[197] have the impression that the senator cannot debate--Mr. Sumner. The distinction is this--
Mr. Gwin. I insist upon the application of the decision of the Chair.
Mr. Mason (of Virginia). Mr. President, there is one rule of order that in undoubted,--that, when the Chair is stating a question of order, he must not be interrupted by a senator. There is no question about that rule of order.
The Presiding Officer. The senator did not interrupt the Chair.
Mr. Sumner. The Chair does me justice, in response to the injustice of the senator from Virginia.
The Presiding Officer. Order! order!
Mr. Mason. The senator is doing that very thing at this moment. I am endeavoring to sustain the authority of the Chair, which certainly has been violated.
The Presiding Officer. It is the opinion of the Chair that the debate is out of order. I am not precisely informed of what the rule is; but such is my clear impression.
Mr. Walker (of Wisconsin). If the senator from Massachusetts will allow me, I will say a word here.
Mr. Sumner. Certainly.
