GROVER CLEVELAND.
EXECUTIVE MANSION, _January 17, 1888_.
_To the Senate and House of Representatives_:
On the 3d day of March last an act was passed authorizing the
appointment of three commissioners who should investigate the affairs of
such railroads as have received aid from the United States Government.
Among other things, the contemplated investigation included a history of
the construction of these roads, their relations and indebtedness to the
Government, and the question whether in the interest of the United
States any extension of the time for the performance of the obligations
of said roads to the Government should be granted; and if so, the said
commissioners were directed to submit a scheme for such extension.
The commissioners were further directed by said act to report in full to
the President upon all the matters submitted to them, and he was by said
act required to forward said report to Congress with such
recommendations or comments as he should see fit to make in the
premises.
The commissioners immediately after their selection entered upon the
discharge of their duties, and have prosecuted their inquiries with
commendable industry, intelligence, and thoroughness. A large amount of
testimony has been taken, and all the facts have been developed which
appear to be necessary for the consideration of the questions arising
from the condition of these aided railroads and their relations to the
Government.
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