[Signed,] ARCHER ANDERSON,
Lieut. Col. and A. A. G.
Official Copy: Isaac Hayne.
Washington, April 12, 1865.
To Major-General Sherman:
President Lincoln was murdered, about ten o’clock last night, in his private box at Ford’s Theatre, in this city, by an assassin, who shot him in the head with a pistol ball. At the same hour Mr. Seward’s house was entered by another assassin, who stabbed the Secretary in several places. It is thought he may possibly recover, but his son Fred may possibly die of the wounds he received.
The assassin of the President leaped from the private box, brandishing his dagger and exclaiming: “Sic Semper Tyrannis—Virginia is revenged!” Mr. Lincoln fell senseless from his seat, and continued in that condition until 22 minutes past 10 o’clock this morning, at which time he breathed his last.
Vice President Johnson now becomes President, and will take the oath of office and assume the duties to-day.
[Signed,] E. M. STANTON