Mr. Gresham to Mr. Runyon.
Washington, June 22, 1893.
Telegram of this date received. After obtaining full information from consular officers and other sources, naval officers should be left free to determine how they will direct the combined forces against Mataafa [Page 752] and others in rebellion. Naval officers should not be required to consult consuls otherwise than for information, and United States not willing that the details of military operations shall be determined by the consuls. When Mataafa and his adherents are disarmed, the established Government will be able to exercise legitimate authority.