I was saying that I held nearly all positions, from alderman, through both branches of Congress, to that which I now occupy; and who is there that will say Andrew Johnson ever made a pledge that he did not redeem or made a promise that he did not fulfill ?" Some one had spoken in Congress about the Presidential obstacle to be gotten out of the way.

Mr.Johnson interpreted this as meaning personal violence to himself.

"I make use," said he, "of a very strong expression when I say that I have no doubt the intention was to incite assassination and so get out of the way the obstacle to place and power.

Whether by assassination or not, there are individuals in this Government, I doubt not, who want to destroy our institutions and change the character of the Government.

Are they not satisfied with the blood which has been shed?
Does not the murder of Lincoln appease the vengeance and wrath of the opponents of this Government?
Are they still unslaked?
Do they still want more blood?
I am not afraid of the assassin attacking me where a brave and courageous man would attack another.