No. 6., December 15, 1871

No. 6.

[Circular No. 15.]

Sir: Information has reached this Department that the purpose of its Circular No. 11, of the 16th of June last, relative to the protection of citizens of Switzerland, may, in some instances, have been misunderstood. You are consequently informed that you were not, for that purpose, expected to become a diplomatic or consular officer of that republic, which is prohibited by the Constitution to officers of the United States who are citizens. The intention was that you should merely use your good offices in behalf of any Swiss in your vicinity who might request them in the absence of a diplomatic or consular representative of Switzerland, and with the consent of the authorities where you reside.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,