opened by proclamation. It is hoped that foreign merchants will now consider whether it is not 0008 8 safer and more profitable to themselves, as well as just to the United States, to resort to these and other open ports, than it is to pursue, through many hazards, and at vast cost, a contraband trade with other ports which are closed, if not by actual military occupation, at least by a lawful and effective blockade.

For myself, I have no doubt of the power and duty of the Executive, under the law of nations, to exclude enemies of the human race from an asylum in the United States. If Congress should think that proceedings in such cases lack the authority of law, or ought to be further regulated by it, I recommend that provision be made for effectually preventing foreign slave traders from acquiring domicile and facilities for their criminal occupation in our country.

It is possible that, if it were a new and open question, the maritime powers, with the lights they now enjoy, would not concede the privileges of a naval belligerent to the insurgents of the United States, destitute, as they are, and always have been, equally of ships-of-war and of ports and harbors. Disloyal emissaries have been neither less assiduous nor more successful during the last year than they were before that time in their efforts, under favor of that privilege, to embroil our country in foreign wars. The desire and determination of the governments of the maritime states to defeat that design are believed to be as sincere as, and cannot be more earnest than, our own. Nevertheless, unforeseen political difficulties have arisen, especially in Brazilian and British ports, and on the northern boundary of the United States, which have required, and are likely to continue to require, the practice of constant vigilance, and a just and conciliatory spirit on the part of the United States as well as of the nations concerned and their governments.

Commissioners have been appointed, under the treaty with Great Britain, on the adjustment of the claims of the Hudson's Bay and Puget's Sound Agricultural Companies, in Oregon, and are now proceeding to the execution of the trust assigned to them.

In view of the insecurity of life and property in the region adjacent to the Canadian border, by reason of recent assaults and depredations committed by inimical and desperate persons, who are harbored there, it has been thought proper.to give notice that after the expiration of six months, the period conditionally stipulated in the existing arrangement with Great Britain, the United States must hold themselves at liberty to increase their naval armament upon the lakes, if they shall find that proceeding necessary. The condition of the border will necessarily come into consideration in connexion with the question of continuing or modifying the rights of transit from Canada through the United States, as well as the regulation of imposts, which were temporarily established by the reciprocity treaty of the 5th June, 1854.

I desire, however, to be understood, while making this statement, that the colonial authorities of Canada are not deemed to be intentionally unjust or unfriendly towards the United States; but, on the contrary, there is every reason to expect that, with the approval of the imperial government, they will take the necessary measures to prevent new incursions across the border.

The act passed at the last session for the encouragement of emigration has so far as was possible, been put into operation. It seems to need amendment which will enable the officers of the government to prevent the practice of frauds against the immigrants while on their way, and on their arrival in the ports, so as to secure them here a free choice of avocations and places of settlement. A liberal disposition towards tiffs great national policy is manifested by most of the European states, and ought to be reciprocated on our part by giving the immigrants effective national protection. I regard our emigrants as one of the principal replenishing streams which are appointed by Providence to repair the ravages of internal war, and its wastes of national strength and health. All that is necessary is to secure the flow of that stream in its present fullness, and to that end the government must, in every way, make it manifest that it neither 0009 9 needs nor designs to impose involuntary military service upon those who come from other lands to cast their lot in our country.

The financial affairs of the government have been successfully administered during the last year. The legislation of the last session of Congress has beneficially affected the revenues, although sufficient time has not yet elapsed to experience the full effect of several of the provisions of the acts of Congress imposing increased taxation.

The receipts during the year, from all sources, upon the basis of warrants signed by the Secretary of the Treasury, including loans and the balance in the treasury on the first day of July, 1863, were $1,394,796,007 62; and the aggregate disbursements, upon the same basis, were $1,298,056,101 89, leaving a balance in the treasury, as shown by warrants, of $96,739,905 73.

Deduct from these amounts the amount of the principal of the public debt redeemed, and the amount of issues in substitution therefor, and the actual cash operations of the treasury were: receipts, $8?4,076,646 57; disbursements, $865,234,087 86; which leaves a cash balance in the treasury of $18,842,558 71.

Of the receipts, there were derived from customs $102,316,152 99; from lands, $588,333 29; from direct taxes, $475,648 96; from internal revenue, $109,741,134 10; from miscellaneous sources, $47,511,448 10; and from loans applied to actual expenditures, including former balance, $623,443,929 13.

There were disbursed, for the civil service, $27,505,599 46; for pensions and Indians, $7,517,930 97; for the War Department, $690,791,842 97; for the Navy Department, $85,733,292 77; for interest of the public debt, $53,685,421 69—making an aggregate of $865,234,087 86, and leaving a balance in the treasury of $18,842,558 71, as before stated.

For the actual receipts and disbursements for the first quarter, and the estimated receipts and disbursements for the three remaining quarters of the current fiscal year, and the general operations of the treasury in detail, I refer you to the report of the Secretary of the Treasury. I concur with him in the opinion that the proportion of moneys required to meet the expenses consequent upon the war derived from taxation should be still further increased; and I earnestly invite your attention to this subject, to the end that there may be such additional legislation as shall be required to meet the just expectations of the Secretary.

The public debt on the first day of July last, as appears by the books of the treasury, amounted to $1,740,690,489 49. Probably, should the war continue for another year, that amount may be increased by not far from five hundred millions. Held as it is, for the most part, by our own people, it has become a substantial branch of national, though private, property. For obvious reasons, the more nearly this property can be distributed among all the people the better. To favor such general distribution, greater inducements to become owners might, perhaps, with good effect, and without injury, be presented to persons of limited means. With this view, I suggest whether it might not be both competent and expedient for Congress to provide that a limited amount of some future issue of public securities might be held by any bona fide purchaser exempt from taxation, and from seizure for debt, under such restrictions and limitations as might be necessary to guard against abuse of so important a privilege. This would enable every prudent person to set aside a small annuity against a possible day of want.

Privileges like these would render the possession of such securities, to the amount limited, most desirable to every person of small means who might be able to save enough for the purpose. The great advantage of citizens being creditors as well as debtors, with relation to the public debt, is obvious. Men readily perceive that they cannot be much oppressed by a debt which they owe to themselves.

The public debt on the first day of July last, although somewhat exceeding the estimate of the Secretary of the Treasury made to Congress at the commencement 0010 10 of the last session, falls short of the estimate of that officer made in the preceding December, as to its probable amount at the beginning of this year, by the sum of $3,995,097 31. This fact exhibits a satisfactory condition and conduct of the operations of the treasury.

The national banking system is proving to be acceptable to capitalists and to the people. On the twenty-fifth day of November five hundred and eighty-four national banks had been organized, a considerable number of which were conversions from State banks. Changes from State systems to the national system are rapidly taking place, and it is hoped that, very soon, there will be in the United States no banks of issue not authorized by Congress, and no bank-note circulation not secured by the government. That the government and the people will derive great benefit from this change in the banking systems of the country can hardly be questioned. The national system will create a reliable and permanent influence in support of the national credit, and protect the people against losses in the use of paper money. Whether or not any further legislation is advisable for the suppression of State bank issues, it will be for Congress to determine. It seems quite clear that the treasury cannot be satisfactorily conducted unless the government can exercise a restraining power over the bank-note circulation of the country.

The report of the Secretary of War and the accompanying documents will detail the campaigns of the armies in the field since the date of the last annual message, and also the operations of the several administrative bureaus of the War Department during the last year. It will also specify the measures deemed essential for the national defence, and to keep up and supply the requisite military force.

The report of the Secretary of the Navy presents a comprehensive and satisfactory exhibit of the affairs of that department and of the naval service. It is a subject of congratulation and laudable pride to our countrymen that a navy of such vast proportions has been organized in so brief a period, and conducted with so much efficiency and success.

The general exhibit of the navy, including vessels under construction on the 1st of December, 1864, shows a total of 671 vessels, carrying 4,610 guns, and of 510,396 tons, being an actual increase during the year, over and above all losses by shipwreck or in battle, of 83 vessels, 167 guns, and 42,427 tons.

The total number of men at this time in the naval service, including officers is about 51,000.

There have been captured by the navy during the year 324 vessels, and the whole number of naval captures sines hostilities commenced is 1,379, of which 267 are steamers.

The gross proceeds arising from the sale of condemned prize property, thus far reported, amount to $14,396,250 51. A large amount of such proceeds is still under adjudication and yet to be reported.

The total expenditure of the Navy Department of every description, including the cost of the immense squadrons that have been called into existence from the 4th of March, 1861, to the 1st of November, 1864, are $238,647,262 35.

Your favorable consideration is invited to the various recommendations of the Secretary of the Navy, especially in regard to a navy yard and suitable establishment for the construction and repair of iron vessels, and the machinery and armature for our ships, to which reference was made in my last annual message.

Your attention is also invited to the views expressed in the report in relation to the legislation of Congress at its last session in respect to prize on our inland waters.

I cordially concur in the recommendation of the Secretary as to the propriety of creating the new rank of vice-admiral in our naval service.

Your attention is invited to the report of the Postmaster General for a 0011 11 detailed account of the operations and financial condition of the Post Office Department.

The postal revenues for the year ending June 30, 1864, amounted to $ 12,438,253 78, and the expenditures to $12,644,786 20; the excess of expenditures over receipts being $206,652 42.

The views presented by the Postmaster General on the subject of special grants by the government in aid of the establishment of new lines of ocean mail steamships, and the policy he recommends for the development of increased commercial intercourse with adjacent and neighboring countries, should receive the careful consideration of Congress.

It is of noteworthy interest that the steady expansion of population, improvement, and governmental institutions over the new and unoccupied portions of our country have scarcely been checked, much less impeded or destroyed, by our great civil war, which at first glance would seem to have absorbed almost the entire energies of the nation.

The organization and admission of the State of Nevada has been completed in conformity with law, and thus our excellent system is firmly established in the mountains, which once seemed a barren and uninhabitable waste between the Atlantic States and those which have grown up on the coast of the Pacific ocean.

The Territories of the Union are generally in a condition of prosperity and rapid growth. Idaho and Montana, by reason of their great distance and the interruption of communication with them by Indian hostilities, have been only partially organized; but it is understood that these difficulties are about to disappear, which will permit their governments, like those of the others, to go into speedy and full operation.

As intimately connected with, and promotive of, this material growth of the nation, I ask the attention of Congress to the valuable information and important recommendations relating to the public lands, Indian affairs, the Pacific railroad, and mineral discoveries contained in the report of the Secretary of the Interior, which is herewith transmitted, and which report also embraces the subjects of patents, pensions, and other topics of public interest pertaining to his department.

The quantity of public land disposed of during the five quarters ending on the 30th of September last was 4,221,342 acres, of which 1,538,614 acres were entered under the homestead law. The remainder was located with military land warrants, agricultural scrip certified to States for railroads, and sold for cash. The cash received from sales and location fees was $1,019,446.

The income from sales during the fiscal year, ending June 30, 1864, was $678,007 21, against $136,077 95 received during the preceding year. The aggregate number of acres surveyed during the year has been equal to the quantity disposed of; and there is open to settlement about 133,000,000 acres of surveyed land.

The great enterprise of connecting the Atlantic with the Pacific States by railways and telegraph lines has been entered upon with a vigor that give assurance of success, notwithstanding the embarrassments arising from the prevailing high prices of materials and labor. The route of the main line of the road has been definitely located for one hundred miles westward from the initial point at Omaha City, Nebraska, and a preliminary location of the Pacific railroad of California has been made from Sacramento eastward to the great bend of the Truckee river, in Nevada.

Numerous discoveries of gold, silver, and cinnabar mines have been added to the many heretofore known, and the country occupied by the Sierra Nevada and Rocky mountains, and the subordinate ranges, now teems with enterprising labor, which is richly remunerative. It is believed that the product of the mines 0012 12 of precious metals in that region has, during the year, reached, if not exceeded, one hundred millions in value.

It was recommended in my last annual message that our Indian system be remodelled. Congress, at its last session, acting upon the recommendation, did provide for reorganizing the system in California, and it is believed that under the present organization the management of the Indians there will be attended with reasonable success. Much yet remains to be done to provide for the proper government of the Indians in other parts of the country, to render it secure for the advancing settler, and to provide for the welfare of the Indian. The Secretary reiterates his recommendations, and to them the attention of Congress is invited.

The liberal provisions made by Congress for paying pensions to invalid soldiers and sailors of the republic, and to the widows, orphans, and dependent mothers of those who have fallen in battle, or died of disease contracted, or of wounds received in the service of their country, have been diligently administered. There have been added to the pension rolls, during the year ending the 30th day of June last, the names of 16,770 invalid soldiers, and of 271 disabled seamen, making the present number of army invalid pensioners 22,767, and of navy invalid pensioners 712.

Of widows, orphans, and mothers, 22,193 have been placed on the army pension rolls, and 248 on the navy rolls. The present number of army pensioners of this class is 25,433, and of navy pensioners 793. At the beginning of the year the number of revolutionary pensioners was 1,430; only twelve of them were soldiers, of whom seven have since died. The remainder are those who, under the law, receive pensions because of relationship to revolutionary soldiers. During the year ending the 30th of June, 1864, $4,504,616 92 have been paid to pensioners of all classes.

I cheerfully commend to your continued patronage the benevolent institutions of the District of Columbia which have hitherto been established or fostered by Congress, and respectfully refer, for information concerning them, and in relation to the Washington aqueduct, the Capitol, and other matters of local interest, to the report of the Secretary.

The Agricultural Department, under the supervision of its present energetic and faithful head, is rapidly commending itself to the great and vital interest it was created to advance. It is peculiarly the people's department, in which they feel more directly concerned than in any other. I commend it to the continued attention and fostering care of Congress.

The war continues. Since the last annual message all the important lines and positions then occupied by our forces have been maintained, and our arms have steadily advanced; thus liberating the regions left in rear, so that Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, and parts of other States have again produced reasonably fair crops.

The most remarkable feature in the military operations of the year is General Sherman's attempted march of three hundred miles directly through the insurgent region. It tends to show a great increase of our relative strength that our general-in-chief should feel able to confront and hold in check every active force of the enemy, and yet to detach a well-appointed large army to move on such an expedition. The result not yet being known, conjecture in regard to it is not here indulged.

Important movements have also occurred during the year to the effect of moulding society for durability in the Union. Although short of complete success, it is much in the right direction, that twelve thousand citizens in each of the States of Arkansas and Louisiana have organized loyal State governments, with free constitutions, and are earnestly struggling to maintain and administer them. The movements in the same direction, more extensive, though less definite, in Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee, should not be overlooked. But Maryland presents the example of complete success. Maryland is secure 0013 13 to Liberty and Union for all the future. The genius of rebellion will no more claim Maryland. Like another foul spirit, being driven out, it may seek to tear her, but it will woo her no more.

At the last session of Congress a proposed amendment of the Constitution, abolishing slavery throughout the United States, passed the Senate, but failed for lack of the requisite two-thirds vote in the House of Representatives. Although the present is the same Congress, and nearly the same members, and without questioning the wisdom or patriotism of those who stood in opposition, I venture to recommend the reconsideration and passage of the measure at the present session. Of course the abstract question is not changed; but an intervening election shows, almost certainly, that the next Congress will pass the measure if this does not. Hence there is only a question of time as to when I the proposed amendment will go to the States for their action. And as it is to so go, at all events, may we not agree that the sooner the better? It is not claimed that the election has imposed a duty on members to change their views or their votes, any further than, as an additional element to be considered, their judgment may be affected by it. It is the voice of the people now, for the first time, heard upon the question. In a great national crisis, like ours, unanimity of action among those seeking a common end is very desirable—almost indispensable. And yet no approach to such unanimity is attainable, unless some deference shall be paid to the will of the majority, simply because it is the will of the majority. In this case the common end is the maintenance of the Union; and, among the means to secure that end, such will, through the election, is most clearly declared in favor of such constitutional amendment.

The most reliable indication of public purpose in this country is derived through our popular elections. Judging by the recent canvass and its result, the purpose of the people, within the loyal States, to maintain the integrity of the Union, was never more firm, nor more nearly unanimous, than now. The extraordinary calmness and good order with which the millions of voters met and mingled at the polls give strong assurance of this. Not only all those who supported the Union ticket, so called, but a great majority of the opposing party also, may be fairly claimed to entertain, and to be actuated by, the same purpose. It is an unanswerable argument to this effect, that no candidate for any office whatever, high or low, has ventured to seek votes on the avowal that he was for giving up the Union. There have been much impugning of motives, and much heated controversy as to the proper means and best mode of advancing the Union cause; but on the distinct issue of Union or no Union the politicians have shown their instinctive knowledge that there is no diversity among the people. In affording the people the fair opportunity of showing, one to another and to the world, this firmness and unanimity of purpose, the election has been of vast value to the national cause.

The election has exhibited another fact not less valuable to be known—the fact that we do not approach exhaustion in the most important branch of national resources—that of living men. While it is melancholy to reflect that the war has filled so many graves, and carried mourning to so many hearts, it is some relief to know that, compared with the surviving, the fallen have been so few. While corps, and divisions, and brigades, and regiments have formed, and fought, and dwindled, and gone out of existence, a great majority of the men who composed them are still living. The same is true of the naval service. The election returns prove this. So many voters could not else be found. The States regularly holding elections, both now and four years ago, to wit, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin, east 3,982,011 votes now, against 3,870,222 cast then, showing an aggregate now of 3,982,011. To this is to be 0014 14 added 33,762 cast now in the new States of Kansas and Nevada, which States did not vote in 1860, thus swelling the aggregate to 4,015,773 and the net increase during the three years and a half of war to 145,551. A table is appended showing particulars. To this again should be added the number of all soldiers in the field from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Delaware, Indiana, Illinois, and California, who, by the laws of those States, could not vote away from their homes, and which number cannot be less than 90,000. Nor yet is this all. The number in organized Territories is triple now what it was four years ago, while thousands, white and black, join us as the national arms press back the insurgent lines. So much is shown, affirmatively and negatively, by the election. It is not material to inquire how the increase has been produced, or to show that it would have been greater but for the war, which is probably true. The important fact remains demonstrated, that we have more men now than we had when the war began; that we are not exhausted, nor in process of exhaustion; that we are gaining strength, and may, if need be, maintain the contest indefinitely. This as to men. Material resources are now more complete and abundant than ever.

The national resources, then, are unexhausted, and, as we believe, inexhaustible. The public purpose to re-establish and maintain the national authority is unchanged, and, as we believe, unchangeable. The manner of continuing the effort remains to choose. On careful consideration of all the evidence accessible, it seems to me that no attempt at negotiation with the insurgent leader could result in any good. He would accept nothing short of severance of the Union—precisely what we will not and cannot give. His declarations to this effect are explicit and oft-repeated. He does not attempt to deceive us. He affords us no excuse to deceive ourselves. He cannot voluntarily reaccept the Union; we cannot voluntarily yield it Between him and us the issue is distinct, simple, and inflexible. It is an issue which can only be tried by war, and decided by victory. If we yield, we are beaten; if the southern people fail him, he is beaten. Either way, it would be the victory and defeat following war. What is true, however, of him who heads the insurgent cause is not necessarily true of those who follow. Although he cannot reaccept the Union, they can. Some of them, we know, already desire peace and reunion. The number of such may increase. They can, at any moment, have peace simply by laying down their arms and submitting to the national authority under the Constitution. After so much, the government could not, if it would, maintain war against them. The loyal people would not sustain or allow it. If questions should remain, we would adjust them by the peaceful means of legislation, conference, courts, and votes, operating only in constitutional and lawful channels. Some certain, and other possible, questions are, and would be, beyond the Executive power to adjust; as, for instance, the admission of members into Congress, and whatever might require the appropriation of money. The Executive power itself would be greatly diminished by the cessation of actual war. Pardons and remissions of forfeitures, however, would still be within Executive control. In what spirit and temper this control would be exercised can be fairly judged of by the past.

A year ago general pardon and amnesty, upon specified terms, were offered to all, except certain designated classes; and it was, at the same time, made known that the excepted classes were still within contemplation of special clemency. During the year many availed themselves of the general provision, and many more would, only that the signs of bad faith in some led to such precautionary measures as rendered the practical process less easy and certain. During the same time also special pardons have been granted to individuals of the excepted classes, and no voluntary application has been denied. Thus, practically, the door has been, for a full year, open to all, except such as were not in condition to make free choice—that is, such as were in custody or under constraint. It is still so open to all. But the time may come—probably will come—when public 0015 15 duty shall demand that it be closed; and that, in lieu, more rigorous measures than heretofore shall be adopted.

In presenting the abandonment of armed resistance to the national authority on the part of the insurgents, as the only indispensable condition to ending the war on the part of the government, I retract nothing heretofore said as to slavery. I repeat the declaration made a year ago, that “while I remain in my present position I shall not attempt to retract or modify the emancipation proclamation, nor shall I return to slavery any person who is free by the terms of that proclamation, or by any of the acts of Congress.” If the people should, by whatever mode or means, make it an Executive duty to re-enslave such persons, another, and not I, must be their instrument to perform it.

In stating a single condition of peace, I mean simply to say that the war will cease on the part of the government whenever it shall have ceased on the part of those who began it.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

December 6, 1864.

1860 1864. California 118, 840 * 110, 000 Connecticut 77,246 86,616 Delaware 16,039 16,924 Illinois 339,693 348,235 Indiana 272,143 280,645 Iowa 128,331 143,331 Kentucky 146,216 * 91,300 Maine 97,918 115,141 Maryland 92,502 72,703 Massachusetts 169,533 175,487 Michigan 154,747 162,413 Minnesota 34,799 42,534 Missouri 165,538 * 90,000 New Hampshire 65,953 69,111 New Jersey 121,125 128,680 New York 675,156 730,664 Ohio 442,441 470,745 Oregon 14,410 † 14,410 Pennsylvania 476,442 572,697 Rhode Island 19,931 22,187 Vermont 42,844 55,811 West Virginia 46,195 33,874 Wisconsin 152,180 148,513 3,870,222 3,982,011 Kansas 17,234 Nevada 16,528 33,762 3,982,011 Total 4,015,773 3,870,222 Net increase 145,551

Table showing the aggregate votes in the States named, at the presidential election respectively in 1860 and 1864.

* Nearly.

† Estimated.

0016 16

The message was read.

On motion by Mr. Anthony,

Ordered, That the message be printed.

On motion by Mr. Anthony that five thousand additional copies of the message be printed,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the motion be postponed to tomorrow.

The President pro tempore laid before the Senate the annual report of the Secretary of the Treasury on the state of the finances; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Sumner submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested, if, in his opinion, not inconsistent with the public interest, to furnish to the Senate any information in the possession of the Department of State concerning any proposition or overture recently made by British subjects in aid of the rebellion.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

WEDNESDAY, December 7, 1864. Link to Annals.

The honorable William Wright, from the State of New Jersey, attended.

Mr. Lane, of Indiana, asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 352) authorizing the holding of a special session of the United. States district court for the district of Indiana, and for other purposes; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Morrill asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 353) to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the ‘Metropolitan Railroad Company,’ in the District of Columbia,” approved July 1, 1864; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

The President pro tempore laid before the Senate a letter of the honorable Michael Hahn, governor of the State of Louisiana, communicating the credentials of the honorable Charles Smith and the honorable R. King Cutler, senators elect from that State to the Congress of the United States, with copies of the proceedings of the general assembly of Louisiana in reference to their election; which were read.

Ordered, That they lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Morgan presented the credentials of the honorable Charles Smith and the honorable R. King Cutler, senators elect from the State of Louisiana to the Congress of the United States, with copies of the proceedings of the general assembly of Louisiana in reference to their election.

Ordered, That they lie on the table.

Mr. Wade presented a memorial of citizens of Louisiana, remonstrating against the admission of senators or representatives from the pretended State of Louisiana into the Congress of the United States, and the reception of any electoral vote of that State in counting the votes for President and Vice-President of the United States, and praying the passage of an act guaranteeing republican government in the insurrectionary States.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

The President pro tempore presented copies of the laws, joint resolutions, and memorials of the Territory of Nebraska, passed at the ninth session of the legislative assembly, with copies of the journals of the common council and house of representatives of the said legislative assembly for the same session.

Ordered, That they lie on the table.

0017 17

Mr. Powell submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed, if not incompatible with the public interest, to transmit to the Senate the report and evidence taken by a military commission of which Brigadier General Speed S. Fry was president, appointed to investigate the conduct of Brigadier General Paine, of the United States army, in and about Paducah, Kentucky.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The Senate adjourned.

THURSDAY, December 8, 1864. Link to Annals.

The honorable B. Gratz Brown, from the State of Missouri, and the honorable Charles R. Buckalew, from the State of Pennsylvania, attended.

On motion by Mr. Anthony, and by unanimous consent, it was

Ordered, That so much of the 35th rule of the Senate as requires the appointment of the standing and other committees to be made by ballot be suspended.

Mr. Anthony submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the following be the standing and select committees of the Senate during the present session:

On Foreign Relations —Mr. Sumner, chairman; Mr. Foster, Mr. Doolittle, Mr. Harris, Mr. Davis, Mr. Johnson, and Mr. McDougall.

On Finance. —Mr. Sherman, chairman; Mr. Howe, Mr. Cowan, Mr. Clark, Mr. Van Winkle, Mr. Conness, and Mr. Henderson.

On Commerce. —Mr. Chandler, chairman; Mr. Morrill, Mr. Ten Eyck, Mr. Morgan, Mr. Sprague, Mr. Saulsbury, and Mr. Lane, of Kansas.

On Manufactures. —Mr. Sprague, chairman; Mr. Morgan, Mr. Riddle, Mr. Wilkinson, and Mr. Hendricks.

On Agriculture. —Mr. Lane, of Kansas, chairman; Mr. Harlan, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Farwell, and Mr. Powell.

On Military Affairs and the Militia. —Mr. Wilson, chairman; Mr. Lane, of Indiana, Mr. Howard, Mr. Nesmith, Mr. Morgan, Mr. Sprague, and Mr. Brown.

On Naval Affairs. —Mr. Grimes, chairman; Mr. Anthony, Mr. Willey, Mr. Ramsey, Mr. Harding, Mr. Hicks, and Mr. Hendricks.

On the Judiciary. —Mr. Trumbull, chairman; Mr. Foster, Mr. Ten Eyck, Mr. Harris, Mr. Foot, Mr. Powell, and Mr. Johnson.

On Post Offices and Post Roads. —Mr. Collamer, chairman; Mr. Dixon, Mr. Ramsey, Mr. Conness, Mr. Buckalew, Mr. Pomeroy, and Mr. Van Winkle.

On Public Lands. —Mr. Harlan, chairman; Mr. Pomeroy, Mr. Foot, Mr. Harding, Mr. Carlile, Mr. Hendricks, and Mr. Wright.

On Private Land Claims. —Mr. Harris, chairman; Mr. Sumner, Mr. Howard, Mr. Riddle, and Mr. Harding.

On Indian Affairs —Mr. Doolittle, chairman; Mr. Wilkinson, Mr. Lane, of Kansas, Mr. Harlan, Mr. Nesmith, Mr. Brown, and Mr. Buckalew.

On Pensions. —Mr. Foster, chairman; Mr. Lane, of Indiana, Mr. Van Winkle, Mr. Saulsbury, Mr. Buckalew, Mr. Foot, and Mr. Brown.

On Revolutionary Claims. —Mr. Wilkinson, Chairman; Mr. Chandler, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Nesmith, and Mr. Wright.

On Claims. —Mr. Clark, chairman; Mr. Howe, Mr. Pomeroy, Mr. Anthony, Mr. Morrill, Mr. Hicks, and Mr. Davis.

On the District of Columbia —Mr. Hale, chairman; Mr. Dixon, Mr. Morrill, Mr. Wade, Mr. Willey, Mr. Henderson, and Mr. Richardson.

On Patents and the Patent Office. —Mr. Cowan, chairman; Mr. Ten Eyck, Mr. Ramsey, Mr. Lane, of Indiana, and Mr. Saulsbury. 2

0018 18

On Public Buildings and Grounds. —Mr. Foot, chairman; Mr. Trumbull, Mr. Grimes, Mr. Farwell, and Mr. Hendricks.

On Territories. —Mr. Wade, chairman; Mr. Wilkinson, Mr. Hale, Mr. Lane, of Kansas, Mr. Carlile, Mr. Davis, and Mr. Richardson.

On the Pacific Railroad —Mr. Howard, chairman; Mr. Collamer, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Harlan, Mr. Trumbull, Mr. Sherman, Mr. Morgan, Mr. Conness, and Mr. Brown.

To Audit and Control the Contingent Expenses of the Senate. —Mr. Dixon, chairman; Mr. Clark, and Mr. Harding.

On Engrossed Bills. —Mr. Lane, of Indiana, chairman; Mr. Sumner, and Mr. Willey.

On Printing. —Mr. Anthony, chairman; Mr. Morgan, and Mr. Powell.

On Enrolled Bills. —Mr. Howe, chairman; Mr. Cowan, and Mr. Hicks.

On the Library. —Mr. Collamer, chairman; Mr. Johnson, and Mr. Howard.

Select Committee on Slavery and the Treatment of Freedmen. —Mr. Sumner, chairman; Mr. Howard, Mr. Carlile, Mr. Pomeroy, Mr. Buckalew, Mr. Brown, and Mr. Conness.

On motion by Mr. Morgan,

Ordered, That the credentials of the honorable Charles Smith and the honorable R. King Cutler, senators elect from the State of Louisiana, and the proceedings of the legislature of that State in reference to their election, yesterday presented to the Senate, be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

On motion by Mr. Wade,

Ordered, That the memorial of citizens of Louisiana, remonstrating against the admission of senators or representatives from the State of Louisiana to seats in the Senate or House of Representatives, yesterday presented by him, be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Ramsey presented the memorial of B. A. Froiseth, praying further legislation to encourage foreign immigration; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Mr. Grimes presented the petition of the Washington Gas-light Company, praying that the restriction imposed by law upon the price of gas, furnished by that company, may be removed; which was referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Morgan presented the petition of William C. Bryant, Henry W. Longfellow, Horace Greely, John A. Dix, U. S. Grant, and other citizens of the United States, praying an appropriation for the founding and support of a national home for totally disabled soldiers and sailors of the army and navy of the United States; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia and ordered to be printed.

On motion by Mr. Sherman.

Ordered, That the bill (S. 350) to authorize the purchase or construction of revenue cutters on the lakes be referred to the Committee on Finance.

On motion by Mr. Lane, of Indiana,

Ordered, That the bill (S. 352) authorizing the holding of a special session of the United States district court for the district of Indiana, and for other purposes, be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary; and

That the bill (S. 353) to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company in the District of Columbia,” approved July 1, 1864, be referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Anthony presented additional papers in relation to the claim of George W. Hall and others, owners of the Bark “A 1”; which were referred to the Committee on Claims.

The President pro tempore laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of 0019 19 April 4, 1864, a statement in regard to the number of cases commenced and pending in each circuit and district court of the United States the first day of January, 1864; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

The President pro tempore laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating, in obedience to law, information in relation to the public reservations in the city of Washington, in the District of Columbia, which are occupied or used without the authority of the government; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Ordered, That so much of the President's message as relates to the subject of the finances be referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Foot asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 80) in relation to the distribution of prize money; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

On motion by Mr. Doolittle,

Ordered, That when the Senate adjourns, it be to Monday next.

On motion by Mr. Lane, of Kansas,

Ordered, That the bill (S. 351) for the relief of the officers and soldiers of the militia of the States of Kansas and Missouri, in repelling the late invasion of those States by the rebel forces under General Sterling Price, and for other purposes, be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The following message was received from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

To the Senate of the United States:

In answer to the Senate's resolution of yesterday, requesting information in regard to aid furnished to the rebellion by British subjects, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State and the documents by which it was accompanied.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

Washington, December 7, 1864.

The message was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations and be printed.

The following message was received from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

To the Senate and House of Representatives:

In conformity to the law of 16th July, 1862, I most cordially recommend that Lieutenant Wm. B. Cushing, United States navy, receive a vote of thanks from Congress for his important, gallant, and perilous achievement in destroying the rebel iron-clad steamer Albemarle, on the night of the 27th October, 1864, at Plymouth, North Carolina. The destruction of so formidable a vessel, which had resisted the continued attacks of a number of our vessels on former occasions, is an important event touching our future naval and military operations, and would reflect honor on any officer, and redounds to the credit of this young officer and the few brave comrades who assisted in this successful and daring undertaking.

This recommendation is specially made in order to comply with the requirements of the 9th section of the aforesaid act, which is in the following words, viz: “That any line officer of the navy or marine corps may be advanced one grade, if, upon recommendation of the President by name, he receives the thanks 0020 20 of Congress for highly distinguished conduct in conflict with the enemy, or for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession.”

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

Washington City, December 5, 1864.

The message was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

The following message was received from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

To the Senate and House of Representatives:

In conformity to the law of July 16, 1862, I most cordially recommend that Captain John A. Winslow, United States navy, receive a vote of thanks from Congress for the skill and gallantry exhibited by him in the brilliant action whilst in command of the United States steamer Kearsarge, which led to the total destruction of the piratical craft Alabama, on the 19th of June, 1864, a vessel superior in tonnage, superior in number of guns, and superior in number of crew.

This recommendation is specially made in order to comply with the requirements of the 9th section of the aforesaid act, which is in the following words, viz: “That any line officer of the navy or marine corps may be advanced one grade, if, upon recommendation by the President by name, he receives the thanks of Congress, for highly distinguished conduct in conflict with the enemy, or for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession.”

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

Washington City, December 5, 1864.

The message was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

On motion by Mr. Powell,

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution yesterday submitted by him, calling for the report of the military commission appointed to investigate the conduct of Brigadier General Paine, of the United States army, with the evidence taken in the investigation; and

On motion by Mr. Trumbull, that the resolution be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

After debate, and the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

MONDAY, December 12, 1864. Link to Annals.

The honorable William Sprague, from the State of Rhode Island, the honorable James Harlan, from the State of Iowa, and the honorable Jacob M. Howard, from the State of Michigan, attended.

Mr. Wade presented a petition of members of the bar of the District of Columbia, praying that the supreme court of the District of Columbia may be authorized to appoint a stenographic reporter for said court; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of officers of the eighteenth army corps, praying an increase of pay and allowances; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson presented the memorial of Thomas Wentworth Higginson, late colonel of the 1st South Carolina volunteers, praying the repeal of so much of section 4 of the act making appropriations for the army, approved July 4, 1864, as distinguishes, in respect to arrears of pay due, between colored soldiers who were free on or before April 19, 1861, and those not free until a later date; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

0021 21

Mr. Grimes presented a petition of masters in the navy, not in the line of promotion and attached to navy yards, praying to be allowed the same pay that is given to acting masters at sea; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Grimes presented the petition of Charles Fosdick Fletcher, praying the passage of an act authorizing a railroad to be built from New Orleans to St. Diego, in California, along the line of the 32d degree of north latitude, with a branch to San Francisco; which was referred to the Committee on the Pacific Railroad.

Mr. Doolittle presented the petition of Frances Elliotte, of Richland county, Wisconsin, praying to be remunerated for the loss of certain money in United States notes, occasioned by the burning of her house in January last; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Johnson presented the petition of James Crutchett, praying compensation for the occupation and use of his property in Washington, by the government, for military purposes; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Johnson presented the petition of William Cornell Jewett, praying that the points at issue in the present civil war may be referred to an international convention, subject to the action of the people.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Sherman presented a memorial of the directors of the Western Associated Press, praying a reduction of the duty on foreign printing paper; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Harlan presented two petitions of citizens of California, praying the passage of the bill (H. R. 560) to amend an act entitled “An act to grant the right of pre-emption to certain purchasers on the Soscol ranch, in the State of California;” which were referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Harlan presented a petition of soldiers of the 1st and 3d Iowa cavalry, praying to be mustered out at the expiration of the term of service of their respective regiments, agreeably to an alleged promise made to them by the mustering officer when mustered in; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Foot, from the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 114) authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to expend a portion of the contingent fund for enlarging the Navy Department building, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and, no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said resolution was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Orde?ed, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Davis, agreeably to notice, asked and obtained leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 81) for the restoration of peace and the Union, the vindication of the Constitution, and the construction of additional and adequate guarantees of the rights and liberties of the people of the United States; which was read and passed to a second reading.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Ramsey asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 354) extending the time for the completion of certain land-grant railroads in the State of Minnesota, and regulating the disposal of lands heretofore granted said State to aid in the construction of such roads; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

Ordered, That so much of the President's annual message as concerns our foreign relations be referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

0022 22

Mr. Doolittle submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Committee on Finance be instructed to inquire into the propriety of the immediate passage of an act to increase the revenue:

First. By an additional tax of one per cent. upon all sales of real and personal property, including also all bargains for the sale of merchandise, produce, gold or silver coin, or stocks of any description.

Second. By an additional tax of twenty-five per cent. upon the gross receipts, to be added to the present rates of all railroad fares, including street railroads, steamboats, and ferries, to be collected by the companies, or persons running the same, for the use of the government. And that said committee be further instructed to inquire into the propriety of the passage of a law to prevent the further expansion of the currency, by the organization of any new banking associations, except where they may take the place of some existing State bank.

And that said committee be further instructed to inquire into the propriety of redeeming all the outstanding interest-bearing legal tender notes, by issuing in their stead other notes, in denomination not less than fifty dollars each, bearing a uniform interest, from the first day of January in each year, of three and sixty-five one hundredths per cent. per annum, with coupons attached, to be paid out and to be made a legal tender for their face with interest added.

Mr. Farwell submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Commerce be instructed to inquire into the propriety of consolidating the three great districts, and for providing that licensed vessels may trade to ports on the Atlantic and Gulf posts without clearance and entry at the custom-house.

Mr. Farwell submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Commerce be instructed to inquire into the propriety of providing by law that vessels engaged in foreign trade shall employ, or take on board, American boys at least one for every five hundred tons measurement.

Mr. Farwell asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 355) to amend an act to regulate the admeasurement of tonnage of ships and vessels of the United States, passed May sixth, eighteen hundred and sixty-four; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Commerce.

The Senate resumed the consideration of the resolution submitted by Mr. Powell the 7th instant, calling for the report of the commission appointed to investigate the conduct of Brigadier General Paine, of the United States army, with the evidence taken before the commission; and,

On the question to agree to the motion of Mr. Trumbull that the resolution be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 30

Nays 8

On motion by Mr. Powell,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Dixon, Doolittle, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Howe, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Morrill, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Wade, Willey, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Davis, Hendricks, Johnson, Nesmith, Powell, Riddle, Wright.

So it was

0023 23

Ordered, That the resolution be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

TUESDAY, December 13, 1864. Link to Annals.

Mr. Sumner presented the petition of Blake Brothers & Co., praying allowance of interest on certain certificates of indebtedness issued by the government and remaining unpaid in consequence of their being lost in transitu by mail; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Howard presented a memorial of members of the grand and petit juries of the circuit and district courts of the United States for the district of Michigan at the November term, 1864, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Howard presented the memorial of N. G. Abell, collector of customs for the port of Detroit, praying to be relieved of the responsibility of accounting for certain duties collected by him and the amount which he failed to collect under the joint resolution of April 29, 1864, in consequence of his not having been notified of the passage of the resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Sumner, from the Committee on Foreign Relations, to whom the subjects was referred, reported a bill (S. 356) to authorize the President of the United States to transfer a gunboat to the government of the republic of Liberia; which was read and passed to a second reading.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (S. 350) to authorize the purchase or construction of revenue cutters on the lakes, reported it with an amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and the reported amendment having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the bill be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military forces of the United States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, and ordered to be printed.

On motion by Mr. Lane, of Kansas,

Ordered, That so much of the President's message as relates to foreign immigration be referred to the Committee on Agriculture.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 465) for the relief of Deborah Jones; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 24) to establish a uniform system of bankruptcy throughout the United States, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

0024 24

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill (H. R. 563) and two enrolled resolutions, (H. R. 106 and H. R. 114,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate fur the signature of its President.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the following bill and joint resolutions:

H. R. 563. An act in addition to the “Act respecting quarantine and health laws,” approved February 25, 1799, and for the better execution of the third section thereof.

H. R. 106. Joint resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to dispose of certain moneys therein mentioned.

H. R. 114. Joint resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to expend a portion of the contingent; fund for enlarging the Navy Department building.

The President pro tempore signed the enrolled bill (H. R. 563) and the enrolled resolutions (H. R. 106, H. R. 114) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The bill (H. R. 424) to establish a uniform system of bankruptcy throughout the United States was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

On motion by Mr. Carlile,

The Senate resumed the consideration of the bill (S. 238) to ascertain and settle private land claims in the State of California; and,

On motion by Mr. Conness,

Ordered, That it be recommitted to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Sprague presented the credentials of the honorable Henry B. Anthony, elected a senator of the United States by the legislature of the State of Rhode Island for the term of six years, commencing on the fourth day of March, 1865; which were read; and,

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

WEDNESDAY, December, 14, 1864. Link to Annals.

The honorable Willard Saulsbury, from the State of Delaware, attended.

Mr. Nesmith presented a memorial of the legislature of Oregon, in favor of the location of a national foundry, arsenal, and manufactory of arms at the falls of the Willamette, near Oregon City, in that State; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson presented a memorial of medical storekeepers in the service of the United States, praying to be allowed the pay and emoluments of surgeons in the army; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Grimes, from the Committee on Naval Affairs, to whom was referred the message of the President of the United States recommending a vote of thanks of Congress to Captain John A Winslow, United States navy, reported a joint resolution (S. 83) tendering the thanks of Congress to Captain John A. Winslow, United States navy, and to the officers and men under his command on board the United States steamer Kearsarge, in the conflict with the piratical craft the Alabama, in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th of December, 1864; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

0025 25

Mr. Grimes, from the Committee on Naval Affairs, to whom was referred the message of the President of the United States, recommending a vote of thanks of Congress to Lieutenant William B. Cushing, United States navy, reported a joint resolution (S 84) tendering the thanks of Congress to Lieutenant William B. Cushing, United States navy, and to the officers and men who assisted him in his gallant and perilous achievement in destroying the rebel steamer Alabama, in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th of December, 1864; which was read the first and second times by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia to whom was referred the joint resolution (S 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military forces of the United States, reported it without amendment.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

Ordered, That the Committee on the Judiciary be discharged from the further consideration of the following subjects:

Resolution submitted by Mr. Davis on the 28th of June relative to the pardon of William Yokum, confined in the penitentiary at Albany, New York.

Memorial of the grand and petit jurors of the circuit and district courts of the United States for the district of Michigan at the November term, 1864.

Petitions of members of the bar of the District of Columbia for the appointment of a stenographic reporter for the supreme court of said District.

Mr. Trumbull, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (S. 352) authorizing the holding of a special session of the United States district court for the district of Indiana, and for other purposes, reported it with amendments.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and the reported amendments having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate and the amendments were concurred in.

Ordered, That the bill be engrossed and lead a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull, the title was amended to read An act authorizing the holding of a special session of the United States district Court for the district of Indiana.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Brown submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be, and they are hereby instructed to inquire into the expediency of repealing the act of Congress of March 2, 1861, entitled “An act to remove the United States arsenal from the city of St. Louis, and to provide for the sale of the lands on which the same is located,” and report by bill or otherwise.

Mr. Chandler submitted the following resolution; which was ordered to be printed:

Whereas, at the commencement of the present rebellion, the United States were at peace with all the governments of the world, and upon terms of comi?y and good will with Great Britain; and whereas that nation, before the arrival ?n her soil of our minister accredited by the administration of President Lincoln, precipitately 0026 26 acknowledged the rebels as belligerents, thus recognizing their flag upon the ocean, without which recognition it would have been regarded and treated as piratical by all other powers; and whereas she then proclaimed perfect neutrality between a republic with which she had entertained friendly relations for upwards of a half-century and its treasonable subjects; and whereas numbers of her subjects, with the knowledge of her government, commenced fitting out British fast-sailing ships, loaded with munitions of war, for the purpose of running into our blockaded ports to the rebels, rims furnishing them the means of organizing and continuing the rebellion, and without which it could not have sustained itself six months; and whereas, in addition to the above, and with the knowledge of the government, British subjects and members of Parliament engaged in the manufacture of piratical English ships, owned by British subjects, manned by British seamen, and sailing under British colors, for the purpose of burning, destroying, and utterly driving from the ocean all peaceful merchant vessels sailing under the United States flag; and whereas many private and unarmed American ships have been burned and destroyed by these pirates from British ports, thus causing great loss and damage to the citizens of the United States: Therefore,

Resolved, That the Secretary of State be instructed immediately to make out a list of each ship and cargo thus destroyed, with a fair and separate valuation thereof, and interest thereon at the rate of six per cent. per annum from the date of capture or destruction to the date of presentation, and that he be directed to demand from the British government payment in full for all ships and cargoes destroyed as aforesaid.

Mr. Chandler submitted the following resolution; which was ordered to be printed:

Whereas raids have been organized in the Canadas and Nova Scotia, and men enlisted in said British provinces by men purporting to hold commissions from the rebels of the United States, for the purpose of robbing and murdering peaceable citizens of the United States, of burning cities and villages, of piratically capturing merchant vessels and murdering their crews, and for a general system of murder, arson, robberies, and plunder of the peaceable and unarmed citizens of the United States; and whereas the people of the British provinces seem disposed to protect these thieves, robbers, incendiaries, pirates, and murderers, not only in their individual capacities, but by the quibbles of the law: Therefore,

Resolved, That the Committee on Military Affairs be directed to inquire into the expediency of immediately enlisting an army corps to watch and defend our territory bordering on the lakes and Canadian line from all hostile demonstrations and incursions.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed the following bill and joint resolution, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate:

H. R. 595. An act to amend an act entitled “An act for the punishment of crimes in the District of Columbia,” approved March 2, 1831.

H. R. 56. Joint resolution authorizing the President of the United States to give to the government of Great Britain the notice required for the termination of the treaty of the 5th of June, anne Domini 1854.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, having signed an enrolled bill, (H. R. 465,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

On motion by Mr. Ramsey,

Ordered, That the bill (S. 354) extending the time for the completion of certain land-grant railroads in the State of Minnesota, and regulating the disposal of lands heretofore granted to said State to aid in the construction of such roads, be printed.

0027 27

The bill and joint resolution last received from the House of Representatives for concurrence were read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That the bill (H. R. 695) be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and that the joint resolution (H. R. 56) be referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the bill (H. R. 465) for the relief of Deborah Jones.

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution submitted by. Mr. Doolittle, the 12th instant, instructing the Committee on Finance to inquire into the expediency of the immediate passage of an act to increase the revenue by additional taxation; and

The resolution was agreed to.

The President pro tempore signed the enrolled bill (H. R. 465) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

THURSDAY, December 15, 1864. Link to Annals.

The honorable William A. Richardson, from the State of Illinois attended.

Mr. Willey presented a memorial of the Franklin Insurance Company of Washington, in the District of Columbia, praying an extension and an amendment of their charter; which was referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Cowan presented a petition of citizens of Pennsylvania, praying the repeal of the law taxing cigars, and that the tax be placed on the raw material; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of officers of the army, praying an increase of their pay and allowances; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed the bill of the Senate (S. 350) to authorize the purchase or construction of revenue cutters on the lakes; and

It has passed the bill of the Senate (S. 329) for the relief of William H. Jameson, a paymaster in the United States army, with an amendment, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

It has also passed the following bills, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate:

H. R. 583. An act to amend the twenty-first section of an act entitled “An act to define the pay and emoluments of certain officers of the army, and for other purposes,” approved July 17, 1862.

H. R. 586. An act to drop from the rolls of the army unemployed general officers.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 123) to correct certain clerical errors in the internal revenue act, I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The President pro tempore laid before the Senate duplicate copies of the laws, memorials, and resolutions of the Territory of Dakota, passed at the session of the legislative assembly commencing December 7, 1863, and concluded January 15, 1864; which were referred to the Committee on Territories.

Mr. Foot presented the petition of James B. Royce, praying to be allowed the bounty of one hundred dollars provided by law in cases of discharge by reason of disability occasioned by wounds received in battle; which was referred to the Committee on Pensions.

0028 28

Mr. Riddle asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 357) for the relief of Olivia W. Cannon, widow of Joseph S. Cannon, late a midshipman in the United States navy; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and, with the petition and papers on file, referred to the Committee on Pensions.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 380) for the relief of George W. Murray; and, no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The bill (S. 316) for the relief of Reuben Clough was read the second time and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 307) to regulate commerce among the several States; and,

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to, and made the special order of the day for, Wednesday, the fourth day of January next, at one o'clock, two-thirds of the senators present agreeing thereto.

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution yesterday submitted by him directing the Secretary of State to mike out a list of American ships and cargoes destroyed by piratical cruisers fitted out in British ports, and demand of the British government indemnification therefor; and,

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

Ordered, That the resolution be referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

On motion by Mr Chandler,

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution yesterday submitted by him in relation to the expediency of organizing an army corps to watch and defend our territory bordering on the lakes and Canadian line from hostile demonstrations and incursions; and,

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

Ordered, That the resolution be referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Mr. Sumner submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested, if not inconsistent with the public interest, to furnish to the Senate any information on the files of the Department of State concerning the paper published in the volume of Treaties and entitled “Arrangement between the United States and Great Britain between Richard Rush, esquire, acting as Secretary of State, and Charles Begot, his Britannic Majesty's envoy extraordinary,” relating to the naval force to be maintained upon the American lakes.

Mr. Brown submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

0029 29

Resolved, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be, and they are hereby, instructed to inquire into the expediency of so amending the act of Congress of March 8, 1792, entitled “An act more effectually to provide for the national defence by establishing an uniform militia throughout the United States,” and also the several acts amendatory of the same, as shall provide for the enrolment of all male citizens between the ages of eighteen and forty-five, resident in the respective States, without respect to color; and also to submit such other provisions as may tend more effectually to organize the militia system of the United States, and report by bill or otherwise.

Mr. Lane, of Kansas, submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War be instructed to inquire as to the truth of the alleged charge that large numbers of disloyal persons are in the employ of the government in the various navy yards, quartermaster and ordnance depots throughout the country to the exclusion of loyal men; with power, on the part of said committee, to send for persons and papers.

Mr. Anthony submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War be directed to inquire into and report the facts concerning the attack on Petersburg on the 30th day of July, 1864.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

The bill (S. 356) to authorize the President of the United States to transfer a gunboat to the government of the republic of Liberia was read the second time and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

On the question, Shall the bill pass?

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 33

Nays 9

On motion by Mr. Powell,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs Anthony, Brown, Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Cowan, Dixon, Doolittle, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Howard, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Sprag?e, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Wade, Wilkinson, Willey, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Carlile, Davis, Harding, Hendricks, Nesmith, Powell, Riddle, Wright.

So it was

Resolved, That the bill pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The bill (S. 281) for the relief of Alexander J. Atocha was read the second time and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and having been amended on the motion of Mr. Foster,

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to to-morrow.

The President pro tempore signed the enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 123) to correct certain clerical errors in the internal revenue act, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

0030 30

On motion by Mr. Foot,

Ordered, That when the Senate adjourns, it be to Monday next.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 20) extending the benefits of the bounty granted by the act of July 22, 1861, to certain soldiers who entered the service of the United States prior to May 3, 1861; and,

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That it be recommitted to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the following bills:

S. 103. Bill to define the rank, pay, and emoluments of the chaplains in the United States army and volunteer force, and for other purposes.

S. 231. Bill concerning the subsistence and pay of the army; and,

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That they be recommitted to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 261) to provide for the voluntary enlistment of any persons residents of certain States into the regiments of other States; and,

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That it be recommitted to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The bill (S. 284) to increase the efficiency of the staff of the army was read the second time and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and,

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That it be recommitted to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (S. 93) to repeal so much of the acts of Congress, approved March 3, 1845, and August 6, 1846, as authorize the transportation of goods imported from foreign countries through the United States to the Canadas, or from the Canadas through the United States, to be exported to foreign countries; and,

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

Ordered, That it be recommitted to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

The bills (H. R. 583 and H. R. 586) this day received from the House of Representatives for concurrence were read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The Senate proceeded to consider the amendment of the House of Representatives to the bill of the Senate (S. 329) for the relief of William H. Jameson, a paymaster in the United States army; and

Resolved, That the Senate agree thereto.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the joint resolution (S. 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military forces of the United States; and,

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

MONDAY, December 19, 1864. Link to Annals.

The Hon. John P. Hale, from the State of New Hampshire, attended.

Mr. Ten Eyck presented the petition of Elias H. Chambers, praying to be indemnified for loss of certain United States treasury notes, destroyed by fire while in his possession; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Ramsey presented the petition of Willis A. Gorman, praying to be allowed to exculpate himself, before a committee of the Senate, from what he deems an unjust imputation upon his character, contained in the averment of the act for the relief of Richard G. Murphy, approved July 2, 1864, and to expose an alleged fraud upon the government involved in the passage of that act; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Sumner presented the petition of Henry Ward Beecher and three thousand others, citizens of New York, praying the abolition and prohibition of slavery in the United States; which was referred to the Select Committee on Slavery and Freedmen.

Mr. Wilson presented two petitions of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of their pay; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Grimes presented two petitions of citizens of Iowa, praying that the required notice may be authorized to be given for the termination of the reciprocity treaty with Great Britain; which were referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Mr. Grimes presented a petition of acting assistant paymasters, attached to the Mississippi squadron, praying that they may be allowed the pay and rank of lieutenants in the navy; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Anthony presented the petition of Benjamin Vreeland, surgeon United States navy, praying to be allowed the difference between the compensation of an assistant surgeon and passed assistant surgeon, from the date of his being entitled by law to an examination until the time of his passing examination; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Trumbull presented a petition of citizens of Illinois, praying the passage of a general bankrupt act; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Hendricks presented a petition of citizens of California, praying the passage of the bill of the House (H. R. 560) to amend an act entitled “An act to grant the right of pre-emption to certain purchasers on the Soscol ranch, in the State of California;” which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 583) to amend the twenty-first section of an act entitled “An act to define the pay and emoluments of certain officers of the army, and for other purposes,” approved July 17, 1862, reported it without amendment.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be discharged from the consideration of the following bills and joint resolutions:

H. R. 261. An act to provide for the voluntary enlistment of any persons residents of certain States into the regiments of other States.

S. 103. Bill to define the rank, pay, and emoluments of chaplains in the United States army, and for other purposes.

S. 231. Bill concerning the subsistence and pay of the army.

S. 20. Joint resolution extending the benefits of the bounty granted by the 0032 32 act of July 22, 1861, to certain soldiers who entered the service of the United States prior to May 3, 1861.

Mr. Foot was, on his motion, excused from serving as a member of the Committee on the Judiciary.

Ordered, That the President pro tempore appoint a member to fill the vacancy in the said committee.

Mr. Hale was on his motion, excused from acting as chairman of the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Grimes asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 358) to establish the grade of vice-admiral in the United States navy; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Doolittle asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 361) to enable the President to expend the s?m of ten millions of dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, in his opinion, in building fortifications and floating batteries to defend our northern frontier and the commerce of the lakes against the attacks of piratical and hostile expeditions organized in the British provinces by the enemies of the United States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

On motion by Mr. Doolittle that the bill be referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations,

After debate,

It was determined in the affirmative.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the following bills and joint resolutions:

S. 329. An act for the relief of William H. Jameson, a paymaster in the United States army.

S. 350. An act to authorize the purchase or construction of revenue cutters on the lakes.

S. 352. An act authorizing the holding of a special session of the United States district court for the district of Indiana.

H. R. 380. An act for the relief of George W. Murray.

S. 83. Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Captain John A. Winslow, United States navy, and to the officers and men under his command on board the United States steamer “Kearsarge” in her conflict with the piratical craft “Alabama,” in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th of December, 1864.

S. 84 Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Lieutenant William B. Cushing, United States navy, and to the officers and men who assisted him in his gallant and perilous achievement in destroying the rebel steamer “Albemarle,” in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th December, 1864.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they presented to the President of the United States, on the fifteenth instant, the following enrolled bill and joint resolutions:

H. R. 563. An act in addition to the “Act respecting quarantine and health laws,” approved February 25, 1799, and for the execution of the third section thereof.

H. R. 106. Joint resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to dispose of certain moneys therein mentioned.

H. R. 114. Joint resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to expend a portion of the contingent fund for enlarging the Navy Department building.

Mr. Lane, of Kansas, asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 360) to enable the people of Colorado to form a constitution and State government, and for the admission of such State into the Union on 0033 33 an equal footing with the original States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Territories.

Mr. Lane, of Kansas, asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 85) authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to issue certain bonds to the Secretary of the Interior for feeding the refugee Indians; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Harlan presented a letter of the governor of the Territory of Colorado, transmitting the proceedings of a meeting of citizens of Colorado Territory, protesting against the application of any system of tenantry in the operations of their mines, and praying the grant of at least one thousand lineal feet of each lode to such person as shall hereafter discover and develop the same, and that the miners' titles, as at present held by them, may be confirmed by Congress; that a mining bureau may be established in the Interior Department, and a geological survey of our mineral regions provided for; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Harlan presented a memorial of the presbytery of Cincinnati, Ohio, praying such an amendment of the Constitution as will more fully recognize the obligations of the Christian religion; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Henderson presented a memorial of the board of directors of the Western Associated Press, praying a reduction of the duty on foreign printing paper; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Henderson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 359) to reimburse the State of Missouri for moneys expended for the United States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Henderson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 86) to provide against periodical rebel invasions into Missouri, and to protect the interests of the government on the western border; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, and ordered to be printed.

On motion by Mr. Dixon,

Ordered, That so much of the 35th rule of the Senate as relates to the appointment of the chairmen of committees be suspended as regards the appointment of the chairman of the Committee on the District of Columbia, and that the said chairman be appointed by the President of the Senate pro tempore.

Mr. Brown submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to transmit to the Senate, if not incompatible with the interests of the public service, the report made by Major General Herron, in compliance with orders instructing him to inspect the military department of Arkansas.

Mr. Powell submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the President be requested to communicate to the Senate all information in his possession bearing on the arrest and imprisonment of Colonel Richard T. Jacob, lieutenant governor of the State of Kentucky, and Colonel Frank Wolford, one of the presidential electors of that State; particularly by whose order they were arrested and imprisoned, where they are at present confined, and what offences are charged against them.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed the following bill and joint resolutions of the Senate:

S. 352. An act authorizing the holding of a special session of the United States district court for the district of Indiana; 3

0034 34

S. 83. Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Captain John A. Winslow, United States navy, and to the officers and men under his command, on board the United States steamer “Kearsarge,” in the conflict with the piratical craft, the “Alabama,” in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th of December, 1864;

S. 84 Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Lieutenant William B. Cushing, United States navy, and to the officers and men who assisted him in his gallant and perilous achievement in destroying the rebel steamer “Albemarle,” in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th of December, 1864; and

It has passed the following bills and joint resolution, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate:

H. R. 597. An act making appropriations for the payment of invalid and other pensions of the United States for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866.

H. R. 598. An act making appropriations for the consular and diplomatic expenses of the government for the year ending 30th June, 1866.

H. R. 601. An act supplementary to an act entitled “An act to enable the people of Nevada to form a constitution and State government, and for the admission of such State into the Union on an equal footing with the original States.”

H. R. 603. An act to extend the time allowed for the withdrawal of certain goods therein named from public st?res.

H. R. 124. Joint resolution explanatory of the act entitled “An act to provide internal revenue to support the government, to pay interest on the public debt, and for other purposes,” approved June 30, 1864.

The House of Representatives has passed a resolution that when the House adjourns on Thursday next, it be to meet on Thursday the fifth of January, 1865; in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed two enrolled bills, (S. 329 and S.350,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution of the House of Representatives providing that when the House adjourns on Thursday next it be to meet on Thursday the 5th of January, 1865; and

The resolution having been amended, on the motion of Mr. Sherman, to read as follows:

Resolved, (the Senate concurring,) That when the two houses adjourn on

Thursday the 22d instant, they adjourn to meet on Thursday, January 5, 1865;

On the question, Shall the resolution, as amended, pass?

It was determined in the affirmative.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendments of the Senate to the said resolution.

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

Ordered, That the Committee on the District of Columbia be discharged from the further consideration of the bill (H. R. 517) Go incorporate the National Insurance Company of Washington.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and

On motion by Mr. Grimes,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to to-morrow.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (S. 62) to remove all disqualification of color in carrying the mails; and the amendment reported by the committee having been amended on the motion of Mr. Powell,

On the question to agree to the amendment as amended,

0035 35

It was determined in the negative.

No amendment being made to the bill, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

On the question, Shall the bill pass?

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 26

Nays 5

On motion by Mr. Powell,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Clark, Conness, Dixon, Doolittle, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Van Winkle, Wilkinson, Willey, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Davis, Powell, Richardson, Riddle, Wright.

So it was

Resolved, That the bill pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 394) for the relief of Mary Scales Accardi; and the amendment reported by the committee having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 452) to grant a pension of eight dollars per month to Harris Welch; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

Resolved, That the bill be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 390) for the relief of Emily A. Lyon; and the amendment reported by the committee having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 478) for the relief of Charles Mr. Pott; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The bill (S. 347) for the relief of Rebecca S. Harrison was read the second 0036 36 time, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill, was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

The President pro tempore signed the enrolled bills (S. 329 and S. 350) this day reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The bills and joint resolution this day received from the He, usa of Representatives for concurrence were read the first and second times by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That the bills H. R. 597, H. R. 595, H. R. 603, and the joint resolution H. R. 124, be referred to the Committee on Finance; and that the bill H. R. 601 be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Hendricks asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 362) to amend the third section of an act entitled “An act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the government for the year ending 30th of June, 1865, and for other purposes,” approved July 2, 1864; which was read the first and second times by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill (S. 352) and two enrolled joint resolutions, (S. 83 and S. 84,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military forces of the United States; and the resolution having been amended on the motion of Mr. Wilson,

On motion by Mr. Davis to refer the resolution to the Committee on the Judiciary,

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

TUESDAY, December 20, 1864. Link to Annals.

Mr. Morgan presented the memorial of A. M. Conrey and H. S. Jaudon, praying that the Secretary of the Treasury may be authorized to pay to them a certain amount of money, seized by Major General Butler at New Orleans, and remitted by him to the Treasury Department, the same having been previously confiscated in the hands of the Southern Bank of New Orleans by the rebel government; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Morgan presented the memorial of Catharine Harleston, praying to be remunerated for damages to her house and furniture, occasioned by the shelling of her house on the Seventh street road in the District of Columbia, during the rebel invasion in the month of July last, as is alleged, by order of the President of the United States; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Hendricks presented a petition of officers in the Subsistence department, praying that the officers of that department may be placed on an equality with those of the Quartermaster's department in respect to promotion; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

Ordered, That the petition of Charles Taylor, on the files of the Senate, be referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Wilson presented three petitions of officers in the military service of the 0037 37 United States, praying an increase of pay; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson presented the memorial of Selina Barclay, praying remuneration for the loss of her property occasioned by the burning of the navy yard at Portsmouth, Virginia, in April, 1861; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Wilson presented the memorial of James N. Carpenter, paymaster United States navy, praying indemnity for the destruction of his property during the battles which were fought near Fredericksburg; for horses and cattle impressed into the service of the United States, and for the loss of certain bank stock confiscated by the rebel government; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Hale presented the memorial of Edmund F. Brown, praying payment of an alleged balance due him for services as notary public and United States commissioner, in taking depositions of witnessess in the case of the Great Falls Manufacturing Company against the United States; which was referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Hale presented the memorial of Sister Ann Simeon Norris, Mother Superior of the Sisters of Charity, praying that the material for the manufacture of the uniform worn by the Sisters of Charity may be imported free of duty; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Ramsey presented the memorial of David Wills, president of the Soldiers' National Cemetery Association, praying an appropriation to aid in the erection of a monument to the memory of the soldiers who fell in the battles of Gettysburg; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, and ordered to be printed.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 618) to amend the act entitled “An act to provide internal revenue to support the government, to pay interest on the public debt, and for other purposes,” approved June 30, 1864, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

Mr. Grimes presented a petition of acting assistant surgeons attached to the Mississippi squadron, praying an increase of pay; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Foot presented eight petitions of citizens of Vermont, praying that the requisite notice may be authorized to be given to the government of Great Britain for the termination of the reciprocity treaty.

Ordered, That they lie on the table

Mr. Sumner, from the Committee on Foreign Relations, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 56) authorizing the President of the United States to give to the government of Great Britain the notice required for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of the 5th of June, anno Domini 1854, reported it with an amendment.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

Ordered, That the Committee on Foreign Relations be discharged from the further consideration of the joint resolution (S. 12) requiring the President of the United States to give the government of Great Britain the notice required for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of the 5th of June, 1854; and from the further consideration of sundry memorials and petitions relating to the subject, referred to the committee at the last session

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 603) to extend the time allowed for the withdrawal of certain goods therein named from public stores, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole, and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

0038 38

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Dixon, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom was referred a memorial of the Washington Gas-light Company, reported a bill (S. 363) to amend the charter of the Washington Gas-light Company; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to to-morrow.

Mr Grimes, from the Committee on Naval Affairs, to whom was referred the bill (S. 358) to establish the grade of vice-admiral in the United States navy, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Wilson, agreeably to notice, asked, and obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 364) to increase the number of cadets in, and to raise the standard of admission to, the Military Academy; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Harlan, from the Committee on Public Lands, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 560) to amend an act of Congress entitled “An act, to grant the right of pre-emption to certain purchasers on the Soscol ranch, in the State of California,” reported it with amendments.

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

Ordered, That the Committee on Public Lands be discharged from the further consideration of sundry petitions relating to purchasers on the Soscol ranch, in the State of California.

Mr. Pomeroy, from the Committee on Public Lands, to whom was referred the bill (S. 354) extending the time for the completion of certain land-grant railroads in the State of Minnesota, and regulating the disposal of lands heretofore granted said State to aid in the construction of such roads, reported it with amendments.

Mr. Pomeroy, from the Committee on Public Lands, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. 33) to enable the Secretary of the Treasury to obtain the title to certain property in Carson City, and Territory of Nevada, for the purposes of a branch mint located in said place, reported it without amendment.

Mr. Foster asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 365) in relation to pensions; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Pensions, and ordered to be printed.

The bill (H. R. 618) last received from the House of Representatives for concurrence was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Wilkinson submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Whereas the large number of officers and enlisted men belonging to the armies of the United States which are now held as prisoners of war by our enemies and being treated in the most cruel and barbarous manner, deprived of necessary food and clothing, often left exposed to the weather without fuel, 0039 39 blankets, or clothing, or even a shelter over them; and whereas, from such inhuman treatment, thousands of our brave soldiers have died from starvation and unnecessary exposure, while thousands who survive are, from their extreme sufferings, wholly unable to render further service in the army; and whereas every possible effort has been made by the government and people of the United States to induce the rebel authorities to pursue a more humane policy towards these prisoners, and to relieve their sufferings, which efforts have been of no avail, while, on the other hand, supplies of food and clothing which have been forwarded to them have seldom reached their destination, but have been appropriated to the use of the enemy, thus proving that the rebel authorities not only refused to feed and clothe our soldiers themselves, but they refuse to let the government or people of the United States do so: Therefore,

Resolved, That, in the opinion of Congress, it would be wise and proper for the Secretary of War to direct that the rations, clothing, and supplies to be furnished to the rebel prisoners in our hands be limited in amount and kind to those furnished by the rebel authorities to Union troops held by them as prisoners of war; and that they be treated, in all respects, as the Union prisoners are treated by the rebel authorities.

Mr. Harlan submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Committee on the District of Columbia be instructed to inquire into the expediency and propriety of requiring all residents of the District of Columbia to take and file with the provost marshal for said District an oath of allegiance or fidelity to the government of the United States, similar to the oath required by law of members and senators in Congress and other officers of the government; and, also, the expediency and propriety of prohibiting all persons from doing business in said District, or with the several departments of the government, who have not or may not take and file such oath; and that said committee have leave to report by bill or otherwise.

Mr. Lane, of Kansas, submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Interior be instructed to communicate to the Senate information as to the quantity of land which has been actually sold under the provisions of the 4th and 5th articles of the treaty made by the United States with the Sac and Fox Indians of the Mississippi, October 1, A. D. 1859, and ratified July 9, A. D. 1860; the price per acre at which said lands were sold; what opportunity the people of Kansas have had to compete in the purchase of same; whether any bids are now on file in the Interior Department for the purchase of any portions of said lands; if so, then for what amount of land, and whether at a price above or below the appraised value of said lands; if any of said lands have been sold, what was received for them—money or scrip; if scrip, then what kind of scrip; if any bids for the purchase of any of said lands are now before the department, what is it proposed by the department to receive in pay for lands on said bids—money or scrip; if scrip, then what kind of scrip; was the land already sold purchased by citizens of Kansas, or speculators; and, also, to communicate to the Senate any and all other information the said Secretary of the Interior may have as to the sale of said lands, and the probability of selling the same so as to pay therefrom the indebtedness of said Indians.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military forces of the United States.

On motion by Mr. Powell to postpone the further consideration of the joint resolution, and that the Senate proceed to the consideration of the resolution yesterday submitted by him, calling for information in relation to the arrest and imprisonment of Colonel Richard T. Jacob, lieutenant governor of Kentucky, and Colonel Frank Wolford, one of the presidential electors of said State,

0040 40

It was determined in the affirmative; and

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution; and the resolution having been amended on the motion of Mr. Wilson, it was agreed to as amended, as follows:

Resolved, That the President be requested to communicate to the Senate, if, in his opinion, not incompatible with the public interest, all information in his possession bearing on the arrest and imprisonment of Colonel Richard T. Jacob, lieutenant governor of the State of Kentucky, and Colonel Frank Wolford, one of the presidential electors of that State; particularly by whose order they were arrested and imprisoned, where they are at present confined, and what offences are charged against them.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has agreed to the amendments of the Senate to the resolution of the House in relation to a proposed adjournment on Thursday, the 22d of December, to Thursday, the 5th of January next; and

It has passed a bill (H. R. 622) to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company in the District of Columbia,” approved July 1, 1864, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The House of Representatives has passed the bill of the Senate (S. 358) to establish the grade of vice-admiral in the United States navy.

The House of Representatives has disagreed to the amendments of the Senate to the bill of the House (H. R. 51) to establish a Bureau of Freedmen's Affairs. It asks a conference on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon, and has appointed Mr. Eliot, Mr. Kelley, and Mr. Noble managers at the same on its part.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill, (H. R. 380,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The President pro tempore, under the order of the Senate of yesterday, appointed Mr. Dixon chairman of the Committee on the District of Columbia.

The President appointed Mr. Hale to fill the vacancy in the Committee on the Judiciary, in the place of Mr. Foot, who was excused from further service on said committee.

On motion by Mr. Wilkinson,

The Senate proceeded, by unanimous consent, to consider the resolution this day submitted by him, in relation to the cruel treatment of Union prisoners in the rebel prisons, and the course proper to be adopted in reference thereto; and

On motion by Mr. Wilkinson,

Ordered, That the resolution be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Sprague,

Ordered, That so much of the report of the Secretary of the Navy as relates to sailing under foreign bunting, and so much of the President's message as relates to the manufactures of the country, be referred to the Committee on Manufactures.

The bill (H. R. 622) last received from the House of Representatives for concurrence was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

The Senate proceeded to consider its amendments to the bill of the House (H. R. 51) to establish a Bureau of Freedmen's Affairs, disagreed to by the House of Representatives; and

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

Resolved, That the Senate insist upon its amendments to the said bill disagreed to by the House of Representatives, and agree to the conference asked by the House on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon.

0041 41

Ordered, That the conferees on the part of the Senate be appointed by the President pro tempore; and

The President pro tempore appointed Mr. Sumner, Mr. Howard, and Mr. Buckalew.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

The President pro tempore signed the enrolled bills (S. 352 and H. R. 380) and the enrolled joint resolutions (S. 83 and S. 84) yesterday reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 623) to amend an act entitled “An act to provide for carrying the mails from the United States to foreign ports, and for other purposes,” approved March 25, 1864, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military forces of the United States; and

After debate, and the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

WEDNESDAY, December 21, 1864. Link to Annals.

Mr. Collamer presented two petitions of citizens of New York, praying the repeal of the fourth section of the act entitled “An act to provide for carrying the mails from the United States to foreign ports, and for other purposes,” approved March 25, 1864, imposing restrictions upon mailable matter; which were referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Howard presented a petition of surgeons and assistant surgeons in the United States army, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Howard presented a petition of clerks in the Treasury Department, praying an increase of pay; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Saulsbury presented the petition of Benjamin S. Compton, praying compensation for seven hundred and eighty-two bales of cotton alleged to have been seized by a military expedition under the command of General Ransom, and shipped to the port of Memphis, and sold on account of the government; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Anthony presented the petition of Edwin M. Chaffee, praying an extension of letters patent granted to him August 31, 1836, for the “machine patent,” so called, used in the manufacture of India-rubber; which was referred to the Committee on Patents and the Patent Office.

Mr. Sherman presented the petition of the widow of Rev. Samuel Hibben, praying payment for services rendered by him as chaplain of the 4th regiment Illinois cavalry from February 10, 1862, to the time of his death, in June of that year; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 597) making appropriations for the payment of invalid and other pensions of the United States for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866, reported it without amendment.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 618) to amend the act entitled “An act to provide internal revenue to support the government, to pay interest on the public debt, and for other purposes,” approved June 30, 1864, reported it without amendment.

0042 42

Mr. Cowan reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the following bills:

S. 358. An act to establish the grade of vice-admiral in the United States navy.

H. R. 478. An act for the relief of Charles M. Pott.

H. R. 603. An act to extend the time allowed for the withdrawal of certain goods therein named from public stores.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed the following bills and joint resolution, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate:

H. R. 607. An act to provide for an advance of rank to officers of the navy and marine corps for distinguished merit.

H. R. 625. An act to amend an act entitled “An act making appropriations for the support of the army for the year ending 30th June, 1865, and for other purposes,” approved June 15, 1864.

H. R. 128. Joint resolution providing for the appointment of a commissioner to locate one or more navy yards and depots on the northwestern waters.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed three enrolled bills, (S. 358, H. R. 478, and H. R. 603) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The President pro tempore signed the three enrolled bills (S. 358, H. R. 478, and H. R. 603) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The bills and joint resolution last received from the House of Representatives for concurrence were read the first and second times by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That the bill H. R. 607 and the joint resolution H. R. 128 be referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs, and that the bill H. R. 625 be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The bill H. R. 623 yesterday received from the House of Representatives for concurrence was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Anthony submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Navy be directed to communicate to the Senate the report of the board of visitors of the Naval Academy for the present year.

Mr. McDougall submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be directed to inquire into the expediency of requiring by law that all officers not on leave of absence be required to carry on their persons their uniforms.

Mr. Hale asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 366) to remit certain duties on clothing materials imported for the use of the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Lane, of Indiana, asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 87) in reference to paymasters' accounts; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The President pro tempore laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Navy, communicating, in obedience to law, a statement showing the appropriations for the naval service for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1864, the expenditures for the same period, and the balance on hand; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

The President pro tempore laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating, in obedience to law, copies of accounts of the 0043 43 superintendents and agents having in charge the refugee Creek, Choctaw, Chickasaw, and Seminole Indians, for the second quarter of 1864; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Trumbull presented a petition of the crier and bailiffs of the United States courts in the District of Columbia, praying an increase of pay; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Trumbull asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 367) to repeal the provision of law requiring certain Regents of the Smithsonian Institution to be members of the National Institute; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they yesterday presented to the President of the United States the following enrolled bills and joint resolutions:

S. 329. An act for the relief of William H. Jameson, a paymaster in the United States army.

S. 350. An act to authorize the purchase or construction of revenue cutters on the lakes.

S. 352. An act authorizing the holding of a special session of the United States district court for the district of Indiana.

S. 83. Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Captain John A. Winslow, United States navy, and to the officers and men under his command, on board the United States steamer Kearsarge, in her conflict with the piratical craft the “Alabama,” in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th of December, 1864.

S. 84. Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Lieutenant William B. Cushing, of the United States navy, and to the officers and men who assisted him in his gallant and perilous achievement in destroying the rebel steamer “Albemarle,” in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th of December, 1864.

H. R. 380. An act for the relief of George W. Murray.

A message from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary.

Mr. President: The President of the United States approved and signed, on the 20th instant, the following acts and joint resolutions:

S. 329. An act for the relief of William H. Jameson, a paymaster in the United States army.

S. 350. An act to authorize the purchase or construction of revenue cutters on the lakes.

S. 352. An act authorizing the holding of a special session of the United States district court for the district of Indiana.

S. 83. A resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Captain John A. Winslow, United States navy, and to the officers and men under his command, on board the United States steamer Kearsarge, in her conflict with the piratical craft the “Alabama,” in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th of December, 1864.

S. 84. A resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Lieutenant William B. Cushing, of the United States navy, and to the officers and men who assisted him in his gallant and perilous achievement in destroying the rebel steamer “Albemarle,” in compliance with the President's recommendation to Congress of the 5th of December, 1864.

0044 44

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 618) to amend the act entitled “An act to provide internal revenue to support the government, to pay interest on the public debt, and for other purposes,” approved June 30, 1864; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

On the question, Shall the bill pass?

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 23

Nays 12

On motion by Mr. Johnson,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Collamer, Conness, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Hale, Harlan, Henderson, Howard, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Wilkinson, Willey.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Cowan, Davis, Grimes, Hendricks, Johnson, McDougall, Powell, Richardson, Saulsbury, Trumbull, Van Winkle.

So it was

Resolved, That the bill pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Dixon,

The Senate resumed the consideration of the bill (S. 363) to amend the charter of the Washington Gas-light Company.

On motion by Mr. Dixon to amend the bill by striking out, after the word “than,” in line 11, the words “the average net or cash price which may be charged, as aforesaid, in the capitals of the States of Maryland, Pennsylvania. New Jersey, and New York, and that from the above price five per centum shall be deducted on all gas furnished to the general government,” and in lieu thereof, inserting, Forty cents per hundred cubic feet, subject to a discount of ten per centum on all bills for gas furnished to the general government, and five per centum on all bills for gas furnished to other consumers, if paid at the office of the company within seven days from the rendition thereof.

It was determined in the affirmative.

No further amendment being made to the bill,

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution yesterday submitted by him, to instruct the Committee on the District of Columbia to inquire into the expediency of requiring by law the oath of allegiance to be taken by all residents of the District, and by all persons doing business in said District, or prosecuting claims against the government before any of the departments; and

After debate,

On the question to agree to the resolution,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 24

Nays 10

On motion by Mr. Saulsbury,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, Foster, 0045 45 Grimes, Hale, Harlan, Howard, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Pomeroy, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Wilkinson, Willey.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Brown, Buckalew, Cowan, Davis, Henderson, Hendricks, Johnson, Powell, Richardson, Saulsbury.

So the resolution was agreed to.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the joint. resolution (H. R. 56) authorizing the President of the United States to give to the government of Great Britain the notice required for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of the 5th of June, anno Domini 1854; and the amendment reported by the committee having been agreed to, the resolution was reported to the Senate and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed, and the resolution read a third time.

The said resolution, as amended, was read the third time.

On the question, Shall the resolution pass?

On motion by Mr. Hale,

Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be postponed to Friday, the sixth of January next.

Mr. Dixon, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 622) to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company, in the District of Columbia,” approved July first, eighteen hundred and sixty-four, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and having been amended on the motion of Mr. Dixon, it was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed, and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

Mr. Cowan reported from the committee that they this day presented to the President of the United States the enrolled bill (S. 358) to establish the grade of vice-admiral in the United States navy.

Mr. Dixon was, on his motion, excused from serving as a member of the Committee to Audit and Control the Contingent Expenses of the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Dixon,

Ordered, That so much of the 35th rule of the Senate as relates to the appointment of the chairmen of committees be suspended as regards the appointment of the chairman of the Committee to Audit and Control the Contingent Expenses of the Senate, and that the chairman of the said committee be appointed by the President pro tempore; and

The President pro tempore appointed Mr. Morrill chairman of the said committee.

Mr. Cowan reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the bill (H. R. 618) to amend the act entitled “An act to provide internal revenue to support the government, to pay interest on the public debt, and for other purposes,” approved June thirty, eighteen hundred and sixty-four.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill, (H. R. 618,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

0046 46

The President pro tempore signed the enrolled bill (H. R. 618) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

A message from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

Mr. President: The President of the United States this tiny approved and signed an act (S. 358) to establish the grade of vice-admiral in the United States navy.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military threes of the United States; and,

After the consideration of executive business.

The Senate adjourned.

THURSDAY, December 22, 1864. Link to Annals.

Mr. Buckalew presented the petition of William Appleman, praying that the fine imposed upon him by a military commission at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, as is alleged without due warrant of law, and paid by him, for alleged conspiracy to resist the enrolment laws of the United States, may be refunded, and the alleged wrongs done him redressed.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of officers of the artillery brigade, second army corps, praying an increase of pay; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Sumner presented the memorial of Catharine S. B. Spear, praying an appropriation for the establishment of a home for dependent and friendless children, to be designated a House of Refuge for the District of Columbia; which was referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Sumner presented the memorial of John Beeson, praying the issuance of a proclamation of amnesty and protection to all Indians who will cease hostility against the people and government of the United States, and the appointment of commissioners to attend Indian councils to ascertain the practicability of settling all the Indian tribes upon four great reserves; which was referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Sprague presented a letter of the Secretary of the Treasury, communicating a report of the president of the Light-house Board in relation to the erection of fog signals at Point Judith, Rhode Island, and Execution rocks and Hart island, New York, with estimates of the cost of the same; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 586) to drop from the rolls of the army unemployed general officers, reported it without amendment, and submitted an adverse report, (No. 106;) which was ordered to be printed.

Mr. Hale asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 368) to incorporate the association of the Sisters of Mercy, in the city of Washington, in the District of Columbia; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

Ordered, That the Committee on Foreign Relations be discharged from the further consideration of two petitions of citizens of Town, praying that the required notice may be given for the termination of the reciprocity treaty with Great Britain.

0047 47

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 583) to amend the twenty-first section of an act entitled “An act to define the pay and emoluments of certain officers of the army, and for other purposes,” approved July 17, 1862; and an amendment being proposed by Mr. Wilson,

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to to-morrow, and that the amendment be printed.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was Considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be instructed to inquire into the expediency of continuing the relief to soldiers at the Soldiers' Home; inquiring into the manner in which the funds for the said institution have been managed, the present condition of the same, and also whether the benevolent purposes of the government in establishing the same might not be better carried out by repealing the law, abandoning that mode of relief, and substituting therefor pensions to those at present by law entitled to its benefits.

Mr. Saulsbury submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to inform the Senate whether volunteers for thirty days and for one hundred days were called for by order of his department at any time preceding the two last drafts in the State of Delaware from that State; and if so, for what purpose, and under what authority of law; whether such volunteers were promised, as an inducement to volunteer, exemption from said drafts; whether said volunteers were exempted from said drafts when they volunteered; whether they were kept within the limits of said State; and whether they were promised, as a further inducement to volunteer, that they should not be sent without the limits of said State, or that they should not be employed in active service in the field.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they yesterday presented to the President of the United States the enrolled bill (H. R. 465) for the relief of Deborah Jones, and the enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 123) to correct certain clerical errors in the internal revenue act.

Mr. Lane, of Kansas, asked, and by unanimous cogent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S.88) suspending the sale by scaled bids of the lands of the Kansas and Sac and Fox Indians; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill S. 72) supplementary to an act entitled “An act to prescribe an oath of office, and for other purposes,” approved July 2, 1862; and having been amended on the motion of Mr. Sumner, it was reported to the Senate and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the bill be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

On the question, Shall the bill pass?

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 27

Nays 4

0048 48

On motion by Mr. Saulsbury,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Dixon, Doolittle, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Van Winkle, Willey, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs Buckalew, Davis, Richardson, Saulsbury.

So it was

Resolved, That the bill pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Henderson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (H. R. 121) granting additional compensation to the employés of the two houses of Congress; and,

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Finance.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 620) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending the thirtieth of June, eighteen hundred and sixty-five, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The bill (H. R. 620) last mentioned was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Finance.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military forces of the United States; and,

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

The Senate adjourned.

THURSDAY, January 5, 1865. Link to Annals.

The honorable Hannibal Hamlin, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate, resumed the chair.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a telegraphic communication from the governor of Nevada, transmitting resolutions of the legislature of that State in favor of the postponement of any action in reference to the taxation and disposal of mineral lands until the senators elect from that State shall have taken their seats in the Senate; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

The Vice-President presented the petition of P. J. Howard, praying that her husband, John Howard, a soldier in the United States service, who, it is alleged, enlisted for the term of two years only, but is now being held for three years, may be discharged; which was referred to the Committee on Pensions.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate duplicate copies of the laws and joint resolutions of the legislature of the Territory of New Mexico, passed at the session of 1863–'64; which were referred to the Committee on Territories.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 19th of December, information in relation to the report of Major General Herron, relative to the military department of Arkansas; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a letter of the Secretary of the Treasury, communicating the annual report of the Superintendent of the Coast 0049 49 Survey, showing the progress of that work during the year ending November 1 1864, with a manuscript map of the same to that date; which was read.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Printing:

Resolved, That them be printed of the report of the Superintendent of the Coast Survey for the year 1864, twelve hundred extra copies for the use of the Senate, and three thousand copies for distribution from the office of the Coast Survey.

Mr. Wade presented two petitions of citizens of Ohio, praying the passage of the resolution submitted by Mr. Chandler, December 14, 1864, directing inquiry into the expediency of enlisting an army corps to guard and defend our territory bordering on the Canadian frontier; which were referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Mr. Foster presented a petition of acting assistant surgeons, United States army, praying to be placed on the same footing with assistant surgeons of volunteers so far as relates to pay and allowances; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Sumner presented the petition of George B. Cheever and other citizens of New York, praying that slavery may be abolished and forever prohibited in the United States and its Territories; which was referred to the Select Committee on Slavery and Freedmen.

Mr. Pomeroy presented the petition of George J. Stubblefield, praying payment for tobacco delivered by him to the government officers at Atlanta, Georgia, and issued to the army under General Sherman; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of ordnance sergeants stationed in and around the city of Washington, praying an increase of the pay of ordnance sergeants; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of Major General Ord, and other officers in the service of the United States with the army of the James, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson presented fifteen petitions of officers of the army, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Morgan presented a memorial of officers of the 4th brigade, 1st division, 24th army corps, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Davis presented the petition of James Guthrie, president of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad Company, and D. Ricketts, president of the Jeffersonville Railroad Company, praying that the act of Congress entitled “An act authorizing railroad bridges across the Ohio river” may be so amended in the 4th section as to permit them to construct a railroad bridge at the head of the falls of the Ohio, 54 or 56 feet above low-water mark, without the required span of 300 feet, and that it be made a postal route for the United States mail; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Hendricks presented a memorial of a committee of clerks in the Treasury Department, praying an increase of salary; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Grimes submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to inform the Senate the number of men enlisted into the naval service of the United States that have been credited upon the military quotas of the respective States, and upon what principles, in what manner, and upon what evidence such credits were made. 4

0050 50

Mr. Foster submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be instructed to inquire into the expediency of appropriating the avails of the sales of such cotton captured at Savannah as may be confiscated to the United States among the officers and men composing the army of General Sherman on principles analogous to those adopted in the distribution of prize money in the naval service.

Mr. Conness asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 369) for the relief of the occupants of the lands of the “mission of San José,” in the State of California; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Public Lands, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Conness presented papers relating to the bill S. 369, last mentioned; which were referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Conness asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 370) to amend an act entitled “An act to provide for the better organization of Indian affairs in California; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Conness asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 371) to regulate the salaries of steamboat inspectors on the Pacific coast of the United States, and for other purposes; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Commerce, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Nesmith asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 372) allowing mileage to the justices of the Supreme Court of the United States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Ramsey asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 373) to aid in the construction of a telegraph line from St. Cloud, in Minnesota, to the British possessions; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 597) making appropriations for the payment of invalid and other pensions of the United States for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866; and having been amended on the motion of Mr. Sherman, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

The said bill as amended was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

Mr. Foster asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 374) supplemental to an act entitled “An act to enable the people of Nevada to form a constitution and State government, and for the admission of such State into the Union on an equal footing with the original States;” which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they presented to the President of the United States on the 22d of December last the following enrolled bills:

H. R. 478. An act for the relief of Charles M. Pott.

H. R. 603. An act to extend the time allowed for the withdrawal of certain goods therein named from public stores.

H. R. 618. An act to amend the act entitled “An act to provide internal 0051 51 revenue to support the government, to pay interest on the public debt, and for other purposes” approved June 30, 1864.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military forces of the United States; and

On the question to agree to the motion of Mr. Davis, to refer the joint resolution to the Committee on the Judiciary,

After debate,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 15

Nays 19

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Cowan, Davis, Doolittle, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Hicks, Nesmith, Powell, Richardson, Saulsbury, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Willey.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Brown, Clark, Conness, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Harlan, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Sumner, Wade, Wilson.

On motion by Mr. Saulsbury,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the joint resolution be postponed to to-morrow at one o'clock.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 583) to amend the twenty-first section of an act entitled “An act to define the pay and emoluments of certain officers of the army, and for other purposes,” approved July 17, 1862; and an amendment being proposed by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to tomorrow.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

FRIDAY, January 6, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 20th of December, information in relation to the disposition of the land of the Sac and Fox Indians of the Mississippi, under the treaty of October 1, 1859; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs and be printed.

Mr. Foster presented a petition of non-commissioned officers and privates of the 2d Connecticut light battery, praying that the army ration of 1863 may be restored; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Pomeroy presented a petition of officers of the army in the service of the United States with the army of the James, praying an increase of pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Clark presented a petition of officers of New Hampshire regiments now in the field, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Sumner presented a petition of citizens of the United States, praying that slavery may be abolished and forever prohibited in the United States and 0052 52 its Territories; which was referred to the Select Committee on Slavery and Freedmen.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of officers of the army in the service of the United States on the James, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson presented fourteen petitions of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the militia.

Mr. Wilson presented the petition of Charles Colburn, praying payment of a balance claimed to be due him for service in the United States navy, as yeoman of the receiving ship Ohio, from which, it is alleged, he was unlawfully discharged by the abolishment of the office by the President of the United States on the 31st of January, 1847, without authority of Congress; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Harlan presented a letter of the Secretary of the Interior, addressed to the chairman of the Committee on Public Lands, transmitting a letter of the Commissioner of the General Land Office in relation to the grade and compensation of clerks in his office; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Morgan presented the petition of R. Reynolds and Charles Young, praying that the Commissioner of Patents may be authorized to issue a patent to them for an improved hay elevator, the application having lapsed, as is alleged, through an error by which the second patent fee was misapplied; which was referred to the Committee on Patents and the Patent Office.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the petition of Blake Brothers & Co., reported adversely thereon.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Ordered, That the Committee on Finance be discharged from the further consideration of a petition of surgeons in the army, praying an increase of rank and pay, and that it be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Morgan, from the Committee on Printing, to whom was referred the resolution yesterday submitted by Mr. Wilson, in relation to the printing of the report of the Superintendent of the Coast Survey for the year 1864, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution; and

The resolution was agreed to.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Ordered, That the Committee on Finance be discharged from the further consideration of the bill (S. 366) to remit certain duties on clothing materials imported for the use of the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph.

Mr. Sherman asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 375) levying internal duties on tobacco; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Finance, and ordered to be printed,

Mr. Dixon asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 376) to amend an act entitled “An act to amend an act to incorporate the inhabitants of the city of Washington, passed May 15, 1820,” approved May 5, 1864; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Treasury, communicating, in obedience to law, a statement exhibiting the various amounts transferred from and to appropriations during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1864; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

0053 53

Mr. Conness submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be requested to send to the Senate copies of all letters received from the commander of the Pacific department relating to a recent attempt to send arms and munitions of war out of that department to Mexico.

Mr. Trumbull submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Interior be directed to inform the Senate how many agents for paying pensions there are in the employment of the government; how many in each State; what their pay is; how they are appointed, and under what law; and whether there is any limit as to number.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (S. 88) regulating proceedings in criminal cases, and for other purposes; and the amendment reported by the Committee on the Judiciary having been amended on the motion of Mr. Johnson, was agreed to as amended, and the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the bill be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed the bill of the Senate (S. 367) to repeal the provision of law requiring certain Regents of the Smithsonian Institution to be members of the National Institute; and

It has passed a joint resolution (H. R. 131) tendering the thanks of the people and of Congress to Major General William T. Sherman, and the officers and soldiers of his command, for their gallant conduct in their late brilliant movement through Georgia, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The President of the United States approved and signed, on the 15th of December, the following act and joint resolutions:

H. R. 563. An act in addition to the “Act respecting quarantine and health laws,” approved February 25, 1799, and for the better execution of the third section thereof.

H. R. 106. Joint resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to dispose of certain moneys therein mentioned.

H. R. 114. Joint resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to expend a portion of the contingent fund for enlarging the Navy Department.

On the 20th of December be approved and signed an act (H. R. 380) for the relief of George W. Murray, and on the 21st of December, an act (H. R. 465) for the relief of Deborah Jones.

He approved and signed, on the 22d of December, the following acts:

H. R. 478. An act for the relief of Charles M. Pott.

H. R. 603. An act to extend the time allowed for the withdrawal of certain goods therein named from public stores.

H. R. 618. An act to amend the act entitled “An act to provide internal revenue to support the government, to pay interest on the public debt, and for other purposes,” approved June 30, 1864.

The joint resolution (H. R. 131) last received from the House of Representatives for concurrence was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull, that the resolution be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia,

It was determined in the negative.

0054 54

No amendment being made to the resolution, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pans to a third reading.

The said resolution was read the third time by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Doolittle,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the joint resolution (H. R. 38) directing the Secretary of the Interior to pay to the Chippewa, Ottawa, and Pottawatomie Indians, residing in Michigan, the sum of one hundred and ninety-two thousand eight hundred and fifty dollars; and

On motion by Mr. Doolittle,

Ordered, That the resolution be recommitted to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Cowan reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the bill (S. 367) to repeal the provision of law requiring certain Regents of the Smithsonian Institution to be members of the National Institute.

On motion by Mr. Wilson.

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 586) to drop from the rolls of the army unemployed general officers; and

On motion by Mr. Wilson, that the bill be postponed indefinitely,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 18

Nays 8

On motion by Mr. Howe,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Brown, Buckalew, Carlile, Clark, Dixon, Doolittle, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Harding, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Hicks, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Nesmith, Powell, Ramsey, Richardson, Saulsbury, Sherman, Sumner, Van Winkle, Willey, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Conness, Davis, Farwell, Harlan, Howe, Pomeroy, Trumbull, Wade.

So it was

Resolved, That the bill be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

Ordered, That when the Senate adjourn it be to Monday next; and

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

MONDAY, January 9, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Doolittle presented a memorial of the chiefs and counsellors of the Wyandott Indians relating to certain charges preferred against Abelard Guthrie by persons representing themselves as chiefs of the said tribe, which it is alleged are untrue; which was referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Doolittle presented a memorial of the Beard of Trade of the city of Racine, Wisconsin, praying the location of a hayed depot and yard at that place; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Doolittle presented the petition of John S. Horner, praying Compensation for services rendered by his father in the revolutionary war; which was referred to the Committee on Revolutionary Claims.

Mr. Doolittle presented a petition of citizens of Wisconsin, praying a grant of lands for the construction of a ship canal at Sturgeon bay, in Door county, Wisconsin; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Morrill presented a petition of officers in the service of the United States 0055 55 with the army of the James, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Pomeroy presented the petition of E. Archinard, praying compensation for property alleged to have been destroyed by order of General Banks; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Hendricks presented the petition of Clara Moore, widow of Ely Moore, praying payment to her of the amount claimed to be due to her late husband for additional clerks and office accommodations for the same in the register's office at Lecompton, Kansas; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Wade presented a petition of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Howe presented a petition of the wardens and vestrymen of Grace church, Ripon, Wisconsin, praying that the duties on their church organ may be remitted; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Chandler presented a petition of citizens of Detroit, Michigan, and a petition of citizens of St. Clair, Michigan, praying a reduction of the duty imposed by the act of June 30, 1864, upon the gross receipts of ships and vessels engaged in the transportation of property between the different ports in the United States on the northwestern lakes and rivers; which were referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Sherman presented a petition of citizens of Cincinnati, Ohio, praying the sale of the mineral lands of the Rocky mountain country, that aid may be granted to the northern and central Pacific railroads; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Sherman presented the petition of Edgar Conkling, agent for the Refugee Relief Commission of Ohio, praying an appropriation, to be expended under the direction of the Secretary of War, in furnishing poor white refugees of the south with seed and fanning implements, and tools to such as are mechanics; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Anthony presented a petition of light-house keepers in Narragansett bay, praying an increase of salary; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Anthony presented a petition of the National Rubber Company, located at Bristol, Rhode Island, remonstrating against the further extension of Goodyear's patent for the manufacture of vulcanized Indict-rubber; which was referred to the Committee on Patents and the Patent Office.

Mr. Morgan presented the petition of Peter Cooper, praying the passage of a law authorizing any person so disposed to furnish to the government any number of able-bodied men with the right of offering such persons as substitutes for himself or friends in any draft that may hereafter be required during the war; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Chandler presented a memorial of members of the Board of Trade and other citizens of Detroit, Michigan, praying an appropriation for the construction of a harbor of refuge on the northwestern coast of the lower peninsula of Michigan, near Point Aux Bees Sties; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, who were instructed by a resolution of the Senate to inquire into the expediency of appropriating the avails of the sales of cotton captured at Savannah among the officers and men composing the army of General Sherman, reported a recommendation that the consideration of the subject be postponed indefinitely.

Mr. Pomeroy submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on the Judiciary be instructed to inquire if any further legislation is necessary to enable the President of the United States 0056 56 to call an extra session of Congress, (to meet the necessities of any public emergency,) without the delay of giving sixty days' notice to the members elect.

Mr. Hale submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Commerce be instructed to inquire into the propriety and expediency of increasing the annual compensation of the United States consul at Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Mr. Doolittle asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 89) directing inquiry into the condition of the Indian tribes and their treatment by the civil and military authorities; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Henderson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 377) granting lands to the State of Missouri to aid in the construction of certain railroads in said State; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Henderson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 378) for the relief of certain non-commissioned officers, privates, musicians, and artificers of cavalry; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The following message was received from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

To the Senate and House of Representatives:

I transmit to Congress a copy of two treaties between the United States and Belgium, for the extinguishment of the Scheldt dues, &c., concluded on the 20th of May, 1863, and 20th of July, 1863, respectively, the ratifications of which were exchanged at Brussels on the 24th of June last, and I recommend an appropriation to carry into effect the provisions thereof relative to the payment of the proportion of the United States towards the capitalization of the said dues.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

Washington, January 7, 1865.

The message was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations and be printed.

Mr. Conness asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in the following bills; which were read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Public Lands, and ordered to be printed:

S. 379. Bill for the sale of timber lands in the State of California.

S. 380. Bill to give title to the occupants of lots in cities and towns in the State of California.

S. 381. Bill in relation to swamp and overflowed lands in the State of California.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they bad examined and found duly enrolled the joint resolution (H. R. 131) tendering the thanks of the people and of Congress to Major General William T. Sherman, and the officers and soldiers of his command, for their gallant conduct in their late brilliant movement through Georgia.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson. its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 644) to extend to certain persons in the employ of the government the benefits of the Asylum for the Insane in the District of Columbia, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate; and

It has agreed to the amendment of the Senate to the bill of the House (H. 0057 57 R. 597) making appropriations for the payment of invalid and other pensions of the United States for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill (S. 367) and an enrolled joint resolution, (H. R. 131,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled bill (S. 367) reported to have been examined on the 6th instant, and the enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 131) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The bill (H. R. 644) last received from the House of Representatives for concurrence was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 82) to encourage enlistments and to promote the efficiency of the military forces of the United States.

On motion by Mr. Powell to amend the resolution by inserting at the end thereof the following proviso:

Provided, That no slave shall be emancipated by virtue of this act until the owner of the slave shall be paid a just compensation,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 7

Nays 30

On motion by Mr. Powell,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Davis, Hendricks, Johnson, Nesmith, Powell, Saulsbury.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Carlile, Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Cowan, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Hale, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hicks, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Wade, Willey, Wilson.

No further amendment being made to the resolution, it was reported to the Senate, and the amendment heretofore made in Committee of the Whole was concurred in.

On motion by Mr. Davis to amend the resolution by striking out in line 6 the words “that has been or may,” and inserting who may hereafter,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 6

Nays 32

On motion by Mr. Davis,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Davis, Hendricks, Powell, Saulsbury, Trumbull.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Carlile, Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Cowan, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Hale, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hicks, Howe, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Van Winkle, Wade, Willey, Wilson.

No further amendment being proposed to the resolution,

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time.

On the question, Shall the resolution pass?

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 27

Nays 10

On motion by Mr. Powell,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Chandler, Clark, Conness, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, 0058 58 Foster, Grimes, Hale, Harlan, Harris, Hicks, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Van Winkle, Wade, Willey, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Carlile, Cowan, Davis, Hendricks, Johnson, Nesmith, Powell, Saulsbury, Trumbull.

So it was

Resolved, That the resolution pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

TUESDAY, January 10, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Collamer presented the petition of Edmund S. Zevely, praying to be allowed extra compensation on his contract to furnish the Post Office Department with marking and rating stamps, or that be may be released from the fulfilment of the said contract; which was referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Pomeroy presented a petition of citizens of California, praying the passage of the bill (H. R. 560) to amend an act entitled “An act to grant the right of pre-emption to certain purchasers on the Soscol ranch, in the State of California.”

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Buckalew presented the petition of William P. Robinson, praying compensation for expenses incurred by him by reason of the fatal wounding of his son, James S. Robinson, when in pursuit of deserters; which was referred to the Committee on Pensions.

Mr. Chandler presented a petition of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Foot,

Ordered, That the heirs of the late Asbury Dickins have leave to withdraw his petition and papers.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Adjutant General be directed to report, for the information of the Senate, a complete list of all the major and brigadier generals in the volunteer forces of the United States, and where and how said general officers were employed on the 1st day of January, 1865.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Adjutant General be directed to report, for the information of the Senate, a complete list of all the officers of the regular army of the United States, and where and how said officers were employed on the 1st day of January, 1865.

Mr. Saulsbury submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to answer a resolution of the Senate, of December 22, 1864, in the following words:

“ Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to inform the Senate whether volunteers for thirty days and for one hundred days were called for by order of his department at any time preceding the two last drafts in the State of Delaware from that State; and if so, for what purpose and under what authority of law; whether such volunteers were promised, as an inducement to volunteer, exemption from said drafts; whether said volunteers were 0059 59 exempted from said drafts when they volunteered; whether they were kept within the limits of said State; and whether they were promised, as a further inducement to volunteer, that they should not be sent without the limits of said State, or that they should not be employed in active service in the field.”

Mr. Grimes asked and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 382) to provide for a better organization of the pay department of the navy; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 90) to authorize and direct an inventory of articles in the arsenals of the United States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Buckalew asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 383) to repeal an existing provision of law for recruiting in the rebel States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Dixon, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom was referred the petition of the Franklin Insurance Company of the District of Columbia, reported a bill (S. 384) to amend the act entitled “An act to amend and extend the charter of the Franklin Insurance Company,” approved March 2, 1838; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Foot,

Ordered, That the Committee on Public Lands be discharged from the further consideration of the following bills:

S. 373. Bill to aid in the construction of a telegraphic line from St. Cloud, in Minnesota, to the British possessions.

H. R. 572. An act for the relief of Sally C. Northup.

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

Ordered, That the Committee on the District of Columbia be discharged from the further consideration of the memorial of Edmund F. Brown, and that it be referred to the Committee on Claims.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Ordered, That the Committee on Finance be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of the wardens and vestrymen of Grace church, Ripon, Wisconsin.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 644) to extend to certain persons in the employ of the government the benefits of the Asylum for the Insane in the District of Columbia, reported it with an amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and the reported amendment having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

0060 60

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

Ordered, That the Committee on Public Lands be discharged from the further consideration of the bill (H. R. 404) to authorize a departure from the established mode of surveying in certain cases.

Mr. Harlan, from the Committee on Public Lands, to whom were referred the following bills, reported them without amendment and with a recommendation that they be postponed indefinitely:

S. 83. Bill to amend an act confirming certain land claims in the State of Michigan.

S. 287. Bill granting lands to aid in the construction of a railroad and telegraph line from Lake Superior to Paget's sound.

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bills (S. 83 and S. 287) last mentioned; and no amendment being made, they were reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

Ordered, That they be postponed indefinitely.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Board of Visitors to the United States Naval Academy for the year 1864.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs and be printed.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 385) authorizing the President to appoint a Second Assistant Secretary of War; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they yesterday presented to the President of the United States the enrolled bill (S. 367) to repeal the provision of law requiring certain regents of the Smithsonian Institution to be members of the National Institute.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the bill (H. R. 597) making appropriations for the payment of invalid and other pensions of the United States for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (S. 281) for the relief of Alexander J. Atocha; and the amendment made in Committee of the Whole having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the bill be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 307) to regulate commerce among the several States; and,

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to, and made the special order of the day for, Monday next, at one o'clock, two-thirds of the senators present, agreeing thereto.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill, (H. R. 597,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Vice President signed the enrolled bill (H. R. 597) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

0061 61

A message from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

Mr. President: The President of the United States approved and signed, this day, an act (S. 367) to repeal the provision of law requiring certain regents of the Smithsonian Institution to be members of the National Institute.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 598) making appropriations for the consular and diplomatic expenses of the government for the year ending 30th June, 1866, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and,

On motion by Mr. Hale,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to Friday next.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 620) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending the 30th of June, 1865, reported it with amendments.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and the reported amendments having been agreed to,

On motion by Mr. Harlan, from the Committee on Agriculture, to amend the bill, by inserting after line 101, on page 5, the following:

For the expenses incurred in sending Joseph A. Wright as commissioner of the United States to the International Exhibition at Hamburg, Germany, in the year eighteen hundred and sixty-three, six thousand dollars,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 8

Nays 20

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Collamer, Conness, Foot, Harlan, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Ramsey, Riddle.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Buckalew, Carlile, Clark, Davis, Dixon, Farwell, Foster, Hale, Henderson, Morgan, Pomeroy, Richardson, Saulsbury, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Wilson.

The bill having been further amended, was reported to the Senate, and the amendments were concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendments be engrossed, and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Senate request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendments.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

WEDNESDAY, January 11, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Trumbull presented a petition of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Clark presented a petition of citizens of Virginia, praying to be taken more directly under the protection and jurisdiction of the government, by the formation of a territorial government, or otherwise; which was referred to the Committee on Territories.

Mr. Harris presented a petition of clerks in the War Department, a petition 0062 62 of clerks in the Interior Department, a petition of clerks in the Navy Department, and two petitions of clerks in the Treasury Department, praying an increase of salary; which were referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Harris presented a petition of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of pay, and that the commutation price of rations may be fixed at sixty cents, and that the pay of officers' servants may be the same as that of private soldiers in the army; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Harris presented a petition of real estate agents, of Albany, New York, praying that there may be refunded to them a proportional part of the tax paid by them as commercial brokers under the act of 1862; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Doolittle presented a memorial of the Chamber of Commerce of the city of Milwaukie, praying the construction of a ship canal around the Falls of Niagara; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of medical storekeepers in the service of the United States, praying to be allowed the pay and emoluments of surgeons in the army; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson presented two petitions of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Chandler presented a petition of citizens of Muskegon county, Michigan, praying an appropriation for the improvement of the channel of Muskegon harbor; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Morrill presented the petition of Dennis Sullivan, of Alexandria, Louisiana, praying compensation for property alleged to have been destroyed by the forces of the United States; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Morrill presented a petition of the “local board of steamboat inspectors,” praying an increase of salary; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Buckalew submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Finance be authorized to report a bill or joint resolution providing compensation to members of the Senate at special called sessions of the Senate, commencing with the 38th Congress; such compensation to be confined to sessions when the House of Representatives is not convened, and to members who are required to journey from their homes to the capital, in order to attend such sessions.

Mr. Ramsey asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 386) to incorporate the National Protection Insurance Company of the District of Columbia; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Ramsey asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 387) amendatory of an act to amend an act entitled “An act to promote the progress of the useful arts,” approved March 3, 1863; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Patents and the Patent Office.

Mr. Chandler asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 388) further to provide for the verification of invoices; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Collamer asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 389) relating to clerkships in the Post Office Department; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

0063 63

Mr. Trumbull asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 91) appointing General Richard Delafield to be a regent of the Smithsonian Institution; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Library.

Mr. Foster, from the Committee on Pensions, to whom was referred the bill (S. 365) in relation to pensions, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was referred to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Doolittle, from the Committee on Military Affairs, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. 89) directing inquiry into the condition of the Indian tribes, and their treatment by the civil and military authorities, reported it without amendment.

Mr. Collamer asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 390) relating to the postal laws; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they yesterday presented to the President of the United States the enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 131) tendering the thanks of the people and of Congress to Major General William T. Sherman, and the officers and soldiers of his command, for their gallant conduct in their late brilliant movement through Georgia.

On motion by Mr. Van Winkle,

The bill (S. 337) authorizing the payment to the Adams Express Company of the amount of certain treasury notes destroyed or irrevocably lost while in their custody was read the second time and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the bill (S. 385) authorizing the President to appoint a second Assistant Secretary of War, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Grimes, from the Committee on Naval Affairs, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 607) to provide for an advance of rank to officers of the navy and marine corps for distinguished merit, reported it with an amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and the reported amendment having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed aid the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

On motion by Mr. Ten Eyck,

Ordered, That the Committee on the Judiciary be discharged from the 0064 64 further consideration of the petition of Elias H. Chambers, and that it be referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Trumbull, from the Committee on the Judiciary, reported the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That there be printed for the use of the Committee on the Judiciary, certain evidence before them relating to the right to seats of Messrs. Cutler and Smith, as senators from the State of Louisiana.

Mr. Trumbull, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 595) to amend an act entitled “An act for the punishment of crimes in the District of Columbia,” approved March 2, 1831, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they this day presented to the President of the United States the enrolled bill (H. R. 597) making appropriations for the payment of invalid and other pensions of the United States for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866.

Mr. Doolittle, from the Committee on Indian Affairs, to whom the subject was referred, reported a joint resolution (S. 92) to postpone and prevent the sale, for less than their appraised value, of certain Indian lands in Minnesota; which was read and passed to a second reading.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 657) to amend the third section of an act entitled “An act making appropriations for sundry civil expenses of the government for the year ending the 30th of June, 1865, and for other purposes,” so far as the same relates to witnesses in the courts of the United States; in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The Senate resumed the consideration of the joint resolution (H. R. 56) authorizing the President of the United States to give to the government of Great Britain the notice required for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of the 5th of June, anno Domini eighteen hundred and fifty-four; and the resolution having been read the third time,

On the question, Shall it pass?

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Ramsey,

The Senate adjourned.

THURSDAY, January 12, 1865. Link to Annals.

The following message was received from the President of the United States. by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

To the Senate of the United States:

In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 15th ultimo, requesting information concerning an arrangement limiting the naval armament on the lakes, I transmit a report of this date from the Secretary of State, to whom the resolution was referred.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

Washington, January 9, 1865.

The message was read.

0065 65

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations and be printed.

The bill (H. R. 657) to amend the third section of an act entitled “An act making appropriations for sundry civil expanses of the government for the year ending the 30th day of June, 1865, and for other purposes,” so far as the same relates to witnesses in the courts of the United States, was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

On motion by Mr. Collamer,

Ordered, That the bill (S. 390) relating to the postal laws, with accompanying papers, be printed.

Mr. Wilson presented the petition of Jane G. Swisshelm, praying that provision may be made for the employment of women as corresponding, recording, and copying clerks in the departments; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of citizens of Philadelphia, praying a modification of the existing laws in relation to the raising of troops by means of local bounties; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Farwell presented a memorial of the Board of Trade of Portland, Maine, praying an appropriation for placing steam-whistles upon Cape Elizabeth, Matinicus Rock, and Quoddy Head, for the better security and protection of the navigation upon the coast of that State; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Trumbull, from the Committee on the Judiciary, who were instructed by a resolution of the Senate to inquire if any further legislation is necessary to enable the President of the United States to call an extra session of Congress without giving sixty days' notice, reported a recommendation that the further consideration of the subject be postponed indefinitely; and

The report was agreed to.

Mr. Chandler, from the Committee on Commerce, to whom was referred the bill (S. 388) further to provide for the verification of invoices, reported it without amendment.

Mr. Pomeroy asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 391) authorizing an adjustment of the claims for lands heretofore confirmed to any State; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Public Lands, and ordered to be printed.

On motion by Mr. Powell,

Ordered, That the Committee on the Judiciary be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of James Guthrie, president of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad Company, and D. Ricketts, president of the Jeffersonville Railroad Company; and that it be referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Powell asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 392) supplementary to an act approved July 14, 1862, entitled “An act to establish certain post roads;” which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Dixon asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 393) to authorize the corporation of Georgetown to levy certain taxes; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Cowan asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 394) for the relief of the parties in a cause pending in the supreme court of the District of Columbia, wherein Emily F. Wiley is plaintiff, and Marshall F. Brown and others are defendants; which was read the first and 5 0066 66 second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Trumbull submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of State, of the Treasury, of War, of the Navy, of the Interior, the Postmaster General, and the Attorney General, be each directed to inform the Senate what amount was paid or allowed in his department for attorneys, or counsel fees, of every kind and description, exclusive of the regular salaries paid to the Attorney General, and the respective district attorneys, during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1864, and, so far as practicable, from that period to the first of January, 1865; giving a list of the names of the persons employed, the amount paid each, and out of what fund, and the services for which those fees were paid.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on the Conduct of the War be directed to inquire into the causes of the failure of the late expedition against Wilmington, North Carolina, and to report the facts to the Senate.

Mr. Buckalew submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, by the Senate, (the House of Representatives concurring,)

1. That the Joint Committee on Ventilation and Improvement of the Halls of Congress be authorized to examine witnesses and employ a reporter.

2. That the members of the committees of the two houses upon Public Buildings and Grounds be added to the said Joint Committee upon Ventilation, &c., for the purpose of deciding upon any plan or proposition of improvement which may be before said committee for consideration.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in this resolution.

On motion by Mr. Doolittle,

The joint resolution (S. 92) to postpone and prevent the sale for less titan their appraised value of certain Indian lands in Minnesota was read the second time and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and the resolution having been amended on the motion of Mr. Harlan, it was reported to the Senate and the amendments were concurred in.

Ordered, That the resolution be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the bill (H. R. 595) to amend an act entitled “An act for the punishment of crimes in the District of Columbia,” approved March 2, 1831.

Mr. Harlan, from the Committee on Indian Affairs, to whom the subject was referred, reported a joint resolution (S. 93) in relation to the massacre of the Cheyenne Indians; which was read and passed to a second reading.

On motion by Mr. Dixon,

Ordered, That Henry Kellogg have leave to withdraw his petition and papers.

On motion by Mr. Foot,

Ordered, That Nott & Co. have leave to withdraw their petition and papers.

Mr. Hendricks presented the petition of Henry Nolan, praying that he may be allowed to purchase or lease from the government a strip of land, now occupied by him, lying between the enclosure of the light-house and the shore of Lake Michigan, in Michigan City, indiana; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

The Senate resumed the consideration of the joint resolution (H. R. 56) authorizing 0067 67 the President of the United States to give to the government of Great Britain the notice required for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of the 5th of June, anne Domini eighteen hundred and fifty-four; and,

Pending debate,

Mr. Grimes announced the presence in the Senate chamber of Vice-Admiral Farragut, of the United States navy, distinguished for his eminent services, and the first officer in the naval service upon whom that title has been conferred; and moved that the Senate take a recess of ten minutes to enable the members of the Senate to exchange courtesies with him; and

The Senate, by unanimous consent, took a recess of ten minutes.

After which,

The consideration of the joint resolution (H. R. 56) was resumed; and,

After further debate,

On motion by Mr. Hale that it be referred to the Committee on Finance,

It was determined in the negative.

On the question, Shall the resolution pass?

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 33

Nays 8

On motion by Mr. Hale,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Cowan, Davis, Doolittle, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Harding, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Powell, Richardson, Riddle, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Wade, Willey, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Dixon, Hale, Hendricks, Hicks, Howe, Ramsey, Van Winkle.

So it was

Resolved, That the joint resolution pass.

On motion, the title was amended to read: Joint resolution providing for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of the 5th of June, 1854, between the United States and Great Britain.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment to the said resolution.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill, (H. R. 595,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled bill (H. R. 595) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

FRIDAY, January 13, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Willey presented the petition of George W. Allen, praying the adoption of measures for the exchange of all the officers of Colonel Straight's command, captured near Rome, Georgia; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Clark presented two petitions of citizens of Virginia, praying the formation of a territorial government in that State; which were referred to the Committee on Territories.

Mr. Clark presented a petition of the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, praying compensation for three regimental cook wagons furnished by order of 0068 68 Major General Frémont, commanding the western department; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Howe presented a petition of officers of the State Historical Society of Wisconsin, praying that foreign printing paper may be exempted from duty; that the duty on imported books may be reduced, and that all books and literary property imported express'y for public libraries may be admitted free of duty; which was referred to the committee on Finance.

Mr. Lane, of Indiana, presented a memorial of newspaper publishers of Indiana, praying the repeal of the duty on imported printing paper; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Sumner presented the petition of John P. Andrews, praying to be indemnified for the loss of certain United States bonds; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Foster presented a petition of the local board of steamboat inspectors, praying an increase of salary; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Morrill, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the memorial of C. C. Hutchinson, reported a recommendation that the further consideration thereof be postponed indefinitely; and

The report was agreed to.

Mr. Morrill, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom was referred the bill (S.376) to amend an act entitled “An act to amend an act to incorporate the inhabitants of the city of Washington, passed May 15, 1820,” approved May 5, 1864, reported it with an amendment.

Mr. Pomeroy, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 520) for the relief of Samuel Beaston, master of the schooner George Harris, reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Pomeroy,

Resolved, That the bill be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof. Mr. Pomeroy, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was recommitted the bill (H. R. 43) for the relief of Milo Sutliff and Levi H. Case, reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Pomeroy,

Resolved, That the bill be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Pomeroy, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 458) for the relief of George Mowrey, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole: and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Grimes,

Ordered, That Joseph P. Woodbury have leave to withdraw his petition and papers.

Mr Davis, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 94) for the relief of Peter Wheeler, reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

0069 69

On motion by Mr. Davis,

Resolved, That the said resolution be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Davis, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 94) for the relief of Isaac R. Diller, reported it with an amendment.

Mr. Clark, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 516) for the relief of Frances Munson, reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Clark,

Resolved, That the bill be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Riddle submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to inform the Senate what number of soldiers and sailors the several loyal States, embracing the States of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, California, Oregon, and Kansas, and the District of Columbia, have furnished the army and navy, under the proclamation and order of the President for five hundred thousand men, dated July 18, 1864.

The Senate proceeded, by unanimous consent, to consider the said resolution; and,

On motion by Mr. Brown,

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Collamer, from the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads, to whom was referred the bill (S. 389) relating to clerkships in the Post Office Department, reported it without amendment.

On motion by Mr. Collamer,

Ordered, That the letter of the Postmaster General to the chairman of the Committee on Post Offices and Pest Roads, relating to clerkships in the Post Office Department, be printed.

Mr. Collamer, from the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads, to whom was referred the petition of Edmund S. Zevely, reported a bill (S. 395) for the relief of Edmund S. Zevely; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Conness presented a memorial of merchants and importers of San Francisco, California, praying that the duties paid on goods destroyed by fire while in the hands of original importers may be refunded; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Sherman presented a petition of citizens of Youngstown, Ohio, praying that the railroad from Youngstown, Ohio, to Sharon, Pennsylvania, may be declared a mail route; which was referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Powell presented the memorial of Joseph Wilson, praying compensation for horses and mules captured by the rebels in consequence, as is alleged, of the refusal of the pickets to allow him to pass within out lines on the outposts of Washington, in July, 1864; which was referred to the Committee on Claims

0070 70

Mr. Grimes presented a petition of laborers in the Washington navy yard, praying that inquiry may be made into the conduct of officials in the said yard, in the employment of men who are represented as being hostile to the government; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Wade submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the President be requested to communicate to the Senate, if not incompatible with the public service, any correspondence or other information in possession of the government in regard to the present condition of affairs in Mexico, and especially the papers in relation to the case of the French war transport steamer “Rhine,” which it is alleged took articles contraband of war from San Francisco to the French forces at Acapulco, in the Mexican republic.

Mr. Collamer, from the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 623) to amend an act entitled “An act to provide for carrying the mails from the United States to foreign ports, and for other purposes,” approved March 25, 1864, reported it without amendment.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 261) to provide for the voluntary enlistment of any persons residents of certain States into the regiments of other States; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Resolved, That the bill be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the following bills and joint resolution; and no amendment being made, they were reported to the Senate:

S. 103. Bill to define the rank, pay, and emoluments of chaplains in the United States army and volunteer force, and for other purposes.

S. 231. Bill concerning the subsistence and pay of the army.

S. 20. Joint resolution extending the benefits of the bounty granted by the act of July 22, 1861, to certain soldiers who entered the service of the United States prior to May 3, 1861.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Resolved, That the said bills and joint resolution be postponed indefinitely.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 598) making appropriations for the consular and diplomatic expenses of the government for the year ending 30th of June, 1866; and the bill having been further amended, was reported to the Senate, and the amendments were concurred in.

On motion by Mr. Hale to further amend the bill by inserting at the end thereof the following:

Sec. —. And be it further enacted, That the salary of the consul at Halifax, Nova Scotia, from and after the first day of January, 1865, shall be three thousand dollars per annum, and a further sum of fifteen hundred dollars be, and the same is hereby, appropriated to carry the same into effect,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 12

Nays 27

On motion by Mr. Grimes,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Chandler, Doolittle, Farwell, Hale, Hicks, Howe, Morgan, Ramsey, Riddle, Sumner, Van Winkle.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Brown, Buckalew, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Davis, Dixon, Foot, 0071 71 Foster, Grimes, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Powell, Richardson, Saulsbury, Sherman, Sprague, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Wade, Willey, Wilson.

On motion by Mr. Foot to amend the bill by striking out, in line 80, the words “Saint Lambert and Longuieul,”

It was determined in the affirmative.

On motion by Mr. Wade to amend the bill by inserting, in line 10, before the word “Mexico,” the words republic of.

It was determined in the affirmative.

No further amendment being made to the bill,

Ordered, That the amendments be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

The said bill as amended was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendments.

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

The joint resolution (S. 93) in relation to the massacre of the Cheyenne Indians was read the second time, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Morgan asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 94) authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to advance to Paul S. Forbes two hundred and fifty thousand dollars additional out of the sum to be paid him under his contract for building a steam screw sloop-of-war; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

On motion by Mr. Hendricks,

Ordered, That when the Senate adjourn, it be to Monday next; and

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

MONDAY, January 16, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating, in obedience to law, a statement prepared by the Second Comptroller of the Treasury, showing the balance of appropriations standing upon the books of his office to the credit of his department on the 1st of July, 1863; the amounts appropriated for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1854, including repayments and transfers of appropriations, and the aggregate amounts applicable to the service of the said fiscal year; also the amounts drawn from said appropriations or carried to the surplus fund from July 1, 1863, to June 30, 1864, and the balance remaining in the treasury at the last-named date; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Morgan presented the petition of Janes, Fowler, Kirtland & Co., contractors to furnish materials and labor for the construction of the dome of the Capitol, praying additional compensation on their contract; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Lane, of Indiana, presented a petition of citizens of Indiana, praying that all the rebel prisoners now in our hands may be placed under the control of those officers and men who have been prisoners rebel hands, and that the same rations and treatment may be extended to rebel prisoners that our men have experienced 0072 72 at their hands; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Grimes presented the petition of Charles Murray, a paymaster in the navy, praying additional compensation while serving at the naval station at Mare island, California; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Hendricks presented papers relating to the claim of Philip Lansdale, surgeon United States navy; which were referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Sherman presented the petition of William Hughes, praying payment of money expended by him in the improvement of the grounds surrounding Armory Square Hospital; which was referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds.

Mr. Sherman presented a petition of the local board of steamboat inspectors, Cincinnati, Ohio, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Sherman presented a memorial of citizens of Sandusky, Ohio, praying the establishment of a naval depot on Johnson's island, in Sandusky bay; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of merchants of Boston, praying the postponement of the passage of the bankrupt bill, now under consideration, until such time shall have elapsed after the restoration of the revolted States as will give northern creditors opportunity to negotiate with their debtors in those States for the adjustment of their claims; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of officers in the volunteer service of the United States, praying an increase of the pay of officers of the army; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Chandler presented a petition of citizens of Mecosta county, Michigan, praying an appropriation for the improvement of the channel of Muskegon harbor, Lake Michigan; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Chandler presented the petition of citizens of Port Huron, Michigan, praying an amendment of the law providing for internal revenue by a repeal of the provision of the 103d section thereof, which imposes a duty of two and one-half per cent. on the gross receipts of ships and vessels engaged in the transportation of property between different ports in the United States on the northwestern lakes and rivers; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Conness presented the petition of Samuel Norris, praying payment for supplies furnished to the Indians in the year 1851, under contracts with O. M. Wozencraft, Indian agent; which was referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Davis presented the petition of Mary Scott, praying to be indemnified for damages alleged to have been sustained in consequence of the occupation of her land by the United States forces at Camp Nelson, Kentucky, and for the loss of stock and crops in the years 1861 and 1862; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

On motion by Mr. Powell,

Ordered, That the petition of Preston Starritt, on the files of the Senate, be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

On motion by Mr. Nesmith,

Ordered, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of the widow of the Rev. Samuel Hibben.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the bill (H. R. 458) for the relief of George Mowrey.

Mr. Clark, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 203) for the relief of Jacob Weber, reported it without amendment.

0073 73

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the resolution, submitted by Mr. Riddle on the 13th instant, calling on the Secretary of War for information in regard to the number of soldiers and sailors furnished by the loyal States under the call of the President of July 18, 1864, for five hundred thousand men, reported it with an amendment.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. 90) to authorize and direct an inventory of articles in the arsenals of the United States, reported it with an amendment.

Mr. Dixon asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 396) to provide for the improvement of the Potomac river opposite the city of Washington; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Morrill asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 397) in relation to the rights of married women in the District of Columbia; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Wade asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 95) to regulate the treatment of confederate prisoners in custody of the authorities of the United States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they presented to the President of the United States, on the 13th instant, the enrolled bill (H. R. 595) to amend an act entitled “An act for the punishment of crimes in the District of Columbia,” approved March 2, 1831.

Mr. Sumner submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to communicate to the Senate, if not incompatible with the public interest, any information in his possession showing the practical operation of the tenth article of the treaty of Washington of the 9th August, 1842, and the expediency of giving to her Britannic Majesty's government the notice required for the termination of such article.

Mr. Trumbull submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Printing be instructed to inquire into the causes of delay in the publication of “the official reports of the operations of the armies of the United States,” as directed by a resolution of Congress, approved May 19, 1864; “a full army register, including a roster of officers of volunteers,” as directed by a resolution of Congress, approved June 30, 1864, supplementary to the Senate resolution of December 13, 1816, and the House resolutions of February 1, 1830, and August 30, 1842; and the edition of “the President's message, with an abridgment of the accompanying documents,” as directed by an act of Congress approved May 19, 1864.

Mr. Cowan submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Interior be requested to inform the Senate whether the provisions of the act of June 2, 1862, entitled “An act to prevent and punish fraud on the part of officers intrusted with making of contracts for the government,” have been complied with by officers under him, and particularly whether the said act has been complied with and executed as to contracts for marble and marble work and iron and iron work upon the Capitol extension; and if there has been failure or neglect in the execution of the said act, the reasons therefor, and why the penalties of said act have not been enforced against officers in default.

0074 74

Mr. Powell submitted the following resolution; which was ordered to be printed:

Whereas a military commission ordered by Brevet Major General Burbridge to investigate the conduct of Brigadier (General E. A. Paine, of the United States volunteers, whilst in command at Paducah, Kentucky, have made a report, in which they implicate Brigadier General Paine and others in acts of cruelty, barbarity, robbery, plunder, and pillage: Therefore,

Resolved, That the President be requested to cause Brigadier General E. A. Paine, of the United States volunteers, to be arraigned and tried before a proper tribunal for his conduct whilst in command of Paducah, Kentucky, in order that said Brigadier General Paine may be punished if found guilty of the charges made against him, and if not guilty, his innocence be made manifest, and the United States flag rescued from dishonor.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to report to the Senate the present condition of the Soldiers' Home, together with a detailed statement of all funds which have been received for the benefit of that institution, and the different sources from which they have been received from its organization to the present time; also, of the disbursement of said funds, the amount of property owned by said Home, the investments, and the balances on hand, and where deposited; the number of invalid soldiers who have been supported at the Home for each year since its organization, together with the annual expenses of supporting each inmate of the institution.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 307) to regulate commerce among the several States; and

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to, and made the special order of the day for, Thursday next, at one o'clock—two-thirds of the senators present agreeing thereto.

Mr. Collamer asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 398) to repeal the eighth section of an act entitled “An act in addition to the several acts concerning commercial intercourse between loyal and insurrectionary States, and to provide for the collection of captured and abandoned property, and the prevention of frauds in States declared in insurrection,” approved July 2, 1864; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Commerce.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill, (H. R. 458,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled bill (H. R. 458) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 6th instant, information in relation to the number and pay of pension agents in the employment of the government, and the authority under which they are appointed; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Pensions and be printed.

On motion by Mr. Sherman.

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 163) for the relief of Charles Anderson, assignee of John James, of Texas; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

0075 75

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

TUESDAY, January 17, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Willey presented two memorials of citizens of Virginia, remonstrating against the establishment of a territorial government in that State; which were referred to the Committee on Territories.

Mr. Foot presented the petition of Henry Stanley, praying an extension of his patent for an improvement in coal stoves; which was referred to the Committee on Patents and the Patent Office.

Mr. Howe presented a petition of citizens of Wisconsin, praying such an amendment of the enrolment law as will provide that all able-bodied men under the age of fifty years shall be placed upon the rolls and be subject to a draft for one year; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Howe presented a petition of chiefs and warriors of the Stockbridge tribe of Indians, praying that a new treaty with them may be authorized; which was referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Sumner presented a memorial of the Boston Board of Trade, praying the postponement of the passage of the bankrupt bill, now under consideration, until such time shall have elapsed after the restoration of the revolted States as will give northern creditors opportunity to negotiate with their debtors in those States for the adjustment of their claims; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Sumner presented a petition of citizens of New York, praying that slavery may be abolished and forever prohibited in the United States and its Territories; which was referred to the select Committee on Slavery and Freedmen.

Mr. Cowan presented a memorial of the Board of Trade of Philadelphia, praying that provision may be made for the levying of such duties upon all vessels engaged in foreign commerce from our ports as shall justly distribute the expense of maintaining our light-houses, buoys, and beacons among the parties enjoying their benefits, and relieve the public treasury therefrom; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Wilson presented a memorial of officers of the 40th regiment Massachusetts volunteers, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Howard presented the memorial of William A. Hammond, late Surgeon General of the United States army, praying that inquiry may be made into all the circumstance connected with his recent trial and dismissal, and that the Senate will suspend action in the matter of confirming his successor in office until such inquiry shall have been made; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Morgan presented the petition of Nott & Co., praying to be indemnified for the loss of four boxes of specie shipped by them on board the schooner Nova, at Hong Kong, and seized and plundered by pirates on the 18th of October, 1857; such indemnification to be paid cut of the unappropriated balance of the fund obtained from the Chinese government under the treaty negotiated at Shanghai, November 8, 1858; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Harris presented a petition of the local board of steamboat inspectors of Oswego, New York, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Lane, of Indiana, presented a petition of the Western Associated Press, 0076 76 praying a repeal of the duty on foreign printing paper; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Farwell presented a letter of Captain John A. Webster, jr., commanding the United States steam cutter “Mahoning,” to the collector of customs at Portland, Maine, relating to the substitution of steam-whistles for fog-bells, and recommending the same; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Farwell presented a petition of officers of the 20th regiment Maine volunteers, praying an increase of pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Davis presented the petition of William Hutchinson, praying compensation for services alleged to have been rendered the government in the war of 1812 as a spy; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Wade presented a petition of captains, commanders, and lieutenant commanders on the active list of the United States navy, praying a restoration of the pay allowed to their respective grades prior to the breaking out of the present rebellion; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Dixon, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom was referred the bill (S. 393) to authorize the corporation of Georgetown to levy certain taxes, reported it without amendment.

On motion by Mr. Willey,

Ordered, That the Committee on the District of Columbia be, discharged from the further consideration of the petition of Catharine S. B. Spear.

Mr. Morrill submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Interior be requested to communicate to the Senate the expense, of all kinds, for maintaining the jail in the District of Columbia for the years 1863 and 1864, with the number of prisoners supported.

Mr. Anthony submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Printing:

Resolved, That three thousand copies of the Navy Register for 1864 be printed for the use of the Senate.

Mr. Davis submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the special rule of the Senate, 34, be amended by adding thereto these words: “A committee for the investigation of the transactions of the government in all its departments and offices, to consist of five members.”

Mr. Johnson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be requested to send to the Senate the originals or copies of the rolls of such of the regiments as have been raised in the State of Maryland in the present war, which were composed, in whole or in part, of those who were, at the time of their enlistment or draft, slaves.

Mr. Morrill, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 514) to amend “An act to extend the charter of the Alexandria and Washington railroad,” passed March 3, 1863, reported it with amendments.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Ordered, That the Committee on Finance be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of real estate agents of the city of Albany, New York, and of the petition of Jane G. Swisshelm.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 121) granting additional compensation to the employés of the two houses of Congress, reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

0077 77

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Resolved, That the resolution be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Sumner, from the Committee on Foreign Relations, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 91) in relation to the treaty of 1817, reported it with an amendment.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

Ordered, That the Committee on Foreign Relations be discharged from the further consideration of the message of the President of the United States, relative to an arrangement between the United States and Great Britain in regard to the naval force to be maintained upon the American likes.

Mr. Collamer, from the Committee on the Library, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. 91) appointing General Richard Delafield to be a Regent of the Smithsonian Institution, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Trumbull asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 401) to amend the judicial system of the United States; which warn read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Howard asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 399) amendatory of the act of August 1, 1854, in relation to George Morell; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Morgan asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 400) to regulate the management of captured and abandoned property in the rebel States, and for other purposes; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Commerce.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of State, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 12th instant, information in relation to the expenditures of that department for counsel fees and legal expenses from July 1, 1863, to January 1, 1865; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the following bill and joint resolution:

H. R. 163. An act for the relief of Charles Anderson, assignee of John James, of Texas.

H. R. 56. Joint resolution providing for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of 5th of June, 1854, between the United States and Great Britain.

On motion by Mr. Clark,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 203) for the relief of Jacob Weber; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Collamer,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 623) to amend an act entitled “An act to provide for carrying the mails 0078 78 from the United States to foreign ports, and for other purposes,” approved March 25, 1864; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Collamer,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (S. 389) relating to clerkships in the Post Office Department; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has agreed to the amendment of the Senate to the resolution of the House (H. R. 56) providing for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of 5th of June, 1854, between the United States and Great Britain; and

It has agreed to some, and disagreed to other, amendments of the Senate to the bill of the House (H. R. 620) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending 30th of June, 1865; it asks a conference on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon, and has appointed Mr. Stevens, Mr. Pendleton, and Mr. Webster managers at the same on its part.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill (H. R. 163) and an enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 56,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The President of the United States approved and signed, on the 10th instant, a joint resolution (H. R. 131) tendering the thanks of the people and of Congress to Major General William T. Sherman, and the officers and soldiers of his command, for their gallant conduct in their late brilliant movement through Georgia; on the 11th instant he approved and signed an act (H. R. 597)making appropriations for the payment of invalid and other pensions of the United States for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866; and on the 13th instant he approved and signed an act (H. R. 595) to amend an act entitled “An act for the punishment of crimes in the District of Columbia,” approved March 2, 1831.

The Senate proceeded to consider its amendments to the bill of the House (H. R. 620) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending 30th June, 1865, disagreed to by the House of Representatives; and

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Resolved, That the Senate insist upon its amendments to the said bill disagreed to by the House of Representatives, and agree to the conference asked by the House on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon.

Ordered, That the conferees on the part of the Senate be appointed by the Vice-President; and

The Vice-President appointed Mr. Sherman, Mr. Conness, and Mr. Buckalew.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled bill (H. R. 163) and the enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 56) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

On motion by Mr. Wilson

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the joint resolution (S. 90) to authorize and direct an inventory of articles in the arsenals of the United States; and the amendment reported by the committee having 0079 79 been agreed to, and the resolution further amended on the motion of Mr. Hale, it was reported to the Senate, and the amendments were concurred in.

Ordered, That the resolution be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title be amended to read: Joint resolution to authorize and direct an inventory of articles in the quartermaster's depots of the United States and in possession of the naval storekeepers of the United States.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed the consideration of the resolution, submitted by Mr. Riddle on the 13th instant, in relation to the number of soldiers and sailors furnished by loyal States and the District of Columbia under the Presidents proclamation of July 18, 1864, with the amendment to the resolution reported by the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia; and

An amendment to the reported amendment being proposed by Mr. Collamer,

On motion by Mr. Grimes,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the resolution be postponed to Tuesday, the 31st of January.

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 186) to incorporate the Baltimore and Washington Depot and Potomac Ferry Railway Company; and the amendments reported by the committee having been agreed to,

On motion by Mr. Sumner to further amend the bill by inserting at the end of the 21st section the following:

Provided, That no person shall be excluded from any car on account of color,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 24

Nays 6

On motion by Mr. Saulsbury,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hicks, Howard, Howe, Morgan, Morrill Ramsey, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Van Winkle, Willey, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Davis, Hendricks, Powell, Richardson, Riddle, Saulsbury.

On motion by Mr. Sherman to amend the bill by striking out in section 1, line 19, after the word “river,” the following words: “with the right to construct a wharf into said river, the width of said P street, the outer or channel line of said wharf to be subject to the approval of the Superintendent of the Coast Survey, to be built under the supervision of the Superintendent of the Coast Survey, and so as not to interfere with the navigation of the Potomac river, and the use and maintenance of said wharf shall be subject to the municipal regulations of the city of Washington,”

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 8

Nays 20

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Collamer, Conness, Cowan, Davis, Harris, Sherman, Sprague, Ten Eyck.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Clark, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, Foster. Grimes, Harlan, Hendricks, Hicks, Johnson, Morgan, Morrill, Powell, Saulsbury, Sumner, Van Winkle, Willey, Wilson.

0080 80

The bill having been further amended, was reported to the Senate, and the amendments were concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendments be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendments.

On motion by Mr. Buckalew,

Ordered, That Mary F. B. Levely have leave to withdraw her petition and papers.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 96) in relation to the treatment of prisoners of war; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 583) to amend the twenty-first section of an act entitled “An act to define the pay and emoluments of certain officers of the army, and for other purposes.” approved July 17, 1862; and

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

WEDNESDAY, January 18, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Cowan presented a memorial of the Board of Trade, of Philadelphia praying the postponement of any action on the bankrupt bill, now pending, until opportunity is afforded northern creditors to enforce their claims against their debtors in the rebellious States; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Morgan presented a petition of medical storekeepers in the service of the United States, praying to be allowed the pay and emoluments of surgeons in the army; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia

Mr. Wade presented a letter of the Hon. B. F. Harding asking to be excused from further service upon the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War, and moved that he be excused from further service on that committee; and

The motion was agreed to.

Mr. Dixon presented a petition of citizens of Connecticut, praying the repeal of the tax on cigars, and that the tax may be placed on the raw material; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Dixon presented a petition of citizens of Hartford, Connecticut, engaged in the m?llinery and cloak-making business, praying that a specific tax may be imposed on each of said classes of work beyond a certain exempted amount of each, and that the internal revenue law may be modified accordingly; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Chandler presented resolutions of the Board of Trade of Detroit, Michigan, recommending the construction of a ship canal around the Falls of Niagara; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Harris presented additional papers in relation to the claim of Joshua D. Todd; which, with his petition on file, were referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Harris presented a petition of the local board of steamboat inspectors of Buffalo, New York York, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Trumbull presented a petition of the local board of steamboat inspectors of the eighth inspection district, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

0081 81

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

Ordered, That the Committee on Commerce be discharged from the further consideration of the resolution of the Senate instructing them to inquire into the expediency of consolidating the three great districts, and providing that licensed vessels may trade to ports on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts without entry or clearance at the custom-house.

Mr. Howard, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the resolution submitted by Mr. Wilkinson, on the 20th of December, in relation to the treatment of Union prisoners in rebel hands; also, a petition of citizens of Indiana, praying that all rebel prisoners may be placed in charge of exchanged Union prisoners and be subjected to like treatment as is inflicted upon Union officers and men in rebel prisons, reported a joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners by the insurgents; which were read and passed to a second reading.

On motion by Mr. Howard,

Ordered, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be discharged from the further consideration of the joint resolution (S. 95) regulating the treatment of confederate prisoners in custody of the authorities of the United States.

Mr. Grimes, from the Committee on Naval Affairs, to whom was referred the bill (S. 382) to provide for the better organization of the pay department of the navy, reported it with amendments.

Mr. Brown, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, who were instructed by a resolution of the Senate to inquire into the subject, reported a bill (S. 402) to repeal an act entitled “An act to remove the United States arsenal from the city of St. Louis, and to provide for the sale of the land on which the same is located; which was read and passed to a second reading.

Mr. Brown, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the bill (S. 359) to reimburse the State of Missouri for moneys expended for the United States, reported it without amendment and submitted a report, (No. 107;) which was ordered to be printed.

Mr. Anthony, from the Committee on Printing, to whom was referred the resolution to print three thousand copies of the Navy Register for 1864 for the use of the Senate, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution; and

The resolution was agreed to.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 621) making appropriations for the support of the Military Academy for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The bill (H. R. 621) last mentioned was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they this day presented to the President of the United States the following enrolled bills and joint resolution:

H. R. 163. An act for the relief of Charles Anderson, assignee of John James, of Texas.

H. R. 458. An act for the relief of George Mowry.

H. R. 56. Joint resolution providing for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of fifth of June, eighteen hundred and fifty-four, between the United States and Great Britain.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the following bills:

H. R. 203. An act for the relief of Jacob Weber.

H. R. 623. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to provide for carrying 6 0082 82 the mails from the United States to foreign ports, and for other purposes,” approved March 25, 1864.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 583) to amend the twenty-first section of an act entitled “An act to define the pay and emoluments of certain officers of the army, and for other purposes,” approved July 17, 1862; and,

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to to-morrow.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed two enrolled bills, (H. R. 203 and H. R. 623,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the joint resolution (H. R. 91) in relation n to the treaty of eighteen hundred and seventeen; and the amendment reported by the committee having been agreed to, the resolution was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed, and the resolution read a third time.

The said resolution, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

On motion, the title was amended to read: Joint resolution to terminate the treaty of eighteen hundred and seventeen, regulating the naval force on the lakes.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

The Vice-President signed the two enrolled bills (H. R. 203 and H. R. 623) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Postmaster General, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 12th instant, a statement showing the amount allowed and paid for attorneys' and counsel fees of every kind, exclusive of the regular salaries paid to district attorneys from the 1st day of July, 1863, to the 31st day of December, 1864: which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Dixon asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 98) tendering the thanks of Congress to Major General Alfred H. Terry, and to the officers and men under his command, for their gallantry and good conduct in the recent capture of Fort Fisher; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Dixon asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 99) tendering the thanks of Congress to Rear-Admiral David D. Porter and to the officers, petty officers, seamen, and marines under his command, for their gallantry and good conduct in the recent capture of Fort Fisher; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Clark, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 80) for the adjustment of the claim of J. and O. P. Cobb & Co., of Indiana, reported it with an amendment, and submitted a report, (No. 108;) which was ordered to be printed.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 583) to amend the twenty-first section of an act entitled “An act to 0083 83 define the pay and emoluments of certain officers of the army, and for other purposes,” approved July 17, 1862; and,

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

THURSDAY, January 19, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Sumner presented a petition of colored soldiers at Camp Casey, Virginia, praying that colored soldiers may be allowed the same pay and bounty as was promised to other soldiers at the same date of enlistment; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Trumbull presented the petition of William Nichols, a soldier of the war of 1812, praying a pension; which, with his petition and papers on file, was referred to the Committee on Pensions.

Mr. Morgan presented the petition of Josephine Rice, widow of Brigadier General James C. Rice, praying a pension; which was referred to the Committee on Pensions.

Mr. Wilson presented the petition of hospital stewards of the United States army, praying to be allowed the rank and pay of brevet second lieutenants of artillery, to take rank next after the graduates of the West Point Military Academy; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of medical officers in the service of the United States, praying an increase of the rank and pay of hospital stewards of the United States army; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. 98) tendering the thanks of Congress to Major General Alfred H. Terry, and to the officers and men under his command, for their gallantry and good conduct in the recent capture of Fort Fisher, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

On motion by Mr. Wilson, the title was amended to read: Joint resolution to present the thanks of Congress to Major General Alfred H. Terry and the officers and men under his command.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Grimes, from the Committee on Naval Affairs, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. 99) tendering the thanks of Congress to Rear-Admiral David D. Porter, and to the officers, petty officers, seamen, and marines under his command, for their gallantry and good conduct in the recent capture of Fort Fisher, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Sherman asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 403) to amend the act entitled “An act to encourage immigration,” approved July 4, 1864, and the act entitled “An act to regulate the carriage of passengers in steamships and other vessels,” approved March 3, 1855, and for 0084 84 other purposes; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 100) to extend the time for the payment of the special income tax by persons in the receipt of salaries from the United States government; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 404) to secure impartiality in the administration of justice in the District of Columbia; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and ordered to be printed.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has agreed to the amendment of the Senate to the bill of the House (H. R. 390) for the relief of Emily A. Lyon; and

It has passed the following bills, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate:

H. R. 640. An act providing for a district and a circuit court of the United States for the district of Nevada, and for other purposes.

H. R. 689. An act to provide for acting assistant treasurers or depositaries of the United States, and for other purposes.

The bills (H. R. 640 and H. R. 689) last mentioned were read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That the bill (H. R. 640) be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and that the bill (H. R. 689) be referred to the Committee on Finance.

On motion by Mr. Doolittle,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the joint resolution (S. 89) directing inquiry into the condition of the Indian tribes, and their treatment by the civil and military authorities; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Doolittle to amend the resolution by inserting, in line 4, after the word “Senate,” the words to be appointed by the President of the Senate; before the word “House,” the word present, and after the word “House,” the words to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives,

It was determined in the affirmative.

No further amendment being made to the joint resolution,

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they this day presented to the President of the United States the following enrolled bills:

H. R. 203. An act for the relief of Jacob Weber.

H. R. 623. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to provide for carrying the mails from the United States to foreign ports, and for other purposes,” approved March 25, 1864.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Navy, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 12th instant, information in relation to the amount paid for attorneys' and counsellors' fees for services rendered the Navy Department from July 1, 1863, to January 1, 1865; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Treasury, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 12th instant, information in relation to the amount paid for attorneys' fees by 0085 85 that department from the 1st of July, 1863, to the 1st of January, 1865; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Dixon presented a petition of contractors with the Navy Department for the building of certain vessels-of-war and the construction of engines for the use of the navy; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

On motion by Mr. Davis,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 94) for the relief of Isaac R. Diller; and while the same was under consideration,

The President announced that the hour of one o'clock had arrived, and called up the unfinished business of the Senate at its adjournment yesterday; and

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 583) to amend the twenty-first section of an act entitled “An act to define the pay and emoluments of certain officers of the army, and for other purposes,” approved July 17, 1862; and having been amended on the motion of Mr. Wilson, and further amended on the motion of Mr. Sherman, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendments were concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendments be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

On motion by Mr. Wilson, the title was amended by adding thereto the words and for other purposes.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendments.

The Senate resumed the consideration of the bill (H. R. 307) to regulate commerce among the several States; and,

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to, and made the special order of the day for, Tuesday, the 24th instant, at one o'clock—two-thirds of the senators present agreeing thereto.

On motion by Mr. Grimes,

Ordered, That when the Senate adjourn it be to Monday next.

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

The bill (S. 212) for the relief of Henry A. Brigham was read the second time and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

On the question, Shall the bill pass?

On motion by Mr. Trumbull that it be postponed indefinitely,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 16

Nays 17

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Brown, Chandler, Conness, Cowan, Dixon, Farwell, Foster, Grimes, Harlan, Henderson, Nesmith, Sprague, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Wilkinson, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Clark, Davis, Doolittle, Foot, Harris, Hendricks, Hicks, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Powell, Ramsey, Sumner, Van Winkle, Willey.

On the question, Shall the bill pass?

0086 86

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 21

Nays 10

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Clark, Cowan, Davis, Dixon, Doolittle, Foot, Harris, Hendricks, Hicks, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Powell, Ramsey, Sumner, Van Winkle, Wade, Willey, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Brown, Chandler, Farwell, Foster, Grimes, Harlan, Nesmith, Sprague, Trumbull, Wilkinson,

So it was

Resolved, That the bill pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill, (H. R. 390,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

MONDAY, January 23, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the bill (H. R. 390) for the relief of Emily A. Lyon.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled bill (H. R. 390) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating, in obedience to law, copies of the accounts of the superintendent and agents having in charge the refugee Creek, Choctaw, Chickasaw, and Seminole Indians, for the third quarter of 1864; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 12th instant, information in relation to the amount paid by that department for attorneys' and counsellors' fees, from June 30, 1863, to January 1, 1865; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 10th instant, information in relation to major and brigadier generals in the service of the United States, and officers of the regular army of the United States; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 5th instant, information in relation to the number of men enlisted in the naval service of the United States that have been credited upon the military quotas of the several States; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Wade presented resolutions of the legislature of Ohio, in favor of the passage of the joint resolution now pending in the House of Representatives, providing submitting to the several States the question of an amendment of for the Constitution of the United States abolishing slavery; which were read.

0087 87

Ordered, That they lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Chandler presented the credentials of the honorable Jacob M. Howard, elected a senator by the legislature of the State of Michigan for the term of six years, commencing on the 4th day of March, A. D. 1865; which were read.

Mr. Wade presented a petition of citizens of Ohio, praying that provision may be made for the exchange of Union soldiers now in the hands of the rebels; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Wade presented a memorial of a convention of publishers of weekly newspapers, held at Columbus, Ohio, January 4, 1865, praying a repeal of the duty on imported printing paper; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Wade presented thirty-four petitions of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Brown presented resolutions of the convention of the State of Missouri, in favor of an amendment of the Constitution of the United States abolishing slavery in all the States and Territories; which were read.

Ordered, That they lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Wilson presented fifty-six petitions of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Sumner presented a petition of acting assistant surgeons of the United States army, praying an increase of compensation, and that they may be exempted from draft, and reimbursed for all expenses necessarily incurred in the line of their duty; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Sumner presented a petition of citizens of the United States, praying the abolition and prohibition of slavery forever throughout the United States and its Territories; which was referred to the Select Committee on Slavery and Freedmen.

Mr. Howard presented a petition of clerks in the Treasury Department, praying an increase of salary; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Howard presented a petition of officers of the 4th Michigan infantry volunteers, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Harlan presented the memorial of Robert B. Riell, lieutenant United States navy, praying to be allowed his proper promotion in the line of commanders, alleged to have been denied him in consequence of the adverse report of the medical board; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Morgan presented the petition of Thomas Murphy, praying to be released from his contract of the 26th of June, 1864, for furnishing blankets for the government; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Van Winkle presented a petition of citizens of Baltimore, praying the adoption of the metric system of weights and measures; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Cowan presented a petition of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Grimes,

Ordered, That the memorial of John Ericsson, with the report of the Court of Claims on his claim, on the flies of the Senate, be referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 689) to provide for acting assistant treasurers or depositaries of the United States, in certain cases, reported it with an amendment.

0088 88

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Ordered, That the bill (S. 403) to amend the act entitled “An act to encourage immigration,” approved July 4, 1864, and the act entitled “An act to regulate the carriage of passengers in steamships and other vessels,” approved March 3, 1858, and for other purposes, be printed.

Mr. Sherman presented papers to accompany the bill (S. 403) last mentioned; which were ordered to be printed.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

Ordered, That the Committee on the Judiciary be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of William A. Hammond, late Surgeon General United States army, and that it be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Trumbull, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (S. 404) to secure impartiality in the administration of justice in the District of Columbia, reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

Resolved, That the bill be postponed indefinitely.

On motion by Mr. Lane, of Indiana,

Ordered, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be discharged from the further consideration of the memorial of the legislature of Oregon, in favor of the location of a national foundry, arsenal, and manufactory of arms, at the falls of the Willamette river, near Oregon City, in that State.

Mr. Clark asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 102) declaratory of the sense of Congress upon negotiations and terms of settlement with the rebels; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Dixon asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 101) proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 406) for the benefit of officers of the army in the field; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Morrill asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 405) for the relief of Lieutenant Commander Greenleaf Cilley, of the United States navy; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Morrill asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 103) for the relief of A. G. Bodfish; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Powell submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to inform the Senate why he has not appointed “a commission in each of the slave States, represented in Congress, charged to award to each loyal person to whom a colored volunteer may owe service, a just compensation, not exceeding three hundred dollars for each colored volunteer,” as he was directed to do by the 24th section of the act approved February 24, 1864, entitled “An act to amend an act entitled ‘An act for enrolling and calling out the national forces, and for other purposes,’” approved March 3, 1863.

0089 89

Mr. Grimes submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Treasury be directed to communicate to the Senate a full statement of all contracts executed by one Hanson A. Risley, an agent of the Treasury Department, or of the United States government, since the 4th day of July last, specifying the name or names of the parties with whom the contracts were made, the name or names of the persons at whose solicitations or upon whose recommendation the contracts were made, the date of each contract, the amount and description of goods, property, or material thus contracted for, where to be procured, or where represented to be situated at the date of the contract, when to be delivered to the agent of the treasury, and at what price.

Resolved, further, That the Secretary of the Treasury be directed to communicate to the Senate the same particulars in relation to any other contracts made by treasury agents that have been returned to or that are known to the department.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Treasury be, and he is hereby, directed to furnish the Senate, on or before the 15th day of February next, a statement showing the amount of collections in each internal revenue collection district, and the amount of moneys deposited in authorized depositories, or paid to the commissioners of internal revenue on drafts, or otherwise, by the collectors of each district, from the date when the excise act went into operation to the 30th day of June, 1864, with the differences between the amounts collected and the amounts deposited, or paid over, as aforesaid, by the collectors in each district, and the total differences in the amounts for said period.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Treasury be, and he is hereby, directed to furnish the Senate, on or before the 15th day of February next, separate and detailed statements, showing the amount of public moneys deposited and the amount withdrawn from each of the national banks, during each month, from the date of their organization to June 30, 1864, with the difference between the sums deposited and withdrawn monthly, in each case, and the amount of the differences.

On motion by Mr. Davis,

Ordered, That the Secretary be directed to request the House of Representatives to return to the Senate the bill (S. 212) for the relief of Henry A. Brigham, which passed the Senate on the 19th instant, and was sent to the House for its concurrence.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has agreed to the amendments of the Senate to the following bills of the House:

H. R. 598. An act making appropriations for the consular and diplomatic expenses of the government for the year ending 30th of June, 1866;

H. R. 607. An act to provide for an advance of rank to the officers of the navy and marine corps for distinguished merit; and

It has passed the following bill and joint resolution of the Senate:

S. 72. An act supplementary to an act entitled “An act to prescribe an oath of office, and for other purposes,” approved July 2, 1862.

S. 99. Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Rear-Admiral David D. Porter, and to the officers, petty officers, seamen, and marines under his command, for their gallantry and good conduct in the recent capture of Fort Fisher.

The House of Representatives has passed the joint resolution of the Senate 0090 90 (S. 98) to present the thanks of Congress to Major General Alfred H. Terry and the officers and men under his command, with an amendment, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate; and

It has passed the following bills and joint resolutions, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate:

H. R. 631. An act to provide for holding courts in the western district of Missouri, and to prescribe the times thereof.

H. R. 649. An act making appropriations for the legislative, executive, and judicial expenses of the government for the year ending June 30, 1866.

H. R. 659. An act making appropriations for the service of the Post Office Department during the fiscal year ending 30th of June, 1866.

H. R. 664. An act for changing the time for holding the circuit courts in the district of Virginia.

H. R. 677. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to provide ways and means for the support of the government, and for other purposes,” approved June 30, 1864.

H. R. 692. An act in reference to prosecutions for libel in the District of Columbia.

H. R. 139. Joint resolution of thanks to Major General George H. Thomas and the army under his command.

H. R. 140. Joint resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to give the necessary notice stipulated pending the intention of the United States to purchase the building known as the Merchants' Exchange, New York city, now used for custom-house purposes.

The President of the United States approved and signed, on the 18th instant, the following acts and joint resolution:

H. R. 163. An act for the relief of Charles Anderson, assignee of John James, of Texas;

H. R. 458. An act for the relief of George Mowry;

H. R. 56. Joint resolution providing for the termination of the reciprocity treaty of 5th June, 1854, between the United States and Great Britain; and

On the 20th instant he approved and signed the following:

H. R. 203. An act for the relief of Jacob Weber.

H. R. 623. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to provide for carrying the mails from the United States to foreign ports, and for other purposes,” approved March 25, 1864.

On motion by Mr. Wilkinson,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (S. 295) making additional grant of lands to the State of Minnesota, in alternate sections, to aid in the construction of a railroad in said State; and,

On motion by Mr. Wilkinson,

Ordered, That it be recommitted to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Nesmith, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the resolution submitted by Mr. Powell, the 7th December, calling for the report of the military commission appointed to investigate the conduct of Brigadier General Paine, reported it with an amendment.

The Senate resumed the consideration of the said resolution; and the amendment reported by the committee having been agreed to, the resolution, as amended, was agreed to as follows:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to transmit to the Senate the report and evidence taken by a military commission, of which Brigadier General Speed S. Fry was president, appointed to investigate the conduct of Brigadier General Paine, of the United States army, in and about Paducah, Kentucky, the defence of Brigadier General Paine, the review of Judge Advocate Holt, and all the papers relating to the case.

Mr. Davis, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the joint 0091 91 resolution (H. R. 102) for the relief of Captain M. M. Hawes, reported it without amendment, and submitted an adverse report, (No. 109;) which was ordered to be printed.

On motion by Mr. Harlan that the Senate reconsider the vote on the passage of the joint resolution (H. R. 99) reserving mineral lands from the operation of all acts passed at the present session granting lands or extending the time of former grants,

It was determined in the affirmative.

The vote ordering the joint resolution to be read a third time was also reconsidered; and,

The resolution having been amended on the motion of Mr. Harlan,

Ordered, That the amendments be engrossed and the resolution read a third time.

The said resolution, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

The title was amended to read: Joint resolution reserving mineral lands from the operation of all acts passed at the first session of the thirty-eighth Congress, granting lands or extending the time of former grants.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendments.

Mr. Sherman, from the committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two houses on the bill (H. R. 620) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending the 30th of June, 1865, reported that, having met the conferees on the part of the House, after full and free conference, the committee had been unable to agree.

On motion by Mr. Sherman that the Senate further insist upon its amendments to the said bill, disagreed to by the House of Representatives, and ask a further conference on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 35

Nay 1

On motion by Mr. Morgan,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Buckalew, Chandler, Clark, Conness, Davis, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Hale, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Powell, Richardson, Riddle, Saulsbury, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Wilkinson, Willey, Wilson.

Mr. McDougall voted in the negative.

So the motion of Mr. Sherman was agreed to.

Ordered, That the conferees on the part of the Senate be appointed by the Vice-President; and

The Vice-President appointed Mr. Clark, Mr. Trumbull, and Mr. Powell.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

The joint resolution (H. R. 140) authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to give the necessary notice stipulated pending the intention of the United States to purchase the building known as the Merchants' Exchange, New York city, now used for custom-house purposes, was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said resolution was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

The residue of the bills and joint resolutions last received from the House 0092 92 of Representatives for concurrence were read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That the bills H. R. 649, H. R. 659, and H. R. 677 be referred to the Committee on Finance; that the bills H. R. 631, H. R. 664, and H. R. 692 be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary; and that the joint resolution H. R. 139 he referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

The Senate resumed the consideration of the bill (S. 136) for the relief of A. T. Spencer and Gurdon S. Hubbard; and no amendment being made,

Ordered, That the bill be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Hale,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (H. R. 94) for the relief of Isaac H. Diller; and the amendment reported by the committee having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

On motion by Mr. Hale that the bill be postponed indefinitely,

It was determined in the negative.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

On the question, Shall the bill pass?

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 26

Nays 9

On motion by Mr. Hale,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Buckalew, Carlile, Clark, Conness, Cowan, Davis, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Powell, Richardson, Riddle, Saulsbury, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Wilkinson, Willey.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Chandler, Dixon, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Hale, Harlan, Wilson.

So it was

Resolved, That the said bill pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the amendment of the House of Representatives to the resolution of the Senate (S. 98) to present the thanks of Congress to Major General Alfred H. Terry and the officers and men under Ms command; and

Resolved, That the Senate agree thereto.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Brown,

The bill (S. 402) to repeal an act entitled “An act to remove the United States arsenal from the city of St. Louis, and to provide for the sale of the land on which the same is located,” was read the second time, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

0093 93

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Grimes,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (S. 382) to provide for the better organization of the pay department of the navy; and the amendments reported by the committee having been agreed to, and the bill further amended on the motion of Mr. Trumbull, it was reported to the Senate, and the amendments were concurred in.

Ordered, That the bill be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill Was read the third time.

On the question, Shall the bill pass?

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 27

Nays 4

On motion by Mr. Hale,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Carlile, Clark, Conness, Cowan, Dixon, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Harlan, Harris, Hendricks, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Powell, Riddle, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Willey.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Davis, Farwell, Hale.

So it was

Resolved, That the bill pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Wade,

The joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners by the insurgents was read the second time, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and,

On motion by Mr. Hendricks,

Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be postponed to to-morrow.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the following bills:

H. R. 598. An act making appropriations for the consular and diplomatic expenses of the government for the year ending June 30, 1866.

H. R. 607. An act to provide for an advance of rank to officers in the navy and marine corps for distinguished merit.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has directed that the bill (S. 212) for the relief of Henry A. Brigham be returned to the Senate, agreeably to its request; and

It has passed a joint resolution (H. R. 141) reducing the duty on printing paper unsized, used for books and newspapers exclusively, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed two enrolled bills, (H. R. 598 and H. R. 607,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Vice-President signed the two enrolled bills (H. R. 598, H. R. 607) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The joint resolution (H. R. 141) reducing the duty on printing paper unsized, used for books and newspapers exclusively, was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Finance.

On motion by Mr. Davis to reconsider the vote on the passage of the bill (S. 212) for the relief of Henry A. Brigham,

0094 94

Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be postponed to to-morrow.

On motion by Mr. Clark,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the joint resolution (H. R. 80) for the adjustment of the claim of J. and O. P. Cobb & Co., of Indiana; and,

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Clark,

Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be postponed to to-morrow.

On motion by Mr. Clark,

Ordered, That the Vice-President appoint a member to fill the vacancy in the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War, occasioned by the resignation of Mr. Harding as a member of that committee.

After the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

TUESDAY, January 24, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the following bill and joint resolutions:

S. 72. An act supplementary to an act entitled “An act to prescribe an oath of office, and for other purposes,” approved July 2, 1862.

S. 98. Joint resolution to present the thanks of Congress to Brevet Major General Alfred H. Terry and the officers and men under his command.

S. 99. Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Rear-Admiral David D. Porter and to the officers, petty officers, seamen, and marines under his command, for their gallantry and good conduct in the recent capture of Fort Fisher.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill (S. 72) and two enrolled joint resolutions, (S. 98 and S. 99,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled bill (S. 72) and the two enrolled joint resolutions (S. 98 and S. 99) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The Vice-President announced the appointment of Mr. Buckalew to fill the vacancy in the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War.

Mr. Ten Eyck presented a memorial of citizens of the counties of Hudson and Bergen, New Jersey; a memorial of the town council of Bergen, New Jersey; a memorial of the mayor and common council of Hudson city, New Jersey; a memorial of the mayor and common council of Jersey City, New Jersey; and a memorial of members of the legislature of New Jersey, praying that the “Act to annex a part of the State of New Jersey to the collection district of New York, and to appoint an assistant collector to reside at Jersey City,” approved February 21, 1863, may be so amended that the said assistant collector shall have the charge of loading and unloading vessels to and from foreign ports, the warehousing of merchandise, and be empowered to enrol and license coasting vessels owned in whole or in part in the said counties of Bergen and Hudson; which were referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Cowan presented a memorial of the Board of Trade of Philadelphia, remonstrating against any reduction of the duty on unsized paper; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Cowan presented a petition of the local board of steamboat inspectors of Philadelphia, praying an increase of salary; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Howe presented the memorial of S. D. Carpenter, praying an examination of his invention of a new method of defensive armor in the construction of war vessels, with a view to its adoption by the government; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

0095 95

On motion by Mr. Howe that the memorial be printed,

Ordered, That the motion be referred to the Committee on Printing.

Mr. Ramsey presented the petition of Joseph Nock, praying an extension of his patent for an improved mail-lock; which was referred to the Committee on Patents and the Patent Office.

Mr. Harlan presented a petition of settlers in Alameda county, California, remonstrating against the passage of any act granting the lands on which they have their homes to the claimants of the pretended San José Mission grant and to parties claiming by purchase under them; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Chandler presented a petition of the local board of steamboat inspectors of Detroit, praying an increase of salary; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Morgan presented resolutions of the legislature of New York, in favor of the passage of the joint resolution submitting to the legislatures of the several States a proposition to amend the Constitution of the United States abolishing slavery; which were read.

Ordered, That they lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Wilkinson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the use of the Senate chamber be tendered to Bishop Simpson on to-morrow (Wednesday) evening, for the purpose of delivering a lecture therein.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Finance be directed to examine the system of cheeks in the office of the Register of the Treasury, and report if any legislation is needed for the safer keeping of the public securities there; and also what losses, if any, of public securities have occurred in that office during the last year, and the circumstances of said losses.

Mr. Howe, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the following bills and joint resolution, reported them severally without amendment, and that they ought not to pass:

H. R. 479. An act for the relief of John Warren and Son.

H. R. 489. An act for the relief of D. McV. Stuart.

H. R. 48. Joint resolution for the relief of Aaron V. Doll.

The Senate proceeded to consider said bills and joint resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, they were reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Howe,

Resolved, That the said bills and joint resolution be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Anthony, from the Committee on Claims, to whom were referred the following bills, reported them severally without amendment, and that they ought not to pass:

H. R. 111. An act for the relief of Major John A. Whitall, paymaster in the United States army, on account of lost or stolen vouchers.

H. R. 387. An act for the relief of Solomon Parsons.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 621) making appropriations for the support of the Military Academy for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866, reported it with amendments.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 659) making appropriations for the service of the Post Office Department during the fiscal year ending the 30th of June, 1866, reported it without amendment.

0096 96

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of George W. Allen.

Mr. Dixon, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom was referred the bill (S. 386) to incorporate the National Protection Insurance Company of the District of Columbia, reported it without amendment.

Mr. McDougall asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 407) to authorize the establishment of ocean mail steamship service between the United States and China; which was read the first and second times by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 408) in addition to the several acts for enrolling and calling out the national forces, and for other purposes; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Morrill asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 409) to incorporate the Potomac Navigation and Transportation Company of the District of Columbia; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 689) to provide for acting assistant treasurers or depositaries of the United States in certain cases; and the amendment reported by the committee having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

On motion by Mr. Henderson,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (S. 359) to reimburse the State of Missouri for moneys expended for the United States; and the blank in the third section having been filled on the motion of Mr. Henderson,

On motion by Mr. Brown,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to, and made the special order of the day for, Tuesday, the 31st instant, at one o'clock—two-thirds of the senators present agreeing thereto.

On motion by Mr. Powell,

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution yesterday submitted by him, calling upon the Secretary of War for a statement of the reasons why the provisions of the 24th section of the act of February 24, 1864, relative to the appointment of a commission in certain States to award compensation to loyal persons for their slaves enlisted in the military service of the United States, have not been executed; and,

After debate,

Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be postponed to to-morrow.

The President announced that the hour of one o'clock had arrived, and called up the special order of the day for that hour, which was the bill (H. R. 307) to regulate commerce among the several States; and

The Senate resumed the consideration of the said bill.

On motion by Mr. Wade,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to to-morrow.

0097 97

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they this day presented to the President of the United States the following enrolled bills:

H. R. 390. An act for the relief of Emily A. Lyon.

H. R. 607. An act to provide for an advance of rank to officers of the navy and marine corps for distinguished merit.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the joint resolution (H. R. 140) authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to give the necessary notice stipulated, pending the intention of the United States to purchase the building known as the Merchants' Exchange, New York city, now used for custom-house purposes.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives further insists upon its disagreement to the amendments of the Senate to the bill of the House (H. R. 620) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending the 30th of June, 1865, insisted upon by the Senate. It agrees to the further conference asked by the Senate on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon, and has appointed Mr. Schenck, Mr. Littlejohn, and Mr. S. J. Randall managers at the same on its part.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled joint resolution, (H. R. 140,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The House of Representatives has passed a joint resolution (H. R. 143) to facilitate the adjustment of certain accounts of the American Colonization Society for the support of recaptured Africans in Liberia, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 140) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they this day presented to the President of the United States the following enrolled bill and joint resolutions:

S. 72. An act supplementary to an act entitled “An act to prescribe an oath of office, and for other purposes,” approved July 2, 1862.

S. 98. Joint resolution to present the thanks of Congress to Brevet Major General Alfred H. Terry and to the officers and men under his command.

S. 99. Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Rear-Admiral David D. Porter and to the officers, petty officers, seamen, and marines under his command, for their gallantry and good conduct in the recent capture of Fort Fisher.

On motion by Mr. Wade,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners by the insurgents; and an amendment being proposed by Mr. Sumner, and an amendment to the amendment being proposed by Mr. Wilson,

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Henderson,

The Senate adjourned.

WEDNESDAY, January 25, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President presented a letter of Dr. Rudolph Wieczorek, recommending the abolition of slavery; the transformation of States and counties into provinces and circuits; the abrogation of State laws and State banks; and a radical reform in the public land system of the United States; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Trumbull presented a petition of chaplains in the United States navy, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs. 7

0098 98

Mr. Willey presented a petition of the heirs of Major Andrew Russell, praying compensation for services claimed to have been rendered by him in the revolutionary war; which was referred to the Committee on Revolutionary Claims.

Mr. Henderson presented a petition of manufacturers of tobacco, of St. Louis, Missouri; and resolutions of a meeting of shippers of tobacco, of Baltimore, Maryland, remonstrating against the proposed tax on leaf tobacco; which were referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Wilson presented four petitions of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Johnson presented a petition of the local board of steamboat inspectors, of Baltimore, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Johnson presented resolutions of a meeting of receivers and shippers of tobacco, of Baltimore, Maryland, remonstrating against the proposed tax on leaf tobacco; which were referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Cowan presented a petition of citizens of the United States, praying such an amendment of the Constitution as will more fully recognize the obligations of the Christian religion; which was referred to the Select Committee on Slavery and Freedmen.

Mr. Pomeroy presented the memorial of Abelard Guthrie, praying to be allowed mileage and per diem as a delegate from the Territory of Nebraska to the thirty-second Congress; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Chandler presented a petition of citizens of the State of Michigan, praying a grant of lands to aid in the construction of a railroad from Lac La Belle to the Cliff mine, Keweenaw county; thence to some point on the Montreal river, the western boundary of the upper peninsula of that State; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Wade submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Commerce be instructed to inquire into the expediency of compiling and publishing, from the reports on the in the Engineer bureau of the War Department, a series of charts and surveys of the ports and harbors of the great lakes—said compilation to be made after the manner of the Coast Survey reports.

Mr. Farwell submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Finance consider the expediency of relieving the tonnage of the country from all taxes and dues collected under the internal revenue act, also to consider the expediency of the reduction of the duties on chains, anchors, and canvas.

On motion by Mr. Anthony,

The Senate proceeded to consider the following resolution, reported at the last session, from the Committee on Printing, to wit:

Resolved, That the papers relative to Mexican affairs, communicated to the Senate by the President of the United States, June 20, 1864, be printed; and

The resolution was agreed to.

On motion by Mr. Powell,

The Senate resumed the consideration of the resolution submitted by him on the 23d instant in relation to the appointment of a commissioner in certain States to award compensation to loyal persons for their slaves, where they have been enlisted in the military service of the United States; and

The resolution having been amended on the motion of Mr. Powell, it was agreed to, as amended, as follows:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to inform the Senate whether or not he has appointed “a commission in each of the slave States 0099 99 represented in Congress, charged to award to each loyal person, to whom a colored volunteer may owe service, a just compensation, not exceeding three hundred dollars, for each colored volunteer,” as required by the 24th section of the act approved February 24, 1864, entitled “An act to amend an act entitled ‘An act for enrolling and calling out the national forces, and for other purposes,’” approved March 3, 1863. If he has not appointed said commission, that he inform the Senate why he has not done so.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they yesterday presented to the President of the United States the enrolled bill (H. R. 598) making appropriations for the consular and diplomatic expenses of the government for the year ending 30th June, 1866.

Mr. Anthony, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 530) for the relief of George Calvert, reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

Mr. Trumbull, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 692) in reference to prosecutions for libel in the District of Columbia, reported it without amendment.

Mr. Trumbull, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 664) for changing the time for holding the circuit courts in the district of Virginia, reported it without amendment.

On motion by Mr. Grimes,

Ordered, That the Committee on Naval Affairs be discharged from the further consideration of the memorial of Robert B. Riell, lieutenant United States navy.

Mr. Foster, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 424) to establish a uniform system of bankruptcy throughout the United States, reported it with an amendment.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

Ordered, That the Committee on the Judiciary be discharged from the further consideration of the following petitions and memorials:

Petition of citizens of Illinois, praying the passage of a bankrupt act.

Petition of merchants of Boston; memorial of the Board of Trade of Boston; and a memorial of the Board of Trade of Philadelphia, praying a postponement of the passage of a bankrupt act.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be discharged from the further consideration of the memorial of William A. Hammond, late Surgeon General of the United States army.

Mr. Cowan asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 410) to enlarge the port of entry and delivery for the district of Philadelphia; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Commerce.

The joint resolution (H. R. 143) to facilitate the adjustment of certain accounts of the American Colonization Society, for the support of recaptured Africans in Liberia, was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they this day presented to the President of the United States the enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 140) authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to give the necessary notice stipulated, pending the intention of the United States to purchase the building known as Merchants' Exchange, New York city, now used for custom-house purposes.

A message from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

Mr. President: The President of the United States approved and signed, on the 24th instant, the following act and joint resolutions: 0100 100

S. 72. An act supplementary to an act entitled “An act to prescribe an oath of office, and for other purposes,” approved July 2, 1862.

S. 98. Joint resolution to present the thanks of Congress to Brevet Major General Alfred H. Terry and the officers and men under his command.

S. 99. Joint resolution tendering the thanks of Congress to Rear-Admiral David D. Porter, and to the officers, petty officers, seamen, and marines under his command, for their gallantry and good conduct in the recent capture of Fort Fisher.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has receded from its disagreement to the first, second, sixth, seventh, and eighth amendments of the Senate to the bill of the House (H. R. 620) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending June 30, 1865; and it has adhered to its disagreement to the fourth amendment of the Senate to the said bill.

Mr. Clark, from the committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two houses on the bill (H. R. 620) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending June 30, 1865 reported: that having met, after full and free conference, the committee had been unable to agree.

The Senate proceeded to consider its fourth amendment to the bill (H. R. 620) last mentioned, disagreed to by the House of Representatives, and to which disagreement the House has adhered, and which amendment is as follows:

On page 4 of the bill, from line 22 to line 8, on the 5th page, strike out the following words:

“To enable the Clerk of the House of Representatives to execute the resolutions of the House of July 4, 1864, directing payment of additional compensation to its officers, clerks, and other employés, and to the House reporters for the Congressional Globe, a sum sufficient for that purpose, being thirty-seven thousand nine hundred and ninety-one dollars and forty cents, is hereby appropriated out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated, and the same is hereby added to the contingent fund of the House of Representatives: but no payment shall be made under this provision to any other persons than the clerks, officers, and other employés of the House, and the reporters for the Congressional Globe.”

On motion by Mr. Clark, that the Senate adhere to its said fourth amendment,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 38

Nays 1

On motion by Mr. Clark,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Brown, Buckalew, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Cowan, Davis, Dixon, Doolittle, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Harding, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Hicks, Howard, Howe, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Pomeroy, Powell, Ramsey, Richardson, Riddle, Saulsbury, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Wade, Wright.

Mr. Carlile voted in the negative.

So it was

Resolved, That the Senate adhere to its fourth amendment to the said bill.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners by the insurgents; and an amendment being proposed by Mr. Wade,

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Johnson,

The Senate adjourned.

THURSDAY, January 26, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a letter of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating a report of the chief engineer of the Washington aqueduct, showing the condition of the work and the present state of the appropriations authorized and provided for by the act of July 4, 1864; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 25th instant, information in relation to the appointment of a commissioner in each of the slave States represented in Congress, charged to award to each loyal person to whom a colored volunteer may owe service a just compensation; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 17th instant, information in relation to the muster-rolls of such of the regiments raised in the State of Maryland during the present war as were composed in whole or in part of those who were slaves at the time of their enlistment or draft; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 22d of December, information in relation to volunteers called out in the State of Delaware for thirty days and for one hundred days; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Riddle presented the credentials of the honorable Willard Saulsbury, elected a senator by the legislature of the State of Delaware for the term of six years, commencing on the 4th day of March, A. D. 1865; which were read.

Mr. Sprague presented resolutions of the legislature of the State of Rhode Island, in favor of the passage of the joint resolution submitting to the legislatures of the several States the question of an amendment of the Constitution of the United States abolishing slavery: which were read.

Ordered, That they lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Grimes presented a petition of chaplains in the United States navy, praying that their pay may be increased to that of line officers, with whom they rank; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Clark presented a memorial of Sweeney, Rittenhouse, Fant & Co., praying that their claim reported upon adversely by the Court of Claims, January 23, 1862, may be referred back to that court for a reheating; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Ten Eyck presented a memorial of the mayor and council of Hoboken, New Jersey, and a memorial of masters and owners of vessels, of the counties of Hudson and Bergen, New Jersey, praying an amendment of the act of February 21, 1863, “annexing a part of the State of New Jersey to the collection district of New York,” so as to enlarge the powers of the assistant collector resident at Jersey City in relation to the loading, unloading, entry, and clearance of vessels; which were referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Wilson presented the petition of Josiah Copeland; the petition of Josiah M. Read, and a petition of boot manufacturers of Boston, praying an extension of the patent for crimping boots known as “Read's improvement;” which were referred to the Committee on Patents and the Patent Office.

Mr. Morgan presented the memorial of W. H. Webb, praying additional 0102 102 allowance on his contract for the construction of the iron-clad screw-ram called the “Dunderberg;” which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Morgan presented a petition of citizens of New York, praying the passage of a law authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to issue duplicates of United States bonds, certificates, and scrip which have been or may be lost or destroyed; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Harris presented the petition of Jane W. Nethaway, praying an allowance of the back pay and bounty claimed to be due her late husband, David Nethaway, deceased; which was referred to the Committee on Pensions.

Mr. Farwell presented resolutions of the legislature of Maine, in favor of the abrogation of the reciprocity treaty; which were read.

Ordered, That they lie on the table.

Mr. Collamer, from the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads, to whom was referred the bill (S. 392) supplementary to an act approved July 14, 1862, entitled “An act to establish certain post roads,” reported it with amendments.

Mr. Chandler, from the Committee on Commerce, to whom was referred the petition of light-house keepers in Narragansett bay, praying an increase of salary, reported adversely thereon.

Mr. Anthony, from the Committee on Naval Affairs, to whom was referred the petition of Benjamin Vreeland, reported a bill (S. 412) for the relief of Benjamin Vreeland; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and

On motion by Mr. Hale,

Ordered, That the further consideration thereof be postponed to to-morrow.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed the bill of the Senate (S. 381) to amend the act entitled “An act to amend and extend the charter of the Franklin Insurance Company,” approved 2d March, 1838; and

It has passed a joint resolution (H. R. 142) tendering the thanks of Congress to Major General Philip H. Sheridan and the officers and men under his command, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The joint resolution (H. R. 142) last mentioned was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 677) to amend an act entitled “An act to provide ways and means for the support of the government, and for other purposes,” approved June 30, 1864, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Morrill asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 411) to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company in the District of Columbia;” which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 621) making appropriations for the support of the Military Academy for the year ending the 30th of June, 1866; and the amendments reported by the committee having been agreed to, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendments were concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendments be engrossed and the bill read a third time.

0103 103

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendments.

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole. the bill (S. 376) to amend an act entitled “An act to amend an act to incorporate the inhabitants of the city of Washington, passed May 15, 1820,” approved May 5, 1864; and,

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

Ordered, That it be recommitted to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 659) making appropriations for the service of the Post Office Department during the fiscal year ending the 30th June, 1866; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

On motion by Mr. Harris,

The Senate proceeded to consider the motion submitted by Mr. Davis, the 23d instant, that the Senate reconsider the vote on the passage of the bill (S. 212) for the relief of Henry A. Brigham; and,

On the question to agree to the motion to reconsider the said vote,

It was determined in the negative.

Ordered, That the Secretary return the said bill to the House of Representatives for its concurrence.

On motion by Mr. Anthony,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 387) for the relief of Solomon Parsons; and

On motion by Mr. Anthony,

Ordered, That it be recommitted to the Committee on Claims.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 705) for the relief of collectors and surveyors of the customs in certain cases, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The President of the United States approved and signed, on the 24th instant, the following acts:

H. R. 390. An act for the relief of Emily A. Lyon;

H. R. 598. An act making appropriations for the consular and diplomatic expenses of the government for the year ending 30th June, 1866;

H. R. 607. An act to provide for an advance of rank to officers of the navy and marine corps for distinguished merit; and,

On the 25th instant, he approved and signed a joint resolution (H. R. 140) authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to give the necessary notice stipulated, pending the intention of the United States to purchase the building known as the Merchants' Exchange, New York city, now used for customhouse purposes.

The bill (H. R. 705) last received from the House of Representatives for concurrence was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Grimes submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That there be added to the standing committees of the Senate a Committee on Banks and Banking Institutions, to consist of seven members.

Mr. Hicks reported from the committee that they had examined and found 0104 104 duly enrolled the bill (S. 384) to amend the act entitled “An act to amend and extend the charter of the Franklin Insurance Company,” approved March 2, 1838.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the bill (H. R. 677) to amend an act entitled “An act to provide ways and means for the support of government, and for other purposes,” approved June 30, 1864.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed two enrolled bills, (S. 384 and H. R. 677,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Vice-President signed the two enrolled bills (S. 384 and H. R. 677) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners by the insurgents; and the question being upon the amendment proposed by Mr. Wade,

On motion by Mr. Wilson to recommit the resolution and amendments to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia,

After debate, and the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

FRIDAY, January 27, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Treasury, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 23d instant, information in relation to the amount of collections in each internal revenue collection district, and the amount of moneys deposited in authorized depositories as paid to the Commissioner of Internal Revenue by the collector of each district; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Sumner presented the credentials of the honorable Henry Wilson, elected a senator by the legislature of the State of Massachusetts for the term of six years, commencing on the fourth day of March, A.D. 1865; which were read.

Mr. Wilson presented the petition of Hollenbeck and Zeigler, praying payment for property alleged to have been taken by the military forces under the command of Major General Sherman; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Sherman presented a petition of citizens of Ohio, clerks in the War Department; a petition of citizens of Ohio, clerks in the Treasury Department; and a petition of citizens of Ohio, clerks in the Interior Department, praying an increase of salary; which were referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Sumner presented a petition of citizens of Massachusetts, clerks in the Interior Department; a petition of citizens of Massachusetts, clerks in the Treasury Department; a petition of citizens of Massachusetts, clerks in the Navy Department; and a petition of citizens of Massachusetts, clerks in the War Department, praying an increase of salary; which were referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Clark, from the Committee on Claims, to whom were referred the memorial of Frederick Bauer, in behalf of the German Evangelical Church, of Martinsburg, Virginia; the petition of James M. Confer, late surgeon of the 29th regiment Indiana volunteers; the petition of Frederick Miller, and the petition of George P. Ihrie, reported a recommendation that the further consideration of the said memorial and petitions be postponed indefinitely; and

The report was agreed to.

Mr. Howe, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. 71) authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to dispose of certain 0105 105 moneys therein mentioned, reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Howe,

Resolved, That the said resolution be postponed indefinitely.

Mr. Howe, from the Committee on Claims, to whom were referred the memorial of Henry Charles De Ahna and the petition of Charles de Arnaud, reported a recommendation that the further consideration thereof be postponed indefinitely; and

The report was agreed to.

Mr. Anthony, from the Committee on Claims, to whom were referred the memorial of Peter Hays, G. F. Randall, and Peter Monseroone, and the memorial of James N. Carpenter, paymaster United States navy, reported a recommendation that the further consideration thereof be postponed indefinitely; and

The report was agreed to.

Mr. Morrill, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom was recommitted the bill (S. 376) to amend an act entitled “An act to amend an act to incorporate the inhabitants of the city of Washington, passed May 15, 1820,” approved May 5, 1864, reported it with an amendment.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the said bill; and the reported amendment having been agreed to, and no further amendment being made, the bill was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the bill be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Cowan, from the Committee on Patents and the Patent Office, to whom was referred the bill (S. 387) amendatory of an act entitled “An act to promote the progress of the useful arts,” approved March 3, 1863, reported it without amendment.

Mr. Collamer, from the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads, to whom, was referred the bill (S. 390) relating to the postal laws, reported it with amendments.

Mr. Sherman asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 413) to establish a certain post road; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Committee on the Conduct of the War be instructed to inquire into, and report upon, the action of Brevet Major General Jeff. C. Davis, in preventing a number of negroes, who had joined the army on the march through Georgia, from crossing a creek known as Ebenezer creek, near Savannah, by burning the bridge after the troops had crossed, on the night of the 8th of December last, many of these negroes having been killed by the rebel cavalry, or drowned in attempting to cross the creek on rafts.

Mr. Anthony submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Printing:

Resolved, That five hundred additional copies of the correspondence on Mexican affairs, heretofore ordered to be printed, be printed for the use of the Senate

Mr. Trumbull submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That a committee, consisting of three members, be appointed by 0106 106 the President of the Senate, to join such committee as may be appointed by the House of Representatives, to ascertain and report a mode of examining the votes for President and Vice-President of the United States, and of notifying the persons chosen of their election.

The Vice-President appointed Mr. Trumbull, Mr. Conness, and Mr. Wright, the committee on the part of the Senate.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the foregoing resolution.

Mr. Davis submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War inform the Senate how many men in the aggregate, both for the military and naval service, have been recruited in each State, and how many negroes for such services have been recruited in each State, and how many negroes have been recruited in the State of Kentucky, and how many in each county in said State, giving on each head aggregate numbers.

Mr. Conness submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Treasury be directed to instruct the collectors of customs to enforce the act entitled “An act to regulate the carriage of passengers in steamships and other vessels,” approved March three, eighteen hundred and fifty-five, and the act entitled “An act further to regulate the carriage of passengers in steamships and other vessels,” approved July 4, 1864, and all other existing acts of Congress relating to the carriage of passengers by steamships and other vessels.

Mr. Conness presented a paper in reference to the subject-matter of the foregoing resolution; which was read.

Mr. Pomeroy asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 104) for the return of Arkansas to the Union; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Howard asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 414) to authorize the construction of the Northern Pacific railroad eastward to Ontonagon, in the State of Michigan, and provide for its connexion eastward with the Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and Canadian system of railroads, at Port Huron, Detroit, Toledo, Fort Wayne, and Dayton; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Public Lands, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Harris asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 415) to amend an act entitled “An act to restrict the jurisdiction of the Court of Claims, and to provide for the payment of certain demands for quartermasters' stores and subsistence supplies furnished to the army of the United States,” approved July 4, 1864; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Doolittle presented a petition of medical officers in the 3d division of the 5th army corps, praying an increase of the pay of surgeons and assistant surgeons in the military service of the United States; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Howard presented the memorial of Ernst Maurice Buerger, praying that ministers of the gospel may be exempted from military duty; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the bill (H. R. 659) making appropriations for the service of the Post Office Department during the fiscal year ending the 30th of June, 1866.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. Lloyd, chief clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 709) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year 0107 107 ending the 30th of June, 1865; in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled bill, (H. R. 659,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled bill (H. R. 659) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (H. R. 222) to extinguish the Indian title to lands in the Territory of Utah, suitable for agricultural and mineral purposes; and,

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

Ordered, That the bill be recommitted to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

The bill (H. R. 709) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending the 30th of June, 1865, was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole.

On motion by Mr. Clark to amend the bill by striking out the second section, in the following words.

“ Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That thirty-eight thousand dollars be, and the same is hereby, appropriated, to be added to the contingent fund of the House, to enable the House of Representatives to fulfil its pledges and obligations heretofore made; and the same shall be audited and settled on such vouchers as shall be produced by the Clerk of the House;”

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 33

Nays 3

On motion by Mr. Clark,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Buckalew, Chandler, Clark, Conness, Davis, Dixon, Doolittle, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Grimes, Hale, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Howe, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Pomeroy, Powell, Ramsey, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Van Winkle, Willey, Wilson, Wright.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Richardson, Saulsbury, Wade.

No further amendment being made to the bill, it was reported to the Senate, and the amendment was concurred in.

Ordered, That the amendment be engrossed, and the bill read a third time.

The said bill, as amended, was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the amendment.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. Lloyd, chief clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has agreed to the amendments of the Senate to the following bills and joint resolution of the House:

H. R. 94. An act for the relief of Isaac R. Diller;

H. R. 394. An act for the relief of Mary Scales Accardi;

H. R. 622. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company, in the District of Columbia,” approved July 1, 1864;

H. R. 99. Joint resolution reserving mineral lands from the operation of all acts passed at the present session, granting lands or extending the time of former grants: and

0108 108

It has passed the bill of the Senate (S. 363) to amend the charter of the Washington Gas-light Company.

The House has also passed the following bill and joint resolutions, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate:

H. R. 714. An act supplemental to the act entitled “An act to restrict the jurisdiction of the Court of Claims,” &c., passed July 4, 1864.

H. R. 150. Joint resolution to refer the claim of Selmar Seibert back to the Court of Claims.

H. R. 151. Joint resolution to refer the claim of George Ashley, administrator de bonis non of Samuel Holgate, deceased, back to the Court of Claims.

H. R. 152. Joint resolution to refer the claim of Danford Mott back to the Court of Claims.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners by the insurgents; and the question being on the motion of Mr. Wilson to recommit the resolution, with the proposed amendments, to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On the question to agree to the motion of Mr. Wilson,

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Harlan that the Senate adjourn,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 24

Nays 17

On motion by Mr. Wade,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Carlile, Clark, Collamer, Cowan, Doolittle, Farwell, Foster, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Saulsbury, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Wade, Willey, Wilson, Wright.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Chandler, Conness, Davis, Dixon, Foot, Hicks, Howard, Morgan, Morrill, Powell, Ramsey, Riddle, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Wilkinson.

Whereupon,

The Senate adjourned.

SATURDAY, January 28, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Navy, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 17th of June, 1864, a copy of the record of the proceedings and finding of a naval general court-martial in the case of C. W. Scofield, a naval contractor; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

The bill (H. R. 714) and the joint resolutions (H. R. 150, H. R. 151, and H. R. 152) yesterday received from the House of Representatives for concurrence were read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Wade presented a petition of members of the senate of the State of Ohio, praying that the rank and pay of hospital stewards of the United States army may be increased to that of second lieutenant of artillery, to take rank next after the graduates of the West Point Military Academy; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Anthony presented a petition of the officers of the 4th and 7th regiments of Rhode Island volunteer infantry, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

0109 109

Mr. Conness presented a petition of citizens of Petaluma, California, praying the passage of an act authorizing the city of Petaluma to enter at the proper land office all the lands within the corporate limits of said city, and which may belong to the United States, recognizing the present official plat of said city; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Howe presented a petition of citizens of the United States, praying the passage of a general bankrupt law.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Sprague presented a petition of citizens of Rhode Island, praying that a fog-signal may be placed on Nayatt Point, in Narragansett bay; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Sherman presented a petition of citizens of Ohio, praying such an amendment of the Constitution of the United States as Will more fully recognize the obligations of the Christian religion; which was referred to the Select Committee on Slavery and Freedmen.

Mr. Conness asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a hilt (S. 416) to grant the right of pre-emption to the trustees of the city of Petaluma, Sonoma county, California; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Nesmith asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 417) for the relief of Jean M. Lander, widow of F. W. Lander, deceased; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Nesmith presented the memorial of Jean M. Lander, widow of F. W. Lander, praying payment for services rendered by her late husband in making a reconnoissance of and report upon a railroad route from Puget sound to the Mississippi river; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Sprague asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 418) supplementary to an act entitled “An act to regulate the compensation of members of Congress,” approved August 16, 1856; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Finance, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Collamer asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a joint resolution (S. 105) respecting the publication of the papers of James Madison; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

On motion by Mr. Anthony,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (S. 412) for the relief of Benjamin Vreeland, surgeon in the navy of the United States; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said bill was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution submitted by Mr. Powell, the 16th instant, requesting the President to cause Brigadier General Paine to be arranged and tried upon certain charges of misconduct while in command at Paducah, Kentucky; and

0110 110

Ordered, That the resolution lie on the table.

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution submitted by Mr. Saulsbury, the 10th instant, directing the Secretary of War to communicate to the Senate the information called for by a resolution of the Senate of the 22d of December, in relation to volunteers called for in the State of Delaware at any time preceding the two last drafts; and

Ordered, That the resolution lie on the table.

The Senate resumed the consideration of the resolution submitted by Mr. Riddle, the 13th instant, calling for information as to the number of soldiers and sailors furnished by the loyal States under the proclamation of the President of July 18, 1864, with the amendment reported thereto from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia; and

The reported amendment having been amended on the motion of Mr. Collamer, was agreed to, and the resolution, as amended, was agreed to, as follows:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to inform the Senate what number of soldiers and sailors, stating each separately, the several States, Territories, and the District of Columbia have furnished the army and navy, under all the calls heretofore made, setting forth the number demanded, and the number furnished under each call, and the time for which the same were enlisted.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the following bills and joint resolution:

S. 363. An act to amend the charter of the Washington Gas-light Company;

H. R. 94. An act for the relief of Isaac R. Diller;

H. R. 394. An act for the relief of Mary Scales Accardi;

H. R. 622. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company, in the District of Columbia,” approved July 1, 1864;

H. R. 99. Joint resolution reserving mineral lands from the operation of all acts passed at the first session of the thirty-eighth Congress, granting lands or extending the time of former grants.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. Lloyd, chief clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed four enrolled bills (S. 363, H. R. 94, H. R. 394, and H. R. 622) and an enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 99,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they this day presented to the President of the United States the following enrolled bills:

H. R. 659. An act making appropriations for the service of the Post Office Department during the fiscal year ending the 30th of June, 1866;

H. R. 677. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to provide ways and means for the support of the government, and for other purposes,” approved June 30, 1864.

The Vice-President signed the four enrolled bills (S. 363, H. R. 94, H. R. 394, H. R. 622) and the enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 99) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution submitted by Mr. Davis, the 17th instant, for the appointment of a standing committee for the investigation of the transactions of the government, to consist of five members; and,

Pending debate thereon,

The Vice-President announced that the hour of one o'clock had arrived, and called up the special order of the day, which was the unfinished business of the Senate at its adjournment yesterday; and

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners 0111 111 by the insurgents; and the question being upon the motion of Mr. Wilson to recommit the resolution, with the proposed amendments, to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia,

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Wilkinson,

The Senate adjourned.

MONDAY, January 30, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 17th instant, information in relation to the expenses of maintaining the jail in the District of Columbia for the years 1863 and 1864; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Morgan presented a petition of women employed in the Treasury Department, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Pomeroy presented resolutions of the legislature of Kansas, in favor of placing an increased force in the hands of Major General Curtis, commanding that department, to enable him to give efficient protection to the frontier of that State, and the overland and Santa Fé routes; which were read.

Ordered, That they be referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Saulsbury presented the memorial of William Cornell Jewett, praying that immediate steps may be taken for the recognition of the southern confederacy.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Powell presented resolutions of the legislature of Kentucky, protesting against the proposed tax on leaf tobacco; which were read.

Ordered, That they be referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Howard presented a petition of citizens of Michigan, praying a grant of land to aid in the construction of a ship canal from Portage lake to Lake Superior; which was referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Howard presented resolutions of the legislature of Michigan, in favor of a grant of land to aid in the construction of a ship canal from Portage lake to Lake Superior; which were read.

Ordered, That they be referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

On motion by Mr. Nesmith,

Ordered, That the Hon. Mr. Harding have leave of absence from the Senate for the remainder of the session.

Mr. Sumner presented the petition of John P. Brown, secretary and dragoman of the United States legation at Constantinople, praying compensation for services in the capacity of chargé d'affaires ad interim; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Mr. Wilson presented a petition of officers of the 7th army corps, praying an increase of the pay of army officers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Doolittle presented a petition of officers in the volunteer service of the United States, praying an increase of pay; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Farwell presented a petition of shipmasters, merchants, and ship-owners of Maine, praying that steam-whistles may be placed upon Cape Elizabeth, Matinicus Rock, and Quoddy Head, for the protection of vessels approaching those points in thick and foggy weather; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 23d instant, 0112 112 information in relation to the report and evidence taken by a military commission of which General Speed J. Fry was president, appointed to inquire into the conduct of General Paine in and about Paducah, Kentucky; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 10th instant, a complete list of all the major and brigadier generals in the volunteer forces of the United States, showing where and how they were employed on the 1st day of January, 1865; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 141) reducing the duty on printing paper, unsized, used for books and newspapers exclusively, reported it with an amendment.

On motion by Mr. Foot,

Ordered, That the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of William Hughes.

On motion by Mr. Foot,

Ordered, That the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds be discharged from the further consideration of the report of the chief engineer of the Washington aqueduct, showing the condition of that work, and that it be referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Harris, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 184) to facilitate proceedings in admiralty and other judicial proceedings in the port of New York, and for other purposes, reported it with amendments.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the bill (S. 408) in addition to the several acts for enrolling and calling out the national forces, and for other purposes, reported it with an amendment.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 419) for the better organization of the pay department of the United States army; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Anthony submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Printing be instructed to inquire into the expediency of ordering a Congressional Directory to be compiled and furnished to Congress in the early part of each session.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they this day presented to the President of the United States the following enrolled bills and joint resolution:

S. 363. An act to amend the charter of the Washington Gas-light Company.

S. 384. An act to amend the act entitled “An act to amend and extend the charter of the Franklin Insurance Company,” approved March 2, 1838.

H. R. 94. An act for the relief of Isaac R. Diller.

H. R. 394. An act for the relief of Mary Scales Accardi.

H. R. 622. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company in the District of Columbia,” approved July 1, 1864.

H. R. 99. Joint resolution reserving mineral lands from the operation of all acts passed at the first session of the 38th Congress granting lands, or extending the time of former grants.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. Lloyd, chief clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has agreed to the resolution of the Senate for the appointment of a committee to join such committee as may be appointed by the House to ascertain and report a mode of examining 0113 113 the votes for President and Vice-President, and of notifying the persons chosen of their election; and

It has appointed Mr. Stevens, Mr. E. B. Washburne, Mr. Mallory, Mr. H. Winter Davis, and Mr. Cox, the committee on its part.

The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 574) for the relief of Alexander F. Pratt, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The bill (H. R. 574) last mentioned was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Claims.

On motion by Mr. Buckalew,

Ordered, That the Committee on Pensions be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of H. O. Read, executrix of the late Colonel Fanning, of the army, and that she have leave to withdraw her petition and papers.

The Senate resumed the consideration of the resolution submitted by Mr. Davis, the 17th instant, for the appointment of a standing committee for the investigation of the transactions of the government, to consist of five members; and the resolution having been modified by Mr. Davis, to read as follows:

Resolved, That the special rule of the Senate 34 be amended by adding thereto these words: A committee for the investigation of the transactions of the government in all its departments and offices, to consist of five members; which committee shall be appointed by the presiding officer of the Senate. Whenever there is a party political opposition to the executive administration of the government in the Senate, the chairman and majority of the committee shall be selected from the senators in such opposition; and said committee shall have power to continue its investigations during the recesses of the Senate, to send for persons and papers, and to adjourn from time to time and day to day;

On the question to agree to the resolution as modified,

Pending debate thereon,

The Vice-President announced that the hour of one o'clock had arrived, and called up the special order of the day, which was the unfinished business of the Senate at its last adjournment; and

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners by the insurgents; and the question being upon the motion of Mr. Wilson to recommit the resolution with the proposed amendments to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia,

After debate, and the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

TUESDAY, January 31, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Wade presented resolutions of the legislature of Ohio, remonstrating against the passage of any bankrupt law; which were read.

Ordered, That they lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Wade presented resolutions of the legislature of Ohio, in favor of the removal or reduction of the duty on imported paper; which were read.

Ordered, That they lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Clark presented the petition of Frank Pugsley, praying compensation for services as a private soldier from October 17, 1861, to October 24, 1862, being the time alleged to have elapsed between the date of his discharge from the service and his notification of the same; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Harlan presented a petition of citizens of Washington city, D. C., praying the repeal of all laws making it unlawful for county constables to arrest parties charged with crime against the United States; which was referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Harris presented a petition of ministers of the gospel, pastors of Churches, 8 0114 114 at Belvidere, New Jersey, and a petition of ministers of the gospel and pastors of churches at Perth Amboy, New Jersey, praying that ministers of the gospel may be exempted from military duty; which were referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Collamer presented the petition of Lemuel Abbott, praying payment of bounty claimed to be due his son, John J. Abbott, drummer of company I, 16th regiment Vermont volunteers; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Nesmith,

Ordered, That the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of Mrs. Aña M. Roblas y Robaldo, and that it be referred to the Committee on Claims.

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

Ordered, That the Committee on Foreign Relations be discharged from the further consideration of the memorial of B. A. Froiseth, and that it be referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Sumner, from the Committee on Foreign Relations, to whom was referred the message of the President of the United States transmitting copies of treaties between the United States and the King of the Belgians, in relation to the Scheldt dues, reported a bill (S. 420) to carry into execution a convention between the United States and Belgium for the extinction of the Scheldt dues; which was read and passed to a second reading.

Mr. Anthony, from the Committee on Printing, who were instructed by a resolution of the Senate to inquire into the expediency of ordering a Confessional Directory, to be compiled and furnished to Congress in the early part of each session, reported a joint resolution (S. 106) providing for the compilation of a Congressional Directory at each session; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and considered as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That the resolution be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time, by unanimous consent.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Dixon, from the Committee on the District of Columbia, to whom was referred the bill (S. 411) to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company in the District of Columbia,” reported it with amendments.

Mr. Dixon asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 421) to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Columbia Institution for the Instruction of the Deaf and Dumb and the Blind,” approved February 16, 1857; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

Mr. Anthony asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 422) relating to the mail service between New York and the Pacific coast; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a letter of the Treasurer of the United States, communicating, in obedience to law, a statement of receipts and expenditures for the service of the Post Office Department for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1864; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Sumner submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested, if in his opinion not incompatible with the public interests, to furnish to the Senate any information in his power concerning any recent personal communications with 0115 115 the rebel Jefferson Davis said to have been under executive sanction, and also copies of any correspondence relating thereto.

The Senate proceeded, by unanimous consent, to consider the said resolution.

On motion by Mr. Johnson to amend the resolution by striking out all after the word “Resolved,” and in lieu thereof inserting, That the President of the United States is requested, if he shall not deem it inconsistent with the public interest, to inform the Senate if any person, and if any, what person, has, with his authority or assent, been in Richmond to negotiate with the President of the States in rebellion, or with any other person or persons in authority under such States, in relation to a termination of the present war, or with a view to ascertain from such President or persons in authority on what terms or considerations, if any, he or they would be willing to have the said war terminated; and if so, also to inform the Senate what information he has obtained from such agent or person. And he is also requested to inform the Senate, if such person was in Richmond as aforesaid, whether he was authorized or permitted by the President to represent to the rebel authorities on what terms or conditions the President was willing to negotiate in relation to peace; and if so, what such terms and conditions were;

On motion by Mr. Hale,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the resolution be postponed to tomorrow, and that it be printed, with the proposed amendment.

Mr. Hale submitted the following resolution; which Was ordered to be printed.

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Navy be instructed to inform the Senate whether the argument of the judge advocate on the trial of Franklin W. Smith has been printed by order of the Navy Department or any officer of that branch of the service, and whether the same has been done at the expense of the treasury of the United States, how large an edition of the same has been published, and what use has been made of the copies thus published. Also, whether any commissioners, agents, or detectives have been employed by the said Navy Department, or any officers thereof, since January 1, 1864; if so, how many, what sum or sums have been paid them, what instructions were given to them, verbally or in writing, either by the Secretary of the Navy or the Assistant Secretary, and especially whether any instructions were given to said detectives or agents, or either of them, by said Secretary or Assistant Secretary, or by any one else for them or with the knowledge, advice, or consent of either of them, to inquire into the conduct or business transactions of any member of either house of Congress; and also how much expense has been incurred by such examinations, the particulars thereof, the fund from which they have been paid, and the law authorizing the same.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be requested to furnish the Senate with such information as be may possess relative to the barracks proposed to be erected in Washington for the accommodation of the clerks on detached service, an estimate of the probable cost of the same, and such other statements and suggestions as he may deem proper.

The Senate resumed the consideration of the resolution submitted by Mr. Davis, the 17th instant, for the appointment of a standing committee for the investigation of the transactions of the government, to consist of five members; and,

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Hale,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the resolution be postponed to, and made the special order of the day for, Thursday next, at one o'clock—two-thirds of the senators present agreeing thereto.

0116 116

On motion by Mr. Harlan,

Ordered, That the President of the Senate fill the vacancy in the Committee on Public Lands, occasioned by the absence of the honorable Mr. Harding.

A message from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

Mr. President: The President of the United States approved and signed, on the 30th instant, the following acts:

S. 363. An act to amend the charter of the Washington Gas-light Company.

S. 384. An act to amend the act entitled “An act to amend and extend the charter of the Franklin Insurance Company,” approved March 2, 1838.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a joint resolution (H. R. 126) declaring certain States not entitled to representation in the electoral college, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The Vice-President announced that the hour of one o'clock had arrived, and stated that the special order of the day for that hour was the bill (S. 359) to reimburse the State of Missouri for moneys expended for the United States, but that the unfinished business of the Senate at its adjournment yesterday, which was the joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners by the insurgents, had preference over the special order, and was the business before the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Henderson that the farther consideration of the unfinished business be postponed, and that the Senate proceed to the consideration of the special order of the day,

It was determined in the affirmative; and

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (S. 359) to reimburse the State of Missouri for moneys expended for the United States.

On motion by Mr. Wade that the further consideration of the bill be postponed to to-morrow, and that the Senate resume the consideration of the joint resolution (S. 97) advising retaliation for the cruel treatment of prisoners by the insurgents,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 20

Nays 18

On motion by Mr. Wade,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Dixon, Doolittle, Farwell, Foot, Foster, Harlan, Howard, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Morrill, Ramsey, Ten Eyck, Wade, Wilkinson, Wilson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Carlile, Davis, Hale, Henderson, Hendricks, Johnson, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Nesmith, Powell, Richardson, Saulsbury, Sprague, Sumner, Van Winkle, Willey, Wright.

So the motion was agreed to; and

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the said resolution; and,

After debate,

On the question to agree to the motion of Mr. Wilson to recommit the resolution, with the proposed amendments, to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 10

Nays 26

On motion by Mr. Hendricks,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

0117 117

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Carlile, Davis, Hendricks, Powell, Richardson, Riddle, Saulsbury, Sumner, Van Winkle, Wright.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Cowan, Dixon, Foster, Hale, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Howard, Howe, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Morgan, Morrill, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sherman, Ten Eyck, Wade, Wilkinson, Willey.

So the motion to recommit was not agreed to.

On motion by Mr. Wade to amend the resolution by striking out after the word “retaliation,” in the 7th line, the following words: “that in our opinion such retaliation ought to be inflicted upon the insurgent officers now in our hands, or hereafter to fall into our hands as prisoners; that. such officers ought to be subjected to like treatment practiced towards our officers or soldiers in the hands of the insurgents, in respect to quantity and quality of food, clothing, fuel, medicine, medical attendance, personal exposure, or other mode of dealing with them; that with a view to the same ends, the insurgent prisoners in our hands ought to be placed under the control and in the keeping of officers and men who have themselves been prisoners in the hands of the insurgents, and have thus acquired a knowledge of their mode of treating Union prisoners; that explicit instructions ought to be given to the forces having the charge of such insurgent prisoners, requiring them to carry out strictly and promptly the principles of this resolution in every case, until the President, having received satisfactory information of the abandonment by the insurgents of such barbarous practices, shall revoke or modify said instructions,” and in lieu thereof inserting: And that the executive and military authorities of the United States are hereby directed to retaliate upon the prisoners of the enemy in such manner, in conformity with the laws of nations, as shall be effective in deterring him from the perpetration in future of cruel and barbarous treatment of our soldiers:

On motion by Mr. Sumner to amend the proposed amendment by striking out, in the 3d line of the words proposed to be inserted, the word “of,” and inserting, and usages of war among civilized,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 27

Nays 13

On motion by Mr. Sumner,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Carlile, Cowan, Davis, Doolittle, Foot, Foster, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, McDougall, Morgan, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Powell, Richardson, Riddle, Saulsbury, Sherman, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Van Winkle, Willey, Wilson, Wright.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Dixon, Farwell, Hale, Howard, Howe, Ramsey, Trumbull, Wade, Wilkinson.

On motion by Mr. Van Winkle to further amend the amendment proposed by Mr. Wade, by striking out, in the 1st and 2d lines of the part proposed to be inserted, the words “that the executive and military authorities of the United States are,” and inserting the words he is,

It was determined in the affirmative.

On motion by Mr. Sumner to further amend the amendment of Mr. Wade by striking out, in the part proposed to be inserted, the words “in conformity with,” and inserting according to.

It was determined in the negative.

On the question to agree to the amendment of Mr. Wade, as amended,

It was determined in the affirmative.

0118 118

On motion by Mr. Wade to further amend the joint resolution by inserting, after the word “advise,” the words and require,

It was determined in the affirmative.

The resolution having been further amended on the motion of Mr. Sherman,

On motion by Mr. Hendricks to further amend the resolution by inserting, as an additional section, the following:

Sec. —. And be it further resolved, That in the judgment of Congress such proper measures ought to be taken as may be necessary to secure the earliest exchange of prisoners at all times during the continuance of the war,

It was determined in the affirmative.

On motion by Mr. Henderson to further amend the resolution by inserting, as an additional section, the following:

Sec. —. And be it further resolved, That the President be requested to procure an amendment to the existing carte? by which commissaries of prisoners may be authorized to visit our prisoners in the hands of the rebels to promote their comfort, examine into their condition, and to make such suggestions to him as may be deemed necessary to enforce humane treatment by the insurgents,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 24

Nays 16

On motion by Mr. Henderson,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Carlile, Collamer, Cowan, Davis, Doolittle, Foot, Foster, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Johnson, Lane of Kansas, McDougall, Morgan, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Powell, Riddle, Sumner, Ten Eyck, Van Winkle, Willey, Wilson, Wright.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Chandler, Clark, Conness, Dixon, Farwell, Hale, Harlan, Howard, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Morrill, Ramsey, Sherman, Trumbull, Wade, Wilkinson.

No further amendment being made to the joint resolution, it was reported to the Senate and the amendments were concurred in.

Ordered, That the resolution be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

The joint resolution (H. R. 126) declaring certain States not entitled to representation in the electoral college was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary; and

On motion by Mr. Hale,

The Senate adjourned.

WEDNESDAY, February 1, 1865. Link to Annals.

Mr. Ramsey presented a memorial of the legislature of Minnesota, in favor of an additional grant of lands to aid in the completion of the several lines of railroad and branches in that State mentioned in the act approved March 3, 1857. and for an extension of the time limited therein; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Public Lands and be printed.

Mr. Dixon presented the petition of Willard Gladding, praying an amendment of the Constitution of the United States forever prohibiting slavery.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Chandler presented resolutions of the legislature of Michigan, in favor of a grant of land in aid of the construction of a harbor at the mouth of the Ontonagon river, on the south shore of Lake Superior; which were read.

0119 119

Ordered, That they be referred to the Committee on Public Lands and be printed.

Mr. Chandler presented resolutions of the legislature of Michigan, in favor of a grant of land in aid of the construction of a ship canal from Portage lake to Lake Superior; which were read.

Ordered, That they be referred to the Committee on Public Lands and be printed.

Mr. Anthony presented a petition of citizens of Rhode Island, remonstrating against the passage of the bankrupt bill, now pending in the Senate.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

Mr. Sumner presented the petition of William Croswell, praying a pension; which was referred to the Committee on Pensions.

Mr. Morgan presented resolutions of the Chamber of Commerce of the State of New York, recommending an amendment of the Constitution of the United States to authorize the levying of duties on exports; which were referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Morgan presented a petition of officers of the 45th regiment colored troops, praying the passage of a law authorizing the appointment of a brevet second lieutenant, with the pay of that grade, for each company of colored troops; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Nesmith presented a memorial of the legislature of Oregon, in favor of the establishment of a branch mint at Portland, in that State; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Hale presented the memorial of Jones, Fowler, Kirtland & Co., praying additional compensation on their contract to furnish materials for the new dome of the Capitol; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

Mr. Sprague presented the memorial of S. W. Macy, collector of customs at Newport, Rhode Island, praying that a steam whistle may be placed on Castle Hill, at the east side of the entrance to that port; which was referred to the Committee on Commerce.

Mr. Sherman presented a memorial of senators and representatives of the legislature of Ohio, praying an increase of the salaries of the judges of the district courts of the United States; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Foster, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 640) providing for a district and a circuit court of the United States for the district of Nevada, and for other purposes, reported it with an amendment.

Mr. Foster, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 601) supplementary to an act entitled, “An act to enable the people of Nevada to form a constitution and State government, and for the admission of such State into the Union on an equal footing with the original States,” reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill, as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

On motion by Mr. Foster,

Resolved, That the bill be postponed indefinitely.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Foster, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the bill (S. 374) supplemental to an act entitled “An act to enable the people of Nevada to form a constitution and State government, and for the admission of such State into the Union on an equal footing with the original States,” reported it without amendment, and that it ought not to pass.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said bill as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

0120 120

On motion by Mr. Foster,

Resolved, That the bill be postponed indefinitely.

Mr. Wilson, from the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 142) tendering the thanks of Congress to Major General Philip H. Sheridan, and the officers and men under his command, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it pass to a third reading.

The said resolution was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (S. 418) supplementary to an act entitled “An act to regulate the compensation of members of Congress,” approved August 16, 1856, reported it without amendment.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 649) making appropriations for the legislative, executive, and judicial expenses of the government for the year ending June 30, 1866, reported it with amendments.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 705) for the relief of collectors and surveyors of customs in certain cases, reported it without amendment.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom the subject was referred, reported a bill (S. 423) supplementary to an act entitled “An act to provide a national currency, secured by a pledge of United States bonds, and to provide for the circulation and redemption thereof;” which was read and passed to a second reading.

Mr. Sherman presented papers relating to the subject-matter of the bill (S. 423) last mentioned; which were ordered to be printed.

Mr. Clark, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the report of the Court of Claims in favor of the claim of John Robb, submitted an adverse report (No. 110;) which was ordered to be printed.

Mr. Doolittle, from the Committee on Indian Affairs, to whom was recommitted the bill (H. R. 222) to extinguish the Indian title to lands in the Territory of Utah suitable for agricultural and mineral purposes, reported it without amendment.

Mr. Doolittle, from the Committee on Indian Affairs, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 38) directing the Secretary of the Interior to pay to the Chippewa, Ottawa, and Pottawatomie Indians, residing in Michigan, the sum of one hundred and ninety-two thousand eight hundred and fifty dollars, reported it with amendments, and submitted a report (No. 111;) which was ordered to be printed.

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

Ordered, That the Committee on Claims be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of Janes, Fowler, Kirtland & Co.

On motion by Mr. Pomeroy,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the joint resolution (S. 104) for the return of Arkansas to the Union; and

On motion by Mr. Pomeroy,

Ordered, That the resolution be referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Mr. Trumbull, from the Committee on the Judiciary, to whom was referred the joint resolution (H. R. 126) declaring certain States not entitled to representation in the electoral college, reported it with an amendment.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed the joint resolution 0121 121 of the Senate (S. 16) submitting to the legislatures of the several States a proposition to amend the Constitution of the United States.

Mr. Conness presented the credentials of the honorable William M. Stewart, elected a senator of the United States by the legislature of the State of Nevada; which were read.

Mr. Conness presented the credentials of the honorable James W. Nye, elected a senator of the United States by the legislature of the State of Nevada; which were read.

The honorable William M. Stewart and the honorable James W. Nye being in attendance,

Mr. Conness moved that the President of the Senate do now administer to them the oaths prescribed by law.

On motion by Mr. Davis that the further consideration of the motion of Mr. Conness be postponed to tomorrow,

It was determined in the negative; and

The motion of Mr. Conness was then agreed to.

Whereupon

The Vice-President administered to Mr. Stewart and Mr. Nye the oaths prescribed by law, and they took their seats in the Senate.

Mr. Foot submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to.

Resolved, That the Senate proceed to ascertain the classes in which the senators from the State of Nevada shall be inserted, in conformity with the resolution of the 14th of May, 1789, and as the Constitution requires.

Ordered, That the Secretary put into the ballot-box two papers of equal size, one of which shall be numbered one, and the other shall be numbered three. Each of the senators from the State of Nevada shall draw out one paper; and the senator who shall draw out the paper numbered one, shall be inserted in the class of senators whose term of service will expire the third day of March, 1869; and the senator who shall draw out the paper numbered three, shall be inserted in the class of senators whose term of service will expire the third day of March, 1867.

The Secretary having put into the ballot-box two papers, one of which was numbered one and the other numbered three, Mr. Stewart drew the paper numbered one, and is accordingly in the class of senators whose terms of service will expire on the 3d day of March, 1869; Mr. Nye drew the paper numbered three, and is accordingly in the class of senators whose terms of service will expire on the third day of March 1867.

The following message was received from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

Hon. H. Hamlin, President of the Senate:

I transmit herewith a communication from the Secretary of War, covering papers bearing on the arrest and imprisonment of Colonel Richard T. Jacobs, lieutenant governor of the State of Kentucky, and Colonel Frank Wolford, one of the presidential electors of that State, requested by resolution of the Senate, dated December 20, 1864.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

Washington, D. C., January 31, 1865.

The message was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of January 10, a list of officers of the regular army, with a statement how they were employed on the first of January, 1865; which was read.

0122 122

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 6th of January, correspondence of Major General McDowell, commanding the Pacific department, relating to a recent attempt to send arms and munitions of war out of that department into Mexico; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the joint resolution (S. 16) submitting to the legislatures of the several States a proposition to amend the Constitution of the United States.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled joint resolution, (S. 16,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled joint resolution (S. 16) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they this clay presented to the President of the United States the enrolled joint resolution (S. 16) submitting to the legislatures of the several States a proposition to amend the Constitution of the United States.

A message from the President of the United States, by Mr. Nicolay, his secretary:

Mr. President: The President of the United States thin day approved and signed a joint resolution (S. 16) submitting to the legislatures of the several States a proposition to amend the Constitution of the United States.

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the joint resolution (H. R. 126) declaring certain States not entitled to representation in the electoral college; and the amendment reported by the committee to the preamble of the resolution having been agreed to, and an amendment being proposed by Mr. Ten Eyck,

After debate, and the consideration of executive business,

The Senate adjourned.

THURSDAY, February 2, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a letter of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating a letter of the Commissioner of indian Affairs, recommending an appropriation to enable that department to provide for the usual distribution of medals to leading and influential Indian chiefs; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a letter of the Secretary of the Interior, communicating a letter of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, recommending an appropriation for supplies of goods to the Winnebago, Sioux, and Yancton Indians, to meet the exigencies of said tribes, occasioned by the loss of previous supplies on board the steamer “Welcome,” at St. Louis, on the 15th of July last; which was read.

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Howard presented five petitions of citizens of Michigan, praying a grant of land to aid in the construction of a railroad from Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Jonesville, Michigan, and that the time for building the Amboy, Lansing, and Traverse Bay railroad may be extended; which were referred to the Committee on Public Lands.

Mr. Lane, of Kansas, presented a petition of the chiefs and counsellors of the Wyandott tribe of Indians, praying to be relieved from the payment of taxes 0123 123 assessed upon their lands by the authorities of Kansas for the two years between the date of their patents and the organization of a State government over the territory where they reside; which was referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Sherman, from the Committee on Finance, to whom was referred the bill (S. 403) to amend the act entitled “An act to encourage immigration,” approved July 4, 1864, and the act entitled “An act to regulate the carriage of passengers in steamboats and other vessels,” approved March 3, 1855, and for other purposes, reported it with amendments.

Mr. Clark, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 161) for the relief of Josiah O. Armes, reported it without amendment, and submitted a report, (No. 112;) which was ordered to be printed.

Mr. Nesmith presented the credentials of the honorable George H. Williams, elected a senator by the legislature of the State of Oregon for the term of six years, commencing on the 4th day of March, A. D. 1865; which were read.

Mr. Pomeroy, from the Committee on Claims, to whom was referred the bill (S. 70) to enable the accounting officers of the treasury to settle the claim of the State of Kansas, reported it with an amendment, and submitted a report, (No. 113;) which was ordered to be printed.

On motion by Mr. Chandler,

Ordered, That the Committee on Commerce be discharged from the further consideration of the bill (S. 355) to amend an act to regulate the admeasurement of tonnage of ships and vessels of the United States, passed May 6, 1864.

Mr. Doolittle, from the Committee On Indian Affairs, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. 85) authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury to issue certain bonds to the Secretary of the Interior for feeding the refugee Indians, reported it with amendments.

Mr. Harlan, from the Committee on Public Lands, to whom was referred the bill (S. 295) making additional grant of lands to the State of Minnesota, in alternate sections, to aid in the construction of a railroad in said State, reported it with amendments.

Mr. Trumbull asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 424) to facilitate the collection of certain debts due the United States; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Howard asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 425) to revive for a certain time the provisions of the act of 1846, relative to suspended entries of public land; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, referred to the Committee on Public Lands, and ordered to be printed.

Mr. Foot submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved by the Senate, (the House of Representatives concurring,) That the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of the Senate, jointly with the Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds of the House be, and they are hereby, directed to inquire into the origin of the fire by which the Smithsonian Institution buildings, and the valuable deposits therein, were, on Tuesday, the 24th of January, in whole or in part destroyed, the approximate loss to the government and to private persons, the means necessary to preserve the remaining portions of said building and its contents from further, injury, and such other facts in connexion therewith as may be of public interest, and to report by bill or otherwise.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives in the foregoing resolution.

Mr. Anthony submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to.

0124 124

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be requested to furnish to the Senate copies of any correspondence that may have passed between officers of the department and the authorities of Rhode Island, relative to the quota of that State under the act for enrolling and calling out the national forces, and the acts in amendment thereto; also any reports and other papers in the department relating to the subject.

Mr. Wilson submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Secretary of War be directed to communicate to the Senate the record of the proceedings of the court before whom Colonel North, a commissioner from the State of New York, in relation to taking the votes of the soldiers from that State, was tried on charges of irregular and improper conduct in reference thereto.

Mr. Lane, of Kansas, submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the Committee on Territories be instructed to inquire as to the policy of organizing a territorial government for the country lying between Kansas and Texas, known as the Indian country, and to report by bill or otherwise.

Mr. Conness was, on his motion, excused from further service on the Select Committee on Slavery and Freedmen.

Ordered, That the Vice-President appoint a member to fill the vacancy in the said committee; and

The Vice-President appointed Mr. Nye.

The Vice-President appointed Mr. Stewart to fill the vacancy in the Committee on Public Lands, occasioned by the absence of Mr. Harding from the Senate.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 126) to construct a ship canal around the Falls of Niagara, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The President of the United States approved and signed, on the 28th of January, the following acts:

H. R. 659. An act making appropriations for the service of the Post Office Department during the fiscal year ending the 30th of June, 1866;

H. R. 677. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to provide ways and means for the support of the government, and for other purposes,” approved June 30th, 1864; and,

On the 30th of January, he approved and signed the following acts and joint resolution:

H. R. 94. An act for the relief of Isaac R. Diller.

H. R. 394. An act for the relief of Mary Scales Accardi.

H. R. 622. An act to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company in the District of Columbia,” approved July 1, 1864.

H. R. 99. Joint resolution reserving mineral lands from the operation of all acts passed at the first session of the thirty-eighth Congress granting lands or extending the time of former grants.

The House of Representatives has passed a bill (H. R. 728) to pay to each of the surviving soldiers of the Revolution, five in number, whose names are on the pension rolls, three hundred dollars annually, as a gratuity, in addition to the pension now paid them, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed an enrolled joint resolution, (H. R. 142,) I am directed to bring it to the Senate for the signature of its President.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the joint resolution (H. R. 142) tendering the thanks of Congress 0125 125 to Major General Philip H. Sheridan, and the officers and men under his command.

The Vice-President signed the enrolled joint resolution (H. R. 142) last reported to have been examined, and it was delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (H. R. 126) declaring certain States not entitled to representation in the electoral college; and the amendment proposed by Mr. Ten Eyck, to wit: Strike out in the preamble the word “Louisiana,” being under consideration,

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Wright that the Senate adjourn,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 16

Nays 25

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Chandler, Dixon, Doolittle, Grimes, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Howard, Howe, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sumner, Wright.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Cowan, Davis, Farwell, Foster, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Morrill, Nye, Powell, Sherman, Sprague, Stewart, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Wade, Wilkinson, Willey, Wilson.

After further debate,

On motion by Mr. Lane, of Indiana, that the further consideration of the resolution be postponed indefinitely,

On motion by Mr. Henderson that the Senate adjourn,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 15

Nays 21

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Collamer, Cowan, Dixon, Doolittle, Farwell, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Howard, Howe, Powell, Sprague, Sumner, Wilkinson.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Buckalew, Clark, Conness, Davis, Foster, Hale, Johnson, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Morrill, Nesmith, Nye, Sherman, Stewart, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Van Winkle, Wade, Willey, Wilson.

On the question to agree to the motion of Mr. Lane, of Indiana, that the further consideration of the resolution be postponed indefinitely,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 11

Nays 26

On motion by Mr. Lane, of Indiana,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Cowan, Doolittle, Farwell, Harlan, Harris, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Nesmith, Ten Eyck, Van Winkle, Willey.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Buckalew, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Davis, Dixon, Foster, Hale, Henderson, Howard, Johnson, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Morrill, Nye, Powell, Sherman, Sprague, Stewart, Sumner, Trumbull, Wade, Wilkinson, Wilson, Wright.

The question recurring upon the amendment of Mr. Ten Eyck,

On motion by Mr. Wilkinson,

The Senate adjourned.

FRIDAY, February 3, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 12th of January, a statement of the amount paid by that department for attorneys' and counsellors' fees for the fiscal year ending June 30, l864, and from that date to the first day of January, 1865; which was read.

Ordered, That it lie on the table.

The bill (H. R. 126) to construct a ship canal around the Falls of Niagara, was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The bill (H. R. 728) to pay to each of the surviving soldiers of the Revolution, five in number, whose names are on the pension rolls, three hundred dollars annually, as a gratuity, in addition to the pension now paid them, was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Pensions.

Mr. Grimes presented a petition of clerks employed in the navy yard at Washington, D. C., praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Finance.

Mr. Morgan presented the memorial of Edward McDonald Reynolds, praying that an investigation may be made into the causes of his dismissal from the service as captain in the marine corps; which was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.

Mr. Ramsey presented a petition of officers in the military service of the United States, praying an increase of compensation; which was referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Morrill presented a petition of citizens of Washington city, residents on Maryland avenue, east of the Capitol praying the improvement of said avenue between the Capitol and Camp Barry; which was referred to the Committee on the District of Columbia.

On motion by Mr. Collamer,

Ordered, That the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of citizens of Youngstown, Ohio, praying that the railroad from that place to Sharon, Pennsylvania, may be declared a mail route.

Mr. Collamer, from the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads, to whom were referred the following bills, reported them severally with amendments:

S. 407. Bill to authorize the establishment of ocean mail steamship service between the United States and China.

S. 413. Bill to establish a certain post road.

On motion by Mr. Pomeroy,

Ordered, That the Committee on Claims be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of William Harding.

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill ((S. 408) in addition to the several acts for enrolling and calling out the national forces, and for other purposes; and,

On motion by Mr. Wilson,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to tomorrow.

On motion by Mr. Powell,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in, Committee of the Whole, the bill (S. 392) supplementary to an act approved July 14, 1862, entitled “An act to establish certain post roads;” and,

On motion by Mr. Powell,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to, and 0127 127 made the special order of the day for Monday the 6th instant, at one o'clock-two-thirds of the senators present agreeing thereto.

On motion by Mr. Collamer,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (S. 413) to establish a certain post road; and,

On motion by Mr. Collamer,

Ordered, That the further consideration of the bill be postponed to, and made the special order of the day for, Monday the 6th instant, at one o'clock—two-thirds of the senators present agreeing thereto.

Mr. Morrill asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 426) to amend an act entitled “An act to amend section nine of the act approved July 17, 1862, entitled ‘An act to define the pay and emoluments of certain officers of the army, and for other purposes,’” approved April 9, 1864; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

On motion by Mr. Hale,

The Senate proceeded to consider the resolution submitted by him the 31st of January, calling for information in relation to the printing of the argument of the judge advocate on the trial of Franklin W. Smith, red in relation to the employment of agents or detectives by the Navy Department, or any officer thereof, since January 1, 1864; and

The resolution was agreed to.

Mr. Harlan submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Agriculture.

Resolved, That two thousand copies of the agricultural part of the census report for 1860 be printed for the use of the Commissioner of Agriculture.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed the following bills of the Senate:

S. 225. An act for the relief of certain friendly Indians of the Sioux Nation in Minnesota.

S. 234. An act for the relief of Louis Roberts; and

It has passed a bill (H. R. 322) to construct a ship canal for the passage of armed and naval vessels from the Mississippi river to Lake Michigan, and for other purposes; in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

The House of Representatives has agreed to the amendment of the Senate to the bill of the House (H. R. 644) to extend to certain persons in the employ of the government the benefits, of the Asylum for the Insane in the District of Columbia; and

It has agreed to the resolution of the Senate directing the Committees on Public Buildings and Grounds of the two houses jointly to inquire into the origin of the fire by which the Smithsonian Institution buildings were recently, in whole or in part, destroyed, and to perform other duties in reference thereto.

The House of Representatives has disagreed to the amendments of the Senate to the bill of the House (H. R. 621) making appropriations for the support of the Military Academy for the year ending thirtieth of June, 1866; it insists upon its disagreement to the said amendments, asks a conference on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon, and has appointed Mr. Blaine, Mr. Mallory, and Mr. Orth, managers at the same on its part.

It has also disagreed to the amendment of the Senate to the bill of the House (H. R. 709) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending thirtieth of June, 1865; it insists upon its disagreement to the said amendment, asks a conference on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon, and has appointed Mr. Stevens, Mr. Pendleton, and Mr. Morill, managers at the same on its part.

The Senate proceeded to consider its amendments to the bill (H. R. 621) 0128 128 making appropriations for the support of the Military Academy for the year ending thirtieth of June, 1866, disagreed to by the House of Representatives; and,

On motion by Mr. Sherman,

Resolved, That the Senate insist upon its amendments to the said bill, disagreed to by the House of Representatives, and agree to the conference asked by the House on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon.

Ordered, That the conferees on the part of the Senate be appointed by the Vice-President; and

The Vice-President appointed Mr. Howe, Mr. Harris, and Mr. Hendricks.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

The Senate proceeded to consider its amendment to the bill (H. R. 709) to supply deficiencies in the appropriations for the service of the fiscal year ending thirtieth of June, 1865, disagreed to by the House of Representatives; and

On motion by Mr. Sherman.

Resolved, That the Senate insist upon its amendment to the said bill, disagreed to by the House of Representatives, and agree to the conference asked by the House on the disagreeing votes of the two houses thereon.

Ordered, That the conferees on the part of the Senate be appointed by the Vice-President; and

The Vice-President appointed Mr. Clark, Mr. Grimes, and Mr. Riddle.

Ordered, That the Secretary notify the House of Representatives thereof.

The bill (H. R. 322) last received from the House of Representatives for concurrence was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The House of Representatives has passed the following bills, in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate.

H. R. 547. An act for the relief of Jean M. Lander, widow of F. W. Lander, deceased.

H. R. 571. An act for the relief of Jethro Bonney.

H. R. 624. An act to provide for the payment of the value of certain lands and improvements of private citizens appropriated by the United States for Indian reservations in the Territory of Washington.

H. R. 713. An act for the relief of Hull & Cozzens and John Naylor & Company.

On motion by Mr. Dixon,

The Senate proceeded to consider, as in Committee of the Whole, the bill (S. 411) to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company, in the District of Columbia;” and the amendments reported by the committee having been in part agreed to,

On the question to agree to the amendment reported to the second section of the bill,

On motion by Mr. Henderson to postpone the pending bill and all prior orders, and that the Senate proceed to the consideration of the bill (S. 359) to reimburse the State of Missouri for moneys expended for the United States.

Pending debate thereon,

The Vice-President announced that the hour of one o'clock had arrived, and called up the unfinished business of the Senate at its adjournment yesterday; and

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the joint resolution (H. R. 126) declaring certain States not entitled to representation in the electoral college; and the question being upon the amendment proposed by Mr. Ten Eyck to strike out, in the preamble to the resolution, the word “Louisiana,”

After debate,

0129 129

On the question to agree to the amendment of Mr. Ten Eyck,

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 15

Nays 22

On motion by Mr. Ten Eyck,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Cowan, Dixon, Doolittle, Farwell, Marian, Harris, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Ten Eyck, Van Winkle, Willey.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Brown, Buckalew, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Davis, Foster, Henderson, Hendricks, Howard, Johnson, Morgan, Morrill, Powell, Saulsbury, Sherman, Sprague, Sumner, Trumbull, Wade, Wilkinson, Wright.

On motion by Mr. Lane, of Kansas, to amend the resolution by striking out the preamble, as amended, in the following words:

“Whereas the inhabitants and local authorities of the States of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, and Tennessee rebelled against the government of the United States, and were in such state of rebellion on the 8th day of November, 1864, that no valid election for electors of President and Vice-President of the United States, according to the Constitution and laws thereof, was held therein on said day: Therefore,”

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 12

Nays 30

On motion by Mr. Lane, of Kansas,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Cowan, Doolittle, Harlan, Harris, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Ten Eyck, Van Winkle, Willey.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Brown, Buckalew, Chandler, Clark, Conness, Davis, Dixon, Farwell, Foster, Grimes, Hale, Henderson, Hendricks, Howard, Johnson, Morgan, Morrill, Nye, Powell, Ramsey, Saulsbury, Sherman, Sprague, Stewart, Sumner, Trumbull, Wade, Wilkinson, Wilson, Wright.

On motion by Mr. Collamer to amend the joint resolution by striking out the preamble thereof, and by striking out all after the enacting clause, and in lieu thereof inserting,

That the people of no State, the inhabitants whereof have been declared in a state of insurrection, by virtue of the fifth section of the act entitled “An act further to provide for the collection of duties on imports, and for other purposes,” approved July 13, 1861, shall be regarded as empowered to elect electors of President and Vice-President of the United States until said condition of insurrection shall cease, and be so declared by virtue of a law of the United States, or until they shall be represented in both houses of Congress; nor shall any vote cast by any such elector, elected by the votes of the inhabitants of any such State or the legislature thereof, be received or counted:

On motion by Mr. Harris to amend the amendment proposed by Mr. Collamer, by inserting before the word “that,” in the first line, the following preamble:

Whereas, in pursuance of an act of Congress approved on the 13 th of July, 1861, the President did, on the 16 th of August, 1861, declare the inhabitants of certain States, and among others the States of Tennessee and Louisiana, to be in a state of insurrection against the United States; and whereas, with a view to encourage the inhabitants of such States to resume their allegiance to the United States, and to reinaugurate loyal State governments, the President did, on the 8 th day of December, 1863, issue his proclamation, whereby it was declared, among other things, that in case a State government should be re-established 9 0130 130 in any of said States in the manner therein specified, such government should be recognized as the true government of the State; and whereas the loyal inhabitants of the States of Tennessee and Louisiana, invited so to do by the said last-mentioned proclamation, hare in good faith established State governments loyal to the United States, or attempted so to do; and whereas such loyal inhabitants, at the recent presidential election, hate chosen electors of President and Vice-President, who have, in pursuance of the requirements of the Constitution, cast their votes for President and Vice-President; and whereas doubts exist as to the validity of such election of presidential electors in the said States of Tennessee and Louisiana; and whereas it is well understood that the result of the presidential election could in no way be affected by the votes of the said States, whether the same shall be counted or not; and by striking out all after the word “that,” and in lieu thereof inserting, it is inexpedient to determine the question as to the ralidity of the election of electors in the said States of Tennessee and Louisiana, and that in counting the votes for President and Vice-President the result would be declared as it would stand if the votes of the said States were counted, and also as it would stand if the votes of said States were excluded, such result being the same in either case:

It was determined in the negative,

Yeas 12

Nays 31

On motion by Mr. Harris,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Cowan, Doolittle, Farwell, Harris, Howe, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Ten Eyck, Van Winkle, Willey.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Brown. Buckalew, Chandler, Clark, Collamer, Conness, Davis, Dixon, Foster, Grimes, Hale, Harlan, Henderson, Hendricks, Howard, Johnson, Morgan, Morrill, Nye, Powell, Ramsey, Saulsbury, Sherman, Sprague, Stewart, Sumner, Trumbull, Wade, Wilkinson, Wilson, Wright.

On the question to agree to the amendment proposed by Mr. Collamer,

After debate,

On motion by Mr. Cowan that the Senate adjourn,

It was determined in the affirmative,

Yeas 22

Nays 21

On motion by Mr. Trumbull,

The yeas and nays being desired by one-fifth of the senators present,

Those who voted in the affirmative are,

Messrs. Brown, Chandler, Collamer, Cowan, Davis, Dixon, Doolittle, Harlan, Harris, Henderson, Hendricks, Howard, Howe, Johnson, Nesmith, Pomeroy, Ramsey, Sprague, Stunner, Van Winkle, Wilkinson, Wright.

Those who voted in the negative are,

Messrs. Anthony, Buckalew, Clark, Conness, Farwell, Foster, Grimes, Hale, Lane of Indiana, Lane of Kansas, Morgan, Morrill, Nye, Powell, Sherman, Sprague, Stewart, Ten Eyck, Trumbull, Wade, Willey, Wilson.

Whereupon

The Senate adjourned.

SATURDAY, February 4, 1865. Link to Annals.

The Vice-President laid before the Senate a report of the Secretary of War, communicating, in compliance with a resolution of the Senate of the 31st of January, information in relation to the barracks proposed to be erected in Washington for the accommodation of clerks on detached service; which was read.

0131 131

Ordered, That it be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

The bills yesterday received from the House of Representatives for concurrence were read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That the bills H. R. 571 and H. R. 713 be referred to the Committee on Claims; that the bill H. R. 547 be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia; and that the bill H. R. 624 be referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. Nesmith presented a petition of citizens of Oregon, praying the establishment of a mail route from Umatilla City to Auburn, via Dealy Ranch, and a branch route to Independence City in that State, and the establishment of post offices at Umatilla, Birch Creek, Dealy Ranch, Riggsville, and Independence City; which was referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Nesmith presented a petition of citizens of Oregon, praying the establishment of a mail route from Auburn, via Pocahontas, Riggsville, and Dealy's Station, to Umatilla, with a branch from Dealy's Station to Granite Creek mines, in said State; which was referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Nesmith presented a petition of citizens of Oregon, praying the establishment of a mail route from Auburn to Umatilla City, in said State; which was referred to the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.

Mr. Pomeroy presented the petition of James G. Clarke, praying compensation for services as acting chargé d'affaires in Belgium from June 11, 1857, to September 3, 1858; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Mr. Johnson presented the petition of Joseph O'Neal, praying compensation for damages alleged to have been sustained by him in consequence of the occupancy of his farm by United States troops during and after the battle of “Falling Waters,” and for his crop taken and used by said troops; which was referred to the Committee on Claims.

On motion by Mr. Wade,

Ordered, That the Committee on Territories be discharged from the further consideration of resolutions of the legislature of Iowa, in favor of the construction of a military and wagon road from the west side of the Missouri river, at or near the mouth of the Niobrara river, in Nebraska Territory, to Gallatin, in Idaho Territory, and that it be referred to the Committee on Military Affairs and the Militia.

Mr. Grimes, from the Committee on Naval Affairs, to whom was referred the joint resolution (S. 94) authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to advance to Paul S. Forbes two hundred and fifty thousand dollars additional out of the sum to be paid him under his contract for building a steam screw sloop-of-war, reported it without amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution as in Committee of the Whole; and no amendment being made, it was reported to the Senate.

Ordered, That it be engrossed and read a third time.

The said resolution was read the third time.

Resolved, That it pass, and that the title thereof be as aforesaid.

Ordered, That the Secretary request the concurrence of the House of Representatives therein.

Mr. Trumbull submitted the following resolution for consideration:

Resolved, That the article of amendment, proposed by Congress, to be added to the Constitution of the United States respecting the extinction of slavery therein, having been inadvertently presented to the President for his approval, it is hereby declared that such approval was unnecessary to give effect to the action of Congress in proposing said amendment, inconsistent with the former practice in reference to all amendments to the Constitution heretofore adopted, 0132 132 and being inadvertently done; should not constitute a precedent for the future, and the Secretary is hereby instructed not to communicate the notice of the approval of said proposed amendment, by the President, to the House of Representatives.

Mr. Howe reported from the committee that they had examined and found duly enrolled the following bills:

S. 225. An act for the relief of certain friendly Indians of the Sioux nation, in Minnesota.

S. 234. An act for the relief of Louis Roberts.

H. R. 644. An act to extend to certain persons, in the employ of the government, the benefits of the Asylum for the Insane in the District of Columbia.

A message from the House of Representatives, by Mr. McPherson, its Clerk:

Mr. President: The Speaker of the House of Representatives having signed three enrolled bills, (S. 225, S. 234, and H. R. 644,) I am directed to bring them to the Senate for the signature of its President.

On motion by Mr. Hale,

Ordered, That the Committee on Territories be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of natives of Louisiana, of African descent; the petition of colored citizens of the United States; the petition of citizens of Louisiana, of African descent; and the memorial of national clubs of the city of New York and vicinity, praying that the elective franchise may be granted to the colored people of the United States.

On motion by Mr. Hale,

Ordered, That the Committee on Territories be discharged from the further consideration of two petitions of citizens of Virginia, praying the establishment of a territorial government in that State; and of a memorial of citizens of Virginia, remonstrating against the granting of the prayer of the last-mentioned petitions.

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

Ordered, That the Committee on Claims be discharged from the further consideration of the memorial of James J. Johnson, and of the petition of James F. Simmons.

On motion by Mr. Morrill,

Ordered, That the Committee on Claims be discharged from the further consideration of the bill (S. 311) for the relief of W. H. and C. S. Duncan; also the petition and papers of W. H. and C. S. Duncan.

Mr. Anthony, from the Committee on Printing, to whom was referred the motion to print the memorial of S. D. Carpenter, reported adversely thereon.

Mr. Anthony, from the Committee on Printing, to whom was referred the resolution to print additional copies of the correspondence on Mexican affairs, reported it with an amendment.

The Senate proceeded to consider the said resolution, and the reported amendment having been agreed to, the resolution as amended was agreed to as follows:

Resolved, That five hundred additional copies of the correspondence on Mexican affairs, heretofore ordered to be printed, be printed for the use of the Senate, and that two hundred copies be printed for the use of the Department of State.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 427) for the protection of passengers; which was read the first and second times by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Wilson asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a bill (S. 428) to prevent the sale of notes, scrip, bonds, or other evidence of debt issued by the rebel authorities; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent.

Ordered, That it lie on the table and be printed.

Mr. Grimes asked, and by unanimous consent obtained, leave to bring in a 0133 133 joint resolution (S. 107) providing for the further decoration of the Capitol; which was read the first and second times, by unanimous consent, and referred to the Committee on the Library.

Mr. Lane, of Kansas, submitted the following resolution; which was considered, by unanimous consent, and agreed to:

Resolved, That the Committee on Indian Affairs be instructed to inquire as to the expediency of organizing a territorial government for the country lying between Kansas and Texas, known as the Indian country—to report by bill or otherwise.

Mr. Sumner submitted the following resolution; which was read and ordered to be printed:

Whereas Congress, by a vote of two-thirds of both houses, has proposed an amendment to the Constitution prohibiting slavery throughout the United States, which, according to the existing requirement of the Constitution, will be valid to all intents and purposes as part of the Constitution when ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States; and whereas, in the present condition of the country, with certain States in arms against the national government, it becomes necessary to determine what number of States constitutes the three-fourths required by the Constitution; therefore,

Resolved by the Senate, (the House of Representatives concurring,) That the rule followed ascertaining the two-thirds of both houses proposing the amendment to the Constitution should be followed in ascertaining the three-fourths of the several States ratifying the amendment; that as, in the first case, the two-thirds are founded on the simple fact of representation in the two houses, so, in the second case, the three-fourths must be founded on the simple fact of representation in the government of the country, and the support thereof, and that any other rule establishes one basis for the proposition of the amendment and another for its ratification, placing one on a simple fact and the other on a claim of right, while it also recognizes the power of rebels in arms to interpose a veto upon the national government in one of its highest functions.

Resolved, That all acts, executive and legislative, in pursuance of the Constitution, and all treaties made under the authority of the United States, are valid to all intents and purposes throughout the United States, although certain rebel States fail to participate therein; and that the same rule is equally applicable to an amendment of the Constitution.

Resolved, That the amendment of the Constitution prohibiting slavery throughout the United States will be valid to all intents and purposes, as part of the Constitution, whenever ratified by three-fourths of the States de facto exercising the powers and prerogatives of the United States under the Constitution thereof.

Resolved, That any other rule, requiring the participation of the rebel States, while illogical and unreasonable, is dangerous in its consequences, inasmuch as all recent Presidential proclamations, including that of emancipation, also all recent acts of Congress, including those creating the national debt and establishing a national currency; and also all recent treaties, including the treaty with Great Britain for the extinction of the slave trade, have been made, enacted, or ratified respectively without any participation of the rebel States.

Resolved, That any other rule must tend to postpone the great day when the prohibition of slavery will be valid to all intents and purposes as part of the Constitution of the United States; but the rule herewith declared will assure the immediate ratification of the prohibition and the consummation of the national desires.

The Vice-President signed the three enrolled bills (S. 225, S. 234, and H. R. 644) last reported to have been examined, and they were delivered to the committee to be presented to the President of the United States.

0134 134

On motion by Mr. Dixon,

The Senate resumed, as in Committee of the Whole, the consideration of the bill (S. 411) to amend an act entitled “An act to incorporate the Metropolitan Railroad Company in the District of Columbia;” and the amendment reported from the committee to the seco