Autograph Note Signed. 1 p., 8 1/4 x 4 1/4 in. Complete TranscriptIn the debate in the C. [Congressional] Globe, you will see that the great Statesman and true patriot, Hon. Thadeus [sic] Stevens said "The propositions fall short of my wishes, but they fulfill my hopes." &c. I am very busy in my judicial duties, or would write you more fully. S.N.Historical BackgroundStephen Neal (1817-1905) was an Indiana lawyer. He served in the state legislature and was later a judge. In 1866, he drafted what would become the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Legend has it that he presented it his friend, Indiana Congressman Godlove S. Orth, and that Congress passed the draft as Neal had written it. This is unlikely; Ohio Congressman John Bingham is usually given credit as the amendment's principal author, to say nothing of Congressional machinations that make passage of anything without revision nearly impossible.Neal is actually summarizing Stevens's arguments in the House of Representatives:"When I say that we should rejoice at such completion [of the amendment], I do not thereby intend so much to express joy at the superior excellence of the scheme, as that there is to be a scheme-a scheme containing much positive good, as well, I am bound to admit, as the omission of many better things.""Do you inquire why, holding these views and possessing some will of my own, I accept so imperfect a proposition? I answer, because I live among men and not among angels; among men as intelligent, as determined, and as independent as myself, who, not agreeing with me, do not choose to yield their opinions to mine. Mutual concession, therefore, is our only resort, or mutual hostilities. We might well have been justified in making renewed and more strenuous efforts for a better plan could we have had the coöperation of the Executive.""A few words will suffice to explain the changes made by the Senate in the proposition which we sent to them.""You perceive that while I see much good in the proposition I do not pretend to be satisfied with it. And yet I am anxious for its speedy adoption, for I dread delay. The danger is that before any Constitutional guards shall have been adopted Congress will be flooded by rebels and rebel sympathizers.Hence, I say, let us no longer delay; take what we can get now, and hope for better things in further legislation; in enabling acts or other provisions."From the Congressional Globe, June 13, 1866, p. 3148. Seller Inventory # 23151

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Bibliographic Details

Title: The Drafter of the 14th Amendment Quotes ...

Publication Date: 1905

Binding: No binding

Condition: Fine

Book Type: Autograph Note Signed

Store Description

About the Seller Since 1988, I have been the largest buyer of important content American historic documents. Thousands of documents I have handled are in museum collections, including the Emancipation Proclamation and 13th Amendments acquired for the Lincoln Museum of Fort Wayne, Indiana, now on display in the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. I am a member of the Board of Trustees of the Manuscript Society, and a member of the ABAA. References are available upon request. Starting Your Own Collection We have the expertise necessary to acquire individual items, or build a personalized collection for you. We can inspire you by creating a unique link to the historical figures, events or ideas that inspire you. Seth Kaller Inc. can handle or coordinate each aspect of the process such as: Pre-acquisition research, Physical inspection and purchasing, Auction representation, Authentication, Inventory and accounting reports, Conservation, Framing and display, and Collection management. Museum Quality\Private Ownership Most people know that markets exist for Impressionist paintings, fine English antiques, or rare coins. However, the field of historic documents has long been quietly dominated by a select few: J.P. Morgan, Henry Huntington, Malcolm Forbes. This is changing as more collectors discover the satisfaction of a personal, unique connection with history. Achieve Immortality! Become associated with your favorite museum, library, university or historical society. Important properties can be loaned for exhibition, placed on deposit or donated outright, to insure their survival for generations to come. We can handle all the arrangements for you, including working with tax attorneys and accountants, and coordinating insurance, transit, and proper acknowledgment.

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Seth Kaller Inc.
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