James Monroe: “I now transmit a report from the Secretary or State, containing the information embraced by that resolution.”

To remove all doubt on the subject, I submit to the consideration of Congress the propriety of passing a declaratory act to that effect.

From the view which I have taken of these reports I contemplate results of incalculable advantage to our Union

The attitude assumed by the State formed a case which was not contemplated by the existing laws of the United States relating to militia services.

The exposure being common to the whole District, the regulation should apply to the whole, to make which Congress alone possesses the adequate power.