Executive Order No. 8

WASHINGTON, April 16, 1872.

The Advisory Board of the civil service, having completed the grouping
contemplated by the rules already adopted, have recommended certain
provisions for carrying the rules into effect.

The recommendations as herewith published are approved, and the provisions
will be enforced as rapidly as the proper arrangements can be made; and the
thirteenth of the rules adopted on the 19th day of December last is amended
to read as published herewith.

The utmost fidelity and diligence will be expected of all officers in every
branch of the public service. Political assessments, as they are called,
have been forbidden within the various Departments; and while the right of
all persons in official position to take part in politics is acknowledged,
and the elective franchise is recognized as a high trust to be discharged
by all entitled to its exercise, whether in the employment of the Government
or in private life, honesty and efficiency, not political activity, will
determine the tenure of office.

U.S. GRANT.

By the President
HAMILTON FISH,
Secretary of State.