Items of Interest November 27, 1902 Issue

Items of Interest

The American Commissioners at Pekin have completed their award on the indemnity claims of the American missions, commercial houses, and private persons. The total amount awarded is $1,800,000, with interest amounting to $130,500. To the Chinese Converts who suffered through their connection with the Americans, an award of $17,500 was named. Although the original claims were reduced more than one-half, all the claimants are satisfied, except the merchants, who complain of the policy of the Government in paying in small instalments, and say the recovery of trade requires prompt settlement of awards.

The annual report of the chief examiner of the Civil Service Commission shows that during the last fiscal year there were 60,558 examined in and for the classified service, of whom 40,508 passed and 13,298 were appointed, promoted, or transferred. In addition 1,174 persons were examined for the Philippine service, of whom 480 passed.

Postmaster General Payne's forthcoming report will recommend a two-cent rate for postage between the United States and Great Britain, Germany, and France; and favors an early reduction in domestic postage to a one-cent rate. He thinks that the increased volume of postal business would soon reduce any initial deficit.

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