Mr. Leishman to Mr. Hay.

No. 833.]

Sir: I called upon the minister for foreign affairs late Tuesday afternoon, and finding no visible signs of an immediate settlement I concluded that further delay was useless, notwithstanding his protestations that the matter was being considered and would be brought before the council of ministers the next day.

Consequently I made a request in the name of the President for an audience, which I was in hopes might possibly be granted the following Friday, after Selamnik, the usual time for receiving ambassadors.

Early this morning I received a visit from the chef du cabinet du ministère des affaires étrangères, who informed me that His Imperial Majesty would be unable to receive me, as he was indisposed and very fatigued.

* * * * * * *

I shall continue to press for an audience in a firm but polite manner, but should to-day’s treatment be repeated next Friday I shall feel compelled to ask the Department for further instructions. * * *

Will keep you fully advised by wire of any change in the situation.

I have, etc.,

John G. A. Leishman.