MERIE, Keeper of the Seals to Abraham Lincoln, April 15, 1865

Lodge of the Friends of Perfect Union to Mrs. Lincoln.

Madam: Some misfortunes are irreparable, and for which there is no consolation; these have fallen to your lot, and the world deplores it.

These are not then vain efforts of comfort we extend to you, but simply the humble tribute of the profound regrets that weigh down our hearts. If the pure and holy life of your great husband made him the favorite of a great nation, his death has rendered him immortal.

The liberator of slaves had to be a martyr! Was not the Nazarene crucified?

Lincoln is now surrounded by a halo of glory that ages can never efface; his name will be forever blessed.

Be resigned, madam, to the inscrutable decrees of Providence, who needed a great soul to accomplish its designs, and fixed upon the man most suited to its purpose.

We remain, madam, with the most profound respect, your very devoted servants.