Mr. Blaine to Marquis Imperiali.
Washington, April 12, 1892.
Sir: I congratulate you that the difficulty existing between the United States and Italy growing out of the lamentable massacre at New Orleans in March of last year is about to be terminated. The President, feeling that for such an injury there should be ample indemnity, instructs me to tender you 125000 francs. The Italian Government will distribute this sum among the families of the victims.
[Page 728]While the injury was not inflicted directly by the United States, the President nevertheless feels that it is the solemn duty, as well as the great pleasure, of the National Government to pay a satisfactory indemnity. Moreover, the President’s instructions carry with them the hope that the transaction of today may efface all memory of the unhappy tragedy; that the old and friendly relations of the United States and Italy may be restored; and that nothing untoward may ever again occur to disturb their harmonious friendship.
I avail myself of this occasion to assure you that your prolonged service at this capital as charge des affaires has been marked by every quality that renders you grateful and acceptable to the Government of the United States, and to renew to you the assurance of my high consideration.