Among the estimates of the appropriations proposed to be made for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1858, the Secretary of the Treasury transmits the following.
Harpes Ferry Armory.– For iron fence and gates in front of armory offices, $766; for purchase and fabrication of new machinery, $34,204– total of $34,970.
The building in the armory yard devoted to offices, and in which all the officers of the armory, with their clerks, including the vault of the military storekeeper and paymaster, is without any enclosure. It is proposed to construct an iron fence in front, so as in a great degree to separate it from the business of the yard, and as a better and further protection to the records and papers of the establishment.
In consequence of the modifications and additions made to the rifle-musket and rifle, additional machines are necessary to their manufacture. Some of the machines required are to replace those now on hand, much dilapidated and badly constructed, and not well adapted to the present mode of manufacture. A main line of shafting is required; additional machinery and fixtures are required for the fabrication of swords and pistols.
