No. 342.
Aristarchi Bey to Mr. Evarts.

[Translation.]

Mr. Secretary of State: The Government of the United Principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia on the 16th of April last, disregarding its obligations to the suzerain court, concluded a convention with Russia, the object of which was to prepare the way for the occupation of the Moldavo Wallachian territory by the enemy, which occupation took place on the 24th of the same month.

In consequence of this act, committed in violation of our rights, the Sublime Porte notified the agency of the Prince at Constantinople, under date of May 3, that its functions were thenceforth suspended.

Nevertheless, Moldavo-Wallachians residing in or passing through the empire will continue to enjoy, as in the past, the protection of the Ottoman laws and authorities the same as the faithful subjects of His Imperial Majesty the Sultan.

Moldavo-Wallachian vessels will also remain under the protection of the imperial authorities and of the Ottoman consuls in foreign countries.

Be pleased to accept, Mr. Secretary of State, the assurances of my very high consideration.

G. d’ARISTARCHI.