Mr. Leishman to Mr. Hay.
Constantinople, November 15, 1903.
(Mr. Leishman states that as the Mohammedan lent commences on November 20 and lasts thirty days, during which period all business at the Porte is practically suspended, more drastic measures should be resorted to in order to force prompt settlement, as the Porte appears to be absolutely incapable of carrying out its numerous promises. The Sultan, whom Mr. Leishman has been unable to see personally, has allowed himself to be influenced into the belief that American schools are hotbeds of sedition, and he has taken a strong stand against complying with the demands of the Government of the United States, resting under the impression that no forcible action can be taken without Congressional authority.
Mr. Leishman is satisfied that the minister for foreign affairs has made an earnest and honest effort to have his promises put into execution, but being without any real power and not even enjoying the right of direct access to the Sultan, his efforts have proved futile against the fanatical palace clique, whose advice has undoubtedly been stimulated by foreign influence.
The Porte has acted favorably upon all pending questions, but is absolutely incompetent to complete them, and several matters recently adjusted have not as yet been put into execution.
Mr. Leishman states that as Turkish affairs generally are in a rather unsettled condition, owing to complications arising out of the Macedonian trouble, he would feel disposed to recommend further patience if he thought it would be of the very least benefit, but is quite convinced that longer delay would prove injurious rather than helpful, being satisfied that patience has ceased to be a virtue.