[The same message was addressed to the Speaker of the House of
Representatives.]
WASHINGTON CITY, _February 5, 1838_.
Hon. JAMES K. POLK,
_Speaker of the House of Representatives_.
SIR: I have the honor to transmit to you a report from the Secretary
of the Navy, prepared in obedience to a resolution of the House of
Representatives of the 7th December last, requiring information as to
the causes which have delayed the outfit and preparation of the South
Sea surveying and exploring expedition.