The discussions on Egypt both in the House of Commons
and the French Chamber have been numerous this week, but uninstructive. Jingoes in both countries are wild with rage ; the traders inter- ested in Egypt are reasonably irritated ; and partisans in either country are trying hard to show, first, that the riots are the fault of Mr. Gladstone and M. de Freycinet, and secondly, that they Dave no plan for preventing a catastrophe. Neither Govern-
ment, however, has been forced into disclosures. There exists, as we have explained elsewhere, a real necessity for secrecy at present ; and almost the only official statement of importance has been one by Mr. Gladstone, affirming with unusual distinct- ness the perfect loyalty of the French Government, and the thorough accord between the Western Powers. It is to this point that the suspicions of the public turn. There is a belief abroad that M. de Freycinet is hampering British action ; but so far as can be perceived, the difficulty, if any, arises from his weakness be- fore the Chamber, rather than any treachery. Both Powers are pressing a particular course upon the Sultan, who pleads now his dignity, now his obligations as Head of the Faith, and now his finances, and both have authorised their Admirals to take any course necessary for the safety of their subjects. That includes, of course, authority to shell Alexandria, in the last resort.
