American Republican And Baltimore Daily Clipper

FRANKING PRIVILEGE. In the discussion in the Senate on the post office bill, Mr. Buchanan advocated the abolition of the franking privilege. He referred to the practice in England, where even Queen Victoria cannot frank a note. "Members of Parliament" (said Mr. Buchanan) "were called upon to forego a privilege for the sake of advancing a great public object; and they agreed to do so. Will an American Congress refuse to do that which a British Parliament has done in the accomplishment of a great advantage to the people? For my own part," (said Mr. B.) "I find the franking privilege rather an inconvenience than an advantage: scarcely a day passes during which I am not asked for franks: letters come to me under blank covers, very often from ladies; what am I to do with them?" ["Take them to the ladies yourself," said a voice on the floor.] "Yes," (said Mr. B.) "and make my bow, I suppose."

"You must either restrict the franking privilege or keep up the high rates of postage. Fifteen thousand deputy postmasters and both Houses of Congress retaining the franking privilege, will destroy the bill. I see no fear of not keeping the offices well filled with competent postmasters without the franking privilege."

The franking privilege has been much abused in the United States, and if not totally abolished, should certainly be restricted.