Mr. Porter to Mr.
Hay.
Embassy
of the United States,
Paris, August 28,
1900.
No. 725.]
Sir: The loss of the French torpedo-boat
destroyer Framée, which on the 12th instant went
down a few moments after its collision with the battle ship Brennus, was considered as the most serious
misfortune which has befallen the French navy for many years. The vessel
was quite new and carried a crew of 54, out of which only 12 escaped.
The diplomatic representatives of the leading powers expressed their
sympathy to the French Government, and on my return to Paris, after an
absence of twenty-four hours, I hastened to take the same course. I
inclose herewith copy of my note to Mr. Delcassé, and of his reply.
I have, etc.,
[Inclosure 1.]
Mr. Porter to
Mr. Delcassé.
Embassy of the United States,
Paris, August 15, 1900.
Mr. Minister: Having just returned to Paris
after a short absence, I hasten to transmit to your excellency the
condolence of my Government on the occasion of the loss of La Frameé. This unlooked-for catastrophe,
which has thrown into mourning the families of so many brave
sailors, has moved all those who have a deep interest in France; and
my Government, as well as myself and all the members of my embassy,
have shared in this sorrow. I beg that you, Mr. Minister, will be
good enough to convey the expression of this feeling to the
President of the Republic, as well as to the minister of the marine,
and to accept on this occasion the expression of the high
consideration with which I have the honor to be, etc.,
[Inclosure 2.]
Mr. Delcassé to
Mr. Porter
[Translation.]
Mr. Ambassador: On the 15th of this month
your excellency was good enough to transmit to me the condolences of
your Government, together with your own, on the occasion of the loss
of the French war ship La Framée.
I have not failed to inform the President of the Republic concerning
the action taken by your excellency, whereby he has shown himself to
be much touched.
My colleague, the minister of the marine, and myself, appreciate it
deeply, and, relying on the habitual kindness of your excellency, I
venture to request that you will be good enough to inform your
Government of the sincere thanks of the Government of the French
Republic.
I have also the honor to particularly thank your excellency for the
very cordial terms in which you have deemed proper to fulfill the
mission which has been confided to you.
Accept, etc.,
