His selection of Mr.Schurz for the special duty was deemed significant, because at that period of a political career consistent only in the frequency and agility of its changes Mr.Schurz happened to take an extreme position on the Southern question--one that was in general harmony with the views entertained and avowed by Mr.Sumner.

Mr.Schurz, according to his own declaration, had communicated his "views to the President in frequent letters and conversations," and added an assurance, the truth of which all who know Mr.Schurz will readily concede--"I would not have accepted the mission had I not felt that whatever preconceived opinions I might carry with me to the South I should be ready to abandon or modify, as my perception of facts and circumstances might command their abandonment or modification." Mr.Schurz started on his mission in the early part of July, and was engaged in traveling, observing and taking copious notes until the middle of the ensuing autumn.

His report did not reach the President until the month of November.

In the intervening months Mr.Johnson had been essentially and rapidly changing his views,--growing more and more favorable to the Southern leaders, less and less in harmony with the Republican leaders.

He had gone far beyond the balancing-point of impartiality, where he stood when he was willing to intrust the task of Southern investigation to a man of the radical views which Mr.
Schurz then professed.