File No. 10044/128.
Ambassador Leishman to the Secretary of State.
Pera, February 14, 1909.
Mr. Leishman says the divergence between the grand vizier and Parliament, together with the persistent rumors of intrigues to dethrone the Sultan, have caused considerable uneasiness and fears of disorders in Constantinople, and that the general state of security is not what it should be. He says disturbances have already occurred in the interior and at any time they may spread to the capital, where they are likely to be especially dangerous because of the absence of authority to suppress them. Adds that, while he is hopeful that anything of a serious nature may be avoided, thinks it advisable that the Scorpion return to Constantinople as soon as convenient.