You are requested, M. le Baron, to read and give a copy of this despatch to Lord Granville.
The principal Secretary of State of Her Britannic Majesty has expressed to you the regret he would experience if this discussion would alter the good understanding which the Government of Her Majesty the Queen has striven to maintain between the two countries. Will you inform his Excellency how much the Imperial Cabinet would share in this regret.
We think the good understanding of the two Governments essentially useful to the two countries, as well as to the peace of the world. It is with a lively satisfaction that we have seen it become during the last few years more and more intimate and cordial.
The parity of the circumstances in which we are placed seem of a kind to render this more desirable than ever.
Receive, &c.,
Gortschakoff.
Earl Granville to Sir A. Buchanan.
Foreign Office, Nov. 28.
Sir,—The Russian Ambassador has read and given to me a copy of a despatch of Prince Gortschakoff of the date of 8th (20th) November.