Mr. Seward to Mr. Morris.
Sir: Your despatch of the 28th of February, No. 145, has been received. It is accompanied by a copy of a note which, in concurrence with the representatives of other foreign powers, you have addessed to the minister of foreign affairs on the subject of the protection of commerce in the Black sea.
With reference to states of the character of Turkey, communication, advice, and solicitation, in regard to matters of internal administration, fall, as I believe, within the habits of all the Christian powers.
The only limit which it seems necessary to assign to that form of intervention [Page 240] are—first. That there shall be a necessity in the cause of humanity. Second. That such communication shall not be dictatorial, but courteous; and third, the circumstances to be such as to induce the belief that such communications would be kindly received. You have confined yourself within these limits, and your proceedings are therefore approved and commended.
I am, sir, your obedient servant,
E. Joy Morris, Esq., &c., &c., &c.