Henry S. Sanford to Monsieur le Chanoine de Hearne, Representant du people, April 30, 1865

Mr. Sanford to M. le Chanoine

Cher Monsieur le Chanoine: I cannot allow the words you uttered in the House of Representatives yesterday, in the reprobation of the last infamous act of an expiring rebellion, and of sympathy for the cause of the United States, to pass without writing to thank you for them. I have known you too long as one of the most ardent and best-informed defenders of the cause of right, justice, and liberty, against this atrocious attempt to overthrow free institutions in America for the benefit of slavery, not to be certain that your voice would be raised on such an occasion, and that your words would find echo not only in the chambers, but in the country. Certainly, as you say in your speech, if there is any nation which ought to associate itself with our mourning in these circumstances, it is Belgium, whose institutions have been in so large part formed upon our own; and I am happy to testify to you, as one of the originators of this expression of horror, regret, and sympathy by the House, the satisfaction it has given me, and which I know will be shared by all loyal people in my country; and I pray you at the same time to accept the assurance of my cordial regard.