John Mercer Langston to William M. Evarts, July 24, 1878

No. 275. Mr. Langston to Mr. Evarts.

Sir: In my dispatch numbered 69, of the 11th instant, I advised you of the resignation of the several members of the cabinet of President Canal. I have now the honor to inform you that a new cabinet has been organized, composed of Messrs. Ernest Roumain, secretary of state of finances, commerce, and foreign relations; St. Ilmont Louis Firmin Blot, secretary of state of the interior and agriculture; C. Archin, secretary of state of justice, public instruction, and worship; and T. Carrié, secretary of state of war and marine. Mr. Blot, a resident of Cape Haitien, has not yet arrived at the capital and entered upon the discharge of the duties of his office; but during the interim of his absence the performance of such duties is devolved upon his colleague, Mr. Archin, of the department of justice.

In announcing officially, on the 16th instant, the reorganization of the cabinet, Mr. Roumain, the minister of foreign affairs, addressed me a dispatch of such kindly temper and feeling, such generous and noble purpose, with regard to the friendly relations of our respective governments, that I have deemed it proper to transmit for your perusal, herewith inclosed, a copy thereof, with translation. Of course, in my reply, these kindly sentiments were heartily reciprocated.

The arret of the government, by which the appointment of the new members of the cabinet is announced and the resignation of the retiring members accepted and published, is interesting, in view of the fact that it briefly indicates the professional and military standing of the several members of the present cabinet, and, as an official document, to the stranger is curious and novel. I transmit, therefore, herewith inclosed, this document in its original form and language, with translation.

With regard to the action of the President had in the matter of reorganizing his cabinet, there seems to be general popular acquiescence, if not approval. Whether the political leaders of the National Assembly and others, who are said to have had large influence with the outgoing cabinet, will quietly acquiesce, remains to be seen. But no revolutionary outbreak is to be apprehended now in connection with this subject. The President seems to be strong and his administration firm.

I have, &c.,