14 APRIL 1984, Page 18

One hundred years ago

It is believed that the expiration of Aleko Pasha's term as Governor, which is now approaching, will be the signal for agitation in Eastern Roumelia. He has governed so well, that the province is quiet and prosperous, education ad- vances, and the people are more con- tented than the Northern Bulgarians... It is a pity to lose the experience and tact of Prince Vogorides, who has displayed great administrative power and unex- pected absence of ambition, but there is one compensation. The worse the Government in Eastern Roumelia, the more certain is the junction of the two Bulgarias, which is indispensable, both to the independence of the Balkan States and the final destruction of the Sultan's authority.

Spectator, 12 April 1884