Henry S. Sanford to William Hunter, May 31, 1865
Mr. Sanford to Mr. Hunter
Sir: I enclose a copy of a letter of condolence on the occasion of the assassination of President Lincoln from the Septentrion Lodge of Masons, of Ghent, and translation of my reply.
I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant,
Hon. William Hunter, Acting Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.
(For enclosure see Appendix, separate volume.)
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Sir: I have received the letter which you addressed me on the 20th instant, informing me of the regrets and sympathies of the Septentrion Lodge, of Ghent, on the occasion of the assassination of our venerable President, Lincoln, and also of the satisfaction at the triumph of the United States over the slaveholders’ rebellion.
I cannot but subscribe to the touching manifestation of fraternal sentiment, and beg to offer through you to the Septentrion Lodge my sincere thanks for this new proof of the sympathy of Belgians for my country and for the cause of the Union.
Accept the assurance of my distinguished sentiments.
The President of the Septentrion Lodge, Ghent.