lished by simple compliance with the plain
requirements of the Constitution, than by a recourse to
measures which, in effect, destroy the States, and threaten
the subversion of the General Government? All that is
necessary to settle this simple but important question,
without further agitation or delay, is a willingness, on the
part of all, to sustain the Constitution, and carry its
provisions into practical operation. If to-morrow either
branch of Congress would declare that, upon the presentation
of their credentials, members constitutionally elected, and
loyal to the General Government, would be admitted to seats
in Congress, while all others would be excluded, and their
places remain vacant until the selection by the people of
loyal and qualified persons; and if, at the same time,
assurance were given that this policy would be continued
until all the States were represented in Congress, it would
send a thrill of joy throughout the entire land, as
indicating the inauguration of a system which must speedily
bring tranquillity to the public mind.

"While we are legislating upon subjects which are of great
importance to the whole people, and which must affect all
parts of the country, not only during the life of the
present generation, but for ages to come, we should remember
that all men are entitled at least to a hearing in the
councils which decide upon the destiny of themselves and
their children. At present ten States are denied
representation, and when the Fortieth Congress assembles, on
the fourth day of the present month, sixteen States will be
without a voice in the House of Representatives. This grave
fact, with the important questions before us, should induce
us to pause in a course of legislation, which, looking
solely to the attainment of political ends, fails to
consider the rights it transgresses, the law which it
violates, or the institutions which it imperils.

"ANDREW JOHNSON."

After the reading of the message, the question came up, "Shall the
bill pass, the objections of the President to the contrary
notwithstanding?"

Mr. Eldridge declared that it would be the duty of the minority, if it
were within their physical power, to defeat the bill. "But we are
conscious," said he, "that no effo