TUNIS AND EGYPT.
[TO THE EDITOR OP THE " SPECTATOR."] SIR,—You have given a new and startling direction to the Egyptian question by conjoining it with the treaty stipula- tions of France as to the evacuation of Tanis,—conveniently forgotten by her. She expects a Regulus-like purity from us, while declining to carry out her engagements. But the case of Tunis is even more serious when we remember that Italy had strong claims there, French occupation nearly causing a war between the two countries. Beside, the arming of Bizerta in opposition to treaty, is a menace to British power in the Mediterranean, whereas our presence in Egypt is a menace to nobody. So if there is to be evacuation, it must be evacuation pari passi from Egypt and Tunis. But is the question even quite so simple as this ? If we are to leave Egypt, are not there fair grounds for compensation for the immense expenditure of life and treasure in that country ? We know France makes war for one idea only, as instances,
Savoy and Nice. We, more materialistic, require a return. If the work of fourteen years were overturned, as it would be were we mad enough to leave, no one could blame us for demanding compensation.—I am, Sir, &c.,
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