Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow
Sir: Referring to my despatch of the 17th instant, No. 202, in regard to the replies to be made to the expressions of condolence and sympathy on the part of associations and individuals in France with the government and people of the United States, which have been called forth by the assassination of our late President, I will thank you to convey to the proper party, in each case, in which the communication has been addressed to or intended for the President, this government, this department, or the people at large, the grateful acknowledgments of the government and people of the United States for the neighborly and fraternal spirit thus evinced, in such terms as your judgment may suggest. It is, however, considered that, out of proper deference to the government of France, you should submit a copy of your proposed reply to the minister for foreign affairs, and obtain his sanction to the proceeding before sending it out.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
John Bigelow, Esq.,&c., &c., &c.