[196] Mr. Sumner. I shall not occupy much time, nor shall I debate the bill. Some time ago, Mr. President, after the presentation of the memorial from Boston, signed by twenty-nine hundred citizens, without distinction of party, I gave notice that I should, at a day hereafter, ask leave to introduce a bill for the repeal of the Fugitive-Slave Act. Desirous, however, not to proceed prematurely, I awaited the action of the Committee on the Judiciary, to which the memorial, and others of a similar character, were referred. At length an adverse report was made, and accepted by the Senate. From the time of that report down to this moment, I have sought an opportunity to introduce this bill. Now, at last, I have it. At a former session, sir, in introducing a similar proposition, I considered it at length, in an argument which I fearlessly assert-- Mr. Gwin (of California). I rise to a point of order. Has the senator a right to debate the question, or say any thing on it, until leave be granted? The Presiding Officer. My impression is that the question is not debatable. Mr. Sumner. I propose simply to explain my bill,--to make a statement, not an argument. Mr. Gwin. I make the point of order. The Presiding Officer. I am not aware precisely what the rule of order on the subject is; but I
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