in the
opinion of Mr. Jenckes, as expressed in the conclusion of his remarks
as above presented. They conceived that the difference between the
various views of the whole question was "one of details and not of
essence." The question of reconstruction was purely practical. All
shades of opinion in the Republican party blended in this: that the
States in question were not to be restored until satisfactory pledges
were given to the United States. All speculation or attempt at
argument in reference to their abstract condition was consequently
superfluous--"a pernicious abstraction," in the language of Mr.
Lincoln.

If some were not prepared to accept the deductions of Mr. Stevens, yet
accepting the logic of Mr. Raymond, they would be carried almost as
far. The latter held that the citizens of those States were defeated
insurgents who must submit to any conditions of surrender imposed by
the victorious commander. Certain concessions could be rightfully
demanded as parts of their surrender and conditions of their
restoration. Their acquiescence had been required in a constitutional
amendment affecting the great social and industrial interests of
Southern society. After this none could deny the right, whatever might
be the expediency, of requiring their assent to other amendments
bearing upon the political structure of the Southern States.

Some of the predominant party were willing to stop short in their
demands upon the rebel States with requiring acceptance of the
emancipation amendment, repudiation of the rebel debt, legal
protection of freedmen, and revocation of the ordinances of secession.
The majority, however, were disposed to go still further, and demand
other conditions and guarantees which should become a part of the
fundamental law of the land. This was the practical work of
reconstruction for which the Joint Committee of Fifteen was preparing
the way, and upon which Congress was soon to enter.

CHAPTER XIV.

THE BASIS OF REPRESENTATION--IN THE HOUSE.

First work of the Joint Committee -- The joint resolution
proposing a constitutional amendment -- Mr. Stevens' reasons
for speedy action -- Protracted discussion commenced --
Objections to the bill by Mr. Rogers -- Defense by Mr.
Conkling -- Two other modes -- How States might evade the
Law -- Not a finality -- Wisconsin and South Carolina --
Amendment for Female Suffrage proposed -- Orth on Indiana
and Massachu