Serious disturbances are expected in Armenia. The Armenians, who hoped
that Russia would conquer them, have for some weeks
been flying into Russian territory ; while those who remain are organising insurrections, and making alliances with neighbouring Mussulman tribes, It is even asserted, on fair authority, that 100,000 insurgents are in arms. So grave is the position, that the Armenians in Constantinople are disturbed, and their principal organ pleads strongly with Europe for a grant of autonomy. This, of course, will not be granted, as an autonomous people cannot be taxed ad libitum ; and as the insurrection will invite repres- sion, the Armenians will have to suffer more than ever. It is their own fault. They have never made common cause with the other Christian populations of Turkey, and though gifted with ability for soldiership, have never made a serious attempt for liberty. Their best course now is to make a bargain with the Pashas, and offer a heavy tribute for the right to be robbed by Pashas of their own race, who will take their money, but protect them from the Kurds.
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