Ph. Target and E. Villetard, Editors of the Sunday Courier
[Translation.]
Monsieur le Ministre: Abraham Lincoln has fallen a victim to the most execrable outrage at the moment when the re-establishment of the Union was assured, thanks to his own firmness, energetic patriotism, and moderation.
The Courrier du Demanche, among all the French journals, may boast of the honor of having been from the first day of the struggle, and without hesitation, the defender of the views for which Lincoln has lost his life; and we come to-day to express to you the profound grief which all my brother editors feel at the death of this great citizen.
It was not only to America but to the whole of humanity that he belonged. The blow which fell upon Lincoln has been felt by all those who in our old Europe believe in liberty, in law, and justice. It was but a few days ago, when the armies of the north entered Richmond, we felt, on thinking that the last rampart of slavery had fallen, all the joys of victory. We now ask of you, to-day, the right of taking part in your mourning.
Does America desire that marble shall transmit to future generations the memory of that good man, who steadfastly remained, in spite of the most fearful trials to which the head of a government could be exposed, the faithful servant of the laws. If your country will consecrate his glorious memory by a monument worthy of it, we should claim the honor of being foremost in this act of gratitude, as we have been the first to welcome the double election of this ever illustrious victim.
Receive, sir, the assurance of our profound respect.