James Buchanan: “This bill will prove unequal and unjust in its operation, because from its nature it is confined to one class of our…”

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

I submit, therefore, the expediency of the passage of a resolution authorizing the exchange of ratifications at such time as may be convenient, the limitations of the ninth article to the contrary notwithstanding.

Had I refused to adopt this precautionary measure, and evil consequences, which many good men at the time apprehended, had followed, I should never have forgiven myself.

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