A Remoir of S.s. Prentiss (Volume 1) - Softcover

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1899. Excerpt: ... SPEECH. 165 CHAPTER XI. Speech on the Mississippi Contested Election. We gire in this chapter the larger portion of Mr. Prentiss' first speech on claiming his seat. Aside from the importance of the principles discussed, it is entitled to a place here as one of the very few remains of his argumentative power. The reader will, probably, admit that it does no discredit to this feature of his eloquence. Mr. Speaeer:--As an individual, I thank the House for the courtesy which has been extended to me. On behalf of the State of Mississippi, I acknowledge the somewhat tardy justice which has at length permitted her to be heard upon the question of her right to choose her own representation on this floor. The first use I shall make of the privilege accorded to me will be to set the House right as to the attitude of the question, for I perceive that many members labor under a misapprehension on this point, and I am anxious that the position I occupy in the matter should be distinctly understood. I hnve petitioned this House for nothing; neither have I memorialized it. I have presented myself here as a Representative from the sovereign State of Mississippi to the Congress of the United States, and claim a «eat on this floor, not as a matter of fator, but as a matter of right. I produced my credentials, properly authenticated, showing my due election, according to the laws of that State, and demanded lo be sworn. No one objected to the legality of the election; no one questioned my qualification or the correctness of the returns; neither was there any doubt as to the authenticity of the credentials. The State of Mississippi, it was admitted on ail hands, had, through her highest organs, and in accordance with the provisions of her Constitution and laws, solemnly...