Mr. Straus to Mr. Blaine.

No. 201.]

Sir: On March 15, in my dispatch No. 178, I reported the action taken by me respecting several schools of the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions which were closed in the district of Gawar, Vilayet of Van, on the Persian frontier. On the 10th instant I received the letter, of which the inclosed is a copy, from Rev. Henry O. Dwight, one of the agents of the American Bible house here at Constantinople, stating that Rev. Mr. Coan, of the Presbyterian Board, writing from Urmiah, Persia, under date of May 18, reports that the schools have been re-opened and are now proceeding satisfactorily.

I have, etc.,

O. S. Straus.
[Inclosure in No. 201.]

Mr. Dwight to Mr. Straus.

Dear Sir: Referring to previous communications from Dr. Cochrane, and also from myself, concerning certain schools of the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions which were closed in the district of Gawar, near the Persian frontier, I have the pleasure to inform you that the Turkish Government has allowed these schools, to be re-opened.

[Page 723]

Rev. Mr. Coan, of the above-named society, informs me from Urmiah, Persia, under date of 18th May, that the authorities in Gawar have removed the restrictions, and the schools are now proceeding satisfactorily. Mr. Coan desires me to thank you heartily for your kind efforts in behalf of these schools.

Very respectfully,

Henry O. Dwight.