The Secretary of State to Minister Hill.
Washington, March 27, 1907.
(Department has not been notified that Turkey, although signatory, has ratified Hague Convention of 1899, and learns that Turkey is not represented in permanent court. Department is informed that Belgium will not object to Russian proposal for adherence of non-signatories when assent of all other signatories given. Direction is given to inquire as to Turkish status and to ascertain Netherlands view as to treating Turkey on same footing as powers who have consummated Hague conventions, and also when formal announcement of date of forthcoming conference may be expected.)