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The letter Of a contractor, suggesting an im- prOvpmrnt and soliciting an extra allowance. not unfrequen,ly has served the double office of all authority for the grant, and Ofa record Of its existence. S0me dark corner of a con- tract, or loose scrap of paper, IS commonly inc only official evidence of the order fOT large disbursements of money, under the name of extra allowances. It is a puzzling problem tO decide, whether this discretionary power. throughout it's whole existence, has done most mischrfin the character OfimpOstUr upon the Department, or sedueer to contractors. It has, doubtless, been an evildOer, in both gui- ses.

 "The committee have not deemed it with. in the scope of their authority tO prepare a bIl. This duty comes within the province OG a Standing Committee of the H"nse.

 "'Fhe committee. in surveying the wide fesd of their labors. regret only that their re ward had not been discoveries of a more plaa- ssnss etaaracfeE. They had hoped that theil researches would have brought to light the fruits of an enlightened and well directed la hor, instead of prooes of error and neglect.- But they have finished the task assigned the n with an honest purpose and [" the best of their ability. It remains for Congress to give q more perfect organization to this Department; aud, for those who administer it, tO hiring to it's renovation the most efficient and persever- ing application of practical talent and bnsi ness-Iike habit. with general and visilant pers"nal superintendcnce."

 The Committee consisted of Messrs. Con nor, Stoddert, E. Whitlesty. H. Everett, Beardsley, Watmough. and Hawes.