nd thus to be proportioned out to a
favored class of citizens must depend upon the regularity of
the tax sale under the law as it existed at the time of the
sale, and no subsequent legislation can give validity to the
rights thus acquired against the original claimants. The
attention of Congress is therefore invited to a more mature
consideration of the measures proposed in these sections of
the bill.

"In conclusion, I again urge upon Congress the danger of
class legislation, so well calculated to keep the public
mind in a state of uncertain expectation, disquiet, and
restlessness, and to encourage interested hopes and fears
that the National Government will continue to furnish to
classes of citizens, in the several States, means for
support and maintenance, regardless of whether they pursue a
life of indolence or labor, and regardless, also, of the
constitutional limitations of the national authority in
times of peace and tranquillity.

"The bill is herewith returned to the House of
Representatives, in which it originated, for its final
action.

"ANDREW JOHNSON.

"WASHINGTON, D. C., _July_ 16, 1866."

As soon as the reading of this document had been completed, a motion
was passed that it should be laid on the table and printed. Notice was
given that it would be called up for the action of the House on the
following day. Mr. Le Blond, a Democrat, suggested that it would be
too long to wait until to-morrow to pass it over the veto, and without
debate. The sooner action was taken, the more apparent would be the
bad _animus_.

"I have no objection," said Mr. Eliot, taking him at his word. Others
said, "There is no objection," whereupon the vote was reconsidered by
which the matter was postponed.

The motion to reconsider the postponement was carried, and the
previous question called, "Shall this bill become a law, the
objections of the President to the contrary notwithstanding?"

"I do not see why we need be in such a hurry," said Mr. Rogers.

"One of your own side suggested that the vote better be taken now,"
replied Mr. Ashley.

"Well, he was not in earnest, of course," said Mr. Rogers, creating
some mirth by the remark.

"I hope the gentleman will make no objection," said Mr. Le Blond,
addressing his remark to Mr. Rogers.

Mr. Ward suggested that "the De