The rejoicing over the result of the elections throughout the free States had scarcely died away when the Thirty-ninth Congress met in its second session (December 3, 1866).

There was no little curiosity to hear what the President would say in his message, in regard to the issue upon which he had sustained so conclusive a defeat.

He was known to be in a state of great indignation, and as he had broken forth during the campaign in expressions altogether unbecoming his place, there was some apprehension that he might be guilty of the same indiscretion in his official communication to Congress.

But he was saved from such humiliation by the evident interposition of a judicious adviser.

The message was strikingly moderate and even conciliatory in tone.