The tendency to anarchy in Morocco is said to be
on the increase, and stories are telegraphed of a plot among the higher-class Moors to get rid of the Sultan, and elect a ruler who will be less inclined to imitate the ways of the infidel, and who in particular will not sell Morocco to the French. The effect of any such movement must be occupation by the French, who, however, show no haste to take advantage of their opportunity. On the contrary, they are anxious to avoid any heavy call upon the garrison of Algeria, and are discussing a scheme for strengthening the Sultan's gendarmerie. The idea is to lend him three or four regiments composed entirely of Mussulmans, who will restore order in Fez and other cities, and make it impossible for the tribesmen to succeed in a sudden rush. A rising is, of course, always possible in such a country whenever the Mussulmans suspect that their ascendency is threatened ; but a new and strong Sultan would soon perceive that anarchy was not to his interest, and that he must come to terms with the Europeans. The only great danger is the rise of a religious leader at once warrior and quasi-prophet ; and such a personage has not yet appeared. The present Sultan is certainly a weak man, but he is of the blood of Mohammed. Meantime, we deeply regret that we are unable to record the release of Mr. Perdicaris and Mr. Varley. The prisoners are not being ill- treated, but till they are set free it is impossible not to feel anxiety as to their fate.
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