More than six years having elapsed since the last hostile gun was fired between the armies then arrayed against each other—­one for the perpetuation, the other for the destruction, of the Union—­it may well be considered whether it is not now time that the disabilities imposed by the fourteenth amendment should be removed.  That amendment does not exclude the ballot, but only imposes the disability to hold offices upon certain classes.  When the purity of the ballot is secure, majorities are sure to elect officers reflecting the views of the majority.  I do not see the advantage or propriety of excluding men from office merely because they were before the rebellion of standing and character sufficient to be elected to positions requiring them to take oaths to support the Constitution, and admitting to eligibility those entertaining precisely the same views, but of less standing in their communities.  It may be said that the former violated an oath, while the latter did not; the latter did not have it in their power to do so.  If they had taken this oath, it can not be doubted they would have broken it as did the former class.  If there are any great criminals, distinguished above all others for the part they took in opposition to the Government, they might, in the judgment of Congress, be excluded from such an amnesty.

This subject is submitted for your careful consideration.

The condition of the Southern States is, unhappily, not such as all true patriotic citizens would like to see.  Social ostracism for opinion’s sake, personal violence or threats toward persons entertaining political views opposed to those entertained by the majority of the old citizens, prevents immigration and the flow of much-needed capital into the States lately in rebellion.  It will be a happy condition of the country when the old citizens of these States will take an interest in public affairs, promulgate ideas honestly entertained, vote for men representing their views, and tolerate the same freedom of expression and ballot in those entertaining different political convictions.

Under the provisions of the act of Congress approved February 21, 1871, a Territorial government was organized in the District of Columbia.  Its results have thus far fully realized the expectations of its advocates.  Under the direction of the Territorial officers, a system of improvements has been inaugurated by means of which Washington is rapidly becoming a city worthy of the nation’s capital.  The citizens of the District having voluntarily taxed themselves to a large amount for the purpose of contributing to the adornment of the seat of Government, I recommend liberal appropriations on the part of Congress, in order that the Government may bear its just share of the expense of carrying out a judicious system of improvements.