Andrew Johnson: “The extraordinary character of your letter of the 3d instant would seem to preclude any reply on my part.”

The danger of a defeat of the people's choice in an election by the House of Representatives remains unprovided for in the Constitution.

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.

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.

Feeling constrained to withhold my consent, I herewith return the resolution to the Senate, in which House it originated, with a brief statement of the reasons which have induced my action.