Mr. HILL. I cannot yield further, but will resume the floor. As I came in after a temporary absence from the Hall, the Gentfrom NewYork [Mr. DoDGE] was occupying the floor and having some correspondence read by the Clerk. From all that I have been able to learn, I gather that the only reason for now terminating the existing relations between this Government and Rome, the only ground upon which it is sought to terminate those relations, is on account of some religious difficulties. It seems to me that as I new ground upon which to take action of this character in relation to any foreign nation. Each nation, of course, regulates all these matters of religion for itself. Whether or not there are sufficient grounds for terminating the existing relations between this Government and Rome, or abolishing the office of minister at Rome, it seems to me that it is improper to do it upon the ground which has been assigned here and in. indirect way. The complaint is that a certain church has not been permitted to exercise its ordinary religious worship within the city of Rome. Now, I am in favor of the utmost freedom of religious worship, but I do insist that it is not in accordance with the principles, theory, or practice of this Government hitherto to interfere in this indirect way any more than to interfere more directly with the religious prac tices of another Government. If Rome has in any way violated the rights of American citizens, or has committed any indignity upon American citizens, then inflict the proper punishment upon her for her act. But if it is only a regulation of religious worship which she has established, and to which all are alike subject, I insist that it is not in accordance with our principles or our practice to take any action upon the subject; therefore I must oppose the amendment at least upon the ground upon which it is placed here. If it is to be placed upon some other ground, if, as suggested by the Gentfrom Ver mont, [Mr. MoRRILL, there is no occasion for a minister at Rome, and a consul will do as well, then let our action be based upon that ground, so that no erroneous imPression in regard to the matter will go abroad.