Joy Morris to William H. Seward, August 21, 1864

Mr. Morris to Mr. Seward.

Sir:* * * * * * *

I have the honor to enclose, from the official paper of the government, the annual report of the Grand Vizier to the Sultan on the action of various departments of the Turkish government during the last year. It exhibits a gratifying picture of progress, and of skilful administration of the finances. The expenditures have been reduced below the estimates; roads have been opened an various points in the interior of the empire; improvements have been made it the system of public instruction; and important reforms have been adopted in the government of the provinces, and in the administration of justice. Mention is made of that most extraordinary event, the emigration of the Circassians. From this report it appears that within the last nine years about 600,000 of these unfortunate people have fled for refuge to Turkey, where they have met with a hospitable reception from the government of the Sultan. Of this number, 283,000 have emigrated to Turkey since the final subjugation of their country by the Russians during the present year.

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