Evening Star Newspaper, August 28, 1895, Page 1

. THE EVENING 8ST. ano OR DAILY EXCEPT SUNDAY STAR BUILDINGS, 1101 Pennsylvanis Avenue, Cor. 11th Street, by The Evening Newspaper Oompany, 8, H. KAUFFMANN, Pree't. Few York Office, 49 Potter Building, The Evening Star is served to subscribers in the city by carriers, om thelr own account, at 10 cents per week, or 44 cents Ree month. ies at the y mail—anyw! PUBLISHED aT gounter 2 cents each. in the United States or Canada—postage prepald—s0 cents per mon Saturday Quintuple Sheet Star, $1 yer year, with WCBalered atthe Port Oflce at Wash D. ered a . Grp yrs ane aa mall subscriptions must ta Fixtes of advertising made Keataren soni etise: “The Evening Star No. 13,255 WASHINGTON, D. O., WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 1895-TWELVE PAGES STILL A MYSTERY|M®. BENEDICT’S PLAN) MR, JOSIAH QUINCY James Cochran Gives His Theory as to Judge Holt’s Will. TT WAS AMONG "SQUIRE TAIT'S PAPERS The Intimacy Between the Judge and the Justice. MR. SLOAN’S SUGGESTION —__+—___. What may eventually prove to be an ex- pianation of the mysterious receipt by the register of wills Monday last of an alleged will of the late Judge Advocate Joseph Holt, was given to a Star reporter this morning by James B. Cochran, a colored tinner of this city. Cochran believes that the will was placed in the custody of the late Capt. James A. Tait, who was for many years one of the District justices of the peace, to be delivered to the proper authorities by him upon the death of the testator. Tait and Judge Holt Were Intimate. Capt. Tait, or ‘Squire Tait, as ne was more commonly designated, for many years occupied an office on Pennsylvania avenue southeast between 2d and 3d streets, prac- ticaliy-in the immediate neighborhood of Judge Holt’s residence. Next door to "Squire Talt's office Cochran worked for several years, in the shop of a Mr. Marsh, and he frequently saw Judge Holt visit "Squire Tait's office. In fact, says Coch- ran, Judge Holt and the old ‘squire were quite intimate. Both were ardent Union men, Capt. Tait having comn:anded one of the first companies of District men, and they were of about the same age. Cochran says that while he has no personal knowl- edge of the fact, he is very positive that Judge Holt placed his will, the one re- ceived by Col. Wright Monday, in the cus- tody of ‘Squire Tait, and that the latter placed it in his office safe. One reason for so believing, explained Cochran, is the fact that in addition to the two men being good friends, "Squire Tait attended to practical- ly all of Judge Holt’s minor legal matters. ’Squire Tait’s Office Burned. About eight or nine years ago the office of ‘Squire Tait was destroyed by a fire, which is said to have originated in the shop of Mr. Marsh. Up to that. time, says Cochran, Mr. Marsh and the old ‘squire “were quite friendly, but believing that the fire was the result of Mr. Marsh’s negli- gence, in his alleged careless storing of joline, "Squire Tait’s friendship for Mr. larsh ceased from that time, the captain believing that Mr. Marsh was indirectly responsible for the loss of many of his valuable papers and records. ‘Squire Tait’s safe, says Cochran, withstood the fierce- ness of the flames to a comparatively great degree, but many of the papers and books it contained were badly charred and scorched, and, firmly convinced that the safe at the time of the fire contained Judge Holt's will, he so accounts for its burned condition. After the fire, when the safe was opened, Cochran thinks that the papers were overhauled, but that in some way Judge Holt’s will was overlooked or forgotten. Or, as he suggested, both "Squire Tait and Judge Holt may have he- come convinced that it had been destroyed by the fire. According to the signed mem- orandum found upon Judge Holt’s desk after his death, he stated that there was a will of his dated in 1886. Placing the time of the fire at nine years ago, the year would be 1886, and the belief that Judge Holt belfeved the will of 1873 to have been burned is greatly strengthened. The Will of 1586, ‘Squire Tait, if the will of 1886 was really made, was probably made aware of that fact by Judge Holt. So, then, if the old "squire subsequently discovered the one of 1873, he probably retained it, no doubt with Judge Holt’s permission, because of the distinguished autographs it bore. Or, sup- posing the will of 1873 to have been depos- ited In the safe, as Cochran believes, it is ire that both Judge Holt and ‘Squire ‘alt died believing that it had been de- stroyed in the fire. It is not at all improbable, however, that it was in the possession of ‘Squire Tait when Judge Holt died, August 1, 1894. But if it was, it is strange that its existence was not made known to the authorities by the old ‘squire before he died, about three months ago. But Capt. Taft was more than eighty years of age, and for several months previous to his death was in very feeble health, it 1s said. Therefore, because of his age and enfeebled condition, he may have forgotten its existence, or he may have remained silent because of his belief that tho will of 1886 would. shortly be |. found. Be that as it may, no one who was aware of the old ‘squire’s high character and integrity for a moment believes that he intentionally withheld the will from the proper authorities, Who Forwarded It to the Register? But if he died having it in his possession, who discovered it, and when and by whom was it forwarded to the register of wills? Upon ‘Squire Tait's death, it is satd that a daughter (Miss Julia Tait) took possession of all of her father's effects. Therefore it 1g but natural to assume, supposing the will of 1873 to then have been in her father’s effects, that Miss Tait discovered it, and, if that be so, that she matied it to the register of wills. But the will was mailed here last Saturday afternoon, and Miss Tait, a Star reporter was informed to- day, has been absent from the city for the last ten days. Of course, Miss Talt may have sent it here under cover to be mailed, but that explanation is hardly a reasonable one. Then, again, even if the old ‘squire did die with the will in his possession it is not wholly certain that it was found among his effects by his daughter. Indeed, she may have thrown it away, among a lot of what she imagined were valueless papers. It may then have caught the eye of some one who recognized the value of the docu- ment because of the autographs of the famous people it bore. This person may have realized later on that it was his or her duty to forward it to the authorities, and, not caring to disclose his or her iden- tity for one reason or another, sent it in an ancnymious manner. For many years, stated Cochran today, Gracie Wood, now Mrs. Wilson, a colored woman, was employed by ‘Squire Tait as both a messenger and clerk, and Cochran suggested that perhaps she could give the authorities valuable information about the will. Cochran's Character. Upon inquiry by a Star reporter at police headquarters it was learned that Cochran is a sober, industrious man, and enjoys an excelient reputation for veracity, By a Star reporter he was presented to Col. Wright, the register of wills, by whom he was closely questioned. Col. Wright will endeavor to investigate Cochran’s theory and see what, if anything, there Is in it. Beyond the information given him by hran, Col. Wright stated this afternoon he had none other as to the will of or, Indeed, of another. The will is now inclosed in a glass frame, and numer- ous people have called to examine It. The grandson of the late Squire fait told @ Star reporter that he saw his grand- father’s papers after his death, and many of them were scorched, having been burned in the fire that occurred next to his office on Pennsylvania avenue elght years ago. In examining his grandfather's papers he Tad not seen any document purporting to (Continued on Second Page.) € that 1S Two Points in His Utterances That Are Significant. He is Supposed to Influence the Presi- dent—He Presents No Substitute for Greenbacks. There are two things that give to the re- cent utterance of Mr. E. C. Benedict on the subjeet of the retirement of the greenbacks significance in politicat circles: @) Mr. Benedict stands very close to Mr. Cleveland. In fact, politicians believe that the New York financier has the ear of the President on the money question, and in a measure influences the President's judg- ment on that and kindred questions. Mr. Benedict is a very shrewd man, in tpuch with the sentiment of his locality and some- thing of a politician himself. There is an idea, therefore, that Mr. Benedict in his conversations with Mr. Cleveland has made an impression on him with regard to the greenbacks and Is now sounding public sentiment In his own name. If the public approves so much in the way of instruction will have been gathered for use next year. If the public disapproves no harm will have been done Mr. Cleveland. The interview is It is only a matter of as. sumption that Mr. Cleveland indorses it. @) If this policy is brought forward in Congress next winter, or, later, in the na- tional campaign, it will receive the sup- port of Senator Hill. Indeed, it is the Hill policy. The New York Senator has several limes advocated it in the Senate, and still insists, as Mr.Benedict does, that the green- backs are a menace to the health of the financial system. Here, then, will be both wings of the empire state democracy flap- ping together on one of the most important questions of the day. What Will Be a Substitute. But, it is suggested, the mere proposition to retire the greenbacks will not suffice in @ discussion of: the financial question in its entirety. If it is admitted that the green- backs are an evil that needs to be abated, there then follows the question as to what shall fill the place in the currency system that by their retirement would be made vacant. National bank notes? The south is oppcsed to the national banks already in existence, and would be certain to object to an increase in their number or an enlargement of thelr opportunity. The south would be a3 difficult to handle on that. proposition as she has proved to be on the silver proposition. State bank notes? The west knows nothing but by hearsay about state banks, and that hi her. She has risen into statehood since the of her public men. What, then, will offered, and ‘n what volume, to take the Place of the greenbacks? Must Be Specific. The President, it is contended, will have to be very specific in future on the money question when it comes tc legislation. The silver men feel very bitter toward him for his course In the matter of the repeal of the purcHasing clause of the Sherman act. When that proposition was brought fur- ward the silver men complained that it was incomplete. They wanted to know what was to take the place of the law the President wanted repealeg. The President's friends replied that that was another story. The duty of the hour, as they held, was to clear the decks for action. The purchasing clause of the Sherman act was characterized as an obstruction to sound legislation on the money question. Let that be disposed of, and thea something wise and beneficial would be done for silver. But nothing has followed the repeal of that act, and the silver men are very outspolen when they refer to the subject. And so they are call- ing for particulars now when Mr. Cleve- land's friend Benedict outlines what is ac- cepted as a probable new Cleveland move on the board. What is the full scheme? What Is to take the place of the old cur- rency handed down from the days of the war? —————_+2+—____ AGRICULTURAL STATIONS. What Dr. True Says of the Recent In- spection Trip. The recent trip of inspection of the ag- ricultural stations in the west and north- west, undertaken with a view to systema- tize methods and secure more hearty co- operation with the department, !s discussed in a review by Dr. A. C. True, the direc- tor of the experiment stations office. He Rays: “The low prices prevailing during the Past year or two, combined with the drout# and other causes that have reduced the yleld, have led farmers tn most of the regions for the first time to appreciate the necessity of more diversified agri- culture, instead of depending almost ex- clusively on the great staple crops like wheat. The siations have been making ex- periments with various crops, which have shown what can be best grown in different localities. More thorough investigation of soils is needed in order to show more def- Initely the effects of continuous cropping, and it is probable that results of great practical value in this line will be reached before Jong. “Throughout the west and northwest tr- rigation problems are attracting increased attention among farmers, and the govern- ment stations are making extended irri- gation inquiries. There are many ques- tions relating to the effect of irrigation on the soll and crops that remain to be solved, and some do not secure as much considera- tion as they deserve. Among these Is the matter of using large quantities of water contaiming alkali salts, where continued practice is very likely to seriously injure the vegetation.’ —-—______ Home From Sterra Leone. Robt. P. Pooley, United States consul at Sterra Leone, whose home fs In Brooklyn, N. Y¥., ts in the city on leave of absence, and visited the department today. Mr. Pooley {s the representative of large com- trercial interests at Sierra Leone, and has done much work since assuming his duties of consul, for the extension of American trade in that part of the world. Mr. Pooley has stood the climate of Sierra Leone very well, though he reports the conditions there as very unhealthful. Since going to Sierra Leone he has lost a son, who succumbed to a climatic ailment. Mr. Pooley remarked that even natives of Sterra Leone who have been accustomed to European ways of life cannot stand the climate of their former nomes so well as thos: who have never known civilization. ° Navy Department Appointments, Appointments in the Navy Derertment were made today as follows: Stenographer and typewriter, F. W. Sims of New Me: ; $000%per annum; to be assigned to bu | reau of steam engineering WW. A. Graaam of Virginfa, $720 per annum; bureau of navi- gation. Laborer, John Floyd of Virginta, $660 per annum; bureau of supplies and accounts. —_—__+-2+______ Government Receipts. National bank notes recelved for redemp- tion today, $184,675. Government receipts— From internal revenue, $289,203; customs, $540,907; miscellaneous, $21,526. He Gives His Views Upon Massa- chusetts and National Politics. GREEHALGE 10 BE AGAIN GOVERNOR Chances of the SBemccats for Next Year. Are Brightening. THE POSSIBLE NOMINEE Josiah Quincy of Boston is at the Raleigh. He does not think that the demo- crats are going to elect the governor of Massachusetts this year, but says they will make a good fisht for it. He will pre- side over the democratic state convention in October. “There does not appear to be any one who is exactly a candidate for the demo- cratic nomination,” he said. “It is under- stood that John E. Russetl, who can have the nomination for the third time, does not want it, and the newspapers are talking a great deal about Geo. Fred Williams. They seem to think that Williams will be the nemiree. The republicans will certainly re- nominate Greenhalge. It is a custom in Massachus2tts to give a man three terms or three nominations. Russell has been nominated twice, and would be nominated again if he did not object. Greenhalge has been twice governor, and ts entitled to the third nomination.” “What chance have the democrats of suc- cess?” was asked. Not Much Chance for the Democrats. I do not think there is much. Green- halge was elected by 60,000 majority the last time, and he Is lkely to be elected again. He is not popular with the A. P. A., snd if it were not for the third term cus- tom the republicans would probably ‘homi- nate some one else. In talking about Mas- Sachusctts politics the A. P. A. must be taken into consideration. They are very strong in the state, and seem to be grow- ing in strength. The republicans are dis- turbed on account of it, and there will Probably be a. fight in their convention against Greenhalge. Thosé in sympathy with the A. P. A. will probably advocate Morse’s nomination. Greenhalge will be nominated, however, I do not know whether the A. P. A.'s will carry their opposition far enough to vote against the republican ticket, but I do not think they Will. Greenhalge is quite a strong man side from that one thing, and there is no se trying ‘o disguise the fact that we pr oe @ very good prospect of beating Eim. “What do you think of the outlook in national politics?” 2 The National Outlook, “It has greatly improved for the demo- crats. At one time it looked unpromising, but the situation has improved so that we shall go into the campaign with at least an even chance of success. It will be the old fight over again, and I think we are likely to elect the next President.” “What do you think will be the tssue— tariff or silver?” “I ani very decidedly of the opinion that the tariff will not be an issue unless the re- publicans make it so, either by the nomina- tion of McKinley or by a radical course this winter in Congress and by an extreme declaration at their national convention, The democrats will not make the tariff question an issue. I am satisfied that. all differences as to the law of the last Con- ress will be laid aside and the democrats as a party will accept that law.’ They will not advocate any further revision for the Present. They will be satisfied to let the law stand for some time yet, and no propo- sition for change will be brought into this coming campaign by them. The republi- cans are in rather an awkward position in this matter. They have got to walk on a yery narrow line. Of course, they cannot afford to say that they have become con- verted and are satisfied with the demo- cratic legislation. Neither can they afford to propose to go back to McKinleyism. It will not be popular to propose a further disturbance of the business of the country, especially when business is beginning to prosper under this law. They will probably have to be satisfied with some general dec- laration of faith in the principles of pro- tection.” “Do you ‘think thore is a revival of bus- ines which gives promise of being last- ing?" Business Prospects Improving. “I do. There is a decided improvement.- Times are getting steadily better. Before the presidential campaign opens I think we shall be enjoying a period of great pros- perity. A proposition to change the tariff again could not be popular under such a condition. As it is now, the manufacturers do not want any change. ‘The cotton and woolen manufacturers of Massachusetts are very well®satisfied with the present law. From the protectionist point of view, the cotton manufacturers think they are well provided for, especially with cotton as low as it is. They have been very pros- perous, and have Leen paying dividends un- der the present law. The woolen manufac- turers grumbled at first, but they find that they are prosperous with free wool and a duty of 40 per cent on woolens, and are e: trely satisfied. They opposed free wool be- fore because they feared it would break up the combination, and they could not them- selves be protected if wool were free. As it is, they find that they have all the pro- tection they have any need for.” “Do you think, then, that the silver question will make the issue in the cam- paign?” Silver Not an Ivaue. “No. I think the two parties will occupy about the same position on this question, and it cannot be made an issue between them. Both parties will have to take a conservative positicn on that question. I have no idea that the free silver men can control the democratic convention. Both parties are goirg to have some tronble with the radical silver men, but I think it is greatly to our advantage that we are fight- ing It out now. By the time the convention meets we shall be in a position to get 10- gether and act harmoniously. The republi- cans are postponing the fight in their own ranks as long as possible, but they cannot avoid it, and it will be worse for them, ccming late. In the campaign, I think, they are going to be more annoyed by silver than we shall. Another thing that must not be overlooked is that the republicans are in the position of embarrassment tris winter. They have a great number of can- didates for the nomination, with all the consequent rivalries. They have Congress, with its responsibility and opportunity for error, and a presidential aspirant will pre- side over the House. Action or inaction will be equally dangerous, and any :onflict between Congress and the President might be injurious to them. They have internal confticts to avoid; they must be careful how they direct their attacks on the oppos- and take a risk in every issue Cleveland Net a Candidate. “Will Cleveland be a candidate again?” “f have no idea that he will. It Is not at all likely that he has such a thought. ‘The probability is that he wHI authorize a statement to that effect if the talk be- comes svfficiently serious to warrant his doing so. I do not know anything about it, except that this is my cpinion. I do not attach any importance to third-term talk.” “Whom do you think the democrats are Nkely to nominate?” “It is hard tc say. Whitney is very strong in the east. If the democrats should make the showing in New: York this fall that they seem likely to it would encourage the hopes of the democrats, and they would cal- culate on that state, and that would in- crease the prospect of Whitney’s nomina- tion. He is sald not to desire the nomina- tion, but if placed in the position of being relied on to carry New York for his party he would probably accept. Carlisle,.too, 1s very strong, both in the east and else- where. He would make a good candidate. There appears to be a very favorable senti- mert toward his nomination. As I have said, neither the tartff nor the silver ques- tion is likely to be the great issue of the campaign. The Great Issue of the Campaign. “I see Foraker says it will be the admin- istration. That, I think, is true. The issue will be the record of the administration throughout. The democrats could not switch off if they wanted to, and still have any hope of success, and the republicans have got to make thelf fight against the record of the administration. For this rea- son I think it desirable and probable that the presidential ncminee of the party will be some one closely associated with the administration, either some’ one of the cabinet or Mr. Whitney. Mr. Carlisle's nomination would well represent the admin- istration record in the campaign. Some of our people are urging that a New England candidate should be presented in the con- vention. Russell and Olney are both gpoken of. If a New England candidate were pre- sented it would probably be Olney. It Ee ee come. foreign question wou! ing him into ater prom- inence in this connection.” ie ig EX-CONSUL WALLER’S CASE. No Farther Action Until His State- ment in Received. It 1s probable that no further action will be taken in the case of ex-Consul Waller ‘ntil his statement, taken by Newton B. Eustis and Mr. Alexander, is received and exemined. It is stated that the case then will be a purély legal one, and that the action of the department will depend ‘pon the lawfulness of the French military court and its actions and the legal <tatus of Mr. Waller’s contehtions. The state- ment of Mr. Waller is also to be compared with the stat>ments of Congul Wetter at Tamatave, who has made a report to the department of facts gathered by aim in Madagascar. There is yet wanting a copy of the record of the arrest and conviction of Waller, which recor@ the French gov- ernment has promised. If %t is not ‘orth- coming, the case will that much stronger against the Frencg. government. If it has not arrived byithétime the ce- partment is prepared to:@efmpon the case as presented by Const] Wetter and Mr. Waller, the probabilities j@re that the French government will, be asked to re- lease the consul at once and_to indemnify him for the wrongs he has ‘ered. MR. LOWNDES SOMFIED. He Reads Hin Acceptaeg, of the Ge- bernatorial Nomination. Special Dispatch to The Evening Star. BALTIMORE, Md., August'28.—Mr, Lioya Lowndes, the republican ‘nominee for gov- ernor, was officially fotified of his nomina~ tion about 2 o'clock this afternoon. Mr. Lowndes-met the committeg at the Carroll- ton, and, after receiving its commun:ca- tlon, presented his letter gf acceptance: Mr. Lowndes’ letter was brief and declsive. In it he expressed his ‘hearty’ cohcordance with the platform adopted by the Cam- bridge convention. 'Thé idsues, he main- tained, were local. As régards financiat questions, the nominee expressed ‘himself as unaltérabfy in favor of a gold standard. Numbers of prominent republicans from all over the state were present, and so much activity and enthuslasm prevailed that the perfunctory ceremony of officially notifying the candidates was clothed with particular interest. Mr. Lowndes appeared in excellent spir- its, and expressed himself as confiient of success in November. He expressed great gratification at the attitude taken by che conservative element of the democratic party, which, ‘he believes, will be resolute in its opposition to the’ Gorman-Raisin ticket. Messrs. Harry. M. Clabaugh and Robert F. Graham, republican -eandidates for at- torney general and controller, respectively, were also notified of their nominations and accepted them. : The democratic state committee meets tomorrow, and a large attendance is jooked for. Senator Gorman is expected to be present, and plans for carrying on @ vig- orous campaign will be outlined. —_——_—_ SEAL CATCHING FORBIDDEN. A Recent British Order in Council Issued, LONDON, August 28.The Gazette yes- terday evening published the following or- der in councH: “From and after date of the present order and uritt} her majesty in council shall otherwise direct, the catching of seals by British ships ig hereby prohib- ited within such parts of the seas wheréto the seal fisheries act of October, 1894, ap- plies as comprised within. the following zones: The zone of ten marine mlles-on all Russian coasts of the Bering sea and North Pacific ocean, and the zone of thirty marine miles round the Kormandorsky Islands and Tulenew and Robbin Island, - “The powers under the fisheries act of a commissioned naval officer on full pay may be exercised in relation to a British ship and equipment, crew and gertificate there- of, by the captain or other officer in com- mand of any war véssel of:the Emperor of Russia, but subject to certain limitations and exceptions.” ——-__— AN “UNIMPORTANT’ AFFAIR.” Paris Figare on Ex-Consul Waller's Cane. * PARIS, August 28--The Figaro this morning declares that the. Waller affafr is unimportant, that Waller was only an American consul through atcident, that he never did well, and that his consular col- leagues, in addition to thé matives, shunned lim. The Figaro adds: jothing serious can résult‘from the ne- gotiations regarding his ¢ondémnation, for he Is not worth the trouble. The Castine incident is more serious; but any formal complaints should come from France, and not from America, which is entirely in the wrong. Moreover, the American news- paper campaign in this connection is noth- ing but an engine of election warfare, with- out importance for us, apd aimed much more against President’ Cleveland and Mr. ustis.’” So Gre Richmond Labor Mega to Confer. Spectal Dispatch to The Evening, Star. RICHMOND, Va., Augtist 28—A confer- ence of the labor people: of this city will be held tonight to consider the advisabil- ity of making nominatiogs for the legisla- ture this fall. There will be present three representatives from eachglabor union in the city and three fromi fhe trades coun- ceils. It is rumored that*’a full citizens’ ticket will be put up andjthe labor people will take no-part in’ the ary.to be held October 8. he result the meeting is looked forward to with fmterest. Smallpox in Virginia. Spectal Dispatch to The Evening Star. RICHMOND, Va., August 28.—A special from Marlon, Va, says: Smallpox has broken out in the family ‘cf Professor Geo. W. Miles of Radford. Mrs. Morgan, who came to Marion after a visit to Professor Miles’ family, Is quarantined at her home on Water street. DISTRICT TAXATION Features of the Annual Report of Collector Davis. OVER FOUR MILLIONS COLLECTED An Increased Force is Necessary in the Office. OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS The annual report of the collector of taxes was submitted to the Commissioners several days ago, and made public today. During the year he collected from all sources $4,042,742.76. This was divided as follows: From realty tax, $2,592,142.77; per- sonal tax, $166,336.50; penalties, $51,198.45; miscellaneous, $488,349.32; from the water fund, rents, $325,800. water main tax, $4,300.58; interest, $1,382.15; special fund, $28,773.52, and sundry deposits, $354,459.10. Continuing his report Collector Davis says: : “In accordance with act of Congress, ap- Proved August 14, 1894, creating a board of assessors, &c., collections on account of realty tax for the year ending June 30, 1895, were received in one instead of two payments, as heretofore. In consequence, the receipts for the month of May were the largest In the histcry of the office. To re- ceive and account for this large sum taxed to the utmost the capacity of the office, ond nctwithstanding the inadequacy of the force the work was accomplished without fric- tion and in a correct and satisfactory man- rer, but in order to do this, It was neces- sary for the entire force of the office to work before and after hours for several successive weeks. A Good Policy to Continue. “Experience has taught vs that it would be an advantage to continue this method of payments, as this praccical illustration has fully demonstrated that much of the time required for the duplication of collec- tions can be utilized for other office work, and that errors incident to two payments in one year can be materially reduced. I therefore renew my recommendation that taxes be recelved In one payment. “The work of the office is steadily and rapidly increasing, not only are collections increasing in amount, but sources from which deposits are received are multiplying by division of oid, and the addition of new accounts. No increase in the force has been allowed to meet the requirements imposed by the additional work. In July, 1888, an additional clerk was allowed. Since that time the receipts of the office have nearly @oubled, and the work of the office has more than doubled, and yet Congress turns a deaf ear to our numerous requests for additional clerks. In all my annual reports attention been. called to this <defi- clency, I have explained and urged the adoption of my recommendations for an Increése ‘of force, ed the committees of. Congress have appeared to acquiesce in my views as to the needs of the office, but for some reason the additional force has not been granted. I again carnestly recommend that a deputy collector te al- owed this-office. I consider this of para- mount importance. I believe the addition of this office to our efficient force the first and most important step toward perfecting the proper organjzation and increasing the efficiency of the office. The Collector Feels Discouraged. “It is very discouraging, to say the least, that a recommendation, dictated by exper- fence and a thorough knowledge of the wants of the office, entirely reasonable and consistent, should receive so little con- sideration. I have also asked for an as- sistant cashier, two additional clerks, and a horse and wagon. The position of cash- ler is not only one of great responsibility, but it requires unremitting attention, the duties are very exacting, and during the busy months it is impossible for one man to attend promptly to the requirements of the office. The appointment of an assistant to share the responsibilities and duties would greatly facilitate the business of the office, and would be of great advantage to the public, who demand and should have prompt service. The applintment of two additional clerks is necessary to complete the proper working force of the office and to place it upon a business basis, so that the public will not be compelled te endure a long and tedious wait, in the transaction of business. “In order to promptly make collection of checks received in payment of taxes, etc., in time for deposit in United States treas- ury, as required by law, it is necessary that we use a horse and wagon. Up to the pres- ent time we have been able to secure the use of the horse and buggy used by the license division of the assessor's office dur- ing the busy months, but this we find is a sericus inconvenience to that office, besides the rapid increase of business renders the continuous use of a horse and wagon neces- sary, not only for the collection of checks, but to attend to other necessary outside business. The bill prepared in this office, which received your approval after exam- ination by the district attorney in relation to tax sales, known as H. R. 3293, should again be brought to the attention of Con- gress. I submit herewith a copy of said bill, and suggest amendments which I think will meet the objections urged when the bill was last before Congress. Delinquent Tax Sale Law Needed. “Tnere is no measure affecting the in- terests of the District of more importance than a comprehensive law for the sale of property for delinquent taxes. As has been repeatedly pointed out the law. under which we jell property is defective, there is hard- ly a provision of the present law which has not been the subject of litigation, and as a rule at the expense of the District. I am at a loss to understand why a law vulner- able at ail points is allowed to remain un- repealed, and that an expense should be annually incurred to enforce it with no cer- tainty of conveying any rights or privi- leges sought to be conveyed under its pro- visions. Much time and thought was given to the preparation of the bill ubove referred to, and I think its adoption would cure many of the evils of the law now in force, snd thus prevent much of the Iitigation that the District is called upon to defend. “I earnestly beg that you will urge the passage of this bill during. rext Congress. Far better for the interests of the District if we had no tax sale taw at all. I can see no benefit to be derived from the present law, only loss, litigation and vexation. It takes much time and labor to prepare the list for tax sale, and after all is done, and the list duly advertised, the sale scarcely realizes sufficient to pay expenses of sale, and as the result of each sale, thousands of dollars in taxes honestly due to. the Dis- trict are sancelled and thus lost to the revenues. “I hope that the importance of this mat- ter will be fully impressed upon Congress, and that the present ursatisfactory condi- tion of our tax sale laws will not be allowed to continue.” —_——__. To Manufacture the Lee Rifle.» The Navy Department has completed a contract with J. P. Lee for the right to manufacture the Lee rifle, which has been adopted as the regulation small arm of the navy. Lee js to receive $20,000, to be paid when he executes 2 bond indemnifying the overnment from all losses by reason of possible infringements. The rifles may be manufactured by the Navy Depart- ment, “but it is probable that they will be manufactured by private concerns under contract, TWO CENTS. Se proof of the pudding is fn te eating. Yesterdar’s Har contained 32 cofumns of advertisements, made up of 589 separate announce: ments. These advertisers Bought pubficity-nof merefp Space, CHINESE = CIVIL A Recent Imperial Decres Concerning Appointments to Office. Panishment Provided for Improperly Recommen = Applicants . for Place. ‘The Department of State is in receipt of a dispatch from Mr. Denby, minister at Pekin, of July 10 last, transmitting a de- cree of the Chinese government, issued on the 5th, conzerning appointments to office. The decree states that the first of essen- tials in the administration of government ig the selection of good men for office, and cortinues: “Previous decrees have been promulgated calling upon cur servants of state in the capital and in the provinces to bring for- ward and recommend men of talent for of- fice, and these have, in their order, been selected for government employ. At the present time there are many difficult and pérplexing questions to be met, and, in view of this fact, it is all the more neces- sary that men of unquestionable ability and talent be selected, so that we may avail ourselves of their services. Let all the presidents and vice presidents of the various boards, as well as the Tartar gen- erals, viceroys and governors of the prov- inces, when they have knowledge of per- sons of clear understapdirg, excelling in wisdom and ability and thoroughly compe- tent to perform the functions assigned to them, report to us in special memorials with recommendation for appointment to office. The memorials must specify the true qualifications of each person recom- mended. Men of remarkable ingenuity and extraordinary talents, such as astronomers, geographers, mathematicians, scientists and manufacturers, those who have been ex- amined and their capabilities tested and verified, not persons who are merely give. to empty tasks, are to be recommended to us, the memorialists giving an account of each in his own particular profession, so as to enable us to avail ourselves of their special requirements.” The decree also says the high authorities “should give careful consideration in ex- amining into the merits of those they rec- ommend for office. Should it appear that they are careless and perform their duties perfunctorily, or just as far as they feel obliged to, presenting false reports—of mere words—representing the interests of favored persons frcm selfish motives, and are unduly lenfent and influenced by their private feelings, wo will certainly hold the guilty responsible, punishment being spe- clally provided by statute for such an of- fense, that of improperty recommending Persons for office.” —E—EEE THE TRIPLICATE INVOICE. A Circular to Consuls From the State Department. Assistamt Secretary of State Rockhill has issued a circular revoking the order of July 22, 1895, amending paragraph 665 of the consular yegulations, “at the request of the Treasury Department.” The circular says: ‘All consula are instructed to send the triplicate Involce to thé collector of" customs at the port in which the mer- chandise is to be entered, not to the place of final destination of the merchandise, which may not be a port of entry. Where a quadruplicate Invoice is issued under the immediate transpcrtation act, the trip- cate copy should be sent to the collector at the final port of entry and the quadrup- licate given ‘Yo the shipper to be used at the port of arrival where entry is made for immediate transportation in bond.” The order of July 22 instructs the consul to give one ccpy of the invoice to the con- signer, two to the steamship company and to keep one himself. The copy of the con- signor was then sent to the consignee. Where the gocds were consigned for im- mediate transportation beyond the port of entry this often caustd delay in awaiting the return of the Invoice from the con- signee at the port of destination. Under the circular two copies of the invoice will go te the consignor, one to the steamship company and one to the consul. The con- signor can thus send a copy both to the con- signee at the port of arrival and at the port of destination, and thus avoid ur- usual delay. —___-«+__ ADULTERATED GINSENG. What Has Been Discovered Buyers in New Yor! The attention of the Department of Ag- riculture has recently been called by certain ginseng dealers in New York city to the al- leged adulteration of American ginseng with an inferior grade imported from Japan for fraudulent purposes, Ginseng root is a Chinese panacea, and is used In enormous quantities Jn the medical practice of that country. The export from the United States amounts to about $1,000,000 annually. The supposed fraud has been brought to light through expert ginseng buyers in New York, who have been sent to the United States as representatives and_pur- chasing agents of Hongkong firms. These Chinese experts declare that they have de- tected in certain lots offered to them this year a large percentage of Japanese root, which can be laid down in New York for thirty cents per pound, and they-are inclin- ed to view with distrust the whole Ameri- can product. They represent that if this frauduient importation and sale of the Jap- anese root continues, the American ginseng industry will be seriously injured, if not ruined. It is reported that the spurious product is shipped frcm ports of entry to the interior and there sold in small lots to unsuspecting dealers, who, in turn, put it in with larger consignments of the genuine American article. —_—_-e—____ CRUELTY AND DRUNKENNESS. by Expert kk. Mra. Adclaide Kelpy Charges Both as Grounds fer Divorce. A petition for divorce was filed today hy Adelaide Kelpy, in whicit she charges her husband, Anthony Kelpy, with cruelty and habitual drunkenness. They were married here January 10, 1881, her maiden name being Carter. She also prays for alimony, the custody of their two childien and tor permission to resume her maiden name. ——_— Pensions Allowed. District of Columbia—Original widow, Laura V. Mitchell, Washington; Mexican war survivor, increase, Samuel Washington, Maryland — Original, Charles McCarty, Rockville, Montgomery; renewal, Solomon Richardson, Newark, Worcester; reissue, William E, Ancerson, Baltimore, Isalti- more; reissue, John Broo! Baltimore, Baltimore; criginal widow, Nancy Jackson, Baltimore, Baltimore. Virginia—Mexican war survivor, Increase, Edward Williams, Ionia, Dinwiddie; orig- inal, John Cissell, Norfolk, Norfolk; orig- Cc. Rei, inal, Pierre Detroit, Phcebus, Elizabeth City; original, William Watts, Eastviile, Northampton; original widow's, etc., min- , Loudoun. ors of George Jordan, Philomon Mr. Eckels Remembered by His Clerks Mr. Eckels, ecntroller of currency, sailed today for Europe, accompanied by his wife. As a surprise to him and a testimonial of their 1egard the officials and clerks of the controller of currency office telegraphed to a New York florist and had their state rooms handsomely decorated with ficwers, besides having a@ fine floral piece sent Mrs. Eckels. SERVICE/QUAY’S BIG VICTORY Beat His Opponents et Harrisburg by Thirty Votes. PENNSYLVANIA REPUBLICANS CONVENE Indications of a Reconciliation of the Factions. EFFECT OF THE RESULT Special From a Staff Correspondent. : HARRISBURG, Pa., August 28—‘Well, it’s all over but the explanations,” re- marked one of the antl-Quay men at mid- night, after the caucus of the Quay peo- ple, at which the Senator rallied 159 dele- gates, a majority of fourteen. He was thinking of the time the combine leaders would have in explsining how the opposl- tion managed to rally so strongly in the face of the sweeping claims made by the Quay men. It was a characteristically bold move of Senator Quay to hold that caucus. If fe had failed to show a majority a stampede of the weak-kneed delegates might have ensued. He took the step fearlessly, and his very courage attracted support. As socn as the caucus assembled Senator Quay called for a demonstration of the strength of his following. The list of dele- gates to the convention was read, and as it proceeded each man who proposed to vote for the Senator announced that fact. The announcements, especially in vases considered doubtful up to thet time, were greeted with cheers, At the erd of the roll cal: it was found that Senator Quay had the pledges of 159 delegates, including the six contestants. Substracting the contestants would leave him a clear majority of eight, 145 being necessary to a choice. The report of the success of the caucus spread over the town like a flash and the Quay shouters were fairly frantic with de- light. The bands were called out, and un- lil far after midnight paraded the streets at the head of howling mobs of delighted Quay supporters. One party carried an il- luminated banner representing Senator Quay in the role of a butcher slaughterihg a@ fat hog. The Anti-Quay People. In the meantime the combine people held @ caucus, but did not call the roll, for the Treason, as it was supposed, that they could not show a majority. Up to this morning the combine still maintained that they would have a majority in the convention, but they could not give any facts or fig- ures to support the claim. After the caucus the situation was this: Senator Quay seemed to have-the seape, but the combine was in possession of Con- vention Hall. & delegation of Pittsburgers, tor the purpose, was camping out if House with instructions to resist-by any invasion of the premises. Senator Quay wished to avoid holding a separate convention in another place the hall selected for that purpose, but knew that serious trouble would follow if his men attempted to force their way into the place today. He had a squad of men from the down-town wards of Philadelphia to handle Mr. Chris. Magee’s Pittsbi but a sincere effort was made to avo! conflict. Agrecing to Compromise. During the night there were many ro- mors of compromise, which finally, toward morning, assumed definite form. An over- ture for a compromise was made by the combine people. It was forced by the friends of the cand‘date for state treasurer, Mr. Hayward, who declared that he was Ukely to be sacrificed under existing con- ditions, He had supporters in both camps and they insisted upon an agreement for his sake. About 4 o'clock this morning a commit- tee, consisting of Messrs. Cooper, Lyon and Stone, for Senator Quay, and Messrs. Graham, Flynn and Yardley, for the com- Dine, came together to agree upon a treaty of peace. It was determined that tickets of ad- mission to Convention Hall should be is- sued to the delegates on Chairman Gilke- son's roll, and that the two contesting dele- gations should be admitted, each man to have one-half a vote. One hundred sup- porters from each side should be admitted to the galleries. These and the newspaper corresponderts were to make up the total attendance. It was determined that the contest for temporary chairman, the crucial test of the convention, should be fought out in open session. Gov. Hastings was to be perma- nent chairman. It was also tacitly agreed that if Senator Quay should win, he would rot take revenge upon the governor’s can- didates for the superior judgeship, but would let their nominations stand. ‘This was the condition of affairs when 9 o'clock arrived today. The Quay men were sure of victory and the combine people were very quiet. ‘The terms of the compromise were pretty generally understood by the rank and file of the democrats and visitors by 9 o'clock and produced a marked effect. The Quay adherents regarded the battle as all won and ceased shouting and parading. Harmony Follows Discord. The most noticeable effect, however, was the manifestation, of reconciliation on all sides. Everybody seemed to realize the necessity of putting an end as quickly as possible to the bitter hostility which had existed among the two factions of the re- publican party. There was a cessation of hostile talk and the Quay and combine men began to fraternize on the street—a thing which had i.ot been done up to that time. The combine leaders ¢ontinued to claim that they would yet win in the struggle over the temporary organization, but the assurances did not seem to have much ef- fect toward reviving the drooping spirits of their followers, who appeared to have given up all hope and to be anxious to put an end to factional strife. ‘As the merning wore along toward the time for the assembling of the convention all sorts of rumors were abroad on the streets of changes in the compromise con- ditions and bolting delegations. The heelers and shouters were very much disappointed that only 100 of their number of each side were to be admitted to the hall. They gathered in squads on the state house Jawn, in front of the Opera House, ready to take a hand in any undertaking they might be called upon to perform, The newspaper men were the first admitted to the hall, and they found the place still under guard of Mr. Magee’s Pittsburg henchmen, selected for their muscular prowess. In the Ha! Gov. Hastings appeared on the platform before the crowd was admitted. Magee's Pittsburgers were the only men in the body of the hall, and as he stepped up on the stage they heartily applauded him. Soon after this the night guard was dismissed, in accordance with the terms of their com- promise, and the men who were agreed upon for admission were allowed to enter. The greatest interest of the morning cen- tered In the announcemept which Senator Quay was expected to make to the con- veytion. It will be remembered that when he entered the contest for the state chair- manship he promised to announce upon the floor of the convention his reasons for de siring the office, Speculation upon thr