Mr. Burnley to Mr. Hunter
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 15th instant, announcing to me the lamented death of the President of the United States on the night of the 14th instant, from the effects of a pistol-shot received at the hands of an assassin, whilst attending the performances at the theatre, and the dastardly attempt to assassinate in like manner the Secretary of State, and his son Mr. F. Seward.
It is with feelings of the deepest regret that I have heard of these crimes, a regret which will be shared by my government on reception of the sad news. I sincerely trust that Mr. Seward and his son may recover from the wounds inflicted on them and be restored to health.
I take this opportunity of acknowledging the announcement of the formal assumption of the functions of President by the late Vice-President, Andrew Johnson, and of your appointment to perform temporarily the duties of Secretary of State.
I have the honor to be, with high consideration, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,
Hon. W. Hunter, &c., &c., &c.