25 MAY 1867, Page 15

AMONG THE CRETAN INSURGENTS.

[To THE EDITOR OF THE " SPECTATOR:] Sut,—As it happens that I find myself among these brave islanders at the crisis of their struggle for freedom, I feel bound to bear witness to their gallant demeanour. Whether they may be able to repulse Omar Pasha, or whether his powerful army will crush all opposition, the Cretans have met the storm like men. Thus far I have seen no sign of wavering. From the members of the Provisional Government to the humblest village captains, the only question seems to be, "How can we best resist ?" The principal anxiety is to have plenty of ammunition.

There can be no doubt but that the Cretans earnestly desire to make a free home for their children, and that they detest their Turkish rulers. But I detect very little bitterness against the Mahometan villagers, and nothing in public feeling which is incompatible with a peaceful settlement of the country under Grecian sovereignty. The people object to being governed by Pashas. They wish to see the honour of their families and the products of their fields protected by equal laws. Are they not right? Europe might do many worse things than step in and