Mr. Adams to Mr. Hunter.
London, May 4, 1865.
No. 943.]
Sir: The death of the President and the fearful circumstances under which it was brought about have occupied the public mind, all over this kingdom, almost exclusively during the past week.
At the desire of the Americans residing in this city, I called a public meeting of all such as might happen to be here, for Monday last. It was very well attended. I have the honor to transmit a copy of the proceedings.
I have the honor to transmit a number of addresses, resolutions, or other form of public action, taken by various corporate bodies in England, Scotland, and Ireland on this subject, and forwarded to me down to this time, according to the list which is attached to this despatch.
As a further evidence of the extent of the public feeling, I transmit a considerable number of newspapers from different parts of the kingdom which have been sent to me as containing comments upon the late calamity.
A very large number of persons have called at this legation, including most of the members of the corps diplomatique, in token of their sentiments on this occasion. The labor devolved upon the members of it in acknowledging all these demonstrations is not small. It will also become a serious question to decide upon the most suitable mode of responding to them. On mature reflection, I should rather recommend one brief, comprehensive communication, which I might be authorized to print, in some form or other, and send to the respective parties concerned.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Hon. William Hunter,
Acting Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.