Washington, December 23, 1862.
Gentleman of the Cabinet A bill for an act entitled ``An Act for the admission of the State of `West-Virginia' into the Union, and for other purposes,'' has passed the House of Representatives, and the Senate, and has been duly presented to me for my action.
I respectfully ask of each [of] you, an opinion in writing, on the following questions, towit:
1st. Is the said Act constitutional?
2d. Is the said Act expedient?
Your Obt. Servt. ABRAHAM LINCOLN