S. in Japan to Charles A. Winchester, June 20, 1865

Mr. Portman to Mr. Winchester

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the reception of your letter of yesterday, expressing the sentiments of profound pain and regret which, in common with all Englishmen in Japan, you felt at the intelligence of the atrocious assassination of Mr. Lincoln. I shall transmit a copy of your communication to my government.

Expressions like these, of the enormity of the crime committed, and the immensity of the loss sustained, will be received, in their affliction, by the people of the United States in the same spirit in which they are tendered, and cannot fail, under Providence, to contribute in cementing those feelings of good will which I sincerely trust and pray may forever subsist between our respective countries.

I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient servant,