gentlemen, — I
must be permitted to say that I have been almost overwhelmed by the
announcement of the sad event which has so recently occurred. I feel
incompetent to perform duties so important and responsible as those which have
been so unexpectedly thrown upon me. As to an indication of any policy which
may be pursued by me in the administration of the Government, I have to say,
that that must be left for development as the administration progresses. The
message or declaration must be made by the acts as they transpire. The only
assurance that I can now give of the future, is by reference to the past. The
course which I have taken in the past, in connection with this rebellion, must
be regarded as a guarantee of the future. My past public life, which has been
long and laborious, has been founded, as I in good conscience believe, upon a
great principle of right, which lies at the basis of all things. The best
energies of my life have been spent in endeavoring to establish and perpetuate
the principles of free government, and I believe that the Government, in
passing through its present trials, will settle down upon principles consonant
with popular rights more permanent and enduring than heretofore. I must be
permitted to say, if I understand the feelings of my own heart, I have long
labored to ameliorate and alleviate the condition of the great mass of the
American people. Toil, and an honest advocacy of the great principles of free
government, have been my lot. The duties have been mine — the consequences are
God's. This has been the foundation of my political creed. I feel that in the
end the Government will triumph, and that these great principles will be
permanently established.
In conclusion, gentlemen, let me say that I want your
encouragement and countenance. I shall ask and rely upon you and others in
carrying the Government through its present perils. I feel, in making this
request, that it will be heartily responded to by you, and all other patriots
and lovers of the rights and interests of a free people.
SOURCE: Frank Moore, Speeches
of Andrew Johnson, President of the United States, p. xlvii
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