US Presidency
1892

My special message was intended to call the attention of Congress to the subject, and in view of the fact that it is conceded that the appropriation proceeded upon a false basis as to the amount of lands to be paid for and is by $ 50,000 in excess of the amount they are entitled to ( even if their claim to the land is given full recognition at the rate agreed upon ), I have not felt willing to approve the deed, and shall not do so, at least until both Houses of Congress have acted upon the subject. It has been informally proposed by the claimants to release this sum of $ 50,000, but I have no power to demand or accept such a release, and such an agreement would be without consideration and void.