It is a deplorable fact that political crimes and
murders have been committed in Louisiana which have gone unpunished,
and which have been justified or apologized for, which must rest as a
reproach upon the State and country long after the present generation
has passed away.
I have no desire to have United States troops interfere in the domestic
concerns of Louisiana or any other State.
On the 9th of December last Governor Kellogg telegraphed to me his
apprehensions that the White League intended to make another attack upon
the statehouse, to which, on the same day, I made the following answer,
since which no communication has been sent to him:
Your dispatch of this date just received. It is exceedingly unpalatable
to use troops in anticipation of danger. Let the State authorities be
right, and then proceed with their duties without apprehension of
danger. If they are then molested, the question will be determined
whether the United States is able to maintain law and order within its
limits or not.
I have deplored the necessity which seemed to make it my duty under the
Constitution and laws to direct such interference. I have always refused
except where it seemed to be my imperative duty to act in such a manner
under the Constitution and laws of the United States.
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