Mr. Bayard asked for information whether it was in order for him to state that he withdrew his resolution?
Some conversation took place as to points of order.
The question on the resolution was called for.
Mr. Dana said there was no instruction given to the committee by the resolution of December 13, to make a report on the subject of imposts and tonnage. He was pleased to see this resolution moved by the gentleman from Maryland, as it showed his belief to be that the subject was not referred to the committee.
Mr. Dana expressed his wish that two things should be referred to the Committee of Ways and Means: First, a general view of the duties of imposts and excise that they might be contrasted; and, secondly, that certain articles should be specifically referred to them.
Mr. Nicholson said the gentleman from Connecticut was very much mistaken as to the object of his resolution. It was not that he did not think the subject before the committee, but as so much had been said about the former general reference, he wished to prevent the gentleman from Connecticut from quibbling respecting the reference.
[Here Mr. N. was called to order by Mr. Griswold. The Speaker declared it as his opinion that the gentleman was in order. Mr. Bayard appealed to the House, and called the yeas and nays, which were agreed to be taken.]
Internal Revenues—Expenses of collection compared with Custom House Duties.
Mr. Bayard called up the following resolution, which he had some days previously laid upon the table, viz:
"Resolved, That the Secretary of the Treasury be required to lay before this House an account, in detail, of the expenses incurred in the collection of the internal revenues of the United States; distinguishing, where the same may be practicable, the expenses attending the collection in each branch of the said revenue, and, also, an estimate of reduction of said expenses which may conveniently be made."