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

Municipal Council of Musselburgh

Hon. Charles Francis Adams,
Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America:

May it please your excellency: We, the provost, magistrates and members of council of the burgh of Musselburgh, in Scotland, participating as we do in the feeling of distress universally existing in this nation on account of the atrocious crime which has been committed in the country which you represent, by the assassination of its Chief Magistrate, grievously aggravated by its being perpetrated on one of such commanding talents and estimable qualities as President Lincoln unquestionably possessed, deeply sympathize with the great people of whom he was the head, and especially with the lady who has by this foul deed been so unexpectedly and sadly rendered a widow, as well as with the family who have been deprived of their honored parent.

We embrace also this opportunity to express our regards towards your excellency, and remain yours, very faithfully,

GEORGE LAURIE,

Provost and Chief Magistrate.

Signed in name and on behalf of the town council of the burgh of Mussel-burgh, and the seal of the burgh affixed, upon this 11th day of May, 1865.

[seal.]

• GEORGE LAURIE,
  Provost and Chief Magistrate of Musselburgh.
• THOS. LEES, Town Clerk.