The expenditure that such a policy would entail is incalculable, and the policy itself is, in my judgment, indefensible.

To the Senate:I return herewith without my approval the bill (S. 3270) \for the relief of the administratrix of the estate of George W. Lawrence.\

The bill is somewhat obscure, but I have, I think, correctly stated the legal effect of it.

Except as herein otherwise indicated, punishments shall not exceed the limits prescribed in the following table

Sergeants shall not if they object thereto be brought to trial before regimental, garrison, or summary courts-martial without the authority of the officer competent to order their trial by general court-martial

The court's action under this requirement in the case of sale or loss through neglect of clothing shall be limited to a confirmation of the charge made against the offender on his clothing account

I do not think it is competent for Congress to designate the person who shall fill an office created by law.

The punishment for desertion shall not exceed the following

The change of designation seems to have been intended to add dignity to the position.

The foregoing limitations will be subject to modification under the following conditions

Soldiers against whom charges may be preferred for trial by summary court shall not be confined in the guardhouse

Offenses not herein provided for remain punishable as authorized by the Articles of War and the custom of the service

It is probably true that the officer intended to be benefited is peculiarly deserving and has had remarkable success in the discharge of the duties of the office.

I transmit herewith a report of the Secretary of State and accompanying documents, in relation to the execution of letters rogatory in foreign countries.

To the Senate:I return to the Senate without my approval the bill (S. 4620) \to establish the Record and Pension Office of the War Department, and for other purposes.

I transmit herewith, in reply to the resolution of the Senate of the 9th instant, a report from the Secretary of State, accompanied by the papers relating to the commercial arrangement recently entered into with Brazil.

In the Post-Office Department, office of Assistant Attorney-General: Confidential clerk to the Assistant Attorney-General.

In the Department of the Treasury, in the Coast and Geodetic Survey: Clerk to act as confidential clerk and cashier to the disbursing officer.