to continue the examination of
the subject and to make or secure designs, calculations, and estimates
for a memorial bridge from the most convenient point of the Naval
Observatory grounds, or adjacent thereto, across the Potomac River
to the most convenient point of the Arlington estate property." In
accordance with the provisions of this act, the Chief of Engineers has
selected four eminent bridge engineers to submit competitive designs
for a bridge combining the elements of strength and durability and such
architectural embellishment and ornamentation as will fitly apply to
the dedication, "A memorial to American patriotism." The designs are
now being prepared, and as soon as completed will be submitted to
the Congress by the Secretary of War. The proposed bridge would be a
convenience to all the people from every part of the country who visit
the national cemetery, an ornament to the Capital of the Nation, and
forever stand as a monument to American patriotism. I do not doubt that
Congress will give to the enterprise still further proof of its favor
and approval.

* * * * *

The executive order of May 6, 1896, extending the limits of the
classified service, brought within the operation of the civil-service
law and rules nearly all of the executive civil service not previously
classified.

Some of the inclusions were found wholly illogical and unsuited
to the work of the several Departments. The application of the rules
to many of the places so included was found to result in friction and
embarrassment. After long and very careful consideration, it became
evident to the heads of the Departments, responsible for their
efficiency, that in order to remove these difficulties and promote
an efficient and harmonious administration certain amendments were
necessary. These amendments were promulgated by me in executive order
dated May 29, 1899.

The principal purpose of the order was to except from competitive
examination certain places involving fiduciary responsibilities or
duties of a strictly confidential, scientific, or executive character
which it was thought might better be filled either by noncompetitive
examination, or in the discretion of the appointing officer, than by
open competition. These places were comparatively few in number. The
order provides for the filling of a much larger number of places, mainly
in the outside service of the War Department, by what is known as the
r