Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the First Session Thirty-ninth Congress

Mr. Hunter to Mr. Burnley

Department of State, Washington, April 15, 1865.

Sir: It is my great misfortune to be obliged to inform you of events not less afflicting to the people of the United States than distressing to my own feelings and the feelings of all those connected with the government. The President of the United States was shot with a pistol last night, while attending a theatre in this city, and expired this morning from the effect of the wound.

At about the same time, an attempt was made to assassinate the Secretary of State, which, though it fortunately failed, left him severely, but it is hoped not dangerously wounded, with a knife or dagger.

Mr. F. W. Seward was also struck on the head with a heavy weapon, and is in a critical condition from the effect of the blows.

Pursuant to the provision of the Constitution of the United States, Andrew Johnson, the Vice-President, has formally assumed the functions of President. I have by him been authorized to perform the duties of Secretary of State, until otherwise ordered.

I avail myself of the occasion to offer to you the assurance of my very distinguished consideration.

W. HUNTER, Acting Secretary.

J. Hume Burnley, Esq., &c., &c., &c.

[Same, mutatis mutandis, to all foreign ministers in the United States.]