Mr. Morris to Mr. Seward.
Sir:* * * * * * * * *
I have visited the Grand Vizier and other functionaries of the Sublime Porte, with whom I have official relations. I was cordially welcomed as the representative of the United States, and the most friendly feeling was manifested to the government which I have the honor to serve.
As my predecessor, whose sympathies were entirely with the secession movement, had conveyed erroneous impressions to the Ottoman government, touching the existing war in the United States, I represented the struggle in its true light, as one for the maintenance of the government, whose existence was assailed by a conspiracy without any pretext or justification whatsoever. The Grand Vizier, as the organ of the government, expressed his desire for the preservation of the Union of the States, and exhibited a warm sympathy with the Union cause. He spoke of the friendly relations that had always existed between the two nations, and assured me that the disinterested friendship of the United States was properly appreciated, and that it would always give the Ottoman government pleasure to reciprocate it. Nothing could be more grateful to me than the sincere good-will shown to the government of the United States by the Turkish cabinet in this dark hour of its history, and that, too, when some of the Christian powers of Europe seem to be indifferent to its fate. It shall be my constant aim to cherish and confirm this friendly spirit.
In this connexion I am happy to say that every one connected with the representation of the United States at this place is ardently loyal to the Union. Mr. John P. Brown, the dragoman and secretary of the legation, has exerted his well known influence with the Turkish government in behalf of the Union, and with great effect. In this emergency, as at all times, he has shown himself a trustworthy, loyal, and valuable officer of the United States, eminently worthy of its confidence. The consul general, Mr. Heap, is equally true to his country. This unity of sentiment of course increases the influence of the United States representation at this point.
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With great respect, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State.