Fallen Scepter

What does the Joint Resolution mean?
In my memory, it goes something like this.
Whereas, the United States has violated the Laws of Nations
which relate to State in Amity,
Therefore be it resolved,
that the Executive of this State is empowered
to make such disposition of the armed force as he may see fit.
This has to be the premier example of an open-ended law.
Note this is the last legal act recorded by this legislature.
It looks to me like a tunnel.
It looks like a channel into the underground,
into which the Ship of State may be towed intact
until the weather turns better.
It gives carte blanche for clandestine military operations against the agressor.
It's about all the legal authorization any guerilla ever had, more than most.
Granted, there are other ways to read those words.
But that's pretty much what it says.
It names the enemy, indicted as lawbreaker,
and authorizes the use of armed force.
Pick me up, the scepter said.
I am the symbol of the right of sovereignty.
Your side will suffer less from morale attrition
with the Staff of State in your regalia.
Pick me up.

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Whither?

rev 980309