is extraordinary power carries
with it a corresponding duty. Whatever shows itself dangerous to a
republican form of government must be removed without delay or
hesitation; and if the evil be Slavery, our action will be bolder when
it is known that the danger was foreseen.

In reviewing these three sources of power, I know not which is most
complete. Either would be ample alone; but the three together are three
times ample. Thus, out of this triple fountain, or, if you please, by
this triple cord, do I vindicate the power of Congress over the vacated
Rebel States.

But there are yet other words of the Constitution which cannot be
forgotten: "New States may be admitted by the Congress into this Union."
Assuming that the Rebel States are no longer _de facto_ States of this
Union, but that the territory occupied by them is within the
jurisdiction of Congress, then these words become completely applicable.
It will be for Congress, in such way as it shall think best, to regulate
the return of these States to the Union, whether in time or manner. No
special form is prescribed. But the vital act must proceed from
Congress. And here again is another testimony to that Congressional
power which, under the Constitution, will restore the Republic.

UNANSWERABLE REASONS FOR CONGRESSIONAL GOVERNMENTS

Against this power I have heard no argument which can be called an
argument. There are objections founded chiefly in the baneful pretension
of State Rights; but these objections are animated by prejudice rather
than reason. Assuming the impeccability of the States, and openly
declaring that states, like kings, can do no wrong, while, like kings,
they wear the "round and top of sovereignty," politicians treat them
with most mistaken forbearance and tenderness, as if these Rebel
corporations could be dandled into loyalty. At every suggestion of rigor
State Rights are invoked, and we are vehemently told not to destroy the
States, when all that Congress proposes is simply to recognize the
actual condition of the States and to undertake their temporary
government, by providing for the condition of political syncope into
which they have fallen, and, during this interval, to substitute its own
constitutional powers for the unconstitutional powers of the Rebellion.
Of course, therefore, Congress will blot no star from the flag, nor will
it obliterate any State liabilities. But it will seek, according to its
duty, in the best way, to maint