National Republican. (Washington City (D.C.)) 1872-1888, 1874-07-15
FOUR,AND-A.RALF STREET.

FACTS, SCENES AND GOSSIP FROM
COLUMBIA BUILDING.
Yesterday morning the same eagerDess was
manifested by a large throng of people to
know just what the Commission intended TO
do, and when they proposed to do it, as was
observed on previous days. They began to
arrive about O'Clock, some in vehicles, others
on foot. Some wanted contracts, others en-
ployment, and all money. They filed the
sidewalks aud crowded the passages of the
building. They knew it was useless to be
there, that the Commission would not for the
present take definite action on any matter, but
with that undeinable longing to be near the
seat of power, they came and waited. They
separated in groups, talked themselves dry in
commenting or disappearing the change, and
then refreshed themselves at Drivers.
Meanwhile Lieutenant Hoxie and the Commits
sion had arrived, and glancing carelessly at
about ton of mail, they entered carriages and
started for q survey and inspection of the work
now in progress. This occupied considerable
time, and on their return a number of visitors
interviewed the Commission about various
matters, and the executive officer betook him
self to examining into the three hundred
contracts now executed, the Contractors in the
meantime having been informed that if they
continued work they did so at their own risk.
Just what this meant those who were at work
could not ascertain, but they concluded TO keep
going until stopped by positive order, and
many suggest that such a proposition will not
be obeyed without a recourse 10 the courts. 1t
is not yet settled what course the Commission
will pursue in regard to this matter, but they
have it now under adyisement. During the
day Mr.. George F. Baker, cashier Of the First
National Bank Of New York, called and had an
interview with the Commission. Mr.. Gle
phaue, the collector of taxes, was sent for, and
consultation held in regard to the amount of
delinquent taxes due, which he stated TO be
nearly million dollars, but he somewhat sur
prised the gentlemen by informing them that,
in his opinion, not more than one fourth of the
sum could be collected by December. There
were q nnmeeT of small property-owners who
were paying taTes, and some few have paid
under the new assessment of three dollars.
Lieutenant Hoxie has issued an order which
the plumbers say will cause them great deal
Of trouble. II requires that, before any permit
to open the street for water, gas or sewer con-
nections shall be given, the plumber shall de-
post twenty-five dollars as q guarantee that
the street will be replaced in its former condi-
ton, the money to be refunded after the engi-
neer has satisfied himself that it is all right
Under the Board of Public Works such a de-
post was required when a paved street was to
be opened, but for simply taking up the side
walk fee of one dollar was required, and the
several departments issued the permits. The
men say that if they have half dozen jobs in
different sections it will require a deposit of
one hundred and fifty dollars until such
time as may be convenient for the
engineer to make his inspection.
It is also stated that in future Lieut.. Hoxie
will require deposit Of FIVE hundred dollars
before giving any party a permit TO move q
house through the streets.
The auditing commission are busily engaged
in preparing the blank forms necessary for the
satisfactory conduct Of their work. One of
the shortest official lives on record is that of
P. H. Rhinehard, who was appointed clerk
10 the auditing commission on Monday, and
whose appointment was revoked yesterday.
Gen. L. g. Burbridge, whose name was men
toned in yesterdays issue as candidate for
the office of collector, desires the statement
made that he is in this city practicing his pro-
fessiOn, and he does not and is not seeking,
nor will not accept any Office in this District.