Mr. Perry to Mr. Seward
Sir: I have the honor to report that the annual receptions by the Bey on the Little Byram have passed off with unusual harmony and good will.
The Arabs in the interior appear to be completely subdued, and peace exists throughout the regency.
Prince Arthur, third son of Queen Victoria, has visited Tunis this week, and was received and entertained by the Bey in a princely manner.
I am authentically informed that the cabinets of England, Austria, and Italy have expressed to the French cabinet the desire to come to a full understanding in regard to the status of Tunis. The French cabinet has replied in each case that this was an unfavorable time to discuss the Tunisian question.
The new French consul continues to pursue a conciliatory course towards the Tunis government.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.