No. 615.
Mr. Blaine
to Mr. Foster.
Washington, March 17, 1881.
Sir: I telegraphed you on the 15th instant as follows:
The Senate of the United States, by a unanimous vote, has passed the subjoined resolutions which you will communicate to the minister of foreign affairs:
“resolution.
“Whereas the Senate of the United States of America, now convened in special session, has been informed of the death, by unlawful and inhuman violence, of His Majesty the Emperor Alexander II of Russia.
“Resolved, That the Senate unites its voice with that of all civilized people in denouncing assassination as a means of redress for any grievances, either real or imaginary.
“2. That, remembering and cherishing with satisfaction the relations of genuine [Page 1011] friendship that have always existed between the people and the Governments of Russia and of the United States, to the strengthening and maintenance of which the late Emperor has earnestly contributed his great influence, the Senate extends to the government and people of Russia its sincere, condolence in this sad national bereavement.
“Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate deliver a copy of these resolutions to the President of the United States, with the request that he communicate the same to the Russian Government.”
Adding that I have hastened also to place His Majesty’s minister here in possession of a copy of these resolutions of the Senate, and to express to him the gratification felt by this government with their firmness and their just and high spirit.
I am, &c.,