Andrew Johnson: “I transmit a report from the Secretary of State and a report from the Secretary of the Navy, with accompanying papers.”

In compliance with and execution of the act of Congress before mentioned, do issue this my proclamation, announcing the fact of the ratification of the said amendment by the legislature of the State of Louisiana.

I transmit the accompanying communications from the Secretary of the Interior, together with the papers to which they have reference.

The foregoing views have long been entertained by me.

With these brief suggestions the bill is respectfully returned, and the consideration of Congress invited to the accompanying preamble and resolutions.