Office of the Historian

No. 391.
Mr. Comly to Mr. Evarts.

[Extract.]
Legation of the United States,
Honolulu, February 14, 1881. (Received March 3.)
No. 152.]

Sir: Referring to my No. 150, dated January 21, 1881, giving formal notification of the regency of Her Royal Highness the Princess Liliuokolani, it is pleasant to say further that the princess has carried herself with such prudence and tact as to secure the respect of the entire community. The princess being heir apparent to the throne as well as regent, her course is scrutinized closely for indications of character. Her husband (Governor Dominis) being an American, his countrymen observe with pleasure certain indications of deference to public opinion, and as much republican simplicity as is consistent with royal state. [Page 620] At her first public reception not only the whole of the diplomatic and consular bodies, with their families, but all other ladies and gentlemen on general invitation, were received with courtesy and dignity. It was noted with pleasure also that the regent, in making calls at the different legations and upon the “cabinet ladies,” came in her private carriage, her coachman and footman not in livery. This was in strong contrast with the practice of other people of rank here. The regent also has a monthly reception-day, when all decent and reputable members of society are made welcome. * * *

I have, &c.,

JAMES M. COMLY.