Theodore Roosevelt actually said...

"The disaster is complete; that the city of St. Pierre has ceased to exist; and that the American consul and his family have perished."

"I earnestly commend this case of unexampled disaster to the generous consideration of the Congress."

"For this purpose I recommend that an appropriation of $500,000 be made, to be immediately available."

"Now, Therefore, I, Theodore Roosevelt, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the power vested in me by law, do hereby declare and make known that all of the lands so as aforesaid ced..."