13 DECEMBER 1879, Page 3

It is difficult to believe that such an iniquitous arrangement

as that by which two great Powers are to plunder the peasantry of Egypt for ever, in order to give double profits to Rings of speculators, should last, and it seems possible that its downfall may come from the south. Colonel Gordon has entirely failed in inducing King John of Abyssinia to renounce his claims. That monarch has sent him back in safety, but demands a port on the Red Sea, £2,000,000 in compensation for damages, and certain cessions to the South. Under these oireumstances, Egypt must fight.