IV

Letter tr%u Urà Vraicts Conjura a to the SecreUry of the Levait Company , dated Aprll 29the 1823.

Sir,

I am directed by Mr. SecreUry Canniug to request tbat you will call the serious attention of the Levant Company to tbe subject of a eomplaint, which bas been made to bis Majesty's Gov. of tbe conduct of tbe Brîtisb Consuls and Persons uoder their protection in the Levant

It would appear tbat indirect contravention of those principles of strict neutrality, which His Majesty's Gov. bave uniformly professed and desired to maintain , throughout the contest which unhappily exists* between tbe Greeks and the Turcs, British Subjects bave been active in the Levant in tbeir exertions in behalf of the Turks, and tbat several british vessels have been detained by tbe Greeks for actual violation of their existing blockade, in attempting to throw supplies into the Turkish Fortresses.

The cases of the ships Hora, LovelyAnn and the Schooner M a 1vina, tbe latter belonging to Mr. Green, tbe British Consul at Patrass, and haviug al the time she was taken by tbe Greeks, two of tbat Gentleman's brothers on board , have been particularly specified.

Thèse vessels were liberated thro* the interférence of His Majesty's Officers. But I am to acquaint you for the information of the Levant-Trade in

Général, that His M's. Gov. eannot countenance such proceedings, and that the Commander in ebief of H. M's. naval Forces in the Mediterranean bas received instructions to maintain the most strict nentrality between tbe con-

teuding parties, discountenance the interférence of british snbjects, and to prohibit His officers in future from requiring the release of any Vesscls or Goods, wbich may bave been detained by either Party, for breach of actual blockade or otber violation of the Law of Nations.

With respect to the condoct of the Consuls , I am to reqaest that you will eonvey to the Levant Company the decided opinion of H. M's. Gov. that such practices on the part of persons in their situation , are highly improper and wholfy incompatible with their duties as publie functionaries.

His M's. Gov. expect that such Instructions will be forthwith sent out to thera, as may put a stop to proceedings so inconvénient to the public service. I am etc.

(signed) Francis Conyngham.