Source: Prime
Ministerial Ottoman Archives, Y.PRK.AZN 25/40;
Transliteration cited at Ýris Muzaffer, Bütün Yönleriyle Süryaniler, 2003, Ekol
Yayýmcýlýk, Istanbul Imperial Palace Telegraph Office 1327
To the Imperial Threshold
In Adana and its bounds without any reason land, people and possessions were
subjected to great damages. Now for them [the Christians] to reside in this area
and be assured of their safety is up to the judgment of the Court Martial. But
what transpired thus far has demolished our hopes and caused us despair. This is
because rather than searching for those responsible for the massacres and
damages and punish them so it may be a warning to others, common murderers are
being sought. Poor ignorant Muslim villagers who obeyed orders without knowing,
and some Christians who were convicted due to malicious false testimonies or
innocent citizens, who defended their lives, are being convicted. The Court
Martial is pursuing the policy of absolutely finding the Christians at fault. In
this predicament, who can we tell about our affliction? How can we provide
assurances and comfort to our helpless congregation?
For the love of God, show mercy.
SyrianCatholic Patriarchate Representative: Head Priest Father Filipos
Protestant Clerical Leader: Hampersom
Armenian Catholic Bishop: Bishop Bagos
Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate Representative: Father Mansur
Greek Catholic [Melkite] Clerical Leader: Father Ilias
Armenian Bishopric Representative: Father Aras
Chaldean Patriarchate Representative: Father Stephan.
17 June 1909

