Speech #440038426

I understand has been decidedmore than once by the Supreme Court of the United States. to the effect that. although a treaty is the supreme law of the land vet an act of Congress passed subsequently to the date when the treaty went into operation will. so far as it conflicts with the lirovisions of the treaty. abrogate it or suspend its functions. Whatever may be our power in this respectand I concede that. if we have the power. it is one that should be approached with care and with great cautionit is certainthat we have the power to appeal to the Executive of the nation. and ask of him and of our Secretary of State to enter into negotiations with the Chinese government looking to a reforniation of the treaty. and this. in my judgment. after all. is the real remedy that ought to be applied in this case. While I have said that I would approach with extrenme caution any legislation by Congress upon this subject that would come in conflict with any existing treaty stipulation. still I will say that. if it is apparent to the country that the civilization of our land is in jeopardy. that our institutions are in imminent danger from this species of immigration. and you cannot reach it in any other way. then I would apply the remedy. desperate as it is. although it shake the cmpire to its foundations. I hope then. Mr.