James Buchanan: “I transmit herewith a report from the Secretaries of State and Navy, with the accompanying papers, in compliance with…”

The peace and order of the city itself and the security of the inauguration of the President elect, were objects of such vast importance to the whole country that I could not hesitate to adopt precautionary defensive measures.

Before accepting this proposition I have thought it right to take the advice of the Senate.

The dispatch of Mr. Dallas being in the original, its return to the Department of State is requested.

There is but one mode left of settling the dispute, and that is by submitting it to the arbitration of some friendly and impartial power.