“Though well aware that you are habitually accustomed to decline all similar requests, we earnestly hope you will yield to our wishes.
“As citizens of the great Republic, representing many States, and all actively engaged in commercial life, we tender you this tribute, as an evidence of our appreciation of your elevated patriotism, unbending integrity, and spotless honor.
“With the highest esteem, we have the honor to be your friends and fellow-citizens.
- “John Munroe,
- B. G. Wainwright,
- Elliot C. Cowdin,
- Samuel P. Holmes,
- A. P. Montant,
- Thomas N. Dale,
- G. F. T. Reed,
- James W. Tucker,
- George T. Richards,
- A. K. P. Cooper,
- George Milne,
- C. L. Sharpsteen,
- Henry Woods,
- W. Endicott, Jr.,
- John C. Martin,
- Walter H. Lewis,
- George L. Todd,
- David Lane,
- V. Mumford Moore,
- J. H. Deming,
- Jos. D. B. Curtis.”
To this invitation Mr. Sumner returned the following reply.
Hôtel de la Paix, Rue de la Paix,
April 30, 1857.
GENTLEMEN,—I have been honored by your communication of the 28th April, where, after referring to my services as Senator of the United States, in language generous beyond the ordinary experience of political life, you are pleased to invite me, in the name of the American merchants residing in Paris, to a public dinner, at such time as may be most convenient to myself.
The voice of hospitality is pleasant in a strange land. But the hospitality which you offer is enhanced by the character and number of those who unite in it, among whom I recognize well-known names, intimately associated with the commerce of my country in one of its most important outposts.