Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the Second Session Thirty-eighth Congress, Part IV, Appendix to diplomatic correspondence of 1865; the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, late president of the United States of America, and the attempted assassination of William H. Seward, Secretary of State, and Frederick W. Seward, Assistant Secretary, on the evening of the 14th of April, 1865; expressions of condolence and sympathy inspired by these events

Municipal Council of Stratford-upon-Avon

We, the mayor, aldermen, and burgesses of the borough of Stratford-upon-Avon, in council assembled, having heard with feelings of indignation and profound sorrow of the cruel assassination of the President of the United States of America, express our heartfelt sympathy with the American government and people on this overpowering calamity. We feel deeply grieved at the distressing affliction and bereavement which has thereby fallen upon Mrs. Lincoln, and earnestly pray that she may be sustained in her sad trial, and that comfort and support may be afforded her and her family in this their hour of need.

The murderous attack upon Mr. Seward, the Secretary of State, and the frightful crimes of which his house was the scene, have also impressed us with the same feelings. May God in his mercy overrule all for the good and welfare of the American people, and may their future be one of peace and prosperity.

We respectfully request his excellency Mr. Adams, the American minister, to convey this expression of our sentiments to those whom it may concern.

Given under our common seal, the 3d day of May, in the year of our Lord 1865.

[seal.]