The Potter journal. [volume] (Coudersport, Pa.) 1857-1872, 1865-12-19
Our Washington Correspondence
WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 1865

" ASH1NGION, DCC. - 4OOOs
There most undoubtedly has been a
generally diFused, and we'll defined anxi-
ETY. growing deeper and more intense as
the time approached when the 39th Con.
gress was to assemble.
That such feeling should exist was
no more than natural; assembling, as it
does, at a most critical period Of our Ma
tional history, the present Congress finds
itself under responsibilities second only
to those assumed by the fearless spirits of
'76, whom by Declaration they severed
their connection with the mother country
Through the darkness comes the clear
notes of Mr.. Stevens voice, announcing a
resolution to refer, withom debate, to a
Joint committee of fifteen, that difficult
problem of reconstruction, the re-admls-
sion of members elect from the late rebel
lious States.
That committee, if raised, will be cho-
sen from among the wisest and best of
our statesmen; and will probably deal
with our Southern chrysalts in such a
manner that it shall come forth creature
of light and beauty, and not hairy worm.
This resolution, if adopted be the Sen
ate, as it has been by the House, will
prevent, or direct into other channels, an
endless amount of "ferce debate" Mem.
bcrs who desire to indulge in exciting
discussion, to intensity the existing ex-
element, stir up strife between the Sec
tions, and ''fre anew the Southern heart"
will be compelled to wait until there is a
emotion before the House" As the
committee have leave to "report by bill or
otherwise, at any time" it will probably
bring forth carefully prepared, vel! con-
sidered plan of restoration, that will need
very little discussion, meet the wants of
the country and the appreciation of all
right minded meu. The effect will be to
avoid the undue excitement attendan.
upon public debate, to transfer this vital
topic to the privacy of the Committee
room, there to be calmly, dispassionately
considered
The temper of Congress toward those
lately in rebellion, judging by the indica-
tions of the past few days, is leaient but
firm. There is no disposition to keep
gentlemen sou. in the cold )" but "sub-
stautial guarantees" will be required.
To admit those who could not or would
not take the test oath, would be worse
than useless. Such men would have no
influence in Congress, or with the Ad-
ministartion, aud would be positive dam
age to those constituencies, whose many
wants, require that they should be repre-
sented by the abTest and best men they
have. Congress is there. The terms OF
admission are perfectly plain. Those who
will come up to the crack" may do SO
but the rack will not be removed to them
The message of the President is, in all
an aole state paper, and worthy
of It's distinguished author. 1t is earnest
aud manly 10 its tone, and grapples with
the difficult questions with which it has
to do, with characteristic fearlessness. In
the whole document there is, in our judg
nent, one single weak point, and that is
what is said son the propriety of making
freedmen electors by proclamation of the
Executive" :" quote from the message.
Moreover a concession of the elective
franchise to the freedmen by act of the
President Of the United States "a ust have
oeeu extended TO all eolofed men vhcr.