New York City April18th 1885
Hon. Thomas F. Bayard
 Secretary of State
Sir
 Will you be kind enough to inform me whether any action has been taken, or is being contemplated, by your Department, with reference to the distribution of the balance of the “Virginius” fund. I am a sister of the late John Williamson, who served as oiler or aft Engineer on the Virginius, and was executed by the Spaniards. In the days of the administration of the late President Garfield, there was some talk about the distribution of the fund among the heirs, whose applications were filed. Please address me in
                                                                                                                 Care of Wm. H. Lusk
                                                                                                                 12 Centre St. New York City
                                                                                                                   Yours Respectfully
                                                                                                                        Eliza J. Williamson