Mr. ALLEY. I decline to accept that as a modification of my amendment. Mr. Speaker, this matter was originally referred to the committee, and after hearing all arties in interest, upon a full and thorough investigation it was unanimousl decided, I believe with a single exceptiouam not certain they did not all agree that I should report this as an original independent bill to the House. Not having had an opportunity to do so, I report it as an additional section to this bill. This is a bridge already built, but differing in some particulars from the bridges it is proosed to uild b the bill now before the House. t has a draw 0 only 120 feet, while the width of the draws of the bridges proposed to be built under the bill before the IiIouse is to be 160 feet. This is the only difference so far as anyimportant particular is concerned. Now, as this rests upon a.different principle from the other bridges, I propose to consider it separately and therefore have offered it as an additional section. I propose to give the gentlemen who are opposed to it an opportunity to give their views on this section. The erection of these bridges involves interests of vast magnitude, not only to the people of the Northwest, but to nearly all the citizens of this widely extended country. So important has it become to extend and increase our facilities of transportation across as well as upon navigable streams, that all are compelled to concede what was once disputed, the complete jurisdiction of Congress over this matter. No one contends either, that it is possible to meet the demands of a constantly increasing inland commerce under our present railway system much longer without the erection of many bridges over the “Father of Waters.” The constitutional objection being surrendered, and the necessities of the public admitted, that bridging of some kind is needed and must be had, it only remains to determine what kind of bridges you will authorize the erection of. That, and that only, is the point in issue at.the present time. As I said when I offered the amendment, this bridge occupies a position different from the others. It is alrea y built, and it appears from the testimony before the committee that it is substantially built of the best materials, and at the best point between StLouis and StPaul, interfering little, if any, with the navigation of the river. It is guarded at all points. it is provided that it shall not materially obstruct the navigation of the river. Under the circumstances I hope the House will sanction the action of the committee and pass the bill. I will now yield ten minutes 0 my time to the Gentfrom Missouri, [Mr. Hoax]