Francis to Frelinghuysen, September 24, 1884

No. 11. Mr. Francis to Mr. Frelinghuysen.

Sir: Referring to your No. 2, of the date of August 7, I have the honor to report that on the 15th instant I called upon Count Szogyényi, chief of section at the ministry of foreign affairs, and drew his attention to the matter treated of in the above instruction, namely, the reported action of the Austrian authorities to repress the proselytizing efforts of Mormon emissaries to obtain recruits in this country with a view to their emigration to the United States. My predecessor, Mr. Taft, who received from the Department similar instructions in your No. 89, dated July 28, had already taken action in compliance therewith, as set forth in his No. 155 to Mr. Frelinghuysen, dated August 12.

In my interview with Count Szogyényi I remarked that, if convenient, I would be glad to have furnished me a written authoritative statement on the subject, pointing out the measures that had been adopted by His Majesty’s Government for the repression of Mormon proselytizing and recruiting in His Majesty’s Empire for the purpose of securing accessions by emigration to the polygamous sect in the United States, and any action that may have been taken by the Austrian authorities in pursuance of these measures. Count Szogyényi replied that he would cheerfully furnish the desired statement, which was delivered to me on the 19th instant.

I herewith inclose copy of his excellency’s note containing it, with translation of the same. I also inclose copy of my reply to this note, wherein I have endeavored to carry out your instruction to promptly recognize the act of the Austrian Government, if steps had been taken by it to prevent the recruiting of Mormons in this country for emigration to the United States, as a measure in the interest of peace and morality.

I have, &c.,