George G. Fogg to William H. Seward, April 14, 1865

Mr. Fogg to Mr. Seward

Sir: At the request of a large number of the persons interested, I forward to you the enclosed letter from Professor J. Koronikolski to the President of the United States, in behalf of the Polish refugees now temporarily in Switzerland. The total number of these unfortunate men now within the limits of the Swiss Confederation is, I am told, about five hundred, mostly young men, and in many cases belonging to the best families in Poland. Having been engaged in the late unfortunate insurrection, they are unable to return to their native land, and are desirous to go to America.

Professor Koronikolski, whose letter I herewith forward, is the agent of these refugees, and is, I am assured, an honorable, patriotic and trustworthy man, and posseses the confidence of the federal council, who, as you will see by copy of a note addressed to him, (marked A,) takes a warm interest in the aspirations of these Poles to reach America.

Of course I have not felt at liberty to give any assurances of the government aid asked for in the enclosed letter, but 1 have assured them of the warm sympathy both of our government and people towards their brave and unfortunate nation.

Enclosed I send you, marked B, a copy of my note acknowledging reception of Professor K.’s letter to the President.

With the highest respects, your obedient servant,