Mr. NIBLACK. Mr. Speaker, as I am a member of the ComClaims, I desire to make a brief explanation. I understand the committee have reported the resolution unanimously. Now, while I do not fully agree with the chairman in the line of argument he pursued this morning, I do agree with him in the general proposition contained in the resolution. its. now impracticable to consider these questions, for no committee could take them up and examine them separately as they ought to be, and make such reports to the House as would afford proor basis for action. It is a work which oug it to be performed by some board or court outside of Congress when the Government shall have determined to pay these claims, if it shall ever resolve to do so. There ought to be some general law, some civil or military tribunal, for the adjustment of these claims, and we ought not to be called upon to pass a special act in each particultu case. That is requiring too much of any committee of this House. Then we have the question which was raised by the suggestion of the Gentfrom NewYvork, [Mr. Coxxmxoj The statusof the rebel Statesand theircitizens in referenceto the General Government has not Yet been defined by any action of the House. pon the view, therefore, that it should 1st be determined by the House what are the relations of these people to the Government, it is certainly improper for the ComClaims to forests l, in their action upon any individual cases, the rule which may be ereafter adopted. If we should attempt to discuss the question a division would come 11 in the minds of the committee. I have no don t, especially in view of remarks which the chairman has submitted this morning, that the committee would be unable to agree as to the statm of the rebellious States with reference to the Government and all kindred questions. Hence the proprict of deferring all action in relation to claims from these States. For my own part, I confess I have always been 1866. 511 under the impression that at some time and in some way we ought at least to reimburse the loyal citizens of the rebellious States who furnished supplies for the Army, and especially that class of claimants who have received vouchers from the Government.