Andrew Johnson: “This language is very significant.”

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.

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

This event will occasion mourning in the nation for the loss of an eminent citizen and honored public servant.

No report upon this subject has yet been received by me from the War Department.