Mechanics’ Mutual Aid Society of Brescia
[Translation]
The announcement of the death of President Abraham Lincoln, slain by the hand of an assassin, has impressed our society with sincere and honest sorrow. The sad news that justly caused consternation and grief in the hearts of all lovers of justice and liberty must deeply move the feelings of all industrial associations, as they have lost a person dear to humanity, a being who was the living incarnation of the principles of equality and fraternity, the embodiment of true patriotism, of honest intentions, of firmness, and integrity.
But if the death of Lincoln was a sad and serious event, like that of Christ, it may be the cause of the complete triumph of the humane and holy principle of true liberty, contended for by the great citizen, and which, in the generous American nation, does not depend upon one man, is bound to the life of no single individual, but will resurrect with more beauty and effulgence, and reflect its genial rays over Europe with beneficent effects.
With these sentiments, springing spontaneously from the hearts of the members of our association, we beg you, sir, to be their interpreter to Mr. Andrew Johnson, the worthy successor of Mr. Lincoln; and while we express our best wishes for the restoration of the American Union, and for the prosperity, happiness, and glory of its people, we ask you to accept the expressions of our greatest consideration and esteem.
[l. s.]
- VIRGILIO CHITO,
President. - ANDREA SALSECHI,,
- GIACOMO DRAGHI,,
- GIUSEPPE FOCCHINI,,
- D. BIANCHI,
Members. - FAUSTINO PALAZZI,
Secretary. - A. FRIGERIO.
The United States Minister.