Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, Accompanying the Annual Message of the President to the Second Session Thirty-eighth Congress, Part IV

Mr. McMath to Mr. Seward.

No. 22.]

Consulate of the United States of America, Tangier, July 1, 1864.

Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith to the department a copy of the translation of a note from the Moorish minister for foreign affairs, informing me that his Majesty the Sultan has removed the restrictions imposed on trade in the interior markets of this country. By an agreement between the Sultan and foreign representatives in this country, communicated to the department in my despatch, No. 6, dated 19th November, 1862, merchants were prohibited from going to markets in the interior to buy wool and cereals, but were permitted to purchase only in the markets of seaport towns. This restrictive agreement paralyzed trade, and operated greatly to the prejudice of Christian merchants, and at the request of the foreign representatives the agreement has been rescinded, and no restrictions other than those imposed by treaty are now in force.

Your despatch, No. 11, dated May 9, last, and circulars 46 and 50, have been received.

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

JESSE H. McMATH.

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, &c., &c., &c.

[Translation.]

Mr. Bargash to Mr. McMath.

Praise be to the one God!

To our beloved and wise friend Jesse H. McMath, esq., United States consul general: We are always making inquiry regarding your welfare and praying God you are well.

I have to inform you that our master the Sultan, protected by God, has acceded in planning free commerce in conformity with treaty stipulations, and it is my duty to inform you thereof; and peace !

On 9th Muharram, year 1281, equal to 12th June, 1864.

The employé of the elevated throne,

MOHAMED BARGASH.