Mr. Brown to Mr. Seward.

No. 4.]

Sir: I have had the honor to receive your circular of the 6th of May, regarding the duties of the legation and consulates of the United States in Turkey, with reference to passports of American citizens and individuals found negotiating with this government for purposes hostile to the Union.

I have sent a copy of this circular to each consulate of the United States in this empire, and have the honor to enclose herewith copy of the reply of the present consul general for Constantinople, Mr. David P. Heap, in whose loyalty to the government of the United States and fidelity to the Union I have every confidence.

I have the honor to be, sir, with much respect, your obedient servant,

JOHN P. BROWN.

Hon. William H. Seward,
Secretary of State, United States of America.

Mr. Heap to Mr. Brown.

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 10th instant, enclosing a circular from the honorable Secretary of State, dated May 6, on the subject of the delivery of passports to citizens of the United States.

I will strictly conform to the instructions contained therein, and in no case will this consulate general grant its visa to the passport of any person of whose loyalty to the Union it has not the most complete and satisfactory evidence. This consulate general will exercise the “utmost vigilance in counteracting the proceedings of any American citizen who, either personally or by agents, is found negotiating with the government or individuals for purposes hostile to the republic.

I remain sir, with high respect, your obedient servant,

D. P. HEAP,

Consul General.

John P. Brown, Esq.,
Chargé d’Affaires of the United States of America, Constantinople.