“The States would have to pass upon it before it became an Amendment,” said Mrs. Wiley. “Would it not be a State matter then?”
“Yes,” the President interrupted, “but by a very different process, for by that process it would be forced upon the minority; they would have to accept it.”
“They could reject it if they wished to,” said Mrs. Dorr. “Three-fourths of the States would have to pass it.”
“Yes,” the President said, with distinct annoyance, “but the other fourth could not reject it.”
“Mr. President,” said Mrs. Dorr, “don’t you think that when the Constitution was framed it was agreed that when three-fourths of the States wanted a reform, the other fourth should accept it also?”
The President was plainly disconcerted. He stepped back.
“I cannot say,” he replied frigidly, “what was agreed upon. I can only say that I have tried to answer your question, and I do not think it is quite proper that I submit myself to cross-examination.”
“Very well,” Mrs. Dorr said quietly. “We will not cross-examine you further.”
“Thank you, Mr. President,” said Mrs. Wiley, “for your courtesy in receiving us.”
The President bowed. “I am very much obliged to you,” he said. “It has been a very pleasant occasion.”