The agricultural classes have been forced from their farms into the nearest towns, where they are without work or money.  The local authorities of the several towns, however kindly disposed, are unable to relieve the needs of their own people, and are altogether powerless to help our citizens.

The latest report of Consul-General Lee estimates six to eight hundred Americans are without means of support.  I have assured him that provision would be made at once to relieve them.  To that end I recommend that Congress make an appropriation of not less than $50,000, to be immediately available for use, under the direction of the Secretary of State.

It is desirable that a part of the sum which may be appropriated by Congress should, in the discretion of the Secretary of State, also be used for the transportation of American citizens who, desiring to return to the United States, are without means to do so.

WILLIAM McKINLEY.

EXECUTIVE MANSION, July 1, 1897.

To the Congress of the United States: 

On the 15th ultimo all the buildings of the immigration station at Ellis Island, New York, excepting the heating plant and lighting apparatus, were destroyed by fire.

I transmit herewith a letter from the Secretary of the Treasury, which states the fact and explains the need of rebuilding.

In order that there may be no delay in this important work, I recommend that an appropriation be made at once of $600,000, the sum estimated by the Secretary of the Treasury as required for this purpose.

WILLIAM McKINLEY.

EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, July 23, 1897.

To the Senate of the United States: 

I transmit herewith a report from the Acting Secretary of State, with an accompanying paper, in response to the resolution of the Senate of July 12, 1897, requesting the Secretary of State to send to the diplomatic representatives of the United States abroad a circular letter, similar to the one sent by Secretary Elaine on May 20, 1881, instructing them to obtain from the several foreign governments to which they are accredited as full information as possible (including copy of laws relating thereto) as to the nature and practical workings (including expenses, receipts, and rates) of the postal telegraphs, telephones, and postal savings banks of such countries as have adopted the same.

WILLIAM McKINLEY.

EXECUTIVE MANSION, July 24, 1897.

To the Congress of the United States: 

In my message convening the Congress in extraordinary session I called attention to a single subject—­that of providing revenue adequate to meet the reasonable and proper expenses of the Government.  I believed that to be the most pressing subject for settlement then.  A bill to provide the necessary revenues for the Government has already passed the House of Representatives and the Senate and awaits executive action.