Mr. Bruno to Mr. Hunter
[Translation.]
New York , April 17, 1865.
Sir: Your note of the 15th instant brings me sad confirmation of the horrid crime that ended the days of President Lincoln, and news of the atrocious attempt to assassinate Mr. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, and Mr. Frederick Seward, assistant secretary.
These unfortunate events, which have thrown the whole United States into consternation and mourning, will everywhere excite the same wail of sorrow and condemnation.
I trace these lines with a wounded heart, and I can judge by my own feelings how his Excellency the President of Hayti and his people will be affected by the calamity of the 14th of April.
You will oblige me greatly by having the enclosed documents transmitted to their destination, and at the same time I beg you to express to the family of the late President, and of the Secretary of State, my profound sympathy for them in their deep affliction.
You inform me that Mr. Andrew Johnson, the Vice-President, has formally assumed the functions of President, in conformity with the Constitution of the United States, and that you are authorized by him to fulfil the duties of Secretary of State till further orders.
In expressing my wishes that Providence may watch over the American Union and its new chief, and restore Mr. William H. Seward and Mr. Frederick Seward to perfect health, I beg you to accept the assurance of the respectful consideration with which I have the honor to be ever your most obedient and humble servant,
Secretary and Acting Chargé of the Haytien Legation
near the Government of the United States.
Hon. William Hunter,
Acting Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.