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Highness: I have had the honor to receive the note you were pleased to write me on the 4th instant, on the subject of the measures adopted by the Ottoman government for the organization of maritime posts, and thus to effect the conveyance of letters on the coast in the same manner as has already been done, with so many advantages, in the interior of the empire.
These measures cannot be otherwise than productive of very great benefits, both to the Ottoman and foreign populations, and to the commercial interests of all classes. The numerous foreign posts existing in the empire, each under different directors, are the source of inconveniences which prevent the free exchange of communications by sea, and the amount of postage, often uncertain and excessive, creates irregularities which call for a thorough reform. Their adoption also shows that the Ottoman government, as an enlightened and progressive nation, is determined to exercise its own evident rights; and that of the United States will observe with pleasure that his Imperial Majesty is not indifferent to the exercise by others of functions which belong to his state only, and should be for its own account, as well as under its own immediate control.
I avail myself of the present opportunity to renew to your highness assurances of my perfect consideration.
His Highness Aali Pacha, Minister of Foreign Affairs.