Andrew Johnson: “As stated in the preamble to the resolution, the bill to which it refers was presented for my approval on the 11th day…”

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

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.

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.