their enlarged commercial intercourse less important factors than the
individual interests to be fostered by renewed participation in a great
French exposition, especially when it is remembered that the present
display is projected with a degree of completeness and on a scale of
magnificence beyond any of the European exhibitions that have marked
the close of the century.

It is proper that I should emphasize the need of early action, for if
the present session pass without suitable provision being made, the
postponement of the matter for nearly a year longer could not but
operate greatly to the disadvantage of the United States, in view of the
elaborate preparations already making by other governments, and of the
danger that further delay may result in an inadequate allotment of space
to this country as well as an incomplete organization of the American
exhibit.

WILLIAM McKINLEY.



EXECUTIVE MANSION, _Washington, May 3, 1897_.

_To the Congress of the United States_:

I transmit a report from the Secretary of State reciting the
circumstances attending the lynching at Hahnville, La., on the night
of August 8, 1896, of three Italian subjects, named Salvatore Arena,
Giuseppe Venturelia, and Lorenzo Salardino, and I recommend the
appropriation by Congress, without admitting the liability of the
Government of the United States in the premises, of the sum of $6,000,