Mr. Leishman to Mr. Hay.
Pera, January 31, 1904.
(Mr. Leishman reports that a note has just been delivered by the powers in regard to the Macedonian reforms, and that the withdrawal [Page 819] of the American fleet will be made at an opportune moment and will have a good general effect, but no immediate settlement of the pending questions can be expected, as the above-mentioned note has caused a political crisis and will prevent consideration of other business for the present. The withdrawal of the fleet is accepted by the minister for foreign affairs as a most friendly act on the part of the Government, and he has given assurances that the withdrawal will be greatly appreciated, and that he will use his best endeavors to obtain a settlement of the pending questions at the first opportune moment. Mr. Leishman requests to be informed of the date of departure of the fleet.)