David A. Russell to Mr. Stuart, January 21, 1865

Earl Russell to Mr. Stuart

Sir: I send you a copy of a despatch of his Highness Ali Pacha to M. Musurus, which M. Musurus has just put into my hands.

I gather from this despatch that the Sultan will observe inviolably the 6th article of the Hatti Humayun of his late brother, which is in these terms:

“Seeing that all religions are and will be freely practiced in my states, no subject in my empire will be troubled in the exercise of the religion which he professes, or be in any manner disturbed on this account. No one will be compelled to change his religion.”

I understand further, from the termination of the despatch, that the free sale and circulation of the Bible continues and will continue to be authorized in the Turkish empire. If these two declarations are maintained and acted upon, I am quite willing to close the controversy.

I have no desire to impugn the general spirit of toleration which animates the Sublime Porte, nor do I feel at all called upon to defend the laws and government of the British empire on the score of religious liberty.

I request you to give a copy of this despatch to his Highness Ali Pacha.

I am, &c.,