ebate, and how
we prayed that Congress might then declare for the establishment
in this District of a real, practical republic. But conscience,
or courage, or something was wanting, and women were bidden still
to wait.

When, on that March day of 1867, the negroes of the District
first voted, with what anxiety did the people wait, and with what
joy did they read the glad tidings, flashed over the wires the
following morning! And the success of that first election in
this District, inspired Congress with confidence to pass the
proposition for the XV. Amendment, and the different States to
ratify it until it has become a fixed fact that black men all
over the nation may not only vote, but sit in legislative
assemblies and constitutional conventions. We now ask Congress to
do the same for women. We ask you to enfranchise the women of the
District this very winter, so that next March they may go to the
ballot-box, and all the people of this nation may see that it is
possible for women to vote and the republic to stand. There is no
reason, no argument, nothing but prejudice, against our demand;
and there is no way to break down this prejudice but to try the
experiment. Therefore we most earnestly urge it, in full faith
that so soon as Congress and the people shall have witnessed its
beneficial results, they will go forward with a XVI. Amendment
that shall prohibit any State to disfranchise any of its citizens
on account of sex.

Mrs. HOOKER said: The fifth commandment, "Honor thy father and
thy mother," can not be obeyed while boys are taught by our laws
and constitutions to hold all women in contempt. I feel it is not
only woman's right, but duty to assume responsibility in the
government. I think the importance of the subject demands its
hearing.

Madam ANNEKE: You have lifted up the slave on this continent;
listen now to woman's cry for freedom.

Mrs. MATILDA JOSLYN GAGE: Liberty is an instinct of the human
heart, and men desirous of creating change in governments or
religion have led other men by promising them greater liberty and
better laws. Nothing is too good, too great, too sacred for
humanity--and, as part of humanity, woman as well as man demands
the best that governments have to offer. Honorable gentlemen have
spoke