[A similar message was sent to the House of Representatives.]

WASHINGTON, December 19, 1881.

To the House of Representatives:

I transmit herewith to the House of Representatives, for the consideration of Congress, a communication from the Secretary of State, setting forth the expediency of organizing a class of supernumerary secretaries of legation to meet the needs of our diplomatic service abroad.

CHESTER A. ARTHUR.

WASHINGTON, December 19, 1881.

To the Senate of the United States:

I transmit herewith, in reply to the resolution of the Senate of the 19th of May last, a report from the Secretary of State, with an accompanying paper.[3]

CHESTER A. ARTHUR.

EXECUTIVE MANSION, December 21, 1881.