Mr. Seward to Mr. Morris

No. 47.]

Sir: Your despatch of December 4 (No. 37) has been received. The answer of his Highness Ali Pacha to the note of the ambassador of the Great Powers, on the subject of the rights of foreigners to own real estate in Turkey, certainly is very cogently expressed. The principles upon which intercourse is conducted between the Ottoman Empire and Christian nations are peculiar, and even anomalous. It is easily perceived, that if civil administration in Turkey could be made effective for the protection of the persons and property of foreigners, that change would afford a reasonable ground for a mutual melioration of the jealousies of Christian nations.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM. H. SEWARD.

E. Joy Morris, Esq., &c., &c., &c., Constantinople.