REPORT OF COMMISSIONER OF FISH AND FISHERIES. XLIX 
During the shad distribution in May and June the Department de- 
tailed Mr. H. E. Quinn to assist in the work. 
Bureau of Construction and Repair.—The loan of two launches was 
continued during the present year. 
Bureau of Steam Engineering.—By order of Mr. Charles H. Loring, 
Chief of the Bureau, a lot of engines, tools, etc., which were no longer 
required by the Department, were lent to the Commission and proved 
very useful. 
Bureau of Yards and Docks.—A dredge and some scows belonging to 
the Washington navy-yard were lent to the Commission in June. 
Hydrographic Office.—Upon the fitting out of the Grampus the Hy- 
drographic Office furnished a valuable set of charts for her use in nay- 
igation. 
Bureau of Navigation—Commodore J.G. Walker furnished the Gram- 
pus with the Nautical Almanac, azimuth tables, and other books. He 
assisted also in procuring her instruments. 
Naval Observatory.—Allan D. Brown, Superintendent of the U.S. 
Naval Observatory, detailed Mr. W. F. Gardiner in July to oversee the 
work of erecting a time-ball at Wood’s Holl Station. 
STATE DEPARTMENT.—W hen it became desirable to have the Roosen 
apparatus for experiments upon the preservation of bait, the Secretary 
of State directed the United States consul at Leith, Scotland, to procure 
and forward a set to the Wood’s Holl Station. 
In June the Secretary furnished, upon application, a circular letter 
to all consular officers of the United States in British North America, 
introducing Capt. J. W. Collins, commanding the schooner Grampus, 
and asking for him such official aid and facilities as might be required 
during a cruise in Canadian waters. The Secretary also addressed a 
letter to Sir Lionel Sackville West, requesting him to inform the Mar- 
quis of Lansdowne of the proposed scientific expedition of the vessel. 
INTERIOR DEPARTMENT.—Patent Office.—The Official Gazette of the 
Patent Office has been supplied as heretofore; also specifications and 
drawings of various patents relating to fish and fishing apparatus. 
Geological Survey.—The Director of the Survey allowed Prof. W. J. 
McGee to make a reconnaissance of Battery Island, with a view to de- 
termining the feasibility of sinking wells at that station. 
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.—The Government Printer has ren- 
dered much aid in advancing the publications of the Commission. Mr, 
James W. White, foreman of binding, wrapped the Commission’s quota 
of its annual report. 
BOTANICAL GARDENS.—Mr. William A. Smith, superintendent, at 
various times has furnished plants for the use of the Commission. 







B.—By RAILROAD COMPANIES OF THE UNITED STATES. 
The distribution of fish and eggs is greatly facilitated by the cour- 
_tesies of the railroad companies in transporting the cars free or at a re- 
S. Mis. 90-———Iv 
