[Untitled], May 10, 1865.

[Untitled]

I have received, with deep emotion, the expression of sympathy and condolence uttered by the honorable chamber of deputies in a manner so touching and marked, in reference to the deplorable event which now saddens the hearts of the American people.

In the very hour when peace had spread her benignant wings over a distracted country, he, who by his virtues, gentleness, and public worth had inspired everywhere a generous confidence, was struck down by the criminal hand of passionate resentment.

The martyrdom with which an eventful career was crowned becomes the legacy not only of a nation but of humanity; for his life was a sacrifice on the altar of duty.

A great and a good man has fallen, but the principles which he represented and defended so uprightly and well survive to honor his memory, and will continue to live and be cherished wherever constitutional government, liberty, and justice are respected.

The people of the United States, who had learned to value the good will and honorable conduct of Portugal during a period of strife now happily terminated, will welcome her voice of sympathy in this hour of universal grief as a token of friendship which should bind them more closely together.

It will be my duty to communicate immediately to the government of the United States the sentiments expressed by the honorable chamber of deputies, but I cannot permit this occasion to pass without conveying, on behalf of the constituted authorities and for myself individually, a united appreciation of this high mark of consideration and respect.