An Additional Resolution to The Crittenden Compromise, Offered by Senator John J. Crittenden, January 3, 1861

Whereas, The Union is in danger, and, owing to the unhappy divisions existing in Congress, it would be difficult, if not impossible, for that body to concur in both its branches by the requisite majority, so as to enable it either to adopt such measures of legislation, or to recommend to the states such amendments to the Constitution, as are deemed necessary and proper to avert that danger; and

Whereas, In so great an emergency, the opinion and judgment of the people ought to be heard, and would be the best and surest guide to their representatives; therefore,

Resolved, That provision ought to be made by law, without delay, for taking the sense of the people and submitting to their vote the following resolutions (above quoted as "V") as the basis for the final and permanent settlement of those disputes that now disturb the peace of the country and threaten the existence of the Union.

SOURCES: George Ticknor Curtis, Constitutional History of the United States from Their Declaration of Independence to the Close of Their Civil War, Volume 2 , p. 528