There has been, of course, an infinity of rumours about
interference from France and Russia, but they are all exag- gerations. Both Powers have made inquiries, but both are quite aware that while Great Britain remains in Egypt, She must govern, and neither cares one straw whether the Khedive likes it or not. The French journals enjoy any prospect of Eng- lish difficulties in Egypt, and the French G overnment is pleased with an opportunity of worry which may hasten evacuation; but from that to interference is a long step. The Russian Govern- ment, again, is willing to please France, but has no objection to see England at Cairo, believing that the safety of her route to India will relax her ardour in defence of Constantinople. The only real difficulty at present arises from the general im- pression abroad that the Liberal Cabinet, when in Opposit:on, had promised to shake off Egypt, and is now breaking that pro- naise. No inch promise had, of course, been given by the Radicals
as a Party; and Mr. Gladstone's and Mr. Morley's injudicious words were addressed only to the English people, and were liable to modification by events. Even a promise to retire, moreover, is not a promise to be passive under a kicking downstairs. The international side of the Egyptian Question remains just where it was. It is the internal side of the matter which has become more complicated, because, as usual in the East, Rehoboam has succeeded Solomon.
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