This work is so far advanced that it will be entirely completed by the 15th of June.
2. Preparation for the shaft.—The other operations have consisted in the erection of the interior frame-work for the staircases and elevator within the shaft, which frame-work will be used in the construction of the masonry; the collection of granite and marble for continuing the shaft; and the preparation of the machinery for raising the stones to the top of the shaft, and setting them in place on the walls.
APPROPRIATIONS.
The only appropriation for this work as yet made by Congress is two hundred thousand dollars, contained in the act of August 2, 1876, which sum will be exhausted by the end of August, 1880.
The estimate for completing this work is $667,000, and the time required will be four working seasons.
Very respectfully, your ob't servant,
THOS. LINCOLN CASEY,
Lieutenant-Colonel Engineers, U.S.A.,
Engineer in Charge.
United States Senate Chamber,
Washington, D. C., March 31, 1879.
Dear Sir: I inclose, as possibly of interest, extracts from a letter I have just received from Hon. George P. Marsh, our Minister at Rome.