Mr. Newberry to Mr. Foster.
Constantinople, November 3, 1892. (Received November 22.)
Sir: It appears that the authorities are earnestly taking the necessary steps to bring to justice and punishment the five men arrested at Bourdour for the complicity in the burning of Mr. Bartlett’s house. On several occasions of late I have urged the grand vizier to punish in some fitting way the mutessarif (governor) of Bourdour for his gross negligence in that affair, as there was no doubt but that under-officials at that place were only echoing the sentiments of their chief. I learn with satisfaction to-day that the grand vizier had dismissed the governor for inefficiency, and appointed in his place an Ottoman Turkish subject, one Arrif Bey, who for several years has been employed in the public censor’s office. This gentleman is well known to the legation as an educated and enlightened man, and we look for no more trouble in the Bourdour quarter. I immediately called in person upon the grand vizier and expressed the thanks of our Government for his highness’ action. At the same time he promised a full investigation for the late trouble at Kara Hissar, and assured me that all guilty ones would be punished. The ringleader of the Kara Hissar mob has been imprisoned here in Constantinople. Mr. Bartlett does not wish any further trouble over the matter, as he thinks everything will be quiet.
I have, etc.,
Chargé d’Affaires ad interim.