FIFTY-FIRST CONGRESS. 1889-1891. 1329 
January 30, 1890—House. 
Mr. C. A. Russetu introduced joint resolution (H. 87). Same as 
S. 39. 
Referred to Committee on the Library. 
March 3, 1890—Senate. 
Mr. D. W. VoorHers, from Committee on Library, reported in 
favor of S. 39. 
April 26, 1890—Senate. 
Mr. D. W. VoorHeEss called up joint resolution (S. 39). 
Mr. Voorners. Mr. President, before a vote is taken on the joint 
resolution just read, I venture to ask a few moments in which to tell 
the story of the sword which it tenders for our acceptance. 
* * * * * * % 
Mr. JoHn SHERMAN. Is it wise, after this lapse of time, to make 
this extraordinary movement, after having paid the money, to issue a 
medal which is only granted by the Government of the United States 
on rare occasions? It seems tome not. If the sword is of value— 
and no doubt this sword ought to be preserved among the relics in the 
Smithsonian Institution or in the National Museum—whatever its value 
is in money or in glory, pay for it and put it among the chosen relics 
of the heroism of American citizens. But it seems to me that this 
medal of honor, granted only for illustrious services, like those ren- 
dered by General Grant and a few others, should not be awarded in 
this instance. There are not many medals awarded by the Govern- 
ment of the United States, and it does seem to me that this is not a 
case for such a remarkable act. Besides, it is not to be given to 
Captain Reid. 
* * * * * * * 
Mr. I. G. Harris. I desire to suggest to the Senator from New York 
that this resolution provides that the sword shall be deposited in the 
National Museum. Now, if this medal is to be deposited, as suggested 
by the Senator from Missouri, I think it eminently proper that the 
sword should be deposited with it at the same place, and instead of the 
Navy Department, let it be provided that the medal shall be ian we 
in the National Museum. 
Mr. W. M. Evarts. I assent to that proposition. 
Mr. C. F. Manprerson. I suggest that by unanimous consent these 
amendments be made, which will reach the object we all seem to have 
in view: That we strike out of the title of the bill all after the word 
**Reid,” striking out that part which reads ‘‘and providing for the 
presentation to him by Congress of a gold medal;” and in line 8 of 
section 1 strike out ‘* be presented by Congress to his son, Sam C. Reid,” 
and instead thereof insert the words ‘‘to cost;” so as to make the 
resolution read: 
That a gold medal, with suitable devices engraved thereon, to be approved by 
the Committee on the Library, to cost not to exceed the sum of $1,000, which is 
H. Doe. {32 84 
