I fully indorse the views of the Secretary in this particular, which are set forth in his letter, transmitted herewith, and urge upon the Congress an early consideration of the subject.

In response to the resolution of the House of Representatives of April 20, 1910, relative to the recent tariff negotiations between the Government of the United States and foreign governments made necessary by the tariff act of August 5, 1909, I transmit herewith reports by the Secretary of State, with accompanying papers, and the Secretary of the Treasury.

It is my hope that all of the other railroad companies will take like action.

I therefore recommend that this latter provision be modified by providing that at least section 9 of the Senate amendments to the bill, which is the section authorizing the commission to suspend the going into effect of increases in rates until after due investigation, shall take effect immediately upon the passage of the act.

It is important that legislation that will enable this Government to carry out its obligations under the treaty be enacted by Congress during its present session.

I ask for the report of the Secretary of State the early and favorable consideration of Congress.

I transmit herewith, for the information of the Congress, the final report of the Spanish Treaty Claims Commission, dated May 2, 1910.

The primary duty with respect to frauds in the executive service falls upon the Executive to direct proper executive investigation, and upon the discovery of fraud and crime to direct judicial investigation for the purpose of recovering what is due the Government and of bringing to justice the guilty persons.

A congressional investigation at this time would embarrass the executive department in the continuance and completion of the investigation of the appraiser's and other offices of the customs service.

As soon as these investigations by the Executive and the grand jury are at an end I shall bring the fact to the knowledge of Congress.

I concur in these reasons, and I am of the opinion that such works as may be erected for the defense of the canal should be completed, occupied, and ready for operation at the time that the canal itself shall be completed and opened to the passage of vessels.