by John Marshall Harlan

“ The appellee is a pay-master in the navy, having served in that capacity since February 1, 1868. In the adjustment of his claim for the benefits of what is known as the longevity act of March 3, 1883, (22 St. 473,) the accounting officers of the treasury deducted the sum of $1,112.75, the amount paid the claimant under general order No. 75, issued by the secretary of the navy, under date of May 23, 1866, in relation to allowances 'for rent of quarters, or to pay rent for furniture, or for lights and fuel,' etc. ”

“ The object of the order, as appears upon its face, was to establish a fixed rate of compensation in lieu of the extra allowances prohibited by the act of March 3, 1835, (4 St. 753,) which last act was repealed by that of April 17, 1866, (14 St. 33, 38.) ”

“ That order made an allowance to officers not provided with quarters on shore stations of 'a sum equal to 33 1/3 per centum of their pay in lieu of all allowances, except for mileage and traveling expenses under orders ”