such statements flatly, for I never say anything to them. Tell Gratz [Brown] that I shall write to him as soon as I have delivered my speech. Here they quite generally put him down as having gone over to the Democrats—in consequence of his first serenade speech. I expect the thing to turn up in our debate.
POLITICAL DISABILITIES: POLITICAL CONDITIONS, ESPECIALLY IN MISSOURI[1]
Mr. President:—The meaning of the resolution which you have heard must appear so clear, plain and just to every intelligent and patriotic mind that it would, at first sight, seem superfluous to say anything in its defense, or even in explanation of it; and yet events have taken place which render it doubtful whether the policy it indicates is justly appreciated in the high places of the Government; and considering this fact it is proper that a sentiment so emphatically indorsed by the people of the State which I have the honor to represent should find a vindicating voice here.
I have already given notice that I would avail myself of this opportunity to submit some observations upon the political movements in Missouri, which seem to have attracted unusual attention and have acquired more than local interest. If my remarks partake largely of the nature of a personal explanation it is not as if I felt any
- ↑ Speech in the United States Senate, Dec. 15, 1870. On the 12th Schurz had submitted the following resolution: Resolved, That the disqualifications and disabilities imposed upon persons lately in rebellion against the Government of the United States were dictated by imperative public necessities, and not by a spirit of hatred or vindictiveness; and that, as soon as such public necessities cease, due regard for the fundamental principles of our system of government, as well as every consideration of sound statesmanship, demands the removal of those disqualifications and disabilities.
