1852: Dark Clouds Over The Pacific Coast Lighthouses - Part 2

There were exceptions to standard governmental procedures in every step of preparing for the construction of the California and Oregon lighthouses. Following the signing of the three-partners contracts, no bond or security was immediately required of the partners. The contract was not to be advertised; this by direct order of the Secretary of the Treasury. The Secretary had asked John McGinnis to check the law concerning requirements that government contracts be publicly advertised. This request shocked McGinnis. The Treasury Department was involved in every contract entered into by the United States Government. How was it possible that the Secretary of the Treasury did not know the requirements for the letting of contracts?