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

Workingmen’s Union of Catania

[Translation.]

Catania, May 11, 1865.

The Workingmen’s Union of Catania, Sicily, to the American people.

Brothers of America: The capture of Richmond was the triumph of civilization over barbarism, and we rejoice at the restoration of peace in a great nation that is our friend.

But the news of Mr. Lincoln’s assassination has sent a thrill of horror and indignation through the civilized world, and its echo has penetrated deeply into our hearts.

Americans: The Workingmen’s Union, of Catania, joins this day in the sentiments of sorrow felt for you by all free people. Accept our congratulations, our best wishes, and our fervent hopes that the national will may complete the work of peace begun by a great citizen, to restore to America her former splendor and great prosperity.

• MARCELLINO PIZZARELLT, President,
• FRANCESCORE RANCORE, Vice-President,
• SEBASTIANO VILLANI, Second Vice-President, Committee.

A true copy:

MARIO TROFEO,

Secretary.