Andrew Johnson: “For these reasons I return the bill to the Senate, in which House it originated, for the further consideration of…”

My object in this communication is to suggest certain defects in the Constitution which seem to me to require correction.

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.

Strongly impressed with the truth of these views, I feel called upon by an imperative sense of duty to revive substantially the recommendation so often and so earnestly made by President Jackson.