Mr. Leishman to Mr. Hay.
Pera , January 17, 1904 .
(Mr. Leishman reports that, as reported in previous correspondence, an effort has been made ever since the fleet arrived to resist a settlement of the pending questions as long as the fleet remains in Turkish waters. The situation remains practically unchanged, and constant efforts to induce the minister for foreign affairs to bring the matter to a settlement remain unsuccessful, as he is impotent, despite his friendly disposition. All power is vested in the Sultan, who can not be approached either by Mr. Leishman or the minister for foreign affairs except by permission, and the latter can discuss only such questions as the Sultan desires.)