and Printing, and for such of the archives and files of the Department as are not required for current use. While I have to recommend that appropriations be made for the continuation of work upon the public buildings now in progress under the supervision of this Department, in accordance with the estimates submitted therefor, the condition of the revenues is such as to make it unwise, in my judgment, to authorize the construction of new buildings, except in those cases where the demands of the public service seem to make them an absolute necessity. REPORTS OF OFFICERS. The reports of heads of bureaus and divisions, and the various tables referred to, are herewith transmitted as a part of this report. The Secretary takes pleasure in commending to Congress the industry and ability of the heads of bureaus and other officers of this Department, many of whom by long experience in the discharge of difficult duties have made their services of the greatest value to the Government. The manner in which their complicated duties have been performed, the faithful observance of the trust reposed in them in the receipt and disbursement of large sums of money, and the accuracy and skill with which it is accounted for, entitle them to his grateful acknowledgments. The Honorable JOHN SHERMAN, Secretary. THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. |