New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1881-07-30
THE COLLECrOR's POLICY.

THE COLLECTORS POLICY.
In closing the foregoing statement which Will be the
last annual report shall be privileged to make wish
TO state that 1t has been my policy Collector ad
minister the Customs laws and regulations strictly
and mpartiay, and i'm doing cause as little DELAY
or annoyance in the transaction of business possible
In all cases OF dispute Misunderstanding parties have
agreement prompt reference the Department for its
decision cheerfuly bear testimony the prompt and
for immediate consideration.
Our tariff embracing such variety of articles and
many cassihcaons, makes il well nigh impossible to
protect the without giving sharp
modification OF the tariff. 1t should be greatly simpi-
ned ana when practcable be based on specific duties
IN! Inc occasion Tor raising such a large revenue
the necessities of the country demanded, pre-
OF duties which are now possible and desirable The
free list should be largely increased TO include especially
has been small. aud where II has practical
reduction can he made without seriously ini1ri1g
our domestic manufactures, which, by of their
Importance to The country, require its special consdera
ton A tariff for revenue adjusted afford Incl
theory our laws and experience has proyed the wis
dom OF that policy and do not favor departure from
1t has also been purpose elevate the standard OF
he service a. much as possible by considerable and
iormatory discipline. feel Justified i'm stating that
there has been decided improy in that regard
Fewer complaints have been made against officers,
is appreciation of the improved morale Of the force
For the support and announcement have received
rS the representatives OF the Treasury Department
xsng work here as Wen as the various departments of
sne custom House am profoundly grateful To my
ior the industry and considerate watehfnlnees with
which he has discharged his responsible delicate
daties at all Times especially when chief control has
been exercised by him. The Deputy Collectors Cashier
and Auditor are able and Trustworthy gentlemen who
III the discharge OF their various duties, have had and
RETAIN my fullest confidence
SUCCESS OF THE CIVIL SERVICE.
The Civil Service policy of President Hayes which was
embodied in the rules promulgated by him govern the
appointments in the Custom House, has, in large meas.
ure served the purpose intended | of the opinion
that applying the simple test of efficiency character
as compared with appointments heretofore made,
be declared complete While IL is possible for
sderations TO select competent and trustworthy men,
yet with the desire to do he would still often be omen
TO the charge of favoritsm and il il practically impos
slDe To become sufficiently acquainted with applicants
at the outset TO determine to the wisdom their app
pOjntmcnt
The present rules have at least merit
whether the best that be devised fair and
absolutely impartial Rules however, have the full
est measure of respect should apply to all branches of
of tenure important If the employc is
OF proved competency and trustworthiness.
IL has been my good fortune TO have been connected
with the Treasury Department under the Hon. John
sherman and yourself during which period resump
ton of specie payments happily elected and the
rounding OF the National debt successfully carried
out To greatly enhance credit and abroad
resulting ALSO in the annual saving OF millions OF dollars
in interest without producing the slightest embarrass-
ment TO the business interests of the very
respectfully, your obedient servant,
f. A. MERRITT, Collector.
To he Hon WILLIAM WINDOW Secretary Of Ue treasury
Washington d. q.