The French Government will shortly enjoy a new oppor- tunity
of showing that it cares nothing about the welfare of Egypt, but cares much about displaying its spitefulness towards England. It has been resolved to abolish forced labour throughout Egypt finally and totally, to the incon- ceivable relief of the fellaheen. The total cost of this great reform will be £200,000 a year, which will be entirely met by the savings due to the conversion of the Debt, if France will only consent to that measure. France, however, has refused her consent, because such a conversion would reveal too clearly the rise of Egyptian credit under British direction ; and though she is to be asked again, will, of course, in her present sore temper, renew her refusal. It has, therefore, been agreed that in this event the peasantry shall be set free ; but a tax shall be placed on them equal to an annual payment of 7d. an acre. They will pay it willingly for the relief, but it is discreditable that a Power like France, which does not govern Egypt or protect it, but only covets it, should be enabled to inflict such a fine upon a population with which she has no direct concern.
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