Extra Credit Questions

[David Lockmiller]

I believe that President Lincoln composed and wrote the entire letter.

And, a key to this understanding is the use of the word "fain" in context. According to dictionary.com the adverb use of the word is "gladly; willingly" and with the sentence example: "He fain would accept."

Lincoln wrote: "The offer of condolence in such cases is a customary ceremony, which has its good uses, though it is conventional, and may sometimes be even insincere. But I would fain have Your Majesty apprehend, on this occasion, that real sympathy can exist, as real truthfulness can be practiced, in the intercourse of Nations."

This was at the time of the Trent affair, as I believe. Diplomatic relations of the two governments were adverse at the time.

Lincoln wrote: "Accidents, however, incidental to all States, and passions, common to all nations, often tend to disturb the harmony so necessary and so proper between the two countries, and to convert them into enemies. It was reserved for Your Majesty in sending your son, the Heir Apparent of the British Throne, on a visit among us, to inaugurate a policy destined to counteract these injurious tendencies, as it has been Your Majesty's manifest endeavor, through a reign already of considerable length and of distinguished success, to cultivate the friendship on our part so earnestly desired. It is for this reason that you are honored on this side of the Atlantic as a friend of the American People. The late Prince Consort was with sufficient evidence regarded as your counsellor in the same friendly relation."

Lincoln concluded the short missive accordingly: "The American People, therefore, deplore his death and sympathize in Your Majesty's irreparable bereavement with an unaffected sorrow."

And, Lincoln ended: "This condolence may not be altogether ineffectual, since we are sure it emanates from only virtuous motives and natural affection. I do not dwell upon it, however, because I know that the Divine hand that has wounded, is the only one that can heal: And so, commending Your Majesty and the Prince Royal, the Heir Apparent, and all your afflicted family to the tender mercies of God, I remain Your Good Friend, ABRAHAM LINCOLN."