Mr. SPRAGUE. I trust that that amendment to the amendment Will not be agreed to. The object I have is to designate some few of the pointsmpon which it is desirable that this commission shall investigate. The 1st of the persons who were suggested by myself in drawing this amendment was one who had been in the Dept for many years and who is conversant with all the laws regulating this Dept of the Government as well as every other. It was, therefore, with the purpose of facilitating the objects of the commission that I named him, without in the slightest derec embarrassing or in any way prejudicing t on views. The object of appointing the collector of the port of NewYork was because he is, probably, in a situation to judge better than any other man in the country as to the workings of the system, withont desiring to prejudice the opinions which might be made for or against the system. The collector of the ort of NewYork comes directly in contact with the interests of the importer; and if I had a design to prejudice this commission in favor of the home inanufactnrer by the appoiutment of persons who would favor that i ea, it would certainly not be accomplished by the appointment of the man who is constantly in contact with this class of the trade of our country. I had no such view. The object which I desire is simply to obtain this information. I believe the Senate and the country are not informed as to the workings of this system. I do not care how much discussion has been had upon it in in this Chamber or elsewhere, there is nothing in human affairs that will not be illustrated higher and better as time rolls rdund and as experience brings forth new light on the subject. The only object that I have is to obtain light on this subject. I repudiate the suggestion of the Senfrom California that I desire to build up a Chinese wall between this country and foreign countries. My object is to introduce into this country all that is good in foreign countries and make it our own, that we may illustrate the greatness and glory of our own country. Sir, when I have a feeling to promote anyone interest that may be to the disadvantage of this country, or in any way taint its escutelieon, or any desire to promote one interest at the expense of another, may my tongue cease to speak and my hand to obey any emotion of my will. I have no such desire. It seems to me that Senators are remarkabl sensitive on this subject. When simple truti is desired to be illustrated, when simple information upon a ‘topic which has been discussed hereto ore is sought, I am surprised that there should be hesitation upon such a subject, when upon all other subjects the Senate have exhibited the greatest desire for information.