Andrew Johnson: “You speak of my letter of the 31st ultimo as a reiteration of the 'many and gross misrepresentations' contained in…”

I transmit herewith, in answer to a resolution of the House of Representatives of the 16th of December last, a report from the Secretary of State of the 6th instant.

No power exists in the Constitution authorizing the joint resolution or the supposed law--the only difference being that one would be more palpably unconstitutional and revolutionary than the other.

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.

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