The bill went to the President for approval on the 20th of February, leaving but a small margin of time for passage over his veto if as anticipated he should decline to sign it.

The decisive character of the measure had evoked fierce opposition, and this in turn had stimulated Republican advocacy to a degree of great earnestness.
On the 2d of March the President sent to the House, in which branch the bill had originated, a long veto message of very comprehensive character.

He had summed up all the arguments that had been made against the measure in both Houses, and he arrayed them with greater strength than when they were originally presented.

His argument against placing the States under military government was cogently stated.

"This bill," said he, "imposes martial law at once, and its operation will begin as soon as the general and his troops can be put in place.