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  4. Document 292

Mr. Seward to Mr. Morris

No. 99.]
Department of State, Washington, November 17, 1865.

Sir: Your despatch of October 18, No. 129, has been received. It brings information of the very interesting fact that certain ecclesiastical estates within the empire have been secularized. I think that you very rightly anticipate, as fruits of this reform, a considerable augmentation of the national industry, with a very convenient and desirable increase of the public revenues. If it shall seem to [Page 311] you to be discreet, you will tender the President’s congratulations to the Sultan upon that important event.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM H. SEWARD.

E. Joy Morris, Esq., &c., &c., Constantinople.