Prescott journal. [volume] (Prescott, Wis.) 1861-1871, 1862-06-25

show the absurdity and utter Impractica-
bilitv Of tho whole scheme. But, to con-
clude this subject, l will simply suggest
that. in my Judgment, it will be much
more wise policy for the Government to
leave this question to be settled and adj
iustcd by commercial negotiations and
those laws of nature which regulate and
control the migration of the races of the
human family.
Mr.. Speaker, we must meet these ques-
tons. We cannot skulk them if we
would. The logic of events frequently
outstrips the calculations of tbs actors,
and results march on in advance of the
policy intended to modify their courses,
while we NAV bc lingering with stupid
gaze upon the trail ofpassing events, and
drabbliug the skirts Of our philosophy in
the wake of military and naval expedi-
tons. The question of slavery is SO
intimately connected with the rise and
progress Of this war, that it is every day
working out its own solution. Nothing
now can save it but tho early and un-
conditional submission of the rebels to the
constitution and laws. No matter how
gravely or hoarsely or shrilly we may
pirate of constitutional recognitlons and
guarantees, no power, no caution, no
orders of military chieflains, can save
slavery from extinction as fast as oar ar
mics advance upon rebel soil.
Sir, l trust and hope that the Admin.
istration SEQ the matter in this light, and
that they are prepared to institute the
necessary regulations to make the transl-
ton from slavery 10 freedom easy and
safe. This transition, resulting from the
advance Of the military or war power,
must of necessity be regulated in great
measure by that power. TO that end,
whatever legislation the Administration
desires, am willing to afford; any aid
necessary and in our power to give, so
far as | am concerned, shall be given
upon the very first suggestion. But let
not this Administration be unmindful of
the vast responsibilities which the Con-
stituticn of the country has devolved
upon them in these times of the nations
trials and dangers. Let them not think
that they can escape the mighty issues
which this rebellion has placed chiefly in
their hands. A confding people, with
their treasures in hand, are Fastening to
their eountry's altar. A Congress willing
to supply all necessary means are waiting
suggestions. History waits TO record her
judgment upon Executive conduct. Her
justice is inexorable; her sentences are not
always executed by posterity.
Mr.. Speaker, l have confidence in the
wisdom and patriotism of the Administra-
ton; | am wiling and anxious to hold
up their hands in every legitimite effort
to crush out this rebellion; but while !
would not in the slightest degree en-
croach upon their peculiar functions and
duties, l shall nevertheless insist upon the
full perrogative of this branch of the Gov
eminent. All the people ask of the
Administration is, that thew shall act up
to the full measure of their extraordinary
responsibilities, which the extraordinary
exigences of the nation have devoIved
upon them. That they yield neither to
local prejudices or interest on the one
hand, nor neglect the plain suggestions
afforded by current events on the other;
and that to save the loyalty of few
Shareholders the patriotic aspirations of
millions Of unconditional Union men be
not divided and crushed. -