711.674/30: Telegram
The High Commissioner at Constantinople ( Bristol ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 8:05 p.m.]
219. Your telegram August 21, 6 p.m. I have kept in mind constantly in practice as well as in theory the legal prohibition against making any distinction between different classes of American citizens. No pains are spared by my staff and the delegates of the High Commission in their efforts to settle the various questions which involve naturalized citizens. These efforts will not be relaxed. It was my intention in telegrams 202 and 203 of August 6 simply to invite the attention of the Department to the difficulties which this problem now presents in Turkey. I suggest that it is advisable to postpone negotiations for a treaty with Turkey on the subject of naturalization until our principal treaty has gone into effect and normal consular and diplomatic relations have been resumed. The entering into effect of our treaties at the earliest moment possible is so clearly essential for our interests in Turkey that in my opinion we should make every effort to avoid negotiations or incidents which might endanger or delay ratification. I also believe that once regular relations between the United States and Turkey have been established, there will be a better chance of securing satisfaction from the Turks on the question of naturalization. I am elaborating my views in a despatch.