The relief brought by you will be effective to lessen the sufferings of so many wretched people, who have been deprived in a few moments of their relatives, of their beloved native town, and of every possession.
With esteemed consideration,
The Mayor,
S. CONSOLI.
To Signor Reginald Rowan Belknap, Lieutenant-Commander, Naval Attachè to the Embassy of the United States of America in Rome.
To this the following reply was sent, both letters being published in the local papers:
Expedition of the American Red Cross,
Steamship Bayern, Catania, January 12, 1909.
To the Mayor of Catania:
In response to your gracious letter conveying the thanks of the citizens of Catania for our offer of assistance, I have the honor, in the name of His Excellency the American Ambassador, and also of the American Red Cross, to express to you the sincere friendship and heartfelt sympathy which all our countrymen feel for this beautiful land and its people, especially in this time of sorrow.
To have relieved in some small measure the distressing needs of those we love is a cherished privilege, and the gratitude which you have sent to the United States will carry there widespread thankfulness.
With distinguished consideration,