No. 272.
Mr. Outrey to Mr. Evarts.
Washington, March 7, 1881. (Received March 7.)
Mr. Secretary of State: I have just received the brief note which you have been pleased to send me, requesting me to give you in writing what I had the honor to tell you verbally with regard to the enterprise of Mr. Lesseps.
Not long since Mr. Barthélemy Saint Hilaire reiterated to me the assurances [Page 441] given by his predecessors, and authorized me, if the opportunity should offer, again to declare the unchanging determination of the French Government to preserve for the enterprise of our countrymen the absolutely private and international character which he has had the wisdom to give it.
I am very glad that you have given me an opportunity thus to repeat a declaration which can leave no doubt in any impartial mind.
Be pleased to Accept, &c.,