William Hunter to Charles Francis Adams, April 15, 1865

Mr. Hunter to Mr. Adams

Sir: The sad duty devolves upon me to announce the assassination of the President at Ford’s theatre, last night, by a pistol-shot from a person who entered his box for the purpose. The assassin escaped, but it is supposed has since been arrested. The President died at seven and a half o’clock this morning. Vice President Johnson has assumed the functions of President, having been sworn in by the Chief Justice.

About the same, time an attempt was made, by, it is believed, a different person, to assassinate Mr. Seward, but the murderer only succeeded in inflicting painful and severe wounds, principally upon his face. Mr. F. W. Seward was beaten over the head with a heavy weapon in the hands of the person who attacked his father, and is grievously hurt. His brother was also wounded by the dagger of the assassin, as well as Mr. Hansell, a messenger of the Department of State, who was with the Secretary, and the male nurse in attendance.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,