James Buchanan actually said...

"The whole claim of $25,180 was rejected by the Postmaster-General for reasons which it is no part of my present purpose to discuss."

"The enormous difference in their favor between their own original demand and the amount granted by the present bill constitutes my chief objection to it."

"My sole purpose is to afford Congress an opportunity of reconsidering this case on account of its peculiar circumstances."

"It will be found in all respects similar to the treaty between the United States and Nicaragua now pending in the Senate."