Mr. Stanton holds the position unwillingly.

This language is very significant.

Under a sense of public duty I am compelled to deny your right under the Constitution and laws of the United States.

Public considerations of a high character constrain me to say that your resignation as Secretary of War will be accepted.

Thus far and upon this vital policy there was perfect accord between the Cabinet and myself.

Mr. Stanton does not content himself with assuming that public considerations bearing upon his continuance in office form as fully a rule of action for himself as for the President.

I make great allowance for a change of opinion, but such a change as this hardly falls within the limits of greatest indulgence.

It was approved, and at the earliest moment practicable was applied in the form of a proclamation to the State of North Carolina.

You are hereby suspended from office as Secretary of War, and will cease to exercise any and all functions pertaining to the same.

There was an interval of a week between that date and the order of suspension, during which two Cabinet meetings were held.

To the Senate of the United States: I transmit to the Senate, in answer to their resolution of the 25th ultimo, a report from the Secretary of State, with accompanying papers.