Ragheb Pacha, [ Seal.] to Charles Hale, June 5, 1867

Ragheh Pacha to Mr. Hale

I have taken into consideration your note of the month of May ultimo, concerning the complaint brought by certain persons against the Coptic Patriarch. In that note you say that the government of the Viceroy has generally shown by its acts that it allows religious toleration, and you think therefore that it cannot approve of the proceedings of the Coptic, Patriarch.

It is true that the Egyptian government has allowed the toleration of all religions, like other civilized governments, and has given full and complete assistance to all religions in supplying their needs.

In view of the toleration which it thus accords, the government thinks it its duty not to take any official part in the decision of religious questions; for it fears, in view of the great number of different religions in Egypt, to give rise to anarchy by its official interference.

Accordingly, I have the honor to reply to you unofficially, (or, in a friendly manner,) that I experience much regret in observing that these complaints address themselves to you, Mr. Consul General, in this matter, since they ought, by their very position in relation to the government, to address themselves always to the local authorities.

Nevertheless, out of respect for your person, I have written at once to the inspector general of provinces, to obtain all the information necessary regarding the circumstances which have been pointed out, and to prevent, on the part of those whose duty it is, anything that may stand in the way of the toleration already mentioned.