Friends of the Country Lodge, May 24, 1865

Friends of the Country Lodge

Sir: The Sovereign Chapter of the Friends of the Country, in the valley of Paris, expresses its cordial sympathy with the American people, and participates in the numerous manifestations of sorrow which have come from all parts of the world on account of the event that deprived them of their Chief Magistrate.

Immortal homage to the large heart that has inscribed the principle of human liberty upon the Constitution of the country by the abolition of slavery, Glory to our brother, Lincoln, who practiced the virtues inculcated by our order, and whom masonry is proud to number among the number of her children.

Please send our tribute of respectful sorrow to the President of the American Union and to the family of the illustrious deceased.

Accept the assurance of our most distinguished consideration.