No. 229.
Mr. Read
to Mr. Evarts
.
Athens , February 5, 1878. (Received March 1.)
Sir: In view of the critical state of affairs I have visited each individual who has a claim to American protection, and I have prepared a list of persons and properties entitled to be covered by our flag. Although all American travelers have left here, which greatly reduces the numbers of our colony, I find that there are more than sixty persons residing here to occupy my attention. There are also a number of valuable buildings, like the large ones in which are lodged the mission [Page 366] schools of Dr. and Mrs. Hill and Miss Mure, whose male and female scholars number about 800.
Yesterday I returned the call of Commander Bradford, and we agreed upon a suitable and safe spot to which our fellow-citizens—men, women, and children—will be conveyed by the Marion in case of necessity. I should remain, here, however, in such an event.
I cannot praise too highly Commander Bradford’s promptitude in offering the hospitalities of his ship to our countrymen in case of need.
There are many things occurring here now which remind me of my experiences at Paris during the German siege and the siege of the commune. Of course, if any more serious crisis arises, there would be greater danger to life than at that time, because the size of this city places everyone en evidence. On this account I advise mere travelers not to tarry here, but to depart to more tranquil scenes. I may be allowed to repeat that I do not place faith in stories of a bombardment. I feel that there is more danger to be apprehended from internal troubles; but I sincerely trust that the troubles will soon be over, so that this interesting country may finally reap the benefits of her many struggles and trials.
It is proper to add that our countrymen residing here have called upon me to thank me for the measures I have taken for their safety.
I have, &c.,