[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]
Sia,—Your correspondent, " Fairplay," need surely not be over-anxious as to the welfare of the Riffs. They arc in no sense humane, and this has been shown on several occasions lately—viz., the execution of the men who fought and killed the French airmen who would not surrender when Abd-cl Krim desired them to be taken alive ; the execution of the Foreign Minister who was blown from a gun, &e. I fear that men's eyes being put out for slight reason is no uncommon occurrence. Has " Fairplay " any knowledge of a terrible novel, entitled Thamirla, by F. Duchene (Grand Prix de l'Algerie) ? It was written with a distinct object—that of bringing to light the appalling condition of women under Kabyle rule and law. The author entreats reform, and appeals to French officials to do something. I am aware that the Riffs and Kabyles are not the same as regards nationality, but it is a distinction without a difference. Reform the Riffs by all means.; but Red Cross aid for them is an absurdity.—I am,
Sir, &c., V. E. M. F. F. [In other words, .the savagery of savages relieves civilized men of the duty of behaving as civilized men !—En. Spectator.]
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