The Speaker declared the rule for reading imperative, and Mr. Alston withdrew his motion; on which the Clerk proceeded in the reading, which was continued for more than an hour.
Wednesday, December 29.
Case of John P. Van Ness.
Mr. Davis called up his resolution instructing the Committee of Elections to inquire whether Mr. Van Ness had not forfeited his seat, by accepting the appointment of Major in the Militia of the Territory of Columbia.
Mr. Van Ness said that, so far as the decision of the House might affect him personally, he felt little concern; but, so far as it affected him as a representative of an important State, he was not so indifferent. He had no objection whatever to the proposed inquiry being made. As it involved the decision of an important principle, it deserved great attention. He had no doubt of the inquiry being made with that candor and fairness which, in most cases, characterized the proceedings of the House. He was far from imputing any impure motives to the mover or seconder of the resolution. It would be as derogatory to him to impute, as in them to entertain, any views dishonorable or base. He had risen barely to state his wish that an inquiry might be made.
Mr. Elmendorph proposed a verbal amendment, which was not agreed to.
The resolution was then adopted without a division.
Wednesday, January 5, 1803.
Cession of Louisiana to France.
Mr. Griswold called up his resolution respecting Louisiana, laid on the table yesterday, as follows: