51
WRITINGS OF SAM HOUSTON, 1858
subject of citizenship in the recent case from Missouri, that has produced so much excitement, had only embraced this prin- ciple when ·it was fairly brought within the scope of their juris- diction, they would have conferred an essential benefit on the country. They would have guarded us against evils that may possibly hereafter result. May not such a case as this arise? May not persons in Canada cross the border into our States, reside for the time required preceding the election for President of the United States, and determine the destinies of this coun- try at some future day? It might be a matter of interest to foreign Powers to thrust them in upon us in that way. Those persons who can vote in a State for the most numerous branch of its Legislature, have a right to vote for presidential electors; and thus a State may impose upon the Federal Government aliens as voters, in the face of the Constitutional authority of Congress to pass Federal naturalization laws. I do not consider this feature of the Minnesota constitution republican in char- acter, and it is within the province of Congress so to decide. But, sir, I have not heard the first argument yet, unless it was founded on speculation, and the probable population of Minnesota, brought forward in support of the extraordinary measure now proposed. I presume, however, it will be adopted, and if it be adopted, the consequences may not be realized to-day, or in a few years, but in half a century the effects of this loose legislation, in disregard of constitutional principles, this cater- ing to conveniences, or to influences which ought not to govern in this body, or at the other end of the Capitol, will be felt. I mean to vote for such amendments as will do ample justice to Minnesota, and at the same time discourage every encroach- ment upon Federal power and Federal right. I am not going to bolster it up by any adventitious means, nor am I going to cater to States, because it is a complaisant thing, and because they possibly may have a great many more peopie than are enumerated. We must go upon certainty in laws and constitu- tions. If we undertake to act upon speculations, or conclusions made under various influences, not dishonorable, of course, to the gentlemen who make them, we are on the eve of setting an example that will not redound to the peace, the harmony, or the perpetuity of this country or its institutions. [Mr. Brown and Mr. Pugh speak.] Mr. Houston. The Senator's word would be amply sufficient to satisfy me of the fact, and my mind now has to labor under the melancholy conviction that t}:lat court is not so infallible as
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