In entering upon the discussion of the Articles of Impeachment, I
confess my regret that so great a cause, on which so much depends,
should be presented on such narrow ground, although I cannot doubt that
the whole past must be taken into consideration in determining the
character of the acts alleged. If there has been a violation of law
and Constitution, the apologists of the President then insist that all
was done with good intentions. Here it is enough, if we point to the
past, which thus becomes part of the case. But of this hereafter. It
is unnecessary for me to take time in setting forth the Articles. The
abstract is enough. They will naturally come under review before the
close of the inquiry.
Of the transactions embraced by the Articles, the removal of Mr.
Stanton has unquestionably attracted most attention, although I
cannot doubt that the scandalous harangues are as justly worthy
of condemnation. But the former has been made the pivot of the
impeachment,--so much so that the whole case seems to revolve on this
transaction. Therefore I shall not err, if, following the Articles, I
put this foremost.
This transaction may be brought to the touchstone of the National
Constitution, and also of the Tenure-of-Office Act. But since the
allegation of violation of this Act has been so conspicuous, and this
Act may be regarded as a Congressional interpretation of the power of
removals under the National Constitution, I begin with the questions
arising under it.