he, "for a few moments, to
examine this question with a somewhat extensive reference to the
history of the Constitution in this connection, and if possible to
arrive at a conclusion whether the honorable gentleman from
Pennsylvania has given greater attention to the history of this
question than the President, and whether the conclusion which he has
reached is a safer one for the country, or more in harmony with the
history and true intent of the Constitution, than that of the
President."

Near the close of his remarks, referring to the measure before the
House, Mr. Kerr remarked: "I can see but one single clear result that
will follow from this amendment if it is adopted by the people of this
country, and that is an effect that will inure not to the advantage of
the nation, nor of any State in the Union, nor of any class or race of
men in any State; but it will inure solely to the benefit and
advantage of the Republican party. In my judgment, the only persons
who will gain by this provision will be the now dominant party in this
country. They will thereby increase their power; they will thereby
degrade the South; they will reduce her representation here, and
relatively increase their own representation; they will confirm the
sectional supremacy of the North in the legislation and administration
of the Government. They may thus compel the South to become suppliants
at their feet for justice, and it may be for mercy."

Mr. Kasson, of Iowa, and Mr. Wright, of New Jersey, made extended
remarks, avowedly in opposition to the measure, but dwelling, for the
greater portion of their time, upon subjects remotely connected with
the resolution before the House.

Discussion was resumed in the House on Monday, January 29th. The
question having become much complicated by the numerous propositions
to amend, the Speaker, by request of Mr. Conkling, stated the exact
position of the subject before the House, and the various questions
pending. The Speaker said: "The committee having reported this joint
resolution, the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Stevens] moved to
amend by inserting the word 'therein' after the words 'all persons,'
in the last clause of the proposed amendment to the Constitution.

"Pending that motion, the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Kelley]
moved an entirely new proposition in the nature of a substitute for
the joint resolution reported from the joint committee, proposing an
amendment to the Constitution