The question on filling the blank with two hundred thousand dollars, was put, and negatived without a division.
Mr. Gallatin moved to fill the blank with $150,000. He said that, with respect to the integrity of the Secretary of War, he did not doubt it in the least; as to his talents he had no opportunity of forming a correct judgment of them; he was, however, some judge of accounts, and he saw enough of them to authorize the declaration which he had made as to the improper connection of the different departments. He had spoken of facts only.
The question for filling the blank with $150,000 was put, and carried without a division.
After agreeing to several other items, amongst which was one for the vessels on the Lakes, the committee rose, the House agreed to the amendment, and the bill was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading.
Presents to Ministers.
The Speaker said he had received a letter this morning, signed Thomas Pinckney, which he was desired to lay before the House. It was accordingly read. It stated that when he (Mr. Pinckney) had concluded the late treaty with the Spanish Government, the Spanish Minister, the Prince of Peace, informed him the presents usually given in such cases would be prepared for him; and that also when he took leave of the British Court, the like information was given to him by the Minister there. To both of which he replied, that the Constitution of the United States forbade its Ministers from receiving any present from any foreign Prince or State, without the consent of Congress; that in due time he would ask that consent, and act accordingly. This letter asks for the determination of Congress.
It was moved by Mr. Rutledge to refer this letter to a select committee.
Mr. Macon wished it to go to a Committee of the whole House.
After some observations, the latter motion was negatived, and the former carried.