Mr. Terrell to Mr. Gresham.
Constantinople, November 8, 1893. (Received November 24.)
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that a vizierial order which five years ago prohibited women from practicing as licensed physicians has been relaxed in the case of [Miss] Dr. Mary Pierson Eddy, and permission has been granted her to appear before the board of examining physicians for examination.
I have taken special interest in Dr. Eddy’s case, both on account of the special instruction from your Department and her high character and attainments, which render her a tit representative abroad of American womanhood.
I took her diplomas (sent me by Mr. Adee) to the Porte and left them with the grand vizier for three weeks. He at first gave me no reason to hope for success, but I fixed his attention by announcing that you had instructed me to assist Dr. Eddy and by declaring my opinion that she was able to examine his examining board.
Not only is Dr. Eddy admitted to examination, but the grand vizier informs me that his vizierial order is prepared which removes the prohibition in favor of all women who are duly qualified to practice medicine.
I have, etc.,