Extra Credit Questions

[David Lockmiller]

April 29, 1865 - Queen Victoria to Mary Todd Lincoln (Condolences)

Dear Madam,
Though a stranger to you I cannot remain silent when so terrible a calamnity has fallen upon you & your country, & most personally express my deep & heartfelt sympathy with you under the shocking circumstances of your present dreadful misfortunes.

No one can better appreciate than I can, who am myself utterly broken-hearted by the loss of my own beloved Husband, who was the Light of my Life, -- my Stay -- my All,-- What your sufferings must be; and I earnestly pray that you may be supported by Him to whom alone the sorely stricken can look for comfort, in this hour of heavy affliction.

With the renewed expression of true sympathy,
I remain,
dear Madam,
Your Sincere
friend
Victorially

It almost seems that Queen Victoria may have reread President Lincoln's letter to her following the death of her own husband. I quote therefrom and please note the similarity in phrasing:

"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."