Page:The Presidents of the United States, 1789-1914, v. III.djvu/260

214 LIVES OF THE PRESIDENTS country must make repose especially welcome now. No demand for speedy legislation has been heard; no adequate occasion is apparent for an unusual session of congress. The constitution defines the functions and powers of the executive as clearly as those of either of the other two departments of the government, and he must answer for the just exercise of the discretion it permits and the per formance of the duties it imposes. Summoned to these high duties and responsibilities, and pro foundly conscious of their magnitude and gravity, I assume the trust imposed by the constitution, re lying for aid on Divine guidance and the virtue, patriotism, and intelligence of the American peo- pie." He also on the same day appointed Monday, September 26, as a day of mourning for the late president. On September 23 he issued a proclam ation convening the senate in extraordinary session, to meet October 10, in order that a president pro tern, of that body might be elected. The members of the cabinet were requested to retain their places until the regular meeting of congress in December, and did remain until their successors were ap pointed, except Sec. Windom, who, desiring to be come a candidate for senator from Minnesota, re signed from the treasury October 24. Edwin D. Morgan was nominated and confirmed secretary of the treasury, but declined the appointment; and