[Untitled], May 6, 1865.

[Untitled]

The undersigned, minister resident of the United States of America in Switzerland, takes the earliest opportunity, after a return from a short journey, to acknowledge the receipt of the note of their excellencies of the high federal council, expressing their horror of the fearful act which has deprived his country of its great and wise chief, and plunged a whole great people in the profoundest grief.

This note will be forwarded without delay to Washington, where, if anything can alleviate the great national bereavement, it is the universal manifestation of regret with which all Europe, and especially Switzerland, share the grief of the American people, and mourn the great and good man, so suddenly struck down in the midst of his labors for the glory and regeneration of his country.

Among the incidents of his residence in Switzerland the undersigned will always remember, with the liveliest satisfaction, that in all the long struggle which, during four years, has developed the great qualities of President Lincoln, now recognized and honored by the whole world, the sympathies of Switzerland have never failed to be on the side of the government of the United States.

If other governments have sympathized with a rebellion against popular institutions and in favor of despotism, the government and people of the Helvetic republic have never wavered in their friendship towards a great sister republic and in fidelity to their own ancient traditions.

For this new testimony of friendship and warm wishes for the reconstitution of the American Union, expressed by the high federal council, as well as for their sympathy in a great national grief, the undersigned tenders to their excellencies his sincere thanks.

With the highest esteem and consideration,