Mr. Terrell to Mr. Gresham.
Constantinople, September 4, 1893. (Received September 21.)
Sir: When my predecessor conveyed to yon his impression that kindly and safe relations were reestablished between the missionaries and the Porte he was deceived.
I learn from Gargiulo the interpreter of the legation and the Christian professors in the college here that petty annoyances have been gradually increasing for three years. In my dispatch, No. 51,* I omitted to inform you that I felt called on, during my last interview with the grand vizier, to warn him of the effects that would follow the efforts of local officials to destroy the patronage of the schools. This I did by quietly remarking that it was quite immaterial whether American school houses were destroyed by lire or by intimidating their patrons; in either event values were destroyed where investments had been made under the protection of solemn treaties—this view of the matter his highness should consider.
I hope that my hint thus conveyed may inspire action that will correct the growing prejudice against American teachers. Unless its effects are soon seen I will procure an audience of the Sultan and frankly tell him that the United States expects the same consideration for her missionaries and teachers that is accorded to those of the most favored nation.
I have, etc.,
- Not printed.↩