of which have been
treated at large in previous messages, and at this time, therefore, need
only be named. I refer to the abolition of the fee system as a measure
of compensation to Federal officers; the enlargement of the powers of
United States commissioners, at least in the Territories; the allowance
of writs of error in criminal cases on behalf of the United States, and
the establishment of degrees in the crime of murder. A topic dealt
with by the Attorney-General of much importance is the condition of
the administration of justice in the Indian Territory. The permanent
solution of what is called the Indian problem is probably not to be
expected at once, but meanwhile such ameliorations of present conditions
as the existing system will admit of ought not to be neglected. I am
satisfied there should be a Federal court established for the Territory,
with sufficient judges, and that this court should sit within the
Territory and have the same jurisdiction as to Territorial affairs as
is now vested in the Federal courts sitting in Arkansas and Texas.

Another subject of pressing moment referred to by the Attorney-General
is the reorganization of the Union Pacific Railway Company on a basis
equitable as regards all private interests and as favorable to the
Government as existing conditions will permit. The operation of a
railroad by a court through a receiver is an anomalous state of things
which should be terminated on all grounds, public and private, at the
earliest possible moment. Besides, not to enact the needed enabling
legislation at the present session postpones the whole matter until
the assembling of a new Congress and inevitably increases all the
complications of the situation, and could not but be regarded as a
signal failure to solve a problem which has practically been before
the present Congress ever since its organization.

Eight years ago in my annual message I urged upon the Congress as
Strongly as I could the location and construction of two prisons for the
confinement of United States prisoners.[12] A similar recommendation has
been made from time to time since, and a few years ago a law was passed
providing for the selection of sites for three such institutions. No
appropriation has, however, been made to carry the act into effect, and
the old and discreditable condition still exists.

It is not my purpose at this time to repeat the considerations which
make an impregnable case in favor of the owne