Señor Salgar to Mr. Hunter
[Translation.]
Legation of Colombia to the United States.
Sir: The undersigned, envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of Colombia, has received your note of the 15th instant, informing him of the violent death of the President of the United States, and of the criminal attempt upon the life, of Mr. Seward and his son, in consequence of which events Mr. Andrew Johnson, the Vice-President, has assumed the functions of President, and has authorized you to act as Secretary of State.
The undersigned, in expressing his sincere regret for the unfortunate events that have taken place, and which he has hastened to communicate to his government, makes himself the interpreter of his countrymen, and assures you that the sad event will be deplored in the United States of Colombia, as well on account of the fraternal interest they feel for this nation, as their sympathy in the humane policy of the lamented President, which is cherished in our country, and inspires our institutions, based on justice and liberty.
The undersigned is pleased to learn from the daily papers that the honorable Mr. Seward and his son are recovering from the atrocious attempt to take their lives, and that their wounds will have no serious consequences.
The antecedents of the eminent citizen who is called to preside as Chief Magistrate of this country is the best guarantee the undersigned can offer his government that the new administration will continue its frank, cordial, and friendly policy towards the United States of Colombia.
The undersigned congratulates you on your appointment as Acting Secretary of State, and embraces the occasion to repeat the assurances of his most distinguished consideration.
Hon. William Hunter,
Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.