When the commission desires to take testimony under the provisions of the act of Congress to quiet land titles in California, passed July 23, 1866, or any act amendatory or supplementary thereof, it shall request the United States Supervisor of Surveys to fix a place, convenient of access by the witnesses, and the time for taking such testimony.

It may require the Attorney General to attend and represent the State at the taking of such testimony. Not more than one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) shall be allowed in any one year for traveling expenses pursuant to this section.