that you do not suggest a mode of carrying into effect
the reduction of the force recommended, and I cannot, with due
regard to the remaining subjects of your inquiry, ask you to extend
your investigation into the _personnel_ of each employee, his
character, efficiency, and merits. This must be mainly left to
the collector, who, by law, is authorized to employ, with the
approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, proper persons as deputy
collectors, weighers, gaugers, and measurers, in the several ports
within his district. Thus, nearly all the officers of the customhouse
are appointed by the collector, and, with the approval of the
Secretary of the Treasury, may be removed at pleasure. He will be
promptly called upon, under special orders, to perform this delicate
and onerous duty. It is very important that it should be executed
with due regard to the efficiency and merit of the employees, and
so as best to promote the public service.

"In order that a rule might be furnished him, I called upon the
President for instructions to govern alike the collector and myself
in the execution of this duty. A copy of his answer is hereto
annexed. You will see from it that he approves your recommendations,
and that he wishes the customhouse conducted free from partisan
control, on a strictly business basis, with the same guarantees
for efficiency and fidelity in the selection of the chief and
subordinate officers that would be required by a prudent merchant;
that the public business should not be affected injuriously by the
interests or influence of party leaders or party struggles; and
that, while an officer should freely exercise his political rights
as a citizen, he should not use his power as an officer to influence
the conduct of others.

"I believe the opinions expressed by the President will meet with
your hearty approval, and they are in harmony with your report.

"Permit me to add the thanks of this department for your care,
ability and industry in conducting this inquiry.

"Very respectfully,
"John Sherman, Secretary.
"Messrs. John Jay, L. Turnure, and J. H. Robinson,
"Commission on Custom House, New York."

I inclosed a copy of the report of the commission to Collector
Arthur, with the following letter of instruction:

"Treasury Department, May 28, 1877.
"Sir:--Inclosed I send you a copy of the first report of the
commission on the New York customhouse, recommending a large
reduction of the employe