Ben Harrison: “I invite your attention to the papers herein referred to, showing the necessity for the proposed legislation, and ask…”

I transmit herewith the fifth special report of the Commissioner of Labor.

I believe we have reached an epoch in our development when we may successfully begin the work of carrying our share of the world's commerce upon the seas.

The law creates two new officers, whose aggregate compensation may be $12,000 per annum, without, it seems to me, a justifying necessity.

A serious question would be raised as to whether these officers were not at once legislated out of office and vacancies created.