George A. Smith

“ Notwithstanding this flat refusal before we had asked we conferred with many of the principal men of the nation—of all parties by whom it was generally conceded we had a constitutional right to admission, and that we had manifested that energy, perseverance and intelligence in exploring, settling, and subduing this country, which clearly proved that we were capable of self-government, and able to sustain ourselves as a State. We had organized a civilized community, framed a Constitution, republican in form, and unexceptionable in principle and called into order an efficient government. ”

“ The Constitution declares "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prevent the free exercise thereof." "No religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office of public trust under the United States." ”

“ Why, said he, no woman would ever consent to become a prostitute if she could have a husband, who would honour and protect her and maintain and educate her children; and under this new arrangement every woman could obtain such a husband and protector, and every house of assignation would be closed, and the gentlemen of the country undone. ”