Brown to William H. Seward, May 29, 1861

Mr. Brown to Mr. Seward.

Sir:

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I had the honor, on the 25th instant, to receive your circular of the 20th ultimo, with its enclosure, addressed to the late minister resident, respecting the fitting out of privateers in Turkey to act against the commerce of the United States, and shall give my faithful and vigilant attention to the orders which it contains. The minister resident, on his departure, gave me the “circulars” of the department, one of February 28, and the other of March 9, 1861, of which he had not either acknowledged the receipt, nor made any use in carrying out the injunctions of the President. These, also, call for my immediate attention, and shall be faithfully executed.

I would here take occasion to add that I am confident there is not now one citizen of the United States in this place animated with sentiments other than those of entire loyalty to the government of the United States, and of devotion to the cause of the Union. Not only from the members of all the foreign legations resident here, but also from all foreigners in this city, I receive expressions of the most friendly nature in favor of the American Union. The unhappy and misguided position assumed by some of its southern States is deeply deplored and strongly condemned by them, and all entertain the hope that a returning sense of patriotism, and a correct view of their own interests, will, before long, restore peace and happiness to our great and prosperous country. These are, also, the sentiments expressed by all of the functionaries of the Sultan’s government; and I believe it will, at any time, be easy for the legation to invoke the most friendly conduct on the part of the Sublime Porte in behalf of the government of the United States of America.

I have the honor to be, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant,