the force engaged in examinations in the field was
recalled and added to the working force of the office. The examination
and adjudication of claims have by reason of improved methods been more
rapid than ever before. There is no economy to the Government in delay,
while there is much hardship and injustice to the soldier. The
anticipated expenditure, while very large, will not, it is believed, be
in excess of the estimates made before the enactment of the law. This
liberal enlargement of the general law should suggest a more careful
scrutiny of bills for special relief, both as to the cases where relief
is granted and as to the amount allowed.

The increasing numbers and influence of the non-Mormon population of
Utah are observed with satisfaction. The recent letter of Wilford
Woodruff, president of the Mormon Church, in which he advised his people
"to refrain from contracting any marriage forbidden by the laws of the
land," has attracted wide attention, and it is hoped that its influence
will be highly beneficial in restraining infractions of the laws of the
United States. But the fact should not be overlooked that the doctrine
or belief of the church that polygamous marriages are rightful and
supported by divine revelation remains unchanged. President Woodruff
does not renounce the doctrine, but refrains from teaching it, and
advises against the practice of it because the law is against it. Now,
it is quite true that the law should not attempt to deal with the faith
or belief of anyone; but it is quite another thing, and the only safe
thing, so to deal with the Territory of Utah as that those who believe
polygamy to be rightful shall not have the power to make it lawful.

The admission of the States of Wyoming and Idaho to the Union are events
full of interest and congratulation, not only to the people of those
States now happily endowed with a full participation in our privileges
and responsibilities, but to all our people. Another belt of States
stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

The work of the Patent Office has won from all sources very high
commendation. The amount accomplished has been very largely increased,
and all the results have been such as to secure confidence and
consideration for the suggestions of the Commissioner.

The enumeration of the people of the United States under the provisions
of the act of March 1, 1889, has been completed, and the result will
be at once officially communicate