No. 223.
Mr. Peirce
to Mr. Fish.
Honolulu, July 22, 1872. (Received August 24.)
Sir: His Majesty the King is quite ill in health and has secluded himself from his ministers and the performance of public duties. Official business is at a stand-still, so far as requires action on his part.
No immediate danger of the King’s decease is, however, apprehended; but should the event take place, a crisis in the political affairs of the kingdom is anticipated therefrom.
The United States ship St. Marys, Commander Harris, is still in port; to sail for Sitka on the 1st August.
In case it should appear necessary for the protection of American interests here, I may officially request Commander Harris to remain for a longer period.
With respect, &c.,